American Banker Research's Index of Banking Activity, which had the lowest reading in its nearly four-year history in January, revealed that issues in oil-producing states are contributing to decreases in commercial loan applications and approvals.

Research shows the more consumers interact with branch staff, the more they dislike the brand. To improve their image, banks need to emulate Apple and focus on every customer experience detail — in tech and in person.

Loans outpacing GDP and the expressed optimism of CEOs on recent earnings calls are among the signs that growth figures are too good to be true.

Unity Bancorp in Clinton, N.J., has bought its corporate headquarters building for $4.12 million.

The San Rafael, Calif., company has stayed at roughly the same asset size for six years now, even though it has the capacity and desire to become much larger. The reasons speak to the competitiveness among lenders and the fickle nature of bank M&A.

First Resource Bank in Exton, Pa., has redeemed its remaining preferred shares tied to the Small Business Lending Fund.

About a fifth of regional banks look at their efficiency ratios as they set executive compensation. Ongoing revenue challenges and investor pressure could push more boards to consider efficiency — or simple cost-cutting — to determine pay for high-level officers.

Tidelands Bancshares in Mount Pleasant, S.C., has been declared in default on $18.3 million of trust-preferred securities.

Ginnie Mae needs more, and better-paid, staff to keep up with growing risks on nonbank seller/servicers, the watchdog agency head said.

Midwest BankCentre in Lemay, Mo., has agreed to buy Bremen Bank & Trust in Hazelwood, Mo.

Old National Bancorp in Evansville, Ind., has given its chief executive Bob Jones the added title of chairman.

Three-fourths of House lawmakers signed a bipartisan letter that calls on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to take more steps to carve out community banks and credit unions from onerous regulations. But will it make a difference?

BB&T in Winston-Salem, N.C., has increased the roles of two executives as part of an effort to focus more on digital projects.

FSB Community Bankshares in Fairport, N.Y., plans to convert from partial mutual ownership to a fully stock-owned bank.

The $9.6 billion-asset bank claims that applications for the loans can be completed in two minutes or less, or in three minutes for loans that require a Small Business Administration guarantee.

Standard Bank & Trust in Hickory Hills, Ill., has hired an investment bank to explore a possible sale, according to Crain's Chicago Business.

Two executives and two directors have resigned from Community Bank of the Bay in Oakland, Calif.

Republicans currently hold a 54 — 46 advantage over Democrats in the Senate, making the GOP grip on the Senate precarious at best. With the election a little less than eight months away, Republicans also have more vulnerable seats up for reelection, leaving many analysts speculating the Democrats will retake the chamber. Following are the races bankers need to watch.

Royal Bancshares of Pennsylvania, which spent three years righting the ship, is ready to poach bankers and clients who might be upset with recent consolidation in Royal's home state. While it could look at deals, Royal is primarily hoping to steal market share with a private-banking model, loan production offices and technology upgrades.

We are reminded frequently that policies with the best intentions often do not reach their intended recipients and at times lead to previously unforeseen issues.