Vol. 8
The only newsletter designed for banking execs who actually have to deliver
Ever feel like leading a core transformation is part strategy, part survival sport? If you’re juggling legacy systems, stakeholder demands, and the pressure to modernize without blowing things up—this issue’s for you.
Here’s what we’re digging into this week:
- The OptimizeCore® series — a new toolkit to unlock performance from the platform you already have
- Strategic alignment that moves transformation from theory to traction
- Composable, cloud-native platforms that scale without starting from scratch
- AI-powered upgrades (like 10x Banking) driving smarter operations
- Real-world plays from BrightStar CU, SBS, and Standard Chartered
- Career opportunities if you’re ready to make your next move
Grab a coffee, take a breath, and let’s get into the wins, lessons, and next steps shaping core banking’s future.
Are you ready to stop spinning your wheels—and start building your flywheel? |
Coming Soon!
The OptimizeCore® Series
We’ve spent the last year helping banks optimize their core systems—not just replace them. And now we’re putting those insights into action.
Starting next week, we’re rolling out a new OptimizeCore® article series focused on how banks can improve performance, reduce complexity, and unlock real value from their current platforms.
We’ll cover:
- Where banks waste the most time and money in transformation
- How to fix inefficiencies without ripping and replacing everything
- What separates a stable system from a scalable one
- Why the right people and processes matter more than the newest tech
We’re also launching the OptimizeCore® Scorecard—a self-assessment tool to help you benchmark your bank’s optimization potential across key areas like system performance, process automation, risk controls, and future scalability.
If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re sitting on untapped value, this is for you.
Stay tuned—first article drops next week.
Core Banking Strater Guide
Looking to make sense of core banking transformation?
The Core Banking Starter Guide is your first step toward clarity. Designed for banking executives, transformation leaders, and project teams, this guide cuts through the complexity and focuses on what actually matters when navigating a core system journey. Inside, you’ll find clear frameworks, critical questions, and practical insights—without the jargon or vendor spin. Whether you’re optimizing your existing platform, planning a system replacement, or simply exploring what transformation could mean for your institution, this guide gives you the foundation to think strategically and act confidently.
If you find value here, pass it along.
Share the Starter Guide with colleagues, peers, and industry partners who could use a clear, no-nonsense roadmap for tackling core banking challenges.
The right first step can change everything. Start strong.
Stakeholder and Strategic Alignment
Readiness Tips Recap

Missed a day? Catch all 10 bite-size tips on stakeholder & strategic alignment in one handy visual. From gauging readiness to steering compliance and risk, these quick wins help your team stay focused and move transformation forward—print it, share it, and start applying today.
Core Banking News
What’s Happening in Core Banking This Week?
This week, core banking is gaining serious momentum. From real-time system upgrades to cloud-native overhauls, banks are rapidly moving legacy systems into the rearview mirror. Notable shifts include BrightStar Credit Unionreplacing its core with Jack Henry’s API-first platform, 10x Banking rolling out AI-driven product enhancements, and Standard Chartered partnering with Temenos while spinning off its own FX engine as a reusable banking module.
Smaller players are making bold moves too: Leeds Building Society is piloting digital savings with Mambu, MBT Bankis outsourcing its core to Jack Henry, and SBS is scaling core infrastructure across African microfinance networks. Whether they’re cautiously testing or diving deep, one thing’s clear—the future is composable, cloud-based, and customer-focused.
10x Banking Adds Generative AI to Core Platform
10x Banking has upgraded its cloud-native core platform with generative AI tools, enabling real-time insights, automated product configuration, and reduced manual work. The enhancements position 10x as a competitive alternative to legacy cores by fusing scalable processing with intelligent automation.
Hanover Bancorp Completes Core System Migration
Hanover Bancorp completed a core system migration, a strategic move aligned with its margin expansion and digital transformation goals. The bank expects the new platform to cut operational costs and accelerate digital feature delivery.
Hanover Bancorp Completes Core System Migration
BrightStar Credit Union has selected Jack Henry’s Symitar Episys to replace its legacy core system. The upgrade will bring real-time processing and open API integration, with a go-live date set for 2025.
BrightStar Credit Union in Core Banking Upgrade with Jack Henry
BrightStar Credit Union has selected Jack Henry’s Symitar Episys to replace its legacy core system. The upgrade will bring real-time processing and open API integration, with a go-live date set for 2025.
Standard Chartered Joins Temenos Partner Programme
Standard Chartered will co-develop implementation accelerators and reference models for Temenos Banking Cloud. This partnership aims to streamline core migration projects for banks adopting Temenos solutions.
SBS Expands Core Banking Tech Across East Africa
SBS is deploying its Temenos-based core platform to five partner microfinance institutions across East Africa. The cloud-first approach enables real-time processing and mobile access, scaling financial services cost-effectively.
Ready for More?
Dive into the highlights to see how leaders in the banking space are tackling innovation, efficiency, and scalability head-on. Let these stories inspire your own transformation journey.
Click here to read the full articles!
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