Key word is REDUCE! US bank did the same thing, probably not related to anything. Banks have to pay divies to keep investors on board, its one of the perks of investing in a financial stock. Tarp allows divies, it just doesn't allow capital expenditures that upset the capital ratio beyond what treasury sets.
No relation sorry Dr. Do believe settlement talks have be ongoing since after July omnibus, read my sticky. parties are close to a global settlement, probably have some serious sticking points that need to be ironed out. Omnibus will help on Sept 25th.