Fed Eyes Bank Mergers: Send Complaints by October!

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.

2026-19702, 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 October 13, 2026. This affects companies across the U.S. and helps keep banking activities safe and fair.

2026-19701, Change in Bank Control Notices; Acquisitions of Shares of a Bank or Bank Holding Company

If you're planning to buy or control shares in a bank or bank holding company, the Federal Reserve wants to know! They’re reviewing applications and inviting the public to share their thoughts by October 13, 2026. This process helps keep banks safe and sound while making sure big money moves get a thumbs-up from the regulators.

Previous: 2026-19756, Extension, Without Change, of a Currently Approved Collection: Biographic Information (Registration)

The Department of Homeland Security is extending the current form that collects biographic info from people applying for immigration services—no changes, just more time. This affects anyone who fills out this form, and the government wants your feedback by November 27, 2026. There’s no new cost or extra hassle, just keeping things running smoothly.

Next: 2026-19763, Notice of Proposed Information Collection Requests: Generic Clearance for the Collection of Qualitative Feedback on Agency Service Delivery

The Institute of Museum and Library Services wants your feedback on how they collect info about their services. They’re asking for comments by November 28, 2026, to make sure the process is easy, useful, and not too time-consuming. This helps them improve service without wasting anyone’s time or money.