The Roundup: Is a Rate Cut Coming, Complaints to CFPB Soar, FTC Upgrades Investigations Database, “Compliance -First” AI

Welcome to the PerformLine Regulatory Compliance Roundup, home of the latest news, articles, and reports from our industry, curated for you. Let’s get into it.
In this edition: The Fed keeps rate unchanged but a cut could be coming, Complaints to the CFPB have skyrocketed in 2025, the FTC upgrades its investigations data processing, the European Union’s new AI Act , and “Compliance-First” AI.
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Fed Keeps Rate Unchanged, But Signals a Cut in September
The Federal Reserve has signaled the possibility of a September interest-rate cut but remains noncommittal, emphasizing a cautious, data-driven approach. While two Fed governors dissented in favor of an immediate cut, Chair Jerome Powell highlighted ongoing inflation concerns and a resilient labor market as reasons for holding steady. Market expectations have adjusted accordingly, with the probability of a September rate cut now below 50%, reflecting uncertainty about the Fed’s next move.
Consumer Complaints to CFPB Rise Sharply in 2025
Consumer Complaints continue to pour in to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, despite staffing cuts and defunding initiatives. Complaints categorized for domestic money transfers have skyrocketed.
Significant Stat: 3x
The amount consumer complaints related to misleading marketing and advertising have grown since 2021, with an average increase of 48% year over year. Read more
FTC to Upgrade Data Processing Analysis Capabilities Used in Investigations
The Federal Trade Commission received a $14.6 million Technology Modernization Fund (TMF) grant that will enable the agency to enhance its in-house data processing capabilities and improve the way it analyzes data used in its investigations.
Not Just for Big Tech: SMBs Must Heed EU AI Law, Too
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) developing or using artificial intelligence (AI) systems must comply with the European Union’s AI Act, even if they are not based in or have a presence in the bloc.
Experts say that due to the Act’s scope, many U.S.-based SMBs could be affected and should take steps now to evaluate their exposure. This includes using AI to generate content that is accessed by EU citizens. A key deadline is Aug. 2, which marks the start of the enforcement of general-purpose AI governance rules.
A “Compliance-First” Approach to AI
With AI dominating conversations, many vendors are rushing to offer “AI-first” compliance solutions. But real-world compliance isn’t one-size-fits-all – and it isn’t built overnight. Every organization operates under unique regulatory obligations, risk tolerances, and operational structures. That’s why a compliance-first approach to AI is so important.