Fed Eyes Bank Mergers and Acquisitions Closely

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.

2026-20037, Regulation D: Reserve Requirements of Depository Institutions

Starting September 17, 2026, banks and similar institutions get a higher interest rate—3.90%—on money they keep with the Federal Reserve. This 0.25% boost helps keep the federal funds rate steady, which affects loans and savings for everyone. The new rule kicks in officially on September 30, 2026, making it a win for banks and the economy.

2026-20017, Change in Bank Control Notices; Acquisitions of Shares of a Bank or Bank Holding Company

If you want to buy or control shares in a bank or bank holding company, you need to tell the Federal Reserve and wait for approval. People can check these applications and share their thoughts by October 15, 2026. This keeps bank ownership clear and fair, making sure no surprises pop up in who’s running the banks.

Previous: 2025-20471, Grandfathering Registration Notice

If you have water projects in the Susquehanna River Basin, this notice is for you! The Commission is listing projects that got special 'grandfathered' registration during October 2025, meaning they’re officially recognized under old rules. If you’re involved, check your project’s status soon—this could affect your permits and planning without extra fees or delays.

Next: 2025-20474, TSA Modernized Alternative Identity Verification User Fee

Starting November 20, 2025, TSA is rolling out a new way to verify your identity if you forget your ID at the airport. If you want to use this backup option, you’ll pay an $18 fee, but it’s totally optional and doesn’t guarantee you’ll get through security. This change helps TSA cover costs while giving travelers a modern safety net.