Slashing capital requirements for the largest banks shows where the Federal Reserve's priorities lie — and it's not with community banks. This will make it even harder for small banks to compete with their larger peers.

Berkshire Hills Bancorp and Brookline Bancorp are eyeing a September closing for their merger of equals, to be followed by a phased rollout of the new Beacon Bank & Trust brand.

Coastal Community Bank reported smaller profits in the second quarter as it prepared for a growth spurt. "We think we're winning the right business," said CEO Eric Sprink.

High interest rates and tough economic conditions played a role in the credit woes that overcame BayFirst Financial's small-dollar lending effort.

Deal for Clay County Savings Bank leaves Verimore Bank primed to add market share in a fast-growing Kansas City neighborhood

Columbus-based Northwest Bancshares finalized its acquisition of Penns Woods Bancorp; Barclays becomes the second U.K.-based bank to leave the Zero Banking Alliance; BankUnited announces the appointment of Michael Mitchell as executive vice president, director of branch banking; and more in this week's banking news roundup.

The San Antonio-based company plans to remain in state borders, but sees opportunity for growth in major markets.

Growing loans was a tall order in 2024, but banks that could do just that were able to outperform their peers.

Eastern Financial Corp. provides a rich source of low-cost deposits that the larger Mercantile Bancorp can put to work in funding its much stronger loan growth.

A July pickup in activity is just a start, experts say. The banking industry's drive for scale and greater efficiency is expected to drive a renewed wave of consolidation, pushing the institution count lower.