Increased competition, new technology, and bank consolidation are reinforcing the need for banks to operate efficiently. Moreover, recent research on banking efficiency shows that there is much room for reducing expenses and making better use of bank resources. This article compares the...

Much of the recent consolidation in the banking industry has been across state lines, and this trend will accelerate due to recent federal legislation. As interstate banking expands further, the performance and success of banks that are acquired will be the key factor determining how much...

Special issue on problem banks

A substantial number of community banks in the Tenth Federal Reserve District are located in rural areas that are experiencing slower economic growth, a less vibrant business environment, and little or no population increase. As a result, these banks face a variety of challenges, including how...

Over the last decade, many significant developments have influenced home lending. Among these developments are the longest expansion period in U.S. history, path-breaking technological and financial innovations, new regulatory and legislative incentives for low- and moderate-income lending, and...

Interstate banking expanded rapidly over the last decade as all but a few states adopted laws allowing entry by outside organizations. The resulting changes are now raising many questions regarding the performance of interstate acquisitions and their effects on the banking system and its...