Toronto Dominion Bank - TD STOCK NEWS

TD Bank has appointed Chris Ward as the new Regional President of the Mid-South Metro, overseeing operations in Delaware, Maryland, D.C., Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Based in Charlotte, Ward will lead over 4,000 employees and manage 135 stores across the region. With more than 30 years of experience in banking, Ward brings expertise in retail banking, commercial lending, and regional banking. His appointment aligns with TD Bank's strategy to capitalize on population growth in the Mid-South and expand market share, particularly following recent retail expansion in Charlotte. Ward's background includes roles at Bank of America, Citizens Financial Group, and BBVA Group, positioning him to enhance TD Bank's services for both consumers and businesses in the region.

TD Bank has announced enhancements to its TD Cash Secured Credit Card, aligning its rewards structure with the TD Cash Credit Card. Cardholders will now earn 3% Cash Back on a category of their choice, 2% on a second category, and 1% on all other eligible purchases. The card, which uses a security deposit to provide a credit line, helps customers build credit history while maximizing rewards. Categories include Dining, Entertainment, Gas Stations, Grocery Stores, and Travel, with the option to change categories quarterly. The card also offers Visa Signature Benefits like cell phone protection and emergency card replacement. Existing cardholders will be automatically upgraded to the new rewards structure.

TD Bank's 2024 Consumer Spending Index reveals significant shifts in American spending habits and financial priorities. 50% of respondents report their biggest spending increase was on groceries over the last year, while 30% are cutting back spending due to economic concerns. Despite these challenges, 85% of Americans remain confident in their ability to manage finances.

The survey highlights the popularity of rewards credit cards, with 83% of consumers owning one. However, debit cards remain a close second for day-to-day purchases. Interestingly, only 28% of respondents have used Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) options, with Millennials being the most frequent users.

The study also emphasizes the importance of financial education, with 70% of parents actively teaching their children about building credit. Despite the rise of digital banking tools, 56% of consumers still prefer phone support for customer service, indicating a desire for personalized assistance in financial matters.

TD Bank Group has launched the 2024 TD Ready Challenge, offering $10 million in grants for innovative solutions supporting underserved small business owners. The program aims to address systemic barriers faced by entrepreneurs, especially in industries still recovering post-pandemic. Ten grants of CDN/USD $1 million each are available to eligible charitable and non-profit organizations across TD's footprint in the U.S. and Canada.

The challenge focuses on overcoming obstacles such as insufficient funding, lack of business planning knowledge, and access to capital. It aligns with TD's broader initiatives, including the TD Ready Commitment and TD Pathways to Economic Inclusion. Applications are open until September 5, 2024, with details available at td.com/readychallenge.

TD Bank Group has launched the 2024 TD Ready Challenge, offering $10 million in grants to support underserved small business owners. The program invites charitable and non-profit organizations to submit proposals for innovative solutions that help entrepreneurs develop, launch, or grow their businesses. Ten grants of CDN $1 million or USD $1 million are available.

The challenge aims to address systemic barriers faced by underserved entrepreneurs, particularly in industries still recovering post-pandemic. It seeks to support strategies, technologies, or partnerships that can help overcome obstacles such as insufficient funding, lack of business planning knowledge, and access to capital. This initiative aligns with TD's global corporate citizenship platform and its commitment to improving economic inclusion.

TD Bank has been recognized as a 'Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion' for the 10th consecutive year, earning a top score of 100 on the 2024 Disability Equality Index®. This achievement reflects TD's long-standing commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Key highlights include:

• TD ranked No. 9 on Forbes' 2024 list of America's Best Employers for Diversity
• Recognized by Fair360 as a Top 50 Company for workplace fairness
• Hosts Project SEARCH, helping students with disabilities transition into the workplace
• Collaborates with Specialisterne to increase representation of neurodivergent individuals
• Launched the TD Accessibility Adapter, a free browser plug-in for personalized online experiences
• Raised over $12 million for Special Olympics since 2009

These initiatives underscore TD's dedication to fostering an inclusive environment for colleagues, customers, and communities.

TD Bank has launched a $20 billion Community Impact Plan aimed at empowering diverse and underserved communities through lending, philanthropy, and banking access over the next three years. Integral to this initiative is the creation of a Community Advisory Board consisting of leaders with vast experience in areas like community development, education, and financial services.

The board members include Seema Agnani, Dr. Tony Allen, Marla Bilonick, Anthony Carter, Brian Harris, Dr. Kimberlyn Leary, Dr. Tonya Matthews, Marc Morial, Michael T. Pugh, Marietta Rodriguez, and Jesse Van Tol. The board will convene on October 29 to provide actionable recommendations and ensure the plan meets local needs. According to TD Bank's CEO Leo Salom, this initiative underscores the bank's commitment to financial inclusion, sustainable growth, and social progress.

A recent TD Bank survey reveals that 67% of homeowners believe purchasing a home is still attainable, with 38% likely to buy within the next year, despite rising costs and interest rates. The 2024 Mortgage Service Index surveyed over 1,800 homeowners, showing optimism, particularly among Gen Z (84%) and Millennials (68%). However, rising costs are impacting personal finances, with 70% struggling to save or budget. Additionally, homeowners are increasingly planning renovations over moving, with 73% intending to renovate in the future. Interestingly, many are opting for lower down payments, especially Gen Z (80%) and Millennials (77%). Although homebuying stress is high, at 71%, education and professional advice are seen as key to navigating the process.

TD Bank has launched the Chosen First Name feature, allowing customers to use a preferred first name different from their legal name on online accounts and cards. This feature, available through TD's Odyssey platform, aims to create an inclusive banking experience, particularly for LGBTQ2+ individuals and diverse communities. Recognized as a leader in LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion, TD Bank continues to enhance its commitment to diversity and innovation. Customers can update their chosen first names at any TD store in the U.S., making their experience more personalized and respectful.