dealmaking-strategy

Recent M&A Deals Suffer from Overly Rosy Projections

01/04/16

Unlike the bargain-heavy aftermath of the crisis, acquisitions during the recovery have been hampered by high premiums and unsatisfactory returns.

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First Midwest to Buy NI Bancshares in Illinois

11/12/15

First Midwest Bancorp in Itasca, Ill., has agreed to buy NI Bancshares in Sycamore, Ill.

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Regulators Need to Hold Community Groups Accountable, Too

08/06/15

The Federal Reserve should require community groups to disclose the contributions they receive from banks in order to ensure that controversial mergers receive fair public hearings.

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Public CRA Benchmarks Would Boost Transparency in Bank Mergers

03/20/15

Not only should regulators investigate the timing of OneWest's charitable donations to supporters of its proposed merger with CIT Group, they should encourage both banks to adopt clear CRA benchmarks that would hold them accountable for future investments in local communities.

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Heavier Scrutiny for Banks' Charitable Donations Could Backfire

03/16/15

Two activist groups want regulators to investigate whether OneWest Bank used philanthropic contributions to win the support of community organizations. But this could set a precedent that would discourage banks from making much-needed donations.

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What's the Real Reason Square 1 Is Selling to PacWest?

03/16/15

One of the most successful startup banks in a generation is turning over its keys to a California bank. Institutional ownership and the prospect of slower growth may have prompted Square 1 to make the deal.

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Be Careful About Playing Up Your 'Government Lender' Status

03/04/15

A recent CFPB enforcement action shows that lenders must not only avoid misleading statements, but anything in connection with their advertising that may have the likelihood of significantly confusing consumers.

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One More Money Laundering Problem for Banks to Worry About

03/03/15

Trade-based money laundering happens outside the financial system. But it can still create major issues for banks because criminals typically deposit their profits in bank accounts.

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Congress Lets Banks Out of the Doghouse

02/17/15

The confirmation hearing for attorney general nominee Loretta Lynch suggested a shift in legislators' attitudes toward banks. Rather than the usual focus on banks' alleged misdeeds, lawmakers cast them as victims of government overreach in Operation Choke Point.

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Capital Comes at a Cost--Just Ask Santander

02/06/15

Banco Santander's stock market value plummeted after it announced an $8.8 billion capital raise and dividend cuts in January. The experience serves as a reminder to bank directors that the interests of investors cannot remain forever on the back burner.

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