Fintech regulations

Backers of lawsuits challenging federal charter and interest rate policies for nonbanks say states are sticking up for consumer protection. Others say the legal quagmire could slow efforts to improve the regulatory framework.

The agreement between Colorado authorities, marketplace lenders and banks offers a way to structure partnerships without triggering the wrath of state regulators.

All parts of the payments industry can preserve cash, but mandates may be necessary, says Moorwand's Luc Geuriane.

Close collaboration between leading payment innovators and regulators could help regulators better understand the direction the industry is headed, says Arkose Labs' Vanita Pandey.

The e-commerce leader’s return to the drawing board alleviates immediate concerns about its banking plans. But the company intends to reapply, and it will be harder for the industry to persuade policymakers to block industrial loan companies more broadly.

Florida and West Virginia recently joined four other states in setting up regulatory sandboxes that allow startups to test products with consumers without obtaining a license.

The OCC’s efforts to bring the technology into the financial mainstream could help people in underserved communities execute payments more securely.

Banks can capitalize on Amazon’s ambitions by teaming up to launch financial products and services aimed at coveted customer segments. But they should beware the legal and regulatory pitfalls.

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency is overstepping its authority in granting charters to fintechs and other companies that don’t take deposits.

A second-term Trump administration would likely continue its deregulatory efforts, focus on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's exit from conservatorship, and seek to facilitate fintech participation in the banking system.