Banks Plot Mergers: Federal Reserve Seeks Public Input by May

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.

2026-09390 — Formations of, Acquisitions by, and Mergers of Bank Holding Companies

Bank companies want to grow by buying or merging with other banks, and the Federal Reserve is checking their plans to keep things safe and fair. If you have thoughts, you can share them by June 11, 2026. These moves could change who controls some banks and might affect local banking options and money flow.

2026-08944 — Change in Bank Control Notices; Acquisitions of Shares of a Bank or Bank Holding Company

Some folks want to buy or keep shares in banks or bank companies, and the Federal Reserve is checking their applications to make sure everything’s fair and safe. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until May 21, 2026, to speak up! This process helps keep banks steady and protects everyone’s money.

2026-08298 — Regulatory Capital Rule: Community Bank Leverage Ratio Framework

Starting July 1, 2026, small community banks can meet a lower leverage ratio of 8% instead of 9%, making it easier to qualify for a simpler capital rule. Plus, banks now have more time—up to four straight quarters instead of two—to stay in this easier framework even if they don’t meet all the rules, helping them manage their money better without rushing. This change helps community banks save time and money while keeping things safe and sound.

2026-08246 — Change in Bank Control Notices; Acquisitions of Shares of a Bank or Bank Holding Company

Some folks want to buy shares in banks or bank companies, and the Federal Reserve is checking their applications to make sure everything’s fair and safe. If you’re interested, you can see the details or share your thoughts by May 13, 2026. This process helps keep banks steady and protects everyone’s money.

2026-08248 — Notice of Proposals To Engage in or To Acquire Companies Engaged in Permissible Nonbanking Activities

Some companies want to start or buy businesses that do activities related to banking but aren’t banks themselves. The Federal Reserve is checking these plans and asking the public to share their thoughts by May 13, 2026. This affects companies like Merchants Bancorp, which plans to buy Loan Exchange and offer new credit services across the U.S.

Previous: 2026-07815 — Change in Bank Control Notices; Acquisitions of Shares of a Bank or Bank Holding Company

If you want to buy or take control of a bank or its holding company, you need to tell the Federal Reserve and wait for their okay. People like James Long are applying to do just that, and the public can share their thoughts by May 7, 2026. This process helps keep banks safe and fair while making sure everyone knows who’s in charge.

Next: 2026-07817 — Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

The Department of Education is updating its National Student Loan Data System, which tracks student loan info to help decide who gets financial aid and to keep an eye on loan programs. This change affects students, schools, and loan administrators, and it kicks in on April 22, 2026, unless public feedback leads to tweaks. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until May 22, 2026, to speak up—no cost involved, just your voice!