PART 303 - FILING PROCEDURES

Authority:

12 U.S.C. 378, 1463, 1467a, 1813, 1815, 1817, 1818, 1819(a) (Seventh and Tenth), 1820, 1823, 1828, 1831i, 1831e, 1831o, 1831p-1, 1831w, 1831z, 1835a, 1843(l), 3104, 3105, 3108, 3207, 5412; 15 U.S.C. 1601-1607.

Source:

67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, unless otherwise noted.

§ 303.0 Scope.

(a) This part describes the procedures to be followed by both the FDIC and applicants with respect to applications, requests, or notices (filings) required to be filed by statute or regulation. Additional details concerning processing are explained in related FDIC statements of policy.

(b) Additional application procedures may be found in the following FDIC regulations:

(1) 12 CFR part 327—Assessments (Request for review of assessment risk classification);

(2) 12 CFR part 328—Advertisement of Membership (Application for temporary waiver of advertising requirements);

(3) 12 CFR part 345—Community Reinvestment (CRA strategic plans and requests for designation as a wholesale or limited purpose institution);

Subpart A - Rules of General Applicability

§ 303.1 Scope.

Subpart A prescribes the general procedures for submitting filings to the FDIC which are required by statute or regulation. This subpart also prescribes the procedures to be followed by the FDIC, applicants and interested parties during the process of considering a filing, including public notice and comment. This subpart explains the availability of expedited processing for eligible depository institutions (defined in § 303.2(r)). Certain terms used throughout this part are also defined in this subpart.

§ 303.2 Definitions.

Except as modified or otherwise defined in this part, terms used in this part that are defined in the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (12 U.S.C. 1811 et seq.) have the meanings provided in the Federal Deposit Insurance Act. Additional definitions of terms used in this part are as follows:

(a) Act or FDI Act means the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (12 U.S.C. 1811 et seq.).

(b) Adjusted part 324 total assets means adjusted 12 CFR part 324 total assets as calculated and reflected in the FDIC's Report of Examination.

(c) Adverse comment means any objection, protest, or other adverse written statement submitted by an interested party relative to a filing. The term adverse comment shall not include any comment concerning the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA), fair lending, consumer protection, or civil rights that the appropriate regional director or designee determines to be frivolous (for example, raising issues between the commenter and the applicant that have been resolved). The term adverse comment also shall not include any other comment that the appropriate regional director or designee determines to be frivolous (for example, a non-substantive comment submitted primarily as a means of delaying action on the filing).

(d) Amended order to pay means an order to forfeit and pay civil money penalties, the amount of which has been changed from that assessed in the original notice of assessment of civil money penalties.

(e) Applicant means a person or entity that submits a filing to the FDIC.

(f) Application means a submission requesting FDIC approval to engage in various corporate activities and transactions.

(g) Appropriate FDIC region and appropriate regional director mean, respectively, the FDIC region and the FDIC regional director which the FDIC designates as follows:

(1) When an institution or proposed institution that is the subject of a filing or administrative action is not and will not be part of a group of related institutions, the appropriate FDIC region for the institution and any individual associated with the institution is the FDIC region in which the institution or proposed institution is or will be located, and the appropriate regional director is the regional director for that region; or

(2) When an institution or proposed institution that is the subject of a filing or administrative action is or will be part of a group of related institutions, the appropriate FDIC region for the institution and any individual associated with the institution is the FDIC region in which the group's major policy and decision makers are located, or any other region the FDIC designates on a case-by-case basis, and the appropriate regional director is the regional director for that region.

(h) Associate director means any associate director of the Division of Supervision and Consumer Protection (DSC) or, in the event such title become obsolete, any official of equivalent authority within the division.

(i) Book capital means total equity capital which is comprised of perpetual preferred stock, common stock, surplus, undivided profits and capital reserves, as those items are defined in the instructions of the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) for the preparation of Consolidated Reports of Condition and Income for insured banks.

(j) Comment means any written statement of fact or opinion submitted by an interested party relative to a filing.

(k) Corporation or FDIC means the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

(l) CRA protest means any adverse comment from the public related to a pending filing which raises a negative issue relative to the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) (12 U.S.C. 2901 et seq.), whether or not it is labeled a protest and whether or not a hearing is requested.

(m) Deputy director means the deputy director of the Division of Supervision and Consumer Protection (DSC) or, in the event such title become obsolete, any official of equivalent or higher authority within the division.

(n) Deputy regional director means any deputy regional director of the Division of Supervision and Consumer Protection (DSC) or, in the event such title become obsolete, any official of equivalent authority within the same FDIC region of DSC.

(o) Appropriate FDIC office means the office designated by the appropriate regional director or designee.

(p) DSC means the Division of Supervision and Consumer Protection or, in the event the Division of Supervision and Consumer Protection is reorganized, such successor division.

(q) Director means the Director of the Division of Supervision and Consumer Protection (DSC) or, in the event such title become obsolete, any official of equivalent or higher authority within the division.

(r) Eligible depository institution means a depository institution that meets the following criteria:

(1) Received an FDIC-assigned composite rating of 1 or 2 under the Uniform Financial Institutions Rating System (UFIRS) as a result of its most recent federal or state examination;

(2) Received a satisfactory or better Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) rating from its primary federal regulator at its most recent examination, if the depository institution is subject to examination under part 345 of this chapter;

(3) Received a compliance rating of 1 or 2 from its primary federal regulator at its most recent examination;

(4) Is well-capitalized as defined in the appropriate capital regulation and guidance of the institution's primary federal regulator; and

(5) Is not subject to a cease and desist order, consent order, prompt corrective action directive, written agreement, memorandum of understanding, or other administrative agreement with its primary federal regulator or chartering authority.

(s) Filing means an application, notice or request submitted to the FDIC under this part.

(t) General Counsel means the head of the Legal Division of the FDIC or any official within the Legal Division exercising equivalent authority for purposes of this part.

(u) Insider means a person who is or is proposed to be a director, officer, organizer, or incorporator of an applicant; a shareholder who directly or indirectly controls 10 percent or more of any class of the applicant's outstanding voting stock; or the associates or interests of any such person.

(v) Institution-affiliated party shall have the same meaning as provided in section 3(u) of the Act (12 U.S.C. 1813(u)).

(w) Notice means a submission notifying the FDIC that a depository institution intends to engage in or has commenced certain corporate activities or transactions.

(x) Notice to primary regulator means the notice described in section 8(a)(2)(A) of the Act concerning termination of deposit insurance (12 U.S.C. 1818(a)(2)(A)).

(y) Regional counsel means a regional counsel of the Legal Division or, in the event the title becomes obsolete, any official of equivalent authority within the Legal Division.

(z) Regional director means any regional director in the Division of Supervision and Consumer Protection (DSC), or in the event such title become obsolete, any official of equivalent authority within the division.

(aa) [Reserved]

(bb) Standard conditions means the conditions that the FDIC may impose as a routine matter when approving a filing, whether or not the applicant has agreed to their inclusion. The following conditions, or variations thereof, are standard conditions:

(1) That the applicant has obtained all necessary and final approvals from the appropriate federal or state authority or other appropriate authority;

(2) That if the transaction does not take effect within a specified time period, or unless, in the meantime, a request for an extension of time has been approved, the consent granted shall expire at the end of the specified time period;

(3) That until the conditional commitment of the FDIC becomes effective, the FDIC retains the right to alter, suspend or withdraw its commitment should any interim development be deemed to warrant such action; and

(4) In the case of a merger transaction (as defined in ¶ 303.61(a) of this part), including a corporate reorganization, that the proposed transaction not be consummated before the 30th calendar day (or shorter time period as may be prescribed by the FDIC with the concurrence of the Attorney General) after the date of the order approving the merger transaction.

(cc) Tier 1 capital shall have the same meaning as provided in § 324.2 of this chapter.

(dd) Total assets shall have the same meaning as provided in § 324.401(g) of this chapter.

(ee) FDIC-supervised institution means any entity for which the FDIC is the appropriate Federal banking agency pursuant to section 3(q) of the FDI Act, 12 U.S.C. 1813(q).

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 68 FR 50459, Aug. 21, 2003; 78 FR 55470, Sept. 10, 2013; 83 FR 17739, Apr. 24, 2018; 85 FR 3243, Jan. 21, 2020; 85 FR 72555, Nov. 13, 2020]

§ 303.3 General filing procedures.

Unless stated otherwise, filings should be submitted to the appropriate FDIC office. Forms and instructions for submitting filings may be obtained from any FDIC regional director. If no form is prescribed, the filing should be in writing; be signed by the applicant or a duly authorized agent; and contain a concise statement of the action requested. For specific filing and content requirements, consult the appropriate subparts of this part. The FDIC may require the applicant to submit additional information.

§ 303.4 Computation of time.

For purposes of this part, and except as otherwise specifically provided, the FDIC begins computing the relevant period on the day after an event occurs (e.g., the day after a substantially complete filing is received by the FDIC or the day after publication begins) through the last day of the relevant period. When the last day is a Saturday, Sunday or federal holiday, the period runs until the end of the next business day.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 68 FR 50459, Aug. 21, 2003]

§ 303.5 Effect of Community Reinvestment Act performance on filings.

Among other factors, the FDIC takes into account the record of performance under the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) of each applicant in considering a filing for approval of:

(a) The establishment of a domestic branch;

(b) The relocation of the bank's main office or a domestic branch;

(c) The relocation of an insured branch of a foreign bank;

(d) A transaction subject to the Bank Merger Act; and

(e) Deposit insurance.

§ 303.6 Investigations and examinations.

The FDIC may examine or investigate and evaluate facts related to any filing under this chapter to the extent necessary to reach an informed decision and take any action necessary or appropriate under the circumstances.

§ 303.7 Public notice requirements.

(a) General. The public must be provided with prior notice of a filing to establish a domestic branch, relocate a domestic branch or the main office, relocate an insured branch of a foreign bank, engage in a merger transaction, initiate a change of control transaction, or request deposit insurance. The public has the right to comment on, or to protest, these types of proposed transactions during the relevant comment period. In order to fully apprise the public of this right, an applicant shall publish a public notice of its filing in a newspaper of general circulation. For specific publication requirements, consult subparts B (Deposit Insurance), C (Branches and Relocations), D (Merger Transactions), E (Change in Bank Control), and J (International Banking) of this part.

(b) Confirmation of publication. The applicant shall mail or otherwise deliver a copy of the newspaper notice to the appropriate FDIC office as part of its filing, or, if a copy is not available at the time of filing, promptly after publication.

(c) Content of notice.

(1) The public notice referred to in paragraph (a) of this section shall consist of the following:

(i) In the case of an application for deposit insurance for a de novo depository institution, include the names of all organizers or incorporators. In the case of an application to establish a branch, include the location of the proposed branch or, in the case of an application to relocate a branch or main office, include the current and proposed address of the office. In the case of a merger application, include the names of all parties to the transaction. In the case of a notice of acquisition of control, include the name(s) of the acquiring parties. In the case of an application to relocate an insured branch of a foreign bank, include the current and proposed address of the branch.

(ii) Type of filing being made;

(iii) Name of the depository institution(s) that is the subject matter of the filing;

(iv) That the public may submit comments to the appropriate FDIC regional director;

(v) The address of the appropriate FDIC office where comments may be sent (the same location where the filing will be made);

(vi) The closing date of the public comment period as specified in the appropriate subpart of this part; and

(vii) That the nonconfidential portions of the application are on file in the appropriate FDIC office and are available for public inspection during regular business hours; photocopies of the nonconfidential portion of the application file will be made available upon request.

(2) The requirements of paragraphs (c)(1)(iv) through (vii) of this section may be satisfied through use of the following notice:

Any person wishing to comment on this application may file his or her comments in writing with the regional director of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation at the appropriate FDIC office [insert address of office] not later than [insert closing date of the public comment period specified in the appropriate subpart of part 303]. The non-confidential portions of the application are on file at the appropriate FDIC office and are available for public inspection during regular business hours. Photocopies of the nonconfidential portion of the application file will be made available upon request.

(d) Multiple transactions. The FDIC may consider more than one transaction, or a series of transactions, to be a single filing for purposes of the publication requirements of this section. When publishing a single public notice for multiple transactions, the applicant shall explain in the public notice how the transactions are related. The closing date of the comment period shall be the closing date of the longest public comment period that applies to any of the related transactions.

(e) Joint public notices. For a transaction subject to public notice requirements by the FDIC and another federal or state banking authority, the FDIC will accept publication of a single joint notice containing all the information required by both the FDIC and the other federal agency or state banking authority, provided that the notice states that comments must be submitted to the appropriate FDIC office and, if applicable, the other federal or state banking authority.

(f) Where public notice is required, the FDIC may determine on a case-by-case basis that unusual circumstances surrounding a particular filing warrant modification of the publication requirements.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 86 FR 8097, Feb. 3, 2021]

§ 303.8 Public access to filing.

(a) General. For filings subject to a public notice requirement, any person may inspect or request a copy of the non-confidential portions of a filing (the public file) until 180 days following final disposition of a filing. Following the 180-day period, non-confidential portions of an application file will be made available in accordance with ' 303.8(c). The public file generally consists of portions of the filing, supporting data, supplementary information, and comments submitted by interested persons (if any) to the extent that the documents have not been afforded confidential treatment. To view or request photocopies of the public file, an oral or written request should be submitted to the appropriate FDIC office. The public file will be produced for review not more than one business day after receipt by the appropriate FDIC office of the request (either written or oral) to see the file. The FDIC may impose a fee for photocopying in accordance with § 309.5(f) of this chapter at the rates the FDIC publishes annually in the Federal Register.

(b) Confidential treatment.

(1) The applicant may request that specific information be treated as confidential. The following information generally is considered confidential:

(i) Personal information, the release of which would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of privacy;

(ii) Commercial or financial information, the disclosure of which could result in substantial competitive harm to the submitter; and

(iii) Information, the disclosure of which could seriously affect the financial condition of any depository institution.

(2) If an applicant requests confidential treatment for information that the FDIC does not consider to be confidential, the FDIC may include that information in the public file after notifying the applicant. On its own initiative, the FDIC may determine that certain information should be treated as confidential and withhold that information from the public file.

(c) FOIA requests. A written request for information withheld from the public file, or copies of the public file following closure of the file 180 days after final disposition, should be submitted pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552) and part 309 of this chapter to the FDIC, Attn: FOIA/Privacy Group, Legal Division, 550 17th Street, NW., Washington, DC 20429.

§ 303.9 Comments.

(a) Submission of comments. For filings subject to a public notice requirement, any person may submit comments to the appropriate FDIC regional director during the comment period.

(b) Comment period

(1) General. Consult appropriate subparts of this part for the comment period applicable to a particular filing.

(2) Extension. The FDIC may extend or reopen the comment period if:

(i) The applicant fails to file all required information on a timely basis to permit review by the public or makes a request for confidential treatment not granted by the FDIC that delays the public availability of that information;

(ii) Any person requesting an extension of time satisfactorily demonstrates to the FDIC that additional time is necessary to develop factual information that the FDIC determines may materially affect the application; or

(iii) The FDIC determines that other good cause exists.

(3) Solicitation of comments. Whenever appropriate, the appropriate regional director may solicit comments from any person or institution which might have an interest in or be affected by the pending filing.

(4) Applicant response. The FDIC will provide copies of all comments received to the applicant and may give the applicant an opportunity to respond.

§ 303.10 Hearings and other meetings.

(a) Matters covered. This section covers hearings and other proceedings in connection with filings and determinations for or by:

(1) Deposit insurance by a proposed new depository institution or operating non-insured institution;

(2) An insured state nonmember bank to establish a domestic branch or to relocate a main office or domestic branch;

(3) Relocation of an insured branch of a foreign bank;

(4)

(i) Merger transaction which requires the FDIC's prior approval under the Bank Merger Act (12 U.S.C. 1828(c));

(ii) Except as otherwise expressly provided, the provisions of this § 303.10 shall not be applicable to any proposed merger transaction which the FDIC Board of Directors determines must be acted upon immediately to prevent the probable failure of one of the institutions involved, or must be handled with expeditious action due to an existing emergency condition, as permitted by the Bank Merger Act (12 U.S.C. 1828(c)(6));

(5) Nullification of a decision on a filing; and

(6) Any other purpose or matter which the FDIC Board of Directors in its sole discretion deems appropriate.

(b) Hearing requests.

(1) Any person may submit a written request for a hearing on a filing:

(i) To the appropriate regional director before the end of the comment period; or

(ii) To the appropriate regional director, pursuant to a notice to nullify a decision on a filing issued pursuant to § 303.11(g)(2)(i) or (ii).

(2) The request must describe the nature of the issues or facts to be presented and the reasons why written submissions would be insufficient to make an adequate presentation of those issues or facts to the FDIC. A person requesting a hearing shall simultaneously submit a copy of the request to the applicant.

(c) Action on a hearing request. The appropriate regional director, after consultation with the Legal Division, may grant or deny a request for a hearing and may limit the issues that he or she deems relevant or material. The FDIC generally grants a hearing request only if it determines that written submissions would be insufficient or that a hearing otherwise would be in the public interest.

(d) Denial of a hearing request. If the appropriate regional director, after consultation with the Legal Division, denies a hearing request, he or she shall notify the person requesting the hearing of the reason for the denial. A decision to deny a hearing request shall be a final agency determination and is not appealable.

(e) FDIC procedures prior to the hearing

(1) Notice of hearing. The FDIC shall issue a notice of hearing if it grants a request for a hearing or orders a hearing because it is in the public interest. The notice of hearing shall state the subject and date of the filing, the time and place of the hearing, and the issues to be addressed. The FDIC shall send a copy of the notice of hearing to the applicant, to the person requesting the hearing, and to anyone else requesting a copy.

(2) The presiding officer shall be the regional director or designee or such other person as may be named by the Board or the Director. The presiding officer is responsible for conducting the hearing and determining all procedural questions not governed by this section.

(f) Participation in the hearing. Any person who wishes to appear (participant) shall notify the appropriate regional director of his or her intent to participate in the hearing no later than 10 days from the date that the FDIC issues the Notice of Hearing. At least 5 days before the hearing, each participant shall submit to the appropriate regional director, as well as to the applicant and any other person as required by the FDIC, the names of witnesses, a statement describing the proposed testimony of each witness, and one copy of each exhibit the participant intends to present.

(g) Transcripts. The FDIC shall arrange for a hearing transcript. The person requesting the hearing and the applicant each shall bear the cost of one copy of the transcript for his or her use unless such cost is waived by the presiding officer and incurred by the FDIC.

(h) Conduct of the hearing

(1) Presentations. Subject to the rulings of the presiding officer, the applicant and participants may make opening and closing statements and present and examine witnesses, material, and data.

(2) Information submitted. Any person presenting material shall furnish one copy to the FDIC, one copy to the applicant, and one copy to each participant.

(3) Laws not applicable to hearings. The Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 551 et seq.), the Federal Rules of Evidence (28 U.S.C. Appendix), the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (28 U.S.C. Rule 1 et seq.), and the FDIC's Rules of Practice and Procedure (12 CFR part 308) do not govern hearings under this § 303.10.

(i) Closing the hearing record. At the applicant's or any participant's request, or at the FDIC's discretion, the FDIC may keep the hearing record open for up to 10 days following the FDIC's receipt of the transcript. The FDIC shall resume processing the filing after the record closes.

(j) Disposition and notice thereof. The presiding officer shall make a recommendation to the FDIC within 20 days following the date the hearing and record on the proceeding are closed. The FDIC shall notify the applicant and all participants of the final disposition of a filing and shall provide a statement of the reasons for the final disposition.

(k) Computation of time. In computing periods of time under this section, the provisions of § 308.12 of the FDIC's Rules of Practice and Procedure (12 CFR 308.12) shall apply.

(l) Informal proceedings. The FDIC may arrange for an informal proceeding with an applicant and other interested parties in connection with a filing, either upon receipt of a written request for such a meeting made during the comment period, or upon the FDIC's own initiative. No later than 10 days prior to an informal proceeding, the appropriate regional director shall notify the applicant and each person who requested a hearing or oral presentation of the date, time, and place of the proceeding. The proceeding may assume any form, including a meeting with FDIC representatives at which participants will be asked to present their views orally. The regional director may hold separate meetings with each of the participants.

(m) Authority retained by FDIC Board of Directors to modify procedures. The FDIC Board of Directors may delegate authority by resolution on a case-by-case basis to the presiding officer to adopt different procedures in individual matters and on such terms and conditions as the Board of Directors determines in its discretion. The resolution shall be made available for public inspection and copying in the Office of the General Counsel, Executive Secretary Section under the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552(a)(2)).

§ 303.11 Decisions.

(a) General procedures. The FDIC may approve, conditionally approve, deny, or not object to a filing after appropriate review and consideration of the record. The FDIC will promptly notify the applicant and any person who makes a written request of the final disposition of a filing. If the FDIC denies a filing, the FDIC will immediately notify the applicant in writing of the reasons for the denial.

(b) Authority retained by FDIC Board of Directors to modify procedures. In acting on any filing under this part, the FDIC Board of Directors may by resolution adopt procedures which differ from those contained in this part when it deems it necessary or in the public interest to do so. The resolution shall be made available for public inspection and copying in the Office of the General Counsel, Executive Secretary Section under the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552(a)(2)).

(c) Expedited processing.

(1) A filing submitted by an eligible depository institution as defined in § 303.2(r) will receive expedited processing as specified in the appropriate subparts of this part unless the FDIC determines to remove the filing from expedited processing for any of the reasons set forth in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. Except for filings made pursuant to subpart J (International Banking), expedited processing will not be available for any filing that the appropriate regional director does not have delegated authority to approve.

(2) Removal of filing from expedited processing. The FDIC may remove a filing from expedited processing at any time prior to final disposition if:

(i) For filings subject to public notice under § 303.7, an adverse comment is received that warrants additional investigation or review;

(ii) For filings subject to evaluation of CRA performance under § 303.5, a CRA protest is received that warrants additional investigation or review, or the appropriate regional director determines that the filing presents a significant CRA or compliance concern;

(iii) For any filing, the appropriate regional director determines that the filing presents a significant supervisory concern, or raises a significant legal or policy issue; or

(iv) For any filing, the appropriate regional director determines that other good cause exists for removal.

(3) For purposes of this section, a significant CRA concern includes, but is not limited to, a determination by the appropriate regional director that, although a depository institution may have an institution-wide rating of satisfactory or better, a depository institution's CRA rating is less than satisfactory in a state or multi-state metropolitan statistical area, or a depository institution's CRA performance is less than satisfactory in a metropolitan statistical area as defined in 12 CFR 345.12 (MSA) or in the non-MSA portion of a state in which it seeks to expand through approval of an application for a deposit facility as defined in 12 U.S.C. 2902(3).

(4) If the FDIC determines that it is necessary to remove a filing from expedited processing pursuant to paragraph (c)(2) of this section, the FDIC promptly will provide the applicant with a written explanation

(d) Multiple transactions. If the FDIC is considering related transactions, some or all of which have been granted expedited processing, then the longest processing time for any of the related transactions shall govern for purposes of approval.

(e) Abandonment of filing. A filing must contain all information set forth in the applicable subpart of this part. To the extent necessary to evaluate a filing, the FDIC may require an applicant to provide additional information. If information requested by the FDIC is not provided within the time period specified by the agency, the FDIC may deem the filing abandoned and shall provide written notification to the applicant and any interested parties that submitted comments to the FDIC that the file has been closed.

(f) Appeals and requests for reconsideration

(1) General. Appeal procedures for a denial of a change in bank control (subpart E), change in senior executive officer or board of directors (subpart F) or denial of an application pursuant to section 19 of the FDI Act (subpart L) are contained in 12 CFR part 308, subparts D, L, and M, respectively. For all other filings covered by this chapter for which appeal procedures are not provided by regulation or other written guidance, the procedures specified in paragraphs (f)(2) and (3) of this section shall apply. A decision to deny a request for a hearing is a final agency determination and is not appealable.

(2) Filing procedures. Within 15 days of receipt of notice from the FDIC that its filing has been denied, any applicant may file a request for reconsideration with the appropriate regional director.

(3) Content of filing. A request for reconsideration must contain the following information:

(i) A resolution of the board of directors of the applicant authorizing filing of the request if the applicant is a corporation, or a letter signed by the individual(s) filing the request if the applicant is not a corporation;

(ii) Relevant, substantive information that for good cause was not previously set forth in the filing; and

(iii) Specific reasons why the FDIC should reconsider its prior decision.

(4)(5) [Reserved]

(6) Processing. The FDIC will notify the applicant whether reconsideration will be granted or denied within 15 days of receipt of a request for reconsideration. If a request for reconsideration is granted pursuant to § 303.11(f), the FDIC will notify the applicant of the final agency decision on such filing within 60 days of its receipt of the request for reconsideration.

(g) Nullification, withdrawal, revocation, amendment, and suspension of decisions on filings

(1) Grounds for action. Except as otherwise provided by law or regulation, the FDIC may nullify, withdraw, revoke, amend or suspend a decision on a filing if it becomes aware at anytime:

(i) Of any material misrepresentation or omission related to the filing or of any material change in circumstance that occurred prior to the consummation of the transaction or commencement of the activity authorized by the decision on the filing; or

(ii) That the decision on the filing is contrary to law or regulation or was granted due to clerical or administrative error.

(iii) Any person responsible for a material misrepresentation or omission in a filing or supporting materials may be subject to an enforcement action and other penalties, including criminal penalties provided in title 18 of the United States Code.

(2) Notice of intent and temporary order.

(i) Except as provided in § 303.11(g)(2)(ii), before taking action under this § 303.11(g), the FDIC shall issue and serve on an applicant written notice of its intent to take such action. A notice of intent to act on a filing shall include:

(A) The reasons for the proposed action; and

(B) The date by which the applicant may file a written response with the FDIC.

(ii) The FDIC may issue a temporary order on a decision on a filing without providing an applicant a prior notice of intent if the FDIC determines that:

(A) It is necessary to reevaluate the impact of a change in circumstance prior to the consummation of the transaction or commencement of the activity authorized by the decision on the filing; or

(B) The activity authorized by the filing may pose a threat to the interests of the depository institution's depositors or may threaten to impair public confidence in the depository institution.

(iii) A temporary order shall provide the applicant with an opportunity to make a written response in accordance with § 303.11(g)(3) of this section.

(3) Response to notice of intent or temporary order. An applicant may file a written response to a notice of intent or a temporary order within 15 days from the date of service of the notice or temporary order. The written response should include:

(i) An explanation of why the proposed action or temporary order is not warranted; and

(ii)

(A) Any other relevant information, mitigation circumstance, documentation, or other evidence in support of the applicant's position. An applicant may also request a hearing under § 303.10.

(B) Failure by an applicant to file a written response with the FDIC to a notice of intent or a temporary order within the specified time period, shall constitute a waiver of the opportunity to respond and shall constitute consent to a final order under this paragraph (g). The FDIC shall consider any such response, if filed in a timely manner, within 30 days of receiving the response.

(4) Effective date. All orders issued pursuant to this section shall become effective immediately upon issuance unless otherwise stated therein.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 68 FR 50459, Aug. 21, 2003]

§ 303.12 Waivers.

(a) The Board of Directors, of the FDIC (Board) may, for good cause and to the extent permitted by statute, waiver the applicability of any provision of this chapter.

(b) The provisions of this chapter may be suspended, revoked, amended or waived for good cause shown, in whole or in part, at any time by the Board, subject to the provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act and the provisions of this chapter. Any provision of the rules may be waived by the Board on its own motion or on petition if good cause thereof is shown.

[68 FR 50459, Aug. 21, 2003]

§ 303.13 [Reserved]

§ 303.14 Being “engaged in the business of receiving deposits other than trust funds.”

(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this section, a depository institution shall be “engaged in the business of receiving deposits other than trust funds” only if it maintains one or more non-trust deposit accounts in the minimum aggregate amount of $500,000.

(b) An applicant for federal deposit insurance under section 5 of the FDI Act, 12 U.S.C. 1815(a), shall be deemed to be “engaged in the business of receiving deposits other than trust funds” from the date that the FDIC approves deposit insurance for the institution until one year after it opens for business.

(c) Any depository institution that fails to satisfy the minimum deposit standard specified in paragraph (a) of this section as of two consecutive call report dates (i.e., March 31st, June 30th, September 30th, and December 31st) shall be subject to a determination by the FDIC that the institution is not “engaged in the business of receiving deposits other than trust funds” and to termination of its insured status under section 8(p) of the FDI Act, 12 U.S.C. 1818(p). For purposes of this paragraph, the first three call report dates after the institution opens for business are excluded.

(d) Notwithstanding any failure by an insured depository institution to satisfy the minimum deposit standard in paragraph (a) of this section, the institution shall continue to be “engaged in the business of receiving deposits other than trust funds” for purposes of section 3 of the FDI Act until the institution's insured status is terminated by the FDIC pursuant to a proceeding under section 8(a) or section 8(p) of the FDI Act. 12 U.S.C. 1818(a) or 1818(p).

§ 303.15 Certain limited liability companies deemed incorporated under State law.

(a) For purposes of the definition of “State bank” in 12 U.S.C. 1813(a)(2) and this Chapter, a banking institution that is chartered as a limited liability company (LLC) under the law of any State is deemed to be “incorporated” under the law of the State, if

(1) The institution is not subject to automatic termination, dissolution, or suspension upon the happening of some event (including, e.g., the death, disability, bankruptcy, expulsion, or withdrawal of an owner of the institution), other than the passage of time;

(2) The exclusive authority to manage the institution is vested in a board of managers or directors that is elected or appointed by the owners, and that operates in substantially the same manner as, and has substantially the same rights, powers, privileges, duties, responsibilities, as a board of directors of a bank chartered as a corporation in the State;

(3) Neither State law, nor the institution's operating agreement, bylaws, or other organizational documents provide that an owner of the institution is liable for the debts, liabilities, and obligations of the institution in excess of the amount of the owner's investment; and

(4) Neither State law, nor the institution's operating agreement, bylaws, or other organizational documents require the consent of any other owner of the institution in order for an owner to transfer an ownership interest in the institution, including voting rights.

(b) For purposes of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act and this chapter:

(1) Each of the terms “stockholder” and “shareholder” includes an owner of any interest in a depository institution chartered as an LLC, including a member or participant;

(2) The term “director” includes a manager or director of a depository institution chartered as an LLC, or other person who has, with respect to such a depository institution, authority substantially similar to that of a director of a corporation;

(3) The term “officer” includes an officer of a depository institution chartered as an LLC, or other person who has, with respect to such a depository institution, authority substantially similar to that of an officer of a corporation; and

(4) Each of the terms “voting stock,” “voting shares,” and “voting securities” includes ownership interests in a depository institution chartered as an LLC, as well as any certificates or other evidence of such ownership interests.

[68 FR 7308, Feb. 13, 2003, as amended at 86 FR 8097, Feb. 3, 2021]

§§ 303.16-303.19 [Reserved]

Subpart B - Deposit Insurance

§ 303.20 Scope.

This subpart sets forth the procedures for applying for deposit insurance for a proposed depository institution or an operating noninsured depository institution under section 5 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1815). It also sets forth the procedures for requesting continuation of deposit insurance for a state-chartered bank withdrawing from membership in the Federal Reserve System and for interim institutions chartered to facilitate a merger transaction. Each bank that results from the conversion of a Federal savings association into multiple banks pursuant to section 5(i)(5) of the Home Owners' Loan Act, 12 U.S.C. 1464(i)(5), is treated as a proposed depository institution or a de novo institution, as appropriate, for purposes of this subpart.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 73 FR 2145, Jan. 14, 2008]

§ 303.21 Filing procedures.

(a) Applications for deposit insurance shall be filed with the appropriate FDIC office. The relevant application forms and instructions for applying for deposit insurance for an existing or proposed depository institution may be obtained from any FDIC regional director.

(b) An application for deposit insurance for an interim depository institution shall be filed and processed in accordance with the procedures set forth in § 303.24, subject to the provisions of § 303.62(b)(2) regarding deposit insurance for interim institutions. An interim institution is defined as a state- or federally-chartered depository institution that does not operate independently but exists solely as a vehicle to accomplish a merger transaction.

(c) A request for continuation of deposit insurance upon withdrawing from membership in the Federal Reserve System shall be in letter form and shall provide the information prescribed in § 303.25.

§ 303.22 Processing.

(a) Expedited processing for proposed institutions.

(1) An application for deposit insurance for a proposed institution which will be a subsidiary of an eligible depository institution as defined in § 303.2(r) or an eligible holding company will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC and will receive expedited processing unless the applicant is notified in writing to the contrary and provided with the basis for that decision. An eligible holding company is defined as a bank or thrift holding company that has consolidated assets of at least $150 million or more; a BOPEC rating of at least “2” for bank holding companies or an above average or “A” rating for thrift holding companies; and at least 75 percent of its consolidated depository institution assets comprised of eligible depository institutions. The FDIC may remove an application from expedited processing for any of the reasons set forth in § 303.11(c)(2).

(2) Under expedited processing, the FDIC will take action on an application within 60 days of receipt of a substantially complete application or 5 days after the expiration of the comment period described in § 303.23, whichever is later. Final action may be withheld until the FDIC has assurance that permission to organize the proposed institution will be granted by the chartering authority. Notwithstanding paragraph (a)(1) of this section, if the FDIC does not act within the expedited processing period, it does not constitute an automatic or default approval.

(b) Standard processing. For those applications that are not processed pursuant to the expedited procedures, the FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action when the decision is rendered.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 68 FR 50459, Aug. 21, 2003]

§ 303.23 Public notice requirements.

(a) De novo institutions and operating noninsured institutions. The applicant shall publish a notice as prescribed in § 303.7 in a newspaper of general circulation in the community in which the main office of the depository institution is or will be located. Notice shall be published as close as practicable to, but no sooner than five days before, the date the application is mailed or delivered to the appropriate FDIC office. Comments by interested parties must be received by the appropriate regional director within 30 days following the date of publication, unless the comment period has been extended or reopened in accordance with § 303.9(b)(2).

(b) Exceptions to public notice requirements. No publication shall be required in connection with the granting of insurance to a new depository institution established pursuant to the resolution of a depository institution in default, or to an interim depository institution formed solely to facilitate a merger transaction, or for a request for continuation of federal deposit insurance by a state-chartered bank withdrawing from membership in the Federal Reserve System.

§ 303.24 Application for deposit insurance for an interim institution.

(a) Application required. Subject to § 303.62(b)(2), a deposit insurance application is required for a state-chartered interim institution if the related merger transaction is subject to approval by a federal banking agency other than the FDIC. A separate application for deposit insurance for an interim institution is not required in connection with any merger requiring FDIC approval pursuant to subpart D of this part.

(b) Content of separate application. A letter application for deposit insurance for an interim institution, accompanied by a copy of the related merger application, shall be filed with the appropriate FDIC office. The letter application shall briefly describe the transaction and contain a statement that deposit insurance is being requested for an interim institution that does not operate independently but exists solely as a vehicle to accomplish a merger transaction which will be reviewed by a federal banking agency other than the FDIC.

(c) Processing. An application for deposit insurance for an interim depository institution will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC. Final action will be taken within 21 days after receipt of a substantially complete application, unless the applicant is notified in writing that additional review is warranted. If the FDIC does not act within the expedited processing period, it does not constitute an automatic or default approval.

§ 303.25 Continuation of deposit insurance upon withdrawing from membership in the Federal Reserve System.

(a) Content of application. To continue its insured status upon withdrawal from membership in the Federal Reserve System, a state-chartered bank shall submit a letter application to the appropriate FDIC office. A complete application shall consist of the following information:

(1) A copy of the letter, and any attachments thereto, sent to the appropriate Federal Reserve Bank setting forth the bank's intention to terminate its membership;

(2) A copy of the letter from the Federal Reserve Bank acknowledging the bank's notice to terminate membership;

(3) A statement regarding any anticipated changes in the bank's general business plan during the next 12-month period; and

(4)

(i) A statement by the bank's management that there are no outstanding or proposed corrective programs or supervisory agreements with the Federal Reserve System.

(ii) If such programs or agreements exist, a statement by the applicant that its Board of Directors is willing to enter into similar programs or agreements with the FDIC which would become effective upon withdrawal from the Federal Reserve System.

(b) Processing. An application for deposit insurance under this section will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC. The FDIC shall notify the applicant, within 15 days of receipt of a substantially complete application, either that federal deposit insurance will continue upon termination of membership in the Federal Reserve System or that additional review is warranted and the applicant will be notified, in writing, of the FDIC's final decision regarding continuation of deposit insurance. If the FDIC does not act within the expedited processing period, it does not constitute an automatic or default approval.

§§ 303.26-303.39 [Reserved]

Subpart C - Establishment and Relocation of Domestic Branches and Offices

§ 303.40 Scope.

(a) General. This subpart sets forth the application requirements and procedures for insured state nonmember banks to establish a branch, relocate a branch or main office, and retain existing branches after the interstate relocation of the main office subject to the approval by the FDIC pursuant to sections 13(f), 13(k), 18(d) and 44 of the FDI Act.

(b) Merger transaction. Applications for approval of the acquisition and establishment of branches in connection with a merger transaction under section 18(c) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1828(c)), are processed in accordance with subpart D (Merger Transactions) of this part.

(c) Insured branches of foreign banks and foreign branches of domestic banks. Applications regarding insured branches of foreign banks and foreign branches of domestic banks are processed in accordance with subpart J (International Banking) of this part.

(d) Interstate acquisition of individual branch. Applications requesting approval of the interstate acquisition of an individual branch or branches located in a state other than the applicant's home state without the acquisition of the whole bank are treated as interstate bank merger transactions under section 44 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831a(u)), and are processed in accordance with subpart D (Merger Transactions) of this part.

§ 303.41 Definitions.

For purposes of this subpart:

(a) Branch , except as provided in this paragraph, includes any branch bank, branch office, additional office, or any branch place of business located in any State of the United States or in any territory of the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, the Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands at which deposits are received or checks paid or money lent. A branch does not include an automated teller machine, an automated loan machine, a remote service unit, or a facility described in section 303.46. The term branch also includes the following:

(1) A messenger service that is operated by a bank or its affiliate that picks up and delivers items relating to transactions in which deposits are received or checks paid or money lent. A messenger service established and operated by a non-affiliated third party generally does not constitute a branch for purposes of this subpart. Banks contracting with third parties to provide messenger services should consult with the FDIC to determine if the messenger service constitutes a branch.

(2) A mobile branch, other than a messenger service, that does not have a single, permanent site and uses a vehicle that travels to various locations to enable the public to conduct banking business. A mobile branch may serve defined locations on a regular schedule or may serve a defined area at varying times and locations.

(3) A temporary branch that operates for a limited period of time not to exceed one year as a public service, such as during an emergency or disaster situation.

(4) A seasonal branch that operates at various periodically recurring intervals, such as during state and local fairs, college registration periods, and other similar occasions.

(b) Branch relocation means a move within the same immediate neighborhood of the existing branch that does not substantially affect the nature of the business of the branch or the customers of the branch. Moving a branch to a location outside its immediate neighborhood is considered the closing of an existing branch and the establishment of a new branch. Closing of a branch is covered in the FDIC Statement of Policy Concerning Branch Closing Notices and Policies. 1 FDIC Law, Regulations, Related Acts 5391; see § 309.4 (a) and (b) of this chapter for availability.

(c) De novo branch means a branch of a bank which is established by the bank as a branch and does not become a branch of such bank as a result of:

(1) The acquisition by the bank of an insured depository institution or a branch of an insured depository institution; or

(2) The conversion, merger, or consolidation of any such institution or branch.

(d) Home state means the state by which the bank is chartered.

(e) Host state means a state, other than the home state of the bank, in which the bank maintains, or seeks to establish and maintain, a branch.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 73 FR 35338, June 23, 2008; 73 FR 55432, Sept. 25, 2008]

§ 303.42 Filing procedures.

(a) General. An applicant shall submit an application to the appropriate FDIC office on the date the notice required by § 303.44 is published, or within 5 days after the date of the last required publication.

(b) Content of filing. A complete letter application shall include the following information:

(1) A statement of intent to establish a branch, or to relocate the main office or a branch;

(2) The exact location of the proposed site including the street address. With regard to messenger services, specify the geographic area in which the services will be available. With regard to a mobile branch specify the community or communities in which the vehicle will operate and the manner in which it will be used;

(3) Details concerning any involvement in the proposal by an insider of the bank as defined in § 303.2(u), including any financial arrangements relating to fees, the acquisition of property, leasing of property, and construction contracts;

(4) Comments on any changes in services to be offered, the community to be served, or any other effect the proposal may have on the applicant's compliance with the CRA;

(5) A copy of each newspaper publication required by § 303.44 of this subpart, the name and address of the newspaper, and date of the publication;

(6) When an application is submitted to relocate the main office of the applicant from one state to another, a statement of the applicant's intent regarding retention of branches in the state where the main office exists prior to relocation.

(c) Undercapitalized institutions. Applications to establish a branch by applicants subject to section 38 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831o) also should provide the information required by § 303.204. Applications pursuant to sections 38 and 18(d) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831o and 1828(d)) may be filed concurrently or as a single application.

(d) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information to complete processing.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 85 FR 72555, Nov. 13, 2020]

§ 303.43 Processing.

(a) Expedited processing for eligible depository institutions. An application filed under this subpart by an eligible depository institution as defined in § 303.2(r) will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC and will receive expedited processing, unless the applicant is notified in writing to the contrary and provided with the basis for that decision. The FDIC may remove an application from expedited processing for any of the reasons set forth in § 303.11(c)(2). Absent such removal, an application processed under expedited processing will be deemed approved on the latest of the following:

(1) The 21st day after receipt by the FDIC of a substantially complete filing;

(2) The 5th day after expiration of the comment period described in§ 303.44; or

(3) In the case of an application to establish and operate a de novo branch in a state that is not the applicant's home state and in which the applicant does not maintain a branch, the 5th day after the FDIC receives confirmation from the host state that the applicant has both complied with the filing requirements of the host state and submitted a copy of the application with the FDIC to the host state bank supervisor.

(b) Standard processing. For those applications which are not processed pursuant to the expedited procedures, the FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action when the decision is rendered.

§ 303.44 Public notice requirements.

(a) Newspaper publications. For applications to establish or relocate a branch, a notice as described in § 303.7(c) shall be published once in a newspaper of general circulation. For applications to relocate a main office, notice shall be published at least once each week on the same day for two consecutive weeks. The required publication shall be made in the following communities:

(1) To establish a branch. In the community in which the main office is located and in the communities to be served by the branch (including messenger services and mobile branches).

(2) To relocate a main office. In the community in which the main office is currently located and in the community to which it is proposed the main office will relocate.

(3) To relocate a branch. In the community in which the branch is located.

(b) Public comments. Comments by interested parties must be received by the appropriate regional director within 15 days after the date of the last newspaper publication required by paragraph (a) of this section, unless the comment period has been extended or reopened in accordance with § 303.9(b)(2).

(c) Lobby notices. In the case of applications to relocate a main office or a branch, a copy of the required newspaper publication shall be posted in the public lobby of the office to be relocated for at least 15 days beginning on the date of the last published notice required by paragraph (a) of this section.

§ 303.45 Special provisions.

(a) Emergency or disaster events.

(1) In the case of an emergency or disaster at a main office or a branch which requires that an office be immediately relocated to a temporary location, applicants shall notify the appropriate FDIC office within 3 days of such temporary relocation.

(2) Within 10 days of the temporary relocation resulting from an emergency or disaster, the bank shall submit a written application to the appropriate FDIC office, that identifies the nature of the emergency or disaster, specifies the location of the temporary branch, and provides an estimate of the duration the bank plans to operate the temporary branch.

(3) As part of the review process, the FDIC will determine on a case by case basis whether additional information is necessary and may waive public notice requirements.

(b) Redesignation of main office and existing branch. In cases where an applicant desires to redesignate its main office as a branch and redesignate an existing branch as the main office, a single application shall be submitted. The FDIC may waive the public notice requirements in instances where an application presents no significant or novel policy, supervisory, CRA, compliance or legal concerns. A waiver will be granted only to a redesignation within the applicant's home state.

(c) Expiration of approval. Approval of an application expires if within 18 months after the approval date a branch has not commenced business or a relocation has not been completed.

§ 303.46 Financial education programs that include the provision of bank products and services.

No branch application or prior approval is required in order for a state nonmember bank to participate in one or more financial education programs that involve receiving deposits, paying withdrawals, or lending money if:

(a) Such service or services are provided on school premises, or a facility used by the school;

(b) Such service or services are provided at the discretion of the school;

(c) The principal purpose of each program is financial education. For example, the principal purpose of a program would be considered to be financial education if the program is designed to teach students the principles of personal financial management, banking operations, or the benefits of saving for the future, and is not designed for the purpose of profit-making; and

(d) Each program is conducted in a manner that is consistent with safe and sound banking practices and complies with applicable law.

[73 FR 35338, June 23, 2008]

§§ 303.47-303.59 [Reserved]

Subpart D - Merger Transactions

§ 303.60 Scope.

This subpart sets forth the application requirements and procedures for transactions subject to FDIC approval under the Bank Merger Act, section 18(c) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1828(c)). Additional guidance is contained in the FDIC “Statement of Policy on Bank Merger Transactions” (1 FDIC Law, Regulations, Related Acts 5145; see § 309.4(a) and (b) of this chapter for availability).

§ 303.61 Definitions.

For purposes of this subpart:

(a) Merger transaction includes any transaction:

(1) In which an insured depository institution merges or consolidates with any other insured depository institution or, either directly or indirectly, acquires the assets of, or assumes liability to pay any deposits made in, any other insured depository institution; or

(2) In which an insured depository institution merges or consolidates with any noninsured bank or institution or assumes liability to pay any deposits made in, or similar liabilities of, any noninsured bank or institution, or in which an insured depository institution transfers assets to any noninsured bank or institution in consideration of the assumption of any portion of the deposits made in the insured depository institution.

(b) Corporate reorganization means a merger transaction that involves solely an insured depository institution and one or more of its affiliates.

(c) Interim merger transaction means a merger transaction (other than a purchase and assumption transaction) between an operating depository institution and a newly-formed depository institution or corporation that will not operate independently and that exists solely for the purpose of facilitating a corporate reorganization.

(d) Resulting institution refers to the acquiring, assuming or resulting institution in a merger transaction.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 71 FR 20526, Apr. 21, 2006; 73 FR 2145, Jan. 14, 2008]

§ 303.62 Transactions requiring prior approval.

(a) Merger transactions. The following merger transactions require the prior written approval of the FDIC under this subpart:

(1) Any merger transaction, including any corporate reorganization, interim merger transaction, or optional conversion, in which the resulting institution is to be an FDIC-supervised institution; and

(2) Any merger transaction, including any corporate reorganization, or interim merger transaction, that involves an uninsured bank or institution.

(b) Related regulations. Transactions covered by this subpart also may be subject to other regulations or application requirements, including the following:

(1) Interstate merger transactions. Merger transactions between insured banks that are chartered in different states are subject to the regulations of section 44 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831u). In the case of a merger transaction that consists of the acquisition by an out of state bank of a branch without acquisition of the bank, the branch is treated for section 44 purposes as a bank whose home state is the state in which the branch is located.

(2) Deposit insurance. An application for deposit insurance will be required in connection with a merger transaction between a state-chartered interim institution and an insured depository institution if the related merger application is being acted upon by a Federal banking agency other than the FDIC. If the FDIC is the Federal banking agency responsible for acting on the related merger application, a separate application for deposit insurance is not necessary. Procedures for applying for deposit insurance are set forth in subpart B of this part. An application for deposit insurance will not be required in connection with a merger transaction (other than a purchase and assumption transaction) of a federally-chartered interim institution and an insured institution, even if the resulting institution is to operate under the charter of the Federal interim institution.

(3) Branch closings. Branch closings in connection with a merger transaction are subject to the notice requirements of section 42 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831r–1), including requirements for notice to customers. These requirements are addressed in the “Interagency Policy Statement Concerning Branch Closings Notices and Policies” (1 FDIC Law, Regulations, Related Acts (FDIC) 5391; see § 309.4(a) and (b) of this chapter for availability).

(4) Undercapitalized institutions. Applications for a merger transaction by applicants subject to section 38 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831o) should also provide the information required by § 303.204. Applications pursuant to sections 38 and 18(c) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C, 1831o and 1828(c)) may be filed concurrently or as a single application.

(5) Certification of assumption of deposit liability. Whenever all of the deposit liabilities of an insured depository institution are assumed by one or more insured depository institutions by merger, consolidation, other statutory assumption, or by contract, the transferring insured depository institution, or its legal successor, shall provide an accurate written certification to the FDIC that its deposit liabilities have been assumed, in accordance with 12 CFR part 307.

[85 FR 3243, Jan. 21, 2020]

§ 303.63 Filing procedures.

(a) General. Applications required under this subpart shall be filed with the appropriate FDIC office. The appropriate forms and instructions may be obtained upon request from any FDIC regional director.

(b) Merger transactions. Applications for approval of merger transactions shall be accompanied by copies of all agreements or proposed agreements relating to the merger transaction and any other information requested by the FDIC.

(c) Interim merger transactions. Applications for approval of interim merger transactions and any related deposit insurance applications shall be made by filing the forms and other documents required by paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section and such other information as may be required by the FDIC for consideration of the request for deposit insurance.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 73 FR 2145, Jan. 14, 2008]

§ 303.64 Processing.

(a) Expedited processing for eligible depository institutions

(1) General. An application filed under this subpart by an eligible depository institution as defined in § 303.2(r) and which meets the additional criteria in paragraph (a)(4) of this section will be acknowledged by the FDIC in writing and will receive expedited processing, unless the applicant is notified in writing to the contrary and provided with the basis for that decision. The FDIC may remove an application from expedited processing for any of the reasons set forth in § 303.11(c)(2).

(2) Timing. Under expedited processing, the FDIC will take action on an application by the date that is the latest of:

(i) 45 days after the date of the FDIC's receipt of a substantially complete merger application; or

(ii) 10 days after the date of the last notice publication required under § 303.65 of this subpart; or

(iii) 5 days after receipt of the Attorney General's report on the competitive factors involved in the proposed transaction; or

(iv) For an interstate merger transaction subject to the provisions of section 44 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831u), 5 days after the FDIC receives confirmation from the host state (as defined in § 303.41(e)) that the applicant has both complied with the filing requirements of the host state and submitted a copy of the FDIC merger application to the host state's bank supervisor.

(3) No automatic approval. Notwithstanding paragraph (a)(1) or (2) of this section, if the FDIC does not act within the expedited processing period, it does not constitute an automatic or default approval.

(4) Criteria. The FDIC will process an application using expedited procedures if:

(i) Immediately following the merger transaction, the resulting institution will be “well-capitalized” pursuant to subpart H of part 324 of this chapter (12 CFR part 324), as applicable; and

(ii)

(A) All parties to the merger transaction are eligible depository institutions as defined in § 303.2(r); or

(B) The acquiring party is an eligible depository institution as defined in § 303.2(r) and the amount of the total assets to be transferred does not exceed an amount equal to 10 percent of the acquiring institution's total assets as reported in its report of condition for the quarter immediately preceding the filing of the merger application.

(b) Standard processing. For those applications not processed pursuant to the expedited procedures, the FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action taken by the FDIC on the application when the decision is rendered.

(c) Processing for State savings associations. Notwithstanding paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, the FDIC will approve or disapprove an application filed by a State savings association to acquire or be acquired by another insured depository institution that is required to be filed with the FDIC within 60 days after the date of the FDIC's receipt of a substantially complete merger application, subject to the FDIC's discretion to extend such period by an additional 30 days if any material information submitted is substantially inaccurate or incomplete.

(1) The FDIC shall notify an applicant that is a State savings association in writing of the date the application is deemed substantially complete. The FDIC may request additional information at any time.

(2) Notwithstanding this paragraph (c), if the FDIC does not approve or disapprove an application within the 60-day or extended processing period it does not constitute an automatic or default approval.

[85 FR 3244, Jan. 21, 2020]

§ 303.65 Public notice requirements.

(a) General. Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, an applicant for approval of a merger transaction must publish notice of the proposed transaction on at least three occasions at approximately equal intervals in a newspaper of general circulation in the community or communities where the main offices of the merging institutions are located or, if there is no such newspaper in the community, then in the newspaper of general circulation published nearest thereto.

(1) First publication. The first publication of the notice should be as close as practicable to the date on which the application is filed with the FDIC, but no more than 5 days prior to the filing date.

(2) Last publication. The last publication of the notice shall be on the 25th day after the first publication or, if the newspaper does not publish on the 25th day, on the newspaper's publication date that is closest to the 25th day.

(b) Exceptions

(1) Emergency requiring expeditious action. If the FDIC determines that an emergency exists requiring expeditious action, notice shall be published twice. The first notice shall be published as soon as possible after the FDIC notifies the applicant of such determination. The second notice shall be published on the 7th day after the first publication or, if the newspaper does not publish on the 7th day, on the newspaper's publication date that is closest to the 7th day.

(2) Probable failure. If the FDIC determines that it must act immediately to prevent the probable failure of one of the institutions involved in a proposed merger transaction, publication is not required.

(c) Content of notice

(1) General. The notice shall conform to the public notice requirements set forth in § 303.7.

(2) Branches. If it is contemplated that the resulting institution will operate offices of the other institution(s) as branches, the following statement shall be included in the notice required in § 303.7(b):

It is contemplated that all offices of the above-named institutions will continue to be operated (with the exception of [insert identity and location of each office that will not be operated]).

(3) Emergency requiring expeditious action. If the FDIC determines that an emergency exists requiring expeditious action, the notice shall specify as the closing date of the public comment period the date that is the 10th day after the date of the first publication.

(d) Public comments. Comments must be received by the appropriate FDIC office within 30 days after the first publication of the notice, unless the comment period has been extended or reopened in accordance with § 303.9(b)(2). If the FDIC has determined that an emergency exists requiring expeditious action, comments must be received by the appropriate FDIC office within 10 days after the first publication.

§§ 303.66-303.79 [Reserved]

Subpart E - Change in Bank Control

Source:

80 FR 65899, Oct. 28, 2015, unless otherwise noted.

§ 303.80 Scope.

This subpart implements the provisions of the Change in Bank Control Act of 1978, section 7(j) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1817(j)) (CBCA), and sets forth the filing requirements and processing procedures for a notice of change in control with respect to the acquisition of control of a State nonmember bank, a State savings association, or certain parent companies of either a State nonmember bank or a State savings association.

§ 303.81 Definitions.

For purposes of this subpart:

(a) Acting in concert means knowing participation in a joint activity or parallel action towards a common goal of acquiring control of a covered institution whether or not pursuant to an express agreement.

(b) Company means a company as defined in section 2 of the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1841 et seq.) and any person that is not an individual including for example, a limited liability company.

(c) Control means the power, directly or indirectly, to direct the management or policies of a covered institution or to vote 25 percent or more of any class of voting securities of a covered institution.

(d) Convertible securities mean debt or equity interests that may be converted into voting securities.

(e) Covered institution means an insured State nonmember bank, an insured State savings association, and any company that controls, directly or indirectly, an insured State nonmember bank or an insured State savings association other than a holding company that is the subject of an exemption described in either section 303.84(a)(3) or (a)(8).

(f) Immediate family means a person's parents, mother-in-law, father-in-law, children, step-children, siblings, step-siblings, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, grandparents, and grandchildren, whether biological, adoptive, adjudicated, contractual, or de facto; the spouse of any of the foregoing; and the person's spouse.

(g) Person means an individual, corporation, limited liability company (LLC), partnership, trust, association, joint venture, pool, syndicate, sole proprietorship, unincorporated organization, voting trust, or any other form of entity; and includes each party to a voting agreement and any group of persons acting in concert.

(h) Management official means any officer, LLC manager, director, partner, or trustee of an entity, or other person with similar functions and powers with respect to a company.

(i)

(1) Voting securities means shares of common or preferred stock, general or limited partnership shares or interests, membership interests, or similar interests if the shares or interests, by statute, charter, or in any manner, entitle the holder:

(i) To vote for, or to select, directors, trustees, managers of an LLC, partners, or other persons exercising similar functions of the issuing entity; or

(ii) To vote on, or to direct, the conduct of the operations or significant policies of the issuing entity.

(2) Nonvoting shares: Shares of common or preferred stock, limited partnership shares or interests, membership interests, or similar interests are not “voting securities” if:

(i) Any voting rights associated with the shares or interests are limited solely to the type customarily provided by State statute with regard to matters that would significantly and adversely affect the rights or preference of the security or other interest, such as the issuance of additional amounts or classes of senior securities, the modification of the terms of the security or interest, the dissolution of the issuing entity, or the payment of dividends by the issuing entity when preferred dividends are in arrears;

(ii) The shares or interests represent an essentially passive investment or financing device and do not otherwise provide the holder with control over the issuing entity; and

(iii) The shares or interests do not entitle the holder, by statute, charter, or in any manner, to select, or to vote for the selection of, directors, trustees, managers of an LLC, partners, or persons exercising similar functions of the issuing entity.

(3) Class of voting securities: Voting securities issued by a single issuer are deemed to be the same class of voting securities, regardless of differences in dividend rights or liquidation preference, if the securities are voted together as a single class on all matters for which the securities have voting rights other than matters described in paragraph (i)(2)(i) of this section that affect solely the rights or preferences of the securities.

§ 303.82 Transactions that require prior notice.

(a) Prior notice requirement.

(1) Except as provided in §§ 303.83 and 303.84, no person, acting directly or indirectly, or through or in concert with one or more persons, shall acquire control of a covered institution unless the person shall have given the FDIC prior notice of the proposed acquisition as provided in the CBCA and this subpart, and the FDIC has not disapproved the acquisition within 60 days or such longer period as may be permitted under the CBCA; and

(2) Except as provided in §§ 303.83 and 303.84, and unless waived by the FDIC, no person who has been approved to acquire control of a covered institution and who has maintained that control shall acquire, directly or indirectly, or through or in concert with one or more persons, voting securities of such covered institution if that person's ownership, control, or power to vote will increase from less than 25 percent to 25 percent or more of any class of voting securities of the covered institution, unless the person shall have given the FDIC prior notice of the proposed acquisition as provided in the CBCA and this subpart, and the FDIC has not disapproved the acquisition within 60 days or such longer period as may be permitted under the CBCA.

(b) Rebuttable presumptions

(1) Rebuttable presumptions of control. The FDIC presumes that an acquisition of voting securities of a covered institution constitutes the acquisition of the power to direct the management or policies of that institution requiring prior notice to the FDIC, if, immediately after the transaction, the acquiring person will own, control, or hold with power to vote 10 percent or more of any class of voting securities of the institution, and if:

(i) The institution has registered securities under section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78l); or

(ii) No other person will own, control or hold the power to vote a greater percentage of that class of voting securities immediately after the transaction.

(2) Rebuttable presumptions of acting in concert. The following persons who own or control, or propose to own or control voting securities in a covered institution, shall be presumed to be acting in concert for purposes of this subpart:

(i) A company and any controlling shareholder or management official of the company;

(ii) An individual and one or more members of the individual's immediate family;

(iii) Companies under common control or a company and each company it controls;

(iv) Two or more persons that have made, or propose to make, a joint filing related to the proposed acquisition under sections 13 or 14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78m or 78n), and the rules promulgated thereunder by the Securities and Exchange Commission;

(v) A person and any trust for which the person serves as trustee or any trust for which the person is a beneficiary; and

(vi) Persons that are parties to any agreement, contract, understanding, relationship, or other arrangement, whether written or otherwise, regarding the acquisition, voting, or transfer of control of voting securities of a covered institution, other than through revocable proxies as described in § 303.84(a)(5).

(3) Convertible securities, options, and warrants. The acquisition of convertible securities, or options or warrants to acquire voting securities is presumed to constitute the acquisition of voting securities.

(4) Rebuttal of presumptions. The FDIC will afford any person seeking to rebut a presumption in this paragraph (b) an opportunity to present its views in writing.

(c) Acquisition of loans in default. An acquisition of a loan in default that is secured by voting securities of a covered institution is deemed to be an acquisition of the underlying securities for purposes of this subpart. Before acquiring a loan in default that upon foreclosure would result in the acquiring person owning, controlling, or holding with the power to vote a controlling amount of a covered institution's voting securities, the potential acquirer must give the FDIC prior written notice as specified in this subpart.

§ 303.83 Transactions that require notice, but not prior notice.

(a) Notice within 90 days after the acquisition. The following acquisitions of voting securities of a covered institution, which otherwise would require prior notice under this subpart, instead require the acquirer to provide to the appropriate FDIC office within 90 calendar days after the acquisition all relevant information requested by the FDIC:

(1) The acquisition of voting securities as a bona fide gift;

(2) The acquisition of voting securities in satisfaction of a debt previously contracted in good faith, except as provided in § 303.82(c); and

(3) The acquisition of voting securities through inheritance.

(b) Notice within 90 days after receiving notice of the event giving rise to the acquisition of control. The following acquisitions of control of a covered institution, which otherwise would require prior notice under this subpart, instead require the person acquiring control to provide to the appropriate FDIC office, within 90 calendar days after receiving notice of the event giving rise to the acquisition of control, all relevant information requested by the FDIC:

(1) The acquisition of control resulting from a redemption of voting securities by the issuing covered institution; and

(2) The acquisition of control as a result of any event or action (including without limitation the sale of securities) by any third party that is not within the control of the person acquiring control.

(c) The FDIC may disapprove a notice filed after an acquisition of control, and nothing in this section limits the authority of the FDIC to disapprove a notice pursuant to § 303.86(c).

(d) The relevant information that the FDIC may require under this section may include all information and documents routinely required for a prior notice as provided in § 303.85.

(e) If the FDIC disapproves a Notice filed under this § 303.83, the notificant(s) must divest control of the covered institution which may include, without limitation, disposing of some or all of the voting securities so that the notificant(s) is no longer in control of the covered institution, within such period of time and in the manner that the FDIC may determine.

§ 303.84 Transactions that do not require notice.

(a) Exempt transactions. The following transactions do not require notice to the FDIC under this subpart:

(1) The acquisition of additional voting securities of a covered institution by a person who:

(i) Held the power to vote 25 percent or more of any class of voting securities of the institution continuously since the later of March 9, 1979, or the date that the institution commenced business; or

(ii) Is presumed, under § 303.82(b) to have controlled the institution continuously since March 9, 1979, if the aggregate amount of voting securities held does not exceed 25 percent or more of any class of voting securities of the institution or, in other cases, where the FDIC determines that the person has controlled the institution continuously since March 9, 1979;

(2) The acquisition of additional voting securities of a covered institution by a person who has lawfully acquired and maintained control of the institution (for purposes of § 303.82) after obtaining the FDIC's non-objection under the CBCA and the FDIC's regulations or the OTS's non-objection under the repealed Change in Savings and Loan Control Act, 12 U.S.C. 1730(q), and the regulations thereunder then in effect, to acquire control of the institution, unless a notice is required for an increase in ownership described in 12 CFR 303.82(a)(2);

(3) Acquisitions of voting securities subject to approval under section 3 of the Bank Holding Company Act (12 U.S.C. 1842(a)), section 18(c) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1828(c)), or section 10 of the Home Owners' Loan Act (12 U.S.C. 1467a);

(4) Any transaction described in sections 2(a)(5), 3(a)(A), or 3(a)(B) of the Bank Holding Company Act (12 U.S.C. 1841(a)(5), 1842(a)(A), or 1842(a)(B)) by a person described in those provisions;

(5) A customary one-time solicitation of a revocable proxy;

(6) The receipt of voting securities of a covered institution through a pro rata stock dividend or stock split if the proportional interests of the recipients remain substantially the same;

(7) The acquisition of voting securities in a foreign bank that has an insured branch in the United States. (This exemption does not extend to the reports and information required under paragraphs 9, 10, and 12 of the CBCA (12 U.S.C. 1817(j)(9), (10), and (12)); and

(8) The acquisition of voting securities of a depository institution holding company for which the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System reviews a notice pursuant to the CBCA (12 U.S.C. 1817(j)).

§ 303.85 Filing procedures.

(a) Filing notice.

(1) A notice required under this subpart shall be filed with the appropriate FDIC office and shall contain all the information required by paragraph 6 of the CBCA, section 7(j) of the FDI Act, (12 U.S.C. 1817(j)(6)), or prescribed in the designated interagency forms which may be obtained from any FDIC regional director.

(2) The FDIC may waive any of the informational requirements of the notice if the FDIC determines that it is in the public interest.

(3) A notificant shall notify the appropriate FDIC office immediately of any material changes in the information contained in a notice submitted to the FDIC, including changes in financial or other conditions.

(4) When the acquiring person is an individual, or group of individuals acting in concert, the requirement to provide personal financial data may be satisfied by a current statement of assets and liabilities and an income summary, as required in the designated interagency form, together with a statement of any material changes since the date of the statement or summary. The FDIC may require additional information if appropriate.

(b) Other laws. Nothing in this subpart shall affect any obligation which the acquiring person(s) may have to comply with the federal securities laws or other laws.

§ 303.86 Processing.

(a) Acceptance of notice, additional information. The FDIC shall notify the person or persons submitting a notice under this subpart in writing of the date the notice is accepted as substantially complete. The FDIC may request additional information at any time.

(b) Commencement of the 60-day notice period: consummation of acquisition.

(1) The 60-day notice period specified in § 303.82 shall commence on the day after the date of acceptance of a substantially complete notice by the appropriate regional director. The notificant(s) may consummate the proposed acquisition after the expiration of the 60-day notice period, unless the FDIC disapproves the proposed acquisition or extends the notice period as provided in the CBCA.

(2) The notificant(s) may consummate the proposed transaction before the expiration of the 60-day period, including any extensions, if the FDIC notifies the notificant(s) in writing of its intention not to disapprove the acquisition.

(c) Disapproval of acquisition of control. Subpart D of 12 CFR part 308 sets forth the rules of practice and procedure for a notice of disapproval.

§ 303.87 Public notice requirements.

(a) Publication

(1) Newspaper announcement. Any person(s) filing a notice under this subpart shall publish an announcement soliciting public comment on the proposed acquisition. The announcement shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the community in which the home office of the covered institution to be acquired is located.

(2) Timing of publication. The announcement shall be published as close as is practicable to the date the notice is filed with the appropriate FDIC office, but in no event more than 10 calendar days before or after the filing date. If the filing is not filed in accordance with the CBCA and this subpart within the time periods specified herein, the acquiring person(s) shall, within 10 days of being directed by the FDIC to file a Notice, publish an announcement of the acquisition of control.

(3) Contents of newspaper announcement. The newspaper announcement shall conform to the public notice requirements set forth in § 303.7. If the filing is not filed in accordance with the CBCA and this subpart within the time periods specified herein, the announcement shall also include the date of the acquisition and contain a statement indicating that the FDIC is currently reviewing the acquisition of control.

(b) Delay of publication. The FDIC may permit delay in the publication required by this section if the FDIC determines, for good cause, that it is in the public interest to grant such a delay. Requests for delay of publication may be submitted to the appropriate FDIC office.

(c) Shortening or waiving public comment period, waiving publications; acting before close of public comment period. The FDIC may shorten the public comment period to a period of not less than 10 days, or waive the public comment or newspaper publication requirements of paragraph (a) of this section, or act on a notice before the expiration of a public comment period, if it determines in writing either that an emergency exists or that disclosure of the notice, solicitation of public comment, or delay until expiration of the public comment period would seriously threaten the safety and soundness of the State nonmember bank or State savings association to be acquired.

(d) Consideration of public comments. In acting upon a notice filed under this subpart, the FDIC shall consider all public comments received in writing within 20 days following the required newspaper publication or, if the FDIC has shortened the public comment period pursuant to paragraph (c) of this section, within such shorter period.

§ 303.88 Reporting of stock loans and changes in chief executive officers and directors.

(a) Requirements of reporting stock loans.

(1) Any foreign bank or affiliate of a foreign bank that has credit outstanding to any person or group of persons, in the aggregate, which is secured, directly or indirectly, by 25 percent or more of any class of voting securities of a covered institution, shall file a consolidated report with the appropriate FDIC office.

(2) Any voting securities of the covered institution held by the foreign bank or any affiliate of the foreign bank as principal must be included in the calculation of the number of voting securities in which the foreign bank or its affiliate has a security interest for purposes of this paragraph (a).

(b) Definitions. For purposes of paragraph (a) of this section:

(1) Foreign bank shall have the same meaning as in section 1(b) of the International Banking Act of 1978 (12 U.S.C. 3101).

(2) Affiliate shall have the same meaning as in section 1(b) of the International Banking Act of 1978 (12 U.S.C. 3101).

(3) Credit outstanding includes any loan or extension of credit; the issuance of a guarantee, acceptance, or letter of credit, including an endorsement or standby letter of credit; and any other type of transaction that extends credit or financing to the person or group of persons.

(4) Group of persons includes any number of persons that the foreign bank or any affiliate of a foreign bank has reason to believe:

(i) Are acting together, in concert, or with one another to acquire or control voting securities of the same covered institution, including an acquisition of voting securities of the same covered institution at approximately the same time under substantially the same terms; or

(ii) Have made, or propose to make, a joint filing under section 13 or 14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78m or 78n), and the rules promulgated thereunder by the Securities and Exchange Commission regarding ownership of the voting securities of the same covered institution.

(c) Exceptions. Compliance with paragraph (a) of this section is not required if:

(1) The person or group of persons referred to in paragraph (a) has disclosed the amount borrowed and the security interest therein to the appropriate FDIC office in connection with a notice filed under the CBCA, an application filed under either 12 U.S.C. 1841, et seq. or 12 U.S.C. 1467a, or any other application filed with the FDIC as a substitute for a notice under § 303.82 of this subpart, including an application filed under section 18(c) of the FDI Act (Bank Merger Act, 12 U.S.C. 1828(c)) or section 5 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1815); or

(2) The transaction involves a person or group of persons that has been the owner or owners of record of the stock for a period of one year or more; or, if the transaction involves stock issued by a newly chartered bank, before the bank is opened for business.

(d) Report requirements for purposes of paragraph (a) of this section.

(1) The consolidated report must indicate the number and percentage of voting securities securing each applicable extension of credit, the identity of the borrower, the number of voting securities held as principal by the foreign bank and any affiliate thereof, and any additional information that the FDIC may require in connection with a particular report.

(2) A foreign bank, or any affiliate of a foreign bank, shall file the consolidated report in writing within 30 days of the date on which the foreign bank or affiliate first believes that the security for any outstanding credit consists of 25 percent or more of any class of voting securities of a covered institution.

(e) Foreign bank or affiliate not supervised by FDIC. If the foreign bank, or any affiliate thereof, is not supervised by the FDIC, it shall file a copy of the report filed under paragraph (a) of this section with its appropriate Federal banking agency.

(f) Reporting requirement. After the consummation of a change in control, a covered institution must notify the FDIC in writing of any changes or replacements of its chief executive officer or of any director occurring during the 12–month period beginning on the date of consummation. This notice must be filed within 10 days of such change or replacement and must include a statement of the past and current business and professional affiliations of the new chief executive officers or directors.

§§ 303.89-303.99 [Reserved]

Subpart F - Change of Director or Senior Executive Officer

§ 303.100 Scope.

This subpart sets forth the circumstances under which an FDIC-supervised institution must notify the FDIC of a change in any member of its board of directors or any senior executive officer and the procedures for filing such notice. This subpart implements section 32 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831i).

[85 FR 3244, Jan. 21, 2020]

§ 303.101 Definitions.

For purposes of this subpart:

(a) Director means a person who serves on the board of directors or board of trustees of an FDIC-supervised institution, except that this term does not include an advisory director who:

(1) Is not elected by the shareholders;

(2) Is not authorized to vote on any matters before the board of directors or board of trustees or any committee thereof;

(3) Solely provides general policy advice to the board of directors or board of trustees and any committee thereof; and

(4) Has not been identified by the FDIC as a person who performs the functions of a director for purposes of this subpart.

(b) Senior executive officer means a person who holds the title of president, chief executive officer, chief operating officer, chief managing official (in an insured state branch of a foreign bank), chief financial officer, chief lending officer, chief investment officer, or, without regard to title, salary, or compensation, performs the function of one or more of these positions. Senior executive officer also includes any other person identified by the FDIC, whether or not hired as an employee, with significant influence over, or who participates in, major policymaking decisions of the FDIC-supervised institution.

(c) Troubled condition means any FDIC-supervised institution that:

(1) Has a composite rating, as determined in its most recent report of examination, of 4 or 5 under the Uniform Financial Institutions Rating System (UFIRS), or in the case of an insured state branch of a foreign bank, an equivalent rating; or

(2) Is subject to a proceeding initiated by the FDIC for termination or suspension of deposit insurance; or

(3) Is subject to a cease-and-desist order or written agreement issued by either the FDIC or the appropriate state banking authority that requires action to improve the financial condition of the FDIC-supervised institution or is subject to a proceeding initiated by the FDIC or state authority which contemplates the issuance of an order that requires action to improve the financial condition of the FDIC-supervised institution, unless otherwise informed in writing by the FDIC; or

(4) Is informed in writing by the FDIC that it is in troubled condition for purposes of the requirements of this subpart on the basis of the FDIC-supervised institution's most recent report of condition or report of examination, or other information available to the FDIC.

(d) FDIC-supervised institution means any entity for which the FDIC is the appropriate Federal banking agency pursuant to section 3(q) of the FDI Act, 12 U.S.C. 1813(q).

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 85 FR 3244, Jan. 21, 2020]

§ 303.102 Filing procedures and waiver of prior notice.

(a) FDIC-supervised institutions. An FDIC-supervised institution shall give the FDIC written notice, as specified in paragraph (c)(1) of this section, at least 30 days prior to adding or replacing any member of its board of directors, employing any person as a senior executive officer of the institution, or changing the responsibilities of any senior executive officer so that the person would assume a different senior executive officer position, if the FDIC-supervised institution:

(1) Is not in compliance with all minimum capital requirements applicable to the FDIC-supervised institution as determined on the basis of the institution's most recent report of condition or report of examination;

(2) Is in troubled condition; or

(3) The FDIC determines, in connection with its review of a capital restoration plan required under section 38(e)(2) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831o(e)(2)) or otherwise, that such notice is appropriate.

(b) Insured branches of foreign banks. In the case of the addition of a member of the board of directors or a change in senior executive officer in a foreign bank having an insured state branch, the notice requirement shall not apply to such additions and changes in the foreign bank parent, but only to changes in senior executive officers in the state branch.

(c) Waiver of prior notice

(1) Waiver requests. The FDIC may permit an individual, upon petition by the FDIC-supervised institution to the appropriate FDIC office, to serve as a senior executive officer or director before filing the notice required under this subpart if the FDIC finds that:

(i) Delay would threaten the safety and soundness of the FDIC-supervised institution;

(ii) Delay would not be in the public interest; or

(iii) Other extraordinary circumstances exist that justify waiver of prior notice.

(2) Automatic waiver. The prior 30-day notice is automatically waived in the case of the election of a new director not proposed by management at a meeting of the shareholders of an FDIC-supervised institution, and the individual immediately may begin serving, provided that a complete notice is filed with the appropriate FDIC office within two business days after the individual's election.

(3) Effect on disapproval authority. A waiver shall not affect the authority of the FDIC to disapprove a notice within 30 days after a waiver is granted under paragraph (c)(1) of this section or the election of an individual who has filed a notice and is serving pursuant to an automatic waiver under paragraph (c)(2) of this section.

(d)

(1) Content of filing. The notice required by paragraph (a) of this section shall be filed with the appropriate FDIC office and shall contain information pertaining to the competence, experience, character, or integrity of the individual with respect to whom the notice is submitted, as prescribed in the designated interagency form which is available from any FDIC regional director. The FDIC may require additional information.

(2) Modification. The FDIC may modify or accept other information in place of the requirements of paragraph (d)(1) of this section for a notice filed under this subpart.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 85 FR 3245, Jan. 21, 2020]

§ 303.103 Processing.

(a) Processing. The 30-day notice period specified in § 303.102(a) shall begin on the date substantially all information required to be submitted by the notificant pursuant to § 303.102(c)(1) is received by the appropriate FDIC office. The FDIC shall notify the FDIC-supervised institution submitting the notice of the date on which the notice is accepted for processing and of the date on which the 30-day notice period will expire. If processing cannot be completed with 30 days, the notificant will be advised in writing, prior to expiration of the 30-day period, of the reason for the delay in processing and of the additional time period, not to exceed 60 days, in which processing will be completed.

(b) Commencement of service

(1) At expiration of period. A proposed director or senior executive officer may begin service after the end of the 30-day period or any other additional period as provided under paragraph (a) of this section, unless the FDIC disapproves the notice before the end of the period.

(2) Prior to expiration of the period. A proposed director or senior executive officer may begin service before the end of the 30-day period or any additional time period as provided under paragraph (a) of this section, if the FDIC notifies the FDIC-supervised institution and the individual in writing of the FDIC's intention not to disapprove the notice.

(c) Notice of disapproval. The FDIC may disapprove a notice filed under § 303.102 if the FDIC finds that the competence, experience, character, or integrity of the individual with respect to whom the notice is submitted indicates that it would not be in the best interests of depositors of the FDIC-supervised institution or in the best interests of the public to permit the individual to be employed by, or associated with the FDIC-supervised institution. Subpart L of 12 CFR part 308 sets forth the rules of practice and procedure for a notice of disapproval.

[85 FR 3245, Jan. 21, 2020]

§§ 303.104-303.119 [Reserved]

Subpart G - Activities of Insured State Banks

§ 303.120 Scope.

This subpart sets forth procedures for complying with notice and application requirements contained in subpart A of part 362 of this chapter, governing insured state banks and their subsidiaries engaging in activities which are not permissible for national banks and their subsidiaries. This subpart sets forth procedures for complying with notice and application requirements contained in subpart B of part 362 of this chapter, governing certain activities of insured state nonmember banks, their subsidiaries, and certain affiliates. This subpart also sets forth procedures for complying with the notice requirements contained in subpart E of part 362 of this chapter, governing subsidiaries of insured state nonmember banks engaging in financial activities.

§ 303.121 Filing procedures.

(a) Where to file. A notice or application required by subpart A, subpart B, or subpart E of part 362 of this chapter shall be submitted in writing to the appropriate FDIC office.

(b) Contents of filing. A complete letter notice or letter application shall include the following information:

(1) Filings generally.

(i) A brief description of the activity and the manner in which it will be conducted;

(ii) The amount of the bank's existing or proposed direct or indirect investment in the activity as well as calculations sufficient to indicate compliance with any specific capital ratio or investment percentage limitation detailed in subpart A, B, or E of part 362 of this chapter;

(iii) A copy of the bank's business plan regarding the conduct of the activity;

(iv) A citation to the state statutory or regulatory authority for the conduct of the activity;

(v) A copy of the order or other document from the appropriate regulatory authority granting approval for the bank to conduct the activity if such approval is necessary and has already been granted;

(vi) A brief description of the bank's policy and practice with regard to any anticipated involvement in the activity by a director, executive office or principal shareholder of the bank or any related interest of such a person; and

(vii) A description of the bank's expertise in the activity.

(2) [Reserved]

(3) Copy of application or notice filed with another agency. If an insured state bank has filed an application or notice with another federal or state regulatory authority which contains all of the information required by paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the insured state bank may submit a copy to the FDIC in lieu of a separate filing.

(4) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information to complete processing.

§ 303.122 Processing.

(a) Expedited processing. A notice filed by an insured state bank seeking to commence or continue an activity under § 362.3(a)(2)(iii)(A)(2), § 362.4(b)(3)(i), or § 362.4(b)(5) of this chapter will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC and will receive expedited processing, unless the applicant is notified in writing to the contrary and provided a basis for that decision. The FDIC may remove the notice from expedited processing for any of the reasons set forth in § 303.11(c)(2). Absent such removal, a notice processed under expedited processing is deemed approved 30 days after receipt of a complete notice by the FDIC (subject to extension for an additional 15 days upon written notice to the bank) or on such earlier date authorized by the FDIC in writing.

(b) Standard processing for applications and notices that have been removed from expedited processing. For an application filed by an insured state bank seeking to commence or continue an activity under § 362.3(a)(2)(iii)(A)(2), § 362.3(b)(2)(i), § 362.3(b)(2)(ii)(A), § 362.3(b)(2)(ii)(C), § 362.4(b)(1), § 362.4(b)(4), § 362.5(b)(2), or § 362.8(b) or seeking a waiver or modification under § 362.18(e) or § 362.18(g)(3) of this chapter or for notices which are not processed pursuant to the expedited processing procedures, the FDIC will provide the insured State bank with written notification of the final action as soon as the decision is rendered. The FDIC will normally review and act in such cases within 60 days after receipt of a completed application or notice (subject to extension for an additional 30 days upon written notice to the bank), but failure of the FDIC to act prior to the expiration of these periods does not constitute approval.

§§ 303.123-303.139 [Reserved]

Subpart H - Activities of Insured Savings Associations

§ 303.140 Scope.

This subpart sets forth procedures for complying with the notice and application requirements contained in subpart C of part 362 of this chapter, governing insured state savings associations and their service corporations engaging in activities which are not permissible for federal savings associations and their service corporations. This subpart also sets forth procedures for complying with the notice requirements contained in subpart D of part 362 of this chapter, governing insured savings associations which establish or engage in new activities through a subsidiary.

§ 303.141 Filing procedures.

(a) Where to file. All applications and notices required by subpart C or subpart D of part 362 of this chapter are to be in writing and filed with the appropriate FDIC office.

(b) Contents of filing

(1) Filings generally. A complete letter notice or letter application shall include the following information:

(i) A brief description of the activity and the manner in which it will be conducted;

(ii) The amount of the association's existing or proposed direct or indirect investment in the activity as well as calculations sufficient to indicate compliance with any specific capital ratio or investment percentage limitation detailed in subpart C or D of part 362 of this chapter;

(iii) A copy of the association's business plan regarding the conduct of the activity;

(iv) A citation to the state statutory or regulatory authority for the conduct of the activity;

(v) A copy of the order or other document from the appropriate regulatory authority granting approval for the association to conduct the activity if such approval is necessary and has already been granted;

(vi) A brief description of the association's policy and practice with regard to any anticipated involvement in the activity by a director, executive officer or principal shareholder of the association or any related interest of such a person; and

(vii) A description of the association's expertise in the activity.

(2) [Reserved]

(3) Copy of application or notice filed with another agency. If an insured savings association has filed an application or notice with another federal or state regulatory authority which contains all of the information required by paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the insured state bank may submit a copy to the FDIC in lieu of a separate filing.

(4) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information to complete processing.

§ 303.142 Processing.

(a) Expedited processing. A notice filed by an insured state savings association seeking to commence or continue an activity under § 362.11(b)(2)(ii) of this chapter will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC and will receive expedited processing, unless the applicant is notified in writing to the contrary and provided a basis for that decision. The FDIC may remove the notice from expedited processing for any of the reasons set forth in § 303.11(c)(2). Absent such removal, a notice processed under expedited processing is deemed approved 30 days after receipt of a complete notice by the FDIC (subject to extension for an additional 15 days upon written notice to the bank) or on such earlier date authorized by the FDIC in writing.

(b) Standard processing for applications and notices that have been removed from expedited processing. For an application filed by an insured state savings association seeking to commence or continue an activity under § 362.11(a)(2)(ii), § 362.11(b)(2)(i), § 362.12(b)(1) of this chapter or for notices which are not processed pursuant to the expedited processing procedures, the FDIC will provide the insured state savings association with written notification of the final action as soon as the decision is rendered. The FDIC will normally review and act in such cases within 60 days after receipt of a completed application or notice (subject to extension for an additional 30 days upon written notice to the bank), but failure of the FDIC to act prior to the expiration of these periods does not constitute approval.

(c) Notices of activities in excess of an amount permissible for a federal savings association; subsidiary notices. Receipt of a notice filed by an insured state savings association as required by § 362.11(b)(3) or § 362.15 of this chapter will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC. The notice will be reviewed at the appropriate FDIC office, which will take such action as it deems necessary and appropriate.

§§ 303.143-303.159 [Reserved]

Subpart I - Mutual-To-Stock Conversions

§ 303.160 Scope.

This subpart sets forth the notice requirements and procedures for the conversion of an insured mutual state-chartered savings bank to the stock form of ownership. The substantive requirements governing such conversions are contained in § 333.4 of this chapter.

§ 303.161 Filing procedures.

(a) Prior notice required. In addition to complying with the substantive requirements in § 333.4 of this chapter, an insured state-chartered mutually owned savings bank that proposes to convert from mutual to stock form shall file with the FDIC a notice of intent to convert to stock form.

(b) General.

(1) A notice required under this subpart shall be filed in letter form with the appropriate FDIC office at the same time as required conversion application materials are filed with the institution's state regulator.

(2) An insured mutual savings bank chartered by a state that does not require the filing of a conversion application shall file a notice in letter form with the appropriate FDIC office as soon as practicable after adoption of its plan of conversion.

(c) Content of notice. The notice shall provide a description of the proposed conversion and include all materials that have been filed with any state or federal banking regulator and any state or federal securities regulator. At a minimum, the notice shall include, as applicable, copies of:

(1) The plan of conversion, with specific information concerning the record date used for determining eligible depositors and the subscription offering priority established in connection with any proposed stock offering;

(2) Certified board resolutions relating to the conversion;

(3) A business plan, including a detailed discussion of how the capital acquired in the conversion will be used, expected earnings for at least a three-year period following the conversion, and a justification for any proposed stock repurchases;

(4) The charter and bylaws of the converted institution;

(5) The bylaws and operating plans of any other entities formed in connection with the conversion transaction, such as a holding company or charitable foundation;

(6) A full appraisal report, prepared by an independent appraiser, of the value of the converting institution and the pricing of the stock to be sold in the conversion transaction;

(7) Detailed descriptions of any proposed management or employee stock benefit plans or employment agreements and a discussion of the rationale for the level of benefits proposed, individually and by participant group;

(8) Indemnification agreements;

(9) A preliminary proxy statement and sample proxy;

(10) Offering circular(s) and order form;

(11) All contracts or agreements relating to solicitation, underwriting, market-making, or listing of conversion stock and any agreements among members of a group regarding the purchase of unsubscribed shares;

(12) A tax opinion concerning the federal income tax consequences of the proposed conversion;

(13) Consents from experts to use their opinions as part of the notice; and

(14) An estimate of conversion-related expenses.

(d) Additional information. The FDIC, in its discretion, may request any additional information it deems necessary to evaluate the proposed conversion. The institution proposing to convert from mutual to stock form shall promptly provide such information to the FDIC.

(e) Acceptance of notice. The 60-day notice period specified in§ 303.163 shall commence on the date of receipt of a substantially complete notice. The FDIC shall notify the institution proposing to convert in writing of the date the notice is accepted.

(f) Related applications. Related applications that require FDIC action may include:

(1) Applications for deposit insurance, as required by subpart B of this part; and

(2) Applications for consent to merge, as required by subpart D of this part.

§ 303.162 Waiver from compliance.

(a) General. An institution proposing to convert from mutual to stock form may file with the appropriate FDIC office a letter requesting waiver of compliance with this subpart or § 333.4 of this chapter:

(1) When compliance with any provision of this section or § 333.4 of this chapter would be inconsistent or in conflict with applicable state law, or

(2) For any other good cause shown.

(b) Content of filing. In making a request for waiver under paragraph (a) of this section, the institution shall demonstrate that the requested waiver, if granted, would not result in any effects that would be detrimental to the safety and soundness of the institution, entail a breach of fiduciary duty on part of the institution's management or otherwise be detrimental or inequitable to the institution, its depositors, any other insured depository institution(s), the Deposit Insurance Fund, or to the public interest.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 71 FR 20526, Apr. 21, 2006]

§ 303.163 Processing.

(a) General considerations. The FDIC shall review the notice and other materials submitted by the institution proposing to convert from mutual to stock form, specifically considering the following factors:

(1) The proposed use of the proceeds from the sale of stock, as set forth in the business plan;

(2) The adequacy of the disclosure materials;

(3) The participation of depositors in approving the transaction;

(4) The form of the proxy statement required for the vote of the depositors/members on the conversion;

(5) Any proposed increased compensation and other remuneration (including stock grants, stock option rights and other similar benefits) to be granted to officers and directors/trustees of the bank in connection with the conversion;

(6) The adequacy and independence of the appraisal of the value of the mutual savings bank for purposes of determining the price of the shares of stock to be sold;

(7) The process by which the bank's trustees approved the appraisal, the pricing of the stock, and the proposed compensation arrangements for insiders;

(8) The nature and apportionment of stock subscription rights; and

(9) The bank's plans to fulfill its commitment to serving the convenience and needs of its community.

(b) Additional considerations.

(1) In reviewing the notice and other materials submitted under this subpart, the FDIC will take into account the extent to which the proposed conversion transaction conforms with the various provisions of the mutual-to-stock conversion regulations of the Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS) (12 CFR part 563b), as currently in effect at the time the notice is submitted. Any non-conformity with those provisions will be closely reviewed.

(2) Conformity with the OTS requirements will not be sufficient for FDIC regulatory purposes if the FDIC determines that the proposed conversion transaction would pose a risk to the bank's safety or soundness, violate any law or regulation, or present a breach of fiduciary duty.

(c) Notice period.

(1) The period in which the FDIC may object to the proposed conversion transaction shall be the later of:

(i) 60 days after receipt of a substantially complete notice of proposed conversion; or

(ii) 20 days after the last applicable state or other federal regulator has approved the proposed conversion.

(2) The FDIC may, in its discretion, extend the initial 60-day period for up to an additional 60 days by providing written notice to the institution.

(d) Letter of non-objection. If the FDIC determines, in its discretion, that the proposed conversion transaction would not pose a risk to the institution's safety or soundness, violate any law or regulation, or present a breach of fiduciary duty, then the FDIC shall issue to the institution proposing to convert a letter of non-objection to the proposed conversion.

(e) Letter of objection. If the FDIC determines, in its discretion, that the proposed conversion transaction poses a risk to the institution's safety or soundness, violates any law or regulation, or presents a breach of fiduciary duty, then the FDIC shall issue a letter to the institution stating its objection(s) to the proposed conversion and advising the institution not to consummate the proposed conversion until such letter is rescinded. A copy of the letter of objection shall be furnished to the institution's primary state regulator and any other state or federal banking regulator and state or federal securities regulator involved in the conversion.

(f) Consummation of the conversion.

(1) An institution may consummate the proposed conversion upon either:

(i) The receipt of a letter of non-objection; or

(ii) The expiration of the notice period.

(2) If a letter of objection is issued, then the institution shall not consummate the proposed conversion until the FDIC rescinds such letter.

§§ 303.164-303.179 [Reserved]

Subpart J - International Banking

§ 303.180 Scope.

This subpart sets forth procedures for complying with application requirements relating to the foreign activities of insured state nonmember banks, U.S. activities of insured branches of foreign banks, and certain foreign mergers of insured depository institutions.

§ 303.181 Definitions.

For the purposes of this subpart, the following additional definitions apply:

(a) Board of Governors means the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.

(b) Comptroller means the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.

(c) Eligible insured branch. An insured branch will be treated as an eligible depository institution within the meaning of § 303.2(r) if the insured branch:

(1) Received an FDIC-assigned composite ROCA supervisory rating (which rates risk management, operational controls, compliance, and asset quality) of 1 or 2 as a result of its most recent federal or state examination, and the FDIC, Comptroller, or Board of Governors have not expressed concern about the condition or operations of the foreign banking organization or the support it offers the branch;

(2) Received a satisfactory or better Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) rating from its primary federal regulator at its most recent examination, if the depository institution is subject to examination under part 345 of this chapter;

(3) Received a compliance rating of 1 or 2 from its primary federal regulator at its most recent examination;

(4) Is well-capitalized as defined in subpart H of part 324 of this chapter; and

(5) Is not subject to a cease and desist order, consent order, prompt corrective action directive, written agreement, memorandum of understanding, or other administrative agreement with any U.S. bank regulatory authority.

(d) Federal branch means a federal branch of a foreign bank as defined by § 347.202 of this chapter.

(e) Foreign bank means a foreign bank as defined by § 347.202 of this chapter.

(f) Foreign branch means a foreign branch of an insured state nonmember bank as defined by § 347.102 of this chapter.

(g) Foreign organization means a foreign organization as defined by § 347.102 of this chapter.

(h) Insured branch means an insured branch of a foreign bank as defined by § 347.202 of this chapter.

(i) Noninsured branch means a noninsured branch of a foreign bank as defined by § 347.202 of this chapter.

(j) State branch means a state branch of a foreign bank as defined by § 347.202 of this chapter.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 78 FR 55470, Sept. 10, 2013; 83 FR 17739, Apr. 24, 2018]

§ 303.182 Establishing, moving or closing a foreign branch of an insured state nonmember bank.

(a) Notice procedures for general consent. Notice in the form of a letter from an eligible depository institution establishing or relocating a foreign branch pursuant to § 347.117(a) of this chapter must be provided to the appropriate FDIC office no later than 30 days after taking such action. The notice must include the location of the foreign branch, including a street address. The FDIC will provide written acknowledgment of receipt of the notice.

(b) Filing procedures for other branch establishments

(1) Where to file. An applicant seeking to establish a foreign branch other than under § 347.117(a) of this chapter shall submit an application to the appropriate FDIC office.

(2) Content of filing. A complete letter application must include the following information:

(i) The exact location of the proposed foreign branch, including the street address.

(ii) Details concerning any involvement in the proposal by an insider of the applicant, as defined in § 303.2(u) of this part, including any financial arrangements relating to fees, the acquisition of property, leasing of property, and construction contracts;

(iii) A brief description of the applicant's business plan with respect to the foreign branch; and

(iv) A brief description of the proposed activities of the branch and, to the extent any of the proposed activities are not authorized by § 347.115 of this chapter, the applicant's reasons why they should be approved.

(3) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information to complete processing.

(c) Processing

(1) Expedited processing for eligible depository institutions. An application filed under § 347.118(a) of this chapter by an eligible depository institution as defined in § 303.2(r) of this part seeking to establish a foreign branch by expedited processing will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC and will receive expedited processing, unless the applicant is notified in writing to the contrary and provided with the basis for that decision. The FDIC may remove the application from expedited processing for any of the reasons set forth in § 303.11(c)(2) of this part. Absent such removal, an application processed under expedited processing is deemed approved 45 days after receipt of a substantially complete application by the FDIC, or on such earlier date authorized by the FDIC in writing.

(2) Standard processing. For those applications that are not processed pursuant to the expedited procedures, the FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action when the decision is rendered.

(d) Closing. Notices of branch closing under § 347.121 of this chapter, in the form of a letter including the name, location, and date of closing of the closed branch, shall be filed with the appropriate FDIC office no later than 30 days after the branch is closed.

[70 FR 17558, Apr. 6, 2005, as amended at 85 FR 72555, Nov. 13, 2020]

§ 303.183 Investment by insured state nonmember banks in foreign organization.

(a) Notice procedures for general consent. Notice in the form of a letter from an eligible depository institution making direct or indirect investments in a foreign organization pursuant to § 347.117(b) of this chapter shall be provided to the appropriate FDIC office no later than 30 days after taking such action. The FDIC will provide written acknowledgment of receipt of the notice.

(b) Filing procedures for other investments—

(1) Where to file. An applicant seeking to make a foreign investment other than under § 347.117(b) of this chapter shall submit an application to the appropriate FDIC office.

(2) Content of filing. A complete application shall include the following information:

(i) Basic information about the terms of the proposed transaction, the amount of the investment in the foreign organization and the proportion of its ownership to be acquired;

(ii) Basic information about the foreign organization, its financial position and income, including any available balance sheet and income statement for the prior year, or financial projections for a new foreign organization;

(iii) A listing of all shareholders known to hold ten percent or more of any class of the foreign organization's stock or other evidence of ownership, and the amount held by each;

(iv) A brief description of the applicant's business plan with respect to the foreign organization;

(v) A brief description of any business or activities which the foreign organization will conduct directly or indirectly in the United States, and to the extent such activities are not authorized by subpart A of part 347, the applicant's reasons why they should be approved;

(vi) A brief description of the foreign organization's activities, and to the extent such activities are not authorized by subpart A of part 347, the applicant's reasons why they should be approved; and

(vii) If the applicant seeks approval to engage in underwriting or dealing activities, a description of the applicant's plans and procedures to address all relevant risks.

(3) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information to complete processing.

(c) Processing—

(1) Expedited processing for eligible depository institutions. An application filed under § 347.118(b) of this chapter by an eligible depository institution as defined in § 303.2(r) of this part seeking to make direct or indirect investments in a foreign organization will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC and will receive expedited processing, unless the applicant is notified in writing to the contrary and provided with the basis for that decision. The FDIC may remove the application from expedited processing for any of the reasons set forth in § 303.11(c)(2) of this part. Absent such removal, an application processed under expedited processing is deemed approved 45 days after receipt of a substantially complete application by the FDIC, or on such earlier date authorized by the FDIC in writing.

(2) Standard processing. For those applications which are not processed pursuant to the expedited procedures, the FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action when the decision is rendered.

(d) Divestiture. If an insured state nonmember bank holding 50 percent or more of the voting equity interests of a foreign organization or otherwise controlling the foreign organization divests itself of such ownership or control, the insured state nonmember bank shall file a notice in the form of a letter, including the name, location, and date of divestiture of the foreign organization, with the appropriate FDIC office no later than 30 days after the divestiture.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 70 FR 17558, Apr. 6, 2005]

§ 303.184 Moving an insured branch of a foreign bank.

(a) Filing procedures

(1) Where and when to file. An application by an insured branch of a foreign bank seeking the FDIC's consent to move from one location to another, as required by section 18(d)(1) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1828(d)(1)), shall be submitted in writing to the appropriate FDIC office on the date the notice required by paragraph (c) of this section is published, or within 5 days after the date of the last required publication.

(2) Content of filing. A complete letter application shall include the following information:

(i) The exact location of the proposed site, including the street address;

(ii) Details concerning any involvement in the proposal by an insider of the applicant, as defined in § 303.2(u), including any financial arrangements relating to fees, the acquisition of property, leasing of property, and construction contracts;

(iii) Comments on any changes in services to be offered, the community to be served, or any other effect the proposal may have on the applicant's compliance with the CRA; and

(iv) A copy of the newspaper publication required by paragraph (c) of this section, as well as the name and address of the newspaper and the date of the publication.

(3) Comptroller's application. If the applicant is filing an application with the Comptroller which contains the information required by paragraph (a)(2) of this section, the applicant may submit a copy to the FDIC in lieu of a separate application.

(4) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information to complete processing.

(b) Processing—

(1) Expedited processing for eligible insured branches. An application filed by an eligible insured branch as defined in § 303.181(c) of this part will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC and will receive expedited processing if the applicant is proposing to move within the same state, unless the applicant is notified to the contrary and provided with the basis for that decision. The FDIC may remove an application from expedited processing for any of the reasons set forth in § 303.11(c)(2) of this part. Absent such removal, an application processed under expedited processing will be deemed approved on the latest of the following:

(i) The 21st day after the FDIC's receipt of a substantially complete application; or

(ii) The 5th day after expiration of the comment period described in paragraph (c) of this section.

(2) Standard processing. For those applications that are not processed pursuant to the expedited procedures, the FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action as soon as the decision is rendered.

(c) Publication requirement and comment period

(1) Newspaper publications. The applicant shall publish a notice of its proposal to move from one location to another, as described in § 303.7(b), in a newspaper of general circulation in the community in which the insured branch is located prior to its being moved and in the community to which it is to be moved. The notice shall include the insured branch's current and proposed addresses.

(2) Public comments. All public comments must be received by the appropriate regional director within 15 days after the date of the last newspaper publication required by paragraph (c)(1) of this section, unless the comment period has been extended or reopened in accordance with § 303.9(b)(2).

(3) Lobby notices. If the insured branch has a public lobby, a copy of the newspaper publication shall be posted in the public lobby for at least 15 days beginning on the date of the publication required by paragraph (c)(1) of this section.

(d) Other approval criteria.

(1) The FDIC may approve an application under this section if the criteria in paragraphs (d)(1)(i) through (d)(1)(vi) of this section is satisfied.

(i) The factors set forth in section 6 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1816) have been considered and favorably resolved;

(ii) The applicant is at least adequately capitalized as defined in subpart H of part 324 of this chapter;

(iii) Any financial arrangements which have been made in connection with the proposed relocation and which involve the applicant's directors, officers, major shareholders, or their interests are fair and reasonable in comparison to similar arrangements that could have been made with independent third parties;

(iv) Compliance with the CRA and any applicable related regulations, including 12 CFR part 345, has been considered and favorably resolved;

(v) No CRA protest as defined in § 303.2(l) has been filed which remains unresolved or, where such a protest has been filed and remains unresolved, the Director or designee concurs that approval is consistent with the purposes of the CRA and the applicant agrees in writing to any conditions imposed regarding the CRA; and

(vi) The applicant agrees in writing to comply with any conditions imposed by the FDIC, other than the standard conditions defined in § 303.2(dd) which may be imposed without the applicant's written consent.

(e) Relocation of insured branch from one state to another. If the foreign bank proposes to relocate an insured state branch to a state that is outside the state where the branch is presently located, in addition to meeting the approval criteria contained in paragraph (d) of this section, the foreign bank must:

(i) Comply with any applicable state laws or regulations of the states affected by the proposed relocation; and

(ii) Obtain any required regulatory approvals from the appropriate state licensing authority of the state to which the insured branch proposes to relocate before relocating the existing branch operations and surrendering its existing license to the appropriate state licensing authority of the state from which the branch is relocating.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 70 FR 17559, Apr. 6, 2005; 78 FR 55470, Sept. 10, 2013; 83 FR 17739, Apr. 24, 2018; 85 FR 72555, Nov. 13, 2020; 86 FR 9433, Feb. 16, 2021]

§ 303.185 Merger transactions involving foreign banks or foreign organizations.

(a) Merger transactions involving an insured branch of a foreign bank. Merger transactions requiring the FDIC's prior approval as set forth in § 303.62 include any merger transaction in which the resulting institution is an insured branch of a foreign bank which is not a federal branch, or any merger transaction which involves any insured branch and any uninsured institution. In such cases:

(1) References to an eligible depository institution in subpart D of this part include an eligible insured branch as defined in § 303.181;

(2) The definition of a corporate reorganization in § 303.61(b) includes a merger transaction between an insured branch and other branches, agencies, or subsidiaries in the United States of the same foreign bank; and

(3) For the purposes of § 303.62(b)(1) on interstate mergers, a merger transaction involving an insured branch is one involving the acquisition of a branch of an insured bank without the acquisition of the bank for purposes of section 44 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831u) only when the merger transaction involves fewer than all the insured branches of the same foreign bank in the same state.

(b) Certain merger transactions with foreign organizations outside any State. Merger transactions requiring the FDIC's prior approval as set forth in § 303.62 include any merger transaction in which an insured depository institution becomes directly liable for obligations which will, after the merger transaction, be treated as deposits under section 3(l)(5)(A)(i)–(ii) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1813(l)(5)(A)(i)–(ii)), as a result of a merger or consolidation with a foreign organization or an assumption of liabilities of a foreign organization.

§ 303.186 Exemptions from insurance requirements for a state branch of a foreign bank.

(a) Filing procedures—

(1) Where to file. An application by a foreign bank for consent to operate as a noninsured state branch, as permitted by § 347.215(b) of this chapter, shall be submitted in writing to the appropriate FDIC office.

(2) Content of filing. A complete letter application shall include the following information:

(i) The kinds of deposit activities in which the state branch proposes to engage;

(ii) The expected source of deposits;

(iii) The manner in which deposits will be solicited;

(iv) How the activity will maintain or improve the availability of credit to all sectors of the United States economy, including the international trade finance sector;

(v) That the activity will not give the foreign bank an unfair competitive advantage over United States banking organizations; and

(vi) A resolution by the applicant's board of directors, or evidence of approval by senior management if a resolution is not required pursuant to the applicant's organizational documents, authorizing the filing of the application.

(3) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information to complete processing.

(4) Processing. The FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action taken.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 70 FR 17559, Apr. 6, 2005]

§ 303.187 Approval for an insured state branch of a foreign bank to conduct activities not permissible for federal branches.

(a) Filing procedures—

(1) Where to file. An application by an insured state branch seeking approval to conduct activities not permissible for a federal branch, as required by § 347.212(a) of this chapter, shall be submitted in writing to the appropriate FDIC office.

(2) Content of filing. A complete letter application shall include the following information:

(i) A brief description of the activity, including the manner in which it will be conducted and an estimate of the expected dollar volume associated with the activity;

(ii) An analysis of the impact of the proposed activity on the condition of the United States operations of the foreign bank in general and of the branch in particular, including a copy of the feasibility study, management plan, financial projections, business plan, or similar document concerning the conduct of the activity;

(iii) A resolution by the applicant's board of directors, or evidence of approval by senior management if a resolution is not required pursuant to the applicant's organizational documents, authorizing the filing of the application;

(iv) A statement by the applicant of whether it is in compliance with sections 347.209 and 347.210 of this chapter;

(v) A statement by the applicant that it has complied with all requirements of the Board of Governors concerning applications to conduct the activity in question and the status of each such application, including a copy of the Board of Governors' disposition of such application, if applicable; and

(vi) A statement of why the activity will pose no significant risk to the Deposit Insurance Fund.

(3) Board of Governors application. If the application to the Board of Governors contains the information required by paragraph (a) of this section, the applicant may submit a copy to the FDIC in lieu of a separate letter application.

(4) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information to complete processing.

(b) Divestiture or cessation—

(1) Where to file. Divestiture plans necessitated by a change in law or other authority, as required by § 347.212(e) of this chapter, shall be submitted in writing to the appropriate FDIC office.

(2) Content of filing. A complete letter application shall include the following information:

(i) A detailed description of the manner in which the applicant proposes to divest itself of or cease the activity in question; and

(ii) A projected timetable describing how long the divestiture or cessation is expected to take.

(3) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information to complete processing.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 70 FR 17559, Apr. 6, 2005; 71 FR 20526, Apr. 21, 2006]

§§ 303.188-303.199 [Reserved]

Subpart K - Prompt Corrective Action

§ 303.200 Scope.

(a) General.

(1) This subpart covers applications filed pursuant to section 38 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831o), which requires insured depository institutions that are not adequately capitalized to receive approval prior to engaging in certain activities. Section 38 restricts or prohibits certain activities and requires an insured depository institution to submit a capital restoration plan when it becomes undercapitalized. The restrictions and prohibitions become more severe as an institution's capital level declines.

(2) Definitions of the capital categories referenced in this Prompt Corrective Action subpart may be found in subpart H of part 324 of this chapter.

(b) Institutions covered. Restrictions and prohibitions contained in subpart H of part 324 of this chapter apply primarily to FDIC-supervised institutions, as well as to directors and senior executive officers of those institutions. Portions of subpart H of part 324 of this chapter also apply to all insured depository institutions that are deemed to be critically undercapitalized.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 78 FR 55470, Sept. 10, 2013; 83 FR 17739, Apr. 24, 2018; 85 FR 3245, Jan. 21, 2020]

§ 303.201 Filing procedures.

Applications shall be filed with the appropriate FDIC office. The application shall contain the information specified in each respective section of this subpart, and shall be in letter form as prescribed in § 303.3. Additional information may be requested by the FDIC. Such letter shall be signed by the president, senior officer or a duly authorized agent of the insured depository institution and be accompanied by a certified copy of a resolution adopted by the institution's board of directors or trustees authorizing the application.

§ 303.202 Processing.

The FDIC will provide the applicant with a subsequent written notification of the final action taken as soon as the decision is rendered.

§ 303.203 Applications for capital distributions.

(a) Scope. An FDIC-supervised institution shall submit an application for a capital distribution if, after having made a capital distribution, the institution would be undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized, or critically undercapitalized.

(b) Content of filing. An application to repurchase, redeem, retire, or otherwise acquire shares or ownership interests of the FDIC-supervised institution shall describe the proposal, the shares or obligations that are the subject thereof, and the additional shares or obligations of the institution that will be issued in at least an amount equivalent to the distribution. The application also shall explain how the proposal will reduce the institution's financial obligations or otherwise improve its financial condition. If the proposed action also requires an application under § 303.241 of this part regarding prior consent to retire capital, such application should be filed concurrently with, or made a part of, the application filed pursuant to section 38 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831o).

[85 FR 3245, Jan. 21, 2020]

§ 303.204 Applications for acquisitions, branching, and new lines of business.

(a) Scope.

(1) Any insured State nonmember bank, any insured State savings association, and any insured branch of a foreign bank which is undercapitalized or significantly undercapitalized, and any insured depository institution which is critically undercapitalized, shall submit an application to engage in acquisitions, branching or new lines of business.

(2) A new line of business will include any new activity exercised which, although it may be permissible, has not been exercised by the institution.

(b) Content of filing. Applications shall describe the proposal, state the date the institution's capital restoration plan was accepted by its primary Federal regulator, describe the institution's status in implementing the plan, and explain how the proposed action is consistent with and will further the achievement of the plan or otherwise further the purposes of section 38 of the FDI Act. If the FDIC is not the applicant's primary Federal regulator, the application also should state whether approval has been requested from the applicant's primary Federal regulator, the date of such request and the disposition of the request, if any. If the proposed action also requires applications pursuant to section 18 (c) or (d) of the FDI Act (mergers and branches) (12 U.S.C. 1828 (c) or (d)), such applications should be filed concurrently with, or made a part of, the application filed pursuant to section 38 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831o).

[86 FR 8097, Feb. 3, 2021]

§ 303.205 Applications for bonuses and increased compensation for senior executive officers.

(a) Scope. Any insured State nonmember bank, insured State savings association, or insured branch of a foreign bank that is significantly or critically undercapitalized, or any insured State nonmember bank, any insured State savings association, or any insured branch of a foreign bank that is undercapitalized and which has failed to submit or implement in any material respect an acceptable capital restoration plan, shall submit an application to pay a bonus or increase compensation for any senior executive officer.

(b) Content of filing. Applications shall list each proposed bonus or increase in compensation, and for the latter shall identify compensation for each of the twelve calendar months preceding the calendar month in which the institution became undercapitalized. Applications also shall state the date the institution's capital restoration plan was accepted by the FDIC, and describe any progress made in implementing the plan.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 86 FR 8097, Feb. 3, 2021]

§ 303.206 Application for payment of principal or interest on subordinated debt.

(a) Scope. Any critically undercapitalized insured depository institution shall submit an application to pay principal or interest on subordinated debt.

(b) Content of filing. Applications shall describe the proposed payment and provide an explanation of action taken under section 38(h)(3)(A)(ii) of the FDI Act (action other than receivership or conservatorship). The application also shall explain how such payments would further the purposes of section 38 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831o). Existing approvals pursuant to requests filed under section 18(i)(1) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1828(i)(1)) (capital stock reductions or retirements) shall not be deemed to be the permission needed pursuant to section 38.

§ 303.207 Restricted activities for critically undercapitalized institutions.

(a) Scope. Any critically undercapitalized insured depository institution shall submit an application to engage in certain restricted activities.

(b) Content of filing. Applications to engage in any of the following activities, as set forth in sections 38(i)(2) (A) through (G) of the FDI Act, shall describe the proposed activity and explain how the activity would further the purposes of section 38 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831o):

(1) Enter into any material transaction other than in the usual course of business including any action with respect to which the institution is required to provide notice to the appropriate federal banking agency. Materiality will be determined on a case-by-case basis;

(2) Extend credit for any highly leveraged transaction. A highly leveraged transaction means an extension of credit to or investment in a business by an insured depository institution where the financing transaction involves a buyout, acquisition, or recapitalization of an existing business and one of the following criteria is met:

(i) The transaction results in a liabilities-to-assets leverage ratio higher than 75 percent; or

(ii) The transaction at least doubles the subject company's liabilities and results in a liabilities-to-assets leverage ratio higher than 50 percent; or

(iii) The transaction is designated an highly leverage transaction by a syndication agent or a federal bank regulator.

(iv) Loans and exposures to any obligor in which the total financing package, including all obligations held by all participants is $20 million or more, or such lower level as the FDIC may establish by order on a case-by-case basis, will be excluded from this definition.

(3) Amend the institution's charter or bylaws, except to the extent necessary to carry out any other requirement of any law, regulation, or order;

(4) Make any material change in accounting methods;

(5) Engage in any covered transaction (as defined in section 23A(b) of the Federal Reserve Act (12 U.S.C. 371c(b));

(6) Pay excessive compensation or bonuses. Part 364 of this chapter provides guidance for determining excessive compensation; or

(7) Pay interest on new or renewed liabilities at a rate that would increase the institution's weighted average cost of funds to a level significantly exceeding the prevailing rates of interest on insured deposits in the institution's normal market area. Section 337.6 of this chapter (Brokered deposits) provides guidance for defining the relevant terms of this provision; however this provision does not supersede the general prohibitions contained in § 337.6.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 78 FR 55470, Sept. 10, 2013]

§§ 303.208-303.219 [Reserved]

Subpart L - Section 19 of the FDI Act (Consent to Service of Persons Convicted of, or Who Have Program Entries for, Certain Criminal Offenses)

Source:

85 FR 51319, Aug. 20, 2020, unless otherwise noted.

§ 303.220 What is section 19 of the FDI Act?

(a) This subpart covers applications under section 19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDI Act), 12 U.S.C. 1829. Under section 19, any person who has been convicted of any criminal offense involving dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering, or has agreed to enter into a pretrial diversion or similar program (program entry) in connection with a prosecution for such offense, may not become, or continue as, an institution-affiliated party (IAP) of an insured depository institution (IDI); own or control, directly or indirectly, any IDI; or otherwise participate, directly or indirectly, in the conduct of the affairs of any IDI without the prior written consent of the FDIC.

(b) In addition, the law bars an IDI from permitting such a person to engage in any conduct or to continue any relationship prohibited by section 19. IDIs should therefore make a reasonable inquiry regarding an applicant's history to ensure that a person who has a conviction or program entry covered by the provisions of section 19 is not hired or permitted to participate in its affairs without the written consent of the FDIC issued under this subpart. FDIC-supervised IDIs may extend a conditional offer of employment contingent on the completion of a background check satisfactory to the institution and to determine if the applicant is barred under section 19, but the job applicant may not work for, be employed by, or otherwise participate in the affairs of the IDI until the IDI has determined that the applicant is not barred under section 19.

(c) If there is a conviction or program entry covered by the bar of section 19, an application under this subpart must be filed seeking the FDIC's consent to become, or to continue as, an IAP; to own or control, directly or indirectly, an IDI; or to otherwise participate, directly or indirectly, in the affairs of the IDI. The application must be filed, and consented to, prior to serving in any of the foregoing capacities unless such application is not required under the subsequent provisions of this subpart. The purpose of an application is to provide the applicant an opportunity to demonstrate that, notwithstanding the bar, a person is fit to participate in the conduct of the affairs of an IDI without posing a risk to its safety and soundness or impairing public confidence in that institution. The burden is upon the applicant to establish that the application warrants approval.

§ 303.221 Who is covered by section 19?

(a) Section 19 covers IAPs, as defined by 12 U.S.C. 1813(u), and others who are participants in the conduct of the affairs of an IDI. Therefore, all employees of an IDI that fall within the scope of section 19, including de facto employees, as determined by the FDIC based upon generally applicable standards of employment law, will also be subject to section 19. Whether other persons who are not IAPs are covered depends upon their degree of influence or control over the management or affairs of an IDI. In the context of the FDIC's application of section 19, coverage would apply to an IDI's holding company's directors and officers to the extent that they have the power to define and direct the management or affairs of an IDI. Similarly, directors and officers of affiliates, subsidiaries or joint ventures of an IDI or its holding company will be covered if they participate in the affairs of the IDI or are in a position to influence or control the management or affairs of the insured institution. Typically, an independent contractor does not have a relationship with the IDI other than the activity for which the institution has contracted. An independent contractor who influences or controls the management or affairs of the IDI would be covered by section 19.

(b) The term “person,” for purposes of section 19, means an individual, and does not include a corporation, firm, or other business entity.

(c) Individuals who file an application with the FDIC under the provisions of section 19 who also seek to participate in the affairs of a bank holding company or savings and loan holding company may have to comply with any filing requirements of the Board of the Governors of the Federal Reserve System under 12 U.S.C. 1829(d) and (e).

(d) Section 19 specifically prohibits a person subject to its provisions from owning or controlling an IDI. The terms “control” and “ownership” under section 19 shall have the meaning given to the term “control” in the Change in Bank Control Act (12 U.S.C. 1817(j)(8)(B)). A person will be deemed to exercise “control” if that person has the power to vote 25 percent or more of the voting shares of an IDI (or 10 percent of the voting shares if no other person has more shares) or the ability to direct the management or policies of the institution. Under the same standards, a person will be deemed to “own” an IDI if that person owns 25 percent or more of the institution's voting stock, or 10 percent of the voting shares if no other person owns more. These standards would also apply to an individual acting in concert with others so as to have such ownership or control. Absent the FDIC's consent, persons subject to the prohibitions of section 19 will be required to divest their control or ownership of shares above the foregoing limits.

§ 303.222 What offenses are covered under section 19?

(a) The conviction or program entry must be for a criminal offense involving dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering. “Dishonesty” means directly or indirectly to cheat or defraud, to cheat or defraud for monetary gain or its equivalent, or wrongfully to take property belonging to another in violation of any criminal statute. Dishonesty includes acts involving want of integrity, lack of probity, or a disposition to distort, cheat, or act deceitfully or fraudulently, and includes offenses that Federal, state or local laws define as dishonest. “Breach of trust” means a wrongful act, use, misappropriation, or omission with respect to any property or fund that has been committed to a person in a fiduciary or official capacity, or the misuse of one's official or fiduciary position to engage in a wrongful act, use, misappropriation, or omission.

(b) Whether a crime involves dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering will be determined from the statutory elements of the offense itself or from court determinations that the statutory provisions of the offense involve dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering.

(c) All convictions or program entries for offenses concerning the illegal manufacture, sale, distribution of, or trafficking in controlled substances shall require an application unless no application is required under this subpart. Convictions or program entries for criminal offenses involving the simple possession of a controlled substance are not covered under section 19.

§ 303.223 What constitutes a conviction under section 19?

(a) Convictions requiring an application. There must be a conviction of record. Section 19 does not cover arrests or pending cases not brought to trial, unless the person has a program entry as set out in § 303.224. Section 19 does not cover acquittals or any conviction that has been reversed on appeal, unless the reversal was for the purpose of re-sentencing. A conviction with regard to which an appeal is pending requires an application. A conviction for which a pardon has been granted will require an application.

(b) Convictions not requiring an application. When an individual is charged with a covered offense and, in the absence of a program entry as set out in § 303.224, is subsequently convicted of an offense that is not a covered offense, the conviction is not subject to section 19.

(c) Expungements. If an order of expungement or an order to seal has been issued in regard to a conviction, or if a record has been otherwise expunged by operation of law, then the conviction shall not be considered a conviction of record and shall not require an application.

(d) Youthful offenders. An adjudication by a court against a person as a “youthful offender” under any youth-offender law applicable to minors as defined by state law, or any judgment as a “juvenile delinquent” by any court having jurisdiction over minors as defined by state law, does not require an application. Such an adjudication does not constitute a matter covered under section 19 and is not a conviction or program entry for determining the applicability of § 303.227.

§ 303.224 What constitutes a pretrial diversion or similar program (program entry) under section 19?

(a) A program entry is characterized by a suspension or eventual dismissal or reversal of charges or criminal prosecution upon agreement, whether formal or informal, by the accused to treatment, rehabilitation, restitution, or other non-criminal or non-punitive alternatives. Whether the outcome of a case constitutes a program entry is determined by relevant Federal, State, or local law, and, if not so designated under applicable law, then the determination of whether a disposition is a program entry will be made by the FDIC on a case-by-case basis. Program entries prior to November 29, 1990, are not covered by section 19.

(b) When a covered offense either is reduced by a program entry to an offense that would otherwise not be covered by section 19 or is dismissed upon successful completion of a program entry, the covered offense remains a covered offense for purposes of section 19. The covered offense will require an application unless it is de minimis as provided by § 303.227 of this subpart.

(c) Expungements or sealings of program entries will be treated the same as those for convictions.

§ 303.225 What are the types of applications that can be filed?

(a) Institution filing requirement (bank-sponsored applications). Applications are required to be filed by the IDI, which intends for a person covered by the provisions of section 19 to participate in its affairs. Bank-sponsored applications shall be filed with the appropriate FDIC Regional Office, as required by this subpart.

(b) Waiver applications. If an IDI does not file an application regarding an individual, the individual may file a request for a waiver of the institution filing requirement. Such a waiver application shall be filed with the appropriate FDIC Regional Office and shall set forth substantial good cause why the application should be granted.

§ 303.226 When must an application be filed?

Except for situations in which no application is required under this subpart, an application must be filed when there is present a conviction by a court of competent jurisdiction for a covered offense by any adult or minor treated as an adult, or when such person has a program entry regarding that offense. Before an application is considered by the FDIC, all of the sentencing requirements associated with a conviction, or conditions imposed by the program entry, including but not limited to, imprisonment, fines, condition of rehabilitation, and probation requirements, must be completed, and the case must be considered final by the procedures of the applicable jurisdiction. The FDIC's application forms as well as additional information concerning section 19 can be accessed at the FDIC's regional offices or on the FDIC's website.

§ 303.227 When is an application not required for a covered offense or program entry (de minimis offenses)?

(a) In general. Approval is automatically granted and an application will not be required where all of the following de minimis criteria are met.

(1) The individual has been convicted of, or has program entries for, no more than two covered offenses, including those subject to paragraph (b) of this section; and for each covered offense, all of the sentencing requirements associated with the conviction, or conditions imposed by the program entry, have been completed (the sentence- or program-completion requirement does not apply under paragraphs (b)(2) and (4) of this section);

(2) Each covered offense was punishable by imprisonment for a term of one year or less and/or a fine of $2,500 or less, and the individual served three days or less of jail time for each covered offense. The FDIC considers jail time to include any significant restraint on an individual's freedom of movement which includes, as part of the restriction, confinement to a specific facility or building on a continuous basis where the person may leave temporarily only to perform specific functions or during specified times periods or both. Jail time includes confinement to a psychiatric treatment center in lieu of a jail, prison, or house of correction on mental-competency grounds. The definition is not intended to include any of the following:

(i) Persons on probation or parole who may be restricted to a particular jurisdiction, or who must report occasionally to an individual or to a specified location;

(ii) Persons who are restricted to a substance-abuse treatment program facility for part or all of the day; and

(iii) Persons who are ordered to attend outpatient psychiatric treatment;

(3) If there are two convictions or program entries for a covered offense, each conviction or program entry was entered at least three years prior to the date an application would otherwise be required, except as provided in paragraph (b)(1) of this section; and

(4) Each covered offense was not committed against an IDI or insured credit union.

(b) Other types of offenses for which the de minimis exception applies and no application is required

(1) Age of person at time of covered offense. If there are two convictions or program entries for a covered offense, and the actions that resulted in both convictions or program entries all occurred when the individual was 21 years of age or younger, then the de minimis criteria in paragraph (a)(3) of this section shall be met if the convictions or program entries were entered at least 18 months prior to the date an application would otherwise be required.

(2) Convictions or program entries for insufficient funds checks. Convictions or program entries of record based on the writing of “bad” or insufficient funds check(s) shall be considered de minimis offenses under this provision if the following conditions apply:

(i) The aggregate total face value of all “bad” or insufficient funds check(s) cited across all the conviction(s) or program entry(ies) for “bad” or insufficient funds checks is $1,000 or less;

(ii) No IDI or insured credit union was a payee on any of the “bad” or insufficient funds checks that were the basis of the conviction(s) or program entry(ies); and

(iii) The individual has no more than one other de minimis offense under this section.

(3) Convictions or program entries for small-dollar, simple theft. Convictions or program entries based on the simple theft of goods, services, or currency (or other monetary instrument) shall be considered de minimis offenses under this provision if the following conditions apply. Simple theft excludes burglary, forgery, robbery, identity theft, and fraud.

(i) The value of the currency, goods, or services taken is $1,000 or less;

(ii) The theft was not committed against an IDI or insured credit union;

(iii) The individual has no more than one other de minimis offense under this section; and

(iv) If there are two de minimis offenses under this section, each conviction or program entry was entered at least three years prior to the date an application would otherwise be required, or at least 18 months prior to the date an application would otherwise be required if the actions that resulted in the conviction or program entry all occurred when the individual was 21 years of age or younger.

(4) Convictions or program entries for the use of a fake, false, or altered identification. A conviction or program entry for the creation or possession of a fake, false, or altered form of identification by a person under the age of 21, or the use of a fake, false, or altered form of identification by such a person to circumvent age-based restrictions on purchases, activities, or premises entry, shall be considered a de minimis offense under this provision if the following conditions apply.

(i) The individual has no more than one other de minimis offense under this section; and

(ii) If there are two de minimis offenses under this section, each conviction or program entry was entered at least three years prior to the date an application would otherwise be required; or at least 18 months prior to the date an application would otherwise be required if the actions that resulted in the conviction or program entry all occurred when the individual was 21 years of age or younger.

(c) Fidelity bond coverage and disclosure to institutions. Any person who meets the criteria under this section shall be covered by a fidelity bond to the same extent as others in similar positions, and shall disclose the presence of the conviction(s) or program entry(ies) to all IDIs in the affairs of which he or she intends to participate.

(d) Non-qualifying convictions or program entries. No conviction or program entry for a violation of the Title 18 sections set out in 12 U.S.C. 1829(a)(2) can qualify under any of the de minimis exceptions set out in this section.

§ 303.228 How to file an application.

Forms and instructions should be obtained from the FDIC's website (www.fdic.gov), and the application must be filed with the appropriate FDIC Regional Director. The application must be filed by an IDI on behalf of a person (bank-sponsored) unless the FDIC grants a waiver of that requirement (individual waiver). Individual waivers will be considered on a case-by-case basis where substantial good cause for granting a waiver is shown. A person may request an individual waiver and file an application on her or his own behalf within the same application. The appropriate Regional Office for a bank-sponsored application is the office covering the state where the IDI's home office is located. The appropriate Regional Office for an individual filing for a waiver of the institution filing requirement is the office covering the state where the person resides. States covered by each FDIC Regional Office can be located on the FDIC's website.

§ 303.229 How an application is evaluated.

(a) The ultimate determinations in assessing an application are whether the person has demonstrated his or her fitness to participate in the conduct of the affairs of an IDI, and whether the affiliation, ownership, control, or participation by the person in the conduct of the affairs of the institution may constitute a threat to the safety and soundness of the institution or the interests of its depositors or threaten to impair public confidence in the institution. In determining the degree of risk, the FDIC will consider:

(1) Whether the conviction or program entry is for a criminal offense involving dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering and the specific nature and circumstances of the offense;

(2) Whether the participation directly or indirectly by the person in any manner in the conduct of the affairs of the IDI constitutes a threat to the safety and soundness of the institution or the interests of its depositors or threatens to impair public confidence in the institution;

(3) Evidence of rehabilitation including the person's age at the time of the covered offense, the amount of time that has elapsed since the occurrence of the conviction or program entry, and the person's employment history and full legal history;

(4) The position to be held or the level of participation by the person at an IDI;

(5) The amount of influence the person will be able to exercise over the operation, management, or affairs of an IDI;

(6) The ability of management of the IDI to supervise and control the person's activities;

(7) The level of ownership or control the person will have at an insured depository institution;

(8) The applicability of the IDI's fidelity bond coverage to the person; and

(9) Any additional factors in the specific case that appear relevant to the application or the applicant including, but not limited to, the opinion or position of the primary Federal or State regulator.

(b) The question of whether a person, who was convicted of a crime or who agreed to a program entry, was guilty of that crime shall not be at issue in a proceeding under this subpart or under 12 CFR part 308, subpart M.

(c) The foregoing factors will also be applied by the FDIC to determine whether the interests of justice are served in seeking an exception in the appropriate court when an application is made to terminate the ten-year ban prior to its expiration date under 12 U.S.C. 1829(a)(2) for certain Federal offenses.

(d) All approvals and orders will be subject to the condition that the person be covered by a fidelity bond to the same extent as others in similar positions. In cases in which a waiver of the institution filing requirement has been granted to an individual, approval of the application will also be conditioned upon that person disclosing the presence of the conviction(s) or program entry(ies) to all IDIs in the affairs of which he or she wishes to participate.

(e) When deemed appropriate, bank-sponsored applications are to allow the person to work in a specific job at a specific bank and may also be subject to the additional conditions, including that the prior consent of the FDIC will be required for any proposed significant changes in the person's duties or responsibilities. In the case of bank-sponsored applications, such proposed changes may, in the discretion of the Regional Director, require a new application.

(f) In situations in which an approval has been granted for a person to participate in the affairs of a particular IDI and the person subsequently seeks to participate at another IDI, another application must be submitted and approved by the FDIC prior to the person participating in the affairs of the other IDI.

§ 303.230 What will the FDIC do if the application is denied?

(a) The FDIC will inform the applicant in writing that the application has been denied and summarize or cite the relevant considerations specified in § 303.229 of this subpart.

(b) The denial will also notify the applicant that a written request for a hearing under 12 CFR part 308, subpart M, may be filed with the Executive Secretary within 60 days after the denial. The request for a hearing must include the relief desired, the grounds supporting the request for relief, and any supporting evidence.

§ 303.231 Waiting time for a subsequent application if an application is denied.

An application under section 19 may be made in writing at any time more than one year after the issuance of a decision denying an application under section 19. If the original denial is subject to a request for a hearing, then the subsequent application may be filed at any time more than one year after the decision of the Board of Directors, or its designee, denying the application. The prohibition against participating in the affairs of an IDI under section 19 shall continue until the individual has been granted consent in writing to participate in the affairs of an IDI by the Board of Directors or its designee.

Subpart M - Other Filings

§ 303.240 General.

This subpart sets forth the filing procedures to be followed when seeking the FDIC's consent to engage in certain activities or accomplish other matters as specified in the individual sections contained herein. For those matters covered by this subpart that also have substantive FDIC regulations or related statements of policy, references to the relevant regulations or statements of policy are contained in the specific sections.

§ 303.241 Reduce or retire capital stock or capital debt instruments.

(a) Scope

(1) Insured State nonmember banks. The procedures contained in this section are to be followed by an insured State nonmember bank to seek the prior approval of the FDIC to reduce the amount or retire any part of its common or preferred stock, or to retire any part of its capital notes or debentures pursuant to section 18(i)(1) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1828(i)(1)).

(2) Insured State savings associations. The procedures contained in this section are to be followed by an insured State savings association to seek the prior approval of the FDIC to reduce the amount or retire any part of its common or preferred stock, or to retire any part of its capital notes or debentures, as if the insured State savings association were a State nonmember bank subject to section 18(i)(1) of the Act (12 U.S.C. 1828(i)(1)).

(b) Where to file. Applicants shall submit a letter application to the appropriate FDIC office.

(c) Content of filing. The application shall contain the following:

(1) The type and amount of the proposed change to the capital structure and the reason for the change;

(2) A schedule detailing the present and proposed capital structure;

(3) The time period that the proposal will encompass;

(4) If the proposal involves a series of transactions affecting Tier 1 capital components which will be consummated over a period of time which shall not exceed twelve months, the application shall certify that the insured depository institution will maintain itself as a well-capitalized institution as defined in part 324 of this chapter both before and after each of the proposed transactions;

(5) If the proposal involves the repurchase of capital instruments, the amount of the repurchase price and the basis for establishing the fair market value of the repurchase price;

(6) A statement that the proposal will be available to all holders of a particular class of outstanding capital instruments on an equal basis, and if not, the details of any restrictions; and

(7) The date that the applicant's board of directors approved the proposal.

(d) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information at any time during processing of the application.

(e) Undercapitalized institutions. Procedures regarding applications by an undercapitalized insured depository institution to retire capital stock or capital debt instruments pursuant to section 38 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831o) are set forth in subpart K (Prompt Corrective Action), § 303.203. Applications pursuant to section 38 and this section should be filed concurrently, or as a single application.

(f) Expedited processing for eligible depository institutions. An application filed under this section by an eligible depository institution as defined in§ 303.2(r) will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC and will receive expedited processing, unless the applicant is notified in writing to the contrary and provided with the basis for that decision. The FDIC may remove an application from expedited processing for any of the reasons set forth in § 303.11(c)(2). Absent such removal, an application processed under expedited processing will be deemed approved 20 days after the FDIC's receipt of a substantially complete application.

(g) Standard processing. For those applications that are not processed pursuant to expedited procedures, the FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action as soon as the decision is rendered.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 78 FR 55470, Sept. 30, 2013; 83 FR 17739, Apr. 24, 2018; 85 FR 3245, Jan. 21, 2020]

§ 303.242 Exercise of trust powers.

(a) Scope. This section contains the procedures to be followed by a State nonmember bank or State savings association that seeks to obtain the FDIC's prior written consent to exercise trust powers. The FDIC's prior written consent to exercise trust powers is not required in the following circumstances:

(1) Where a State nonmember bank or State savings association received authority to exercise trust powers from its chartering authority prior to December 1, 1950; or

(2) Where the institution continues to conduct trust activities pursuant to authority granted by its chartering authority subsequent to a charter conversion or withdrawal from membership in the Federal Reserve System.

(b) Where to file. Applicants shall submit to the appropriate FDIC office a completed form, “Application for Consent to Exercise Trust Powers.” This form may be obtained from any FDIC regional director.

(c) Content of filing. The filing shall consist of the completed trust application form.

(d) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information at any time during processing of the filing.

(e) Expedited processing for eligible depository institutions. An application filed under this section by an eligible depository institution as defined in § 303.2(r) will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC and will receive expedited processing, unless the applicant is notified in writing to the contrary and provided with the basis for that decision. The FDIC may remove an application from expedited processing for any of the reasons set forth in § 303.11(c)(2.). Absent such removal, an application processed under expedited procedures will be deemed approved 30 days after the FDIC's receipt of a substantially complete application.

(f) Standard processing. For those applications that are not processed pursuant to the expedited procedures, the FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action when the decision is rendered.

[83 FR 60337, Nov. 26, 2018]

§ 303.243 Brokered deposits.

(a) Brokered deposit waivers

(1) Scope. Pursuant to section 29 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1831f) and part 337 of this chapter, an adequately capitalized insured depository institution may not accept, renew or roll over any brokered deposits unless it has obtained a waiver from the FDIC. A well-capitalized insured depository institution may accept brokered deposits without a waiver, and an undercapitalized insured depository institution may not accept, renew or roll over any brokered deposits under any circumstances. This section contains the procedures to be followed to file with the FDIC for a brokered deposit waiver. The FDIC will provide notice to the depository institution's appropriate federal banking agency and any state regulatory agency, as appropriate, that a request for a waiver has been filed and will consult with such agency or agencies, prior to taking action on the institution's request for a waiver. Prior notice and/or consultation shall not be required in any particular case if the FDIC determines that the circumstances require it to take action without giving such notice and opportunity for consultation.

(2) Where to file. Applicants shall submit a letter application to the appropriate FDIC office.

(3) Content of filing. The application shall contain the following:

(i) The time period for which the waiver is requested;

(ii) A statement of the policy governing the use of brokered deposits in the institution's overall funding and liquidity management program;

(iii) The volume, rates and maturities of the brokered deposits held currently and anticipated during the waiver period sought, including any internal limits placed on the terms, solicitation and use of brokered deposits;

(iv) How brokered deposits are costed and compared to other funding alternatives and how they are used in the institution's lending and investment activities, including a detailed discussion of asset growth plans;

(v) Procedures and practices used to solicit brokered deposits, including an identification of the principal sources of such deposits;

(vi) Management systems overseeing the solicitation, acceptance and use of brokered deposits;

(vii) A recent consolidated financial statement with balance sheet and income statements; and

(viii) The reasons the institution believes its acceptance, renewal, or rollover of brokered deposits would pose no undue risk.

(4) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information at any time during processing of the application.

(5) Expedited processing for eligible depository institutions. An application filed under this section by an eligible depository institution as defined in this paragraph will be acknowledged in writing by the FDIC and will receive expedited processing, unless the applicant is notified in writing to the contrary and provided with the basis for that decision. For the purpose of this section, an applicant will be deemed an eligible depository institution if it satisfies all of the criteria contained in § 303.2(r) except that the applicant may be adequately capitalized rather than well-capitalized. The FDIC may remove an application from expedited processing for any of the reasons set forth in § 303.11(c)(2). Absent such removal, an application processed under expedited procedures will be deemed approved 21 days after the FDIC's receipt of a substantially complete application.

(6) Standard processing. For those filings which are not processed pursuant to the expedited procedures, the FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action as soon as the decision is rendered.

(7) Conditions for approval. A waiver issued pursuant to this section shall:

(i) Be for a fixed period, generally no longer than two years, but may be extended upon refiling; and

(ii) May be revoked by the FDIC at any time by written notice to the institution.

(b) Primary purpose exception notices and applications

(1) Scope. This section sets forth a process for an agent or nominee, or an insured depository institution on behalf of an agent or nominee, to notify the FDIC that it will rely upon a designated exception in § 337.6(a)(5)(v)(I)(1)(i) and (ii) of this chapter. This section also sets forth a process for an agent or nominee, or an insured depository institution on behalf of an agent or nominee, to apply for the primary purpose exception, as described in § 337.6(a)(5)(v)(I)(2) of this chapter.

(2) Definitions. For purposes of this paragraph (b):

(i) Third party means an agent or nominee that submits a notice that it will rely upon a designated exception in § 337.6(a)(5)(v)(I)(1)(i) and (ii) of this chapter or applies to be excluded from the definition of deposit broker pursuant to the primary purpose exception as described in § 337.6(a)(5)(v)(I)(2) of this chapter.

(ii) Notice filer means a third party or an insured depository institution on behalf of a third party, that submits a written notice that the third party will rely upon a designated business exception in § 337.6(a)(5)(v)(I)(1)(i) and (ii) of this chapter.

(iii) Applicant means a third party, or an insured depository institution on behalf of a third party, that applies to be excluded from the definition of deposit broker pursuant to the primary purpose exception, as described in § 337.6(a)(5)(v)(I)(2) of this chapter.

(3) Notice requirement for designated business exceptions. A third party, or an insured depository institution on behalf of a third party, must notify the FDIC through a written notice that the third party will rely upon a designated business exception described in § 337.6(a)(5)(v)(I)(1)(i) and (ii) of this chapter in order to rely on that designated business exception.

(i) Contents of notice. The notice must include: The designated exception upon which the third party will rely; a brief description of the business line; the applicable specific contents for the designated exception; either a statement that there is no involvement of any additional third party who qualifies as a deposit broker or a brief description of any additional third party that may qualify as a deposit broker; and if the notice is provided by a nonbank third party, a list of the insured depository institutions that are receiving deposits by or through the particular business line. The applicable specific contents for the following designated exceptions are:

(A) 25 percent test (as described in § 337.6(a)(5)(v)(I)(1)(i) of this chapter).

(1) The total amount of customer assets under administration by the third party for that particular business line; and

(2) The total amount of deposits placed by the third party on behalf of its customers, for that particular business line, at all depository institutions, being placed by that third party.

(B) Enabling transactions test (as described in § 337.6(a)(5)(v)(I)(1)(ii) of this chapter).

(1) Contractual evidence that there is no interest, fees, or other remuneration, being paid to any customer accounts; and

(2) A certification that all customer deposits that are placed at insured depository institutions are in transaction accounts.

(ii) Additional information for notices. The FDIC may request additional information from the notice filer at any time after receipt of the notice.

(iii) Additional notice filers. The FDIC may include notice and/or reporting requirements as part of a designated exception identified under § 337.6(a)(5)(v)(I)(2)(xiv) of this chapter.

(iv) Subsequent notices. A notice filer that previously submitted a notice under this section shall submit a subsequent notice to the FDIC if, at any point, the notice filer no longer meets the designated business exception that was the subject of its previous notice.

(v) Ongoing requirements for notice filers. Notice filers that submit a notice under the 25 percent test must provide quarterly updates to the FDIC on the figures described in paragraph (b)(3)(i)(A) of this section that were provided as part of the written notice. Notice filers that submit a notice under the enabling transactions test must provide an annual certification to the FDIC that the third party continues to place all customer funds at insured depository institutions into transaction accounts and that customers do not receive any interest, fees, or other remuneration.

(vi) Revocation of primary purpose exception. The FDIC may, with notice, revoke a primary purpose exception of a third party, or a person required to submit a notice under paragraph (b)(3)(iii) of this section, that qualifies for the primary purpose exception due to reliance on a designated exception, if:

(A) The third party no longer meets the criteria for a designated exception;

(B) The notice or subsequent reporting is inaccurate; or

(C) The notice filer fails to submit required reports.

(4) Application requirements. A third party, or an insured depository institution on behalf of a third party, may submit an application to the FDIC seeking a primary purpose exception for business relationships not designated in § 337.6(a)(5)(v)(I)(1) of this chapter.

(i) For applications for primary purpose exception to enable transactions with fees, interest, or other remuneration provided to the depositor. Applicants that seek the primary purpose exception where customer funds that are placed at depository institutions are placed into transaction accounts, and fees, interest, or other remuneration are provided to the depositor, must include the following information, with respect to the particular business line:

(A) Contractual evidence on the amount of interest, fees, or other remuneration, being paid on customer accounts;

(B) Any marketing materials provided by the third party to insured depository institutions or its customers;

(C) The average number of transactions for all customer accounts, and an explanation of how its customers utilize its services for the purpose of making payments and not for the receipt of a deposit placement service or deposit insurance;

(D) The percentage of customer funds placed in deposit accounts that are not transaction accounts;

(E) A description of any additional third parties that provide assistance with the placement of deposits at insured depository institutions; and

(F) Any other information that the FDIC requires to initiate its review and render the application complete.

(ii) For applications for primary purpose exception not covered by paragraph (b)(4)(i) of this section. Applicants that seek the primary purpose exception, other than applications under paragraph (b)(4)(i) of this section, must include, to the extent applicable:

(A) A description of the deposit placement arrangements between the third party and insured depository institutions for the particular business line, including the services provided by any relevant third parties;

(B) A description of the particular business line;

(C) A description of the primary purpose of the particular business line;

(D) The total amount of customer assets under management by the third party, with respect to the particular business line;

(E) The total amount of deposits placed by the third party at all insured depository institutions, including the amounts placed with the applicant, if the applicant is an insured depository institution, with respect to the particular business line. This includes the total amount of term deposits and transactional deposits placed by the third party, but should be exclusive of the amount of brokered CDs, as defined in § 337.6(a)(5)(v)(I)(3) of this chapter, being placed by that third party;

(F) Revenue generated from the third party's activities related to the placement, or facilitating the placement, of deposits, with respect to the particular business line;

(G) Revenue generated from the third party's activities not related to the placement, or facilitating the placement, of deposits, with respect to the particular business line;

(H) A description of the marketing activities provided by the third party, with respect to the particular business line;

(I) The reasons the third party meets the primary purpose exception;

(J) Any other information the applicant deems relevant; and

(K) Any other information that the FDIC requires to initiate its review and render the application complete.

(iii) Additional information for applications. The FDIC may request additional information from the applicant at any time during processing of the application.

(iv) Application timing.

(A) An applicant that submits a complete application under this section will receive a written determination by the FDIC within 120 days of receipt of a complete application.

(B) If an application is submitted that is not complete, the FDIC will, within 45 days of submission, notify the applicant and explain what is needed to render the application complete.

(C) The FDIC may extend the 120-day timeframe, if necessary, to complete its review of a complete application, with notice to the applicant, for a maximum of 120 additional days.

(v) Application approvals. The FDIC will approve an application—

(A) Submitted under paragraph (b)(4)(i) of this section if the FDIC finds that the third party's marketing materials indicate that the primary purpose of placing customer deposits at insured depository institutions is to enable transactions, and:

(1) Nominal interest, fees, or other remuneration is being paid on any customer accounts, or

(2) The third party's customers make, on average, more than 6 transactions a month.

(B) Submitted under paragraph (b)(4)(ii) of this section if the FDIC finds that the applicant demonstrates that, with respect to the particular business line under which the third party places or facilitates the placement of deposits, the primary purpose of the third party's business relationship with its customers is a purpose other than the placement or facilitation of the placement of deposits.

(vi) Ongoing reporting for applications.

(A) The FDIC will describe any reporting requirements, if applicable, as part of its written approval for a primary purpose exception.

(B) Applicants that receive a written approval for the primary purpose exception, shall provide reporting to the FDIC and, in the case of an insured depository institution, to its primary Federal regulator, if required under this section.

(vii) Requesting additional information, requiring re-application, imposing additional conditions, and withdrawing approvals. At any time after approval of an application for the primary purpose exception, the FDIC may at its discretion, with written notice and adequate justification:

(A) Require additional information from an applicant to ensure that the approval is still appropriate, or for purposes of verifying the accuracy and correctness of the information provided to an insured depository institution or submitted to the FDIC as part of the application under this section;

(B) Require the applicant to reapply for approval;

(C) Impose additional conditions on an approval; or

(D) Withdraw an approval.

[86 FR 6787, Jan. 22, 2021]

§ 303.244 Golden parachute and severance plan payments.

(a) Scope. Pursuant to section 18(k) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1828(k)) and part 359 of this chapter, an insured depository institution or depository institution holding company may not make golden parachute payments or excess nondiscriminatory severance plan payments unless the depository institution or holding company obtains permission to make such payments in accordance with the rules contained in part 359 of this chapter. This section contains the procedures to file for the FDIC's consent when such consent is necessary under part 359 of this chapter.

(1) Golden parachute payments. A troubled insured depository institution or a troubled depository institution holding company is prohibited from making golden parachute payments (as defined in § 359.1(f)(1) of this chapter) unless it obtains the consent of the appropriate federal banking agency and the written concurrence of the FDIC. Therefore, in the case of golden parachute payments, the procedures in this section apply to all troubled insured depository institutions and troubled depository institution holding companies.

(2) Excess nondiscriminatory severance plan payments. In the case of excess nondiscriminatory severance plan payments as provided by § 359.1(f)(2)(v) of this chapter, the FDIC's consent is necessary for state nonmember banks that meet the criteria set forth in § 359.1(f)(1)(ii) of this chapter. In addition, the FDIC's consent is required for all insured depository institutions or depository institution holding companies that meet the same criteria and seek to make payments in excess of the 12-month amount specified in § 359.1(f)(2)(v).

(b) Where to file. Applicants shall submit a letter application to the appropriate FDIC regional director.

(c) Content of filing. The application shall contain the following:

(1) The reasons why the applicant seeks to make the payment;

(2) An identification of the institution-affiliated party who will receive the payment;

(3) A copy of any contract or agreement regarding the subject matter of the filing;

(4) The cost of the proposed payment and its impact on the institution's capital and earnings;

(5) The reasons why the consent to the payment should be granted; and

(6) Certification and documentation as to each of the points cited in § 359.4(a)(4).

(d) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information at any time during processing of the filing.

(e) Processing. The FDIC will provide the applicant with a subsequent written notification of the final action taken as soon as the decision is rendered.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 68 FR 50461, Aug. 21, 2003]

§ 303.245 Waiver of liability for commonly controlled depository institutions.

(a) Scope. Section 5(e) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1815(e)) creates liability for commonly controlled insured depository institutions for losses incurred or anticipated to be incurred by the FDIC in connection with the default of a commonly controlled insured depository institution or any assistance provided by the FDIC to any commonly controlled insured depository institution in danger of default. In addition to certain statutory exceptions and exclusions contained in sections 5(e)(6), (7) and (8), the FDI Act also permits the FDIC, in its discretion, to exempt any insured depository institution from this liability if it determines that such exemption is in the best interests of the Deposit Insurance Fund. This section describes procedures to request a conditional waiver of liability pursuant to section 5 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1815(e)(5)(A)).

(b) Definition. Conditional waiver of liability means an exemption from liability pursuant to section 5(e) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1815(e)) subject to terms and conditions.

(c) Where to file. Applicants shall submit a letter application to the appropriate FDIC office.

(d) Content of filing. The application shall contain the following information:

(1) The basis for requesting a waiver;

(2) The existence of any significant events (e.g., change in control, capital injection, etc.) that may have an impact upon the applicant and/or any potentially liable institution;

(3) Current, and if applicable, pro forma financial information regarding the applicant and potentially liable institution(s); and

(4) The benefits to the appropriate FDIC insurance fund resulting from the waiver and any related events.

(e) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information at any time during the processing of the filing.

(f) Processing. The FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action as soon as the decision is rendered.

(g) Failure to comply with terms of conditional waiver. In the event a conditional waiver of liability is issued, failure to comply with the terms specified therein may result in the termination of the conditional waiver of liability. The FDIC reserves the right to revoke the conditional waiver of liability after giving the applicant written notice of such revocation and a reasonable opportunity to be heard on the matter pursuant to § 303.10.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002, as amended at 71 FR 20526, Apr. 21, 2006]

§ 303.246 Conversion with diminution of capital.

(a) Scope. This section contains the procedures to be followed by an insured federal depository institution seeking the prior written consent of the FDIC pursuant to section 18(i)(2) of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1828(i)(2)) to convert from an insured federal depository institution to an insured state nonmember bank (except a District bank) where the capital stock or surplus of the resulting bank will be less than the capital stock or surplus, respectively, of the converting institution at the time of the shareholders' meeting approving such conversion.

(b) Where to file. Applicants shall submit a letter application to the appropriate FDIC office.

(c) Content of filing. The application shall contain the following information:

(1) A description of the proposed transaction;

(2) A schedule detailing the present and proposed capital structure; and

(3) A copy of any documents submitted to the state chartering authority with respect to the charter conversion.

(d) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information at any time during the processing.

(e) Processing. The FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action when the decision is rendered.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002. Redesignated at 71 FR 20526, Apr. 21, 2006]

§ 303.247 Continue or resume status as an insured institution following termination under section 8 of the FDI Act.

(a) Scope. This section relates to an application by a depository institution whose insured status has been terminated under section 8 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1818) for permission to continue or resume its status as an insured depository institution. This section covers institutions whose deposit insurance continues in effect for any purpose or for any length of time under the terms of an FDIC order terminating deposit insurance, but does not cover operating non-insured depository institutions which were previously insured by the FDIC, or any non-insured, non-operating depository institution whose charter has not been surrendered or revoked.

(b) Where to file. Applicants shall submit a letter application to the appropriate FDIC office.

(c) Content of filing. The filing shall contain the following information:

(1) A complete statement of the action requested, all relevant facts, and the reason for such requested action; and

(2) A certified copy of the resolution of the depository institution's board of directors authorizing submission of the filing.

(d) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information at any time during processing of the filing.

(e) Processing. The FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action as soon as the decision is rendered.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002. Redesignated at 71 FR 20526, Apr. 21, 2006]

§ 303.248 Truth in Lending Act—Relief from reimbursement.

(a) Scope. This section applies to requests for relief from reimbursement pursuant to the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.) and Regulation Z (12 CFR part 226). Related delegations of authority are also set forth.

(b) Procedures to be followed in filing initial requests for relief. Requests for relief from reimbursement shall be filed with the appropriate FDIC office or within 60 days after receipt of the compliance report of examination containing the request to conduct a file search and make restitution to affected customers. The filing shall contain a complete and concise statement of the action requested, all relevant facts, the reasons and analysis relied upon as the basis for such requested action, and all supporting documentation.

(c) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information at any time during processing of any such requests.

(d) Processing. The FDIC will acknowledge receipt of the request for reconsideration and provide the applicant with written notification of its determination within 60 days of its receipt of the request for reconsideration.

(e) Procedures to be followed in filing requests for reconsideration. Within 15 days of receipt of written notice that its request for relief has been denied, the requestor may petition the appropriate FDIC office for reconsideration of such request in accordance with the procedures set forth in§ 303.11(f).

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002. Redesignated at 71 FR 20526, Apr. 21, 2006]

§ 303.249 Management official interlocks.

(a) Scope. This section contains the procedures to be followed by an insured State nonmember bank or an insured State savings association to seek the approval of FDIC to establish an interlock pursuant to the Depository Institutions Management Interlocks Act (12 U.S.C. 3207), section 13 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1823(k)), and part 348 of this chapter.

(b) Where to file. Applicants shall submit a letter application to the appropriate FDIC office.

(c) Content of filing. The application shall contain the following:

(1) A description of the proposed interlock;

(2) A statement of reason as to why the interlock will not result in a monopoly or a substantial lessening of competition; and

(3) If the applicant is seeking an exemption set forth in § 348.6 of this chapter, a description of the particular exemption which is being requested and a statement of reasons as to why the exemption is applicable.

(d) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information at any time during processing of the filing.

(e) Processing. The FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action when the decision is rendered.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002. Redesignated at 71 FR 20526, Apr. 21, 2006; 84 FR 2706, Feb. 8, 2019; 86 FR 8097, Feb. 3, 2021]

§ 303.250 Modification of conditions.

(a) Scope. This section contains the procedures to be followed by an insured depository institution to seek the prior consent of the FDIC to modify the requirement of a prior approval of a filing issued by the FDIC.

(b) Where to file. Applicants should submit a letter application to the appropriate FDIC regional director.

(c) Content of filing. The application should contain the following information:

(1) A description of the original approved application;

(2) A description of the modification requested; and

(3) The reason for the request.

(d) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information at any time during processing of the filing.

(e) Processing. The FDIC will provide the applicant with a written notification of the final action as soon as the decision is rendered.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002. Redesignated at 71 FR 20526, Apr. 21, 2006]

§ 303.251 Extension of time.

(a) Scope. This section contains the procedures to be followed by an insured depository institution to seek the prior consent of the FDIC for additional time to fulfill a condition required in an approval of a filing issued by the FDIC or to consummate a transaction which was the subject of an approval by the FDIC.

(b) Where to file. Applicants shall submit a letter application to the appropriate FDIC office.

(c) Content of filing. The application shall contain the following information:

(1) A description of the original approved application;

(2) Identification of the original time limitation;

(3) The additional time period requested; and

(4) The reason for the request.

(d) Additional information. The FDIC may request additional information at any time during processing of the filing.

(e) Processing. The FDIC will provide the applicant with written notification of the final action as soon as the decision is rendered.

[67 FR 79247, Dec. 27, 2002. Redesignated at 71 FR 20526, Apr. 21, 2006]

§§ 303.252-303.259 [Reserved]