Finance

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By Brian Hartz
December 16, 2021

Strong roots: Credit union exec overcomes steep obstacles

Rocio Smith, Achieva Credit Union’s new market vice president, started her working life as a migrant farmworker. That memory is motivation — and lessons for other executives.

Finance

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By Brian Hartz
December 16, 2021

Home base: With focus on local lending, community bank raises its profile

With consolidation continuing to roil Florida’s banking sector, St. Petersburg, Florida-based First Home Bank stays true to its core values — while making aggressive moves to grow and expand.

Finance

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By Amanda Postma
December 16, 2021

Bill designed to make it easier for startups to secure funding is a hot topic among state officials

A top Florida official has spent months pounding away at a crucial issue for entrepreneurs: fixing how the state oversees funding startups.

Finance

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By Beth Luberecki
October 29, 2021

Mother-son team build solid financial services niche

With a model of transparent client communication, early and often, Roxane Kronon Galati and Jeff Galati landed on a winning formula.

Finance

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By Mark Gordon
October 14, 2021

Forensic accountant helps save iconic steakhouse brand

In a long and distinguished career, Jerry McHale had never worked on a case like the Palm Restaurant.

Finance

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By Business Observer Staff
September 27, 2021

Commercial loan portfolios across the region decline

While business loans fell, a few banks in the region posted increases in real estate loans.

Finance

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By Mark Gordon
September 16, 2021

Pair of startup banks in region raise $65 million to attack market

The market for new banks in Florida and nationwide is exceedingly dry. A pair of ambitious bankers hope to make it rain with some new entries.

Finance

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By Louis Llovio
June 17, 2021

Taking the cryptic out of cryptocurrency: Embracing digital money

The economy is increasingly becoming more digitized — and cryptocurrency leads the charge. For the businesses and entrepreneurs first in line, there could be some rich rewards.

Finance

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By Mark Gordon
June 17, 2021

Mother-son duo conquer Wall Street trend — from Sarasota

Betsy Cohen and her son Daniel, despite living 1,200 miles from Wall Street, are SPAC leaders.

Finance

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By Mark Gordon
April 16, 2021

Bankers seek to get foothold in medical marijuana industry

Most Florida banks avoid cannabis and related companies — given the obstacles and legal uncertainty. Others see opportunity in the mushrooming industry.

Finance

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By Mark Gordon
April 15, 2021

Community bank makes its first-ever acqusition

In keeping lesser qualified suitors at bay, Hillsboro Bank finds the just-right merger partner next door.

Finance

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By Beth Luberecki
April 15, 2021

Want to get to a yes? Say no first, says one banking executive

Being upfront with customers helps build good relationships, says a longtime Florida banking executive. Picking up trash helps build even better relationships with employees.