BankThink

While bankers are becoming accustomed to the idea that artificial intelligence and software "bots" will affect their business, a "Jetsons"-style robot is a novel feature at a branch.

The startup Dave (just Dave) sells an app that forecasts short-term bank balances and sends users small-dollar advances when necessary, part of a wave of efforts to improve consumers’ financial health using digital tools.

The Georgia company invested in HCSB Financial's recapitalization a year before agreeing to buy the coastal South Carolina bank. Doing so allowed United to stay to close to HCSB and its board, which helped when the time came to discuss a deal.

Congressional action is necessary to give financial regulators the tools they need to promote responsible innovation.