Opinions

Society has accepted central banks’ monopoly over creating and controlling the flow of money, but history and current technological innovations point to alternative approaches.

As the interest of fintech firms in the banking system brings a focus on the industrial bank charter once again to Washington, it is necessary to dispel a few misconceptions.

Having a leverage ratio as a backstop to risk-based capital requirements is sound, but the way it is currently calibrated is having a dramatic effect on financial markets.

Clearer criteria of what the Federal Reserve expects from directors will improve board oversight of banks, while also cutting down on misplaced demands on boards’ time and attention.

The solution supported by the largest institutions and some officials to what banks say is a market liquidity problem would only make matters worse.

Credit risk transfers have emerged as more than just a method for mitigating taxpayer exposure. They could be a key component of comprehensive housing finance reform.

The prospect of a lower corporate rate resulting from looming tax reform discussions may be a blessing for the industry, but it could be bittersweet for one particular group of bankers.

With the environment in Washington favoring deregulation, banks are pushing regulators to let them back into the payday lending game. They should know better.

Regardless of whether Congress could act, proponents don’t seem to fully appreciate the potential unintended consequences of a future without Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Efforts to repeal a Dodd-Frank mandate for lenders to report data on small-business applicants — including race and ethnicity — overlook the benefits of the provision to both communities of color and banks.