Southern Indiana’s Next Strategy: The ‘FOURIDOR’

By Lance Allison, President & CEO, One Southern Indiana 

Southern Indiana is on the cusp of transformational growth. Recent announcements totaling more than 4,000 new jobs and over $2.5 billion in capital investments are not just numbers on a page, they are real signs of a region on the rise. The challenge now is ensuring these investments translate into long-term success. This moment demands more than celebration, it demands vision, coordination, and a relentless commitment to shaping the future. 

At One Southern Indiana (1si), we believe the formula for success is clear: a strong mix of industrial development, job creation, housing growth, and quality of life enhancements. That formula is already working. At 1si, we understand that true progress comes from collaboration, foresight, and balance. That’s why we continue to work hand-in-hand with private partners, municipalities, and regional stakeholders to ensure Southern Indiana not only keeps its momentum but accelerates it. 

But no community succeeds in a vacuum. The future of Southern Indiana hinges on continued strategic investments not only locally, but also across the state. We must keep pushing for infrastructure upgrades, workforce development, site readiness, and policies that support both large-scale industry and small businesses that make our communities unique. That’s how we ensure our recent wins aren’t fleeting—but become the foundation for a more resilient economy. 

One of our most persistent and paradoxical challenges is also one of our greatest assets: our regional relationship with Louisville, Kentucky. The Ohio River may separate us physically, but Southern Indiana and Louisville are deeply interconnected economically, socially, and culturally. This bi-state dynamic has created complexities when it comes to external branding and targeted industry attraction, but it also offers one of our greatest advantages: access to a broad, skilled workforce and a shared infrastructure that spans two states. 

Rather than shy away from this complexity, 1si is leaning into it. We believe it’s time to reimagine how our region is presented on the national and global stage. Together with our partners, we’re taking bold steps to define a regional identity that reflects our strengths, potential, and unique logistics advantage. 

That’s why we’re excited to unveil a new regional ecosystem identity in the coming months: The FOURIDOR. Developed in partnership with Duke Energy and local collaborators, this brand is more than a name, it’s a statement about who we are and what we offer. Derived from the word “corridor,” the FOURIDOR emphasizes our four R’s: River, Rail, Roads, and Runways. These aren’t just infrastructure assets, they represent a logistics and transportation network that gives our region a competitive edge unlike any other. 

Much like the Research Triangle in North Carolina or Wall Street in New York, the FOURIDOR is designed to encapsulate a place where geography, proximity, talent, and industry align to create something truly exceptional. It reflects the real, strategic advantages we offer companies looking to grow, expand, or relocate. 

Southern Indiana is ready. We are ready to lead, ready to partner, and ready to make the most of this unprecedented moment in our region’s history. The future will be shaped by those who choose to act boldly—and we intend to be among them. As we move forward, 1si remains committed to working alongside our regional, state, and private sector partners to ensure that every opportunity is realized and every challenge is turned into a new path for progress. 

This is our time. Let’s build it—together. 

 

The Fouridor is made possible by the generous funding from the following businesses:
  • Duke Energy
  • The Koetter Group
  • Ports of Indiana – Jeffersonville
  • River Ridge Development Authority
  • Dan Cristiani Excavating Co., Inc.
  • Mac Construction & Excavating, Inc.
  • Frost Brown Todd, LLP
  • Clark County REMC
  • Southern Indiana Works
  • CenterPoint Energy

Thank You for Renewing Your Membership | June 2025

One Southern Indiana would like to thank the following members for renewing their membership during the month of June 2025.

Quarter Century Club (25 Years or More)Member Since
Baptist Health Floyd1968
Clarksville Community Schools1984
TowerPinkster1988
Christ Gospel Churches Intl., Inc.1990
Koerber’s Fine Jewelry1991
DKN Architects1994
  
Ten to 24 Years 
Davis Financial Services2005
Commonwealth Sign Co.2008
Sellersburg Metals & Welding Co., Inc.2008
Coronado Stone, Inc.2010
Kentuckiana Wood Products, Inc.2011
LBMC2011
Owings Patterns Inc.2011
Rauch Industries2011
Big O Tires of New Albany2013
Jenpale LLC2013
A Plus Paper Shredding2014
Lochmueller Group, Inc.2014
Semonin Realtors2014
Clayton & Lambert Mfg. Co.2015
  
Five to Nine Years 
Borden-Henryville School Corporation2017
ProRehab Physical Therapy2017
Storming Crab2018
Martin’s Body Shop2020
  
Two to Four Years 
Kochert Insurance2021
Lopp Real Estate Brokers2022
Olive Tree Resources2022
Outfront Media2022
Taft Law2022
The Dermatology Center – New Albany2022
Brightnight LLC2023
Cornerstone Group2023
Elite Packaging LLC2023
Geoghegan Roofing2023
Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari 2023
Kentucky Bourbon Festival, Inc.2023
Mitch Craig Heating & Cooling2023
NAMI Louisville2023
Prosource2023
Rural 1st2023
  
One Year 
&Forth2024
Budget Blinds of New Albany2024
DC Develop2024
Louisville Orchestra2024
New Image Cabinet Coatings2024
ORI2024
Shippers Solutions2024
Southern Indiana Football Club2024
Southern Indiana Pride, Inc.2024
The Miller Company2024

Economic Update | Southern Indiana’s Strength in a Diversifying Economy 

Submitted by Uric Dufrene, Ph.D., Sanders Chair in Business, Indiana University Southeast

After falling more than 19% following “Liberation Day” on April 2nd, the S&P 500 has not only recovered but surged to reach new all-time highs. Just a few months ago, many were forecasting a grim outlook—stagflation, characterized by rising prices and slowing growth, seemed likely. Consumer sentiment plunged, inflation expectations soared, and financial markets responded with rising Treasury yields and a weakening dollar—an unusual pairing that signaled investor anxiety. 

Fast forward three months, and the landscape looks markedly different. The stock market has fully erased its losses and climbed to record levels. Consumer sentiment is rebounding, and inflation has not yet shown any impact from actual and proposed tariffs. In our last column, we raised the possibility of a summer surprise in the form of a Fed rate cut. Since then, two Federal Reserve Governors—Christopher Waller and Michelle Bowman—have publicly supported a cut in July. While market odds still suggest the first cut is more likely in September, a July move remains on the table. The Fed Watch Tool now shows expectations of three rate cuts in 2025. 

So, what explains this sharp market rebound? 

First, investors appear to have priced in a more moderate version of the Liberation Day tariffs. While some level of tariffs is still expected, the most severe proposals from April seem less likely. Second, recent inflation data have yet to reflect any tariff-driven price increases, which keeps pressure off the Fed and increases the likelihood of future rate cuts. A soft June jobs report combined with continued easing in inflation could be enough to prompt action in July. And third, although some economic indicators have softened, the broader picture still suggests the U.S. is likely to avoid a recession—at least this year. 

One area that continues to struggle, however, is manufacturing. Despite the political rhetoric around tariffs benefiting domestic industry, the data tell a different story. Manufacturing activity remains in contraction, with the ISM Index staying below 50. National manufacturing payrolls have declined in most months since the third quarter of 2023. Regional indicators, such as the Empire State Manufacturing Survey, the Philly Fed, Kansas City Fed, and Richmond Fed indexes, also reflect a challenging environment. Based on the evidence so far, tariffs—or even the threat of them—appear to be doing more harm than good for U.S. manufacturers. 

Meanwhile, Southern Indiana continues to show strength. Recently released payroll data for Indiana metro areas reveal that Southern Indiana posted one of the strongest job growth rates in the state—adding 1,703 jobs in the fourth quarter of 2024 (pre-tariff issue) compared to the same period a year earlier. Only Indianapolis saw a larger increase, as expected given its size. 

Notably, the two most manufacturing-intensive metro areas in the state—Columbus and Elkhart-Goshen—experienced overall job losses. In contrast, the three least manufacturing-dependent metros—Indianapolis, Muncie, and Southern Indiana—all recorded job gains. Other regions with job declines include the Indiana portions of the Cincinnati metro, Evansville, and Michigan City. In each of these areas, manufacturing remains the dominant or near-dominant sector. 

The takeaway is clear: economic diversification matters. Southern Indiana’s continued growth, despite broader manufacturing weakness, underscores the advantages of a more balanced and resilient economic base. 

Posters, Passports and Play: Earn Prizes & Enter to Win at SoIN’s Summer Passport Party on July 1

Southern Indiana (June 26, 2025) – Enjoy free family-friendly activities, a poster reveal, artist meet and greet and more at the SoIN Summer Passport Party from 3 – 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1 at Recbar 812, 336 Pearl Street, New Albany, IN. During the party, SoIN Tourism is unveiling three new poster designs for their year-round passport programs. Each print was created by local artist Carrie Johns as an exclusive prize for passholders.

Celebrate the poster reveal with family-friendly fun at Recbar 812!

  • Free face painting by Bohemian Monkey
  • Free balloon animals by Fossi Lou Balloons
  • Ticket giveaways for Holiday World and New Albany Wicked Walk
  • Self-guided mural walking tour

Summer Passport Party Limited Time Offer

The year-round Scenic SoIN, Inspired SoIN and Stranger Things of SoIN passports allow visitors, and residents, to explore Southern Indiana’s best sights, creative scenes and peculiar spots with ease.  During the party, passholders can check in at just three locations on any of the year-round passports to claim one of Johns’ new posters! Offer is only available during the SoIN Summer Passport Party. Poster must be claimed by 7 p.m. on July 1, 2025, at Recbar 812.

Games & Grub at Recbar 812

Kids 12 and under eat free every Tuesday at Recbar 812 with the purchase of an adult entrée! The restaurant’s kid-friendly menu features chicken tenders, burgers, mac and cheese, and Totchos – tater tots loaded with a variety of toppings. Stick around to enjoy Recbar’s 100+ arcade games and 70+ pinball machines. Attendees can claim 10 free tokens when they sign up for the SoIN Fun Trail, Southern Indiana’s summertime guide to the best family-friendly experiences in SoIN. SoIN Fun Trail prizes will also be available for pick up at Recbar 812 during the SoIN Summer Passport Party.

Signing Up for Passports

Sign up for one or more of SoIN Tourism’s free passports at GoSoIN.com/Passports. Once registered, participants receive an email and text prompting them to add the passport to their smartphone home screen for convenient access. Passholders can use the passports to check in and earn points for prizes. Points can also be used for entries into grand prize drawings.

If you are planning to attend, or if you would like to set up an interview in advance, please contact Communications Manager Anna Rosales-Crone at Anna@GoSoIN.com or 812-282-6692.

About Carrie Johns

Carrie Johns is an accomplished professional artist who has been painting murals throughout the region for 25 years. She has worked with clients such as Kroger, Rabbit Hole Distillery, Falls City Beer and the City of New Albany. In addition to fine art and signage, Johns has painted several colorful murals throughout Southern Indiana and Louisville, including six featured on the Inspired SoIN digital passport.

About SoIN Tourism

SoIN Tourism is the official destination marketing organization for Clark and Floyd Counties in Southern Indiana, just north of Louisville, Ky. Offering authentic experiences in the Kentuckiana region, SoIN includes historic downtowns in Jeffersonville and New Albany, Clarksville’s retail corridor, as well as the communities of Charlestown, Floyds Knobs, Henryville, Memphis, New Washington, Sellersburg, and Starlight. Visitors who would like more information can visit the destination’s website, GoSoIN.com.

 

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Recent IU Southeast grads attain record outcomes and increased income levels in the first year post-graduation

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (June 26, 2025) – A new Indiana University survey of graduate outcomes shows that IU Southeast once again leads all IU campuses in graduates’ full-time job placement and graduates employed in their field of study. Additionally, graduates of IU Southeast, on average, saw a 17 percent increase in first-year salaries as compared to the study completed in 2022-23.

The IU First Destination Survey explores the outcomes of IU undergraduate students in their first year following graduation. The survey focuses on the outcome of IU graduates who earned undergraduate degrees during the 2023-2024 academic year.

The survey, conducted by Indiana University’s Office of Student Success in collaboration with campus career services and Institutional Analytics, drew data from over 78 percent of IU Southeast graduates. Data collected from primary and secondary sources, including student questionnaires, departmental reports, and social media profiles, were used to assemble the outcomes profile.

Of these graduates, 97 percent were either employed (86.5%) or enrolled in an educational program such as graduate or professional school (10.6%). There were no reported outcomes of graduates entering military service. The survey identified less than three percent of graduates who were still seeking employment (2.7%).

Of nearly 87 percent who had accepted offers of employment, 98 percent were working full-time with an average salary of $58,311, an increase of 17 percent from the class of 2022-23.

Impressively, nearly 97 percent of working graduates reported that their employment was directly related to their field of study, with top employers including Norton Healthcare, UPS, Humana, Baptist Health, Greater Clark County Schools, and New Albany Floyd County Schools. Additionally, 95 percent of employed graduates reported working in Indiana or Kentucky, reinforcing the university’s critical role in educating regional talent.

Chancellor Debbie Ford praised the results as a testament to the university’s mission:

“At IU Southeast, student success is not just a goal—it’s a promise we deliver on year after year. Our graduates are entering the workforce prepared, confident, and career-ready, and they’re finding well-paying careers in their chosen fields right here in our region,” said Chancellor Ford. “These outcomes speak to the power of hands-on learning, strong faculty mentorship, and our deep connection with local employers. We remain committed to fueling both opportunity for our students and growth for our community.”

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About IU Southeast: IU Southeast is one of nine campuses of Indiana University. Offering top-quality and nationally accredited programs in education, nursing, business, social sciences, natural sciences, arts and humanities, the scenic 180-acre campus is located less than 15 minutes from downtown Louisville, Kentucky. It currently has over 3,750 students and employs over 360 faculty members. About 400 students live on campus in five fully furnished, lodge-style residence halls. Through an agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Indiana University Southeast offers in-state tuition to students enrolled from ten counties in the Louisville region, including Bullitt, Hardin, Henry, Jefferson, Meade, Nelson, Oldham, Shelby, Trimble, and Spencer counties and discounted tuition for remaining Kentucky residents through the Indiana Partner Program. For more information, visit . IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus.

Economic Update | Data Dependency and the Fed: Are Rate Cuts Around the Corner?

submitted by
Uric Dufrene, Ph.D., Sanders Chair in Business, Indiana University Southeast

You’ve likely heard the term “data dependent” when Federal Reserve officials, including Chairman Jerome Powell, discuss monetary policy. The phrase is often used to justify interest rate decisions based on evolving economic conditions. 

Last September, for example, the Fed lowered the target Federal Funds rate by 50 basis points, citing signs of a cooling labor market and declining inflation as justification for the cut. A second reduction of 25 basis points followed shortly after the presidential election. Since then, the Fed Funds rate has held steady at 4.5%. 

Today, both political and economic commentators are again weighing in — many arguing that it’s time for another cut. With data dependency still guiding the Fed’s decision-making, the evidence could support both the case for a cut and the case for standing pat. Let’s take a closer look at the data. 

While many expect the Fed to hold rates steady in June, a summer surprise remains very much on the table. 

Inflation: The Fed’s Primary Target 

Inflation remains central to the Fed’s analysis. Back in September 2024, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) stood at 2.4%, with core CPI (excluding food and energy) at 3.3%. Those readings were part of the Fed’s rationale for easing rates at the time. 

Fast forward to 2025: CPI remains at 2.4%, but core CPI has declined to 2.8%, a modest but meaningful improvement. From a data-dependent lens, this continued decline in core inflation strengthens the argument for a rate cut. 

The Fed’s preferred inflation measure, the core Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index, tells a similar story. Last September, core PCE was at 2.7%; today, it stands at 2.5%. Again, this supports the notion that inflation is moving in the right direction. 

Labor Market: Signs of Softening 

Labor market data played a significant role in last year’s rate reductions, and similar dynamics are present now. 

In September 2024, weekly unemployment claims hovered around 230,000. Currently, claims remain in that same range — fluctuating slightly but staying consistent with a stable labor market that shows no imminent signs of recession. 

Payroll growth tells a slightly different story. Last September, payrolls rose by an impressive 230,000 jobs.  But for the first five months of 2025, monthly payroll growth has averaged just 124,000. This represents a notable slowdown from the 165,000 monthly average seen in 2024 — suggesting a gradually cooling labor market. 

Other employment indicators also support the case for easing. The Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) shows that job openings continue to exceed the number of unemployed workers by approximately 200,000 — similar to last year, but down significantly from the post-pandemic imbalance. Labor supply and demand are moving into better balance. 

Wage growth has also moderated. Average weekly earnings, which were rising at a 4.3% year-over-year pace last year, have now slowed to 4%. This easing wage pressure further reduces concerns about a wage-price spiral. 

The household employment survey provides additional evidence of labor market softening. In the lead-up to last year’s 50-basis-point cut, household employment rose by over 600,000 jobs, including a gain of 375,000 in September alone. This year, household employment has declined by 620,000 since January, including a 700,000 drop in May. The unemployment rate has ticked up slightly to 4.2% from 4.1% last fall — another signal of a gradually weakening labor market. 

Uncertainty: Less of a Headwind Today 

One argument for caution is heightened uncertainty, particularly surrounding trade policy and tariffs. But even this concern has moderated somewhat. In late 2024, the NFIB Small Business Uncertainty Index hit an all-time high as election-season rhetoric fueled concerns about tariff policies. While trade policy remains unsettled, today’s uncertainty levels are considerably lower than they were last fall. 

A Summer Surprise? 

If the Fed chooses to hold steady at its June meeting, the stage may still be set for rate reductions later this summer. Given the Fed’s stated commitment to data dependency, both inflation and labor market indicators now point toward conditions that justified cuts just months ago. 

Whether the Fed chooses to act in July or later, one thing is clear: the data may soon leave policymakers with little choice but to begin easing rates once again. 

Nonprofit Spotlight | St. Elizabeth Catholic Charities

St. Elizabeth Catholic Charities
702 E. Market St.
New Albany, IN  47150
812.949.7305
www.stecharities.org
Contact Person:
Leah Alexander, Development Director

Please use 300 words or less to describe your agency and your impact in the community.

St. Elizabeth Catholic Charities is a non-profit human service agency, serving all of Southern Indiana and Metro Louisville. With a deep respect for all life, we are dedicated to providing for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of our community. We provide comfort and quality services to those in need, and we strive to foster an attitude of self-sufficiency in each of our clients. St. Elizabeth Catholic Charities does not discriminate, we provide help, create hope and serve all.

Agency Mission Statement or Description: To affirm the dignity of and respect for all human life by assisting individuals and families in need to achieve empowerment and self-sufficiency.

Year established:1979

Counties/regions serviced: all of SOIN and Louisville

Focus areas: Women and Children Homeless shelter, Domestic Violence shelter, Affordable Supportive Housing, School Counseling, Supported Living, Adoption, community distribution.

Impact in the community: We are currently the only domestic violence shelter in SOIN. We provide comfort and quality services to those in need. We strive to foster an attitude of self-sufficiency in each of our clients.

Volunteer Opportunities: Please contact Cathy Reid at creid@stecharities.org for current volunteer opportunities. There is always something someone can help with!

How 1si members can help your organization: Spread the word of our vast programs and services outlined on our website.

Sip, Savor, and Celebrate: “The SIP” Returns to Downtown New Albany on June 21, 2025

Award-winning tasting event brings back crowd-favorite cocktail showdown, live entertainment, and the best of Southern Indiana’s food and drink scene

NEW ALBANY, IN – One of Southern Indiana’s most anticipated summer events is back. The SIP returns to downtown New Albany on Saturday, June 21, 2025, offering a spirited celebration of local wineries, distilleries, breweries, and culinary creativity—plus the return of the show-stopping SIP Cocktail Showdown.

Named the 2024 recipient of the SoIN Tourism Award for Collaboration, The SIP is produced by New Albany Main Street, a nonprofit organization focused on revitalizing and reimagining New Albany’s historic downtown, midtown & uptown districts.

“This event is all about spotlighting local flavor and the incredible talent in our food and beverage scene,” said Robin Nance, Executive Director of New Albany Main Street. “It’s a chance to sip something new, support our local businesses, and soak in a day of energy, flavor, and community.”

Event-goers can expect:

  • Tastings from regional wineries, breweries, and distilleries

  • Dishes from local restaurants

  • Artists & Merchants selling unique goods

  • 50/50 Raffle plus other raffle prizes

  • Live entertainment and hourly demos throughout the day

  • And of course, the SIP Cocktail Showdown, sponsored by Heaven’s Door Ascension (KY Bourbon) & Heaven’s Door Revelation (Double Barrel Whiskey), where bartenders compete across two exciting phases:

    • Main Street Mix Off: Competitors serve their favorite cocktails to The SIP attendees for voting.

    • The SIP Showdown: A live mix-off, at the event, between the top two competitors judged by local experts and last year’s winner.

Tickets include a tasting glass and access to all on-site samples and activities. 

Proceeds from The SIP directly support New Albany Main Street programs, from small business support to community events that keep our districts thriving year-round.

For press inquiries, sponsorship details, or vendor applications, contact robin@newalbanymainstreet.org or visit www.newalbanymainstreet.org.

 


 

Follow Along

Party with a Purpose: Republic Bank hosts fifth annual Juneteenth Event to improve health outcomes in West Louisville

Since 2020, Republic and community partners have offered free life-saving screenings and educational resources to celebration attendees
 
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Jun. 7, 2025) – Today, Republic Bank & Trust Company (“Republic” or “the Bank”) hosted the fifth annual Juneteenth Event at the Republic Bank Foundation YMCA. Republic partnered with Kentucky African Americans Against Cancer (KAAAC) and other community organizations to offer free screenings and educational resources to improve the health of West Louisville residents.
“Republic Bank welcomes the opportunity to host this important community event each year in celebration of Juneteenth,” Republic Bank President and CEO Logan Pichel said. “We are committed to investing in West Louisville, improving the quality of life and enabling the communities we serve to thrive. Not only are we able to help Louisvillians access life-saving health screenings and resources, but today’s event offered everyone an opportunity to celebrate with the community.”
According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, with the risk for Black men being significantly higher. Moreover, a recent National Institutes of Health (NIH) study concluded that Black men have a higher prevalence of prostate cancer because of lower prostate exam screening rates.
Additionally, the average dental screening costs about $130, and according to the Kentucky Oral Health Coalition, poor oral health is linked to a number of health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. Further, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the highest prevalence of fatal oral cancers is among Black Americans, and they are three times more likely to have untreated cavities.
In addition to free prostate screenings provided by KAAAC, KARE Mobile offered complementary dental screenings for all attendees. Attendees also enjoyed activities, food and vendors operated by Black- and women-owned businesses.
“We’re thrilled to celebrate Juneteenth in West Louisville for the fifth year in a row,” Republic Bank Vice President, Inclusion and Diversity Ashley Duncan said. “We’re grateful for our community partners like KAAAC and Kare Mobile that are helping us reach underserved communities and save lives.”
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About Republic Bank
Republic Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”) is the parent company of Republic Bank & Trust Company (the “Bank”). The Bank currently has 47 banking centers in communities within five metropolitan statistical areas (“MSAs”) across five states: 22 banking centers located within the Louisville MSA in Louisville, Prospect, Shelbyville, and Shepherdsville in Kentucky, and Floyds Knobs, Jeffersonville, and New Albany in Indiana; six banking centers within the Lexington MSA in Georgetown and Lexington in Kentucky; eight banking centers within the Cincinnati MSA in Cincinnati and West Chester in Ohio, and Bellevue, Covington, Crestview Hills, and Florence in Kentucky; seven banking centers within the Tampa MSA in Largo, New Port Richey, St. Petersburg, Seminole, and Tampa in Florida; and four banking centers within the Nashville MSA in Franklin, Murfreesboro, Nashville and Spring Hill, Tennessee. In addition, Republic Bank Finance has one loan production office in St. Louis, Missouri. The Bank offers online banking at www.republicbank.com. The Company is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, and as of March 31, 2025, had approximately $7.1 billion in total assets. The Company’s Class A Common Stock is listed under the symbol “RBCAA” on the NASDAQ Global Select Market. 
Source: Republic Bancorp, Inc.

Media Contact
Courtney Eder, Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer
(502) 584-3600