Digital Banking Podcast 112: Why Community FIs Must Rethink Customer Retention with Har Rai Khalsa

In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar is joined by Har Rai Khalsa, CEO and Co-Founder of Swaystack, to explore the evolving landscape of customer acquisition and retention in community financial institutions. Har Rai shares his unique journey, from his upbringing rooted in community values to his entrepreneurial career focused on enhancing the financial ecosystem. Together, they dive into what it takes for credit unions and community banks to compete with fintechs and mega banks in delivering seamless, user-friendly digital experiences.

Har Rai emphasizes the importance of defining “financial primacy” and aligning product strategies to meet customer expectations. He discusses how digital tools, when designed with the customer in mind, can transform onboarding and deepen engagement. From leveraging data for personalized insights to reducing friction in digital interactions, Har Rai highlights actionable strategies that financial institutions can adopt to stay relevant.

The conversation also touches on the role of innovation in bridging the gap between fintechs and community financial institutions. Har Rai shares examples of how intuitive product design and thoughtful customer engagement can foster trust and long-term relationships. This episode is a must-listen for industry professionals looking to navigate the complexities of modern digital banking.