OCC Rolls Back Rules to Fast-Track Bank Merger Approvals

2026-17823, Unsafe or Unsound Practices, Matters Requiring Attention

The OCC and FDIC are rolling out a new rule starting November 2, 2026, that clearly defines what counts as 'unsafe or unsound practices' for banks and savings institutions. This update helps banks focus on big financial risks instead of small paperwork issues, making supervision smarter and fairer. Banks will need to adjust how they handle these risks, which could affect their operations and how they communicate with regulators.

2026-08298, Regulatory Capital Rule: Community Bank Leverage Ratio Framework

Starting July 1, 2026, community banks get a break! The minimum leverage ratio drops from 9% to 8%, making it easier for smaller banks to meet rules. Plus, banks can now stay in this easier framework longer—up to four straight quarters instead of two—helping them manage their money better without rushing.

2026-08328, National Bank Non-Interest Charges and Fees

Starting June 30, 2026, national banks can clearly charge all kinds of non-interest fees, like those from credit and debit card transactions—even if set with help from others. This rule makes it official that banks have the power to collect these fees, and the public can share their thoughts until May 29, 2026. If you use or work with banks, this could affect the fees you see on your statements!

2026-08143, Streamlining Regulations Concerning Public Welfare Investments, Open Market Collateralized Loan Obligations, and Federal Savings Association Nondiscrimination Requirements

The Treasury’s Office of the Comptroller of the Currency wants to simplify some banking rules by removing outdated or confusing parts. This affects banks, especially federal savings associations and those dealing with certain loan investments. They’re asking for public feedback by May 27, 2026, aiming to cut red tape and make compliance easier without changing costs.

2026-05960, Regulatory Capital Rules: Regulatory Capital and Standardized Approach for Risk-Weighted Assets

Big banks and community banks are getting new rules to better measure the risks in their loans and investments. The changes update how banks count certain assets and income when figuring out their safety net money, called regulatory capital. These updates aim to make banks safer and smarter with their money, with some rules kicking in soon and affecting how much capital banks need to hold.

2025-21626, Regulatory Capital Rule: Modifications to the Enhanced Supplementary Leverage Ratio Standards for U.S. Global Systemically Important Bank Holding Companies and Their Subsidiary Depository Institutions; Total Loss-Absorbing Capacity and Long-Term Debt Requirements for U.S. Global Systemically Important Bank Holding Companies

Big U.S. banks that are super important to the economy are getting new rules to keep them safer and stronger. These changes tweak how much money they must keep on hand and how they handle long-term debt, helping prevent financial trouble. The new rules kick in soon and could affect how these banks manage billions in assets and debt.

Previous: 2025-08615, Emergency Import Restrictions on Categories of Archaeological and Ethnological Material of Lebanon

The U.S. is putting emergency import rules on certain archaeological and cultural items from Lebanon to protect their heritage. These rules affect anyone trying to bring these special objects into the country and will last until January 23, 2029, unless extended. If you deal with these materials, get ready for new checks and paperwork to keep things legal and respectful.

Next: 2025-08641, Authority of States To Enforce the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010; Rescission

The CFPB is rolling back a 2022 rule that limited how states can enforce consumer financial laws. This change gives states more power to protect people from unfair money practices. Businesses and state agencies should watch for updates, but no new fees or costs are expected right now.