The first day of ALM First’s Financial Institute kicked off with an Economic Overview tailored specifically to financial institutions. After discussing recent changes including the Fed’s pivot to dovishness, Jason Haley, Managing Director of ALM First’s Investment Management Group, emphasized why the firm does not bet on rates and instead focuses on creating a disciplined investment framework with repeatable strategies for their clients. Data Haley shared showed that while rates can move up and down, they most frequently move sideways.
A liquidity panel included leaders from four financial institutions, who shared relevant details about their own liquidity management strategies, forecasting techniques and unique deposit structures. Before splitting off into Board, Fundamentals and Funds Management learning tracks, a general session addressed current trends affecting depository institutions. Attendees were challenged to consider the relevance of their institutions and discussed timely challenges in small groups, including identifying the competition and the use of artificial intelligence.