On either side of the Atlantic, of course, the regulator's zeal can suddenly increase after an unforeseen event.

ECONOMIST: America, Europe and the management of danger: A hazardous comparison | The

Consumer advocates and some industry analysts contend that the agency long courted big banks to choose the OCC as their regulator by offering a lax approach to supervision and taking the side of banks in striking down state consumer-protection laws.

WSJ: Comptroller Got Rude Introduction to Job