Retail & Commercial

Median growth among small U.S. lenders was 1.2% for the third quarter. Bankers are hoping lower interest rates will boost demand, but borrowers aren't jumping.

Banks like Fifth Third have increased security measures at their branches, while some potential robbers are turning to cybercrime.

St. Paul, Minnesota-based Bremer Financial agreed to sell for $1.4 billion in cash and stock. It followed a yearslong legal battle between the bank and its largest shareholder that ended with a settlement this year.

Andy Sieg, head of Citi's wealth business, says retention bonuses are part of his growth strategy.

The top five community banks averaged a return on average assets of 6.27% as of June 30.

The Dallas bank's new CEO, Thomas Shafer, served in top roles at a number of banks that were subsequently acquired before he stepped away from the industry in 2022.

The Columbus, Ohio-based regional launched Lift Local Business in October 2020 with a $25 million ceiling. Four years and $133 million later, the program is still going strong.

The Federal Reserve released additional information about its periodic review of its monetary policy strategy, tools and communications framework; TD Bank Group announced Michelle Myers will succeed Anita O'Dell as global chief auditor; Provident Financial Services will expand its commercial lending team; and more in this week's banking news roundup.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Director Rohit Chopra said the FICO credit-scoring model has drawbacks in price, predictiveness and market competition, and stakeholders should develop a more open-sourced model that uses artificial intelligence.

Analysts say lenders' shares could rally on deregulation, lighter tax burdens and a resurgence of M&A. Declining interest rates and lower loan losses could further bolster bottom lines and attract investor interest.