Fifth Third Bancorp Stock Price, News & Analysis

Fifth Third Bancorp (FITB) reported a CET1 ratio approximately 84 basis points above its target, allowing for potential repurchases of up to $180 million in Q1 2021. The bank demonstrated solid credit quality, with stable net charge-offs (NCOs) and a drop in non-performing assets (NPAs), reflecting a better macroeconomic environment. Notably, it completed strategic divestitures generating $200 million in annual savings and expanded its healthcare advisory capabilities through an acquisition. 4Q20 results showed a 1% increase in net interest income (NII) and a 9% rise in noninterest income compared to the previous quarter.

Fifth Third (Nasdaq: FITB) has achieved carbon neutrality for its operations in 2020, including emissions from its facilities and business travel. This milestone was reached through direct carbon footprint reduction, renewable power purchases, and carbon offsets. The bank aims to maintain its commitment to environmental sustainability by aligning with its $8 billion sustainable finance goal and achieving notable reductions in water usage and greenhouse gas emissions. The claim of carbon neutrality is pending third-party verification.

Fifth Third Bank announces its support for small businesses by facilitating loans under the new Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), part of the latest stimulus package signed on December 27. The $284 billion program aims to assist eligible small businesses, with loan forgiveness possible for those expenses classified as forgivable, including payroll. In the previous year, Fifth Third supported 40,000 businesses with over $5.4 billion in PPP loans, preserving approximately 600,000 jobs. The bank will streamline the application process for both existing and new customers and will provide assistance for cashing Economic Impact Payments without fees.

Fifth Third Bancorp (Nasdaq: FITB) has completed the acquisition of Hammond Hanlon Camp LLC (H2C), a strategic advisory and investment banking firm focused on healthcare organizations. Founded in 2011, H2C specializes in mergers, acquisitions, capital markets, and real estate investment banking. This acquisition is a strategic move to strengthen Fifth Third's healthcare platform, building on its acquisition of Coker Capital in 2018. The transaction was effective as of December 31, 2020, with legal and financial advisors supporting both firms.

In 2020, eight private family foundations managed by The Foundation Office at Fifth Third Bank announced grants exceeding $6.6 million. These funds target key areas such as education, arts, community services, and health for low-to-moderate income families and businesses. Notable recipients include Bethany House Services, receiving $4.302 million for a family shelter, and American Legacy Theatre, awarded $140,000 for innovative theatre programs. The foundations accept grant inquiries annually from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31.

On December 17, 2020, Fifth Third Bank announced a partnership with Blend to enhance its mortgage process amid rising home purchase demand. This collaboration aims to provide a seamless online mortgage experience, addressing customer preferences for digital solutions, especially post-pandemic. The new application has been deployed in 11 states, resulting in higher customer satisfaction and reduced loan funding times. Blend's technology allows applicants to use familiar credentials, streamlining documentation and interaction with mortgage specialists.

Fifth Third Bancorp (Nasdaq: FITB) has declared cash dividends for its common and preferred shares. The common share dividend is $0.27 per share for Q4 2020, payable January 15, 2021, to shareholders of record as of December 31, 2020. Additionally, dividends were announced for several preferred shares, including Series H at $637.50, Series I at $414.06, Series J at $213.90, Series K at $309.375, Series L at $281.25, and Class B Series A at $15.00, all payable on December 31, 2020. Shareholders of record for preferred shares must be on the books by December 29, 2020.

Fifth Third Bank has launched the Greater Cincinnati COVID-19 Small Business Response and Recovery Initiative, aiming to support small businesses with fewer than 25 employees in Hamilton County. An initial investment of $700,000 from Fifth Third, along with $250,000 from Greater Cincinnati Foundation and $100,000 from JPMorgan Chase, will fund loan and grant programs. The initiative targets small businesses impacted by the pandemic, with technical assistance provided by partner organizations. This effort aims to mitigate the economic toll COVID-19 has had on minority and women-owned businesses.