Editors' picks for the week include a Data Dispatch discussing the fourth-quarter 2016 results of the nation's four biggest banks, and a piece on bank investors' loan growth optimism.

For 'Big 4,' populist wave turns the tide

The boost from Brexit was quickly followed by a boost from the U.S. election, with President Donald Trump ushering in a period of regulatory pullback.

NCUA victory may force banks to beat competition rather than eliminate it

After the National Credit Union Administration won the most recent legal battle with banking advocates over new credit union regulations, some industry observers believe it might be time for the banks to rethink the war.

US banks fortuitously pared exposure to Mexico in recent years

U.S. bank exposure to Mexico continues to be dominated by Citigroup Inc., but exposure has declined in recent years, perhaps a fortunate development as President Donald Trump targets a key free trade agreement.

Increased optimism post-election, but loan demand not yet building

Bank investors hoping to see improving loan growth in the wake of the U.S. election might have to wait a little longer.

Prospect of fiscal spending brings balance sheet to forefront for Fed

Federal Reserve officials suggested last week that a shift in their monetary policy stance could also include the first steps to begin reducing the central bank's massive debt holdings.