United Bank of Iowa

As we close another successful year, I am pleased to present the 2025 UBI Christmas issue. I am proud to work alongside such an experienced and committed team—more than 100 of our employees have been with UBI for over 10 years. We strive to make United Bank of Iowa a great destination where employees can build lasting careers, and where our customers can depend on the consistency and quality of our service. Our goal remains the same, to provide dependable service and continuity in serving your financial needs.

In today’s banking environment, it is important that we maintain accurate and current contact information for all our customers, including your address, phone number, and email. Our staff may ask to verify these details from time to time to ensure we can reach you quickly and securely. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us keep our records up-to-date.

We occasionally receive the question, “can I still get a penny at the bank?” and the simple answer is yes! While there is discussion about the discontinued penny production, there are still plenty of pennies in circulation for the time being. For now, you can still find them at UBI.

There is growing discussion around digital, virtual and cryptocurrency, and many people find the topic confusing. In the summer of 2025, Congress passed the GENIUS Act, creating a framework for Stablecoins, a form of digital currency tied to the U.S. dollar. Stablecoins will be subject to regulations, including limits on who can issue them and requirements for maintaining reserves. Implementation regulations are being developed, and much remains to be defined in this evolving area of finance. We will continue to monitor these developments.

Congratulations to our Moorhead office on reaching their 15-year milestone. Stop in for refreshments on December 19 from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm and help them celebrate. We are proud of the strong relationships we have built in the Moorhead community and look forward to many more years of service. Construction of our Manning Office is progressing well, and we remain on track to open in February, 2026. We are excited to expand our presence and continue serving the Manning community with the high level of service our customers expect.

Finally, I would like to take a moment to recognize Marcia Cates, Vice President of Marketing, who will retire on December 31, 2025, after more than 40 years of dedicated service to United Bank of Iowa. Throughout her career, Marcia has made countless contributions to our bank, serving in a variety of roles and leading our Marketing Department since 1998. We will celebrate Marcia’s retirement with an open house in Ida Grove on December 18.

I also want to recognize several other employees who have recently retired or have plans to retire in the near future. Brenda Beneke, Personal Banker in our Pocahontas office, retired in November after over 6 years of service at UBI and nearly 40 years in banking. Deb Medema, Proof Operator II at the Ida Grove office, is planning to retire in January, logging 10 years with UBI. Dena Anderson, Customer Service Associate III at our Churdan office, will be retiring in January after serving our Churdan area customers for 14 years.

Our best wishes to Marcia, Brenda, Deb and Dena. Thank you for your dedicated service to your customers and your community. 

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!