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Boston-based Eastern Bankshares is focused on organic growth, but it would "evaluate the opportunity" for M&A if a deal presents itself, its CEO said Friday. The comments came four days after an activist investor criticized the bank's recent M&A transactions.

There are regulatory and technology efforts to reform international payments, but it's a multifaceted, long process. Swift, The Federal Reserve, and fintechs like Wise and Revolut are pushing potential solutions. Here's what banks need to know.

Eric J. Ellman is the President of the National Consumer Reporting Association (NCRA), a trade association of highly-regulated mortgage reporting and tenant screening companies that provide consumer reports and credit reports to lenders and landlords.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics released its latest Consumer Price Index reading Friday morning, showing inflation rose by 0.3% in September, slightly below August's pace. The report also found core inflation steady at 3.0%, even as shelter costs eased and gasoline prices spiked.

Disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein continued to receive privileged access to financial services well after his crimes were revealed. This exposes a troubling side of the U.S. banking industry that deserves closer examination.

Rachel Farris, CPA, is the founder of TaxStackAI.com, a company dedicated to helping small accounting firms modernize through AI-powered tools. She also leads her own accounting practice, where she focuses on strategic tax planning and advisory services. She is a recognized thought leader in the accounting profession, frequently presenting at national conferences, contributing to podcasts, and leading continuing education sessions for accounting professionals. She has been recognized as one of America's Top 200 CPAs and named among the 40 Under 40 Top Accounting and Tax Professionals. She is passionate about inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in accounting and driving innovation to modernize the profession.

Some customers reportedly complained about getting locked out of their accounts after signing up for the bank's new Strata Elite credit card. "We feel like we have done the right thing for all of our good customers," Pam Habner, Citi's head of U.S. branded cards, said Tuesday.

The Long Island-based bank hasn't been profitable in eight quarters, but executives maintain that it's on the right path, citing more loan book diversity, lower expenses and an improved margin.

From baby boomers' family needs to the fearlessness of Gen Z, three bank executives discussed the work habits of different age groups at American Banker's Most Powerful Women in Banking conference.

Alex Mechling, JD, serves as Director of Go-To-Market Strategy and Carrier Management at Paychex Insurance Agency. A benefits consulting leader with over 12 years in the field, he holds deep expertise in employee benefits, strategic planning, and digital health solutions. His professional background spans startups, private firms, and publicly traded companies, where he is recognized for driving growth through cross-functional alignment and talent development.