Strategic planning

The country's six largest lenders are approaching their strongest capital position since 2013, leaving them with enough resources to pursue acquisitions, buy back shares or build from within. That has the chiefs of Canada's big banks weighing options.

HSBC Chief Executive Officer John Flint and Chairman Mark Tucker are considering shrinking the bank's global imprint even further as part of a plan set to be revealed over coming months, according to people with knowledge of the discussions.

Banks should ensure that their employees are nimble enough to react when unexpected situations arise, just as many had to do during the 2008 crisis.

Live Oak Bancshares took two years developing a loan for cemetery operators, a group that faces challenges with financing for property improvements.

The move provides a strong hint of the long-term succession plan CEO Leon Holschbach is putting in place.

The Alabama company, as part of an efficiency effort, is streamlining its organizational structure and creating a division focused on community engagement.

A debate is brewing about whether rising rates mean banks must pay more to hold onto deposits from city and county governments — and whether they are worth it. Some would say no question on both counts, while others say it all depends on the financial strategy of the client and how badly the bank needs that client.

The bank will spend an additional $1.4 billion on technology in 2018 to gain share and boost efficiency, executives said Tuesday. But they were peppered with questions about whether the big investment will yield a big financial return down the road.

A mix of tax sweeteners and a lower cost of living has prompted banks such as MUFG Americas, Northern Trust and Bank of the West to locate corporate-level jobs in Phoenix and surrounding areas.

The company will still use the building for its main office, but it will move its administrative staff to another building.