Warren Buffett might help rescue the banks again - but he'll probably make less money this time around

• Warren Buffett has spoken to the White House about investing in US regional banks, reports say.

• Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway provided critical funding to companies during the financial crisis.

• Berkshire made a fortune from those deals, but might have to agree less lucrative terms today.

Warren Buffett might come to the banks' aid once again — but he probably won't make as much money this time around.

The famed investor and Berkshire Hathaway CEO has reportedly spoken to senior White House officials about potentially investing in US regional lenders. He's also offered advice and guidance to the Biden administration on how to deal with the current turmoil in the banking sector, Bloomberg said.

Buffett may be gearing up for a similar role to the one he played during the financial crisis. He made vital investments in Goldman Sachs, General Electric, and other companies in late 2008, when fear froze credit markets. He also phoned Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson to suggest the government invest directly in banks instead of buying their assets — which it promptly did.

The billionaire's backing might help to quell fears of more bank failures, and shore up faith in the financial system. If Buffett shows he's willing to risk his money in regional lenders, that could give other investors the confidence to keep hold of bank stocks or buy them at bargain prices. It could also reassure depositors that their money is in safe hands.