Hacker News new | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit login

Because banks deal in finance, which is an arena rife for fraudulent activities. For example, in the us, personal savings accounts with large transactions (deposits or withdrawals over $10,000) get flagged under the 1970 Bank Secrecy Act[0] as a way to curb money laundering and related events.

You're correct; a bank isn't your parent. And, you can choose where to put your money for safekeeping. As can businesses.

But, as mentioned before, finance draws in scammers and con artists (sometimes those aren't even the bankers!) and extra measures are taken to ensure that nefarious activities are mitigated. This includes actually knowing about a business and the ownership (or authorized representative) who want to bank with an institution since corporations can easily keep beneficiaries well hidden.

Further, as businesses grow they may need more capital and other financial instruments (eg - stocks), all of which present a risk to the lender if the business isn't well understood, which could lead to unfavorable rates or declination for the business. The business can shop around, of course, but the result might just be the same and then what?

I don't really know where I'm going with this comment, but I guess the point is that Chase, et al, have regulations to follow and some of them suck.

I'm also not out to necessarily defend Chase, but as a checking account holder i haven't had anything but a great experience. And, there's no one I'd rather have on my side than the douchebags at Chase when I need to cancel or retract some financial transactions.

Cheers!

[0] https://www.fincen.gov/resources/statutes-and-regulations/ba...




Consider applying for YC's Spring batch! Applications are open till Feb 11.

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: