Fed Reviews Bank Side Hustles: Comment by April!

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.

2026-20478, 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!

2026-20340, Change in Bank Control Notices; Acquisitions of Shares of a Bank or Bank Holding Company

If you want to buy a big chunk of a bank or a bank holding company, you need to tell the Federal Reserve first. They check to make sure everything’s fair and safe before you can take control. People have until October 20, 2026, to share their thoughts on these deals, so don’t miss your chance to speak up!

Previous: 2026-05414, Formations of, Acquisitions by, and Mergers of Bank Holding Companies

Some companies want to become bank holding companies or merge with banks, and the Federal Reserve is reviewing their applications. If you’re interested, you can share your thoughts by April 20, 2026. These changes could affect how banks are owned and controlled, with some companies switching their structure or merging to grow stronger.

Next: 2026-05416, National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council

The National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council is holding a virtual meeting on April 10, 2026, to discuss their 10-year action plan and grant program recommendations. Anyone interested in urban forestry, including community groups and local governments, can join or send comments by April 2. This is a great chance to shape how cities grow greener, with no cost to participate!