Jim Dobbs

Elevated interest rates, economic uncertainty and financial sector fragility exposed by recent bank failures threaten to stunt lending activity.

The volume of bank acquisitions — either by credit unions or community banks — has dropped considerably so far in 2023. Experts, including prospective buyers, cite a combination of ongoing regulatory and economic pressures.

The Tennessee bank confirmed in its earnings report that the deal, already delayed by several months amid heightened regulatory scrutiny, likely would not close by a May 27 deadline. No new target date has been set.

The Pittsburgh bank grew its deposits in the first quarter, even as the failure of two other regionals sparked outflows across the industry. But PNC executives warned Friday that rising funding costs could continue to eat into its net interest margin.

Lofty fertilizer and equipment costs are forecast to cut into profits this year. Farmers are expected to seek loans to cover higher expenses, but bankers are likely to be cautious in granting credit given recessionary pressures.

The American Bankers Association's latest Credit Conditions Index points to a drop in lending and a rise in loan delinquencies through the second and third quarters.

Police identified the gunman as Connor Sturgeon, a bank employee who used a rifle to kill four people inside the bank. He was later killed by police, according to the authorities.

Rising vacancy levels, soaring interest rates and weaknesses exposed by recent bank failures have analysts and investors worried about banks' outsized exposure to high-rise office, apartment and retail properties.

On the anniversary of the Center for Disease Control's mask guidance, banks and credit unions are striking a balance between health and branch security.

Stripping out the 25 largest banks by U.S. assets, Federal Reserve data showed the industry gained back $5.8 billion of deposits.