First Ctzns Bancshares Inc N C - FCNCA STOCK NEWS

First Citizens Bank released its sixth annual Small Business Forecast, highlighting optimism among small business owners about the economy despite challenges from the pandemic. 66% of respondents remain optimistic about long-term economic prospects, similar to pre-pandemic levels. However, confidence in near-term conditions has declined to 57% from 66% in 2019. The report also notes that 67% of businesses were negatively impacted by COVID-19, but 69% are confident in growth for 2021, with 44% planning to hire more employees. The survey reflects varying confidence levels by state.

First Citizens Bank is encouraging donations to Teen Cancer America (TCA) this holiday season through December 31, 2020. TCA aims to improve cancer care for teens and young adults, who often lack specialized treatment facilities. The bank has already contributed over $3 million towards TCA's initiatives since 2015. Donations will help establish specialized programs and create supportive environments in hospitals across the Southeast. The program addresses a significant gap in oncology care for the 13-24 age group, enhancing their overall hospital experience.

First Citizens Bank has successfully completed the conversion of Gwinnett Community Bank in Duluth, GA, as of November 9, 2020. This transition aligns Gwinnett customer accounts with First Citizens products, enhancing access to a broader range of financial services. Three branches formerly under Gwinnett's name have been rebranded to First Citizens locations. Chairman and CEO Frank B. Holding Jr. expressed confidence in providing exceptional service to the new clients while reinforcing their commitment to growth in Georgia. First Citizens Bank is a leading family-controlled bank in the U.S., with approximately $48.67 billion in assets.

The Board of Directors of First Citizens BancShares declared a quarterly dividend of 47 cents per share on Class A and Class B common stock, payable on January 4, 2021. Shareholders of record will be those listed by December 14, 2020. Additionally, a quarterly dividend on the 5.375% non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock, Series A, was announced, set for payment on December 15, 2020, to holders of record as of November 30, 2020. As of September 30, 2020, BancShares reported total assets of $48.67 billion.

First Citizens BancShares reported strong financial results for Q3 2020, achieving a net income of $142.7 million, a 14.3% increase from Q3 2019. The net income per share rose to $14.03. Total net interest income reached $353.7 million, up 5.1%, while the net interest margin decreased to 3.06%. Total loans grew 18.3% to $32.85 billion, and deposits increased 30.3% to $42.25 billion. The bank completed a merger agreement with CIT Group, expected to finalize in H1 2021.

The merger between First Citizens BancShares and CIT Group creates the 19th largest bank in the U.S., with over $100 billion in assets and a target of +50% earnings per share accretion. The merger combines First Citizens' low-cost retail deposit franchise and CIT's national commercial lending expertise, enhancing growth and profitability. Shareholders can expect approximately 61% ownership for First Citizens and 39% for CIT. The merger aims for a strong capital position and improved customer service through technology investments, with closing anticipated in H1 2021.

First Citizens BancShares and CIT Group have announced a definitive all-stock merger of equals, creating the 19th largest bank in the U.S. This transformative partnership combines First Citizens' low-cost deposit franchise with CIT's national commercial lending expertise, enhancing stockholder value. CIT shareholders will receive 0.0620 shares of First Citizens common stock per CIT share. The merger is expected to deliver over 50% EPS accretion and 30% tangible book value accretion. The combined company will operate under the First Citizens name and be headquartered in Raleigh, N.C.

First Citizens BancShares will release its third quarter 2020 financial results after the U.S. markets close on Oct. 27, 2020. A conference call will follow on Oct. 28, 2020, at 9 a.m. ET to discuss the results. Interested parties can access the call by dialing 833-519-1268 (domestic) or 914-800-3840 (international), using conference ID 9790564. Participants can view the earnings presentation and news release on the company’s website.

First Citizens Bank has successfully completed the conversion of its Entegra Bank division's operations and systems as of August 17, 2020. This integration aligns Entegra customer accounts with First Citizens' offerings, allowing them access to a broader range of financial products and services. The rebranding is effective at 11 former Entegra branches across Western North Carolina, Upstate South Carolina, and North Georgia. With over 560 offices in 19 states, First Citizens aims to enhance relationships with Entegra customers while providing the expected high-level service.