Community banks exist to serve their customers and communities, not efficiency ratio-obsessed market observers.

A Connecticut man has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for his role in a mortgage fraud scheme that cost financial institutions millions of dollars.

Strong loan and asset growth powered the Internet banking company BofI Holding (BOFI) to record profits in the quarter that ended Dec. 31.

Santander Bank, formerly Sovereign Bank, has launched a rewards-heavy credit card and made other creative retail moves in the U.S. as it tries to establish an identity beyond that of the foreign-owned bank with the tricky name.

A little-known dissident investor wants the company to sell. Another shareholder is comfortable giving management them more time to become profitable. A key issue involves the company's deferred-tax asset.

Cascade Bancorp (CACB) in Bend, Ore., reported lower quarterly profits as merger costs drove up noninterest expenses.

Bankers had more optimism about market conditions in December, fueled by accelerated activity in commercial lending and improved loan pricing.

PrivateBancorp (PVTB) in Chicago has continued its trend of hiring former employees of LaSalle Bank, this time hiring a group who will lead the company in advising other banks.

MADISON, Wis. -- In a strong sign that the U.S. economy continues to recover, credit union lending outpaced savings in 2013.

Bank of Georgetown in Washington, D.C., is moving its corporate headquarters and opening an adjacent branch.

Eagle Bancorp Montana (EBMT) in Helena, Mont., has named Laura Clark as its chief financial officer.

Add PrivateBancorp to the list of financial institutions that have managed to grow commercial loans organically and are eyeing acquisitions that would improve liquidity in a rising-rate environment.

Anchor Bancorp (ANCB) in Lacey, Wash., is facing pressure from an activist investor to sell itself.

Community banks reported increased lending in the fourth quarter. Experts believe loans could continue to grow this year, but at a marginal rate.

Westfield Bank in Massachusetts plans to offer its customers wealth management and insurance services through a new partnership with Charter Oak Insurance and Financial Services.

The Treasury Department expects to receive $20.6 million in proceeds from its latest auction of Troubled Asset Relief Program shares.

Simmons First (SFNC) in Pine Bluff, Ark., is reportedly in talks to buy Delta Trust & Banking in Little Rock, Ark.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. took action against eight companies and lifted orders against eleven banks in December, according to its latest monthly roundup of enforcement actions.