Big Banks Get Tweaked Safety Rules for Fairer Play
Published Date: 7/10/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
Big U.S. banks called GSIBs and their bank subsidiaries will see changes to how their safety buffers are calculated, making rules fairer and less strict during normal times. These updates help banks take part in safer, low-risk activities without getting held back by tough rules. The changes also tweak debt and loss-absorbing rules to keep everything balanced, with new deadlines for banks to follow the updated standards.
No Economic Impacts Identified for this Document
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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.
2026-05960, 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.
2025-21625, Regulatory Capital Rule: Revisions to the Community Bank Leverage Ratio Framework
The government wants to make it easier for small banks to stay in a special low-risk capital program by lowering the required leverage ratio from 9% to 8%. They’re also giving banks more time—up to four quarters instead of two—to fix any issues without losing their spot. Banks and bank holding companies should weigh in by January 30, 2026, as these changes could save them money and reduce red tape.
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.
2026-18859, Proposed Third-Party Risk Management Guidance
Big banks and credit unions, listen up! The government agencies want to update the rules on how you manage risks from outside companies you work with. This new guidance helps you focus on the riskiest partners, tailor your approach based on your size and complexity, and use resources smarter—all aiming to keep your money safe and sound. Get your comments in by November 16, 2026, or miss out on shaping the future!
2026-18766, Expanded Examination Cycle for Certain Small Insured Depository Institutions and U.S. Branches and Agencies of Foreign Banks
Starting September 14, 2026, small banks and U.S. branches of foreign banks with less than $6 billion in assets can now enjoy longer breaks between on-site exams—18 months instead of the usual 12! This change means less hassle and more time to focus on serving customers, with no extra costs. The agencies want your thoughts by October 14, 2026, so speak up if you have ideas!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-12786, System for Regulating Rates and Classes for Market Dominant Products
The Postal Service asked for more time to gather feedback on their rate rules, and the Commission said yes! Now, everyone has extra days to share their thoughts, plus a new deadline to reply to comments. This means more chances to weigh in before any changes happen.
Next: 2025-12800, National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants; Delegation of Authority to Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s environmental agency is getting the green light to enforce updated air pollution rules that protect people from harmful chemicals. This means they’ll handle these important clean air standards themselves, including in some Native lands, starting with rules set through June 2023. It’s a win for local control and keeping the air safer without extra costs or delays.