Today's News

The market for initial public offerings picked up steam after a sluggish January. Companies raised $7.3 billion in the sector during the first quarter, compared with $5.8 billion a year earlier. Page 13

WASHINGTON

Industry officials support a Fed proposal to broaden the securities powers U.S. banks may exercise overseas, but want the agency to do more to keep them competitive abroad. Page 2

A Florida appeals court rejected a bid by the banking industry to restrict expansion by state-chartered credit unions. Page 3

REGIONAL

some of the nation's largest banking companies are offering full-scale programs to help employees juggle work and family life. Page 6

COMMUNITY

Allegiant Bancorp's stock price has soared in recent weeks amid speculation that the Clayton, Mo., company is for sale. Page 8

MORTGAGES

Intent on increasing homeownership to a record 67.5% by the next presidential election, the Clinton administration is jockeying to expand the FHA mortgage insurance program. Page 12

INVESTMENT PRODUCTS

The president and chief operating officer of Charles Schwab's brokerage unit has left the San Francisco company. Page 15

DIGITAL FRONTIERS

ON-LINE BANKING: One of the pioneers of banking by kiosk is promoting a new place to conduct video-conferencing: the privacy of the home. Page 18

WEEKLY REPORT: INTERNATIONAL

Bank of New York is making its mark internationally through a host of solid but unglamorous businesses. Page 10