An initiative promoting women in the banking industry took shape last week, with a 15-person committee coming together to guide the program.

House Majority Leader Mike Turzai is planning legislation that promises to increase efficiency and lower costs for businesses.

Private investments in freight railroads, which also means increased employment, continues to rise, according to the Association of American Railroads.

With $3.6 million from the Harrisburg Parking Authority in December and $1.5 million from Dauphin County a few weeks ago, Harrisburg University of Science & Technology has recently emerged from default on its $60 million bond.

Metro Bank of Swatara Township, Dauphin County, has launched the Metro Bank Business Valuator, an online tool that helps business owners and entrepreneurs to learn what their business could potentially be worth in real time.

While a large supermarket chain dropped heavily in the fourth quarter and for the year, one bank holding company saw earnings rise in 2013.

A retired executive with the state association for bankers will now serve on a state commission for the industry.

Business featured this week: Members 1st Federal Credit Union

Family-operated businesses face the usual business challenges, ranging from how to increase revenue and sales to rising expenses and taxation.

The midstate saw an 8 percent increase in the number of upside-down borrowers, or those in a position of negative equity, in the fourth quarter compared with the third, according to data from California-based CoreLogic.

Utilization dropped in every service statistic but one listed in Good Samaritan Health System's newly released 2013 community benefit report.