State Banking

MA Division of Banks Finalizes Amendments to 209 CMR 50.00

The Massachusetts Division of Banks has finalized amendments to 209 CMR 50.00, concerning parity with federal credit unions. These amendments will become effective on December 19, 2025. The changes aim to align state regulations with federal credit union regulations.

Juma Financial Services Check Casher Permission in Marlborough

The Massachusetts Division of Banks is opening a public comment period for Juma Financial Services, LLC to operate as a check casher in Marlborough. The comment period runs from October 17, 2025, to October 31, 2025.

MA Board of Bank Incorporation Hearing: Mutual Bancorp Merger with Bluestone Bank

The Massachusetts Division of Banks will hold a virtual hearing on February 19, 2026, regarding Mutual Bancorp's petition to acquire Bluestone Bank. The Board of Bank Incorporation will consider the impact on competition and public convenience. Interested parties can submit written comments by February 27, 2026.

Brazil Starr Check Casher License Application - Public Comment

The Massachusetts Division of Banks is opening a public comment period for Brazil Starr, Inc.'s petition to operate as a check casher in Somerville. The comment period runs from December 15, 2025, to December 29, 2025.

Check Casher License Application Public Comment Period

The Massachusetts Division of Banks is opening a public comment period for Financial Services Company, Inc. d/b/a The Check Exchange's petition to operate as a check casher in Framingham. The comment period runs from December 12, 2025, to December 26, 2025.

Investor Fraud Prevention: 12 Top Threats Identified by NASAA

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) and the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA) have identified 12 top investor threats for 2026, including AI-driven scams and digital asset fraud. State securities regulators reported over 8,800 investigations and $259 million in fines in 2024.

Washington DFI Warns of AI Investment Scams

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) is warning investors about a rise in AI-powered investment scams, including those using chatbots and deepfakes. The notice urges investors to exercise caution and outlines steps to verify investment professionals and identify fraudulent schemes.

Romance Scams Warning: Dating Or Defrauding Campaign

The Washington Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) is issuing a warning about romance scams as part of the national 'Dating Or Defrauding' campaign. The campaign aims to raise awareness of these scams, which cost consumers billions annually, and provides resources to help prevent victimization.

Washington DFI Joins Consumer Protection Week to Combat Fraud

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) is participating in National Consumer Protection Week, urging residents to be cautious of fraud. The notice highlights common fraud tactics and provides resources to help consumers avoid scams, referencing over $300 million lost to fraud in Washington in 2024.

Maryland Emergency Regulation for Virtual Currency Kiosks

Maryland has issued an emergency regulation establishing registration requirements for virtual currency kiosk operators and kiosks. The regulation, effective December 5, 2025, outlines definitions, registration procedures, fraud prevention, and operational requirements.