CFPB Director Rohit Chopra’s semi-annual reports to Congress last week offered only a few snippets of policy news but featured much verbal sparring with Republicans.

Banking trade groups and consumer advocates had a second opportunity to share their opinions with the CFPB on “big tech” payment systems. Their take: The payments platforms pose a lot of consumer risk and need to be regulated.

The CFPB wants to track agency and court orders against nonbanks across all levels of government. One attorney said such a registry would add a substantial compliance burden, especially for smaller companies, and demonstrates a cynical view of financial institutions.

After the CFPB refused to exclude an interest-bearing crypto product from its investigation of Nexo Financial, the firm announced plans to leave the U.S.

The CFPB’s annual financial report showed an uptick in staffing and expenses but a significant increase in the civil money penalties collected. Victim compensation flagged a bit. (Includes data chart.)

The bureau intends access to the “government portal” to allow cities and counties to be more responsive to consumers. But it also expects the data sharing will enable it to “force-multiply” enforcement efforts.

Auto loans comprise approximately one-third of all non-mortgage debt. Yet most of the data on the market is aggregated, reducing the ability to spot competitive opportunities or potential risks.

LoanCare agrees to pay $4.5 million to settle a class-action suit centered on whether “convenience” fees for paying by phone or online are allowed in West Virginia. Meanwhile, the bureau is making servicers refund fees for paying by phone. 

Wells Fargo and the CFPB are reportedly negotiating over violations in several lines of business at the megabank. Separately, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) is continuing her effort to draw attention to fraudulent instant payments. 

Some of the traits of companies that score well in examiners’ reviews of compliance management systems: top executives that are actively involved in compliance, dynamic policies and procedures, and quick, thorough investigations into consumer gripes.