Retail & Commercial

Since consumers have been able to lock in historically low rates, the monthly payment on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has been within reach for most borrowers. That could change with a rise in interest rates.

Flagstar Bancorp in Troy, Mich., has picked Andrew Ottaway for the newly created position of managing director of lending.

The $1 billion-asset Charter said in a press release Thursday that it will pay $58.8 million, or $20.50 a share for the $369 million-asset parent of Community Bank of the South.

The $140 million-asset company said in a press release Thursday that Martin May would also become its president.

The price hike represents a significant shift in strategy for the company, which has frequently touted its pro-consumer bona fides.

Huntington Bancshares in Columbus, Ohio, has brought on industry veteran Tom Wirth to fill the newly created position of auto finance product and strategy director.

The CFPB took action Thursday against a nationwide credit reporting company and its owner for allegedly illegally obtaining consumer credit reports.

ChoiceOne Bank in Sparta, Mich., has appointed Bradley Henion chief lending officer.

The small bank was the only institution to bid on a contract to process cash payments to the Illinois Department of Revenue. Executives are eager to collect fees without feeling compelled to make loans or hold deposits for the controversial industry.

A bank goes pink to attract women, Blythe Masters sticks with her startup despite a big Barclays offer, Sallie Krawcheck reflects on life as an entrepreneur, Ana Botin talks strategy and Margaret Keane offers leadership advice. Plus some Barbie news.