News Summary: Fatter capital proposed for banks

WASHINGTON

BIGGER RISK CUSHION FOR BANKS: The Federal Reserve wants U.S. banks to set aside more money to cushion against unexpected losses, a key step in preventing another financial crisis.

STRICTER RULES: The Fed governors voted 7-0 Thursday to propose rules requiring all U.S. banks to hold capital reserves that are worth at least 7 percent of their assets. That's up from a minimum of around 2 percent currently required and would bring it in line with international standards.

OPPOSITION FROM BANKS: The banks have lobbied vigorously against the proposals. They say setting aside so much money in reserve could limit what they could lend.