BankThink

Alternative lenders provide a necessary service to small business owners—but some loans carry excessive costs. Financial innovation and greater competition can help bring prices down.

ECB Holds Rates Steady; Rackoff Decision Reversed

A new digital divide is emerging for the millions of Americans without a bank account or who pay for goods and services with cash—and technology will be key to bridging it.

Community banks consider customer service their big advantage against larger competitors. But that strategy may not be working.

Some cyber-risk insurance policies could prove insufficient in the event of large-scale attack.

Turning the Screws on BNP Paribas

No organization is immune to data breaches–especially small businesses without access to the same resources as larger merchants, requiring a vigorous security program that includes EMV and other protections at the point of sale.

A proposed bill would allow banks to receive a one-time tax credit for charged-off consumer debt. Banks would then donate the debt to non-profits dedicated to helping consumers repay their loans without resorting to litigation or charging interest.

E-commerce and payments companies are edging into the small-business lending territory long dominated by banks. If banks want to stay relevant, they need a simpler, speedier lending process.

BNP Enlists Government; Interest-Only Home Equity Lines Endangered