US moving to revive small and community banks: Bessent

IANS | February 5, 2026 11:19 AM

Washington, Feb 5 (IANS) The United States is moving to revive small and community banks, arguing that years of heavy regulation weakened local lending and slowed economic growth, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Congressmen.

US defends sanctions on Iran, Myanmar at Congress

IANS | February 5, 2026 11:15 AM

Washington, Feb 5 (IANS) The United States has defended its sanctions-led foreign policy toward Iran and Myanmar, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent telling lawmakers that economic pressure remains a central pillar of Washington’s national security and global financial stability strategy.

Democrats blast US SBA ban on green card owners

IANS | February 5, 2026 11:04 AM

Washington, Feb 5 (IANS) Top Democrats have criticised a new Small Business Administration policy that blocks businesses owned by legal permanent residents from getting SBA loans.