Even as consumer and CRE lending slowed in the first quarter, business lending — particularly to middle-market companies — surged. But some banks are already warning that the growth could taper off as competition from nonbanks heats up.

Investors seem to be betting that a long-rumored sale of the Dallas company is on hold now that it has named a new CEO, but analysts say it remains an attractive takeover target for a larger regional bank.

The Minneapolis bank will open about 10 branches in North Carolina's largest city by the end of next year, adding to already intensifying competition among big banks.

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.

The company will shutter the offices it inherited when it bought EverBank in 2017 and focus on lending to existing customers through digital channels. U.S. Bank will assume the leases on about 25 properties.

The new asset-based securities lending unit, based in Charlotte, N.C., will provide warehouse lines of credits to nonbank consumer and commercial lenders.

For thousands of government employees, credit card bills are coming due for travel and other expenses they incurred before the shutdown.

The nation’s fifth-largest bank now has the financial flexibility to consolidate more branches in existing markets and open new, smaller ones in cities where it has no retail presence, CEO Andy Cecere said.