OCC Approves Final Rule and Policy Statement on Bank Mergers

WASHINGTON-The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today approved a final rule updating its regulations for business combinations involving national banks and federal savings associations and a policy statement clarifying its review of applications under the Bank Merger Act (BMA).

The final rulemaking is part of the OCC's effort to enhance transparency around its process of reviewing transactions under the BMA. It also provides additional guidance to stakeholders around the OCC's review of applications. The policy statement specifically discusses:

• general principles for the OCC's review of applications under the BMA, including:
  • indicators for applications that are more likely to withstand scrutiny and be approved expeditiously; and
  • indicators for applications that raise supervisory or regulatory concerns which most likely need to be resolved prior to OCC approval;
• the OCC's consideration of the financial stability; managerial and financial resources and future prospects; and convenience and needs statutory factors under the BMA; and
• the OCC's decision process for extending the public comment period or holding a public meeting.

"The diversity of the banking system is critical to the nation's communities, consumers and economy," said Acting Comptroller Michael J. Hsu. "This final rule and policy statement provide clarity and transparency around the OCC's consideration of bank mergers to improve outcomes to benefit communities, enhance competition, and support a diverse banking system."

Related Link

• Federal Register Notice (PDF)