5 Hot Topics BofA CEO Brian Moynihan Is Watching

Bank of America’s leader outlines key priorities shaping the future of banking
At the American Bankers Association’s annual convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan shared insights on the pressing issues shaping U.S. banking today—from regulatory reform to cybersecurity and digital innovation. His comments reflect the challenges facing the financial sector as it navigates rapid technological change, new payment systems like stablecoins, and ongoing discussions about fair and lasting regulation.

1. Regulatory Permanence and Stability

Moynihan emphasized the importance of stable and lasting regulation in the U.S. financial system. He argued that the constant pendulum swings between tightening and loosening rules make it difficult for banks to plan long-term business strategies. To ensure a balanced approach, he called for new rules that “can’t be taken apart easily,” developed through a full rulemaking process rather than temporary policy statements.

According to Moynihan, consistent regulatory frameworks would give banks greater confidence to manage interest rates, credit, and loan portfolios effectively—especially amid economic volatility. The call for “regulatory permanence” aims to balance innovation with accountability and prevent future cycles of overcorrection in the banking system.

2. Supporting Customers Through Economic Disruptions

Bank of America has rolled out financial relief programs for customers affected by the government shutdown, offering payment deferrals, fee waivers, and checking account flexibility. Moynihan described these efforts as part of a broader “resilience playbook” the bank applies during crises—whether a natural disaster, financial stress, or government closure.

Such actions highlight how large institutions can leverage their scale to support customer well-being. For everyday consumers and small businesses, these temporary accommodations help maintain access to credit and deposits, reducing financial strain while preserving long-term trust in the banking system.

3. Stablecoins and the Future of Digital Payments

Discussing the Genius Act, which sets regulatory parameters for stablecoin issuers, Moynihan acknowledged that digital currencies could revolutionize cross-border payments and weekend transactions. However, he cautioned against letting unregulated entities manage customer funds without full banking charters.

He emphasized that banks must evolve to meet customer demand for digital banking solutions while safeguarding the deposit base from potential outflows toward higher-yield alternatives. Moynihan compared the challenge to the creation of Zelle, noting that industry collaboration can ensure secure, interoperable payment systems that benefit both consumers and institutions.

4. Modernizing Compliance and Cybersecurity

Moynihan also voiced support for modernizing the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and anti–money laundering (AML) reporting thresholds, which have remained unchanged for decades. Updating these limits, he said, would help banks focus on meaningful data rather than excessive paperwork.

In the same breath, he stressed the growing importance of cybersecurity and AI-driven risk management. Artificial intelligence is already helping banks write and review suspicious activity reports, but Moynihan warned that technology alone isn’t enough. He urged CEOs to prioritize resiliency—ensuring that systems can recover quickly in the event of cyberattacks or service disruptions.

Closing Insights

Moynihan’s five focus areas—regulatory stability, customer support, digital innovation, compliance modernization, and cybersecurity—capture the evolving landscape of U.S. banking. His message to the industry is clear: sustainable growth depends on balancing innovation with prudence.

As banks face rising competition from fintech firms and tighter oversight, long-term success will hinge on trust, adaptability, and strong digital infrastructure. The future of banking, as Moynihan suggests, lies in building systems that can withstand change—without losing sight of their customers.

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