Today's News

WASHINGTON

The secretary of the Treasury said the administration would support tax- free retirement savings plans for low-income workers. Page 2

INVESTMENT PRODUCTS

Small banks say the service they get from suppliers of investment products isn't what it used to be. Page 10

Jack Ablin, the chief investment officer at Barnett Capital Advisors, has left to join the investment management company at Colonial BankGroup. Page 10

CARDS

Money Access Service, operator of the MAC electronic funds transfer network, is bolstering its presence in Michigan. Page 12

COMMUNITY

After four years away, Coastal Bank has returned to Maine's largest city. Page 16

SPECIAL REPORT

To the public, the word "megabank" conjures a futuristic image of a colossal and dominant institution. But to executives at these emerging entities, the term connotes unparalleled opportunities for expansion. Meanwhile, industry watchers question whether such large organizations are manageable. Supplement

CORPORATE FINANCE

A new loan for Bridge Information Systems shows how lead lenders are turning the syndication process on its head to cater to institutional investors. Page 18

MORTGAGES

Republicans on the Senate Banking Committee described why they are wary of the administration's request to raise the FHA loan ceiling. Page 19

TECHNOLOGY

Fiserv is enjoying healthy appreciation in its stock price and achieving landmark increases in revenues and customers. Page 22

National Commerce and BellSouth said they will cross-promote Internet access and on-line banking in the Southeast. Page 23

MARKET MONITOR

Many regional bank stocks are feeling the wrath of investors impatient with the reluctance of management to sell. Page 33

The economy is still generating jobs at a strong clip, but signs of a slowdown are growing. Page 33

WEEKLY REPORT: SMALL BUSINESS

PNC has introduced two small-business checking accounts, one for customers with few monthly transactions and another for those with many. Page 20