07/30/2026
Today’s banking and business-lending update:
The Federal Reserve held its benchmark rate at 3.50%–3.75% in a 9–3 vote. The Cleveland, Minneapolis, and Dallas Fed presidents wanted a quarter-point increase.
For now, prime-based variable loans and business lines of credit generally remain unchanged. But that split vote tells us higher rates are still on the table.
Regional banks are also showing renewed commercial-loan activity. Fifth Third reported organic loan production, KeyCorp’s commercial and industrial loans increased, and Citizens reported new business borrowing and higher credit-line use.
That may create more lending options—but weak files will not suddenly get approved. Businesses still need solid cash flow, current financial statements, a clear use of funds, and complete documentation.
The Federal Reserve also placed Iuka State Bank in Illinois under a written agreement after examiners found weaknesses in lending, credit-risk controls, capital, and liquidity. The agreement specifically requires better review of financial statements, global cash flow, ability to repay, collateral values, and updated borrower information.
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