Laura Alix

Fifth Third bought MB Financial in the quarter and benefited from increases in corporate banking revenues and a slight improvement in credit quality.

The Salt Lake City bank saw growth across all lending categories and an improvement in credit quality. It also said it has finished the second of three stages in its multiyear conversion to new core-banking technology.

The bank is investing more in its digital capabilities, according to The Cincinnati Enquirer.

The two banks, which plan to complete their merger by early fall, have little geographic overlap, so they can keep lending teams in place and push for immediate loan growth, according to Craig Dahl.

The Rhode Island bank’s deposit costs nearly doubled in the first quarter, but CEO Bruce Van Saun says it has to go on the offensive to sustain loan growth.

The Providence, R.I., bank reported increases in most fee-based lines and loan categories, and it continued to add deposits through its new digital franchise, Citizens Access.

CEO Andy Cecere acknowledges that other banks have tried to broaden customer relationships and selectively expand into new markets before and struggled. But the sophistication of today’s online and mobile services could make all the difference this time, he says.

Asked whether the BB&T-SunTrust deal had sparked a desire to pursue deals, Andy Cecere emphasized a focus on digital upgrades and opening branches in new markets.

The Minneapolis bank reported mid- to high-single-digit improvement in those categories, but total loan growth was curbed by declines in CRE and other credit types.

Bank of America's Brian Moynihan had a lot to brag about in discussing 1Q results but faced questions about what he would do if economic growth slows and rates hold steady for a prolonged period. Other bank chief executives have gotten, or will get, similar questions this earnings season.