The agency proposed changes in December to how customer relationships affect the definition of brokered funds, which has big implications for banks that are not well capitalized.
If Capitol Hill plans another round of stimulus, Democrats could have more leverage to demand steps such as suspending overdraft fees or placing a temporary cap on consumer lending rates.
Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Mark Calabria said a virus-induced financial crisis might give rise to more delinquencies and foreclosures than the 2007 subprime mortgage meltdown.
The regulation established standards for investors who own less than a quarter of an institution. Banks are getting more time for implementation as they focus on effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 2008 package proved some banks were too big to fail. But the rushed $2.2 billion stimulus shows now any company can be bailed out.
The agency has relaxed some reporting requirements and joined other regulators in encouraging banks to help borrowers, but pressure is building on the bureau to do more to aid consumers suffering financial hardship.
Many argue the economic turmoil from the pandemic makes the Comprehensive Capital Analysis and Review irrelevant this year, while others say testing banks’ capital strength is crucial now more than ever.
The $2 trillion stimulus package, which the House passed earlier in the day, aims to expand Federal Reserve liquidity resources and provide financial institutions with some regulatory relief.
Only a firm “actively swindling funds” would trigger an onsite visit, according to Peter Driscoll.
The policy change may prompt more defendants to reach settlements, an attorney says.