National Banking Brief
Community banking. Policy. Perspective.
A demonstration, not an existing client publication. Built and operated by Desk. Source-based news briefs and clearly labeled sample perspectives, with illustrative photos and non-clickable previews.
Bank supervision
More community banks qualify for an 18-month exam cycle
Federal regulators expanded eligibility for longer on-site examination cycles. Qualifying institutions must meet management, capital, and risk criteria, with offsite monitoring continuing between examinations.
Federal Reserve Board · September 10, 2026
Your perspective
Op-Ed: Community banking should stay close to the borrower
Local knowledge belongs alongside financial data. Community banks should preserve the relationships that help them understand a small business, assess its needs, and explain lending decisions clearly.
Demonstration op-ed
Technology & risk
Agencies propose a new approach to third-party risk
Banking agencies requested feedback on revised guidance for managing vendor relationships. A companion proposal offers a tailored guide for traditional community banks, alongside a statement about core service providers.
Federal Reserve Board · September 11, 2026
In the edition
News, developments & your perspective
Capital
Community bank leverage framework moves to an eight percent ratio
A finalized rule lowers the optional community bank leverage ratio from nine percent to eight percent. It also lengthens the grace period for institutions that temporarily fall out of compliance.
Federal Reserve Board · April 23, 2026
Bank structure
Fed proposes updated rules for depositor-owned banks
The Federal Reserve proposed changes to regulations for mutual banking organizations. The proposal would clarify eligible capital instruments and reduce procedural burdens while preserving the depositor-owned model.
Federal Reserve Board · July 31, 2026
Payments
Noncash payments keep growing as checks decline
Initial findings from the Federal Reserve's payments study show continued growth in noncash transactions. Cards led by transaction count, while ACH accounted for most noncash payment value.
Federal Reserve Board · July 1, 2026
Community investment
Updated rural designations guide community reinvestment consideration
Federal agencies released their 2026 list of distressed or underserved nonmetropolitan areas. Eligible revitalization and stabilization activities in these locations can receive Community Reinvestment Act consideration.
Federal Reserve Board · June 30, 2026
Your perspective
Op-Ed: Rural investment needs local knowledge
A rural community's priorities should shape the financing conversation. Banks, businesses, and local organizations can start by listening to residents and identifying projects that address practical needs.
Demonstration op-ed
Household finances
Household survey tracks persistent pressure from rising prices
The Federal Reserve's annual household report found broadly stable financial well-being, with price increases still the most common financial concern. The survey also examined employment, expenses, housing, and emergency savings.
Federal Reserve Board · May 13, 2026
More to know
News & opinion
Compliance
Fed proposes risk-based updates to anti-money laundering programs
A Federal Reserve proposal would direct more compliance resources toward higher-risk customers and activities. Banks would also incorporate federal anti-money laundering priorities into their risk assessments.
Federal Reserve Board · July 7, 2026
Policy
Regulation O comment deadline extended to November 4
The Federal Reserve extended the comment period for its proposed changes to insider-lending rules. Interested parties now have until November 4 to respond, rather than October 5.
Federal Reserve Board · October 2, 2026
Your perspective
Letter to the Editor: Keep financial education close to home
Practical conversations about saving, borrowing, and recognizing fraud should be easy to find. Community banks can help by offering clear explanations and meeting people in familiar community settings.
Demonstration letter to the editor