Retail & Commercial

A number of community banks reported higher loan-loss provisions during the second quarter despite improved credit quality. For some, the burgeoning trend could be yet another sign that the industry is getting back on track.

Berkshire Hills in Pittsfield, Mass., reported higher quarterly earnings because of loan growth and gains from the purchase of 20 Bank of America branches.

Fifth Third Bancorp took a $17 million impairment charge on properties it owns because it no longer plans to build branches on them. More banks may need to do the same.

Susquehanna Bancshares in Lititz, Pa., reported a profit of $43.5 million in the second quarter, down 5% from a year ago, as mortgage and capital markets revenues fell sharply.

Texas Capital Bancshares in Dallas reported higher quarterly profit, fueled by an increase in the size and quality of its loan portfolio.

Banks can ensure that their oversight teams help to propel the whole company forward by creating a thorough governance structure and hiring overseers with experience in key business lines.

Pacific Continental in Eugene, Ore., is set to have its first new chief executive in a dozen years.

Business First Bancshares in Baton Rouge, La., has agreed to buy American Gateway Financial in Baton Rouge.

RealtyTrac's U.S. Home Equity & Underwater Report for the second quarter shows that 17% of all residential properties were seriously underwater.

JPMorgan Chase may need to pay more than the $4.5 billion it offered to settle investor claims over faulty mortgages packaged into securities before the U.S. housing crash, a report prepared for bond trustees shows.