Jon Prior

The biggest lenders seem to have handled the corporate rush for cash heading into the economic shutdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic. But their ability to collect is as uncertain as the economic outlook for the next year.

Though hopeful for a second-half bounceback in the economy, JPMorgan Chase is prepared for 20% unemployment, lackluster GDP and losses in its loan portfolio that could reach tens of billions of dollars.

Bankers say they’re still trying to figure out if the Fed’s complex loan-buying vehicles will help them cater to the needs of midsize commercial customers hammered by the economic shock from the coronavirus outbreak.

Firms that spread big-dollar deposits to community banks have seen a rush in demand as small businesses seek emergency loans to weather the coronavirus pandemic.

Banks, under pressure to act hastily, began taking applications for government aid to small businesses hit hard by the coronavirus outbreak. But narrow eligibility rules at some banks angered business owners and lawmakers.

In supporting the economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, lenders have a chance to restore public trust damaged in the last financial crisis. But they face tough decisions on dividend cuts, executive pay, furloughs and deeper changes to their business model in the process.

Weak demand for oil and gas, brought on by the economic fallout of the coronavirus outbreak, has raised concerns of energy firms missing loan payments or even going bankrupt. Here’s how banks and regulators are trying to get ahead of potential problems.

Draw-downs on C&I credit more than quadrupled in a seven-day period ended March 25. Lenders may try to rein them in if the crisis drags out, but legal precedent isn’t on their side.

With seven in 10 rooms sitting empty amid the coronavirus outbreak, hotel and banking groups are urging policymakers to open up the Term Asset-Backed Securities Loan Facility.

Some industry observers are calling on the Treasury Department to bring back the Small Business Lending Fund to help small companies stay afloat during the coronavirus pandemic and get back on their feet once the crisis passes.