First Horizon (FHN) Bank of America Financial Services Conference 2026 summary

Strategic progress and growth outlook

• Successfully integrated IBERIABANK during the pandemic and refocused on organic growth after the TD merger agreement ended.

• Developed a concise execution plan from a larger strategy document to drive shareholder and customer value.

• Targeting growth in key Southeast MSAs, with branch expansion in the Carolinas, Texas, Tennessee, and Florida.

• Emphasizing a consumer-driven model with increased branch density and a focus on commercial middle-market banking and specialty businesses.

• Anticipates strong organic growth opportunities in the South over the next 10-15 years.

Loan growth, revenue, and business drivers

• Commercial lending showed strong performance in late 2024 and 2025, with robust pipelines into 2026.

• Loan growth expected in mid-single digits, led by commercial and industrial lending; commercial real estate lending to remain flat or slightly down.

• Bonus depreciation from recent legislation spurred equipment leasing activity in 2025.

• Revenue growth outlook of 3%-7% for the year, with higher loan growth and a rebound in countercyclical businesses needed to reach the upper end.

• Mortgage warehouse business capacity increased, gaining market share as peers exited; poised for growth if rates fall below 6%.

Margin, deposits, and capital management

• Net interest margin expected to peak in the current year, with modest compression due to funding lags and deposit pricing competition.

• Deposit environment in the Southeast is highly competitive, with ongoing efforts to grow core deposits through branch expansion and service differentiation.

• Exploring digital assets and stablecoin tools, with ongoing industry and regulatory discussions.

• Maintaining flat expenses through disciplined investment, technology upgrades, and cost savings reinvestment.

• Plans to open 10-20 branches annually, though real estate and construction delays persist.