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Signal-Based Orientation for 2026
This playbook focuses on identifying the signals and patterns most likely to shape the community banking environment in 2026—without relying on forecasts or single-issue trend lists. It helps leaders orient to what may matter most before decisions are made.
Compound Pressure, Not Isolated Trends
Rather than examining trends in isolation, the outlook explores how multiple pressures—margin normalization, talent strain, regulatory expectations, technology gaps—are increasingly intersecting. This lens supports more realistic strategic and risk conversations.
Designed for Executive & Board Use
The playbook is written for senior leaders and boards, with language and framing suited to planning discussions, retreats, and governance conversations. It is intended to be referenced throughout the year, not read once and set aside.
About the Playbook
The 2026 Community Banking Outlook was developed to support leaders responsible for long-range stewardship in an increasingly complex operating environment. Rather than offering predictions or trend lists, this playbook provides a structured way to think about the forces shaping the next planning cycle—and how those forces may intersect with strategy, governance, talent, and execution capacity. It is designed for leaders who value clarity over certainty, and context over urgency. This playbook does not attempt to answer every question about 2026. Instead, it helps leadership teams orient their thinking, align around shared signals, and approach planning conversations with greater discernment. Used well, it becomes a reference point throughout the year—not a one-time read.
How Leaders Use the 2026 Community Banking Outlook
This outlook is designed to support real planning conversations—not passive reading. Bank leaders typically use it to: • Frame executive and board discussions ahead of the planning cycle • Pressure-test assumptions embedded in strategic plans • Identify where external pressures may intersect with internal capacity • Align leadership teams around shared context before decisions are made Many organizations reference this outlook during: • Strategic planning sessions • Board retreats • Budget and growth discussions • Leadership and succession conversations This is a working document, not a trend summary.
What Makes This Outlook Different
The 2026 Community Banking Outlook was developed for leaders who want clarity—not predictions. Unlike many industry outlooks, this resource: • Focuses on signals and patterns, not forecasts • Examines compound pressures, not isolated trends • Avoids hype, urgency, and certainty claims • Is written for executives and boards, not marketing audiences The goal is not to tell banks what will happen in 2026—but to help leaders orient their thinking to what may matter most.
This Outlook Is Best Suited For
✔ CEOs, Presidents, and executive teams ✔ Boards seeking planning context ✔ Banks navigating growth, transition, or increased complexity
This Outlook Is Not Designed For
• Tactical how-to implementation • Compliance checklists • Short-term market predictions It is intended for leaders responsible for long-range stewardship.
Meet the CEO & Founder
Loren Prairie is the founder and CEO of PCI Performance Management and a trusted advisor to community banks for over 25 years. Drawing from extensive operational and leadership experience, he supports executives in navigating risk, strengthening teams, and preparing their organizations for the future of banking.
Unlock Your Community Banking Future
Download your free playbook now to gain strategic insights and actionable recommendations for sustainable growth in 2026 and beyond.
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