Citizens Financial Group (CFG) Bernstein 42nd Annual Strategic Decisions Conference summary

Economic and industry outlook

• The economy has shown notable resilience despite global challenges, with strong equity markets, stable unemployment, and robust deal activity across sectors.

• Companies and individuals have adapted well, maintaining strong performance and spending, supported by a healthy job market.

• M&A activity remains high, aided by a permissive regulatory environment and strong deal pipelines.

Consumer banking strategy

• Focus has shifted to targeting mass affluent and affluent households, leveraging products like HELOCs and advisory services.

• Branch network optimization is underway, with plans to transition away from in-store branches to enhance deposit gathering.

• New York City market expansion has driven rapid household and deposit growth, with further scaling planned.

• Emphasis on cross-selling wealth products and expanding small business services.

Lending and product innovation

• HELOCs remain a core growth product, with industry-leading origination speed and volume.

• Mortgage lending is steady, focused on deepening relationships with prime customers.

• New credit card offerings aim to increase customer engagement and card usage.