Banking
Showing 209–224 of 600 results
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Bank Wire – Is your bank a public business entity?
Summer 2017
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 438
Abstract: This summary of recent developments in banking looks at the impact that classification as a public business entity can have on a bank’s financial statements. It also provides some sources for information on complex new mortgage servicing rules. In addition, it provides some insights into the banking preferences of Millennials, as revealed in a recent Harris poll.
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Should you trim the tree? How to evaluate and improve branch performance
Summer 2017
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 672
Abstract: Banks need to monitor and evaluate branches on an ongoing basis to ensure they continue to perform well and are contributing to the overall health of the bank. This article discusses several approaches a bank can use to analyze branch performance. It suggests that ongoing monitoring and evaluation can lead to more informed decisions about whether to reduce expenses by closing a branch — or develop new products and services the branch can offer to better serve customers.
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Explore new business lines and boost fee income
Summer 2017
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 609
Abstract: Many community banks wanting to increase their competitiveness are exploring new business lines, such as SBA lending, municipal finance and insurance premium financing. This article discusses several of these potential business lines and their benefits. The article points out that such tactics may be worth a look for banks wishing to expand their lending options and boost fee income.
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Implementing CECL: Federal regulators offer guidance
Summer 2017
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 879
Abstract: The Current Expected Credit Loss (CECL) model was finalized in June 2016 and will take effect beginning in 2020. Nonpublic business entities (non-PBEs), including most community banks, must implement the new model for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020, and for interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2021. This article explains the steps banks should take to plan and prepare for the transition to, and implementation of, the new standard, according to federal regulators. A sidebar discusses whether banks should consider stress testing their capital.
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4 key areas to review when assessing ability to compete
June / July 2017
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 425
Abstract: There are several factors a lender should consider in assessing whether a small business is likely to meet its loan obligations. These include the competitive environment and the business’s tangible and intangible resources. This brief article explains the need for lenders to go beyond financial statement analysis to gain a realistic picture of a company’s ability to compete.
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Protect your portfolio with these retention strategies
June / July 2017
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 593
Abstract: To maintain a stable portfolio over time, lenders need to strengthen existing borrower relationships. This article discusses some key strategies lenders can use to retain current borrowers, such as suggesting refinancing or add-on options, regularly calling borrowers to address any concerns they may have about their loans and becoming a referral source for value-added services.
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Can you help borrowers turn receivables into cash faster?
June / July 2017
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 640
Abstract: To decrease the possibility of bad debt write-offs, lenders should educate their borrowers about some basic actions they can take to improve their collections. This article lists some helpful questions lenders can ask to point their borrowers in the right direction. These include whether their billing process is sound and whether they have a clear payment schedule. Providing support now will both ensure loans are more secure and cement lender relationships with borrowers.
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Trying times – Keeping a loan afloat when a borrower becomes seriously injured or ill
June / July 2017
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 872
Abstract: For a business highly dependent on its owner for day-to-day management and overall viability, owner injury or illness can threaten the business’s ability to function — and to make good on its loan. A lender has an important role to play in such a situation. This article explains that the lender’s actions can make all the difference in whether the owner is able to work through the challenges created by injury or illness. It also notes how the lender can help the owner face such problems squarely, so that a mutually beneficial solution is more likely. A sidebar suggests several questions to ask to help determine the impact of the owner’s ailment on the business.
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Take stock of inventory
April / May 2017
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 402
Abstract: A small business’s ability to track inventory and minimize errors, omissions and fraud depends on the existence of a robust inventory reporting and tracking system. This brief article defines several general elements an inventory tracking system needs to include — whether it’s manual or computerized — including inventory requisitions, receiving reports and an inventory ledger. The article also suggests that the determination of whether an inventory system is effective may require occasional site visits and interviews with owners and managers.
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High business credit scores equal affordable financing
April / May 2017
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 662
Abstract: Credit applicants with low credit scores are often surprised when they’re turned down or offered less favorable terms than expected. This article points out that lenders need to remind prospective borrowers of the importance of establishing and maintaining the highest business credit score possible. The article explains some ways businesses can stay on top of their credit score, including separating personal and business credit and paying on time. It also discusses credit reporting agencies and how they operate.
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How auditors assess a borrower’s financial viability
April / May 2017
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 548
Abstract: A CPA evaluates the going concern assumption during a financial statement audit to get a picture of a company’s financial health and viability going forward. This article describes a few items they look for during that assessment, including potential red flags like pending lawsuits and investigations, working capital deficiencies, negative operating cash flow, the loss of a major customer or franchise, loan defaults and debt restructurings. The article notes that audit opinions can offer important clues as to whether companies will continue to operate as going concerns.
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Are prospective borrowers telling the truth? Learn the warning signs associated with deception
April / May 2017
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 869
Abstract: Most borrowers respond honestly when they meet with bankers about their financial condition. But those with less than stellar records may be tempted to downplay their true economic situation. Lenders need strategies to help them determine if a loan applicant is telling the whole truth. This article offers some forensic accounting tips for uncovering exaggerations, misstatements and outright fraud when managers are suspected of dishonest behavior. A sidebar lists several questions lenders should ask if they are concerned about potential inconsistencies — or deception — on the part of their borrowers.
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Bank Wire – Is your website accessible to the disabled?
Spring 2017
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 436
Abstract: This summary of recent developments in community banking discusses the need for banks to ensure their websites are accessible to the visually and hearing impaired to avoid being sued under the Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as recent amendments to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s mortgage servicing provisions. The article also includes a quick overview of blockchain technology and its potential for making bank transactions more efficient.
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Should there be national bank charters for “fintech” companies?
Spring 2017
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 598
Abstract: The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) is considering issuing special-purpose national bank charters to financial technology (fintech) companies, such as online lenders, payment processors and digital currency firms. Both community banking advocates (concerned about unfair competition) and state banking regulators (who fear their authority will be preempted) have criticized this initiative. This article discusses the pros and cons of these charters. It also suggests that community banks should monitor the OCC’s continuing exploration of charters for fintech companies and evaluate the potential impact on their business strategies.
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What benchmarking can do for borrowers
Spring 2017
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 665
Abstract: Benchmarking, which involves comparisons between a company’s performance and industry norms or best practices, is a useful tool for a company attempting to gauge its financial performance. But many borrowers don’t use this tool because they’re too caught up in daily operations or aren’t familiar with the available resources. This article uses a hypothetical example to illustrate how bankers can provide guidance to their borrowers on the ins and outs of benchmarking and other professional tools, thus generating a win-win situation for both.
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Managing asset concentrations demands a balanced approach
Spring 2017
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 856
Abstract: Asset concentrations increase a bank’s risk by exposing it to significant potential losses. But in an effort to serve their communities, many community banks end up with high concentrations in local industries, such as agriculture, forestry or manufacturing. This article suggests some best practices for banks to follow to balance risk vs. reward and mitigate potential risks, including reviewing credit risk management policies and evaluating capital and reserves. A sidebar explains what examiners look for when assessing whether banks have high commercial real estate concentrations.