Opinions

The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network is seeking to create a better-defined standard for effective AML compliance programs and is considering whether to impose formal requirements that banks assess their laundering risk.

With only a fraction of the funds allocated being used, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said the central bank is considering tweaks to the middle-market rescue program in an appeal to lenders wary of taking on added risk.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have been slammed for planning an additional refinancing charge to cover COVID-related losses, but the head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency defended the policy in House testimony.

The central bank said it would keep interest rates at current levels through at least to help the U.S. economy recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

The agency finally detailed how it may implement congressional requirements to collect information on credit to small businesses. Lenders below certain asset thresholds and that make few business loans could be off the hook.

Two board members for the credit union regulator spoke during a NAFCU event, highlighting liquidity issues, plans for new departments at the agency and more.

With the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency considering a special charter for payments firms, a state regulator group said large money transmitters can opt for the “one company, one exam” program next year.

The agency’s insurance fund dipped below its statutory minimum last quarter thanks to the rapid rise in deposits, but officials say it should bounce back without a hike in premiums.

With the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency considering a special charter for payments firms, a state regulator group said large money transmitters can opt for the “one company, one exam” program next year.

Legislation favorable to the industry would be unlikely to pass in a divided Congress, but the biggest benefit for banks and credit unions of Republicans' retaining control of the chamber would be defending against the disruption of a Democratic blue wave.