Cap Markets

Swelling capital levels, tax cuts and changing attitudes about post-crisis regulation could encourage bigger banks to issue the one-time payouts to reward shareholders and better manage their returns.

The company, which raised $23 million through a private placement, had a 6.97% total capital ratio at Dec. 31.

The Detroit company recorded an 11% increase in car loans and leases originated during the fourth quarter, as well as a jump in yields. Ally appears to be benefiting from Wells Fargo's substantial retrenchment in auto lending.

Louisiana credit union says secondary capital influx helped fuel earnings.

The bank said it plans to use proceeds from the placement to expand its operations.

The Texas company will gain four branches and $160 million in loans after the acquisition closes.

The private-equity firms, which invested in a predecessor to Union Bankshares in May 2010, sold their shares for a total of $301 million.

Ameris would gain 24 Atlanta-area branches in the $406 million deal.

Marathon International Bank would target the Ethiopian community with specific advertising and educational programs.

NewDominion, which has completed an improbable turnaround, is the last community bank based in Charlotte, N.C.