FDIC Closes the Books on Cowlitz Bank's Receivership

2026-17823, Unsafe or Unsound Practices, Matters Requiring Attention

The OCC and FDIC are rolling out a new rule starting November 2, 2026, that clearly defines what counts as 'unsafe or unsound practices' for banks and savings institutions. This update helps banks focus on big financial risks instead of small paperwork issues, making supervision smarter and fairer. Banks will need to adjust how they handle these risks, which could affect their operations and how they communicate with regulators.

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.

2025-21625, 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.

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.

2026-21983, Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Revision of Information Collection; FDIC How America Banks Survey; Comment Request (3064-0215)

The FDIC is updating its popular How America Banks Survey for 2027, which checks how U.S. households use banks and other financial services. This survey, done with the U.S. Census Bureau, helps everyone understand banking habits and improve financial policies. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until December 28, 2026, to share them—no cost to participate, just your voice!

Previous: 2026-22476, Application for Renewal of Authorization To Export Electric Energy; Tenaska Power Services Co.

Tenaska Power Services Co. wants to keep sending electricity from the U.S. to Canada for another five years. This renewal affects energy markets in many states and keeps the power flowing smoothly across the border. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until December 4, 2026, to speak up!

Next: 2026-22482, Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities

The Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities is holding a video meeting on November 16, 2026, to review and recommend insurance for art exhibits starting July 2027. This affects museums and organizations applying for protection on valuable art during transport and display. The meeting will handle sensitive financial info and is closed to the public to keep secrets safe.