Regulation

SunTrust Banks (STI) is refusing to participate in a self-regulatory organization's inquiry into its online advertising practices, prompting the group to refer the Atlanta bank to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Top judges are jumping into the massive regulatory overhaul of the way that banks and third parties sue borrowers over unpaid bills. New York has proposed comprehensive reforms, while Maryland has modified its controversial "rocket dockets."

The government-sponsored enterprises remain profitable, but executives are raising fresh concerns about their ability to withstand a recession because of restrictions on raising capital.

Federal Reserve Board Chair Janet Yellen said Thursday that she has asked the White House to appoint a community banker to the central bank's board.

Bankers have complained that the federal government's crackdown on their relationships with payday lenders and other merchants has gone too far, but Justice officials said in a blog post that banks that abet fraudsters' use of the payment system should be punished.

Two of the largest consumer debt buyers on Thursday agreed to halt lawsuits against borrowers and pay fines to settle allegations they violated New York law in pursuing debtors.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will pay the U.S. Treasury Department a combined $10.2 billion by June 30, an amount reflecting the profits the U.S.-owned mortgage financiers reported for the first quarter.

Colorado lawmakers on Wednesday passed a bill to establish a financial services co-operative to serve licensed marijuana dispensaries in the state.

No company should be designated as a systemically important financial institution before the Financial Stability Oversight Council knows what "more stringent" prudential standards the Federal Reserve will apply to it.

The Financial Stability Oversight Council released its annual report to Congress on Wednesday detailing steps regulators have taken in implementing financial reform and what remains on their agenda. It also specified their top concerns, including some threats that could topple the financial system. Following are their biggest worries.