We analyze the impact of the Volcker Rule on a bank's earnings and default probability by using a stochastic control model where the bank maximizes its value by selecting an optimal dividend, recapitalization, and investment strategy. We calibrate the model to a sample of U.S. banks. Since the...

This review discusses the history of narrow banks, reform proposals involving narrow banks, and theory and empirical evidence regarding whether narrow banks should play a more prominent role in the financial system. Prior to the early-twentieth century, US banks tended to be much narrower than...