Today's News

WASHINGTON

The Justice Department on Monday sued a Nebraska bank, alleging that it charged Native Americans more than whites for for consumer loans. Page 2

Robert H. Swan, whose term as a director at the National Credit Union Administration, is suing the Clinton administration after rejecting its request that he step down. Page 2

INVESTMENT PRODUCTS

BHC Financial is just one of many investment services firms struggling to stanch the outflow of big-name clients resulting from the trend of banking acquisitions. Page 5

Wall Street is bullish on the banking industry's prospects in the insurance business. In a flurry of recent reports, analysts say banks are well-positioned to take market share from competitors. Page 8

REGIONAL BANKING

Wells Fargo executive Dudley Nigg expects to focus on the needs of small banks as president of the California Bankers Association, which has been battered for favoring big banks. Page 11

CREDIT/DEBIT/ATMs

In a twist on affinity cards, a Rhode Island bank has introduced an card that does not offer bonuses to the cardholder. The Citizens Bank product will generate contributions to charities selected by the cardholder. Page 12

COMMUNITY BANKING

Montana's effort to establish Swiss-style secret banking got a boost recently, with state officials giving the go-ahead to draft legislation on the issue. Page 14

The acquisition of a small Florida thrift is being delayed by a lawsuit filed by an ousted former chief executive. Officials expect to proceed with the buyout after the suit is resolved. Page 14

MORTGAGES

Industry insiders praised Ginnie Mae's plans to raise its profile on Wall Street and make it easier for lenders to originate loans for securitization. Page 16

TECHNOLOGY

Some small fish are swimming around the home banking pond these days, but industry observers say they might not last long against their wealthier, better-known rivals. Page 18

The National Automated Clearing House Association wants clear the way for banks to use its network to make payments initiated from consumers' PCs. Page 19

FINANCE

First of America's ongoing balance sheet restructuring helped lift its first quarter margin to 4.40% from 4.31% the previous quarter. Back page

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