CIANJ Commerce Magazine August 2020 | Page 28

■ Cover Story Continued From Page 24 size or charter. The industry will be strongly relied upon to lift the nation out of this current recession—which is a colossal reversal of the prior recession when banks were heavily criticized. There is no better example of this than the $500 billion the banks across this country delivered to more than 400 million businesses through the PPP process. NJBankers has a long history of providing a platform to share knowledge and resources among our members and, during this crisis, has proven to be a leader to rally the industry to assist the business community, provide mortgage and consumer loan forbearance relief and stepped up funding for charitable initiatives. Although the challenges that we face from COVID‐19 are daunting, we can all take pride in being part of Lakeland Bank has a branch in Sparta, New Jersey. Getty Images/iStockphoto an association—and an industry—that is playing a vital role in supporting our employees, customers and communities in these unprecedented times. In past financial crises, people have mainly looked to government for answers. While government efforts remain essential, banks have an opportunity—and a responsibility—to provide the financial lifeline that is indispensable for recovery. I am confident that New Jersey’s banks have the capital strength, commitment to customer service and community spirit to help lead the way out of this crisis and back to economic vitality. Diane C. Walsh is Executive Vice President of Communications and Programs for the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey. When you need advice during these unprecedented times, choose experience. KBW is a leading advisor for financial institutions in the NJ/NY area. Recent Transactions Joe Moeller Managing Director [email protected] $100,000,000 $75,000,000 $115,000,000 787 7th Avenue | New York, New York 10019 | (212) 887-7777 Member SIPC, FINRA & NYSE | www.kbw.com | A subsidiary of Stifel Financial Corp. Subordinated Notes Left Bookrunning Manager June 2020 Subordinated Notes Left Bookrunning Manager June 2020 Subordinated Notes Left Bookrunning Manager May 2020