Improved Financial Performance
Net earnings for the quarter were $204 million, improving by $15 million due to higher revenues and lower expenses. Diluted earnings per share increased by 7% from the prior quarter and 21% from the year-ago period.
Net Interest Margin Expansion
Net interest margin expanded by 5 basis points in the quarter, and by 10 basis points compared to the year-ago quarter.
Record Capital Markets Performance
Capital Markets division had a record quarter, contributing to strong customer-related fee income.
Branch Acquisition
Agreement with First Bank to acquire 4 branches in Coachella Valley, adding $730 million in deposits and $420 million in loans, pending regulatory approval.
Low Level of Loan Losses
Net charge-offs were just 2 basis points annualized as a percentage of average loans for the quarter.