What technological aspects of the bank have garnered your primary focus?

Our current technological investments primarily target enhancing customer experiences and operational efficiencies. In today’s digital landscape, speed is crucial. Customers expect prompt responses and efficient service delivery, valuing their time significantly. We’ve shifted our focus to align with customer perspectives, striving to streamline our processes through agile technology improvements. Quick identification of opportunities to enhance both internal and external processes remains key in our technological pursuits.

Is inflation a concern for your business?

After a prolonged period of low inflation, we’re witnessing early signs of inflation impacting our construction and real estate sectors. The surge in land prices is driven by increased demand coupled with supply shortages. Building material costs have spiked, causing delays and escalating project expenses. These rising costs are creating challenges for what were once considered sound investments, potentially leading customers to reassess future project timelines amidst market volatility. This inflationary pressure isn’t isolated; it’s affecting various industries—escalating raw material prices, rising transportation costs, and labor shortages—all contributing to the uncertainty of whether these price increases will endure or prove temporary.

How is M&T leveraging the surge in business migration to South Florida?

With the substantial influx of businesses from the Northeast to South Florida, our strong presence in the Northeast positions M&T Bank as a trustworthy commercial banking partner. While our arrival in Florida might have initially been unfamiliar to many native Floridians, we perceive an excellent opportunity to establish relationships with these incoming businesses, providing them a reputable banking partner they already recognize and trust.

What is your outlook for the South Florida economy?

I hold an exceptionally optimistic view of the Florida economy. The state’s pro-business environment, coupled with ample access to capital and a high quality of life for business owners and their employees, indicates significant growth potential for the Florida market.