As financial institutions look ahead to 2026, Inland Northwest banking leaders say the industry enters the new year with cautious optimism, steady deposit growth, and persistent affordability challenges that continue to shape the behavior of members and customers.

Congratulations to the Spokane Journal of Business on 40 years of exceptional business reporting. While I’m not necessarily thrilled to admit I have worked through the evolution of the financial industry in the region for the last 40 years, it’s been exciting to be a part of and see our industry grow and evolve. Many of the areas the industry has changed in the last four decades will continue, albeit in different ways.

The Spokane region is missing out on one of the most effective and flexible economic development tools the federal government has ever created — and it’s costing us jobs, investment, and the community facilities we desperately need. 

Spokane wealth advisers agree that when it comes to investing, a diversified portfolio is essential for long-term stability as it generally outperforms and protects against inflationary erosion. It’s that confidence in long-term growth that allows them to see the potential benefits of the state investing long-term care funds into a mix of assets, including stocks and corporate and government bonds.

Idaho Central Credit Union has quietly become one of Spokane’s fastest-growing financial institutions. Just 3 1/2 years after opening its first branch in Spokane County, the Chubbuck, Idaho-based financial institution has expanded to six locations, including downtown Spokane, North Spokane, Spokane Valley, Airway Heights, Liberty Lake, and the South Hill.

As some credit unions continue to grow through mergers, acquisitions, and the opening of additional branches, smaller credit unions in Spokane are working to stay competitive and prove that expansion isn't the only path to success.

Third-quarter earnings reports released by some banks with a Spokane presence mostly show upward trends in net income due partially to raised federal interest rates and steady demand for commercial and industrial loans in the Inland Northwest.

Spokane-based Washington Trust Bank has begun a tenant improvement project that includes a new branch and an upgraded lobby at its Washington Trust Bank Tower East building, formerly the Wells Fargo Center, at 601 W. First in downtown Spokane.

Greg Hansen, the chief credit officer at Numerica Credit Union, has retired after nearly 16 years at the Spokane Valley-based financial institution.