NatWest is updating its chatbot, Cora, to make engagement more conversational, and Amex is working with the Canadian fintech Nuvei to promote bank-transfer payments to U.K. merchants.
Here's what's happening around the world this week:








While bankers generally seem to support a draft rule that would make larger companies eligible for SBA loans, smaller firms and Democratic lawmakers have panned the proposal.
Even as it also spends big on AI, Bank of America is sending a clear signal that human workers will still play an important role in tomorrow's workforce.
Sixteen percent of consumers took out a buy now/pay later loan in 2025, according to the Federal Reserve, as more low-income consumers turn to the short-term installment loans for everyday expenses such as groceries. That's creating a blind spot for banks that underwrite consumer credit.
Payment firms that also lend money said the Iran war, Canada trade war and other tariffs were already pressuring small businesses. Here's what some lenders are trying to do about it.
Scott Powell, who was hired by CEO Charlie Scharf to help fix the bank's regulatory problems, is moving into the chief risk officer role.
Federal banking agencies spent the year putting agentic AI outside their guidance. The attorneys general want Congress to move the opposite way.