Today's News

Consumer loan delinquencies rose in the fourth quarter in most major lending categories, the American Bankers Association said. Page 16

WASHINGTON

House Banking Committee leaders warned that Congress may regulate hedge funds if banks are unable to better manage the risk of lending to these highly leveraged firms. Page 2

NATIONAL/GLOBAL

Charles Coltman, First Union's vice chairman in charge of international strategic planning, has resigned. Page 4

COMMUNITY/REGIONAL

Insiders at smaller regional banks are snapping up their banks' stock. Page 12

INVESTMENT PRODUCTS

The mutual fund industry and its regulator are taking steps to strengthen the role of independent directors, but experts are split about whether the changes will be meaningful. Page 14

TECHNOLOGY

Stratus Computer has been focusing on the financial services industry since Ascend Communications bought it in August. Page 15

DIGITAL FRONTIERS

ON-LINE BANKING: Wachovia is set to test Transpoint's Internet bill presentment service. Page 18

MORTGAGES

Fidelity Investments and GMAC Mortgage launched a program that lets Fidelity brokerage customers use their assets as security for mortgage loans from the GM unit. Page 20

MARKETS

St. Paul Bancorp's shares jumped nearly 5% in value in a down market after a major stockholder stepped up his campaign to force the Chicago thrift company to sell. Back page

Special Report: MORTGAGE TECHNOLOGY

Home lenders are still spending enthusiastically on technology, but the focus now is on generating business rather than cutting costs. Meanwhile, competition in the origination-software market remains tough. Pullout section

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