10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2002

PNC FINANCIAL SERVICES GROUP, INC. Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2002

Filed August 14, 2002For Securities:PNC

Summary

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. reported solid financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2002, with net income of $637 million, or $2.23 per diluted share, representing a significant increase from $560 million, or $1.89 per diluted share, in the same period of 2001. This growth was partially attributed to the adoption of SFAS No. 142, which eliminated goodwill amortization. The company demonstrated strong returns on average common shareholders' equity (21.41%) and average assets (1.91%), indicating efficient use of shareholder capital and assets. Operationally, PNC continued to strengthen its balance sheet by increasing transaction deposits and improving regulatory capital ratios. The strategic repositioning of its institutional lending portfolio made progress, leading to a reduction in credit exposure and significant net gains from the liquidation of loans held for sale. Fee-based businesses like BlackRock and PFPC showed growth, contributing positively to overall performance despite a challenging economic environment. The company also addressed regulatory matters, reaching a resolution with the SEC and entering into agreements with the Federal Reserve and OCC, with no fines assessed. While overall performance was positive, investors should note the increase in nonperforming assets, particularly in the PNC Business Credit segment, and the provision for credit losses, which rose due to higher reserves in Corporate Banking and PNC Business Credit, notably related to the Market Street liquidity facilities and a draw on a liquidity facility. Management anticipates a challenging operating environment for the remainder of 2002.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net income increased by 13.75% to $637 million for the first six months of 2002 compared to $560 million in the prior year, with diluted earnings per share rising to $2.23 from $1.89.
  • 2Return on average common shareholders' equity improved to 21.41% for the first six months of 2002, up from 17.36% in the same period of 2001.
  • 3Total revenue grew by 7.9% to $2.78 billion for the first six months of 2002, driven by a substantial increase in noninterest income (12.5%).
  • 4The company successfully reduced its institutional loans held for sale by approximately 60% from December 31, 2001, generating $78 million in net gains.
  • 5Regulatory capital ratios remained strong, with Tier 1 risk-based capital at 8.2% and Leverage ratio at 7.4% as of June 30, 2002.
  • 6Nonperforming assets increased by 27.9% to $500 million at June 30, 2002, compared to $391 million at December 31, 2001, primarily due to issues in Corporate Banking and PNC Business Credit.
  • 7PNC reached a resolution with the SEC regarding certain asset transfers in 2001, with no fines or monetary penalties assessed.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary drivers for the increase in net income to $637 million for the first six months of 2002 were a robust performance in fee-based businesses like asset management and fund servicing, coupled with the strategic repositioning of the company's institutional lending portfolio which resulted in gains from the liquidation of loans held for sale. Additionally, the adoption of SFAS No. 142, which eliminated goodwill amortization, positively impacted reported earnings.

PNC has strengthened its balance sheet by increasing transaction deposits and improving regulatory capital ratios. The loans to deposits ratio decreased to 85% from 96% a year ago, indicating a less leveraged position. The reduction in institutional loans held for sale also decreased overall credit exposure. These changes suggest a more conservative risk profile and improved financial stability.

Investors should note the increase in nonperforming assets, which rose to $500 million at June 30, 2002, primarily driven by issues in the Corporate Banking and PNC Business Credit segments. The provision for credit losses also increased due to higher reserve allocations. The company's management acknowledges a challenging operating environment for the remainder of 2002, which could impact future revenue growth and asset quality.

PNC reached a resolution with the SEC concerning an inquiry into asset transfers to AIG companies in 2001. Importantly, no fines or monetary penalties were assessed against PNC as a result of this settlement. Additionally, the company entered into agreements with the Federal Reserve and the OCC, addressing operational and control matters, which are common outcomes following regulatory examinations and are aimed at strengthening governance and risk management.