Power Panel: Distribution Wars - Deposits, Embedded Finance & Platform Economics.

The battle for deposits is intensifying as banks navigate an increasingly fragmented financial ecosystem. With the rise of embedded finance, platform economics, and the looming reality of AI agents acting on behalf of users, traditional distribution channels are being disrupted. This power panel ay FinovateFall 2026 examines how banks can acquire, retain, and monetize customers when they may no longer control the front end of the customer relationship. Deposits remain the lifeblood of banking, and maintaining them requires every employee to prioritize deposit growth as a strategic imperative. Our expert panelists discuss the transformation underway in deposit strategies, how leading institutions are adding value to attract new customer segments, and what it takes to compete effectively in the digital space while partnering with fintechs in this challenging environment. Key topics: • Why deposits must be a priority for every bank employee • The transformation in how banks maintain and grow deposits • Strategies smart players are using to add value and attract new profitable niche segments • Effective marketing and advertising approaches focused on customer needs • Competing for deposits in the digital space and learning from successful examples • Partnering with fintechs to drive deposit growth • Preparing for a future where AI agents act on behalf of users • Navigating platform economics and embedded finance • Retaining customers in a fragmented ecosystem Speakers: • Stacey Bryant, Co-Host What's Going On In Banking Podcast & Director of Client Development, Cornerstone Advisors (Moderator) • TX Zhuo, Founder and General Partner, Fika • Patricia Montesi, EVP, Qolo • Mary Miklethun, SVP, Product Lead for Business Deposits and Lending, U.S Bank • Darius Wise, President & CEO, Red Rocks Credit Union #finovate #financialservices #bankingtransformation