Branch network

The biggest bank in the U.S. will temporarily close 20% of its branches, following recommendations by health experts. It said it would also operate its remaining branches at reduced hours.

Certain loan segments are showing signs of deterioration, but consumer lending and digital banking are bright spots. Meanwhile, bankers are eyeing opportunities to improve efficiency, add scale and take advantage of M&A disruption. Here's what to expect from smaller regionals in the year ahead.

The company has revised its near-term forecasts for reducing expenses, citing delayed branch closings and a decision to spend more time testing systems ahead of conversion and integration.

The effort is part of a push by interim Chief Executive Officer Noel Quinn to cut costs at Europe’s largest lender by assets.

A provision of the Community Reinvestment Act overhaul package would rightfully hold lenders more accountable for reinvesting in cities where they are feeding off deposits.