Retail & Commercial

Problem technology credits drove down quarterly profits at Opus Bank in Irvine, Calif., which said it will pull back on tech lending even though that had become one of its most important niches.

Though several banks have begun automating financial advice for smaller investors, some are also providing more personalized services — such as counseling family members who have suddenly inherited a fortune.

Lakeland Financial Corp. in Warsaw, Ind., said its second-quarter profit rose 13% to $12.8 million on loan and deposit growth and higher net interest income.

First South Bancorp in Washington, N.C., has acquired a portfolio of mortgage servicing rights.

Once skeptical of robo advisers, retail banks are starting to embrace them. Several big banks are getting into the business, mostly by forming partnerships with fintech companies. Smaller banks are expected to soon follow suit.

B of A says customers are becoming inundated with wallet options, so they are holding out on building their own.

EverBank Financial, the largest bank based in Florida by deposits, is exploring a sale after receiving interest from a potential suitor, according to people familiar with the matter.

Regulators sought to limit improper contact between lenders and appraisers, but policies of the two mortgage giants encourage the kind of practices that contributed to the housing crisis.

Despite charging off millions of dollars of energy loans, the parent company of San Francisco-based MUFG Union Bank rode higher affiliate fees, securities gains and expense cutbacks to quarterly profit growth.

Regulators are removing several items from call reports, including details on troubled-debt restructurings and loss-share portfolios. Bankers are pleased, but the absence of certain data could frustrate outsiders.