Fed Reviews Bank Merger Plans for Stability

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.

2026-20509, Loans to Executive Officers, Directors, and Principal Shareholders of Member Banks: Bank Holding Companies

The Federal Reserve is updating rules about loans to bank insiders like executives and big shareholders to make things clearer and fairer. They’re giving everyone more time—until November 4, 2026—to share their thoughts on these changes. This affects banks and their top people, aiming to boost transparency and keep things running smoothly.

2026-20478, Agency Information Collection Activities: Announcement of Board Approval Under Delegated Authority and Submission to OMB

The Federal Reserve is updating and extending its job application form for three more years starting October 5, 2026. This affects anyone applying to work at the Federal Reserve, making sure their info is up-to-date and easier to handle. No big costs or delays—just a smoother hiring process ahead!

Previous: 2025-16766, Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements Under OMB Review

The Small Business Administration (SBA) wants to keep collecting some info and needs the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) thumbs-up. This notice gives everyone 30 more days to share their thoughts before the final decision. Small businesses and others who provide info should pay attention—this could affect how and when they report, but no big costs are expected.

Next: 2025-16768, Combined Notice of Filings #1

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got a bunch of new filings from energy companies like Faraday Solar B and Portland General Electric. These filings include requests to change rates, confirm generator status, and update rules, with some changes set to take effect later this year or early next year. If you’re involved in energy or power markets, keep an eye on deadlines for comments in mid-September and possible impacts on electricity costs.