PNC Financial Services Group - PNC STOCK NEWS

Harris Williams has announced the sale of Corsearch, a brand risk and performance solutions provider, from Audax Private Equity to Astorg. The transaction showcases Harris Williams' expertise in the legal software and services sector, marking their fourth deal in this area since 2020. Corsearch's offerings support companies in managing and protecting their brand assets globally. Audax, a significant alternative investment manager, has raised over $27 billion since 1999, while Astorg manages over €10 billion in assets, focusing on growth strategies for market-leading companies.

PNC Financial Services Group reported strong Q1 2021 results, with net income rising to $1.826 billion, up 25% YoY. Key drivers included a $551 million provision recapture due to improved credit metrics and disciplined expense management, leading to 5% operating leverage. Average loans decreased by 3%, while average deposits grew 2%. The company's Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio stood at 12.6%. The pending $11.6 billion acquisition of BBVA USA is on track for mid-2021, expected to increase PNC's total assets by $102 billion.

PNC Financial Services Group has launched its innovative Low Cash Mode℠ to help customers avoid overdraft fees, addressing the estimated $17 billion in such charges paid by U.S. consumers annually. This feature, integrated into the Virtual Wallet® app, enhances transparency and control over transactions, enabling customers to prioritize debits. PNC anticipates helping customers save between $125 million and $150 million in overdraft fees yearly. The rollout is expected in mid-2021, with a pilot program showing a 60% reduction in overdraft fees among participants.

Harris Williams advised DSI Logistics, a top final-mile delivery service provider, on its acquisition by Pilot Freight Services. This sale, backed by Headhaul Capital Partners and Argosy Private Equity, highlights DSI's growth and strategic importance in the logistics sector, especially in e-commerce. Jason Bass of Harris Williams emphasized DSI’s success under previous ownership and potential for future growth with Pilot. The transaction reflects increasing investor interest in logistics firms adept at navigating the evolving supply chain landscape.

Harris Williams advised AIT Worldwide Logistics on its sale to The Jordan Company in a recapitalization valued at over $1.2 billion. AIT's leadership team will continue to manage the company and remain significant investors. AIT is recognized as a leading non-asset-based global freight forwarder, serving diverse industries worldwide. The transaction reflects strong investor interest in the third-party logistics sector. Harris Williams continues to play a crucial role in AIT's growth strategy, underlining the firm's expertise in logistics and supply chain solutions.

The PNC Financial Services Group has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.15 per share on common stock, payable on May 5, 2021, to shareholders of record by April 16, 2021. Additionally, the board announced dividends for preferred stocks: Series B: $0.45 (payable June 10, 2021), Series P: $1,531.25 (payable May 1, 2021), Series R: $2,425.00 (payable June 1, 2021), and Series S: $2,500.00 (payable May 1, 2021). PNC remains a leading diversified financial institution in the U.S.

Pathway Lending has secured a $5 million loan from PNC Bank to facilitate Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loans for small businesses in Tennessee. The nonprofit began accepting applications in January 2021, targeting 1099, self-employed, nonprofit, and small business borrowers, offering loans up to $150,000. PNC's investment aims to enhance support for local businesses, particularly those previously unable to access funding. The application deadline has been extended to May 31, 2021, allowing eligible businesses to apply for much-needed assistance.

PNC Bank has become the first financial institution to offer two products certified by the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE Fund): the Foundation Checking and PNC SmartAccess Prepaid Visa Card accounts. These products meet the Bank On National Account Standards aimed at providing safe and affordable banking access to approximately 36 million Americans outside the mainstream financial system. The Foundation Checking account features low-balance alerts, a money management course, and a waived monthly service charge for seniors. PNC continues its commitment to supporting low- and moderate-income communities.

Harris Williams has announced its advisory role for Learn on Demand Systems regarding an investment from Shamrock Capital. Learn on Demand Systems, known for its cloud-based virtual lab solutions, supports organizations in IT and cybersecurity training. The investment reflects ongoing activity in the education technology sector due to a growing skills gap. Quad Partners is also noted as a recent investor. Harris Williams, a subsidiary of PNC (NYSE: PNC), continues to facilitate significant transactions in the education technology market.