Law and regulation

While the Wells Fargo scandal might offer marketing opportunities for community banks, there is concern about regulatory fallout that fails to distinguish between large and small banks.

A strategy to reinvigorate black-owned financial institutions would not only bring hope to the black community but would also be an inspiration for other minorities who seek to be more effectively served by financial institutions that understand their needs.

U.S. Bancorp has agreed to settle a lawsuit that claimed it neglected to maintain foreclosed properties in Southern California after the 2008 financial crisis.

Wells Fargo Chief Executive John Stumpf's two disastrous appearances on Capitol Hill have fueled calls for him to resign — and many analysts are wondering whether the embattled executive will be able to keep his job.

Julie Stackhouse, head of supervision at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, discusses the insights that resonated at the regulator's recent community banking conference — some encouraging for the future of small financial institutions, others less so.

A bipartisan group of House lawmakers sent a letter to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau on Thursday expressing concern about the agency's proposal to rein in payday lending and other short-term credit, warning it could hamper credit availability.

Since Wells Fargo's settlement three weeks ago with federal regulators over charges thousands of employees opened up millions of fake accounts, the bank's troubles have only grown worse. Lawsuits by former employees have been filed, the bank's chief executive was subject to two disastrous hearings on Capitol Hill and lawmakers are opening calling to break the bank up. But it is the multiple investigations into the bank which may prove to be its toughest challenge. While some relate to the phony accounts, others touch on different issues — and they have been growing. Following is a look at investigations, recent settlements and other actions taken since the news broke in early September.

WASHIINGTON -- The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. on Friday published its annual summary of insured deposits U.S. banks and thrifts.

Restoring consumer confidence in financial services won't be easy after the latest banking brouhaha, but the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau can help by proactively holding all mortgage loan officers to the same federal licensing standard.

Strong home sales are boosting originations of Federal Housing Administration loans and opening the door for first-time buyers — developments that could portend the mortgage insurance agency receiving a positive report from auditors this fall.