Today's News

John V. Rindlaub, CEO of Seattle-based Seafirst Bank, has built a model of customer service that parent company BankAmerica will use to fight Wamu in California. Page 5

WASHINGTON

International bank regulators were warned that year-2000 computer problems will cause a global recession unless extraordinary steps are taken now. Page 4

REGIONAL

The Boatmen's executive whom NationsBank made president of its St. Louis bank has quit to run a community bank in town. Page 7

CORPORATE FINANCE

Eight years after nearly sinking under the weight of the commercial real estate crisis, BankBostonthis time is proceeding with caution. Page 8

COMMUNITY

The FDIC is advising the Midwest's fastest-growing community banks to boost loan-loss reserves or reduce their volume of construction and commercial real estate loans. Page 10

Connecticut bankers are pushing for a state law that would exempt financial services firms from paying taxes on mortgage interest income. Page 10

INVESTMENT PRODUCTS

Financial services companies are increasingly using custom publications to strengthen ties with their customers. Page 11

MORTGAGES

Canadian banks are planning to expand the securitization of residential mortgages. Page 13

DIGITAL FRONTIERS

SMART CARDS: The federal government could turn out to be their best American friend. Page 15

TECHNOLOGY

First Union's chief executive was elected chairman of the Bankers Roundtable's technology division, the Banking Industry Technology Secretariat. Page 18

MARKETS

Banks pulled back broadly as investors booked gains from Monday's run-up on merger plans by Citicorp and Travelers Group. Back page