Commercial lending

U.S. Bancorp in Minneapolis on Wednesday reported lower profits, thanks to higher costs and further deterioration in the company’s energy portfolio.

Signature Bank in New York reported record profits in the first quarter as strong loan, asset and deposit growth more than offset increased expenses and deterioration in its portfolio of taxi-medallion loans.

After another disappointing quarter, Comerica is promising big changes in its ongoing quest to improve returns to shareholders. It appears to be considering all options, including selling off business lines and perhaps even merging with another institution.

Several small and midsize banks generated large year-over-year loan growth despite a belief by some outsiders that a slowdown was looming. Bankers may have to spend coming months assuring investors that they can keep booking loans while adequately managing risk.

Comerica reported a steep decline in first-quarter profits as weak energy prices forced the Dallas company to sharply boost its reserves for loan losses.

WASHINGTON — Several Democratic senators are calling for the Government Accountability Office to investigate whether financial technology companies are properly regulated.

A partnership with a firm that makes consumer loans through Home Depot stores is exceeding all expectations at Regions Financial. The company is counting on arrangements with two other alternative lenders to further drive loan growth.

The Memphis, Tenn., company's forecast for the remainder of the year calls for cost saves from a branch-reduction effort that's gaining momentum as online and mobile banking grow and monthly visits to branches plummet.

First Horizon National in Memphis, Tenn., reported improved quarterly earnings that reflected higher revenue.

Regions Financial in Birmingham, Ala., posted a double-digit gain in its first-quarter profit as strong revenue growth more than offset continued deterioration in its energy-loan portfolio.