The Compliance 911 Show

In Podcast 95, Len and Dean delve into the critical flaws of the 2023 Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) rule, emphasizing its detrimental impact on banks and communities. Len highlights the rule's exclusion of crucial loan types like multifamily mortgages and open-end mortgages, arguing they are vital for community development. He criticizes the rule's overly complex performance rating system, which he claims is incomprehensible and undermines its intended purpose. Len urges bankers to actively support the rule's repeal, emphasizing the need for public education and constructive feedback to reshape regulatory policies effectively. Dean underscores the importance of understanding these flaws and advocating for regulatory changes that enhance rather than hinder the CRA's goals. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In Episode 94 of their podcast series, Len and Dean discuss the pervasive issue of bank fraud, highlighting its various forms and staggering financial impacts. They cover topics such as credit card fraud, phishing, synthetic identities, and insider threats, citing significant increases in fraud incidents and financial losses globally. Dean provides insights from recent reports, including specific statistics on consumer losses and the rise of different fraud types. They conclude with recommendations for financial institutions to enhance fraud controls through advanced technologies like AI, multi-factor authentication, and secure encryption protocols, emphasizing the importance of customer education and regulatory compliance. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this podcast, Len and Dean discuss the potential impact of regulatory changes under the Trump Administration, particularly focusing on the 2023 Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) rule and Section 1071 rule. Len highlights significant problems with the 2023 CRA rule, especially the rigid new assessment area rules that could create unrealistic performance standards for banks. The new rule introduces assessment areas for large banks based on entire counties and remote retail lending areas, which could lead to misleading performance evaluations. Len urges the banking community to prepare for potential regulatory changes, provide feedback during the notice of proposed rulemaking, and advocate for more practical and effective rules. He also advises bankers to prepare testimony on these issues for when the proposed rule is published. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this podcast episode, Len and Dean discuss a recent Joint Statement from regulators on "Elder Financial Exploitation." They explore the challenges financial institutions (FIs) face in protecting seniors from fraud while respecting their independence and privacy rights. Dean highlights key points from the guidance, including policies for governance, employee training, transaction holds, and trusted contacts, aimed at preventing elder financial exploitation. They also discuss the balance between intervention and autonomy, the evolving tactics of fraud, and the role of FIs in reporting suspicious activities. Recommendations for FIs include using AI-driven fraud detection, collaborating with various stakeholders, and providing tailored fraud prevention education for seniors. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this podcast, the hosts discuss the importance of managing third-party risk for financial institutions. They highlight how institutions rely on external providers for technological innovation and operational support, but these partnerships come with a range of risks. Key risk categories include operational, cybersecurity, regulatory, reputational, financial, legal, and concentration risks. To manage these effectively, institutions must engage in comprehensive due diligence, assess their risk appetite, continuously monitor vendor relationships, and ensure that their contracts clearly outline responsibilities and safeguards. The conversation emphasizes that third-party risk management is a complex, ongoing process tailored to the unique needs and size of each institution, and that Boards of Directors must maintain oversight to ensure safe and sound operations. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this podcast, Dean and Len discuss potential regulatory changes in 2025, particularly concerning the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) and Section 1071 of Dodd-Frank. Len outlines five ways regulations can change: congressional legislation, regulatory agency amendments, enforcement changes, litigation, and the Congressional Review Act. He predicts that legislative action is unlikely due to political gridlock but sees regulatory amendments, enforcement shifts, and litigation as probable paths for change, especially with the Trump Administration's focus on deregulation. Len critiques the 2023 CRA Rule for its complexity and rigidity in assessment areas, and he argues that Section 1071 exceeds congressional intent by mandating excessive data collection. Despite potential regulatory rollbacks, he warns that compliance remains critical since future administrations could reinstate stricter policies. He advises banks to maintain proactive compliance strategies to mitigate risks amid ongoing regulatory uncertainty.  Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

The podcast discusses recent regulatory developments following the issuance of an Executive Order by President Trump's administration that froze regulatory actions. This freeze affects the proposal, issuance, and implementation of rules, pending review by new agency heads. The conversation focuses on the implications for banking regulations, particularly Section 1071 and the 2023 CRA rule, both of which have controversial effective dates approaching. While there is some uncertainty regarding whether these rules fall under the freeze, recent statements from administration officials suggest a delay is likely. Additionally, a congressional repeal effort for Section 1071 adds another layer of uncertainty. The hosts emphasize that, until official guidance is issued, banks should prepare as if the existing deadlines remain in effect, while staying informed and consulting legal counsel for clarity. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting  

In this episode of The Compliance 911 Show, Dean and Len discuss the key regulatory and compliance trends expected in 2025. While a Republican-controlled government may signal potential regulatory easing, changes will take time to materialize, making 2025 a pivotal and costly year for compliance. Key areas of focus include anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations, with FinCEN pushing for stricter reporting requirements and global efforts to standardize compliance. AI-powered compliance tools, blockchain, and cybersecurity are also highlighted as both opportunities and risks, with new regulations likely addressing AI bias and data protection concerns. Additionally, banks must enhance third-party risk management and brace for increased scrutiny in consumer protection, digital banking, and financial inclusion efforts, particularly with changes to the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) and Section 1071. The discussion underscores the importance of staying ahead of regulatory shifts to navigate an evolving financial landscape. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

Podcast 87 explores the evolving regulatory approach to redlining enforcement, focusing on shifts since the DOJ launched its “Combatting Redlining Initiative” in 2021. Historically, redlining was assessed based on intent and loan denials, transitioning in 2009 to statistical analyses using "Reasonably Expected Market Areas" (REMA). Recently, regulators have expanded REMAs to entire metropolitan areas or states, raising concerns about fairness and accuracy. A notable development evidenced in some recent examinations is a new peer definition for banks under examination, limiting comparisons to banks and credit unions with deposit-taking branches in the REMA. This adjustment, which excludes mortgage companies operating under different models, has shown more realistic results, often improving banks' minority penetration metrics. Banks are encouraged to incorporate this method into internal analyses, leveraging data from HMDA and regulatory websites, as it may mitigate potential DOJ referrals amidst intensified enforcement. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

The discussion highlights the potential for regulatory shifts, particularly around CRA and Dodd-Frank 1071, though changes may take 18-24 months. The conversation shifts to the unprecedented $3 billion penalty against TD Bank. In a press release from the  Department of Justice, Attorney General Merrick Garland said, "By making its services convenient for criminals, TD Bank became one."  The press release also said the TD Bank plea marked "the first instance of a U.S. bank pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering" and describes a situation in which "TD Bank faced systemic compliance failures, including inadequate internal controls, deficient transaction monitoring, and neglect of suspicious activity reporting, leading to extensive violations of BSA/AML regulations". The podcast underscores the importance of well-resourced and up-to-date compliance programs, as TD Bank's deficiencies highlight the consequences of prioritizing other objectives over regulatory obligations. As stated in the DOJ press release, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco said, "Every bank compliance official in America should be reviewing today's charges as a case study of what not to do. And every bank CEO and board member should be doing the same. Because if the business case for compliance wasn't clear before - it should be now". Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Compliance 911 Show! In this episode, hosts Dean Stockford and Len Susio dive deep into the challenges and impacts of the simultaneous implementation of the new CRA 2023 rule and the Section 1071 rule set to unfold over the next few years. Our discussion focuses on how compliance officers can prepare for these significant changes, including understanding the phased rollout plan, identifying covered lenders, and the implications of reporting requirements under Section 1071. As litigation continues to pose potential delays, our hosts emphasize the importance of getting a head start on compliance efforts. Listen as they unpack the various complexities and crossovers between CRA and Section 1071, helping you to strategize your compliance approach effectively while highlighting the possible pitfalls and the significance of maintaining proper data collection systems. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this podcast, Dean Stockford and Len Suzio discuss the recent FDIC Advertising and Signage rule changes, which took effect on April 1, 2024, and aim to modernize compliance requirements to align with digital banking practices. Dean highlights the importance of these updates, which include modernized signage rules for branches, digital platforms, and ATMs, disclosures distinguishing insured deposits from non-deposit products, and mandatory written policies for compliance. The rule also addresses misrepresentations about FDIC insurance by IDIs and non-bank entities, clarifying disclosure requirements to prevent consumer confusion. With a mandatory compliance date of May 1, 2025, Dean urges institutions to act promptly to ensure compliance. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting  

In this episode of the Compliance 911 Show, hosts Dean Stockford and Len Suzio are joined by special guest Linda Ezuka for the second part of their series on the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). Linda, the founder of CRA Today and the CRA Hub, shares her extensive expertise on CRA compliance, community development finance, and the new CRA rules introduced in 2023. The discussion delves into the complexities and challenges posed by the new CRA regulations, including the concerns expressed by bankers about adapting to these changes. Linda provides valuable insights into how financial institutions can prepare for the transition, balancing the legacy CRA rules with the new requirements. Linda also highlights the potential opportunities offered by the new CRA, such as partnerships with minority depository institutions and community development financial institutions. The conversation explores how these collaborations can enhance service to disadvantaged communities and improve financial literacy. Additionally, the episode touches on the introduction of calibrated benchmarks for assessing bank performance, and the importance of understanding community context when evaluating CRA activities. Join us for this informative session as we explore the evolving landscape of the Community Reinvestment Act and learn how banks and community groups can work together to better serve their communities. CRAtoday: cratoday.com CRAhub: cratoday.com/hub Linda: linda@cratoday.com   Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

Welcome to the Compliance 911 Show, where hosts Dean Stockford and Len Suzio dive into the intricacies of the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) with special guest Linda Ezuka. Linda, the founder of CRAtoday and the CRAhub, shares her extensive experience and insights on how to master CRA compliance, stay exam-ready, and leverage capital for community development. In this episode, Linda discusses the most common questions from bankers, the importance of performance context, and the challenges of identifying community development loans. She also emphasizes the need for CRA professionals to engage with their communities to truly understand and meet local credit needs. Join us for an enlightening conversation that will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of the CRA and drive impactful community development initiatives. CRAtoday: cratoday.com CRAhub: cratoday.com/hub   Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In Episode 81 of the podcast series "Red Warning on Redlining," Len and Dean continue their discussion with fair lending expert Lori Sommerfield, a partner at Troutman Pepper. They explore the future of redlining enforcement by DOJ and federal agencies through 2024 and beyond. Lori explains the Combatting Redlining Initiative's impact to date and coordination among the federal agencies, as well as advises financial institutions on best practices to monitor and manage redlining risks. Implications of the U.S. Supreme Court's recent Loper Bright decision for redlining cases is also discussed. The episode emphasizes preparation and fair lending compliance for financial institutions. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting  

In Episode 80 of the podcast series on regulatory compliance, Len and Dean discuss the topic of redlining with Lori Sommerfield, a partner at Troutman Pepper, in a new two-part series “Red Warning on Redlining.” Lori, a seasoned fair lending attorney, explains the traditional and modern definitions of redlining, emphasizing how regulators now primarily use Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) data to identify potential redlining activity without other evidence to support such claims. She also discusses the DOJ's "Combatting Redlining Initiative," which is a “whole of government” approach leveraging federal agencies, U.S. attorneys, and state attorneys general to eradicate redlining practices. The episode highlights the challenges financial institutions face under aggressive enforcement and the importance of monitoring for redlining risks. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In a recent podcast, Len and Dean discuss the June 10 article "Manufacturing Fair Lending" from National Mortgage Professional, which delves into the "Modern Theory of Redlining" introduced by  bank regulators after AG Merrick Garland's 2021 Combatting Redlining Initiative was announced. The article includes insights from notable figures like Paul Hancock former chief of the Housing and Civil Enforcement at the DOJ  and Brian Montgomery, former deputy secretary of HUD highlighting concerns about the government's push for racial balance in loan originations. Len also mentions his follow-up article, "Redlining Isn't What it Used to Be," which criticizes regulators' use of statistics to allege redlining. They discuss the complexity of redlining enforcement, the legal battles, and the importance of banks proactively assessing their risk of redlining accusations. Len advises banks to conduct internal risk assessments and seek expert legal and consulting help if unfairly accused, while emphasizing the need for industry unity in opposing regulatory overreach. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

Len and Dean discuss the alarming issue of elder abuse in their 78th and 79th podcasts. Dean expresses concern, especially since he has elderly parents, and highlights recent statistics from FinCEN and the FBI on elder exploitation. Financial institutions reported over $27 billion in elder exploitation between June 2022 and June 2023. The abuse is categorized into elder scams and theft, with scams being more prevalent. The FBI's report for 2023 shows a significant increase in scams targeting individuals aged 60 and older, causing over $3.4 billion in losses. Dean recommends reviewing FinCEN and CFPB guidelines to combat elder financial exploitation and acknowledges the FBI's efforts in recovering some of the lost funds. Both agree on the seriousness of the issue and thank their listeners for tuning in. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In "Podcast 77: The Court Decides But it Ain't Over Till It's Over," Dean and Len discuss the recent Supreme Court ruling on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)'s funding, which upheld its constitutionality, much to the disappointment of many bankers who hoped for its dissolution. Despite this decision, other legal challenges to CFPB's regulations remain unresolved. Specifically, the podcast delves into ongoing litigation concerning Section 1071, which involves the CFPB's new rules for small business lending data collection. The discussion covers the timeline for compliance, the complex issues around additional data points required by the CFPB, and the high costs of implementation. Len advises small business lenders to begin preparing their data collection systems and utilize the "free look period" to test these systems before mandatory reporting begins. The conversation highlights the ongoing legal battles and regulatory challenges facing the financial industry. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

This podcast discusses flood regulations for institutions lending money on properties. While there are many federal laws, some key ones being the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 and the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973, institutions must comply to avoid penalties. This includes checking if a property is in a flood hazard area, notifying the borrower and requiring flood insurance if necessary, properly handling escrows and monitoring, and even force-placing insurance if the borrower lets it lapse. Common violations include weak internal controls, issues with contents coverage, mistakes in timing and notification, miscalculations of coverage amounts, and failing to properly monitor or force-place insurance. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this podcast episode, Dean and Len discuss the complexities surrounding redlining accusations faced by banks, particularly focusing on the implications of the 2020 Census data. Len explains that the increase in the number of census tracts and changes in their minority status have created challenges for banks, especially since these changes were announced late into 2022. He highlights how these complications can impact a bank's compliance with anti-redlining regulations, as loan applications could be affected by tract status changes during processing. Len advises banks to proactively analyze the impact of new and altered tracts on their lending practices to better prepare for examinations and mitigate potential criticisms. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this podcast episode, Dean and Len discuss the timely issue of appraisal discrimination and bias within the context of Fair Lending. Dean highlights the FFIEC's recent guidance on mitigating risks related to discriminatory practices in property valuations and ensuring credible appraisals. Appraisal bias, which can result in minorities receiving lower property valuations, affects credit access and terms and violates anti-discrimination laws like the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and Fair Housing Act. The guidance is relevant for both financial institutions and examiners, emphasizing the importance of internal controls and compliance to avoid legal risks and ensure fair lending practices. Dean provides practical suggestions for lenders, including thorough vendor due diligence, risk assessments, training on bias red flags, and establishing clear processes for appraisal reviews and complaints. Both hosts stress the necessity for financial institutions to address and mitigate appraisal bias actively. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In Podcast 73, Dean and Len discuss a recent preliminary injunction issued by a Texas federal judge against the 2023 Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) rule. This injunction has halted the implementation of the new rule, pending legal proceedings. The court found substantial grounds suggesting the federal banking regulators may have exceeded their authority in expanding CRA evaluation markets and including deposits and other retail banking products under the regulation. The court's decision highlighted four key reasons for this view: the inconsistent interpretation of "entire community" in the new rule, the questionable authority to regulate beyond credit activities, the application of the "Major Questions Doctrine," and a substantial likelihood of plaintiff's success with irreparable harm due to compliance costs. Dean and Len predict a favorable outcome for the plaintiffs, with the case likely progressing to the Supreme Court, prolonging the legal process into 2025. They advise banks to comply with the current rule and suggest banks compute and target the proposed calibrated benchmarks for at least a satisfactory performance rating on the Lending Test. The episode ends with Dean and Len emphasizing the importance of staying informed and prepared as the situation develops. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

This episode of the podcast, focusing on climate risk as an emerging regulatory compliance issue, features a dialogue between Len and Dean. They discuss how climate-related risks, especially in the financial sector, have gained attention in recent years. New York State is highlighted for its proactive stance in providing guidance for financial institutions on managing these risks, including a section published on the NYDFS website. Dean emphasizes the lack of specific regulations but notes earlier general principles issued by the OCC regarding climate-related financial risk management. They also delve into the use of data and mapping techniques to assess climate risks at a granular level, stressing the importance of geocoding records and correlating them with climate hazards. The discussion concludes with an emphasis on financial institutions starting to identify and assess climate risks, considering both physical and transition risks, and integrating these into their overall risk management frameworks. The episode promotes their consulting services for assisting institutions in managing climate risks. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

Podcast #71 discusses how banks can estimate their performance under the new Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) rules. Len highlights bankers' concerns about the increased difficulty in passing the CRA exam with the new rules, which predict a significant rise in failure rates. He emphasizes the importance of the Retail Lending Test, explaining that failing this test results in an overall unsatisfactory CRA rating.To estimate their performance, banks should first focus on the Retail Lending Test and identify their Retail Lending Assessment Areas. The next steps involve determining benchmarks based on geographic and borrower distribution tests and applying multipliers to create calibrated benchmarks for a low satisfactory rating. Banks then need to compute their penetration rates in different income tracts and compare them to these benchmarks.Dean asks about data sources for these calculations, and Len suggests using HMDA and CRA data, along with FFIEC demographic files. He also notes that GeoDataVision will publish relevant benchmarks on their website for further guidance. The podcast ends with an invitation for future topic suggestions from listeners. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

Episode 70 of "Compliance 911, show" titled "2024 Regulatory Hot Topics," discusses the major regulatory challenges facing financial institutions in 2024. Hosts Len and Dean mark their 70th episode, reflecting on various topics covered over the series. They delve into significant regulatory changes including the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) reforms and Dodd-Frank 1071 rules, highlighting their impact on banks and the ongoing lawsuits challenging these regulations. Additionally, they touch on proposed changes to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), slow progress in Anti-Money Laundering rulemaking, and new standards for Automated Valuation Models (AVMs). The episode also covers updates in Fair Lending, digital adaptations for FDIC signs, and mortgage-related regulations, emphasizing their significance for financial institutions in 2024. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting  

Episode 68 of the podcast discusses the investigation process for Electronic Funds Transfers (EFT) under the Electronic Fund Transfer Act. The hosts, Dean and Len, emphasize the importance of consumer protection in EFT and remittance transfers, outlining the process for consumers to dispute unauthorized or incorrect transactions. They stress that financial institutions must promptly begin investigating disputes upon receiving notice, either oral or written, from the consumer. The regulation mandates strict timelines for these investigations, with institutions having 10 business days to investigate, extendable to 45 or 90 days for certain cases if provisional credit is provided. The episode highlights the need for financial institutions to be aware of and comply with these regulations, including the application of Regulation E to Person to Person (P2P) payments. The hosts conclude by encouraging listeners to stay informed about their institution's error resolution processes and suggesting future podcast topics. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

Podcast #69, "The Coming Perfect Storm," features a discussion between Dean and Len Suzio about new regulatory challenges for the banking sector. Len highlights the implications of two key regulations: Section 1071 of the Dodd-Frank Act and the new Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) rule. Section 1071 requires detailed reporting of small business lending data, including race and ethnicity of borrowers, to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The revised CRA rule emphasizes the impact of fair lending issues on a bank's CRA rating and introduces more stringent criteria for evaluating discriminatory or illegal credit practices. Len expresses concerns about the potential misuse of small business lending data and the new CRA rule's assessment areas, which could unfairly impact banks' operations and regulatory compliance. He notes that these changes could lead to more aggressive regulatory approaches, especially in light of the Department of Justice's "Anti-redlining Initiative." The podcast concludes with an acknowledgment of the seriousness of these regulatory changes and their potential impact on the banking industry. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

"The New CRA" features a discussion between Dean Stockford and Len Suzio about the recent changes in the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) regulations. Len has dedicated significant time to understanding the new CRA rule, which is a lengthy 1,494 pages, and has even published articles on the topic. He describes the new rule as an "unmitigated disaster for the banking industry," a conclusion drawn not from his personal opinion but from the regulators' own data. The new CRA rule significantly increases the failure rate of CRA exams for banks, estimated to be 10-12%, up from the long-term average of 1.2%. This increase is attributed to the new Retail Lending Test included in the rule. The new rule introduces additional assessment areas for banks, leading to evaluations in markets far removed from their physical branches. This creates competitive disadvantages for banks in these remote areas, as they are evaluated against the same benchmarks as local lenders. The failure rates in these new assessment areas are alarmingly high, with estimates of 22.4% for Retail Lending Assessment Areas and 28.8% for Outside Retail Lending Areas. Len highlights that the complexity and size of the new rule, along with the extensive data manipulations required for compliance, may be overwhelming for many. He cites quotes from regulators that explicitly state that the increased failure rate was a deliberate intent of the regulators to "raise the bar" for CRA performance evaluations. Dean concludes the podcast by expressing that listeners will likely be apprehensive yet eager to learn more about the changes in the new CRA. Both hosts encourage listeners to send in suggestions for future podcast topics. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this podcast, Dean and Len discuss the September guidance from the CFPB concerning the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), credit denials, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). The guidance emphasizes that lenders using AI for credit decisions must provide specific and accurate reasons for adverse actions. This includes updates to sample adverse action forms and checklists to reflect actual reasons for credit denials or changes in conditions. The discussion also touches on potential updates to Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) data collection to align with these expanded reasons for adverse action. Dean advises lenders to update ECOA assessments, review policies, procedures, forms, and ensure compliance and substantiation in credit decisions, especially in the context of AI and complex algorithms.   Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In Podcast #65 titled "The New CRA", Dean and Len discuss the recent changes introduced in the new Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) published just over a week ago. Len highlights three significant changes: the reclassification of bank categories based on their assets; the transformation in assessment areas which now include "facility-based assessment areas", "retail lending" assessment areas, and "outside retail lending areas"; and the modification in performance tests and standards. Particularly, the changes in bank categories mean that small banks are those with assets less than $600 million, intermediate banks have assets ranging from $600 million to less than $2 billion, and large banks have assets of $2 billion or more. The new assessment areas represent a departure from the traditional model, where every assessment area had to contain at least one branch. The performance tests and standards, especially for small banks, may see unannounced changes in benchmarks. Len delves deeper into the impact of these changes, emphasizing the controversial nature of the new retail lending and outside retail lending areas. He details the criteria that define these areas, stressing that they might face legal challenges. Regarding performance tests, while small banks will ostensibly continue to be evaluated based on current tests, Len anticipates that they might be unofficially held to the new standards. He explains the "Retail Lending test" applied to intermediate and large banks, including a lending volume screen and distribution tests. The podcast concludes with Len's assertion that small banks, despite seemingly escaping significant changes, might still be substantially affected by these calibrated benchmarks in the new CRA. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In episode 64 of the Compliance 911 podcast, hosts Len Suzio and Dean Stockford discuss the intricacies of Reg. CC, a regulation that deals with funds availability. Dean emphasizes the importance of understanding the definitions within regulations as the same word or phrase might carry different meanings in different contexts. He goes on to explain that Reg. CC was implemented to enforce the provisions of the Expedited Funds Availability Act of 1987, which set the rules for when a bank had to make deposited funds available to depositors. The regulation is highly technical and mandates strict timing provisions based on factors such as the nature of the item deposited, where and to whom the deposit was made, and the bank's funds availability policy. Dean delves deeper into the timing specifics, noting that funds availability begins at the start of a “business day.” He lists types of deposits that must be made available on the next business day, such as cash, electronic payments, U.S. Treasury checks, and certain other checks. Len, intrigued by the strictness of the rules, inquires about any potential exceptions. Dean highlights that banks can place Exception Holds, also known as Safeguard Holds, to mitigate risks. These holds allow financial institutions to manage fraud, but they must adhere to specific protocols, including providing customers with written notices detailing reasons for the extended hold. The episode concludes with Dean urging listeners to thoroughly understand Reg. CC. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In the podcast, Len Suzio from GeoDataVision LLC and Dean Stockford of M&M Consulting delve into the topic of CRA (Community Reinvestment Act) Assessment Area delineation. Len emphasizes the critical importance of banks updating their CRA assessment area maps, particularly in light of changes to census tracts that were officially adopted by the FFIEC on January 1, 2022. He is alarmed to find that many banks haven't updated their maps, which is a mandatory requirement. Len further elaborates on the "performance context" in the CRA regulation, which is pivotal in determining banks' performance expectations. This context includes the unique characteristics of the bank, the demographics of the communities within the CRA assessment area, and the credit markets in local communities.   Len explains the various CRA lending tests, such as the Assessment Area ratio, the conspicuous gaps in contiguous tracts test, the LMI tracts penetration test, and the “borrower characteristics” test. He emphasizes that the configuration of the assessment area can significantly impact performance standards, as examiners will evaluate demographic and credit market variables. Len also touches upon the regulatory flexibility banks have in defining their assessment areas and urges banks to review and evaluate their current areas to avoid inflating their CRA performance standards. The conversation concludes with Len and Dean encouraging listeners to take the topic seriously and consider the implications of their assessment area delineations.   Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting  

Episode 62 of the podcast delves into the intricacies of Electronic Funds Transfers, primarily focusing on the basics of Regulation E (Reg. E) Error Resolution provisions and their stringent timelines for addressing claims. Dean Stockford and Len Suzio begin by discussing the impact of their previous podcasts, with Dean emphasizing the importance of understanding the Electronic Fund Transfer Act, which establishes the basic rights, responsibilities, and liabilities of consumers and financial institutions engaging in electronic fund transfers. Dean outlines the specific definitions of "Electronic Fund Transfer," explaining that it includes activities such as Point-of-sale transfers, ATM transfers, direct deposits or withdrawals, telephone-initiated transfers, and debit card transactions. He further elaborates on the definition of "error" in the context of electronic fund transfers and stresses the immediacy required in investigating these errors. Dean highlights common misconceptions about error notifications, clarifying that financial institutions must start investigations immediately upon receiving an oral notification and not necessarily wait for written confirmation. The episode wraps up with a detailed walkthrough of the steps and timelines involved in resolving errors, emphasizing the importance of provisional credit, extensions for investigations, and the final resolutions based on the findings. The podcast episode serves as an informative session aimed at demystifying the complex world of electronic fund transfers, ensuring that consumers are well-informed about their rights and the responsibilities of financial institutions. Dean and Len's conversation underscores the significance of timely error resolution and the stringent provisions in place to safeguard consumers. Their discussion provides valuable insights into the potential pitfalls and best practices for financial institutions when dealing with electronic fund transfer errors, ensuring transparency and accountability. Towards the end, they express gratitude to their audience and encourage feedback for future topics, underscoring their commitment to addressing relevant and impactful subjects in the realm of regulatory compliance.

On a broadcast hosted by Dean Stockford, Len Suzio highlights the increase in adverse Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) ratings for banks in the first half of 2023. An article from Standard & Poor indicated that 12 banks received less than satisfactory performance ratings, a jump compared to 14 for the entirety of 2022. Len believes that this rise can be attributed to regulators enforcing stricter performance standards. Evidence for this includes the proposed new CRA Rule, which intends to set higher CRA performance standards. An analysis by bank regulators shows that the new rule would result in a significant increase in the CRA exam failure rate. Len emphasizes that the vagueness in the currently applied performance standards would allow regulators to implement the proposed calibrated standards without officially announcing them. Another notable factor impacting these ratings is the Fair Lending issue and the anti-redlining initiative. Len suggests that banks be aware of these changes and regularly self-evaluate their compliance with these standards.   Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

Len and Dean focus on Electronic Funds Transfers, particularly person-to-person (P2P) payment apps like Venmo, Apple Pay, and Zelle. Dean elaborates on the December 2021 update by the CFPB to the Reg. E FAQs. These guidelines stress that P2P payments, when they involve certain methods like a consumer's debit card, are subject to the provisions of EFT-Regulation E. The Electronic Funds Transaction Act (EFTA) and Regulation E define an EFT and set the framework for how EFTs involving consumers should work. Dean also clarifies that the rights, liabilities, and rules for users of these apps are dictated by the EFTA and its rule Reg. E. They delve into the protections of Reg. E, detailing how financial institutions need to handle disputes and error reports from consumers in strict timeframes. The duo wraps up by emphasizing that any P2P transactions that fit the EFT definition are governed by the EFTA and Reg. E. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this podcast episode, Dean and Len delve into pivotal questions concerning regulatory compliance in the banking sector. Len highlights the two primary questions every compliance and risk officer should ponder: whether their lending performance meets the expectations of examiners and if the performance is statistically significant.  The conversation comes against the backdrop of changes to the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Rule and the Department of Justice's recent focus on the "Anti-Redlining Initiative." Len breaks down the proposed CRA rule, emphasizing performance benchmarks and their significance for banks to ascertain their ratings even before official examinations.  Transitioning to Fair Lending and redlining, the duo discusses the intricacies of "statistical significance" and how it gauges a bank's performance, especially when lending in majority-minority tracts. Despite the challenges, Len elucidates that unfavorable results don't automatically doom a bank. Factors like defining the market accurately and valid explanations for performance trends play a role. Both Dean and Len underscore the episode's timeliness, given the prevailing regulatory atmosphere. They hope listeners find the complex topic both engaging and enlightening. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this podcast episode, Len and Dean discuss the challenges compliance officers face in keeping up with regulatory changes and guidance. They mention various regulations and topics that have been covered in previous episodes, such as CRA, Fair Lending, Redlining, BSA, AI, and more. They emphasize the importance of staying informed about regulatory changes and offer some techniques for compliance professionals to do so, including creating a regulatory calendar, attending conferences, reviewing internal processes, using compliance software, and building a team. Dean then provides a specific example of recent guidance from the CFPB in June 2023 regarding the use of AI and chatbots by financial institutions. Although the CFPB hasn't released new regulations, they discuss the risks associated with chatbot usage from a UDAAP (Unfair, Deceptive, or Abusive Acts or Practices) perspective. Dean advises compliance officers to gain a comprehensive understanding of their institution's use of chatbots, identify and discuss risks associated with them, ensure adequate testing is performed, provide updated training on compliance risks, and consider updating the complaint intake form to include chatbot interactions. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this podcast episode, Len Suzio and Dean Stockford discuss the implications of the DOJ's “Combatting Redlining Initiative" that was announced in 2021 and the ensuing increase in redlining referrals from bank regulators to the DOJ in 2022. Len believes this issue represents a significant regulatory compliance risk for banks, despite not being convinced of the DOJ's claim of widespread redlining practices today. Len's primary concern is the alleged misuse of the concept of Reasonably Expected Market Areas (REMA) by regulators, which, in his view, has misleadingly expanded a bank's Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) assessment area to include markets that are not practical for a bank to serve. This has been a factor in the record-breaking redlining referrals by bank regulators to the DOJ. Len further explores commonalities among redlining cases, which mostly center on banks' inadequate procedures for identifying redlining risk exposure. He asserts that all lenders should promptly review their systems and procedures for identifying and monitoring potential redlining situations, ensuring they're not only adequate but also consistently implemented. The topic of REMAs versus CRA Assessment Areas is expanded, indicating that lenders should consider these as potentially different and evaluate their standing in relation to each. Len and Dean discuss key factors for REMA consideration, as described in the 2023 Fair Lending examination procedures, and the potential consequences if a bank's lending in REMA minority communities is statistically significantly low. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting  

In this podcast episode, Len Suzio and Dean Stockford discuss the unregulated use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the banking industry. Dean brings up how, amidst the focus on fair lending and Unfair, Deceptive, or Abusive Acts or Practices (UDAAP), there have been increasing concerns about potential bias in AI systems. Specifically, red flags have been raised about scoring systems built into the lending process and the potential for inadvertent redlining in marketing systems. Both Len and Dean concur on the importance of understanding and regulating the use of AI in banking systems. Dean suggests several proactive measures for financial institutions (FIs) in anticipation of regulatory exams. He recommends conducting an enterprise-wide inventory of all AI-utilizing systems and understanding their specific applications, starting with BSA/AML and Fraud departments, followed by Lending/Underwriting, Marketing, and Human Resources. In addition, he urges FIs to conduct fair lending data analyses and risk assessments with specific emphasis on AI in lending/underwriting systems. To conclude, Dean emphasizes the need for management to understand underwriting systems through thorough testing and analysis, and document vendors' explanations and testing results, to gain a comprehensive view of the risk these systems pose to their institutions. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting  

In this podcast episode, Dean and Len discuss the implications of the new Section 1071 rule, which extends beyond the banking community. Len highlights that the number of reporters under Section 1071 is estimated to be four times greater than under the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). They focus on the impact of Section 1071 on CRA reporting. Len mentions that the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), Federal Reserve Board (FRB), and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) announced their intention to replace the reporting of small business and small farm loans under CRA with Section 1071 reporting. Additionally, the definition of a small business loan will change, and the Section 1071 definition will replace the CRA definition. Len emphasizes that this change allows for unlimited loan sizes based on the size of the business, not the loan. This has significant implications for CRA. Furthermore, Len discusses how Section 1071 may affect community development lending under CRA and raises questions about how the regulators will treat loans reported under both Section 1071 and CRA. Len also mentions some aspects of Section 1071, such as protected demographic information and reporting the course of action for small business loans, that will not impact CRA. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting  

In a podcast, hosts Len and Dean discussed the heightened focus on Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) within financial institutions. They highlighted the regulatory pressure spurred by issues like compliance, bank failures, Climate Risk, ESG factors, and political influences. Dean pointed out common gaps in ERM policies, such as lack of coverage for technology systems, strategic plans, and talent management.  He advised that ERM policies should emphasize data and technology structures for reporting, mention strategic plans, and reference "Talent Management" for skill enhancement. The conversation concluded with a recommendation for risk managers and senior executives to review and enhance their ERM policies based on these insights to withstand future regulatory scrutiny. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting  

In this podcast episode, Dean and Len discuss the Section 1071 Rule, which is the hottest regulatory topic in the financial industry. Len provides an overview of the rule and its implications for lenders. Covered lenders, which include any financial institution that originates 100 or more covered loans for two consecutive years, will need to maintain a data collection system to report on their commercial lending activity. Len also emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between covered and non-covered transactions and being careful about protected demographic information, such as the race, ethnicity, and sex of the principals of the business. The podcast also touches on other important requirements under Section 1071, such as capturing the NAICs code for borrowers and the number of employees and reporting on all applications, not just originated, refinanced, or renewed loans. The episode concludes by encouraging listeners to tune into a more comprehensive 90-minute broadcast on Section 1071. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

This podcast episode discusses Fair Lending and focuses on examiner comments and specific examples of issues from regulators. The hosts, Len and Dean, discuss a scenario where a Compliance Officer or Fair Lending Officer in a community bank reviews loans for evidence of disparate treatment (Redlining). They find a series of portfolio loans where the borrowers received more favorable terms in the form of a better rate, and in each case, all were white men applying alone. Upon further review, they find that these exceptions were never submitted to the loan committee for approval, which is required by policy. The episode then lists several examiner comments on Fair Lending, including appropriate documentation of exceptions within files, tracking mechanisms for exceptions, and reviewing exception log reports periodically. They caution against the quality of fair lending risk assessments, which must include sufficient qualitative and quantitative detail as to the overall risk profile of the institution.   Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this episode of Podcast 51, hosts Dean and Len discuss the complexities of community development under the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). They outline the four different definitions that qualify for community development credit: affordable housing, community services, economic development, and revitalization/stabilization. Len provides an in-depth explanation of each definition and shares tips for maximizing community development credit. They also discuss common misconceptions about claiming credit for community development activities outside assessment areas. Len emphasizes the importance of claiming credit for all qualified community development activities, as it can contribute to a higher performance rating under CRA regulations. This episode is a valuable refresher for anyone seeking clarity on the intricacies of community development under the CRA. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In Episode 50 Len and Dean explore the issue of Fair Lending as it relates to appraisal bias. This emerging issue can lead to illegal discrimination within the appraisal process, impacting generational wealth building for minority consumers. Len and Dean discuss appraiser independence, the 2008 financial crisis, and how lenders can protect themselves against appraisal bias and potential liability under ECOA and FHA. Suggestions include thorough vendor due diligence, incorporating appraisal bias risks into fair lending risk assessments, training personnel on fair lending and appraisal bias red flags, and establishing clear processes for reconsiderations and appraisal complaints. Tune in to this insightful conversation as Len and Dean delve into the complexities of appraisal bias and its significant impact on consumers and the lending industry.   Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In Podcast 49, Dean Stockford and Len Suzio discuss the impending changes to the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) and the imminent publication of the Dodd-Frank Section 1071 Rule. The CRA Rule's publication date remains uncertain, while the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is under court order to publish the Section 1071 Rule by March 31. Len notes that the 1071 Rule, which will have profound implications for the financial services industry, has been 15 months in the making and is expected to be quite controversial. Unlike CRA, Section 1071 is a reporting mandate, much like the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) regulations, and will be used for both fair lending and CRA purposes. Data collection and reporting requirements under Section 1071 will be more onerous than those under CRA, and it will cover a larger number of institutions.   Len expects the final 1071 Rule to be almost identical to the proposed rule, which will be challenging for banks and other financial institutions. As for the CRA rule, its finalization could be delayed for several reasons, including the many comments and criticisms received and potential legal action by the banking community. Furthermore, the prudential regulators may be waiting to see what Section 1071 looks like, as it will have a significant impact on CRA regulations. Len believes the final CRA rule won't be published until sometime late in the spring, but nothing would surprise him. Both Dean and Len plan to collaborate on an education series to help financial institutions understand the implications and requirements of Section 1071 and the new CRA Rule after their publication.   Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting  

In this podcast episode, Len Suzio and Dean Stockford discuss the basics of the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and the importance of having a sound BSA program. They break down the extensive provisions of the BSA into two parts - the Basic Stuff (BS) and the Additional (A), which is pre and post 9/11. They also highlight the areas of high risk for non-compliance, including suspicious activity monitoring, SAR referral programs, and customer due diligence. This podcast is informative for those who want to understand the basics of BSA and its importance in maintaining safety and soundness in financial institutions. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In this podcast, Len Suzio discusses his concerns about the threat posed to banks by the misuse of the concept of Reasonably Expected Market Areas (REMA) by regulators in their fight against redlining. The DOJ's "Combatting redlining initiative" launched in October 2021 is one such example. Len highlights that the concept of REMA has no origin in law or regulation, making it vague and open to interpretation, which can lead to potential abuse. Regulators often determine a bank's REMA based on factors like marketing campaigns, market plans, media usage, and self-produced promotional materials. If a bank's REMA is found to be larger than its Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) assessment area, the bank's lending outside its CRA-defined community could be subject to scrutiny for redlining. Len shared his concern when federal examiners revealed that they use entire MSAs (Metropolitan Statistical Areas) or MDs (Metropolitan Divisions) as the basis for every bank's REMA, no matter the size of the bank. This approach makes almost every bank with an urban area nearby vulnerable to redlining accusations if they are not lending in the urban area. The podcast concludes that this issue is alarming for banks, and they should be aware of the potential consequences of how their REMA is determined. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

In Episode 46 of the podcast series, Len and Dean discuss the 2023 regulatory hot topics facing financial institutions. They touch on multiple re-presentment fees, Dodd-Frank 1071 and its implications for small business data collection, and the forthcoming Cyber Security reporting requirements under the Critical Infrastructure Act of 2022. Climate risk is also identified as a significant area of focus for financial institutions, even for those below the $100 billion asset threshold. Lastly, they highlight fair lending, fraud, and potential changes to Reg. E as additional areas of interest for 2023. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of being proactive and staying informed about evolving regulations and guidance. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting

This podcast deals with the big problems in the proposed CRA Rule. In it we discuss the 3 possible grounds for legal challenge if the Rule should be adopted as proposed. We also talk about the 3 most significant impacts of the proposed rule. Brought to you by GeoDataVision and M&M Consulting