BANKING

House Panel Passes Reform Bill: A measure that would allow banks and securities firms to link up by breaking down Depression-era barriers sailed untouched through the House Commerce Committee. However, the chairman of the committee, Thomas Bliley (R-Va.), made it clear the bill was unacceptable in its current form and that he would offer amendments involving insurance, state regulation and rules governing the sale of securities. The bill is expected to reach the House floor after July 4, following consideration by the Rules Committee. Bliley also said some insurance-related issues need to be resolved.