“In So Many Words”: Defining a Post-Pandemic Future
January 27, 2021
Christopher Maher
So many things happened last year – from the Coronavirus, to economic hardship, to concerns over racial justice and inequality, to deep political divisions – that we have nearly run out of words to describe the events of 2020. “Unprecedented,” “Challenging” and “Turbulent” are just some of the adjectives we used, and over-used, to define a year tainted by uncertainty, suffering and loss.
Digital Dexterity
October 27, 2020
Joseph J. Lebel III
Businesses Embrace Technology to Thrive in the "COVID Economy"
Our lives have been changed in so many ways as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, including dramatic challenges in how we conduct business. Companies both large and small have had to adapt to new societal and economic realities. Business leaders are learning how to engage with customers who now avoid physical contact, coach and guide employees working remotely and use data to make decisions in a marketplace that is being reshaped by new forces.
Post-Pandemic Re-Start-Up
June 4, 2020
Christopher Maher
In the Post-Pandemic “Re-Start-Up” Economy, Business Must Partner For Success
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, I have been tremendously impressed by the selflessness, compassion and just plain “heart” demonstrated by my fellow human beings. From brave healthcare workers and first responders; to the essential employees who produce our food, keep grocery stores and pharmacies running, or deliver our packages; to all the individuals who have adapted to working from home, while teaching their kids and keeping their families safe – so many people have truly gone above and beyond. My appreciation extends to our terrific OceanFirst team members, who continue to deliver exceptional customer service under unprecedented conditions.
Smart Business
February 27, 2020
Joseph J. Lebel III
Smart Businesses Build a Foundation for Continued Growth and Success
The economic recovery that began in June 2009, following the Great Recession, has now lasted for 128 months, making it far and away the longest expansion in US history! The markets we serve at OceanFirst Bank, spanning metropolitan New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia, have enjoyed robust growth during this period, marked by declining unemployment and rising GDP.
Businesses That Take Action Now May See Opportunity
October 4, 2019
Christopher Maher
While recent economic signals are far from definitive, concerns regarding a possible recession continue to ripple through the U.S. financial markets and business community. Certainly, some data point to an elevated risk of recession. The Institute for Supply Management’s factory index fell to 47.8 in September, its second consecutive month below 50, and the lowest reading since June 2009, reflecting weaker demand for manufactured goods both at home and abroad.
Trained Digital Bankers Help Customers Utilize More Digital Technology
July 8, 2019
Joseph J. Lebel III
Recent studies confirm a fact that most of us know from experience: a growing number of customers now use only digital channels to conduct banking, avoiding brick-and-mortar branches, call centers, and other traditional venues. The percentage of consumers who bank via mobile phones, PCs and tablets rose sharply to 46% in 2018 from 27% only four years ago. Not surprisingly, digital usage is even higher for Millennials, with 82% of 18 to 24-year-old smartphone owners using mobile banking.[1]
Diversity and Inclusion are Everybody's Business
March 26, 2019
Christopher Maher
The news each day is filled with headlines about organizations that have failed to foster diverse and inclusive workplaces—with issues ranging from pay inequities to toxic behaviors between colleagues.
Reinventing Your Business: Talent Before Technology
February 11, 2019
Joseph J. Lebel III
Virtually every sector of the economy has faced an unprecedented wave of changes and challenges in recent years. Much attention has been focused on the impact of digital technology and its consequences: shifting customer demands, disruption of legacy business models, and the quest for new sources of growth and profitability.
Investments in New Jersey Threatened by Financial Crisis
November 14, 2018
Christopher Maher
As CEO of one of the largest financial institution headquartered in New Jersey – and the State’s fourth largest bank – I am often asked by customers, shareholders and employees whether I believe New Jersey is a good place to invest.