DBA Digest for April 17, 2026

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Through the DBA Lens

Unlocking the Future with

Keys to Financial Success

Greg Koseluk

SVP, Marketing & Public Relations

With the passage of House Bill 203, every student entering ninth grade in 2026–27 and beyond will take a financial literacy course. That’s not just good policy—it’s a recognition that balancing a budget may be as important as balancing a sentence. And thankfully, Delaware isn’t starting from scratch.

For decades, the University of Delaware Center for Economic Education and Entrepreneurship has been quietly doing the work, equipping teachers and classrooms through its “Keys to Financial Success” program. Think of it as the long-running pilot that just got picked up for a statewide release.

The Delaware Bankers Association has played its part too. Since 2002, it has awarded scholarships to students in the program—proof that learning about money can, in fact, lead to some. In 2019, the scholarship was renamed to honor former DBA President David G. Bakerian a longtime leader in Delaware banking whose legacy continues to open doors for the next generation.

Now comes the opportunity: as financial literacy becomes universal, so too can support for the David G. Bakerian Scholarship. Delaware’s banks have a chance to invest not just in students, but in a future customer base that understands saving, borrowing, and planning—music to any banker’s ears. Teaching students about the keys to financial success is important. Helping a few of them unlock the next door? Even better. Reach out to me, greg.koseluk@debankers.com, to learn how you can contribute. And be sure to be there at the DBA Annual Dinner, May 14, to congratulate this year's scholarship winners!

Chorus Opposing Cash-Only Tipping Bill Grows as Legislators Return to Dover

As Delaware lawmakers return to legislative session in Dover, significant opposition to HB315, a new bill that could force cash-only tipping in Delaware and devastate tipped workers, continues to grow.

Over the weekend, John Bratsakis, President and CEO of the Delaware Credit Union Association, published a piece in the Delaware News Journal entitled “New tipping law hurts the Delaware workers it aims to help”. 

Former U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA) also published an op-ed in The Philadelphia Inquirer entitled “Getting rid of merchant ‘swipe fees’ would punish consumers,” explaining how HB315 and similar legislation in Pennsylvania could hurt tipped workers, consumers, small businesses, and more.

Note: please see the call to action on HB315 in the item below.

Delaware Bankers Call or Email 
Your State Representative!

Say "No" to HB 315

The Delaware Legislature is considering HB 315, a proposal that would change how credit and debit card transactions are processed and could reduce tips for servers, rideshare drivers, and other tipped workers. By removing interchange fees from the tip portion, the bill risks creating confusion and disruption for businesses, workers, and consumers.

Interchange supports more than just transaction processing. It helps fund fraud prevention, cybersecurity, and the infrastructure that keeps electronic payments secure and widely available. When policy starts carving up how transactions are priced, it can weaken the system that supports those protections.


There’s also a broader concern about precedent. Once the state begins directing how private payment networks structure pricing, it opens the door to further intervention in a competitive market. Many have long supported allowing these systems to operate with clear rules, without burdensome direction.

Businesses choose card payments for convenience and higher sales, but this untested approach—rejected by 26 states in 2025—could undermine that system. Delaware can’t afford the chaos, and workers and consumers shouldn’t bear the cost. Call or email your state representative today! Take action today via the link below.

Urge Your Lawmakers to Co-Sponsor the SCAM Act

Senators Gallego and Moreno and Representatives Meuser and Correa recently introduced the Safeguarding Consumers from Advertising Misconduct (SCAM) Act (S.3774/H.R.7548) to combat fraudulent advertising on social media.

The bill would require platforms to verify advertisers, detect and remove fake ads, and investigate fraud. It also clarifies legal protections while holding companies accountable if they profit from deceptive advertising.

Stop scams by supporting S.3774 and H.R.7548: Urge your lawmakers to cosponsor the SCAM Act.

Ask the Senate to Protect Lending in Local Communities by Closing the Payment of Interest Loophole

In July, President Trump signed the GENIUS Act to regulate payment stablecoins and protect consumers, including a ban on issuers offering interest. However, a loophole allows non-issuers to offer rewards, creating confusion and risk for consumers while potentially draining deposits from community banks and limiting local lending. Lawmakers should close this loophole to ensure stablecoins remain a safe payment tool and to protect lending in communities.

Industry analyst KlarVis issued a timely report earlier this month analyzing existing crypto holdings of community bank deposit customers, to show the potential impact on deposit outflows specifically for community banks. Check out the summary here.

Ask your Senators to close the interest loophole to protect lending in local communities.

Hispanic/Latin Bankers Unidos 
Resource Group Launch - April 23, 3 p.m.

ABA is launching a new Hispanic/Latin Bankers Unidos Resource Group, designed to foster peer connection, leadership development, and visibility and professional development for bankers across the industry. This group is open to all ABA members.

 

The DBA's own Karyn Polak is an Executive Sponsor for the group, acting to help increase the group’s visibility, open doors and build connections, and share information about its successes. 

During the launch, you will hear from Group Co-Chairs Jossie Arroyo, Senior Vice President & Financial Advisor, Pinnacle Financial Partners and Eliseo Cruz-Garcia, AVP, Community Development Officer, First Federal Lakewood. They will provide an overview of the group’s mission, vision, and goals. You will also hear from guest speaker Eva Ogden, Senior Vice President & Regional Associate Engagement Advisor at Pinnacle Financial Partners, about her journey with resilience. 

We would be delighted to have you join us for the launch event on April 23 at 3:00pm ET. You are welcome to share the event with other ABA member banks.

Women Connect

April 24, Wilmington

Save the date for the next Women Connect on April 24, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Blackwall Barn & Lodge Wilmington. Our program, “You Are the Plan: Prioritizing Self-Care in Financial Planning and Life Management,” will bring together professionals for a morning of insight, connection, and practical strategies. Sponsorships are available for this impactful event—an excellent opportunity to showcase your organization’s commitment to empowering women while gaining meaningful visibility.

Thank you to our sponsors: Brown Brothers Harriman Trust Company of Delaware, N.A.; The Bryn Mawr Trust Company of Delaware; First Citizens Trust Company of Delaware; AKA Advisory, LLC; Pinion; and the Delaware Community Foundation.

April 24, Blackwall Barn & Lodge, Wilmington

Get Ready for Teach Children to Save Day with
the Instructional Video and Lesson Plan

You volunteered for this year's Teach Children to Save Day, but now you're wondering: "How do I teach a class to a room full of inquisitive 4th graders?" Not to worry! The 2026 Teach Children to Save Day instructional video and lesson plan is now available. Teaching Pro Judy Austin, from the University of Delaware's Center for Economic Education and Entrepreneurship, provides step-by-step instruction and helpful tips to make this year's lesson fun and memorable for the students and you, too! Access the video and lesson plan via the link below.

This year’s lesson is taken from the new comic book The Magic Savings Tool Kit, featuring The Great Investo and his friends Penny and Saveroo.  Each student will receive their own copy of the comic book. The book was created specifically for the 2026 Teach Children to Save Day event and was made possible with the support of Barclays, Wells Fargo, WSFS, TD Bank, Artisans' Bank, Bank of America, Fulton Bank, M&T Bank, Sallie Mae, Smarty Pig, Comenity Bank, County Bank, First Citizens Community Bank, Shore United Bank, and Taylor Bank.

DBA Annual Dinner
May 14, DuPont Country Club

The Delaware Bankers Association will host its 131st Annual Meeting and Dinner on May 14, at the DuPont Country Club. This year’s keynote speaker, Brooke Ybarra, serves as Senior Vice President of Innovation & Strategy at the American Bankers Association, where she leads the Office of Innovation. Her insights on the future of banking and emerging trends promise to be a highlight of the evening.

Sponsorship opportunities are now available. Join these prestigious sponsors: The Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh; Young Conaway; Richards Layton & Finger; McCollom D'Emilio Smith Uebler; Santora CPA Group; Troutman Pepper Locke; Delaware Community Foundation; Potter Anderson Corroon; Pinion; Weiner Benefits Group; and Belfint Lyons Shuman.

Bank Table Sponsorships are also available. Join: Barclays; Capital One; First Citizens Community Bank; PNC Bank; Sallie Mae; and WSFS Bank.

May 14, DuPont Country Club, Wilmington

Shore United Bank Welcomes Bill Turner as Vice President, Relationship Manager

Shore United Bank is pleased to announce that Bill Turner has joined the organization as Vice President, Commercial Relationship Manager, effective April 15, 2026.

In this role, Turner will work closely with local businesses to build lasting relationships and support their growth. By understanding each customer’s financial needs and guiding them through lending options that support long-term success, he will help businesses grow and in turn strengthen our local economy. Turner brings more than three decades of experience in banking and financial services, with a strong background in lending and executive leadership. 

Most recently, Turner served as Chief Lending Officer and Executive Vice President at Farmers Bank of Willards, where he was directly responsible for the oversight and operation of the Bank’s lending portfolio. Turner is a Certified Public Accountant with strong financial and operational acumen. He is widely known and respected throughout the local banking communities on the lower shore of Maryland and Sussex County, DE.

“We are very pleased to welcome Bill to Shore United Bank,” said Tom Mears, President, Coastal Region. “Bill is widely respected throughout the region for his integrity, financial expertise, and commitment to community banking. His relationship‑driven approach aligns perfectly with our mission to serve businesses and strengthen the communities we call home.”

The Collaborative for Climate and Jobs: A Partnership with the University of Delaware

Former Delaware senator Tom Carper announced the creation of the Collaborative for Climate and Jobs. The partnership, an initiative within the Delaware Environmental Institute (DENIN) at UD, brings together researchers, business leaders, labor leaders, policymakers and community voices to develop practical solutions to our environmental, energy and workforce challenges.

The DCF will play a role in helping the senator raise money for the Collaborative for Climate and Jobs through the Carper Fund for Climate and Jobs. “With the Delaware Community Foundation as a partner, I’m hopeful that this new initiative at UD, with the help of other engaged citizens, will make a real difference in the First State and beyond for years to come.” said Senator Tom Carper.

Stuart Comstock-Gay, CEO of the Delaware Community Foundation, added that, “the DCF is thrilled to be partnering with Senator Carper and the University of Delaware. The Senator’s lifetime of service, and commitment to these issues, resonates deeply with us. And the University is a great place to keep this work going.”

US Trust Planning for Private Equity: Carried Interest, Tax Efficiency and Legacy

Transferring carried interest to a trust at the early stages of a fund is ideal because the interest typically has a low initial value. This allows an individual to gift the interest only utilizing a small portion of their gift and estate exemption ($15m per individual in 2026), with the potential of the value of the asset appreciating greatly as the fund matures. However, these transfers come with a number of pitfalls, particularly relating to IRC Section 2701, which can make planning difficult. The “Vertical Slice Rule” provides a safe harbor under IRC Section 2701 but requires that any transfer of carried interest must include a proportional share of the general partner’s (GP) capital interest. For example, if a GP holds a 10% carried interest and a 1% capital interest, transferring 50% of the carry requires the GP to transfer 50% of the capital interest as well. Accurately valuing these transfers can be complex and should be carried out by a qualified appraiser. These transfers are typically made into dynasty trusts as legacy planning vehicles for a spouse and/ or current and future generations.

Delaware FinTech Innovation Forum
April 17, STAR Campus, Newark

The Philadelphia Fed is partnering with the University of Delaware to organize the Delaware FinTech Innovation Forum, which will be held at the university’s FinTech Innovation Hub, STAR Campus, Newark, on Friday, April 17, 2026. The conference aims to provide a forum for bankers and others in the Delaware business community to discuss fintech innovations and the implications for our supervised institutions and local small businesses. This event builds on the Philadelphia Fed’s long-standing commitment to conducting research and convening experts to advance key dialogue on the evolving fintech landscape and the future of payments

April 17, FinTech Innovation Hub, STAR Campus, Newark

DE250 Black Tie Event
April 18, Hotel DuPont

Join us for an unforgettable black-tie celebration marking Delaware’s role in America’s 250th anniversary at the historic Hotel Du Pont. This signature evening brings together leaders, supporters, and community members from across the First State for an immersive celebration of Delaware’s people, places, and stories. Enjoy a unique experience across three distinct rooms, each dedicated to one of Delaware’s counties—New Castle, Kent, and Sussex—featuring county-themed food, drinks, and entertainment that reflect the character and culture of each region.

April 18, 7:00 to 10:00 p.m., Hotel DuPont, Wilmington

Policy Makers with Governor Matt Meyer

April 20, Hotel DuPont

Join the New Castle County Chamber of Commerce for a discussion with Governor Matt Meyer at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, April 20, 2026, 9:00 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the Hotel DuPont in Wilmington. Tickets: Member Discount Ticket - $60.00. General Admission Ticket - $100.00.

April 20, Hotel DuPont, Wilmington

MDI Partnership Summit 
April 21-22, Washington, D.C.

The MDI (Minority Depository Institution) Partnership Summit, hosted by the American Bankers Association and the National Bankers Association, facilitates, strengthens and promotes mutually beneficial partnerships between MDIs and other banks. Come find out how you can support wealth creation and economic opportunity for all Americans. Through tactical discussions and networking opportunities, delve into best practices for forging mutually beneficial, long-term partnerships between MDIs and other banks.

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It’s free to attend. Register now and add your voice to this important topic for your bank and for your customers.

April 21-22, Washington, D.C.

STABLECOINS Free Webinar 
on Banking Exchange April 21 

Join us for an in-depth session with Nick Elledge, a leader at the forefront of the digital asset transition. As the COO of Stablecore, Nick helps regional and community financial institutions deploy institutional-grade infrastructure that bridges the gap between traditional banking cores and the blockchain. Whether your institution is already building or just beginning to map out a digital asset strategy, this webinar will provide the regulatory context and technical roadmap needed to lead in 2026.

April 21, 2:00 p.m., Online

Lerner Corporate Roundtable
April 23 and 29

Delaware’s corporate community is invited to take part in an upcoming Lerner College Corporate Roundtable. Hosted by Dean Oliver Yao, these interactive Zoom sessions will offer a snapshot of the current state—and future direction—of business education at Lerner, while opening the door for meaningful dialogue. Your insight will help shape how Lerner prepares the next generation of business leaders and supports the evolving needs of our business community.

To participate, simply reply with your preferred date, and a calendar invitation will follow.

Two sessions are available:

• Thursday, April 23 | 10–11 a.m.

• Wednesday, April 29 | 1–2 p.m.

The DANA 2026 IMPACT Delaware Conference

May 1, Clayton Hall, Newark

As DANA, the Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement, celebrates its 40th anniversary, The DANA 2026 IMPACT Delaware Conference, “IMPACT Rising: Beyond Measure,” is a must-attend event for nonprofit leaders and their teams, designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and shared growth. In an increasingly uncertain world, nonprofits must unite to overcome challenges and enhance their collective impact. This conference offers a unique opportunity for nonprofit professionals to come together, learn from one another, and explore new ways to strengthen the communities they serve. 

May 1, 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM, Clayton Hall, University of Delaware, Newark

Ask the Fed Webinar: May 5

On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. ET, staff from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Federal Reserve System, and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency will conduct an Ask the Regulators event to discuss recent proposals that would modernize and revise bank capital requirements.

During the session, the agencies will discuss the proposal to revise the standardized approach that sets the risk-based capital requirements for Category III and IV banking organizations and for banking organizations with total consolidated assets of less than $100 billion. In addition, the agencies will briefly discuss a proposal to revise the risk-based capital requirements applicable to Category I and II banking organizations and to banking organizations with significant trading activity.

During the session, the agencies will respond to questions submitted in advance from bankers. Please email questions in advance of the session via email to asktheregulators@stls.frb.org. Questions received by April 28 will receive priority.

DBT40 opens for 2026 applications

The Delaware Business Times has opened the application period for the 2026 Class of its Top 40 Under 40 program, also known as DBT40. The deadline to apply for this year’s program is 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20. The Annual DBT40 recognizes professionals who have excelled in their respective fields and are making waves throughout Delaware and beyond – all before the age of 40. These rising stars are shaping the future of Delaware’s business landscape and community.

To be eligible for our 2026 class, applicants must be under 40 as of Sept. 17. Honorees can only receive this award once. Our annual DBT40 banquet reception is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 17.

The 2026 application for Superstars in Business
is Now Open

The Superstars in Business Award honors businesses and nonprofits for their outstanding achievements and model approaches to business and management. Each year, up to 4 winners are selected to be named a Superstar in Business. To be considered, you must submit an online application that consists of questions about your business philosophy and results, what makes you stand apart from competitors, business challenges, and community involvement.

View the 2026 Superstars in Business Application, Register for the workshop, and view past winners’ videos via the link below: