Americas

Iberiabank Corp. in Lafayette, La., has reported that fourth-quarter earnings fell 89% from a year earlier, to $13 million, largely due to the costs of consolidating two units and the purchase of a failed bank.

Tower Bancorp Inc. of Harrisburg, Pa., reported a surprising fourth-quarter loss Wednesday. It came from a spike in Tower's loan-loss provision, along with expenses tied to its December purchase of the struggling First Chester County Corp.

In taking a piecemeal approach to selling problem assets, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. seems to be pleasing only itself.

NewAlliance Bancshares Inc. in New Haven, Conn., reported a 25% increase in annual net income Tuesday. The $9 billion-asset company, which is set to be acquired by First Niagara Financial Group, earned $58 million in 2010, or 59 cents a share, compared with $46.4 million, or 47 cents a share, in 2009.

Bank of the Ozarks Inc. in Little Rock, Ark., reported a 75.5% jump in fourth-quarter earnings from a year earlier, to $16.9 million, including $4.6 million from its fourth failed-bank purchase.

First California Financial Group Inc. in Westlake Village has reported that its regulator lifted an informal agreement, clearing the way for it to pay dividends.

PrivateBancorp Inc. in Chicago reported its second straight profitable quarter as credit quality continued to show signs of stabilizing and it added commercial and industrial loans.

Northwest Bancshares Inc. in Warren, Pa., said Tuesday that it is closing its Florida operation. The $8.1 billion-asset company said its board had authorized the closing of its three Florida branches.

Signature Bank in New York said Tuesday that it had earned $30.3 million in the fourth quarter, up 44% from a year earlier.

Nara Bancorp Inc. in Los Angeles has reported earning $5 million in the fourth quarter, compared with a loss a year earlier.