Regulators Propose Tailored Guidance for Banks' Third-Party Risks
Published Date: 9/15/2026
Notice
Summary
Big banks and credit unions, listen up! The government agencies want to update the rules on how you manage risks from outside companies you work with. This new guidance helps you focus on the riskiest partners, tailor your approach based on your size and complexity, and use resources smarter—all aiming to keep your money safe and sound. Get your comments in by November 16, 2026, or miss out on shaping the future!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Encourages Fintech‑Bank Partnerships
The agencies explicitly say the proposed guidance would "encourage responsible innovation" and remove broad or prescriptive language from the 2023 Guidance that "may unduly impede fintechs from entering partnerships with banking organizations."
Rescind and Replace 2023 Guidance
The agencies plan to rescind and replace the Interagency Guidance on Third-Party Relationships: Risk Management (the 2023 Guidance) and related Supplemental TPRM Resources, aiming to "promote consistency and innovation in the banking industry."
Emphasis on Risk‑Based Tailoring
The proposed guidance would emphasize aligning third-party risk management to reasonably assessed risk levels and tailoring oversight according to a banking organization's "size, complexity, and risk profile" and the nature of its third-party relationships.
Guidance Is Non‑Enforceable
The proposed guidance is not an enforceable rule; the agencies say non-compliance with this guidance "will not result in supervisory action." Examiners may still take action for violations of laws, unsafe or unsound practices, or other material risks.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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