Summary:

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today announced that it is seeking comments from interested parties on all aspects of the deposit insurance application process. The request is part of the FDIC's efforts to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability.

Statement of Applicability to Institutions With Total Assets Under $1 Billion: This Financial Institution Letter applies to all existing and proposed insured depository institutions.

Highlights:

• The FDIC is responsible for maintaining stability and public confidence in the nation's financial system by insuring deposits, examining and supervising financial institutions for safety and soundness and consumer protection, making large and complex financial institutions resolvable, and managing receiverships.
  • As part of this mission, the FDIC grants deposit insurance to newly formed institutions and to operating institutions that are not currently insured.
• In addition to requesting information regarding any steps the FDIC can take to improve the deposit insurance application process, the Request for Information also solicits information regarding any aspect of the application process that discourages potential applicants from initiating or completing the process.
• Among other topics, the Request for Information also solicits comments regarding whether there are:
  • Ways in which the FDIC could or should modify the application process for traditional community banks.
  • Ways in which the FDIC could or should support the continuing evolution of emerging technology and fintech companies as part of its application review process, and whether there are particular risks associated with any such proposals.
  • Legal, regulatory, economic, technological, or other factors separate from the application process that discourage potential applications.
  • Any other suggestions that the FDIC should consider for improving the effectiveness, efficiency, or transparency of the application process, or for addressing any other interests or concerns of stakeholders relative to the application process.
• Comments on the Request for Information will be accepted for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register.
• Additional resources are available on the FDIC website dedicated to applications for deposit insurance .

Distribution:

• FDIC-Insured Depository Institutions

Suggested Routing:

• Chief Executive Officer
• Chief Financial Officer

Paper copies of FDIC financial institution letters may be obtained through the FDIC's Public Information Center, 3501 Fairfax Drive, E-1002, Arlington, VA 22226 (1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200).