Financial regulations

The National Credit Union Administration caught flak after it approved raising the threshold for appraisals on commercial real estate loans to $1 million.

Freedom Northwest in Idaho hopes a proposal from the NCUA will help it bring in more deposits to fund a fast-growing mortgage business. Banks are crying foul.

Kathy Kraninger, the bureau's director, is in a standoff with Democrats about her claim that the agency cannot supervise institutions under the Military Lending Act.

As the CFPB moves closer to updating its debt collection regulations, revising restrictions on phone calls and other communications with consumers must be a priority.

In her first policy speech since being confirmed as the agency's director, Kathy Kraninger promised less focus on enforcement actions and more emphasis on consumer education.

Recent remarks from top officials at the FDIC and Fed suggest the agencies' recent impasse over reforming the Community Reinvestment Act may be ending.

The administration is sending conflicting signals on whether it has a plan to overhaul the housing finance system, further complicating an already complex debate.

Ocwen Financial subsidiary PHH Mortgage will pay a total of $750,000 to six military members and increase employee training to settle Department of Justice allegations that it conducted foreclosures that violated the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act.

Federal Reserve Board Gov. Lael Brainard said public comments demonstrate a desire among stakeholders for reforms to be implemented consistently across the Fed, OCC and FDIC.

A proposal allowing more lenders to skip outside appraisals could remove a hurdle to quick closings, but appraisers say they could be collateral damage.