Monday's Afternoon Update

What you need to know about Florida today

| 7/2/2018

Florida banks are robust but there are fewer of them

The roster of Florida banks continues to shrink, as many executive and stockholders decide to sell out. Smaller community banks, in particular, are squeezed by regulatory overhead, increased competition from larger rivals, and depressed levels of net interest margins that hinder profits. Ben Bishop Jr., president at investment bank Allen C. Ewing & Co. in Jacksonville, said, “Florida had over 350 banks prior to the recession, but over 200 of these banks have gone out of business subsequently." More from the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.

2018 is deadly year for Florida lightning strikes

2018 is quickly becoming one of the deadliest years in Florida history when it comes to lightning strikes. Five people have already been killed in the state by lightning this year, a number that matches the annual average. More from WPLG.

Do you care about Bitcoin? You may want to pay attention to Florida’s CFO race.

Cryptocurrencies, decentralized online currencies that derive their value from public confidence and their ability to be exchanged quickly, transparently and securely, form an industry worth hundreds of billions of dollars. Florida-based companies have created several coins in recent years. More from the Tampa Bay Times.

Could immigration officials show up at Florida's hurricane shelters?

With hurricane season in full swing, staff at Florida's evacuation shelters are busy making preparations like what to do for specials needs evacuees and where to send victims of domestic violence. But this year they're practicing for a new challenge - what to do if immigration officials want to take a look around. More from WFLA.

Small Business Advice
Smart employers recognize the benefits of a multigenerational workforce

A good way to get young and older employees on the same page is to develop multigenerational teams. When you blend varying ideas and viewpoints, often the end result is quite innovative. Read the full column by SCORE mentor Gray Poehler.

Florida Small Business
The Game Plan

Plan It: 7 steps to setting up your business -- Structure • Name • Location • Permits and Licenses • Labor Law • Taxes • Business Plan • Online Businesses

» More from Florida Small Business.

Out of the Box
Museum of Ice Cream to sell ice cream at Target

The Museum of Ice Cream in Miami Beach may be closed, but you can still get a taste of it. As part of a partnership with Target, the museum will be selling seven flavors of ice cream at the chain’s stores starting July 8.