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U.S. Regulators Unveil Softer Bank Capital Rules Today

A formal vote starts a 90-day comment window.

Overview

  • Fed, FDIC and OCC are set to approve a revised Basel draft and solicit feedback, with Michelle Bowman saying big‑bank capital will fall slightly under the proposal.
  • The overhaul removes the “stricter‑of‑two” risk‑measurement requirement and eases operational‑risk charges that would have hit fee‑based businesses.
  • A separate GSIB‑surcharge plan updates key inputs and short‑term funding assumptions, which analysts say could benefit the largest U.S. banks to varying degrees.
  • The process faces hurdles including a bipartisan Fed board decision, possible Democratic dissents, support from Trump’s Fed chair pick Kevin Warsh, and White House Budget Office review.
  • Analysts expect final rules may not land until early 2027, while greater clarity could let banks tap part of an estimated $175 billion in excess capital for lending and shareholder returns.