10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2005

PNC FINANCIAL SERVICES GROUP, INC. Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2005

Filed November 7, 2005For Securities:PNC

Summary

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. reported strong third-quarter and year-to-date results for 2005, demonstrating significant growth and strategic progress. Total revenue for the nine months ending September 30, 2005, increased to $4.63 billion from $4.14 billion in the prior year, driven by a notable rise in noninterest income, which benefited from higher asset management fees, particularly due to BlackRock's acquisition of SSRM Holdings. Net income also saw a substantial increase, reaching $970 million for the nine-month period, up from $890 million in the same period of 2004, with diluted earnings per share rising to $3.35 from $3.13. Strategically, PNC's "One PNC" initiative is on track to achieve its goals of improved efficiency and customer focus, with cost savings initiatives underway and expected revenue growth targets being pursued. The acquisition of Riggs National Corporation in May 2005 has provided a significant entry into the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, contributing to loan and deposit growth. Additionally, the acquisition of Harris Williams & Co. in October 2005 is expected to be immediately accretive to earnings, further enhancing advisory services and business growth opportunities. Asset quality remained robust, with a decline in nonperforming assets and strong capital ratios, positioning PNC for continued growth and shareholder value enhancement.

Key Highlights

  • 1Total revenue increased to $4.63 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2005, up from $4.14 billion in the prior year.
  • 2Net income grew to $970 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2005, compared to $890 million in the same period of 2004.
  • 3Diluted earnings per share increased to $3.35 for the nine months ended September 30, 2005, up from $3.13 in the prior year.
  • 4Successful acquisition of Riggs National Corporation in May 2005, strengthening presence in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area and contributing to balance sheet growth.
  • 5Acquisition of Harris Williams & Co. in October 2005, expected to be immediately accretive and expand advisory services.
  • 6The 'One PNC' initiative is progressing, aiming for significant cost savings and revenue growth, with approximately 1,800 positions eliminated as of September 30, 2005.
  • 7Asset quality remained strong, with nonperforming loans as a percentage of total loans decreasing to 0.25% at September 30, 2005, from 0.35% at September 30, 2004.

Frequently Asked Questions

PNC's revenue growth was primarily driven by a significant increase in noninterest income, which rose 33% compared to the third quarter of 2004. This was largely due to higher asset management fees, increased banking fees, improved trading revenues, and stronger equity management revenue. Additionally, taxable-equivalent net interest income increased by 14% due to higher earning assets and improved yields.

The acquisition of Riggs National Corporation in May 2005 contributed to loan and deposit growth and expanded PNC's presence in the affluent Washington D.C. metropolitan area. BlackRock's acquisition of SSRM Holdings Inc. in January 2005 significantly boosted asset management fees. The acquisition of Harris Williams & Co. in October 2005 is expected to be immediately accretive to earnings and enhance M&A advisory services.

The 'One PNC' initiative, launched in January 2005, is progressing well. PNC expects to realize $400 million in total pretax earnings benefit by 2007 through cost savings and revenue enhancements. Approximately 1,800 positions out of a planned 3,000 have been eliminated, with related charges recognized. The initiative aims for approximately $300 million in cost savings and at least $100 million in net revenue growth, with a net financial benefit expected to be realized starting in the fourth quarter of 2005.

PNC's asset quality remained strong. The ratio of nonperforming loans to total loans decreased to 0.25% at September 30, 2005, from 0.35% at September 30, 2004. Similarly, the ratio of nonperforming assets to total assets declined. The provision for credit losses decreased for the first nine months of 2005, partly due to a significant loan recovery and continued improvement in asset quality.