PayThink

The Fed’s research raises more questions than it answers, among them: Is the researcher right when he says the great bankers he interviewed could run a bank successfully anywhere, anytime?

Banks are incessantly lobbying the CFTC to hold off on cross-border derivatives rules until other countries write their own regulations. But that could take longer than the next crisis.

M&A consolidation, improved portfolio performance and legislation leveling the playing field provide incentive for midsize banks to relaunch card programs.

A dubious story about double-charging in Marks & Spencer, the retail home of the British middle classes, is worth examining to make sure similar misconceptions don’t spread in the U.S.

Research indicates education from a counselor who helps homeowners understand the terms of their mortgages should be part of the formula for sustainable homeownership.

John Bogush, EVP with Alexander Proudfoot, explains how an emphasis on human cpital can pay off for credit unions.

There was a striking contrast about credit unions on full display last week that might be best summed up as "There are a lot more than one way to grow."

The constant pillorying of banks can hardly inspire public confidence in them. Regulators should focus, instead, on peer comparisons and the encouragement of effective policies and procedures.

A recap of the informed opinions (and the discussions they generated) on BankThink and AmericanBanker.com this week.

Rising rates can expose lurking dangers across the industry.