Central Banker - Summer 2000

TIP and PATAX Implementation Scheduled for October

Number of New Financial Holding Companies Growing Slowly

Getting Back To Business: Bank Adopts New Contingency Strategy

Retiring the Earnings Test--At Last

Fed Facts

Fed Facts

Business Credit Brochure Available

The Fed has reissued its brochure, A Guide to Business Credit for Women, Minorities and Small Businesses. In addition to information on the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the guide explains the application process for small- business loans and what steps an applicant may take if a loan is denied.

The first 100 copies are available at no cost. To order, submit a request to Publications Services, Mail Stop 127, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Washington, DC 20551. The brochure is also available on the Board's web site at www.federalreserve.gov/pubs/brochure.htm.

Computer Program Helps Consumers Learn about Vehicle Leasing

A new computer program designed to help consumers learn more about vehicle leasing is now available via the Board's web site. "Keys to Vehicle Leasing: A Consumer Resource" answers common questions about leases, including:

• How is leasing different from buying?
• What are the upfront, ongoing and end-of-lease costs?
• How do you compare lease offers and negotiate terms?

The program also offers information on the Consumer Leasing Act and Regulation M, and features a glossary, quiz and list of frequently asked questions.

To download the program, visit www.federalreserve.gov/pubs/leasing and select "Program to Download."