FFIEC Turns Back to Troubled Loans
The banking agencies and NCUA today sought comment on proposed changes to troubled-loan standards that would codify action during the great financial crisis on CRE-related allowances for loan and lease losses (see FSM Report ALLL5) and Covid-crisis era regulatory and CECL actions (see FSM Report CECL7). Although focused on CRE, the statement’s general principles would also apply to commercial loans secured by real property or business assets, reiterating current injunctions for banks to work “constructively” with troubled borrowers.
Senate Banking at Another Loggerhead, This One re Housing
Today’s Senate Banking hearing on rising rent was a partisan session, with Democrats urging support for legislation to provide emergency rental assistance and other federal interventions. In sharp contrast, Republicans argued that needless government regulation is to blame. Ranking member Toomey (R-PA) also continued Republican attacks on the GSEs, denouncing what he called their loose underwriting standards and calling for Congress to prohibit them from investing in areas with rent-control laws.
Hsu Fears Continuing Cyber Risk
In remarks today, Acting Comptroller Hsu indicated that, while banks have generally done a good job combatting cyber threats, this has led to an undue sense of security across the industry, law enforcement, and national-security officials. Mr. Hsu thus urges continued vigilance and investment that recognizes the increasingly inter-connected and complex nature of financial instruments, payment systems, and markets, as well as continued attention to contingency planning and recovery protocols.