Commercial banking

Goldman Sachs Group posted a surprise jump in its trading business, rounding out a stellar quarter for Wall Street’s biggest banks.

The San Francisco bank reported a 26% increase in its third-quarter earnings, thanks to robust single-family, multifamily and commercial real estate loan activity in New York, Boston and its home city.

Climate First Bank in St. Petersburg, Florida, is offering loans for condominium improvements that will reduce carbon emissions while fortifying buildings against serious weather events. More banks may implement similar programs in the years ahead.

Commercial borrowers are leaning more often on alternative lenders that provide better speed and flexibility. At the same time, some banks are turning their backs on what has long been a bread-and-butter business.

Many banks are still making loans tied to the scandal-plagued benchmark despite years of preparation for its demise. The end of 2021 could prove hectic as bankers scramble to implement changes and explain them to commercial borrowers.

In the wake of Hurricane Ida, the latest storm to batter the Gulf Coast, John Hairston is grappling with the consequences of a warming planet. He suggests that it's imperative for banks and their regulators to be part of the solution.

In a recent securitization with Capital One, RBC Capital Markets gave a bigger role to small firms owned by minorities and women. It’s one example of how banks are striving to be more inclusive.

Alastair Borthwick, the president of global commercial banking, will succeed Paul Donofrio, who is transitioning to a new role as head of sustainable finance. The company also appointed three women to its executive leadership team.

The Rhode Island bank has entered into an agreement to acquire JMP Group, which focuses on the health care, technology, financial services and real estate sectors.

The $1 billion bond, which follows similar issuances by Citigroup, JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America and Truist Financial, gives a big role to broker-dealers owned by minorities, women and disabled veterans.