Welcome to our dedicated page for Bank of Montreal news (Ticker: BMO), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Bank of Montreal stock.
The Bank of Montreal (BMO), a diversified financial-services provider based in North America, caters to a wide array of financial needs through its four primary business segments: Canadian personal and commercial banking, U.S. P&C banking, wealth management, and capital markets. Headquartered in Toronto, BMO primarily operates in Canada, with a substantial presence in the U.S.
At BMO, we are committed to helping people at every stage of their financial lives, adapting to evolving customer needs while maintaining a consistent dedication to exceptional service. Our team of over 46,000 employees ensures we deliver the best possible banking experience, whether through personal banking, commercial banking, or wealth management services.
In the fiscal year 2023, BMO reported strong financial results despite a challenging economic backdrop. This included a net income of $1,617 million for the fourth quarter, marking a testament to the bank's robust business diversification and strategic initiatives. Major accomplishments included the acquisition and integration of Bank of the West, significantly enhancing our scale and growth opportunities in the U.S.
Furthermore, BMO has demonstrated a commitment to digital innovation, with advanced digital capabilities recognized by J.D. Power for personal banking customer satisfaction. The bank has also expanded its portfolio by acquiring the AIR MILES Reward Program, further enriching our customer loyalty offerings.
As we look to 2024, BMO remains poised for future growth, focused on strategic investments and dynamic expense management to continue delivering consistent and differentiated performance. We aim to leverage our position as a leading financial services provider to foster a thriving economy, support a sustainable future, and promote an inclusive society.
For the most updated financial statements and management discussions, please visit our Investor Relations page.
Bank of Montreal (BMO) has successfully completed its acquisition of Radicle Group Inc., a Calgary-based leader in sustainability advisory services. Announced on July 20, 2022, this acquisition aims to strengthen BMO's position in the transition to a net-zero world. Radicle's expertise in emissions measurement will enhance BMO Capital Markets' Global Markets group. As of October 31, 2022, BMO reported total assets of $1.14 trillion and serves over 12 million customers across North America.
Bank of Montreal (BMO) declared a quarterly dividend of $1.43 per common share for Q1 2023, marking a 3% increase from the prior quarter and an 8% year-over-year rise. The common share dividend is payable on February 28, 2023, to shareholders on record as of January 30, 2023. Additionally, various dividends on preferred shares were announced, with payments scheduled for February 27, 2023. Shareholders can reinvest dividends through the Bank's Shareholder Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan, which offers a 2% discount on shares purchased through this plan.
BMO Financial Group reported a net income of $4,483 million for Q4 2022, a significant increase from $2,159 million year-over-year. The adjusted EPS was $3.04, slightly down from $3.33. For the fiscal year, net income reached $13,537 million, up from $7,754 million, with an adjusted EPS of $13.23. However, the provision for credit losses rose to $313 million compared to $20 million last year. Despite economic uncertainties, the CEO emphasized the bank's strong performance backed by effective risk management and targeted investments. A dividend of $1.43 per share was declared for Q1 2023, marking an 8% increase from the previous year.
BMO has announced a Community Benefits Plan (CBP) with a commitment of over $40 billion to support local communities, particularly in California where $16 billion is allocated. This five-year plan builds on the BMO EMpower initiative and focuses on increasing home ownership and aiding small businesses, especially in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods. Key components include $7.5 billion for home mortgage lending and $16.5 billion for small business support. The strategy emphasizes equity and aims to address barriers faced by minority communities.
BMO and FISPAN have collaborated to enhance BMO Online Banking for Business, providing clients streamlined access to banking within their ERP or accounting systems. This integration includes real-time account information, electronic payments, and automatic transaction reconciliation. BMO aims to support its commercial clients by leveraging Open Banking technologies, enhancing digital experiences, and fostering partnerships, including recent collaborations with Xero. With total assets of $1.07 trillion, BMO continues to evolve as a digitally enabled bank focused on security and innovation.
BMO Financial Group (TSX: BMO) announced on November 8, 2022, that BMO Harris Bank intends to appeal a jury verdict awarding approximately US$564 million in a lawsuit related to a Ponzi scheme involving Thomas J. Petters. The lawsuit claims that a predecessor bank facilitated this scheme from 1999 to 2008. BMO plans to record a provision of CAD$1,120 million, resulting in an after-tax charge of CAD$830 million in Q4 2022. BMO strongly denies the allegations and is pursuing all legal avenues to contest the verdict.
BMO Financial Group will release its fourth quarter and fiscal 2022 results on December 1, 2022, at about 6:00 a.m. ET. The results will be followed by an investor community conference call at 8:30 a.m. ET, accessible via telephone or online. Key details include telephone access at 1-800-898-3989 or 416-406-0743 (passcode 3582724#) and internet access through BMO's official site. A rebroadcast of the presentation will be available until December 31, 2022.
BMO Financial Group has announced an increase in its US$ prime lending rate from 6.25% to 7.00%, effective November 3, 2022. This adjustment reflects changes in market conditions and is part of BMO's strategy as one of North America's largest banks with total assets of $1.07 trillion as of July 31, 2022. BMO serves over 12 million customers through its diverse banking and financial services.
BMO Financial Group has announced it will purchase carbon credits from CarbonCure Technologies, committing to remove 5,750 metric tons of CO2 over five years. As the first North American bank to buy these credits, BMO aims to enhance its carbon neutrality strategy that dates back to 2010. The initiative is part of BMO's Climate Ambition to achieve net-zero goals by 2050, expanding its offset portfolio to include advanced carbon mineralization technologies. The carbon credits will be delivered annually from 2022 to 2026.