FDIC's Hush-Hush Huddle on Bank Safety Secrets

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.

2026-05960, 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.

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.

2026-20433, Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

The FDIC is getting rid of two old record systems used for hiring because they’re now covered by a bigger government system. This change affects job applicants and makes record-keeping simpler and more efficient. It takes effect on October 6, 2026, with no extra costs involved.

Previous: 2025-13438, Submission for Office of Management and Budget Review; Native Employment Works (NEW) Plan Guidance and NEW Program Report

The Administration for Children and Families wants to keep the Native Employment Works (NEW) Plan Guidance and Program Report for three more years with just a few small updates. This affects Native communities working on job programs, helping them keep track and improve their efforts. The extension means no big changes in money or timing, just smoother support through 2028.

Next: 2025-13440, Meetings; Sunshine Act

The FDIC held a public meeting on July 15, 2025, with less than seven days' notice to discuss important updates to banking rules, including community reinvestment and branch relocations. These changes affect banks, industrial loan companies, and their parent companies, aiming to improve transparency and regulatory clarity. No new costs were announced, but the FDIC is seeking feedback to shape future policies.