This bill changes the rules for "merchant banking," which is when a bank buys a stake in a private company to help it grow instead of just giving it a loan. It would allow banks to keep these investments for at least 15 years.
Currently, banks are often required to sell these investments after a shorter period. By extending the limit to 15 years, the bill aims to provide businesses with more stable, long-term funding so they have more time to succeed before the bank has to pull its money out.
The new 15-year rule would apply to both future investments and ones the banks already own. For investments already in place, the 15-year clock would be counted from the date the bank first made the investment.
This policy mainly affects large bank holding companies and the private businesses they invest in. Supporters believe it will help the economy by encouraging long-term growth, while critics sometimes worry about banks having too much control over non-banking businesses.
Milestones
3 milestones6 actions
Nov 4, 2025House
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 320.
Nov 4, 2025House
Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Financial Services. H. Rept. 119-368.
Sep 16, 2025House
Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by the Yeas and Nays: 35 - 17.
Sep 16, 2025House
Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
Sep 10, 2025House
Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Merchant Banking Modernization Act
Bill NumberHR 5291
Congress119th Congress
ChamberHouse of Representatives
Latest ActionPlaced on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 320.
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