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Kraken's limited account with the Fed raises as many questions as it answers; bank executives worry about the war; Nubank hires a TikTok executive; and M&T CEO Rene Jones joins the Leaders series

Kraken Financial's receipt of a limited Federal Reserve master account is leading some industry observers to question whether the approval creates a new avenue for master account-seekers or whether it's a preview of the proposed "skinny" account.

In a sternly written footnote, federal Judge Steven Merryday said the SEC's refusal to release information on its penalty calculations appears to "countenance duplicity, gamesmanship, neglect, insouciance" or worse.

At an industry conference Tuesday, bankers said that an extended war with Iran will result in adverse economic conditions, including inflation.

Kim Farrell, former global head of creators for TikTok, joins the Brazil-based neobank to develop its international brand strategy as it expands into the U.S.

Dean Bass, who served as CEO at two Houston community banks, plans to acquire Lone Star Bank in a deal expected to close this summer.

The online lender, known for being an AI pioneer, says it wants a national bank license simply for efficiency's sake.

Visa is using AI agents to streamline payment disputes, while Mastercard launched "digital executives" for small businesses.

Stan Smith is founder and CEO of Gradient AI, a provider of customized artificial intelligence solutions for the insurance industry. The company's full-cycle management platforms help improve loss ratios and profitability by predicting underwriting and claims risks with heightened accuracy and reduce quote turnaround times and claim expenses through intelligent automation.

With nearly 30 years of experience growing AI and technology organizations, Stan's leadership has resulted in proven AI solutions that yield solid financial performance for Gradient AI's customer portfolio, as well as improved treatment and outcomes for individuals.