Core Insights - Unity Bank has been recognized as one of the top-performing small banks in the United States by the Hovde Group, marking the third consecutive inclusion in the annual high-performer list, indicating sustained excellence in financial management and customer service [1][3] Group 1: Performance Recognition - The Hovde Group's 2025 report evaluates small banks with market capitalizations between $100 million and $1.5 billion, ranking them based on key financial metrics such as pre-tax pre-provision net revenue, efficiency ratios, loan and deposit growth, tangible book value growth, and employee productivity [2] - Unity Bank's recognition reflects the consistent strength of its strategy, employee dedication, and customer trust, reinforcing a focus on long-term, responsible growth [3] Group 2: Company Overview - Unity Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: UNTY) is the parent company of Unity Bank, which operates 21 branches across New Jersey and the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, providing community-focused commercial banking services including deposit accounts, loans, and digital services [5]

Core Concept - A certificate of deposit (CD) can be a valuable gift that promotes financial literacy and investment in a loved one's future, though it has certain limitations and considerations [1]. Gift Rules - CDs must generally be opened in the owner's name, making it impossible to gift a CD directly to another adult. However, custodial accounts for children can be established, such as UTMA or UGMA accounts [2]. - Funds in these accounts belong to the child, with UGMA accounts allowing withdrawals only when the child reaches a specific age, typically between 18 and 21, while UTMA accounts allow custodians to withdraw for the child's benefit [3]. When to Consider Gifting a CD - Gifting a CD can be suitable for occasions like birthdays, holidays, or high school graduations, and serves as a tool to teach children about money management [4][5]. Steps to Gift a CD - **Decide on the Amount**: Consider financial goals and the minimum deposit requirements, which can range from $100 to $10,000 [7]. - **Choose a Term Length**: CD terms can vary from one month to five years or longer, providing flexibility in managing the account [8]. - **Shop Around**: Research different banks for better terms and interest rates, rather than simply using the current bank [9][10]. - **Submit an Application**: Open the custodial account online or in person, providing necessary personal information and the child's details [11]. Pros and Cons of Gifting a CD - **Pros**: - Invests in the child's future, providing a financial head start [15]. - Offers a safe, guaranteed return with fixed interest rates [15]. - Predictable earnings help illustrate the concept of compound interest [15]. - **Cons**: - Loss of access to funds once deposited, with no ability to change the beneficiary [20]. - Potentially lower returns compared to other investment options [20]. - Requires careful timing for maturity dates to avoid penalties for early withdrawal [20].