Following is a compilation of ideas expressed by CEB members on this issue.

1. Increased competitiveness
   Banks have developed more sophisticated and aggressive marketing plans, employing many of the traditional marketing techniques used by other industries. With this  change, comes a change in their focus. They now spend the bulk of their effort on the more desirable clients, rather than wasting their efforts on the less desirable companies.  In addition, more European banks have entered the U.S. market.
   
   

2. More documentation
   The length of loan agreements has significantly increased because banks are requesting more information.  In other words, where they used to request quarterly reporting, now they ask for monthly accountings.  With these changes, banks are becoming more stringent and less flexible in their terms.
   
   

3. Lower interest rates
   The majority of chief executives report paying lower interest rates, but they also felt that the banks’ margins are increasing.
   
   

4. Less willingness to take risks
   As banks become increasingly aware of risks, they are less willing to go outside the established norms.
   
   

5. More formality
   As consolidation, centralization and high personnel turnover become the norm, personal banking relationships are taking a hit, becoming much more formal.
   
   

6. More services
   In order to remain competitive and hold on to their customer base, banks are offering more non-traditional services, such as travel and leasing services.
   
   

7. Better service
   Although banking relationships have become more formal, they have also become better.  In addition to offering more services, banks are also offering faster and higher-quality services.
   
   

8. More government influence
   As government regulations and regulators gain more control over banks, banks are developing a broader concern for environmental issues and compliance with the myriad of non-economic priorities of the government.