Bernanke says lending spigots are more open now Associated Press Copyright 2012 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Updated 07:56 a.m., Thursday, May 10, 2012 In the financial crisis in the fall of 2008, much of the lending among financial institutions in this so-called wholesale funding market froze, spreading panic and helping push the economy into its deepest recession since the Great Depression. In response to criticism that heightened scrutiny by regulators has made it difficult for banks to lend, Bernanke said the Fed has stressed to supervisors on its staff to take a "balanced approach" in overseeing banks. Buying long-term bonds helps push their prices up and their yields down. Since many loans are tied to Treasurys, lower yields can mean lower interest rates for consumers and businesses.