# Nicolet Bankshares vs peers: AI and technology compared

Source: https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/nicolet/vs-peers
Last updated: Oct 19, 2026

*Part of the [Nicolet Bankshares AI strategy profile](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/nicolet). Peer group: Associated Banc-Corp, Old National Bancorp, Wintrust Financial Corporation, First Merchants Corporation, First Busey Corporation, First Financial Bancorp, Park National Corporation, Central Bancompany.*

## How does Nicolet Bankshares compare with its peers on AI and technology?

On this site's AI disclosure index Nicolet scores 1.1 (#119 of 120 US banks), last in a nine-bank Midwest group led by Old National (66), Associated (56.8) and Busey (44.9). The gap is a disclosed program. Nicolet has named no AI tool, vendor, use case, budget or leader as of October 2026, and its Q1 and Q2 2026 10-Qs do not mention artificial intelligence. Its Green Bay neighbor Associated cited 30 AI use cases in process in September 2026 and has hired a head of AI for its commercial bank. Old National has stood up an AI center of excellence, and Abrigo reports its loan reviewers became about 31% more efficient with an AI assistant. Busey's Glia virtual assistants handled 61.5% of calls as it absorbed 30,000 new customers. Nicolet's technology year went to its MidWestOne acquisition, which closed on February 13, 2026 and added about $6 billion of assets. MidWestOne was scheduled to open as Nicolet National Bank on August 10, 2026, with its online customers moving to the NCR Voyix digital banking platform Nicolet chose in March 2024. Merger-related expense fell from $40.7 million in the first quarter to $7.4 million in the second. Nicolet's 10-K, filed February 27, 2026, takes a cautious line: AI presents 'new and significant cybersecurity safety risks that must be analyzed and addressed before implementation'. ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000077/nic-20251231.htm), [Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000110/nic-20260331.htm), [Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000164/nic-20260630.htm), [Investing.com](https://investing.com/news/transcripts/associated-banccorp-at-barclays-conference-growth-margins-and-ai-93CH-4901556), [Associated Banc-Corp](https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Bank-Hires-Andy-Miner-as-senior-director-AI-for-Corporate--Commercial-Banking), [The Motley Fool (Yahoo Finance)](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/old-national-onb-q1-2026-172452001.html), [Abrigo](https://www.abrigo.com/success-stories/how-old-national-bank-increased-loan-review-efficiency-and-capacity-with-ai-powered-workflow-intelligence/), [The Financial Brand](https://thefinancialbrand.com/news/checking-accounts/build-relationships-checking-no-longer-promises-primacy-195883), [Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire)](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260421530305/en), [Nicolet National Bank](https://www.nicoletbank.com/midwestone-merger), [NCR Voyix (Business Wire)](https://businesswire.com/news/home/20240312322423/en/Nicolet-National-Bank-Partners-with-NCR-Voyix-to-Transform-Digital-Banking), [Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire, investor relations)](https://investors.nicoletbank.com/news-market-information/press-releases/news-details/2026/Nicolet-Bankshares-Inc--Announces-Second-Quarter-2026-Earnings))

## Where does Nicolet lead its peers on AI?

- **AI risk flagged in its 10-K a year before some peers.** Nicolet's 10-K filed February 25, 2025 already said AI's cybersecurity risks must be addressed before implementation and that AI could worsen fraud. First Merchants' 10-K for the same year had no AI language, and Wintrust's named AI once, inside a general technology risk factor; both added an AI risk factor only in February 2026. ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485025000008/nic-20241231.htm), [First Merchants Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/712534/000071253425000058/frme-20241231.htm), [First Merchants Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/712534/000071253426000022/frme-20251231.htm), [Wintrust Financial Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1015328/000101532825000093/wtfc-20241231.htm), [Wintrust Financial Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1015328/000101532826000007/wtfc-20251231.htm))
- **Acquired customers on one digital platform within six months.** MidWestOne closed on February 13, 2026 and was scheduled to open as Nicolet National Bank on August 10, 2026, with its online customers moving to Nicolet Bank Digital on NCR Voyix. Associated, which agreed to buy American National in December 2025, set that bank's systems conversion for October 2026. ([Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire)](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260421530305/en), [Nicolet National Bank](https://www.nicoletbank.com/midwestone-merger), [NCR Voyix (Business Wire)](https://businesswire.com/news/home/20240312322423/en/Nicolet-National-Bank-Partners-with-NCR-Voyix-to-Transform-Digital-Banking), [Banking Dive](https://www.bankingdive.com/news/associated-bank-deal-american-national-omaha-604-million-acquisition/806659/), [Associated Banc-Corp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/7789/000000778926000147/asb-20260505.htm))
- **Integration costs falling quickly.** Nicolet's merger-related expense fell from $40.7 million in Q1 2026 to $7.4 million in Q2, and the CEO said the core conversion would let the bank fully realise planned savings. Old National took until Q1 2026, about eleven months after closing Bremer, to report 100% of its $111 million of annual cost saves. ([Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire, investor relations)](https://investors.nicoletbank.com/news-market-information/press-releases/news-details/2026/Nicolet-Bankshares-Inc--Announces-Second-Quarter-2026-Earnings), [Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire via Yahoo Finance)](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/nicolet-bankshares-inc-announces-second-201500387.html), [Banking Dive](https://www.bankingdive.com/news/minnesotas-bremer-bank-to-lay-off-244-after-sale-to-old-national/759752/), [Earnings call transcript (The Motley Fool)](https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2026/04/22/old-national-onb-q1-2026-earnings-transcript/))

## Where does Nicolet trail its peers on AI?

- **No AI use case disclosed while Associated cites 30.** Nicolet's profile records no AI use case in production. Associated's CEO cited 30 AI use cases in process in September 2026, including an internal build that cost $45,000 against an $800,000 purchase option, and the bank hired a senior director of AI for commercial banking in June 2026. ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000164/nic-20260630.htm), [Investing.com](https://investing.com/news/transcripts/associated-banccorp-at-barclays-conference-growth-margins-and-ai-93CH-4901556), [Associated Banc-Corp](https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Bank-Hires-Andy-Miner-as-senior-director-AI-for-Corporate--Commercial-Banking))
- **No AI owner, unlike Busey, Associated and Old National.** Nicolet's technology runs under EVP and Chief Credit Officer Brad Hutjens, with a Chief Innovation Officer named beside the CISO, but no AI role. Busey appointed a director of AI, data science and insights in April 2026, Associated a chief data officer in February 2026, and Old National runs an AI center of excellence under its CIO. ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000086/nic-20260324.htm), [Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000077/nic-20251231.htm), [Busey Bank](https://www.busey.com/about-us/news-and-announcements/busey-announces-director-of-ai-data-science-and-insights), [Associated Bank newsroom](https://newsroom.associatedbank.com/releases/associated-bank-announces-hiring-of-alexander-bush-executive-vice-president-chief-data-officer), [Old National Bank](https://www.oldnational.com/resources/insights/how-cfos-can-drive-real-returns-from-ai-investments))
- **No AI in customer service while Busey and Old National report results.** Nicolet discloses no customer-facing AI. Busey's Glia virtual assistants handled 61.5% of calls and cut wrap-up time 50% (February 2026), and Old National's CIO says AI-powered call-center automation shortened average handling time (May 2026). ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000077/nic-20251231.htm), [The Financial Brand](https://thefinancialbrand.com/news/checking-accounts/build-relationships-checking-no-longer-promises-primacy-195883), [Old National Bank](https://www.oldnational.com/resources/insights/how-cfos-can-drive-real-returns-from-ai-investments))
- **No employee AI tools on the record.** Nicolet names no internal AI assistant. First Merchants says Microsoft Copilot has been rolled out across the organisation and AI sifts incoming mortgage applications (June 2026), and Wintrust Specialty Finance uses AI credit adjudication that helped it originate more than 4,000 deals in the first half of 2026. ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000164/nic-20260630.htm), [Louisville Business First](https://www.bizjournals.com/louisville/news/2026/06/05/executive-insights-experts-crypto-ai-business-bank.html), [Equipment Finance News (first published by sister title FinAi News)](https://equipmentfinancenews.com/news/lender-operations/ai-driving-funding-growth-via-credit-adjudication/))

## Where does Nicolet rank against its peers on AI disclosure?

Scores from the US AI disclosure index of 120 banks (0–100; 45% of the weight on independent coverage). The index measures what each bank has put on the public record and what outside outlets have reported about its AI, not capability or spending; every count is of entries on that bank's profile, each of which cites its sources.

| Bank | Score | Rank | Independent sources | Own disclosures | Use cases in production | Moves, last 12 months | Named AI platform |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Old National Bancorp](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national) | [66](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/ai-index) | #40 of 120 | [9](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national#sources) | [22](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national#sources) | [10 of 14](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national#where) | [18](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national#timeline) | Vendor-delivered automation on an acquisition-built bank ([Old National Bancorp](https://ir.oldnational.com/news/press-releases/press-release-details/2026/Old-National-Receives-2026-Trust-in-Banking-Award), [GlobeNewswire via FT Markets](https://markets.ft.com/data/announce/full?dockey=1330-9651962en-471PA5GUQ40497E71D0E3EU3B5), [Old National Bank](https://www.oldnational.com/resources/insights/four-tips-to-identify-ai-solutions-that-solve-real-business-problems/), [Old National Bank](https://www.oldnational.com/resources/insights/what-not-to-share-when-using-ai-for-personal-finance-help/)) |
| [Associated Banc-Corp](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated) | [56.8](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/ai-index) | #49 of 120 | [11](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated#sources) | [19](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated#sources) | [4 of 11](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated#where) | [17](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated#timeline) | Line-of-business AI under a chief data officer / CIO ([Associated Banc-Corp](https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Bank-Hires-Andy-Miner-as-senior-director-AI-for-Corporate--Commercial-Banking), [Banking Dive](https://www.bankingdive.com/news/associated-bank-chief-digital-officer-joins-from-bmo/826613/), [American Banker](https://digital-banking.americanbanker.com/profile/alexander-bush), [Associated Banc-Corp](https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Announces-Annual-Meeting-Results-Dividends-Stock-Repurchase-Program-and-New-Technology-Committee)) |
| [First Busey Corporation](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/busey) | [44.9](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/ai-index) | #64 of 120 | [4](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/busey#sources) | [21](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/busey#sources) | [10 of 13](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/busey#where) | [13](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/busey#timeline) | Director of AI, Data Science and Insights (from April 2026) ([Busey Bank](https://www.busey.com/about-us/news-and-announcements/busey-announces-director-of-ai-data-science-and-insights), [First Busey Corporation](https://ir.busey.com/static-files/e566cc4a-c381-404d-a3b6-e8d0a79aced4), [First Busey Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/314489/000031448926000013/buse-20251231.htm), [First Busey Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/314489/000031448926000049/buse_20260728x26q2xex992.htm), [The Financial Brand](https://thefinancialbrand.com/news/checking-accounts/build-relationships-checking-no-longer-promises-primacy-195883), [Glia (case study)](https://www.glia.com/case-study/busey-bank)) |
| [Wintrust Financial Corporation](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/wintrust) | [38.1](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/ai-index) | #76 of 120 | [8](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/wintrust#sources) | [16](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/wintrust#sources) | [7 of 9](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/wintrust#where) | [16](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/wintrust#timeline) | Not disclosed |
| [First Merchants Corporation](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-merchants) | [29.8](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/ai-index) | #88 of 120 | [3](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-merchants#sources) | [22](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-merchants#sources) | [9 of 11](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-merchants#where) | [18](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-merchants#timeline) | Not disclosed |
| [Central Bancompany](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/central-bancompany) | [24.7](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/ai-index) | #95 of 120 | [2](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/central-bancompany#sources) | [11](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/central-bancompany#sources) | [8 of 11](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/central-bancompany#where) | [13](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/central-bancompany#timeline) | In-house technology division and core modernisation programme ([Central Bancompany (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2065601/000162828026021067/cbci-20251231.htm), [Central Bank](https://www.centralbank.net/learning-center/how-ai-is-changing-the-economy/), [Central Bank](https://www.centralbank.net/learning-center/security/emerging-trends/the-rise-of-ai-enhanced-scams/), [Personetics (PR Newswire)](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/central-bank-boosts-financial-wellness-for-customers-through-personetics-ai-powered-platform-302101105.html), [Personetics](https://personetics.com/resource-center/how-personetics-and-central-bank-drive-customer-centered-banking)) |
| [Park National Corporation](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/park-national) | [6.6](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/ai-index) | #103 of 120 | [2](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/park-national#sources) | [10](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/park-national#sources) | [5 of 8](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/park-national#where) | [10](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/park-national#timeline) | Not disclosed |
| [First Financial Bancorp](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio) | [4.4](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/ai-index) | #105 of 120 | [7](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio#sources) | [24](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio#sources) | [8 of 11](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio#where) | [17](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio#timeline) | Not disclosed |
| [Nicolet Bankshares (this page)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/nicolet) | [1.1](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/ai-index) | #119 of 120 | [3](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/nicolet#sources) | [13](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/nicolet#sources) | [2 of 5](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/nicolet#where) | [15](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/nicolet#timeline) | Not disclosed |

## On which parts of the AI record is Nicolet ahead of or behind its peers?

Each row is one input of the index, counted on the profiles of Nicolet and the 8 peers that are scored on the same basis. "Place" is Nicolet's position in the group of 9 (1st = most).

| Component (weight) | Nicolet | Peer median | Most in the group | Place |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Independent sources (45%) | 3 | 5.5 | [Associated (11)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated) | 6th of 9 |
| Use cases in production (10%) | 2 | 8 | [Old National (10)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national) | 9th of 9 |
| Own primary disclosures (10%) | 13 | 20 | [First Financial Bank (24)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio) | 7th of 9 |
| Dated moves, last 12 months (10%) | 15 | 16.5 | [Old National (18)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national) | 6th of 9 |
| Disclosed numbers (5%) | 10 | 12.5 | [Old National (16)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national) | 9th of 9 |
| Named AI leaders (5%) | 3 | 7.5 | [Associated (12)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated) | 9th of 9 |
| Use cases described (5%) | 5 | 11 | [Old National (14)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national) | 9th of 9 |

## What has each bank in Nicolet's peer group disclosed about its AI?

Facts from each bank's profile, cited to the profile's own sources. "Not disclosed" means the bank's public record, as cited on its profile, does not state it.

| Bank | Platform or assistant, as the profile names it | AI leaders named | Headline AI number disclosed | Patents on the record | Open AI roles |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Nicolet Bankshares](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/nicolet) | Not disclosed | [3, incl. Mike Daniels (Chairman, President and CEO)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/nicolet#people) ([Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire via Yahoo Finance)](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/nicolet-bankshares-inc-announces-second-201500387.html), [Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire)](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260120842782/en/Nicolet-Bankshares-Inc.-Announces-Record-Earnings)) | Average full-time-equivalent employees, 2025: 959 (Dec 31, 2025) ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000077/nic-20251231.htm)) | Not disclosed | Not surveyed |
| [Associated Banc-Corp](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated) | Line-of-business AI under a chief data officer / CIO ([Associated Banc-Corp](https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Bank-Hires-Andy-Miner-as-senior-director-AI-for-Corporate--Commercial-Banking), [Banking Dive](https://www.bankingdive.com/news/associated-bank-chief-digital-officer-joins-from-bmo/826613/), [American Banker](https://digital-banking.americanbanker.com/profile/alexander-bush), [Associated Banc-Corp](https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Announces-Annual-Meeting-Results-Dividends-Stock-Repurchase-Program-and-New-Technology-Committee)) | [12, incl. Andy Harmening (President and CEO)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated#people) ([Banking Dive](https://www.bankingdive.com/news/associated-bank-ceo-harmening-private-wealth-commercial/818566/), [PR Newswire via FT Markets](https://markets.ft.com/data/announce/full?dockey=600-202607231615PR_NEWS_USPRX____CG11257-1)) | AI use cases in process: 30 (Sep 15, 2026) ([Investing.com](https://investing.com/news/transcripts/associated-banccorp-at-barclays-conference-growth-margins-and-ai-93CH-4901556)) | 1 patent listed on the profile, e.g. US 8,280,813 B2 (Debt protection for a financial overdraft account) ([Google Patents (USPTO)](https://patents.google.com/patent/US8280813B2/en)) | [2 open AI roles (Sep 24, 2026); most in AI product & strategy](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated#roles) |
| [Old National Bancorp](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national) | Vendor-delivered automation on an acquisition-built bank ([Old National Bancorp](https://ir.oldnational.com/news/press-releases/press-release-details/2026/Old-National-Receives-2026-Trust-in-Banking-Award), [GlobeNewswire via FT Markets](https://markets.ft.com/data/announce/full?dockey=1330-9651962en-471PA5GUQ40497E71D0E3EU3B5), [Old National Bank](https://www.oldnational.com/resources/insights/four-tips-to-identify-ai-solutions-that-solve-real-business-problems/), [Old National Bank](https://www.oldnational.com/resources/insights/what-not-to-share-when-using-ai-for-personal-finance-help/)) | [12, incl. Jim Ryan (Chairman and CEO)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national#people) ([Old National Bancorp](https://ir.oldnational.com/news/press-releases/press-release-details/2026/Old-National-Bancorp-Reports-Record-Second-Quarter-2026-Results-Announces-Enhanced-Executive-Leadership-Structure), [American Banker](https://americanbanker.com/news/acquisitive-old-national-eyes-growth-in-midwest-southeast)) | Legacy Power BI code clean-up with AI: ≈ 1 week vs ≈ 1 month for top programmers (Apr 22, 2026) ([The Motley Fool (Yahoo Finance)](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/old-national-onb-q1-2026-172452001.html)) | None found (the profile's patent search) ([Google Patents (USPTO)](https://patents.google.com/?assignee=%22Old+National+Bancorp%22), [Google Patents (USPTO)](https://patents.google.com/?assignee=%22Old+National+Bank%22)) | [1 open AI roles (Oct 1, 2026); most in AI product & strategy](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national#roles) |
| [Wintrust Financial Corporation](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/wintrust) | Not disclosed | [10, incl. Tim Crane (President and Chief Executive Officer)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/wintrust#people) ([Investing.com (Raymond James Institutional Investors Conference, 3 March 2026)](https://www.investing.com/news/transcripts/wintrust-at-raymond-james-conference-strategic-growth-and-service-93CH-4538546), [Yahoo Finance (Quartr)](https://finance.yahoo.com/quote/WTFC/earnings/WTFC-Q2-2026-earnings_call-652204.html), [Wintrust Financial Corporation (GlobeNewswire)](https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/10/02/3160702/11955/en/wintrust-financial-corporation-appoints-two-members-to-board-of-directors.html)) | Wintrust Specialty Finance originations, first half 2026 (with AI credit adjudication): More than 4,000 deals, roughly $500 million; team of 34 (Jun 30, 2026) ([Equipment Finance News (first published by sister title FinAi News)](https://equipmentfinancenews.com/news/lender-operations/ai-driving-funding-growth-via-credit-adjudication/)) | Not disclosed | [1 open AI roles (Oct 5, 2026); most in responsible AI & governance](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/wintrust#roles) |
| [First Merchants Corporation](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-merchants) | Not disclosed | [7, incl. Mark K. Hardwick (President and CEO)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-merchants#people) ([First Merchants Corporation (GlobeNewswire via Yahoo Finance)](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/first-merchants-corporation-announces-second-200500052.html), [First Merchants Bank](https://firstmerchants.com/why-us/news/2026/06/04/first-merchants-bank-recognized-on-forbes--world-s-best-banks-2026), [First Merchants Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/712534/000071253426000067/frme-20261001.htm)) | Digital platform conversion cost (non-core, 2024): $2.4 million (Dec 31, 2024) ([First Merchants Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/712534/000071253426000022/frme-20251231.htm)) | Not disclosed | Not surveyed |
| [First Busey Corporation](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/busey) | Director of AI, Data Science and Insights (from April 2026) ([Busey Bank](https://www.busey.com/about-us/news-and-announcements/busey-announces-director-of-ai-data-science-and-insights), [First Busey Corporation](https://ir.busey.com/static-files/e566cc4a-c381-404d-a3b6-e8d0a79aced4), [First Busey Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/314489/000031448926000013/buse-20251231.htm), [First Busey Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/314489/000031448926000049/buse_20260728x26q2xex992.htm), [The Financial Brand](https://thefinancialbrand.com/news/checking-accounts/build-relationships-checking-no-longer-promises-primacy-195883), [Glia (case study)](https://www.glia.com/case-study/busey-bank)) | [8, incl. Van A. Dukeman (Chairman, President and CEO)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/busey#people) ([First Busey Corporation (GlobeNewswire)](https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2026/07/28/3334801/10701/en/First-Busey-Corporation-Announces-2026-Second-Quarter-Earnings.html), [First Busey Corporation (GlobeNewswire)](https://ir.busey.com/news-releases/news-release-details/busey-dukeman-agree-contract-extension/)) | Not disclosed | Not disclosed | Not surveyed |
| [First Financial Bancorp](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio) | Not disclosed | [7, incl. Archie Brown (Chief Executive Officer)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio#people) ([American Banker](https://www.americanbanker.com/news/cincinnatis-first-financial-strikes-third-deal-in-13-months), [First Financial Bancorp (PR Newswire via Yahoo Finance)](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/first-financial-bancorp-announces-second-203000197.html), [First Financial Bancorp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/708955/000070895526000155/ffbc-20260914.htm)) | AI references in the 10-K, FY2023 / FY2024 / FY2025: none / 1 passage / about 25 (Feb 19, 2026) ([First Financial Bancorp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/708955/000070895524000018/ffbc-20231231.htm), [First Financial Bancorp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/708955/000070895525000012/ffbc-20241231.htm), [First Financial Bancorp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/708955/000070895526000028/ffbc-20251231.htm)) | Not disclosed | [0 open AI roles (Sep 24, 2026)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio#roles) |
| [Park National Corporation](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/park-national) | Not disclosed | [6, incl. Matthew R. Miller (President and Chief Executive Officer)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/park-national#people) ([Park National Corporation (SEC filing, ARS)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/805676/000080567626000023/a2025annualreport_finalx.htm), [Park National Corporation (GlobeNewswire)](https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/07/29/3123162/4491/en/Park-National-Corporation-names-Matthew-R-Miller-Chief-Executive-Officer-David-L-Trautman-to-continue-as-Board-Chair.html)) | Virtual voice assistant self-service growth: 132% in 2025 (Dec 31, 2025) ([Park National Corporation (SEC filing, ARS)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/805676/000080567626000023/a2025annualreport_finalx.htm)) | Not disclosed | Not surveyed |
| [Central Bancompany](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/central-bancompany) | In-house technology division and core modernisation programme ([Central Bancompany (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2065601/000162828026021067/cbci-20251231.htm), [Central Bank](https://www.centralbank.net/learning-center/how-ai-is-changing-the-economy/), [Central Bank](https://www.centralbank.net/learning-center/security/emerging-trends/the-rise-of-ai-enhanced-scams/), [Personetics (PR Newswire)](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/central-bank-boosts-financial-wellness-for-customers-through-personetics-ai-powered-platform-302101105.html), [Personetics](https://personetics.com/resource-center/how-personetics-and-central-bank-drive-customer-centered-banking)) | [6, incl. John 'JR' Ross (President and CEO)](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/central-bancompany#people) ([Central Bancompany (GlobeNewswire)](https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2026/08/04/3338232/0/en/central-bancompany-inc-reports-second-quarter-2026-results-declares-regular-0-12-dividend-and-authorizes-100-million-share-repurchase.html)) | Personetics insights: digital engagement / click-through (vendor-reported): 29% / 22.9%; 32.5 million insights delivered; bank NPS 70.6 (Apr 16, 2026) ([Personetics](https://personetics.com/resource-center/how-personetics-and-central-bank-drive-customer-centered-banking)) | Not disclosed | Not surveyed |

## What are the latest dated moves on the AI record of Nicolet and its peers?

The two newest dated entries of each bank since Oct 16, 2025, from the timelines of the profiles (which also log filings, results and deals that bear on the AI record), newest first.

| Date | Bank | Move |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Oct 1, 2026 | [First Merchants](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-merchants) | CEO succession: Stewart to replace Hardwick on 1 January 2027 ([First Merchants Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/712534/000071253426000067/frme-20261001.htm), [First Merchants Bank](https://firstmerchants.com/why-us/news/2026/10/01/first-merchants-bank-ceo-mark-hardwick-to-retire-at-the-end-of-2026-and-president-mike-stewart-to-become-president-and-ceo)) |
| Sep 15, 2026 | [Associated](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated) | Barclays conference: 30 AI use cases in process ([Investing.com](https://investing.com/news/transcripts/associated-banccorp-at-barclays-conference-growth-margins-and-ai-93CH-4901556)) |
| Sep 14, 2026 | [First Financial Bank](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio) | Succession reshuffle: Anderson president, former CIO Myers COO ([First Financial Bancorp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/708955/000070895526000155/ffbc-20260914.htm), [American Banker](https://www.americanbanker.com/news/after-year-of-rapid-growth-ohio-bank-revamps-its-top-ranks)) |
| Sep 8, 2026 | [Wintrust](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/wintrust) | Equipment-finance unit writes on financing the AI boom ([Wintrust Financial Corporation](https://wintrust.com/articles/2026/09/financing-the-ai-innovation-roadmap.html)) |
| Aug 26, 2026 | [Wintrust](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/wintrust) | Wintrust insurance banking note: automated credit assessments, AI governance watch ([Wintrust Financial Corporation](https://wintrust.com/articles/2026/08/insurance-banking-rundown.html)) |
| Aug 14, 2026 | [Central Bank](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/central-bancompany) | Q2 2026 10-Q: AI-related fraud and cyber risks monitored ([Central Bancompany (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2065601/000162828026057081/cbci-20260630.htm)) |
| Aug 14, 2026 | [Central Bank](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/central-bancompany) | Q2 2026 10-Q: $12 million of core modernisation capitalised ([Central Bancompany (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2065601/000162828026057081/cbci-20260630.htm)) |
| Aug 11, 2026 | [First Merchants](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-merchants) | Customer warning on bank-impersonation scams ([First Merchants Bank](https://firstmerchants.com/why-us/news/news-detail/2026/08/11/it-could-happen-to-you--bank-impersonation-scams)) |
| Aug 10, 2026 | [Nicolet](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/nicolet) | MidWestOne scheduled to open as Nicolet National Bank ([Nicolet National Bank](https://www.nicoletbank.com/midwestone-merger)) |
| Aug 7, 2026 | [Park National](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/park-national) | Q2 10-Q: data processing costs up, Tennessee legacy core still running ([Park National Corporation (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/805676/000080567626000061/prk-20260630.htm)) |
| Aug 6, 2026 | [First Financial Bank](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio) | Q2 2026 10-Q: no AI language ([First Financial Bancorp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/708955/000070895526000144/ffbc-20260630.htm), [Investing.com](https://investing.com/news/transcripts/earnings-call-transcript-first-financial-bancorp-posts-q2-2026-profit-beat-93CH-4806062)) |
| Aug 6, 2026 | [Busey Bank](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/busey) | Q2 2026 10-Q: AI named in forward-looking risks; headcount and data processing ([First Busey Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/314489/000031448926000055/buse-20260630.htm)) |
| Aug 5, 2026 | [Associated](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated) | Guide on AI-powered social engineering ([Associated Bank](https://associatedbank.com/education/articles/business-insights/strategy-and-management/ai-powered-social-engineering)) |
| Jul 31, 2026 | [Nicolet](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/nicolet) | Q2 2026 10-Q has no AI language ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000164/nic-20260630.htm), [Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire, investor relations)](https://investors.nicoletbank.com/news-market-information/press-releases/news-details/2026/Nicolet-Bankshares-Inc--Announces-Second-Quarter-2026-Earnings)) |
| Jul 29, 2026 | [Old National](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national) | Q2 2026 10-Q has no AI language ([Old National Bancorp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/707179/000070717926000046/onb-20260630.htm), [Old National Bancorp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/707179/000070717926000038/onb-20260331.htm), [Old National Bancorp](https://ir.oldnational.com/news/press-releases/press-release-details/2026/Old-National-Bancorp-Reports-Record-Second-Quarter-2026-Results-Announces-Enhanced-Executive-Leadership-Structure)) |
| Jul 28, 2026 | [Busey Bank](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/busey) | Q2 2026 investor presentation: AI in the CFO's portfolio ([First Busey Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/314489/000031448926000049/buse_20260728x26q2xex992.htm)) |
| Jul 27, 2026 | [Park National](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/park-national) | Q2 2026 results; conversion on track for third quarter ([Park National Corporation (GlobeNewswire)](https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2026/07/27/3333881/0/en/park-national-corporation-reports-financial-results-for-second-quarter-and-first-half-of-2026.html)) |
| Jul 22, 2026 | [Old National](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national) | Q2 2026 call: AI for scalability ([Yahoo Finance](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/old-national-bancorp-q2-earnings-150646360.html)) |

## What AI have Nicolet's Midwest peers put into use?

The AI work each bank has described, with the scale disclosed and the date. A blank means nothing is disclosed, not that nothing exists.

| Bank | What it has | When | Scale or result disclosed |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nicolet | None disclosed; NCR Voyix Digital Banking platform (no AI feature claimed) | March 2024 (platform) | Not disclosed ([NCR Voyix (Business Wire)](https://businesswire.com/news/home/20240312322423/en/Nicolet-National-Bank-Partners-with-NCR-Voyix-to-Transform-Digital-Banking), [Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000164/nic-20260630.htm)) |
| Old National | AI center of excellence; AI call-center automation; Abrigo AI Loan Review Assistant | April to July 2026 | Loan reviewers about 31% more efficient (vendor-reported); a Power BI clean-up done in a week instead of a month ([The Motley Fool (Yahoo Finance)](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/old-national-onb-q1-2026-172452001.html), [Old National Bank](https://www.oldnational.com/resources/insights/how-cfos-can-drive-real-returns-from-ai-investments), [Abrigo](https://www.abrigo.com/success-stories/how-old-national-bank-increased-loan-review-efficiency-and-capacity-with-ai-powered-workflow-intelligence/)) |
| Associated | AI run by business line; a head of AI for commercial banking | March to September 2026 | 25 AI modules (March 2026); 30 use cases in process (September 2026) ([Investing.com](https://investing.com/news/transcripts/associated-banccorp-at-rbc-conference-strategic-growth-and-ai-integration-93CH-4555875), [Investing.com](https://investing.com/news/transcripts/associated-banccorp-at-barclays-conference-growth-margins-and-ai-93CH-4901556), [Associated Banc-Corp](https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Bank-Hires-Andy-Miner-as-senior-director-AI-for-Corporate--Commercial-Banking)) |
| Busey | Glia voice AI and virtual assistants; a director of AI, data science and insights | February and April 2026 | 61.5% of calls handled by virtual assistants; wrap-up time down 50% ([The Financial Brand](https://thefinancialbrand.com/news/checking-accounts/build-relationships-checking-no-longer-promises-primacy-195883), [Busey Bank](https://www.busey.com/about-us/news-and-announcements/busey-announces-director-of-ai-data-science-and-insights)) |
| First Merchants | Microsoft Copilot firm-wide; AI as a 'front side sifter' for mortgage applications | June 2026 | Target of $1.4 billion of mortgage volume with the same staff ([Louisville Business First](https://www.bizjournals.com/louisville/news/2026/06/05/executive-insights-experts-crypto-ai-business-bank.html)) |
| Wintrust | AI credit adjudication at Wintrust Specialty Finance; vendor AI features switched on under governance | March and August 2026 | 4,000+ equipment deals worth about $500 million in the first half of 2026 ([Equipment Finance News (first published by sister title FinAi News)](https://equipmentfinancenews.com/news/lender-operations/ai-driving-funding-growth-via-credit-adjudication/), [Investing.com](https://www.investing.com/news/transcripts/wintrust-at-rbc-conference-strategic-growth-and-stability-93CH-4553543)) |

## How does Nicolet's AI governance compare with its peers'?

What each bank's latest annual report or proxy says about AI. Disclosure language, not a measure of capability.

| Bank | What the filing says | Oversight named | Filing |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nicolet | AI must be analyzed and addressed for cybersecurity 'before implementation'; AI could worsen fraud; AI-based advice apps compete in wealth management | The CISO works with the Chief Innovation Officer; no AI owner | 2025 10-K, February 27, 2026 ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000077/nic-20251231.htm)) |
| Associated | The business 'increasingly relies on AI'; a dedicated risk factor on AI regulation, third-party tools, data leakage and fair lending | Board technology committee created April 2026; chief data officer reports to the CIO | 2025 10-K; April 2026 ([Associated Banc-Corp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/7789/000000778926000071/asb-20251231.htm), [Associated Banc-Corp](https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Announces-Annual-Meeting-Results-Dividends-Stock-Repurchase-Program-and-New-Technology-Committee), [Associated Bank newsroom](https://newsroom.associatedbank.com/releases/associated-bank-announces-hiring-of-alexander-bush-executive-vice-president-chief-data-officer)) |
| Old National | AI 'including digital employees and digital engineers'; risk of missing expected productivity or cost reduction from AI | Enterprise Risk Committee covers technology 'including artificial intelligence', with quarterly CIO and CISO reports | 2025 10-K; 2026 proxy ([Old National Bancorp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/707179/000070717926000010/onb-20251231.htm), [Old National Bancorp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/707179/000110465926039075/onb-20260513xdef14a.htm)) |
| Wintrust | May selectively incorporate AI in processes, fraud detection, services or products; policies govern AI on the company network | A director credited with guidance on 'artificial intelligence objectives' | 2025 10-K; 2026 proxy ([Wintrust Financial Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1015328/000101532826000007/wtfc-20251231.htm), [Wintrust Financial Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1015328/000110465926041498/tm261521-1_def14a.htm)) |
| First Merchants | First AI risk factor: machine-learning and generative AI tools in use; failing to embrace AI could be a competitive disadvantage | CIO gives risk-assessment input to the Risk and Credit Policy Committee | 2025 10-K; 2026 proxy ([First Merchants Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/712534/000071253426000022/frme-20251231.htm), [First Merchants Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/712534/000071253426000025/frme-20260402.htm)) |
| Busey | Failure to 'adopt, integrate, or govern new technologies, including generative AI' named as a risk; AI-powered fraud and threat detection | AI sits in the CFO's portfolio; a director of AI from April 2026 | 2025 10-K; Q2 2026 deck ([First Busey Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/314489/000031448926000013/buse-20251231.htm), [First Busey Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/314489/000031448926000049/buse_20260728x26q2xex992.htm), [Busey Bank](https://www.busey.com/about-us/news-and-announcements/busey-announces-director-of-ai-data-science-and-insights)) |

## How does Nicolet's technology spending compare with its peers'?

Technology or data-processing expense and the latest integration milestone each bank discloses. None publishes an AI budget.

| Bank | Technology expense disclosed | Integration milestone | Period |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nicolet | Data processing $18.6 million in 2025, up 5%, mostly volume-based core and card processing | MidWestOne closed February 13, 2026; conversion scheduled for August 10, 2026 | 2025; 2026 ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000077/nic-20251231.htm), [Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire)](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260421530305/en), [Nicolet National Bank](https://www.nicoletbank.com/midwestone-merger)) |
| Wintrust | Software and equipment $142.4 million in 2025, up from $122.8 million; $39.3 million in Q2 2026, up 8% | Macatawa business accounts converted April 2025 | 2025; Q2 2026 ([Wintrust Financial Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1015328/000101532826000007/wtfc-20251231.htm), [Wintrust Financial Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1015328/000101532826000022/wtfc-20260630.htm), [Wintrust Financial Corporation](https://www.wintrust.com/lp/2025/businessconversion.html)) |
| Old National | Technology expense $29.6 million in Q2 2026, against $36.1 million in Q3 2025 during the Bremer conversion | Bremer conversion completed October 2025; 100% of $111 million saves by Q1 2026 | 2025-2026 ([Old National Bancorp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/707179/000070717926000046/onb-20260630.htm), [Old National Bancorp](https://ir.oldnational.com/news/press-releases/press-release-details/2026/Old-National-Bancorp-Reports-Record-Second-Quarter-2026-Results-Announces-Enhanced-Executive-Leadership-Structure), [Investing.com](https://investing.com/news/transcripts/earnings-call-transcript-old-national-bancorp-beats-q3-2025-forecasts-93CH-4302279), [Earnings call transcript (The Motley Fool)](https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2026/04/22/old-national-onb-q1-2026-earnings-transcript/)) |
| Busey | Data processing $8.9 million in Q2 2026 | New Busey Digital Banking platform live June 8, 2026 | Q2 2026 ([First Busey Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/314489/000031448926000055/buse-20260630.htm), [Busey Bank](https://busey.com/assets/files/Bw7Fi3VO/DigitalBankingInTheKnow_061126.pdf)) |
| First Merchants | Outside data processing fees $8.0 million in Q2 2026 | First Savings converted May 18, 2026 | Q2 2026 ([First Merchants Corporation (GlobeNewswire via Yahoo Finance)](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/first-merchants-corporation-announces-second-200500052.html), [First Merchants Bank](https://firstmerchants.com/docs/default-source/integrations/first-savings-bank/fmb-fsb-important-information.pdf)) |
| Associated | Not broken out | American National conversion set for October 2026 | May 2026 ([Associated Banc-Corp (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/7789/000000778926000147/asb-20260505.htm)) |

## Which banks are Nicolet's peers, and why these?

Nicolet Bankshares is compared here with Associated Banc-Corp, Old National Bancorp, Wintrust Financial Corporation, First Merchants Corporation, First Busey Corporation, First Financial Bancorp, Park National Corporation and Central Bancompany: chosen by the editors for this page (see the note below the table). Nicolet Bankshares is classed as a regional or retail-commercial bank in the Midwest.

The computed group included banks from Texas, Colorado and New York; this group holds Midwest regionals, led by the three that compete in Nicolet's Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan markets (Associated, also based in Green Bay; Old National, which bought Minnesota's Bremer; and Wintrust in southern Wisconsin and west Michigan), plus Midwest acquirers of similar size.

## Common questions

### Does Nicolet National Bank use AI?

Not on the public record. As of October 2026 Nicolet has named no AI tool, vendor, use case or budget, and its first- and second-quarter 2026 10-Qs contain no reference to artificial intelligence. Its 2025 10-K treats AI as a risk to be analyzed before implementation, a fraud accelerant and a source of robo-advice competition in wealth management. ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000077/nic-20251231.htm), [Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000110/nic-20260331.htm), [Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000164/nic-20260630.htm))

### Is Nicolet behind Associated Bank on AI?

On the record, yes: Associated scores 56.8 on this site's disclosure index against Nicolet's 1.1. Associated, also based in Green Bay, cited 30 AI use cases in September 2026, hired a head of AI for commercial banking and created a board technology committee. Nicolet discloses no AI program; neither bank's index score measures capability, only what is on the record. ([Investing.com](https://investing.com/news/transcripts/associated-banccorp-at-barclays-conference-growth-margins-and-ai-93CH-4901556), [Associated Banc-Corp](https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Bank-Hires-Andy-Miner-as-senior-director-AI-for-Corporate--Commercial-Banking), [Associated Banc-Corp](https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Announces-Annual-Meeting-Results-Dividends-Stock-Repurchase-Program-and-New-Technology-Committee), [Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000077/nic-20251231.htm))

### How does Nicolet compare with Old National on technology?

Old National, which bought Minnesota's Bremer in 2025, has an AI center of excellence, AI call-center automation and an Abrigo loan-review assistant that the vendor says made reviewers about 31% more efficient. Nicolet's disclosed technology is its NCR Voyix digital banking platform and the MidWestOne systems conversion, with no AI program named. ([American Banker](https://americanbanker.com/news/acquisitive-old-national-eyes-growth-in-midwest-southeast), [The Motley Fool (Yahoo Finance)](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/old-national-onb-q1-2026-172452001.html), [Old National Bank](https://www.oldnational.com/resources/insights/how-cfos-can-drive-real-returns-from-ai-investments), [Abrigo](https://www.abrigo.com/success-stories/how-old-national-bank-increased-loan-review-efficiency-and-capacity-with-ai-powered-workflow-intelligence/), [NCR Voyix (Business Wire)](https://businesswire.com/news/home/20240312322423/en/Nicolet-National-Bank-Partners-with-NCR-Voyix-to-Transform-Digital-Banking), [Nicolet National Bank](https://www.nicoletbank.com/midwestone-merger))

### Does Nicolet have an AI virtual assistant?

None is disclosed. Busey reports that Glia virtual assistants handled 61.5% of its calls and cut wrap-up time 50% as it absorbed 30,000 new customers. Associated listed an AI-enabled chatbot among its 2024 initiatives. Nicolet's 2024 NCR Voyix release describes digital banking, data strategy and back-office efficiency, without an AI feature. ([The Financial Brand](https://thefinancialbrand.com/news/checking-accounts/build-relationships-checking-no-longer-promises-primacy-195883), [Associated Banc-Corp](https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2023/Associated-Bank-executing-next-phase-of-strategic-plan), [NCR Voyix (Business Wire)](https://businesswire.com/news/home/20240312322423/en/Nicolet-National-Bank-Partners-with-NCR-Voyix-to-Transform-Digital-Banking))

### Who runs technology at Nicolet?

Since February 24, 2026 EVP Brad Hutjens, also Chief Credit Officer, has been responsible for credit, operations and information technology. The 10-K says the CISO runs information security with the Chief Innovation Officer, named in 2024 as Kelly Fischer. No AI officer is named, unlike Busey's director of AI or Associated's head of AI for commercial banking. ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000086/nic-20260324.htm), [Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000077/nic-20251231.htm), [NCR Voyix (Business Wire)](https://businesswire.com/news/home/20240312322423/en/Nicolet-National-Bank-Partners-with-NCR-Voyix-to-Transform-Digital-Banking), [Busey Bank](https://www.busey.com/about-us/news-and-announcements/busey-announces-director-of-ai-data-science-and-insights), [Associated Banc-Corp](https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Bank-Hires-Andy-Miner-as-senior-director-AI-for-Corporate--Commercial-Banking))

### How does Nicolet's technology spending compare with Midwest peers?

Nicolet reported $18.6 million of data processing expense in 2025, up 5%. Wintrust spent $142.4 million on software and equipment in 2025, up 16%, and Old National reported $29.6 million of technology expense in Q2 2026 alone. Nicolet's 2026 spending is dominated by the MidWestOne integration, with $48.1 million of merger-related expense in the first half. ([Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000077/nic-20251231.htm), [Wintrust Financial Corporation (SEC filings)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1015328/000101532826000007/wtfc-20251231.htm), [Old National Bancorp](https://ir.oldnational.com/news/press-releases/press-release-details/2026/Old-National-Bancorp-Reports-Record-Second-Quarter-2026-Results-Announces-Enhanced-Executive-Leadership-Structure), [Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire, investor relations)](https://investors.nicoletbank.com/news-market-information/press-releases/news-details/2026/Nicolet-Bankshares-Inc--Announces-Second-Quarter-2026-Earnings))

### Why has Nicolet said so little about AI?

Its 2026 has been about MidWestOne. The deal closed on February 13, 2026; the CEO said in April that integration was on plan and in July that the core conversion would let the bank fully realise planned cost savings. Nicolet also sold MidWestOne's Denver branches to Sunwest Bank, completed on July 29, 2026. ([Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire)](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260421530305/en), [Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire via Yahoo Finance)](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/nicolet-bankshares-inc-announces-second-201500387.html), [Sunwest Bank (PR Newswire)](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sunwest-bank-completes-acquisition-of-former-midwestone-and-bank-of-denver-colorado-branches-from-nicolet-national-bank-302838328.html))

## Peers on this site

- [Associated Banc-Corp AI strategy](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated) · [vs peers](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/associated/vs-peers)
- [Old National Bancorp AI strategy](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national) · [vs peers](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/old-national/vs-peers)
- [Wintrust Financial Corporation AI strategy](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/wintrust) · [vs peers](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/wintrust/vs-peers)
- [First Merchants Corporation AI strategy](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-merchants) · [vs peers](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-merchants/vs-peers)
- [First Busey Corporation AI strategy](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/busey) · [vs peers](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/busey/vs-peers)
- [First Financial Bancorp AI strategy](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio) · [vs peers](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/first-financial-ohio/vs-peers)
- [Park National Corporation AI strategy](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/park-national) · [vs peers](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/park-national/vs-peers)
- [Central Bancompany AI strategy](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/central-bancompany) · [vs peers](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/central-bancompany/vs-peers)

## Sources

1. Nicolet Bankshares, Inc. Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 — Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing), Feb 27, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000077/nic-20251231.htm
2. Nicolet Bankshares, Inc. Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2026 — Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing), May 6, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000110/nic-20260331.htm
3. Nicolet Bankshares, Inc. Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026 — Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing), Jul 31, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000164/nic-20260630.htm
4. Associated Banc-Corp at Barclays conference: growth, margins and AI (transcript) — Investing.com, Sep 15, 2026. https://investing.com/news/transcripts/associated-banccorp-at-barclays-conference-growth-margins-and-ai-93CH-4901556
5. Associated Bank Hires Andy Miner as senior director, AI for Corporate & Commercial Banking — Associated Banc-Corp, Jun 30, 2026. https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Bank-Hires-Andy-Miner-as-senior-director-AI-for-Corporate--Commercial-Banking
6. Old National (ONB) Q1 2026 Earnings Transcript — The Motley Fool (Yahoo Finance), Apr 22, 2026. https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/old-national-onb-q1-2026-172452001.html
7. Old National Bank increased loan review efficiency and capacity with Abrigo — Abrigo, Jul 7, 2026. https://www.abrigo.com/success-stories/how-old-national-bank-increased-loan-review-efficiency-and-capacity-with-ai-powered-workflow-intelligence/
8. Building Relationships When Checking No Longer Confers Primacy — The Financial Brand, Feb 24, 2026. https://thefinancialbrand.com/news/checking-accounts/build-relationships-checking-no-longer-promises-primacy-195883
9. Nicolet Bankshares, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2026 Earnings — Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire), Apr 21, 2026. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260421530305/en
10. Nicolet National Bank and MidWestOne Bank: what customers should know — Nicolet National Bank, Jul 1, 2026. https://www.nicoletbank.com/midwestone-merger
11. Nicolet National Bank Partners with NCR Voyix to Transform Digital Banking — NCR Voyix (Business Wire), Mar 12, 2024. https://businesswire.com/news/home/20240312322423/en/Nicolet-National-Bank-Partners-with-NCR-Voyix-to-Transform-Digital-Banking
12. Nicolet Bankshares, Inc. Announces Second Quarter 2026 Earnings — Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire, investor relations), Jul 21, 2026. https://investors.nicoletbank.com/news-market-information/press-releases/news-details/2026/Nicolet-Bankshares-Inc--Announces-Second-Quarter-2026-Earnings
13. Nicolet Bankshares, Inc. Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 — Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing), Feb 25, 2025. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485025000008/nic-20241231.htm
14. First Merchants Corporation Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 — First Merchants Corporation (SEC filings), Feb 24, 2025. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/712534/000071253425000058/frme-20241231.htm
15. First Merchants Corporation Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 — First Merchants Corporation (SEC filings), Feb 25, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/712534/000071253426000022/frme-20251231.htm
16. Wintrust Financial Corporation Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 — Wintrust Financial Corporation (SEC filings), Feb 28, 2025. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1015328/000101532825000093/wtfc-20241231.htm
17. Wintrust Financial Corporation Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 — Wintrust Financial Corporation (SEC filings), Feb 26, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1015328/000101532826000007/wtfc-20251231.htm
18. Associated Bank to buy Nebraska lender for $604M — Banking Dive, Dec 1, 2025. https://www.bankingdive.com/news/associated-bank-deal-american-national-omaha-604-million-acquisition/806659/
19. Associated Banc-Corp Form 8-K with investor presentation (American National conversion timing) — Associated Banc-Corp (SEC filings), May 5, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/7789/000000778926000147/asb-20260505.htm
20. Nicolet Bankshares, Inc. Announces Second Quarter 2026 Earnings — Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire via Yahoo Finance), Jul 21, 2026. https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/nicolet-bankshares-inc-announces-second-201500387.html
21. Minnesota's Bremer Bank to lay off 244 after sale to Old National — Banking Dive, Sep 10, 2025. https://www.bankingdive.com/news/minnesotas-bremer-bank-to-lay-off-244-after-sale-to-old-national/759752/
22. Old National (ONB) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript — Earnings call transcript (The Motley Fool), Apr 22, 2026. https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2026/04/22/old-national-onb-q1-2026-earnings-transcript/
23. Nicolet Bankshares, Inc. Definitive Proxy Statement (DEF 14A) for the 2026 annual meeting — Nicolet Bankshares (SEC filing), Mar 24, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1174850/000117485026000086/nic-20260324.htm
24. Bernini Joins Busey as Director of AI — Busey Bank, Apr 6, 2026. https://www.busey.com/about-us/news-and-announcements/busey-announces-director-of-ai-data-science-and-insights
25. Associated Bank announces hiring of Alexander Bush, executive vice president, chief data officer — Associated Bank newsroom, Feb 24, 2026. https://newsroom.associatedbank.com/releases/associated-bank-announces-hiring-of-alexander-bush-executive-vice-president-chief-data-officer
26. How CFOs Can Drive Real Returns From AI Investments — Old National Bank, May 19, 2026. https://www.oldnational.com/resources/insights/how-cfos-can-drive-real-returns-from-ai-investments
27. Executive Insights: Experts weigh in on state of crypto, AI and what the business community needs most from banks right now — Louisville Business First, Jun 5, 2026. https://www.bizjournals.com/louisville/news/2026/06/05/executive-insights-experts-crypto-ai-business-bank.html
28. AI driving funding growth via credit adjudication — Equipment Finance News (first published by sister title FinAi News), Aug 6, 2026. https://equipmentfinancenews.com/news/lender-operations/ai-driving-funding-growth-via-credit-adjudication/
29. Old National Receives 2026 Trust in Banking Award — Old National Bancorp, Jan 22, 2026. https://ir.oldnational.com/news/press-releases/press-release-details/2026/Old-National-Receives-2026-Trust-in-Banking-Award
30. Old National Bank, Axletree Solutions Partnership Finalizes Critical Swift Architecture, Achieves ISO 20022 Compliance for 2026 — GlobeNewswire via FT Markets, Feb 10, 2026. https://markets.ft.com/data/announce/full?dockey=1330-9651962en-471PA5GUQ40497E71D0E3EU3B5
31. Four tips to identify AI solutions that solve real business problems — Old National Bank, Apr 11, 2025. https://www.oldnational.com/resources/insights/four-tips-to-identify-ai-solutions-that-solve-real-business-problems/
32. What not to share when using AI for personal finance help — Old National Bank, May 26, 2026. https://www.oldnational.com/resources/insights/what-not-to-share-when-using-ai-for-personal-finance-help/
33. Associated Bank chief digital officer joins from BMO — Banking Dive, Jul 30, 2026. https://www.bankingdive.com/news/associated-bank-chief-digital-officer-joins-from-bmo/826613/
34. Alexander Bush, EVP, Chief Data Officer & CIO, Associated Bank (Digital Banking speaker profile) — American Banker, Apr 23, 2026. https://digital-banking.americanbanker.com/profile/alexander-bush
35. Associated Announces Annual Meeting Results; Dividends; Stock Repurchase Program; and New Technology Committee — Associated Banc-Corp, Apr 28, 2026. https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2026/Associated-Announces-Annual-Meeting-Results-Dividends-Stock-Repurchase-Program-and-New-Technology-Committee
36. Q1 2026 Earnings Investor Presentation — First Busey Corporation, Apr 28, 2026. https://ir.busey.com/static-files/e566cc4a-c381-404d-a3b6-e8d0a79aced4
37. First Busey Corporation Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 — First Busey Corporation (SEC filings), Feb 26, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/314489/000031448926000013/buse-20251231.htm
38. Q2 2026 Earnings Investor Presentation (Form 8-K, Exhibit 99.2) — First Busey Corporation (SEC filings), Jul 28, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/314489/000031448926000049/buse_20260728x26q2xex992.htm
39. Busey Bank: 30,000 New Customers, Zero Hiring — Glia (case study), Sep 24, 2026. https://www.glia.com/case-study/busey-bank
40. Central Bancompany, Inc. Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 — Central Bancompany (SEC filings), Mar 25, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2065601/000162828026021067/cbci-20251231.htm
41. How AI is Changing the Economy (undated page, retrieved 2026-09-24) — Central Bank, Sep 24, 2026. https://www.centralbank.net/learning-center/how-ai-is-changing-the-economy/
42. The Rise of AI-Enhanced Scams — Central Bank, Nov 7, 2024. https://www.centralbank.net/learning-center/security/emerging-trends/the-rise-of-ai-enhanced-scams/
43. Central Bank Boosts Financial Wellness for Customers Through Personetics' AI-powered Platform — Personetics (PR Newswire), Mar 27, 2024. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/central-bank-boosts-financial-wellness-for-customers-through-personetics-ai-powered-platform-302101105.html
44. How Personetics and Central Bank Drive Customer-Centered Banking — Personetics, Apr 16, 2026. https://personetics.com/resource-center/how-personetics-and-central-bank-drive-customer-centered-banking
45. Nicolet Bankshares, Inc. Announces Record Earnings — Nicolet Bankshares (Business Wire), Jan 20, 2026. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260120842782/en/Nicolet-Bankshares-Inc.-Announces-Record-Earnings
46. Associated Bank CEO wants to pave 'highway to private wealth' — Banking Dive, Apr 27, 2026. https://www.bankingdive.com/news/associated-bank-ceo-harmening-private-wealth-commercial/818566/
47. Associated Banc-Corp Reports Second Quarter 2026 Earnings of $0.63 Per Common Share, or $0.73 Excluding Nonrecurring Items — PR Newswire via FT Markets, Jul 23, 2026. https://markets.ft.com/data/announce/full?dockey=600-202607231615PR_NEWS_USPRX____CG11257-1
48. US 8,280,813 B2: System and method for providing debt protection for financial overdraft account (assignee Associated Banc-Corp) — Google Patents (USPTO), Oct 2, 2012. https://patents.google.com/patent/US8280813B2/en
49. Old National Bancorp Reports Record Second Quarter 2026 Results; Announces Enhanced Executive Leadership Structure — Old National Bancorp, Jul 22, 2026. https://ir.oldnational.com/news/press-releases/press-release-details/2026/Old-National-Bancorp-Reports-Record-Second-Quarter-2026-Results-Announces-Enhanced-Executive-Leadership-Structure
50. Acquisitive Old National eyes growth in Midwest, Southeast — American Banker, Jan 21, 2025. https://americanbanker.com/news/acquisitive-old-national-eyes-growth-in-midwest-southeast
51. Google Patents assignee search: Old National Bancorp (0 results) — Google Patents (USPTO), Oct 14, 2026. https://patents.google.com/?assignee=%22Old+National+Bancorp%22
52. Google Patents assignee search: Old National Bank (only third-party patents that mention the bank) — Google Patents (USPTO), Oct 14, 2026. https://patents.google.com/?assignee=%22Old+National+Bank%22
53. Strategic Growth and Service By Investing.com — Investing.com (Raymond James Institutional Investors Conference, 3 March 2026), Mar 3, 2026. https://www.investing.com/news/transcripts/wintrust-at-raymond-james-conference-strategic-growth-and-service-93CH-4538546
54. Wintrust Financial Corporation (WTFC) Q2 FY2026 earnings call transcript — Yahoo Finance (Quartr), Jul 21, 2026. https://finance.yahoo.com/quote/WTFC/earnings/WTFC-Q2-2026-earnings_call-652204.html
55. Wintrust Financial Corporation Appoints Two Members to Board of Directors — Wintrust Financial Corporation (GlobeNewswire), Oct 2, 2025. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/10/02/3160702/11955/en/wintrust-financial-corporation-appoints-two-members-to-board-of-directors.html
56. First Merchants Corporation Announces Second Quarter 2026 Results — First Merchants Corporation (GlobeNewswire via Yahoo Finance), Jul 22, 2026. https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/first-merchants-corporation-announces-second-200500052.html
57. First Merchants Bank Recognized on Forbes' World's Best Banks 2026 — First Merchants Bank, Jun 4, 2026. https://firstmerchants.com/why-us/news/2026/06/04/first-merchants-bank-recognized-on-forbes--world-s-best-banks-2026
58. First Merchants Corporation Form 8-K: CEO retirement and succession — First Merchants Corporation (SEC filings), Oct 1, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/712534/000071253426000067/frme-20261001.htm
59. First Busey Corporation Announces 2026 Second Quarter Earnings — First Busey Corporation (GlobeNewswire), Jul 28, 2026. https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2026/07/28/3334801/10701/en/First-Busey-Corporation-Announces-2026-Second-Quarter-Earnings.html
60. Busey, Dukeman Agree to Contract Extension — First Busey Corporation (GlobeNewswire), Jul 14, 2026. https://ir.busey.com/news-releases/news-release-details/busey-dukeman-agree-contract-extension/
61. Cincinnati's First Financial strikes third deal in 13 months — American Banker, Jul 22, 2026. https://www.americanbanker.com/news/cincinnatis-first-financial-strikes-third-deal-in-13-months
62. First Financial Bancorp Announces Second Quarter 2026 Financial Results, Quarterly Dividend Increase & Acquisition of Finward Bancorp — First Financial Bancorp (PR Newswire via Yahoo Finance), Jul 21, 2026. https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/first-financial-bancorp-announces-second-203000197.html
63. First Financial Bancorp. Form 8-K (Item 5.02: appointment of President, Chief Banking Officer and Chief Operating Officer) — First Financial Bancorp (SEC filings), Sep 15, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/708955/000070895526000155/ffbc-20260914.htm
64. First Financial Bancorp. Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 — First Financial Bancorp (SEC filings), Feb 22, 2024. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/708955/000070895524000018/ffbc-20231231.htm
65. First Financial Bancorp. Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 — First Financial Bancorp (SEC filings), Feb 20, 2025. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/708955/000070895525000012/ffbc-20241231.htm
66. First Financial Bancorp. Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 — First Financial Bancorp (SEC filings), Feb 19, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/708955/000070895526000028/ffbc-20251231.htm
67. Park National Corporation 2025 Annual Report to Shareholders (Form ARS) — Park National Corporation (SEC filing, ARS), Mar 9, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/805676/000080567626000023/a2025annualreport_finalx.htm
68. Park National Corporation names Matthew R. Miller Chief Executive Officer; David L. Trautman to continue as Board Chair — Park National Corporation (GlobeNewswire), Jul 29, 2025. https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/07/29/3123162/4491/en/Park-National-Corporation-names-Matthew-R-Miller-Chief-Executive-Officer-David-L-Trautman-to-continue-as-Board-Chair.html
69. Central Bancompany, Inc. Reports Second Quarter 2026 Results, Declares Regular $0.12 Dividend and Authorizes $100 Million Share Repurchase — Central Bancompany (GlobeNewswire), Aug 4, 2026. https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2026/08/04/3338232/0/en/central-bancompany-inc-reports-second-quarter-2026-results-declares-regular-0-12-dividend-and-authorizes-100-million-share-repurchase.html
70. First Merchants Bank CEO Mark Hardwick to Retire at the End of 2026 and President Mike Stewart to Become President and CEO — First Merchants Bank, Oct 1, 2026. https://firstmerchants.com/why-us/news/2026/10/01/first-merchants-bank-ceo-mark-hardwick-to-retire-at-the-end-of-2026-and-president-mike-stewart-to-become-president-and-ceo
71. After year of rapid growth, Ohio bank revamps its top ranks — American Banker, Sep 22, 2026. https://www.americanbanker.com/news/after-year-of-rapid-growth-ohio-bank-revamps-its-top-ranks
72. Financing the AI innovation roadmap — Wintrust Financial Corporation, Sep 8, 2026. https://wintrust.com/articles/2026/09/financing-the-ai-innovation-roadmap.html
73. Insurance Banking Rundown — Wintrust Financial Corporation, Aug 26, 2026. https://wintrust.com/articles/2026/08/insurance-banking-rundown.html
74. Central Bancompany, Inc. Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026 — Central Bancompany (SEC filings), Aug 14, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2065601/000162828026057081/cbci-20260630.htm
75. It Could Happen to You: Bank Impersonation Scams — First Merchants Bank, Aug 11, 2026. https://firstmerchants.com/why-us/news/news-detail/2026/08/11/it-could-happen-to-you--bank-impersonation-scams
76. Park National Corporation Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2026 — Park National Corporation (SEC filing), Aug 7, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/805676/000080567626000061/prk-20260630.htm
77. First Financial Bancorp. Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026 — First Financial Bancorp (SEC filings), Aug 6, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/708955/000070895526000144/ffbc-20260630.htm
78. Earnings call transcript: First Financial Bancorp posts Q2 2026 profit beat — Investing.com, Jul 22, 2026. https://investing.com/news/transcripts/earnings-call-transcript-first-financial-bancorp-posts-q2-2026-profit-beat-93CH-4806062
79. First Busey Corporation Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026 — First Busey Corporation (SEC filings), Aug 6, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/314489/000031448926000055/buse-20260630.htm
80. AI-Powered Social Engineering: Is Your Business at Risk? — Associated Bank, Aug 5, 2026. https://associatedbank.com/education/articles/business-insights/strategy-and-management/ai-powered-social-engineering
81. Old National Bancorp Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026 — Old National Bancorp (SEC filings), Jul 29, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/707179/000070717926000046/onb-20260630.htm
82. Old National Bancorp Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2026 — Old National Bancorp (SEC filings), Apr 29, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/707179/000070717926000038/onb-20260331.htm
83. Park National Corporation reports financial results for second quarter and first half of 2026 — Park National Corporation (GlobeNewswire), Jul 27, 2026. https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2026/07/27/3333881/0/en/park-national-corporation-reports-financial-results-for-second-quarter-and-first-half-of-2026.html
84. Old National Bancorp Q2 Earnings Call Highlights — Yahoo Finance, Jul 22, 2026. https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/old-national-bancorp-q2-earnings-150646360.html
85. Associated Banc-Corp at RBC Conference: Strategic Growth and AI Integration (transcript) — Investing.com, Mar 11, 2026. https://investing.com/news/transcripts/associated-banccorp-at-rbc-conference-strategic-growth-and-ai-integration-93CH-4555875
86. Strategic Growth and Stability (Wintrust at the RBC Capital Markets Global Financial Institutions Conference, transcript) — Investing.com, Mar 10, 2026. https://www.investing.com/news/transcripts/wintrust-at-rbc-conference-strategic-growth-and-stability-93CH-4553543
87. Associated Banc-Corp Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 — Associated Banc-Corp (SEC filings), Feb 12, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/7789/000000778926000071/asb-20251231.htm
88. Old National Bancorp Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 — Old National Bancorp (SEC filings), Feb 19, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/707179/000070717926000010/onb-20251231.htm
89. Old National Bancorp 2026 Proxy Statement (DEF 14A) — Old National Bancorp (SEC filings), Apr 2, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/707179/000110465926039075/onb-20260513xdef14a.htm
90. Wintrust Financial Corporation 2026 Proxy Statement (DEF 14A) — Wintrust Financial Corporation (SEC filings), Apr 9, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1015328/000110465926041498/tm261521-1_def14a.htm
91. First Merchants Corporation 2026 Proxy Statement — First Merchants Corporation (SEC filings), Apr 3, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/712534/000071253426000025/frme-20260402.htm
92. Wintrust Financial Corporation Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2026 — Wintrust Financial Corporation (SEC filings), Aug 5, 2026. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1015328/000101532826000022/wtfc-20260630.htm
93. Macatawa Conversion Weekend - April 25 - 28, 2025 — Wintrust Financial Corporation, Apr 25, 2025. https://www.wintrust.com/lp/2025/businessconversion.html
94. Earnings call transcript: Old National Bancorp beats Q3 2025 forecasts — Investing.com, Oct 22, 2025. https://investing.com/news/transcripts/earnings-call-transcript-old-national-bancorp-beats-q3-2025-forecasts-93CH-4302279
95. Busey Bank Digital Banking In The Know, June 2026 — Busey Bank, Jun 11, 2026. https://busey.com/assets/files/Bw7Fi3VO/DigitalBankingInTheKnow_061126.pdf
96. First Savings Bank to First Merchants: Important Information Guide — First Merchants Bank, May 13, 2026. https://firstmerchants.com/docs/default-source/integrations/first-savings-bank/fmb-fsb-important-information.pdf
97. Associated Bank executing next phase of strategic plan — Associated Banc-Corp, Nov 9, 2023. https://investor.associatedbank.com/news/news-details/2023/Associated-Bank-executing-next-phase-of-strategic-plan
98. Sunwest Bank Completes Acquisition of Former MidWestOne and Bank of Denver, Colorado Branches from Nicolet National Bank — Sunwest Bank (PR Newswire), Jul 29, 2026. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sunwest-bank-completes-acquisition-of-former-midwestone-and-bank-of-denver-colorado-branches-from-nicolet-national-bank-302838328.html

---

Canonical page: https://www.bankingnewsai.com/banks/nicolet/vs-peers
Part of [BankingNewsAI](https://www.bankingnewsai.com/). Markdown versions of every reference page: append `.md` to the page URL; index at https://www.bankingnewsai.com/llms.txt.