More community banks have begun offering SBA loans nationwide, a smart strategy given improving demand and double-digit premiums in the secondary loan market. Banks moving into far-flung territories have determined that they need highly targeted strategies to be successful — as well as methods for minimizing risk.

David Malone, former CEO of Community Bank in Pasadena, Calif., was appointed to BBCN's board, which expanded to 11 members.

The 2009 law that restricts a range of fees and practices has become the devil you know for the credit card industry.

When women reject or reframe career-limiting assumptions, they are able to get ahead at their jobs without sacrificing having a family.

Community 1st Bank (CFBN) of Auburn, Calif., shuffled its executive team on Thursday after re-appointing Robert C. Haydon, the bank president and chief executive officer, as board chairman.

First Savings Bank (FSFG) in Clarksville, Ind., is switching charters as part of a broader plan to expand its commercial banking business.

Banks have tried to change tellers' skill sets without changing the type of people they hire. They need to recruit sales-minded employees — and incentivize them with better pay and clearer career paths.

Hampton Roads Bankshares (HMPR) is launching a marine financing unit for its subsidiary Shore Bank.

Wellesley Bancorp (WEBK) in Wellesley, Mass., has appointed Ralph Letner as chief lending officer and senior vice president of its bank subsidiary.

American Banker's Index of Banking Activity posted its second-highest reading in March, buoyed by renewed consumer demand, better weather and banker optimism.

Eight community banks have transferred their shares to a new trading platform operated by OTC Markets Group in a bid to increase visibility for their stocks.

The First Bancorp (FNLC) in Damariscotta, Maine, announced that its chief executive is retiring early next year and will be replaced by its chief operating officer.

Solera National Bancorp (SLRK) in Lakewood, Colo., said it is willing to negotiate with an activist investor on filling some board seats.

The Federal Reserve Board has terminated a cease-and-desist order against Central Federal (CFBK) in Worthington, Ohio.

The Puerto Rican company is looking to shore up its capital levels after the FDIC invalidated about 40% of its Tier 1 capital. Management will have plenty of challenges as it looks to fill the capital hole.

Meridian Bancorp (EBSB), the newly formed bank holding company for East Boston Savings Bank, could raise at least $233 million and as much as $364 million in its upcoming public offering.

Banks' have a new worry on the payday lending front besides the government's Operation Choke Point: lawsuits filed by consumers. Eleven financial institutions been hit with private suits that accuse them of helping online payday lenders break the law.

Shore Bank, a subsidiary of Hampton Roads Bankshares (HMPR) in Virginia Beach, Va., is opening its third branch on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Second Curve Capital in New York cashed out of two bank holdings in the first quarter.

CommunityOne Bancorp (COB) in Asheboro, N.C., plans to sell stock it issued the Treasury Department as part of the Troubled Asset Relief Program.