Industrial Loan Co., or ILCs, are a small, but rapidly growing part of the financial industry. These institutions operate in 7 states & have nearly all of the same powers as commercial banks. However, ILCs differ greatly from banks in one characteristic -- ILCs may be owned & operated by firms engaged in commercial activities, thus skirting the prohibitions on mixing banking & commerce. This article examines the public policy issues that arise from mixing banking & commerce. It reviews the history of ILCs & the legal & supervisory frameworks under which they operate. Looks at the reemergence of ILCs under their new forms of ownerships & takes a close look at individual ILCs & the types of bus. they conduct. Also explores the public policy issues. Illus.