FORM 10-K
Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, DC 20549

FORM 10-K

 

þ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010

OR

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                      to                     

Commission File Number 000-50831

REGIONS FINANCIAL CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware   63-0589368

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

1900 Fifth Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203

(Address of principal executive offices)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (205) 326-5807

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class

   Name of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock, $.01 par value

   New York Stock Exchange

8.875% Trust Preferred Securities of Regions Financing Trust III

   New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  þ    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes  ¨    No  þ

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  þ    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  þ    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

  Large accelerated filer  þ   Accelerated filer  ¨  
  Non-accelerated filer  ¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)   Smaller reporting company  ¨  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes  ¨    No  þ

State the aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold, or the average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter.

Common Stock, $.01 par value—$8,081,116,041 as of June 30, 2010.

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

Common Stock, $.01 par value—1,257,753,611 shares issued and outstanding as of February 15, 2011

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the proxy statement for the Annual Meeting to be held on May 19, 2011 are incorporated by reference into Part III.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

REGIONS FINANCIAL CORPORATION

Form 10-K

INDEX

 

          PAGE  

PART I

  

Forward-Looking Statements

     1   

Item 1.

  

Business

     2   

Item 1A.

  

Risk Factors

     20   

Item 1B.

  

Unresolved Staff Comments

     36   

Item 2.

  

Properties

     36   

Item 3.

  

Legal Proceedings

     37   

Item 4.

  

(Removed and Reserved)

     37   

PART II

  

Item 5.

   Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities      38   

Item 6.

  

Selected Financial Data

     40   

Item 7.

  

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

     41   

Item 7A.

  

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

     41   

Item 8.

  

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

     114   

Item 9.

  

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

     196   

Item 9A.

  

Controls and Procedures

     196   

Item 9B.

  

Other Information

     196   

PART III

  

Item 10.

  

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

     197   

Item 11.

  

Executive Compensation

     199   

Item 12.

   Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters      199   

Item 13.

  

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

     200   

Item 14.

  

Principal Accounting Fees and Services

     200   

PART IV

  

Item 15.

  

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

     201   

SIGNATURES

     208   

 

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PART I

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report on Form 10-K, other periodic reports filed by Regions Financial Corporation (“Regions”) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and any other written or oral statements made by or on behalf of Regions may include forward-looking statements. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”) provides a safe harbor for forward-looking statements which are identified as such and are accompanied by the identification of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. For these statements, we, together with our subsidiaries, unless the context implies otherwise, claim the protection afforded by the safe harbor in the Act. Forward-looking statements are not based on historical information, but rather are related to future operations, strategies, financial results or other developments. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s expectations as well as certain assumptions and estimates made by, and information available to, management at the time the statements are made. Those statements are based on general assumptions and are subject to various risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the views, beliefs and projections expressed in such statements. These risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but are not limited to, those described below:

 

   

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act became law on July 21, 2010, and a number of legislative, regulatory and tax proposals remain pending. Additionally, the U.S. Treasury and federal banking regulators continue to implement, but are also beginning to wind down, a number of programs to address capital and liquidity in the banking system. Proposed rules, including those that are part of the Basel III process, could require banking institutions to increase levels of capital. All of the foregoing may have significant effects on Regions and the financial services industry, the exact nature and extent of which cannot be determined at this time.

 

   

The impact of compensation and other restrictions imposed under the Troubled Asset Relief Program (“TARP”) until Regions repays the outstanding preferred stock and warrant issued under the TARP, including restrictions on Regions’ ability to attract and retain talented executives and associates.

 

   

Possible additional loan losses, impairment of goodwill and other intangibles, and adjustment of valuation allowances on deferred tax assets and the impact on earnings and capital.

 

   

Possible changes in interest rates may increase funding costs and reduce earning asset yields, thus reducing margins. Increases in benchmark interest rates would also increase debt service requirements for customers whose terms include a variable interest rate, which may negatively impact the ability of borrowers to pay as contractually obligated.

 

   

Possible changes in general economic and business conditions in the United States in general and in the communities Regions serves in particular, including any prolonging or worsening of the current unfavorable economic conditions, including unemployment levels.

 

   

Possible changes in the creditworthiness of customers and the possible impairment of the collectability of loans.

 

   

Possible changes in trade, monetary and fiscal policies, laws and regulations, and other activities of governments, agencies, and similar organizations, may have an adverse effect on business.

 

   

The current stresses in the financial and real estate markets, including possible continued deterioration in property values.

 

   

Regions’ ability to manage fluctuations in the value of assets and liabilities and off-balance sheet exposure so as to maintain sufficient capital and liquidity to support Regions’ business.

 

   

Regions’ ability to expand into new markets and to maintain profit margins in the face of competitive pressures.

 

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Regions’ ability to develop competitive new products and services in a timely manner and the acceptance of such products and services by Regions’ customers and potential customers.

 

   

Regions’ ability to keep pace with technological changes.

 

   

Regions’ ability to effectively manage credit risk, interest rate risk, market risk, operational risk, legal risk, liquidity risk, and regulatory and compliance risk.

 

   

Regions’ ability to ensure adequate capitalization which is impacted by inherent uncertainties in forecasting credit losses.

 

   

The cost and other effects of material contingencies, including litigation contingencies, and any adverse judicial, administrative, or arbitral rulings or proceedings.

 

   

The effects of increased competition from both banks and non-banks.

 

   

The effects of geopolitical instability and risks such as terrorist attacks.

 

   

Possible changes in consumer and business spending and saving habits could affect Regions’ ability to increase assets and to attract deposits.

 

   

The effects of weather and natural disasters such as floods, droughts and hurricanes, and the effects of man-made disasters such as the Gulf of Mexico oil spill.

 

   

Possible downgrades in ratings issued by rating agencies.

 

   

Potential dilution of holders of shares of Regions’ common stock resulting from the U.S. Treasury’s investment in TARP.

 

   

Possible changes in the speed of loan prepayments by Regions’ customers and loan origination or sales volumes.

 

   

Possible acceleration of prepayments on mortgage-backed securities due to low interest rates, and the related acceleration of premium amortization on those securities.

 

   

The effects of problems encountered by larger or similar financial institutions that adversely affect Regions or the banking industry generally.

 

   

Regions’ ability to receive dividends from its subsidiaries.

 

   

The effects of the failure of any component of Regions’ business infrastructure which is provided by a third party.

 

   

Changes in accounting policies or procedures as may be required by the Financial Accounting Standards Board or other regulatory agencies.

 

   

The effects of any damage to Regions’ reputation resulting from developments related to any of the items identified above.

The words “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project” and similar expressions often signify forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. We assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements that are made from time to time.

See also Item 1A. “Risk Factors” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

Item 1. Business

Regions Financial Corporation (together with its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis, “Regions” or “Company”) is a financial holding company headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, which operates throughout the South, Midwest and Texas. Regions provides traditional commercial, retail and mortgage banking services, as well as other financial services in the fields of investment banking, asset management, trust, mutual funds,

 

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securities brokerage, insurance and other specialty financing. At December 31, 2010, Regions had total consolidated assets of approximately $132.4 billion, total consolidated deposits of approximately $94.6 billion and total consolidated stockholders’ equity of approximately $16.7 billion.

Regions is a Delaware corporation and on July 1, 2004, became the successor by merger to Union Planters Corporation and the former Regions Financial Corporation. Its principal executive offices are located at 1900 Fifth Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203, and its telephone number at that address is (205) 326-5807.

Banking Operations

Regions conducts its banking operations through Regions Bank, an Alabama chartered commercial bank that is a member of the Federal Reserve System. At December 31, 2010, Regions operated approximately 2,100 ATMs and 1,772 banking offices in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.

The following chart reflects the distribution of branch locations in each of the states in which Regions conducts its banking operations.

 

     Branches  

Alabama

     244   

Arkansas

     100   

Florida

     397   

Georgia

     142   

Illinois

     68   

Indiana

     64   

Iowa

     13   

Kentucky

     16   

Louisiana

     118   

Mississippi

     147   

Missouri

     67   

North Carolina

     9   

South Carolina

     36   

Tennessee

     263   

Texas

     85   

Virginia

     3   
        

Total

     1,772   
        

Other Financial Services Operations

In addition to its banking operations, Regions provides additional financial services through the following subsidiaries:

Morgan Keegan & Company, Inc. (“Morgan Keegan”), a subsidiary of Regions Financial Corporation, is a full-service regional brokerage and investment banking firm. Morgan Keegan offers products and services including securities brokerage, asset management, financial planning, mutual funds, securities underwriting, sales and trading, and investment banking. Morgan Keegan also manages the delivery of trust services, which are provided pursuant to the trust powers of Regions Bank. Morgan Keegan employs approximately 1,200 financial advisors offering products and services from over 321 offices located in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.

Regions Insurance Group, Inc., a subsidiary of Regions Financial Corporation, is an insurance broker that offers insurance products through its subsidiaries Regions Insurance, Inc., headquartered in Birmingham,

 

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Alabama, and Regions Insurance Services, Inc., headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. Through its insurance brokerage operations in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Tennessee and Texas, Regions Insurance, Inc. offers insurance coverage for various lines of personal and commercial insurance, such as property, casualty, life, health and accident insurance. Regions Insurance Services, Inc. offers credit-related insurance products, such as title, term life, credit life, environmental, crop and mortgage insurance, as well as debt cancellation products to customers of Regions. With $108 million in annual revenues and offices in eight states, Regions Insurance Group, Inc. is one of the largest insurance brokers in the United States.

Regions has several subsidiaries and affiliates which are agents or reinsurers of credit life insurance products relating to the activities of certain affiliates of Regions. Regions Investment Services, Inc., which sells annuities and life insurance products to Regions Bank customers, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Regions Bank. In order to consolidate insurance related activities and the offering and distribution of insurance products, operationally Regions Investment Services, Inc. joined Regions Insurance Group, Inc. in 2010.

Regions Equipment Finance Corporation, a subsidiary of Regions Bank, provides domestic and international equipment financing products, focusing on commercial clients.

Acquisition Program

A substantial portion of the growth of Regions from its inception as a bank holding company in 1971 has been through the acquisition of other financial institutions, including commercial banks and thrift institutions, and the assets and deposits of those financial institutions. As part of its ongoing strategic plan, Regions periodically evaluates business combination opportunities. Any future business combination or series of business combinations that Regions might undertake may be material, in terms of assets acquired or liabilities assumed, to Regions’ financial condition. Historically, business combinations in the financial services industry have typically involved the payment of a premium over book and market values. This practice could result in dilution of book value and net income per share for the acquirer.

Segment Information

Reference is made to Note 22 “Business Segment Information” to the consolidated financial statements included under Item 8. of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for information required by this item.

Supervision and Regulation

Regions and its subsidiaries are subject to the extensive regulatory framework applicable to bank holding companies and their subsidiaries. Regulation of financial institutions such as Regions and its subsidiaries is intended primarily for the protection of depositors, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s (“FDIC”) Deposit Insurance Fund (the “DIF”) and the banking system as a whole, and generally is not intended for the protection of stockholders or other investors. Described below are the material elements of selected laws and regulations applicable to Regions and its subsidiaries. The descriptions are not intended to be complete and are qualified in their entirety by reference to the full text of the statutes and regulations described. Changes in applicable law or regulation, and in their interpretation and application by regulatory agencies and other governmental authorities, cannot be predicted, but they may have a material effect on the business and results of Regions and its subsidiaries.

Overview

Regions is registered with the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve”) as a bank holding company and has elected to be treated as a financial holding company under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (“BHC Act”). As such, Regions and its subsidiaries are subject to the supervision, examination and reporting requirements of the BHC Act and the regulations of the Federal Reserve.

 

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Generally, the BHC Act provides for “umbrella” regulation of financial holding companies by the Federal Reserve and functional regulation of holding company subsidiaries by applicable regulatory agencies. The BHC Act, however, requires the Federal Reserve to examine any subsidiary of a bank holding company, other than a depository institution, engaged in activities permissible for a depository institution. The Federal Reserve is also granted the authority, in certain circumstances, to require reports of, examine and adopt rules applicable to any holding company subsidiary.

In general, the BHC Act limits the activities permissible for bank holding companies. Bank holding companies electing to be treated as financial holding companies, however, may engage in additional activities under the BHC Act as described below under “—Permissible Activities under the BHC Act.” For a bank holding company to be eligible to elect financial holding company status, all of its subsidiary insured depository institutions must be well-capitalized and well-managed as described below under “—Regulatory Remedies Under the FDIA” and must have received at least a satisfactory rating on such institution’s most recent examination under the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 (the “CRA”). Beginning in July 2011, a bank holding company’s eligibility to elect financial holding company status will also depend upon the holding company being well-capitalized and well-managed. If a financial holding company fails to continue to meet any of the prerequisites for financial holding company status after engaging in activities not permissible for bank holding companies that have not elected to be treated as financial holding companies, the company must enter into an agreement with the Federal Reserve to comply with all applicable capital and management requirements. If the company does not return to compliance within 180 days, the Federal Reserve may order the company to divest its subsidiary banks or the company may discontinue or divest investments in companies engaged in activities permissible only for a bank holding company electing to be treated as a financial holding company.

Regions Bank is a member of the FDIC, and, as such, its deposits are insured by the FDIC to the extent provided by law. Regions Bank is an Alabama state-chartered bank and a member of the Federal Reserve System. It is generally subject to supervision and examination by both the Federal Reserve and the Alabama Department of Banking. The Federal Reserve and the Alabama Department of Banking regularly examine the operations of Regions Bank and are given authority to approve or disapprove mergers, acquisitions, consolidations, the establishment of branches and similar corporate actions. The federal and state banking regulators also have the power to prevent the continuance or development of unsafe or unsound banking practices or other violations of law. Regions Bank is subject to numerous statutes and regulations that affect its business activities and operations, including various consumer protection laws and regulations. Additionally, commercial banks are affected significantly by the actions of the Federal Reserve as it attempts to control money and credit availability in order to influence the economy.

Many of Regions’ non-bank subsidiaries, such as Morgan Keegan, are also subject to regulation by various federal and state agencies. As a registered investment adviser and broker-dealer, Morgan Keegan and its subsidiaries are subject to regulation and examination by the Securities and Exchange Commissioner (“SEC”). Morgan Keegan and its subsidiaries are also subject to regulation and examination by state securities regulators as well as the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”), the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) and other self-regulatory organizations (“SROs”). All of these regulations may affect Morgan Keegan’s manner of operation and profitability.

Recent Developments

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”), which was enacted in July 2010, significantly restructures the financial regulatory regime in the United States, including through the creation of a new resolution authority, mandating higher capital and liquidity requirements, requiring banks to pay increased fees to regulatory agencies, and through numerous other provisions aimed at strengthening the sound operation of the financial services sector. The Dodd-Frank Act also creates a new systemic risk oversight body, the Financial Stability Oversight Council (“FSOC”). The FSOC will oversee and coordinate the efforts of the primary U.S. financial regulatory agencies (including the Federal Reserve, the FDIC

 

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and the SEC) in establishing regulations to address systemic financial stability concerns. The Dodd-Frank Act directs the FSOC to make recommendations to the Federal Reserve Board regarding supervisory requirements and prudential standards applicable to systemically important financial institutions (which we expect will include Regions), including capital, leverage, liquidity and risk-management requirements. The Dodd-Frank Act mandates that the requirements applicable to systemically important financial institutions be more stringent than those applicable to other financial companies.

In addition to the framework for systemic risk oversight implemented through the FSOC, the Dodd-Frank Act imposes heightened prudential requirements on bank holding companies with at least $50 billion in total consolidated assets, such as Regions, and requires the Federal Reserve to establish prudential standards for such large bank holding companies that are more stringent than those applicable to other bank holding companies, including standards for risk-based capital requirements and leverage limits, liquidity, risk-management requirements, resolution plan and credit exposure reporting, and concentration. The Federal Reserve has discretionary authority to establish additional prudential standards, on its own or at the FSOC’s recommendation, regarding contingent capital, enhanced public disclosures, short-term debt limits, and otherwise as it deems appropriate. The Dodd-Frank Act also requires the Federal Reserve to conduct annual analyses of such bank holding companies to evaluate whether the companies have sufficient capital on a total consolidated basis necessary to absorb losses as a result of adverse economic conditions.

Title X of the Dodd-Frank Act provides for the creation of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (the “CFPB”), a new consumer financial services regulator. The CFPB is directed to prevent unfair, deceptive and abusive practices and ensure that all consumers have access to markets for consumer financial products and services, and that such markets are fair, transparent and competitive. The Dodd-Frank Act gives the CFPB authority to enforce and issue rules and regulations implementing existing consumer protection laws and responsibility for all such existing regulations. Depository institutions with assets exceeding $10 billion, such as Regions Bank, their affiliates, and other “larger participants” in the markets for consumer financial services (as determined by the CFPB) will be subject to direct supervision by the CFPB, including any applicable examination, enforcement and reporting requirements the CFPB may establish.

New laws or regulations or changes to existing laws and regulations (including changes in interpretation or enforcement) could materially adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations. As discussed further throughout this section, many aspects of the Dodd-Frank Act are subject to further rulemaking and will take effect over several years, making it difficult to anticipate the overall financial impact on Regions and its subsidiaries or the financial services industry generally. In addition to the discussion in this section, see “Risk Factors—Recent legislation regarding the financial services industry may have a significant adverse effect on our operations” for a discussion of the potential impact legislative and regulatory reforms may have on our results of operations and financial condition.

Permissible Activities under the BHC Act

In general, the BHC Act limits the activities permissible for bank holding companies to the business of banking, managing or controlling banks and such other activities as the Federal Reserve has determined to be so closely related to banking as to be properly incident thereto. A bank holding company electing to be treated as a financial holding company may also engage in a range of activities which are (i) financial in nature or incidental to such financial activity or (ii) complementary to a financial activity and which do not pose a substantial risk to the safety and soundness of a depository institution or to the financial system generally. These activities include securities dealing, underwriting and market making, insurance underwriting and agency activities, merchant banking and insurance company portfolio investments.

The BHC Act does not place territorial limitations on permissible non-banking activities of bank holding companies. The Federal Reserve has the power to order any bank holding company or its subsidiaries to terminate any activity or to terminate its ownership or control of any subsidiary when the Federal Reserve has

 

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reasonable grounds to believe that continuation of such activity or such ownership or control constitutes a serious risk to the financial soundness, safety or stability of any bank subsidiary of the bank holding company.

Capital Requirements

Regions and Regions Bank are required to comply with the applicable capital adequacy standards established by the Federal Reserve. There are two basic measures of capital adequacy for bank holding companies that have been promulgated by the Federal Reserve: a risk-based measure and a leverage measure.

Risk-based Capital Standards.    The risk-based capital standards are designed to make regulatory capital requirements more sensitive to differences in credit and market risk profiles among banks and financial holding companies, to account for off-balance sheet exposure, and to minimize disincentives for holding liquid assets. Assets and off-balance sheet items are assigned to broad risk categories, each with appropriate weights. The resulting capital ratios represent capital as a percentage of total risk-weighted assets and off-balance sheet items.

The minimum guideline for the ratio of total capital (“Total capital”) to risk-weighted assets (including certain off-balance sheet items, such as standby letters of credit) is 8.0 percent. At least half of the Total capital must be “Tier 1 capital,” which currently consists of qualifying common equity, qualifying noncumulative perpetual preferred stock (including related surplus), senior perpetual preferred stock issued to the U.S. Department of the Treasury (the “U.S. Treasury”) as part of the Troubled Asset Relief Program Capital Purchase Program (the “CPP”), minority interests relating to qualifying common or noncumulative perpetual preferred stock issued by a consolidated U.S. depository institution or foreign bank subsidiary, and certain “restricted core capital elements,” as discussed below, less goodwill and certain other intangible assets. Currently, “Tier 2 capital” may consist of, among other things, qualifying subordinated debt, mandatorily convertible debt securities, preferred stock and trust preferred securities not included in the definition of Tier 1 capital, and a limited amount of the allowance for loan losses. Non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock, trust preferred securities and other so-called “restricted core capital elements” are currently limited to 25 percent of Tier 1 capital. Pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Act, trust preferred securities will be phased-out of the definition of Tier 1 capital of bank holding companies having consolidated assets exceeding $500 million, such as Regions, over a three-year period beginning in January 2013.

The minimum guideline to be considered well-capitalized for Tier 1 capital and Total capital is 6.0 percent and 10.0 percent, respectively. At December 31, 2010, Regions’ consolidated Tier 1 capital ratio was 12.40 percent and its Total capital ratio was 16.35 percent. The elements currently comprising Tier 1 capital and Tier 2 capital and the minimum Tier 1 capital and Total capital ratios may be subject to change in the future, as discussed in greater detail below.

Basel I and II Standards.    Regions currently calculates its risk-based capital ratios under guidelines adopted by the Federal Reserve based on the 1988 Capital Accord (“Basel I”) of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (the “Basel Committee”). In 2004, the Basel Committee published a new set of risk-based capital standards (“Basel II”) in order to update Basel I. Basel II provides two approaches for setting capital standards for credit risk—an internal ratings-based approach tailored to individual institutions’ circumstances and a standardized approach that bases risk-weighting on external credit assessments to a much greater extent than permitted in the existing risk-based capital guidelines. Basel II also would set capital requirements for operational risk and refine the existing capital requirements for market risk exposures. A definitive final rule for implementing the advanced approaches of Basel II in the United States, which applies only to internationally active banking organizations, or “core banks” (defined as those with consolidated total assets of $250 billion or more or consolidated on-balance sheet foreign exposures of $10 billion or more) became effective on April 1, 2008. Other U.S. banking organizations may elect to adopt the requirements of this rule (if they meet applicable qualification requirements), but are not required to comply. The rule also allows a banking organization’s primary federal supervisor to determine that application of the rule would not be appropriate in light of the bank’s asset size, level of complexity, risk profile or scope of operations. Regions Bank is currently not required to comply with Basel II.

 

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In July 2008, the U.S. bank regulatory agencies issued a proposed rule that would provide banking organizations that do not use the advanced approaches with the option to implement a new risk-based capital framework. This framework would adopt the standardized approach of Basel II for credit risk, the basic indicator approach of Basel II for operational risk, and related disclosure requirements. While this proposed rule generally parallels the relevant approaches under Basel II, it diverges where United States markets have unique characteristics and risk profiles, most notably with respect to risk weighting residential mortgage exposures. Comments on the proposed rule were due to the agencies by October 27, 2008, but a definitive final rule has not been issued as of February 2011.

Leverage Requirements.    Neither Basel I nor Basel II includes a leverage requirement as an international standard; however, the Federal Reserve has established minimum leverage ratio guidelines for bank holding companies to be considered well-capitalized. These guidelines provide for a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to average total assets, less goodwill and certain other intangible assets (the “Leverage ratio”), of 3.0 percent for bank holding companies that meet certain specified criteria, including having the highest regulatory rating. All other bank holding companies generally are required to maintain a Leverage ratio of at least 4 percent. Regions’ Leverage ratio at December 31, 2010 was 9.30 percent.

The guidelines also provide that bank holding companies experiencing internal growth or making acquisitions will be expected to maintain strong capital positions substantially above the minimum supervisory levels without significant reliance on intangible assets. Furthermore, the Federal Reserve has indicated that it will consider a “tangible Tier 1 capital leverage ratio” (deducting all intangibles) and other indicators of capital strength in evaluating proposals for expansion or new activities.

Basel III Standards.    In December 2010, the Basel Committee released its final framework for strengthening international capital and liquidity regulation, now officially identified by the Basel Committee as “Basel III.” Basel III, when implemented by the U.S. bank regulatory agencies and fully phased-in, will require bank holding companies and their bank subsidiaries to maintain substantially more capital, with a greater emphasis on common equity. The Basel III final capital framework, among other things:

 

   

introduces as a new capital measure “Common Equity Tier 1”, or “CET1”, specifies that Tier 1 capital consists of CET1 and “Additional Tier 1 capital” instruments meeting specified requirements, defines CET1 narrowly by requiring that most adjustments to regulatory capital measures be made to CET1 and not to the other components of capital, and expands the scope of the adjustments as compared to existing regulations;

 

   

when fully phased in on January 1, 2019, requires banks to maintain:

 

   

as a newly adopted international standard, a minimum ratio of CET1 to risk-weighted assets of at least 4.5 percent, plus a 2.5 percent “capital conservation buffer” (which is added to the 4.5 percent CET1 ratio as that buffer is phased in, effectively resulting in a minimum ratio of CET1 to risk-weighted assets of at least 7 percent);

 

   

a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 6.0 percent, plus the capital conservation buffer (which is added to the 6.0 percent Tier 1 capital ratio as that buffer is phased in, effectively resulting in a minimum Tier 1 capital ratio of 8.5 percent upon full implementation);

 

   

a minimum ratio of Total (that is, Tier 1 plus Tier 2) capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 8.0 percent, plus the capital conservation buffer (which is added to the 8.0 percent total capital ratio as that buffer is phased in, effectively resulting in a minimum total capital ratio of 10.5 percent upon full implementation);

 

   

as a newly adopted international standard, a minimum leverage ratio of 3.0 percent, calculated as the ratio of Tier 1 capital to balance sheet exposures plus certain off-balance sheet exposures (as the average for each quarter of the month-end ratios for the quarter); and

 

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provides for a “countercyclical capital buffer”, generally to be imposed when national regulators determine that excess aggregate credit growth becomes associated with a buildup of systemic risk, that would be a CET1 add-on to the capital conservation buffer in the range of 0 percent to 2.5 percent when fully implemented (potentially resulting in total buffers of between 2.5 percent and 5 percent).

The capital conservation buffer is designed to absorb losses during periods of economic stress. Banking institutions with a ratio of CET1 to risk-weighted assets above the minimum but below the conservation buffer (or below the combined capital conservation buffer and countercyclical capital buffer, when the latter is applied) will face constraints on dividends, equity repurchases and compensation based on the amount of the shortfall.

The implementation of the Basel III final framework will commence January 1, 2013. On that date, banking institutions will be required to meet the following minimum capital ratios:

 

   

3.5 percent CET1 to risk-weighted assets;

 

   

4.5 percent Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets; and

 

   

8.0 percent Total capital to risk-weighted assets.

The Basel III final framework provides for a number of new deductions from and adjustments to CET1. These include, for example, the requirement that mortgage servicing rights, deferred tax assets and significant investments in non-consolidated financial entities be deducted from CET1 to the extent that any one such category exceeds 10 percent of CET1 or all such categories in the aggregate exceed 15 percent of CET1.

Implementation of the deductions and other adjustments to CET1 will begin on January 1, 2014 and will be phased-in over a five-year period (20 percent per year). The implementation of the capital conservation buffer will begin on January 1, 2016 at 0.625 percent and be phased in over a four-year period (increasing by that amount on each subsequent January 1, until it reaches 2.5 percent on January 1, 2019).

The U.S. banking agencies have indicated informally that they expect to propose regulations implementing Basel III in mid-2011 with final adoption of implementing regulations in mid-2012. Notwithstanding its release of the Basel III framework as a final framework, the Basel Committee is considering further amendments to Basel III, including the imposition of additional capital surcharges on globally systemically important financial institutions. In addition to Basel III, the Dodd-Frank Act requires or permits the Federal banking agencies to adopt regulations affecting banking institutions’ capital requirements in a number of respects, including potentially more stringent capital requirements for systemically important financial institutions. Accordingly, the regulations ultimately applicable to us may be substantially different from the Basel III final framework as published in December 2010.

The Dodd-Frank Act appears to require the Federal Reserve to adopt regulations imposing a continuing “floor” of the Basel I-based capital requirements in cases where the Basel II-based capital requirements and any changes in capital regulations resulting from Basel III otherwise would permit lower requirements. In December 2010, the Federal Reserve published for comment proposed regulations implementing this requirement.

Liquidity Requirements.    Historically, regulation and monitoring of bank and bank holding company liquidity has been addressed as a supervisory matter, both in the U.S. and internationally, without required formulaic measures. The Basel III final framework requires banks and bank holding companies to measure their liquidity against specific liquidity tests that, although similar in some respects to liquidity measures historically applied by banks and regulators for management and supervisory purposes, going forward will be required by regulation. One test, referred to as the liquidity coverage ratio (“LCR”), is designed to ensure that the banking entity maintains an adequate level of unencumbered high-quality liquid assets equal to the entity’s expected net cash outflow for a 30-day time horizon (or, if greater, 25 percent of its expected total cash outflow) under an acute liquidity stress scenario. The other, referred to as the net stable funding ratio (“NSFR”), is designed to promote more medium- and long-term funding of the assets and activities of banking entities over a one-year time horizon. These requirements will incent banking entities to increase their holdings of U.S. Treasury

 

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securities and other sovereign debt as a component of assets and increase the use of long-term debt as a funding source. The LCR would be implemented subject to an observation period beginning in 2011, but would not be introduced as a requirement until January 1, 2015, and the NSFR would not be introduced as a requirement until January 1, 2018. These new standards are subject to further rulemaking and their terms may well change before implementation.

Capital Requirements of Regions Bank.    Regions Bank is subject to substantially similar capital requirements as those applicable to Regions. As of December 31, 2010, Regions Bank was in compliance with applicable minimum capital requirements. Neither Regions nor Regions Bank has been advised by any federal banking agency of any specific minimum capital ratio requirement applicable to it as of December 31, 2010. Failure to meet capital guidelines could subject a bank to a variety of enforcement remedies, including the termination of deposit insurance by the FDIC, and to certain restrictions on its business. See “—Regulatory Remedies under the FDIA” below.

Given that the Basel III rules are subject to change and the scope and content of capital regulations that U.S. federal banking agencies may adopt under the Dodd-Frank Act is uncertain, we cannot be certain of the impact new capital regulations will have on our capital ratios.

Safety and Soundness Standards

Guidelines adopted by the federal bank regulatory agencies pursuant to the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, as amended (the “FDIA”), establish general standards relating to internal controls and information systems, internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate exposure, asset growth and compensation, fees and benefits. In general, these guidelines require, among other things, appropriate systems and practices to identify and manage the risk and exposures specified in the guidelines. Additionally, the agencies adopted regulations that authorize, but do not require, an agency to order an institution that has been given notice by an agency that it is not satisfying any of such safety and soundness standards to submit a compliance plan. If, after being so notified, an institution fails to submit an acceptable compliance plan or fails in any material respect to implement an acceptable compliance plan, the agency must issue an order directing action to correct the deficiency and may issue an order directing other actions of the types to which an undercapitalized institution is subject under the “prompt corrective action” provisions of the FDIA. See “—Regulatory Remedies under the FDIA” below. If an institution fails to comply with such an order, the agency may seek to enforce such order in judicial proceedings and to impose civil money penalties.

Regulatory Remedies under the FDIA

The FDIA establishes a system of regulatory remedies to resolve the problems of undercapitalized institutions. The federal banking regulators have established five capital categories (“well-capitalized,” “adequately capitalized,” “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized” and “critically undercapitalized”) and must take certain mandatory supervisory actions, and are authorized to take other discretionary actions, with respect to institutions which are undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized or critically undercapitalized. The severity of these mandatory and discretion supervisory actions depend upon the capital category in which the institution is placed. Generally, subject to a narrow exception, the FDIA requires the banking regulator to appoint a receiver or conservator for an institution that is critically undercapitalized. The federal bank regulatory agencies have specified by regulation the relevant capital levels for each category:

 

“Well-Capitalized”

  

“Adequately Capitalized”

Leverage ratio of 5 percent,

Tier 1 capital ratio of 6 percent,

Total capital ratio of 10 percent, and

Not subject to a written agreement, order, capital directive or regulatory remedy directive requiring a specific capital level.

  

Leverage ratio of 4 percent,

Tier 1 capital ratio of 4 percent, and

Total capital ratio of 8 percent.

 

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“Undercapitalized”

  

“Significantly Undercapitalized”

Leverage ratio less than 4 percent,

Tier 1 capital ratio less than 4 percent, or

Total capital ratio less than 8 percent.

  

Leverage ratio less than 3 percent,

Tier 1 capital ratio less than 3 percent, or

Total capital ratio less than 6 percent.

“Critically undercapitalized”

    
Tangible equity to total assets less than 2 percent.   

For purposes of these regulations, the term “tangible equity” includes core capital elements counted as Tier 1 capital for purposes of the risk-based capital standards plus the amount of outstanding cumulative perpetual preferred stock (including related surplus), minus all intangible assets with certain exceptions. An institution that is classified as well-capitalized based on its capital levels may be classified as adequately capitalized, and an institution that is adequately capitalized or undercapitalized based upon its capital levels may be treated as though it were undercapitalized or significantly undercapitalized, respectively, if the appropriate federal banking agency, after notice and opportunity for hearing, determines that an unsafe or unsound condition or an unsafe or unsound practice warrants such treatment.

An institution that is categorized as undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized or critically undercapitalized is required to submit an acceptable capital restoration plan to its appropriate federal banking regulator. Under the FDIA, in order for the capital restoration plan to be accepted by the appropriate federal banking agency, a bank holding company must guarantee that a subsidiary depository institution will comply with its capital restoration plan, subject to certain limitations. The bank holding company must also provide appropriate assurances of performance. The obligation of a controlling bank holding company under the FDIA to fund a capital restoration plan is limited to the lesser of 5.0 percent of an undercapitalized subsidiary’s assets or the amount required to meet regulatory capital requirements. An undercapitalized institution is also generally prohibited from increasing its average total assets, making acquisitions, establishing any branches or engaging in any new line of business, except in accordance with an accepted capital restoration plan or with the approval of the FDIC. Institutions that are significantly undercapitalized or undercapitalized and either fail to submit an acceptable capital restoration plan or fail to implement an approved capital restoration plan may be subject to a number of requirements and restrictions, including orders to sell sufficient voting stock to become adequately capitalized, requirements to reduce total assets and cessation of receipt of deposits from correspondent banks. Critically undercapitalized depository institutions failing to submit or implement an acceptable capital restoration plan are subject to appointment of a receiver or conservator.

Payment of Dividends

Regions is a legal entity separate and distinct from its banking and other subsidiaries. The principal source of cash flow to Regions, including cash flow to pay dividends to its stockholders and principal and interest on any of its outstanding debt, is dividends from Regions Bank. There are statutory and regulatory limitations on the payment of dividends by Regions Bank to Regions, as well as by Regions to its stockholders.

If, in the opinion of a federal bank regulatory agency, an institution under its jurisdiction is engaged in or is about to engage in an unsafe or unsound practice (which, depending on the financial condition of the institution, could include the payment of dividends), such agency may require, after notice and hearing, that such institution cease and desist from such practice. The federal bank regulatory agencies have indicated that paying dividends that deplete an institution’s capital base to an inadequate level would be an unsafe and unsound banking practice. Under the FDIA, an insured institution may not pay any dividend if payment would cause it to become undercapitalized or if it already is undercapitalized. See “—Regulatory Remedies under the FDIA” above. Moreover, the Federal Reserve and the FDIC have issued policy statements stating that bank holding companies and insured banks should generally pay dividends only out of current operating earnings.

 

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Payment of Dividends by Regions Bank.    Under the Federal Reserve’s Regulation H, Regions Bank may not, without the approval of the Federal Reserve, declare or pay a dividend to Regions if the total of all dividends declared in a calendar year exceeds the total of (a) Regions Bank’s net income for that year and (b) its retained net income for the preceding two calendar years, less any required transfers to additional paid-in capital or to a fund for the retirement of preferred stock. As a result of Regions Bank’s $975 million loss in 2009 and $252 million loss in 2010, Regions Bank cannot, without approval from the Federal Reserve, declare or pay a dividend to Regions until such time as Regions Bank is able to satisfy the criteria discussed in the preceding sentence. Given the losses in 2009 and 2010, Regions Bank may not be able to pay dividends to Regions in the near term without obtaining regulatory approval.

Under Alabama law, Regions Bank may not pay a dividend in excess of 90 percent of its net earnings until the bank’s surplus is equal to at least 20 percent of capital. Regions Bank is also required by Alabama law to obtain approval of the Alabama Superintendent of Banking prior to the payment of dividends if the total of all dividends declared by Regions Bank in any calendar year will exceed the total of (a) Regions Bank’s net earnings (as defined by statute) for that year, plus (b) its retained net earnings for the preceding two years, less any required transfers to surplus. Also, no dividends may be paid from Regions Bank’s surplus without the prior written approval of the Alabama Superintendent of Banking.

Payment of Dividends by Regions.    The ability of Regions to pay dividends to its stockholders is not totally dependent on the receipt of dividends from Regions Bank, as Regions has other cash available to make dividend payments. As of December 31, 2010, Regions had $6.9 billion of cash and cash equivalents on a consolidated basis, of which $3.8 billion is attributable to the parent company. These funds are available for corporate purposes, including debt service and to pay dividends to its stockholders. This is compared to an anticipated common dividend requirement, assuming current dividend payment levels, of approximately $50 million and preferred cash dividends of approximately $175 million for the full year 2011. Expected long-term borrowings maturities in 2011 are approximately $6.0 billion, of which approximately $1.0 billion is attributable to the parent company.

Although Regions currently has capacity to make common dividend payments in 2011, the payment of dividends by Regions and the dividend rate are subject to management review and approval by Regions’ Board of Directors on a quarterly basis. Regions’ dividend payments are also subject to the oversight of the Federal Reserve. Under temporary guidance issued by the Federal Reserve in November 2010, the dividend policy of large bank holding companies, such as Regions, is reviewed by the Federal Reserve based on capital plans and stress tests as submitted by the bank holding company, and will be assessed against, among other things, the bank holding company’s ability to achieve the Basel III capital ratio requirements referred to above as they are phased in by U.S. regulators and any potential impact of the Dodd-Frank Act on the company’s risk profile, business strategy, corporate structure or capital adequacy. The Federal Reserve’s current guidance provides that, for large bank holding companies like Regions, dividend payout ratios exceeding 30 percent of after-tax net income will receive particularly close scrutiny.

Prior to November 14, 2011, unless Regions has redeemed all of the Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A (“Series A Preferred Stock”), issued to the U.S. Treasury on November 14, 2008 or unless the U.S. Treasury has transferred all the preferred securities to a third party, the consent of the U.S. Treasury will be required for Regions to declare or pay any dividend or make any distribution on common stock other than (i) regular quarterly cash dividends of not more than $0.10 per share, as adjusted for any stock split, stock dividend, reverse stock split, reclassification or similar transaction, (ii) dividends payable solely in shares of common stock and (iii) dividends or distributions of rights or junior stock in connection with a stockholders’ rights plan. Regions has reduced its quarterly dividend to $0.01 per share and does not expect to increase its quarterly dividend above such level for the foreseeable future.

 

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Support of Subsidiary Banks

Under longstanding Federal Reserve policy which has been codified by the Dodd-Frank Act, Regions is expected to act as a source of financial strength to, and to commit resources to support, its subsidiary bank. This support may be required at times when Regions may not be inclined to provide it. In addition, any capital loans by a bank holding company to its subsidiary bank are subordinate in right of payment to deposits and to certain other indebtedness of such subsidiary bank. In the event of a bank holding company’s bankruptcy, any commitment by the bank holding company to a federal bank regulatory agency to maintain the capital of a subsidiary bank will be assumed by the bankruptcy trustee and entitled to a priority of payment.

Cross-Guarantee Provisions

Each insured depository institution “controlled” (as defined in the BHC Act) by the same bank holding company can be held liable to the FDIC for any loss incurred, or reasonably expected to be incurred, by the FDIC due to the default of any other insured depository institution controlled by that holding company and for any assistance provided by the FDIC to any of those banks that is in danger of default. Such a cross-guarantee claim against a depository institution is generally superior in right of payment to claims of the holding company and its affiliates against that depository institution. At this time, Regions Bank is the only insured depository institution controlled by Regions for this purpose. If in the future, however, Regions were to control other insured depository institutions, such cross-guarantee claims would apply to all such insured depository institutions.

Transactions with Affiliates

There are various legal restrictions on the extent to which Regions and its non-bank subsidiaries may borrow or otherwise obtain funding from Regions Bank. In general, Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act and Federal Reserve Regulation W require that any “covered transaction” by Regions Bank (or its subsidiaries) with an affiliate must be secured by designated amounts of specified collateral and must be limited to (a) in the case of any single such affiliate, the aggregate amount of covered transactions of Regions Bank and its subsidiaries may not exceed 10 percent of the capital stock and surplus of Regions Bank, and (b) in the case of all affiliates, the aggregate amount of covered transactions of Regions Bank and its subsidiaries may not exceed 20 percent of the capital stock and surplus of Regions Bank. The Dodd-Frank Act significantly expands the coverage and scope of the limitations on affiliate transactions within a banking organization. For example, commencing in July 2011, the Dodd-Frank Act will require that the 10 percent of capital limit on covered transactions begin to apply to financial subsidiaries. “Covered transactions” are defined by statute to include, among other things, a loan or extension of credit, as well as a purchase of securities issued by an affiliate, a purchase of assets (unless otherwise exempted by the Federal Reserve) from the affiliate, the acceptance of securities issued by the affiliate as collateral for a loan, and the issuance of a guarantee, acceptance or letter of credit on behalf of an affiliate. All covered transactions, including certain additional transactions (such as transactions with a third party in which an affiliate has a financial interest), must be conducted on market terms.

FDIC Insurance Assessments

Deposit Insurance Assessments.    Regions Bank pays deposit insurance premiums to the FDIC based on an assessment rate established by the FDIC. FDIC assessment rates generally depend upon a combination of regulatory ratings and financial ratios. Regulatory ratings reflect the applicable bank regulatory agency’s evaluation of the financial institution’s capital, asset quality, management, earnings, liquidity and sensitivity to risk (“CAMELS”). The assessment rate for large institutions with long-term debt issuer ratings, such as Regions, is currently determined using a combination of the institution’s weighted average regulatory ratings, its long-term debt issuer ratings and the institution’s financial ratios, each equally weighted. Assessment rates for institutions that are in the lowest risk category currently vary from seven to twenty-four basis points per $100 of insured deposits, and may be increased or decreased by the FDIC on a semi-annual basis. Such base assessment rates are subject to adjustments based upon the institution’s ratio of (i) long-term unsecured debt to its domestic deposits, (ii) secured liabilities to domestic deposits and (iii) brokered deposits to domestic deposits (if greater than 10 percent).

 

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In February 2011, the FDIC adopted a final rule (the “New Assessment Rule”) to revise the deposit insurance assessment system for large institutions. The New Assessment Rule creates a two scorecard system for large institutions, one for most large institutions that have more than $10 billion in assets, such as Regions Bank, and another for “highly complex” institutions that have over $50 billion in assets and are fully owned by a parent with over $500 billion in assets. Each scorecard will have a performance score and a loss-severity score that will be combined to produce a total score, which will be translated into an initial assessment rate. In calculating these scores, the FDIC will continue to utilize the bank’s supervisory (CAMELS) ratings and will introduce certain new forward-looking financial measures to assess an institution’s ability to withstand asset-related stress and funding-related stress. The New Assessment Rule also eliminates the use of risk categories and long-term debt issuer ratings for calculating risk-based assessments for institutions having more than $10 billion in assets. The FDIC will continue to have the ability under the New Assessment Rule to make discretionary adjustments to the total score, up or down, based upon significant risk factors that are not adequately captured in the scorecard. The total score will then translate to an initial base assessment rate on a non-linear, sharply-increasing scale. The New Assessment Rule preserves the adjustments to an institution’s base assessment rates based on its long-term unsecured debt and brokered deposits (if greater than 10%) and creates a new adjustment based on the institution’s holdings of long-term unsecured debt issued by a different insured depository institution. The New Assessment Rule eliminates the adjustment to an institution’s base assessment rate based on the its secured liabilities. The final rule will be effective April 1, 2011.

Regions Bank’s deposit insurance assessments are currently based on the total domestic deposits held by Regions Bank. The Dodd-Frank Act requires the FDIC to amend its regulations to base insurance assessments on the average consolidated assets less the average tangible equity of the insured depository institution during the assessment period. Under the New Assessment Rule, which implements these requirements effective April 1, 2011, assessments paid by Regions Bank are expected to increase.

On November 17, 2009, the FDIC implemented a final rule requiring insured institutions, such as Regions Bank, to prepay their estimated quarterly risk-based assessments for the fourth quarter of 2009, and for all of 2010, 2011 and 2012. Such prepaid assessments were paid on December 30, 2009, along with each institution’s quarterly risk-based deposit insurance assessment for the third quarter of 2009 (assuming 5 percent annual growth in deposits between the third quarter of 2009 and the end of 2012 and taking into account, for 2011 and 2012, the annualized three basis point increase discussed below).

The FDIA establishes a minimum ratio of deposit insurance reserves to estimated insured deposits, the designated reserve ratio (the “DRR”), of 1.15 percent prior to September 2020 and 1.35 percent thereafter. On December 20, 2010, the FDIC issued a final rule setting the DRR at 2 percent. Because the DRR fell below 1.15 percent as of June 30, 2008, and was expected to remain below 1.15 percent the FDIC was required to establish and implement a Restoration Plan that would restore the reserve ratio to at least 1.15 percent within five years. In October 2008, the FDIC adopted such a restoration plan (the “Restoration Plan”). In February 2009, in light of the extraordinary challenges facing the banking industry, the FDIC amended the Restoration Plan to allow seven years for the reserve ratio to return to 1.15 percent. In May 2009, the FDIC adopted a final rule that imposed a five basis point special assessment on each institution’s assets minus Tier 1 capital (as of June 30, 2009). Such special assessment was collected on September 30, 2009. In October 2009, the FDIC passed a final rule extending the term of the Restoration Plan to eight years. Such final rule also included a provision that implements a uniform three basis point increase in assessment rates, effective January 1, 2011, to help ensure that the reserve ratio returns to at least 1.15 percent within the eight year period called for by the Restoration Plan. In October 2010, the FDIC adopted a new restoration plan to ensure the DRR reaches 1.35 percent by September 2020. As part of the revised plan, the FDIC will forego the uniform three-basis point increase in assessment rates scheduled to take place in January 2011. The FDIC will, at least semi-annually, update its income and loss projections for the DIF and, if necessary, propose rules to further increase assessment rates. In addition, on January 12, 2010, the FDIC announced that it would seek public comment on whether banks with compensation plans that encourage risky behavior should be charged higher deposit assessment rates than such banks would otherwise be charged. See also “—Incentive Compensation” below.

 

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We cannot predict whether, as a result of an adverse change in economic conditions or other reasons, the FDIC will in the future further increase deposit insurance assessment levels. For more information, see the “FDIC Premiums and Special Assessment” section of Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Under the FDIA, insurance of deposits may be terminated by the FDIC upon a finding that the institution has engaged in unsafe and unsound practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue operations, or has violated any applicable law, regulation, rule, order or condition imposed by the FDIC.

FICO Assessments.    In addition, the Deposit Insurance Funds Act of 1996 authorized the Financing Corporation (“FICO”) to impose assessments on DIF applicable deposits in order to service the interest on FICO’s bond obligations from deposit insurance fund assessments. The amount assessed on individual institutions by FICO will be in addition to the amount, if any, paid for deposit insurance according to the FDIC’s risk-related assessment rate schedules. FICO assessment rates may be adjusted quarterly to reflect a change in assessment base. The FICO annual assessment rate for the fourth quarter of 2010 was 1.04 cents per $100 deposits and will decline to 1.02 cents per $100 deposits for the first quarter of 2011. Regions Bank had a FICO assessment of $10 million in FDIC deposit premiums in 2010.

Acquisitions

The BHC Act requires every bank holding company to obtain the prior approval of the Federal Reserve before: (1) it may acquire direct or indirect ownership or control of any voting shares of any bank or savings and loan association, if after such acquisition, the bank holding company will directly or indirectly own or control 5 percent or more of the voting shares of the institution; (2) it or any of its subsidiaries, other than a bank, may acquire all or substantially all of the assets of any bank or savings and loan association; or (3) it may merge or consolidate with any other bank holding company. Effective July 2011, financial holding companies and bank holding companies with consolidated assets exceeding $50 billion must (i) obtain prior approval from the Federal Reserve before acquiring certain nonbank financial companies with assets exceeding $10 billion and (ii) provide prior written notice to the Federal Reserve before acquiring direct or indirect ownership or control of any voting shares of any company having consolidated assets of $10 billion or more. Bank holding companies seeking approval to complete an acquisition must be well-capitalized and well-managed effective July 2011.

The BHC Act further provides that the Federal Reserve may not approve any transaction that would result in a monopoly or would be in furtherance of any combination or conspiracy to monopolize or attempt to monopolize the business of banking in any section of the United States, or the effect of which may be substantially to lessen competition or to tend to create a monopoly in any section of the country, or that in any other manner would be in restraint of trade, unless the anticompetitive effects of the proposed transaction are clearly outweighed by the public interest in meeting the convenience and needs of the community to be served. The Federal Reserve is also required to consider the financial and managerial resources and future prospects of the bank holding companies and banks concerned and the convenience and needs of the community to be served. Consideration of financial resources generally focuses on capital adequacy, and consideration of convenience and needs issues includes the parties’ performance under the CRA, both of which are discussed below. In addition, the Federal Reserve must take into account the institutions’ effectiveness in combating money laundering.

FDIC Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program

In October 2008, the FDIC announced the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (the “TLGP”), under which the FDIC would guarantee certain senior unsecured debt of FDIC-insured U.S. depository institutions and U.S. bank holding companies as well as non-interest bearing transaction account deposits at FDIC-insured U.S. depository institutions, unless such institutions opted out of the program. Regions and Regions Bank both participated in the TLGP. Although the guarantee of non-interest bearing transaction account deposits under the

 

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TLGP ended on June 30, 2010, the Dodd-Frank Act provides for unlimited FDIC deposit insurance coverage on non-interest bearing transaction accounts at all insured institutions, regardless of participation in the TLGP, until January 1, 2013.

On December 11, 2008, Regions Bank issued and sold $3.5 billion aggregate principal amount of its senior bank notes guaranteed under the TLGP. Regions Bank issued and sold an additional $250 million aggregate principal amount of FDIC-guaranteed senior bank notes on December 16, 2008. Under the TLGP, the FDIC will pay the unpaid principal and interest on such FDIC-guaranteed debt instruments upon the uncured failure of Regions Bank to make a timely payment of principal or interest. Neither Regions nor Regions Bank is permitted to use the proceeds from the sale of securities guaranteed under the TLGP to prepay any of its other debt that is not guaranteed by the FDIC.

U.S. Treasury Capital Purchase Program

Pursuant to the CPP, on November 14, 2008, Regions issued and sold to the U.S. Treasury in a private offering, (i) 3.5 million shares of Series A Preferred Stock and (ii) a warrant (the “Warrant”) to purchase 48,253,677 shares of Regions’ common stock, at an exercise price of $10.88 per share, subject to certain anti-dilution and other adjustments, for an aggregate purchase price of $3.5 billion in cash. The securities purchase agreement, dated November 14, 2008, pursuant to which the securities issued to the U.S. Treasury under the CPP were sold, limits the payment of dividends on Regions’ common stock to $0.10 per share without prior approval of the U.S. Treasury, limits Regions’ ability to repurchase shares of its common stock (with certain exceptions, including the repurchase of our common stock to offset share dilution from equity-based compensation awards), grants the holders of the Series A Preferred Stock, the Warrant and the common stock of Regions to be issued under the Warrant certain registration rights in order to facilitate resale, and subjects Regions to certain of the executive compensation limitations included in the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (“EESA”), as amended by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (“ARRA”).

Depositor Preference

Under federal law, depositors and certain claims for administrative expenses and employee compensation against an insured depository institution would be afforded a priority over other general unsecured claims against such an institution in the “liquidation or other resolution” of such an institution by any receiver.

Incentive Compensation

Guidelines adopted by the federal banking agencies pursuant to the FDIA prohibit excessive compensation as an unsafe and unsound practice and describe compensation as excessive when the amounts paid are unreasonable or disproportionate to the services performed by an executive officer, employee, director or principal stockholder.

In June 2010, the Federal Reserve issued comprehensive guidance on incentive compensation policies (the “Incentive Compensation Guidance”) intended to ensure that the incentive compensation policies of banking organizations do not undermine the safety and soundness of such organizations by encouraging excessive risk-taking. The Incentive Compensation Guidance, which covers all employees that have the ability to materially affect the risk profile of an organization, either individually or as part of a group, is based upon the key principles that a banking organization’s incentive compensation arrangements should (i) provide incentives that do not encourage risk-taking beyond the organization’s ability to effectively identify and manage risks, (ii) be compatible with effective internal controls and risk management, and (iii) be supported by strong corporate governance, including active and effective oversight by the organization’s board of directors. Any deficiencies in compensation practices that are identified may be incorporated into the organization’s supervisory ratings, which can affect its ability to make acquisitions or perform other actions. The Incentive Compensation Guidance provides that enforcement actions may be taken against a banking organization if its incentive compensation

 

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arrangements or related risk-management control or governance processes pose a risk to the organization’s safety and soundness and the organization is not taking prompt and effective measures to correct the deficiencies.

In February 2011, the Federal Reserve and other federal banking agencies requested comments on a notice of proposed rulemaking designed to implement provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act prohibiting incentive compensation arrangements that would encourage inappropriate risk taking at a covered institution, which includes a bank or bank holding company with $1.0 billion or more of assets, such as Regions and Regions Bank. The proposed rule (i) prohibits incentive-based compensation arrangements that encourage executive officers, employees, directors or principal shareholders to expose the institution to inappropriate risks by providing excessive compensation (based on the standards for excessive compensation adopted pursuant to the FDIA) and (ii) prohibits incentive-based compensation arrangements for executive officers, employees, directors or principal shareholders that could lead to a material financial loss for the institution. The proposed rule requires covered institutions to establish policies and procedures for monitoring and evaluating their compensation practices. Institutions with consolidated assets of $50.0 billion or more, such as Regions, are subject to additional restrictions on compensation arrangements for their executive officers and any other persons indentified by the institution’s board of directors as having the ability to expose the institution to substantial losses.

In addition, on January 12, 2010, the FDIC announced that it would seek public comment on whether banks with compensation plans that encourage risky behavior should be charged higher deposit assessment rates than such banks would otherwise be charged.

The scope and content of the U.S. banking regulators’ policies on incentive compensation are continuing to develop and are likely to continue evolving in the near future. It cannot be determined at this time whether compliance with such policies will adversely affect the ability of Regions and its subsidiaries to hire, retain and motivate their key employees.

Orderly Liquidation Authority

The Dodd-Frank Act creates the Orderly Liquidation Authority (“OLA”), a resolution regime for systemically important non-bank financial companies, including bank holding companies, under which the FDIC may be appointed receiver to liquidate such a company if the company is in danger of default and presents a systemic risk to U.S. financial stability. This determination must come after supermajority recommendations by the Federal Reserve and the FDIC and consultation between the Secretary of the U.S. Treasury and the President. This resolution authority is similar to the FDIC resolution model for depository institutions, with certain modifications to reflect differences between depository institutions and non-bank financial companies and to reduce disparities between the treatment of creditors’ claims under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and in an orderly liquidation authority proceeding compared to those that would exist under the resolution model for insured depository institutions.

An Orderly Liquidation Fund will fund OLA liquidation proceedings through borrowings from the Treasury Department and risk-based assessments made, first, on entities that received more in the resolution than they would have received in liquidation to the extent of such excess, and second, if necessary, on bank holding companies with total consolidated assets of $50.0 billion or more, such as Regions. If an orderly liquidation is triggered, Regions could face assessments for the Orderly Liquidation Fund. We do not yet have an indication of the level of such assessments.

Financial Privacy

The federal banking regulators have adopted rules that limit the ability of banks and other financial institutions to disclose non-public information about consumers to non-affiliated third parties. These limitations require disclosure of privacy policies to consumers and, in some circumstances, allow consumers to prevent disclosure of certain personal information to a non-affiliated third party. These regulations affect how consumer

 

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information is transmitted through diversified financial companies and conveyed to outside vendors. In addition, consumers may also prevent disclosure of certain information among affiliated companies that is assembled or used to determine eligibility for a product or service, such as that shown on consumer credit reports and asset and income information from applications. Consumers also have the option to direct banks and other financial institutions not to share information about transactions and experiences with affiliated companies for the purpose of marketing products or services.

Community Reinvestment Act

Regions Bank is subject to the provisions of the CRA. Under the terms of the CRA, Regions Bank has a continuing and affirmative obligation consistent with safe and sound operation to help meet the credit needs of its communities, including providing credit to individuals residing in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. The CRA does not establish specific lending requirements or programs for financial institutions nor does it limit an institution’s discretion to develop the types of products and services that it believes are best suited to its particular community, consistent with the CRA. The CRA requires each appropriate federal bank regulatory agency, in connection with its examination of a depository institution, to assess such institution’s record in assessing and meeting the credit needs of the community served by that institution, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. The regulatory agency’s assessment of the institution’s record is made available to the public. The assessment also is part of the Federal Reserve’s consideration of applications to acquire, merge or consolidate with another banking institution or its holding company, to establish a new branch office that will accept deposits or to relocate an office. In the case of a bank holding company applying for approval to acquire a bank or other bank holding company, the Federal Reserve will assess the records of each subsidiary depository institution of the applicant bank holding company, and such records may be the basis for denying the application. Regions Bank received a “satisfactory” CRA rating in its most recent examination.

USA PATRIOT Act

A focus of governmental policy relating to financial institutions in recent years has been aimed at combating money laundering and terrorist financing. The USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 (the “USA PATRIOT Act”) broadened the application of anti-money laundering regulations to apply to additional types of financial institutions such as broker-dealers, investment advisors and insurance companies, and strengthened the ability of the U.S. Government to help prevent, detect and prosecute international money laundering and the financing of terrorism. The principal provisions of Title III of the USA PATRIOT Act require that regulated financial institutions, including state member banks: (i) establish an anti-money laundering program that includes training and audit components; (ii) comply with regulations regarding the verification of the identity of any person seeking to open an account; (iii) take additional required precautions with non-U.S. owned accounts; and (iv) perform certain verification and certification of money laundering risk for their foreign correspondent banking relationships. Failure of a financial institution to comply with the USA PATRIOT Act’s requirements could have serious legal and reputational consequences for the institution. Regions’ banking, broker-dealer and insurance subsidiaries have augmented their systems and procedures to meet the requirements of these regulations and will continue to revise and update their policies, procedures and controls to reflect changes required by the USA PATRIOT Act and implementing regulations.

Office of Foreign Assets Control Regulation

The United States has imposed economic sanctions that affect transactions with designated foreign countries, nationals and others. These are typically known as the “OFAC” rules based on their administration by the U.S. Treasury Department Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”). The OFAC-administered sanctions targeting countries take many different forms. Generally, however, they contain one or more of the following elements: (i) restrictions on trade with or investment in a sanctioned country, including prohibitions against direct or indirect imports from and exports to a sanctioned country and prohibitions on “U.S. persons” engaging in financial transactions relating to, making investments in, or providing investment-related advice or assistance to,

 

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a sanctioned country; and (ii) a blocking of assets in which the government or specially designated nationals of the sanctioned country have an interest, by prohibiting transfers of property subject to U.S. jurisdiction (including property in the possession or control of U.S. persons). Blocked assets (e.g., property and bank deposits) cannot be paid out, withdrawn, set off or transferred in any manner without a license from OFAC. Failure to comply with these sanctions could have serious legal and reputational consequences.

Regulation of Insurers and Insurance Brokers

Regions’ operations in the areas of insurance brokerage and reinsurance of credit life insurance are subject to regulation and supervision by various state insurance regulatory authorities. Although the scope of regulation and form of supervision may vary from state to state, insurance laws generally grant broad discretion to regulatory authorities in adopting regulations and supervising regulated activities. This supervision generally includes the licensing of insurance brokers and agents and the regulation of the handling of customer funds held in a fiduciary capacity. Certain of Regions’ insurance company subsidiaries are subject to extensive regulatory supervision and to insurance laws and regulations requiring, among other things, maintenance of capital, record keeping, reporting and examinations.

Regulation of Morgan Keegan

Morgan Keegan is subject to regulation and examination by the SEC, FINRA, NYSE and other SROs. Such regulations cover a broad range of subject matter. Rules and regulations for registered broker-dealers cover such issues as: capital requirements; sales and trading practices; use of client funds and securities; the conduct of directors, officers and employees; record-keeping and recording; supervisory procedures to prevent improper trading on material non-public information; qualification and licensing of sales personnel; and limitations on the extension of credit in securities transactions. Rules and regulations for registered investment advisers include limitations on the ability of investment advisers to charge performance-based or non-refundable fees to clients, record-keeping and reporting requirements, disclosure requirements, limitations on principal transactions between an adviser or its affiliates and advisory clients, and anti-fraud standards.

Morgan Keegan is subject to the net capital requirements set forth in Rule 15c3-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The net capital requirements measure the general financial condition and liquidity of a broker-dealer by specifying a minimum level of net capital that a broker-dealer must maintain, and by requiring that a significant portion of its assets be kept liquid. If Morgan Keegan failed to maintain its minimum required net capital, it would be required to cease executing customer transactions until it came back into compliance. This could also result in Morgan Keegan losing its FINRA membership, its registration with the SEC or require a complete liquidation.

The SEC’s risk assessment rules also apply to Morgan Keegan as a registered broker-dealer. These rules require broker-dealers to maintain and preserve records and certain information, describe risk management policies and procedures, and report on the financial condition of affiliates whose financial and securities activities are reasonably likely to have a material impact on the financial and operational condition of the broker-dealer. Certain “material associated persons” of Morgan Keegan, as defined in the risk assessment rules, may also be subject to SEC regulation.

In addition to federal registration, state securities commissions require the registration of certain broker-dealers and investment advisers. Morgan Keegan is registered as a broker-dealer with every state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Morgan Keegan is registered as an investment adviser in over 40 states and the District of Columbia.

Violations of federal, state and SRO rules or regulations may result in the revocation of broker-dealer or investment adviser licenses, imposition of censures or fines, the issuance of cease and desist orders, and the suspension or expulsion of officers and employees from the securities business firm.

 

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The Dodd-Frank Act contains several provisions which may affect Morgan Keegan’s business, including registration of municipal advisors, increased regulation of investment advisors and conducting a study regarding the fiduciary duties of investment advisors. Morgan Keegan’s business may be adversely affected by new rules and regulations issued by the SEC or SROs, the implementation of provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act applicable to Morgan Keegan, and any changes in the enforcement of existing laws and rules that affect its securities business.

Competition

All aspects of Regions’ business are highly competitive. Regions’ subsidiaries compete with other financial institutions located in the states in which they operate and other adjoining states, as well as large banks in major financial centers and other financial intermediaries, such as savings and loan associations, credit unions, consumer finance companies, brokerage firms, insurance companies, investment companies, mutual funds, mortgage companies and financial service operations of major commercial and retail corporations. Regions expects competition to intensify among financial services companies due to the recent consolidation of certain competing financial institutions and the conversion of certain investment banks to bank holding companies.

Customers for banking services and other financial services offered by Regions’ subsidiaries are generally influenced by convenience, quality of service, personal contacts, price of services and availability of products. Although Regions’ position varies in different markets, Regions believes that its affiliates effectively compete with other financial services companies in their relevant market areas.

Employees

As of December 31, 2010, Regions and its subsidiaries had 27,829 employees.

Available Information

Regions maintains a website at www.regions.com. Regions makes available on its website free of charge its annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports which are filed with or furnished to the SEC pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These documents are made available on Regions’ website as soon as reasonably practicable after they are electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC. Also available on the website are Regions’ (i) Corporate Governance Principles, (ii) Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, (iii) Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers, (iv) Expenditures Policy, and (v) the charters of its Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and Risk Committee.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Our businesses have been and may continue to be adversely affected by conditions in the financial markets and economic conditions generally.

The capital and credit markets since 2008 have experienced unprecedented levels of volatility and disruption. In some cases, the markets produced downward pressure on stock prices and credit availability for certain issuers without regard to those issuers’ underlying financial strength. Although the economic slowdown that the United States experienced has begun to reverse and the markets have generally improved, business activities across a wide range of industries continue to face serious difficulties due to the lack of consumer spending and the lack of liquidity in the global credit markets. Heightened unemployment levels have further increased these difficulties.

A sustained weakness or weakening in business and economic conditions generally or specifically in the principal markets in which we do business could have one or more of the following adverse effects on our business:

 

   

A decrease in the demand for loans and other products and services offered by us;

 

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A decrease in the value of our loans held for sale or other assets secured by consumer or commercial real estate;

 

   

An impairment of certain intangible assets, such as goodwill;

 

   

A decrease in interest income from variable rate loans, due to potential reductions in interest rates; and

 

   

An increase in the number of clients and counterparties who become delinquent, file for protection under bankruptcy laws or default on their loans or other obligations to us. An increase in the number of delinquencies, bankruptcies or defaults could result in a higher level of nonperforming assets, net charge-offs, provision for loan losses, and valuation adjustments on loans held for sale.

Overall, during the past three years, the general business environment has had an adverse effect on our business. Although the general business environment has shown some improvement, there can be no assurance that it will continue to improve. If economic conditions worsen or remain volatile, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Market developments may adversely affect our industry, business and results of operations.

Dramatic declines in the housing market during recent years, with falling home prices and increasing foreclosures, unemployment and under-employment, have negatively impacted the credit performance of real estate-related loans and resulted in, and may continue to result in, significant write-downs of asset values by us and other financial institutions, including government-sponsored entities and major commercial and investment banks. These write-downs, initially of mortgage-backed securities but spreading to credit default swaps and other securities and loans, have caused many financial institutions to seek additional capital, to reduce or eliminate dividends, to merge with larger and stronger institutions and, in some cases, to fail. Reflecting concern about the stability of the financial markets generally and the strength of counterparties, many lenders and institutional investors have reduced, and in some cases, ceased to provide funding to borrowers including financial institutions.

Further negative market developments may affect consumer confidence levels and may cause adverse changes in payment patterns, causing increases in delinquencies and default rates, which may impact our charge-offs and provisions for credit losses. Continuing economic deterioration that affects household or corporate incomes could also result in reduced demand for credit or fee-based products and services. A worsening of these conditions would likely exacerbate the adverse effects of these difficult market conditions on us and others in the financial services industry.

Our status as a non-investment grade issuer and any future reductions in our credit ratings may increase our funding costs or place limitations on business activities related to providing credit support to customers.

The major rating agencies regularly evaluate us and their ratings of our long-term debt based on a number of factors, including our financial strength and conditions affecting the financial services industry generally. Over the past two years, all of the major ratings agencies downgraded Regions’ and Regions Bank’s credit ratings, and many of our ratings remain on negative watch or negative outlook. Negative watch, negative outlook or other similar terms mean that a future downgrade is possible. Most recently, Regions’ Senior ratings were downgraded to Ba3, BB+, BBB- and BBB by Moody’s Investor Services, Standard & Poor’s, Fitch Ratings and Dominion Bond Rating Service, respectively. Our ratings with Moody’s Investor Services and Standard & Poor’s are below investment grade.

In general, ratings agencies base their ratings on many quantitative and qualitative factors, including capital adequacy, liquidity, asset quality, business mix and level and quality of earnings, and we may not be able to maintain our current credit ratings. The ratings assigned to Regions and Regions Bank remain subject to change at any time, and it is possible that any ratings agency will take action to downgrade Regions, Regions Bank or both in the future.

 

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The decreases in our credit rating over the past two years, our status as a non-investment grade issuer and any future decrease in our credit ratings by one or more ratings agencies could impact our access to the capital markets or short-term funding or increase our financing costs, and thereby adversely affect Regions’ financial condition and liquidity. Where Regions Bank is providing forms of credit support such as letters of credit, standby lending arrangements or other forms of credit support, this recent decline and future declines may cause customers of Regions to seek replacement credit support from a higher rated institution and may limit our ability to compete for future business. Our counterparties are also sensitive to the risk of a ratings downgrade and have the ability to terminate or may be less likely to engage in transactions with us, or may only engage in transactions with us at a substantially higher cost. We cannot predict whether customer relationships or opportunities for future relationships could be adversely affected by customers who choose to do business with a higher rated institution. The inability to retain customers or to effectively compete for new business may have a material and adverse effect on Regions’ business, financial condition and results of operations.

Additionally, ratings agencies have themselves been subject to scrutiny arising from the financial crisis such that the rating agencies may make or may be required to make substantial changes to their ratings policies and practices. Such changes may, among other things, adversely affect the ratings of our securities or other securities in which we have an economic interest.

The value of our deferred tax assets could adversely affect our operating results and regulatory capital ratios.

As of December 31, 2010, Regions had approximately $1.4 billion in net deferred tax assets, of which $424 million was disallowed when calculating regulatory capital. Applicable banking regulations permit us to include these deferred tax assets, up to a maximum amount, when calculating Regions’ regulatory capital to the extent these assets will be realized based on future projected earnings within one year of the report date. The ability to realize these deferred tax assets during any year also includes the ability to apply these assets to offset any taxable income during the two previous years. Unless we anticipate generating sufficient taxable income in the future, we may be unable to include additional amounts related to our deferred tax assets as part of our regulatory capital. The inability to include deferred tax assets in our regulatory capital could significantly reduce our regulatory capital ratios.

Additionally, our deferred tax assets are subject to an evaluation of whether it is more likely than not that they will be realized for financial statement purposes. In making this determination we consider all positive and negative evidence available including the impact of recent operating results as well as potential carryback of tax to prior years taxable income, reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, tax planning strategies and projected earnings within the statutory tax loss carryover period. We have determined that the deferred tax assets are more likely than not to be realized at December 31, 2010 (except for $30 million related to state deferred tax assets for which we have established a valuation allowance). If we were to conclude that a significant portion of our deferred tax assets were not more likely than not to be realized, the required valuation allowance could adversely affect our financial position and results of operations.

We have been the subject of increased litigation which could result in legal liability and damage to our reputation.

We and certain of our subsidiaries have been named from time to time as defendants in various class actions and other litigation relating to their business and activities. Past, present and future litigation have included or could include claims for substantial compensatory or punitive damages or claims for indeterminate amounts of damages. We and certain of our subsidiaries are also involved from time to time in other reviews, investigations and proceedings (both formal and informal) by governmental and self-regulatory agencies regarding their business. These matters also could result in adverse judgments, settlements, fines, penalties, injunctions or other relief.

In addition, in recent years, a number of judicial decisions have upheld the right of borrowers to sue lending institutions on the basis of various evolving legal theories, collectively termed “lender liability.” Generally,

 

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lender liability is founded on the premise that a lender has either violated a duty, whether implied or contractual, of good faith and fair dealing owed to the borrower or has assumed a degree of control over the borrower resulting in the creation of a fiduciary duty owed to the borrower or its other creditors or shareholders.

Substantial legal liability or significant regulatory action against us or our subsidiaries could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations or cause significant harm to our reputation. Additional information relating to litigation affecting Regions and our subsidiaries is discussed in Note 23 “Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees” to the consolidated financial statements of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Further disruptions in the residential real estate market could adversely affect our performance.

As of December 31, 2010, investor real estate loans secured by land, single-family and condominium properties, plus home equity loans secured by second liens in Florida represented approximately 8 percent of our total loan portfolio. These portions of our loan portfolio have been under pressure for over three years and, due to weakening credit quality, we have increased our loan loss provision and our total allowance for credit losses. In addition, we have implemented several measures to support the management of these sections of the loan portfolio, including reassignment of experienced, key relationship managers to focus on work-out strategies for distressed borrowers.

While we expect that these actions will help mitigate the overall effects of the downward credit cycle, the weaknesses in these sections of our loan portfolio are expected to continue well into 2011. Accordingly, it is anticipated that our non-performing asset and charge-off levels will remain elevated.

Further, the effects of recent mortgage market challenges, combined with decreases in residential real estate market prices and demand, could result in further price reductions in home values, adversely affecting the value of collateral securing the residential real estate and construction loans that we hold, as well as loan originations and gains on sale of real estate and construction loans. Specifically, a significant portion of our residential mortgages and commercial real estate loan portfolios are composed of borrowers in the Southeastern United States, in which certain markets have been particularly adversely affected by declines in real estate value, declines in home sale volumes, and declines in new home building. For example, prices of Florida properties remain under significant pressure, with high unemployment levels relative to periods prior to 2008 and the continuing impact of the recent real estate downturn on the general economy. These factors could result in higher delinquencies and greater charge-offs in future periods, which would materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. A decline in home values or overall economic weakness could also have an adverse impact upon the value of real estate or other assets which we own upon foreclosing on a loan.

Continuing weakness in the commercial real estate market could adversely affect our performance.

The fundamentals within the commercial real estate sector remain weak, under continuing pressure from reduced asset values, rising vacancies and reduced rents. As of December 31, 2010, approximately 19 percent of our loan portfolio consisted of investor real estate loans. Investor real estate loans secured by land, single-family and condominiums continue to be impacted by declining property values, especially in areas where Regions has significant lending activities, including Florida and north Georgia. The properties securing income-producing investor real estate loans are typically not fully leased at the origination of the loan. The borrower’s ability to repay the loan is instead reliant upon additional leasing through the life of the loan or the borrower’s successful operation of a business. Weak economic conditions may impair a borrower’s business operations and typically slow the execution of new leases. Such economic conditions may also lead to existing lease turnover. As a result of these factors, vacancy rates for retail, office and industrial space may remain at elevated levels in 2011. High vacancy rates could result in rents falling further over the next several quarters. The combination of these factors could result in further deterioration in the fundamentals underlying the commercial real estate market and the deterioration of one or more loans we have made. Any such deterioration could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

 

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Our profitability and liquidity may be affected by changes in economic conditions in the areas where our operations or loans are concentrated.

Our success depends to a certain extent on the general economic conditions of the geographic markets served by Regions Bank in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. The local economic conditions in these areas have a significant impact on Regions Bank’s commercial, real estate and construction loans, the ability of borrowers to repay these loans and the value of the collateral securing these loans. Adverse changes in the economic conditions of these geographical areas for over three years have had a negative impact on the financial results of our banking operations and may continue to have a negative effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Any future adverse changes may also negatively effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Improvements in economic indicators disproportionately affecting the financial services industry may lag improvements in the general economy.

The improvement of certain economic indicators, such as unemployment and real estate asset values and rents, may continue to lag behind improvement in the overall economy. These economic indicators typically affect certain industries, such as real estate and financial services, more significantly. For example, improvements in commercial real estate fundamentals typically lag broad economic recovery by twelve to eighteen months. Our clients include entities active in these industries. Furthermore, financial services companies with a substantial lending business, like ours, are dependent upon the ability of their borrowers to make debt service payments on loans. Should unemployment or real estate asset values fail to recover for an extended period of time, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be adversely affected.

Negative perceptions associated with our continued participation in the U.S. Treasury’s Capital Purchase Program may adversely affect our ability to retain customers, attract investors and compete for new business opportunities.

On November 14, 2008, we issued and sold 3,500,000 shares of Series A Preferred Stock and the Warrant to purchase up to 48,253,677 shares of our common stock to the U.S. Treasury as part of the CPP. Several financial institutions which also participated in the CPP (including some banks considered to be our peer banks) have exited, or have applied for permission to exit, the program. In order to repurchase one or both securities, in whole or in part, we must establish that we have satisfied all of the conditions to repurchase and must obtain the approval of the U.S. Treasury. There can be no assurance that we will be able to repurchase these securities from the U.S. Treasury. Our customers, employees and counterparties in our current and future business relationships may draw negative implications regarding the strength of Regions as a financial institution based on our continued participation in the CPP following the exit of one or more of our competitors or other financial institutions. Any such negative perceptions may impair our ability to effectively compete with other financial institutions for business or to retain high performing employees. If this were to occur, our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations may be adversely affected, perhaps materially.

The limitations on incentive compensation contained in the ARRA and its implementing regulations may adversely affect our ability to retain our highest performing employees.

Because we have not yet repurchased the U.S. Treasury’s CPP investment, we remain subject to the restrictions on incentive compensation contained in the ARRA. On June 10, 2009, the U.S. Treasury released its interim final rule implementing the provisions of the ARRA and limiting the compensation practices at institutions in which the U.S. Treasury is invested. Financial institutions which have repurchased the U.S. Treasury’s CPP investment are relieved of the restrictions imposed by the ARRA and its implementing regulations. Due to these restrictions, we may not be able to successfully compete with financial institutions that have exited the CPP to retain and attract high performing employees. If this were to occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected, perhaps materially.

 

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Our participation in the U.S. Treasury’s CPP imposes restrictions and obligations on us that limit our ability to increase dividends, repurchase shares of our common stock and access the equity capital markets.

Prior to November 14, 2011, unless we have redeemed all of the Series A Preferred Stock purchased by the U.S. Treasury as part of the CPP or the U.S. Treasury has transferred all of the Series A Preferred Stock to a third party, the agreement pursuant to which such securities were sold, among other things, limits the payment of dividends on our common stock to a quarterly dividend of $0.10 per share without prior regulatory approval, limits our ability to repurchase shares of our common stock (with certain exceptions, including the repurchase of our common stock to offset share dilution from equity-based compensation awards), and grants the holders of such securities certain registration rights which, in certain circumstances, impose lock-up periods during which we would be unable to issue equity securities. Regions has reduced its quarterly dividend to $0.01 per share and does not expect to increase its quarterly dividend above such level for the foreseeable future. In addition, unless we are able to redeem the preferred stock prior to November 15, 2013, the dividends on the preferred stock will increase substantially, from 5 percent ($175 million annually) to 9 percent ($315 million annually).

We are subject to extensive governmental regulation, which could have an adverse impact on our operations.

The banking industry is extensively regulated and supervised under both federal and state law. Regions and Regions Bank are subject to the regulation and supervision of the Federal Reserve, the FDIC and the Superintendent of Banking of the State of Alabama. These regulations are intended primarily to protect depositors, the public and the FDIC insurance fund, and not our shareholders. These regulations govern matters ranging from the regulation of certain debt obligations, changes in the control of bank holding companies and state-chartered banks, and the maintenance of adequate capital to the general business operations and financial condition of Regions Bank, including permissible types, amounts and terms of loans and investments, to the amount of reserves against deposits, restrictions on dividends, establishment of branch offices, and the maximum interest rate that may be charged by law. Additionally, certain subsidiaries of Regions, such as Morgan Keegan, are subject to regulation, supervision and examination by other regulatory authorities, such as the SEC, FINRA and state securities and insurance regulators, and our non-bank subsidiaries are subject to oversight by the Federal Reserve.

As a result, we are subject to changes in federal and state law, as well as regulations and governmental policies, income tax laws and accounting principles. Regulations affecting banks and other financial institutions are undergoing continuous review and frequently change, and the ultimate effect of such changes cannot be predicted. Regulations and laws may be modified at any time, and new legislation may be enacted that will affect us, Regions Bank and our subsidiaries. Any changes in any federal and state law, as well as regulations and governmental policies, income tax laws and accounting principles, could affect us in substantial and unpredictable ways, including ways which may adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. Failure to appropriately comply with any such laws, regulations or principles could result in sanctions by regulatory agencies, civil money penalties or damage to our reputation, all of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. Our regulatory position is discussed in greater detail under the “Capital Ratios” section of Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Recent legislation regarding the financial services industry may have a significant adverse effect on our operations.

The Dodd-Frank Act, which was signed into law on July 21, 2010, implements a variety of far-reaching changes and has been called the most sweeping reform of the financial services industry since the 1930s. Many of the provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act will directly affect our ability to conduct our business including:

 

   

Imposition of higher prudential standards, including more stringent risk-based capital, leverage, liquidity and risk-management requirements, and numerous other requirements on “systemically significant institutions,” currently defined to include, among other things, all bank holding companies with assets of at least $50 billion (which would include Regions);

 

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Establishment of the FSOC to identify and impose additional regulatory oversight of large financial firms;

 

   

Mandates requiring the Federal Reserve to establish standards for determining whether interchange fees charged by certain financial institutions are reasonable and proportional to the costs incurred by such institutions;

 

   

Imposition of additional costs and fees, including fees to be set by the Federal Reserve and charged to “systemically significant institutions” to cover the cost of regulating such institutions and any FDIC assessment made to cover the costs of any regular or special examination of Regions or its affiliates;

 

   

Establishment of the CFPB with broad authority to implement new consumer protection regulations and to examine and enforce compliance with federal consumer laws;

 

   

Application to bank holding companies of regulatory capital requirements similar to those applied to banks, which requirements exclude, on a phase-out basis, all trust preferred securities and cumulative preferred stock from Tier 1 capital (except for preferred stock issued under the U.S. Treasury’s Troubled Asset Relief Program (“TARP”), such as the Series A Preferred Stock, which will continue to qualify as Tier 1 capital as long as it remains outstanding); and

 

   

Establishment of new rules and restrictions regarding the origination of mortgages.

Many provisions in the Dodd-Frank Act remain subject to regulatory rule-making and implementation, the effects of which are not yet known. As a result, it is difficult to gauge the ultimate impact of certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act because the implementation of many concepts is left to regulatory agencies. For example, the CFPB is given the power to adopt new regulations to protect consumers and is given control over existing consumer protection regulations adopted by federal banking regulators.

The provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act and any rules adopted to implement those provisions as well as any additional legislative or regulatory changes may impact the profitability of our business activities and costs of operations, require that we change certain of our business practices, materially affect our business model or affect retention of key personnel, require us to raise additional regulatory capital, including additional Tier 1 capital, and could expose us to additional costs (including increased compliance costs). These and other changes may also require us to invest significant management attention and resources to make any necessary changes and may adversely affect our ability to conduct our business as previously conducted or our results of operations or financial condition.

We may need to raise additional debt or equity capital in the future; such capital may be dilutive to our existing shareholders or may not be available when needed or at all.

We may need to raise additional capital in the future to provide us with sufficient capital resources and liquidity to meet our commitments and business needs. Our ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will depend on, among other things, conditions in the capital markets at that time, which are outside of our control, and our financial performance. The recent economic slowdown and loss of confidence in financial institutions may increase our cost of funding and limit our access to some of our customary sources of capital, including, but not limited to, inter-bank borrowings, repurchase agreements and borrowings from the discount window of the Federal Reserve. Additionally, our debt ratings are currently not investment grade according to some credit ratings agencies. As a non-investment grade issuer, our cost of funding and access to the capital markets may be further limited.

We cannot assure you that capital will be available to us on acceptable terms or at all. Any occurrence that may limit our access to the capital markets, such as a decline in the confidence of debt purchasers, depositors of Regions Bank or counterparties participating in the capital markets, our status as a non-investment grade issuer, or a further downgrade of our debt rating, may adversely affect our capital costs and our ability to raise capital and, in turn, our liquidity. An inability to raise additional capital on acceptable terms when needed could have a materially adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

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Increases in FDIC insurance premiums may adversely affect our earnings.

Our deposits are insured by the FDIC up to legal limits and, accordingly, we are subject to FDIC deposit insurance assessments. We generally cannot control the amount of premiums we will be required to pay for FDIC insurance. High levels of bank failures over the past three years and increases in the statutory deposit insurance limits have increased resolution costs to the FDIC and put pressure on the DIF. In order to maintain a strong funding position and restore the reserve ratios of the DIF, the FDIC increased assessment rates on insured institutions, charged a special assessment to all insured institutions as of June 30, 2009 and required banks to prepay three years’ worth of premiums on December 30, 2009. If there are additional financial institution failures, we may be required to pay even higher FDIC premiums than the recently increased levels, or the FDIC may charge additional special assessments. Further, the FDIC recently increased the DIF’s target reserve ratio to 2.0 percent of insured deposits following the Dodd-Frank Act’s elimination of the 1.5 percent cap on the DIF’s reserve ratio. Additional increases in our assessment rate may be required in the future to achieve this targeted reserve ratio. These recent increases in deposit assessments and any future increases, required prepayments or special assessments of FDIC insurance premiums may adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Additionally, pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Act, the FDIC must amend its regulations regarding assessment for federal deposit insurance to base such assessments on the average total consolidated assets of the insured institution during the assessment period, less the average tangible equity of the institution during the assessment period. Currently, we are assessed only on deposit balances, and this change may result in a substantial increase in the base to which the assessment rate is applied. The FDIC adopted a rule implementing this change, as well as adopting a revised risk-based assessment calculation in February 2011. The FDIC has also proposed a rule tying assessment rates of FDIC-insured institutions to the institution’s employee compensation programs. The exact nature and cumulative effect of these recent changes are not yet known, but they are expected to increase the amount of premiums we must pay for FDIC insurance. Any such increase may adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

The recent repeal of federal prohibitions on payment of interest on demand deposits could increase our interest expense.

All federal prohibitions on the ability of financial institutions to pay interest on demand deposit accounts were repealed as part of the Dodd-Frank Act. As a result, beginning on July 21, 2011, financial institutions could commence offering interest on demand deposits to compete for clients. We do not yet know what interest rates or products other institutions may offer. Our interest expense will increase and our net interest margin will decrease if we begin offering interest on demand deposits to attract additional customers or maintain current customers. Consequently, our business, financial condition or results of operations may be adversely affected, perhaps materially.

We may be subject to more stringent capital requirements.

Regions and Regions Bank are each subject to capital adequacy guidelines and other regulatory requirements specifying minimum amounts and types of capital which each of Regions and Regions Bank must maintain. From time to time, the regulators implement changes to these regulatory capital adequacy guidelines. If we fail to meet these minimum capital guidelines and other regulatory requirements, our financial condition would be materially and adversely affected. In light of proposed changes to regulatory capital requirements contained in the Dodd-Frank Act and the regulatory accords on international banking institutions formulated by the Basel Committee and implemented by the Federal Reserve, we likely will be required to satisfy additional, more stringent, capital adequacy standards. The ultimate impact of the new capital and liquidity standards on us cannot be determined at this time and will depend on a number of factors, including the treatment and implementation by the U.S. banking regulators. These requirements, however, and any other new regulations, could adversely affect our ability to pay dividends, or could require us to reduce business levels or to raise capital, including in ways that may adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations. For more

 

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information concerning our compliance with capital requirements, see the “Bank Regulatory Capital Requirements” section of Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

If an orderly liquidation of a systemically important non-bank financial company were triggered, we could face assessments for the Orderly Liquidation Fund.

The Dodd-Frank Act creates a new mechanism, the OLA, for liquidation of systemically important nonbank financial companies, including bank holding companies. The OLA is administered by the FDIC and is based on the FDIC’s bank resolution model. The Secretary of the U.S. Treasury may trigger a liquidation under this authority only after consultation with the President of the United States and after receiving a recommendation from the boards of the FDIC and the Federal Reserve upon a two-thirds vote. Liquidation proceedings will be funded by the Orderly Liquidation Fund, which will borrow from the U.S. Treasury and impose risk-based assessments on covered financial companies. Risk-based assessments would be made, first, on entities that received more in the resolution than they would have received in the liquidation to the extent of such excess, and second, if necessary, on, among others, bank holding companies with total consolidated assets of $50 billion or more, such as Regions. Any such assessments may adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Proposed rules regulating the imposition of debit card income may adversely affect our operations.

The Dodd-Frank Act gives the Federal Reserve the authority to establish rules regarding interchange fees charged by payment card issuers for transactions in which a person uses certain types of debit cards, requiring that such fees be reasonable and proportional to the cost incurred by the issuer with respect to such transaction, subject to a possible adjustment to account for costs incurred in connection with the issuer’s fraud prevention policies. On December 16, 2010, the Federal Reserve requested comment on a proposed rule which would take effect on July 21, 2011 and which, if enacted, would significantly impact the amount of interchange fees collected by Regions Bank. The proposed rule contains two alternative restrictions on the permissible level of interchange fees: a uniform restriction of 12 cents per transaction and an issuer-specific restriction containing a safe harbor of 7 cents per transaction and a cap of 12 cents per transaction. Neither alternative makes a distinction between PIN or signature transactions, and under both alternatives, the interchange fee will be much lower than the 44 cents per transaction which is the average amount charged for all debit transactions according to the Federal Reserve’s study on interchange transactions. The restrictions on interchange fees contained in the proposed rule would be applicable to all debit card issuers who, together with their affiliates, possess more than $10 billion in assets, such as Regions Bank, and do not include adjustments associated with costs resulting from compliance with the issuer’s fraud prevention policies, which are expected to be included at a later date.

The proposed rule would also prohibit issuers and payment card networks from restricting the number of payment card networks on which an electronic debit transaction may be processed to: (1) one network; or (2) two or more networks that are owned, controlled or operated by affiliates or networks affiliated with the issuer. To implement the network exclusivity restrictions of the proposed rule, the Federal Reserve has offered two alternative methods for comment. One alternative (Alternative A) prohibits networks and issuers from limiting the number of payment card networks available for processing an electronic debit transaction to fewer than two unaffiliated networks, regardless of the means by which a transaction may be authorized. The other alternative (Alternative B) prohibits networks and issuers from limiting the number of networks available for processing an electronic debit transaction to fewer than two unaffiliated networks for each method by which a transaction may be authorized. In the event the Federal Reserve adopts Alternative B, considerable costs and immense operational complexity will be associated with its implementation.

In 2010, Regions Bank collected $346 million in debit card income, and without mitigating actions this amount could potentially be negatively impacted going forward. Based on the current proposed rule, Regions Bank’s revenues resulting from debit card income would likely be reduced to approximately one quarter of

 

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current levels, absent any mitigating actions, based on the 12 cent alternative described above. While the final regulations are not yet known, they may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

We are a holding company and depend on our subsidiaries for dividends, distributions and other payments.

We are a legal entity separate and distinct from our banking and other subsidiaries. Our principal source of cash flow, including cash flow to pay dividends to our stockholders and principal and interest on our outstanding debt, is dividends from Regions Bank. There are statutory and regulatory limitations on the payment of dividends by Regions Bank to us, as well as by us to our stockholders. Regulations of both the Federal Reserve and the State of Alabama affect the ability of Regions Bank to pay dividends and other distributions to us and to make loans to us. Due to losses recorded at Regions Bank during 2009 and 2010, under the Federal Reserve’s rules, Regions Bank may not be able to pay dividends to us in the near term without first obtaining regulatory approval. If Regions Bank is unable to make dividend payments to us and sufficient cash or liquidity is not otherwise available, we may not be able to make dividend payments to our common and preferred stockholders or principal and interest payments on our outstanding debt. See the “Stockholders’ Equity” section of Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. In addition, our right to participate in a distribution of assets upon a subsidiary’s liquidation or reorganization is subject to the prior claims of the subsidiary’s creditors.

If we experience greater credit losses than anticipated, our earnings may be adversely affected.

As a lender, we are exposed to the risk that our customers will be unable to repay their loans according to their terms and that any collateral securing the payment of their loans may not be sufficient to assure repayment. Credit losses are inherent in the business of making loans and could have a material adverse effect on our operating results. Our credit risk with respect to our real estate and construction loan portfolio will relate principally to the creditworthiness of corporate borrowers and the value of the real estate serving as security for the repayment of loans. Our credit risk with respect to our commercial and consumer loan portfolio will relate principally to the general creditworthiness of businesses and individuals within our local markets.

We make various assumptions and judgments about the collectability of our loan portfolio and provide an allowance for estimated credit losses based on a number of factors. We believe that our allowance for credit losses is adequate. However, if our assumptions or judgments are wrong, our allowance for credit losses may not be sufficient to cover our actual credit losses. We may have to increase our allowance in the future in response to the request of one of our primary banking regulators, to adjust for changing conditions and assumptions, or as a result of any deterioration in the quality of our loan portfolio. The actual amount of future provisions for credit losses cannot be determined at this time and may vary from the amounts of past provisions.

The value of our goodwill and other intangible assets may decline in the future.

As of December 31, 2010, we had $5.6 billion of goodwill and $385 million of other intangible assets. A significant decline in our expected future cash flows, a significant adverse change in the business climate, slower growth rates or a significant and sustained decline in the price of our common stock, any or all of which could be materially impacted by many of the risk factors discussed herein, may necessitate our taking charges in the future related to the impairment of our goodwill. Future regulatory actions could also have a material impact on assessments of goodwill for impairment. Additionally, if the fair values of our net assets improves at a faster rate than the market value of our Banking/Treasury reporting unit, we may also have to take charges related to the impairment of our goodwill. If we were to conclude that a future write-down of our goodwill and other intangible assets is necessary, we would record the appropriate charge, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

 

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Rapid and significant changes in market interest rates may adversely affect our performance.

Most of our assets and liabilities are monetary in nature and subject us to significant risks from changes in interest rates. Our profitability depends to a large extent on our net interest income, and changes in interest rates can impact our net interest income as well as the valuation of our assets and liabilities.

Our current one-year interest rate sensitivity position is asset sensitive, meaning that an immediate or gradual increase in interest rates would likely have a positive cumulative impact on Regions’ twelve-month net interest income. Alternatively, an immediate or gradual decrease in rates over a twelve-month period would likely have a negative impact on twelve-month net interest income. However, like most financial institutions, our results of operations are affected by changes in interest rates and our ability to manage interest rate risks. Changes in market interest rates, or changes in the relationships between short-term and long-term market interest rates, or changes in the relationships between different interest rate indices, can affect the interest rates charged on interest-earning assets differently than the interest rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. This difference could result in an increase in interest expense relative to interest income, or a decrease in our interest rate spread. For a more detailed discussion of these risks and our management strategies for these risks, see the “Net Interest Income and Margin” and “Market Risk – Interest Rate Risk” sections of Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Our net interest margin depends on many factors that are partly or completely out of our control, including competition, federal economic monetary and fiscal policies, and general economic conditions. Despite our strategies to manage interest rate risks, changes in interest rates can still have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Additionally, Regions’ portfolio segments, particularly investor real estate, include products where terms are tied to benchmark interest rates, such as LIBOR. An increasing interest rate environment would increase debt service requirements for borrowers with these types of products. Such increases may impact the borrowers’ ability to pay as contractually obligated.

The performance of our investment portfolio is subject to fluctuations due to changes in interest rates and market conditions.

Changes in interest rates can negatively affect the performance of most of our investments. Interest rate volatility can reduce unrealized gains or create unrealized losses in our portfolios. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors, including governmental monetary policies, domestic and international economic and political conditions, and other factors beyond our control. Fluctuations in interest rates affect our returns on, and the market value of, our investment securities.

The fair market value of the securities in our portfolio and the investment income from these securities also fluctuate depending on general economic and market conditions. In addition, actual net investment income and cash flows from investments that carry prepayment risk, such as mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities, may differ from those anticipated at the time of investment as a result of interest rate fluctuations. See the “Securities” section of Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Hurricanes and other weather-related events, as well as man-made disasters, could cause a disruption in our operations or other consequences that could have an adverse impact on our results of operations.

A significant portion of our operations are located in the areas bordering the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, regions that are susceptible to hurricanes. Such weather events can cause disruption to our operations and could have a material adverse effect on our overall results of operations. We maintain hurricane insurance, including coverage for lost profits and extra expense; however, there is no insurance against the disruption to the markets that we serve that a catastrophic hurricane could produce. Further, a hurricane in any of our market areas could adversely impact the ability of borrowers to timely repay their loans and may adversely

 

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impact the value of any collateral held by us. Man-made disasters and other events connected with the Gulf of Mexico or Atlantic Ocean, such as the recent Gulf oil spill, could have similar effects. Some of the states in which we operate have in recent years experienced extreme droughts. The severity and impact of future hurricanes, droughts and other weather-related events are difficult to predict and may be exacerbated by global climate change. The effects of past or future hurricanes, droughts and other weather-related events could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Industry competition may have an adverse effect on our success.

Our profitability depends on our ability to compete successfully. We operate in a highly competitive environment. Certain of our competitors are larger and have more resources than we do. In our market areas, we face competition from other commercial banks, savings and loan associations, credit unions, internet banks, finance companies, mutual funds, insurance companies, brokerage and investment banking firms, and other financial intermediaries that offer similar services. Some of our non-bank competitors are not subject to the same extensive regulations that govern Regions or Regions Bank and may have greater flexibility in competing for business. Regions expects competition to intensify among financial services companies due to the recent consolidation of certain competing financial institutions and the conversion of certain investment banks to bank holding companies. Additionally, the Dodd-Frank Act eliminated certain restrictions on the ability of banking institutions to open branches across state lines, a change which may also cause competition among financial services companies to intensify. Should competition in the financial services industry intensify, Regions’ ability to market its products and services and to retain or compete for new business may be adversely affected. Consequently, our business, financial condition or results of operations may also be adversely affected.

Maintaining or increasing market share may depend on market acceptance and regulatory approval of new products and services.

Our success depends, in part, on the ability to adapt products and services to evolving industry standards. There is increasing pressure to provide products and services at lower prices. This can reduce net interest income and noninterest income from fee-based products and services. In addition, the widespread adoption of new technologies could require us to make substantial capital expenditures to modify or adapt existing products and services or develop new products and services. We may not be successful in introducing new products and services in response to industry trends or developments in technology, or those new products may not achieve market acceptance. As a result, we could lose business, be forced to price products and services on less advantageous terms to retain or attract clients, or be subject to cost increases. As a result, our business, financial condition or results of operations may be adversely affected.

Consumers may decide not to use banks to complete their financial transactions.

Technology and other changes are allowing parties to use alternative methods to complete financial transactions that historically have involved banks. For example, consumers can now maintain funds in brokerage accounts or mutual funds that would have historically been held as bank deposits. Consumers can also complete transactions such as paying bills or transferring funds directly without the assistance of banks. The process of eliminating banks as intermediaries, known as “disintermediation,” could result in the loss of fee income, as well as the loss of customer deposits and the related income generated from those deposits. Any resulting loss of deposits could impact our cost of funding, and, together with any lost income generated by this loss of business, could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

The soundness of other financial institutions could adversely affect us.

Our ability to engage in routine funding transactions could be adversely affected by the actions and commercial soundness of other financial institutions. Financial services companies are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty or other relationships. We have exposure to many different industries and counterparties, and we routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry,

 

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including brokers and dealers, commercial banks, investment banks, mutual and hedge funds, and other institutional clients. As a result, defaults by, or even rumors or questions about, one or more financial services companies, or the financial services industry generally, have led to market-wide liquidity problems and could lead to losses or defaults by us or by other institutions. Many of these transactions expose us to credit risk in the event of default of our counterparty or client. In addition, our credit risk may be exacerbated if the collateral held by us cannot be realized or is liquidated at prices not sufficient to recover the full amount of the loan or derivative exposure due us. There is no assurance that any such losses would not materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Changes in the policies of monetary authorities and other government action could adversely affect our profitability.

The results of operations of Regions are affected by credit policies of monetary authorities, particularly the Federal Reserve. The instruments of monetary policy employed by the Federal Reserve include open-market operations in U.S. government securities, changes in the discount rate or the federal funds rate on bank borrowings, and changes in reserve requirements against bank deposits. In view of changing conditions in the national economy and in the money markets, we cannot predict possible future changes in interest rates, deposit levels, and loan demand on our business and earnings. Furthermore, ongoing military operations around the world, including those in response to terrorist attacks, may result in currency fluctuations, exchange controls, market disruption and other adverse effects, any of which may negatively impact our business, financial condition or results of operations.

We need to stay current on technological changes in order to compete and meet customer demands.

The financial services market, including banking services, is undergoing rapid changes with frequent introductions of new technology-driven products and services. In addition to better serving customers, the effective use of technology increases efficiency and may enable us to reduce costs. Our future success may depend, in part, on our ability to use technology to provide products and services that provide convenience to customers and to create additional efficiencies in our operations. Some of our competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements. We may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services or be successful in marketing these products and services to our customers. As a result, our ability to effectively compete to retain or acquire new business may be impaired, and our business, financial condition or results of operations, may be adversely affected.

We are subject to a variety of operational risks, including reputational risk, legal risk and compliance risk, and the risk of fraud or theft by employees or outsiders, which may adversely affect our business and results of operations.

We are exposed to many types of operational risks, including reputational risk, legal and compliance risk, the risk of fraud or theft by employees or outsiders, and unauthorized transactions by employees or operational errors, including clerical or record-keeping errors or those resulting from faulty or disabled computer or telecommunications systems. Negative public opinion can result from our actual or alleged conduct in any number of activities, including lending practices, corporate governance and acquisitions and from actions taken by government regulators and community organizations in response to those activities. Negative public opinion can adversely affect our ability to attract and keep customers and can expose us to litigation and regulatory action. Actual or alleged conduct by Regions can result in negative public opinion about our other business. Negative public opinion could also affect our credit ratings, which are important to our access to unsecured wholesale borrowings.

If personal, non-public, confidential or proprietary information of customers in our possession were to be mishandled or misused, we could suffer significant regulatory consequences, reputational damage and financial loss. Such mishandling or misuse could include, for example, if such information were erroneously provided to

 

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parties who are not permitted to have the information, either by fault of our systems, employees, or counterparties, or where such information is intercepted or otherwise inappropriately taken by third parties.

Because the nature of the financial services business involves a high volume of transactions, certain errors may be repeated or compounded before they are discovered and successfully rectified. Our necessary dependence upon automated systems to record and process transactions and our large transaction volume may further increase the risk that technical flaws or employee tampering or manipulation of those systems will result in losses that are difficult to detect. We also may be subject to disruptions of our operating systems arising from events that are wholly or partially beyond our control (for example, computer viruses or electrical or telecommunications outages, or natural disasters, disease pandemics or other damage to property or physical assets) which may give rise to disruption of service to customers and to financial loss or liability. We are further exposed to the risk that our external vendors may be unable to fulfill their contractual obligations (or will be subject to the same risk of fraud or operational errors by their respective employees as we are) and to the risk that we (or our vendors’) business continuity and data security systems prove to be inadequate. The occurrence of any of these risks could result in a diminished ability of us to operate our business (for example, by requiring us to expend significant resources to correct the defect), as well as potential liability to clients, reputational damage and regulatory intervention, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations, perhaps materially.

We rely on other companies to provide key components of our business infrastructure.

Third parties provide key components of our business operations such as data processing, recording and monitoring transactions, online banking interfaces and services, Internet connections and network access. While we have selected these third party vendors carefully, we do not control their actions. Any problems caused by these third parties, including those resulting from disruptions in communication services provided by a vendor, failure of a vendor to handle current or higher volumes, failure of a vendor to provide services for any reason or poor performance of services, could adversely affect our ability to deliver products and services to our customers and otherwise conduct our business. Financial or operational difficulties of a third party vendor could also hurt our operations if those difficulties interfere with the vendor’s ability to serve us. Replacing these third party vendors could also create significant delay and expense. Accordingly, use of such third parties creates an unavoidable inherent risk to our business operations.

Our customers may pursue alternatives to bank deposits which could force us to rely on relatively more expensive sources of funding.

An outflow of deposits because customers seek investments with higher yields or greater financial stability, prefer to do business with our competitors, or otherwise could force us to rely more heavily on borrowings and other sources of funding to fund our business and meet withdrawal demands, adversely affecting our net interest margin. We may also be forced, as a result of any outflow of deposits, to rely more heavily on equity to fund our business, resulting in greater dilution of our existing shareholders. As a result, our business, financial condition or results of operations may be adversely affected.

Our reported financial results depend on management’s selection of accounting methods and certain assumptions and estimates.

Our accounting policies and assumptions are fundamental to our reported financial condition and results of operations. Our management must exercise judgment in selecting and applying many of these accounting policies and methods so they comply with generally accepted accounting principles and reflect management’s judgment of the most appropriate manner to report our financial condition and results. In some cases, management must select the accounting policy or method to apply from two or more alternatives, any of which may be reasonable under the circumstances, yet may result in our reporting materially different results than would have been reported under a different alternative.

 

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Certain accounting policies are critical to presenting our reported financial condition and results. They require management to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments about matters that are uncertain. Materially different amounts could be reported under different conditions or using different assumptions or estimates. These critical accounting policies include: the allowance for credit losses; intangible assets; mortgage servicing rights; and income taxes. Because of the uncertainty of estimates involved in these matters, we may be required to do one or more of the following: significantly increase the allowance for credit losses and/or sustain credit losses that are significantly higher than the reserve provided; recognize significant impairment on our goodwill, other intangible assets and deferred tax asset balances; or significantly increase our accrued income taxes.

Changes in our accounting policies or in accounting standards could materially affect how we report our financial results and condition.

From time to time, the Financial Accounting Standards Board and SEC change the financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the preparation of our financial statements. These changes can be hard to predict and can materially impact how we record and report our financial condition and results of operations. In some cases, we could be required to apply a new or revised standard retroactively, resulting in us restating prior period financial statements.

We depend on the accuracy and completeness of information about clients and counterparties.

In deciding whether to extend credit or enter into other transactions with clients and counterparties, we may rely on information furnished by or on behalf of clients and counterparties, including financial statements and other financial information. We also may rely on representations of clients and counterparties as to the accuracy and completeness of that information and, with respect to financial statements, on reports of independent auditors if made available. If this information is inaccurate, we may be subject to regulatory action, reputational harm or other adverse effects on the operation of our business, our financial condition and our results of operations.

We are exposed to risk of environmental liability when we take title to property.

In the course of our business, we may foreclose on and take title to real estate. As a result, we could be subject to environmental liabilities with respect to these properties. We may be held liable to a governmental entity or to third parties for property damage, personal injury, investigation and clean-up costs incurred by these parties in connection with environmental contamination or may be required to investigate or clean up hazardous or toxic substances or chemical releases at a property. The costs associated with investigation or remediation activities could be substantial. In addition, if we are the owner or former owner of a contaminated site, we may be subject to common law claims by third parties based on damages and costs resulting from environmental contamination emanating from the property. If we become subject to significant environmental liabilities, our financial condition or results of operations could be adversely affected.

Our information systems may experience an interruption or security breach.

We rely heavily on communications and information systems to conduct our business. Any failure, interruption or breach in security of these systems could result in failures or disruptions in our customer relationship management, general ledger, deposit, loan and other systems. While we have policies and procedures designed to prevent or limit the effect of the possible failure, interruption or security breach of our information systems, there can be no assurance that any such failure, interruption or security breach will not occur or, if they do occur, that they will be adequately addressed. The occurrence of any failure, interruption or security breach of our information systems could damage our reputation, result in a loss of customer business, subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny, or expose us to civil litigation and possible financial liability.

 

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The market price of shares of our common stock will fluctuate.

The market price of our common stock could be subject to significant fluctuations due to a change in sentiment in the market regarding our operations or business prospects. Such risks may be affected by:

 

   

Operating results that vary from the expectations of management, securities analysts and investors;

 

   

Developments in our business or in the financial sector generally;

 

   

Regulatory changes affecting our industry generally or our business and operations;

 

   

The operating and securities price performance of companies that investors consider to be comparable to us;

 

   

Announcements of strategic developments, acquisitions and other material events by us or our competitors;

 

   

Expectations of or actual equity dilution;

 

   

Changes in the credit, mortgage and real estate markets, including the markets for mortgage-related securities; and

 

   

Changes in global financial markets and global economies and general market conditions, such as interest or foreign exchange rates, stock, commodity, credit or asset valuations or volatility.

Stock markets in general and our common stock in particular have shown considerable volatility in the recent past. The market price of our common stock may continue to be subject to similar market fluctuations that may be unrelated to our operating performance or prospects. Increased volatility could result in a decline in the market price of our common stock.

We may not pay dividends on your common stock.

Holders of shares of our common stock are only entitled to receive such dividends as our board of directors may declare out of funds legally available for such payments. Although we have historically declared cash dividends on our common stock, we are not required to do so and may reduce or eliminate our common stock dividend in the future. This could adversely affect the market price of our common stock. Also, participation in the CPP limits our ability to increase our dividend or to repurchase our common stock for so long as any securities issued under such program remain outstanding, as discussed in greater detail in the “Restrictions on Dividends and Repurchase of Stock” section of Item 5. “Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Regions has reduced its quarterly dividend to $0.01 per share and does not expect to increase its quarterly dividend above such level for the foreseeable future.

Regions is also subject to statutory and regulatory limitations on our ability to pay dividends on our common stock. For example, it is the policy of the Federal Reserve that bank holding companies should generally pay dividends on common stock only out of earnings, and only if prospective earnings retention is consistent with the organization’s expected future needs, asset quality, and financial condition. Recently issued temporary guidance from the Federal Reserve states that our dividend policies will be assessed, among other things, against our ability to achieve Basel III capital ratio requirements. Moreover, the Federal Reserve will closely scrutinize any dividend payout ratios exceeding 30 percent of after-tax net income.

Anti-takeover laws and certain agreements and charter provisions may adversely affect share value.

Certain provisions of state and federal law and our certificate of incorporation may make it more difficult for someone to acquire control of us without our Board of Directors’ approval. Under federal law, subject to certain exemptions, a person, entity or group must notify the federal banking agencies before acquiring control of a bank holding company. Acquisition of 10 percent or more of any class of voting stock of a bank holding company or state member bank, including shares of our common stock, creates a rebuttable presumption that the

 

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acquirer “controls” the bank holding company or state member bank. Also, as noted under the “Supervision and Regulation” section of Item 1. of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, a bank holding company must obtain the prior approval of the Federal Reserve before, among other things, acquiring direct or indirect ownership or control of more than 5 percent of the voting shares of any bank, including Regions Bank. There also are provisions in our certificate of incorporation that may be used to delay or block a takeover attempt. As a result, these statutory provisions and provisions in our certificate of incorporation could result in Regions being less attractive to a potential acquirer.

Future issuances of additional equity securities could result in dilution of your ownership.

We may determine from time to time to issue additional equity securities to raise additional capital, support growth, or to make acquisitions. Further, we may issue stock options or other stock grants to retain and motivate our employees. These issuances of our securities could dilute the voting and economic interests of our existing shareholders.

Future equity offerings could impair the value of our deferred tax assets and adversely affect our capital ratios.

Our ability to utilize our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income may be significantly limited if we experience an “ownership change” as defined in section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). In general, an ownership change will occur if there is a cumulative change in our ownership by “5 percent shareholders” (as defined in the Code) that exceeds 50 percent (as defined in the Code) over a rolling three-year period. Any corporation experiencing an ownership change will generally be subject to an annual limitation on its deferred tax assets prior to the ownership change equal to the value of such corporation immediately before the ownership change, multiplied by the long-term tax-exempt rate (subject to certain adjustments). The annual limitation would be increased each year to the extent that there is an unused limitation in a prior year. The limitation arising from an ownership change under section 382 of the Code on our ability to utilize our deferred tax assets would depend on the value of Regions’ stock at the time of the ownership change. As a result, future investments by new or existing “5 percent shareholders” or issuances of common equity could materially increase the risk that we could experience an ownership change in the future. If we were to experience an ownership change under section 382 of the Code for any reason, the value of our deferred tax assets may be impaired and may cause a decrease in our financial position, results of operations and regulatory capital ratios.

 

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

 

Item 2. Properties

Regions’ corporate headquarters occupy the main banking facility of Regions Bank, located at 1900 Fifth Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203.

At December 31, 2010, Regions Bank, Regions’ banking subsidiary, operated 1,772 banking offices. Regions provides investment banking and brokerage services from over 321 offices of Morgan Keegan. At December 31, 2010, there were no significant encumbrances on the offices, equipment and other operational facilities owned by Regions and its subsidiaries.

See Item 1. “Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a list of the states in which Regions Bank branches and Morgan Keegan’s offices are located.

 

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Item 3. Legal Proceedings

Information required by this item is set forth in Note 23 “Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees” in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements which are included in Item 8. of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

Information concerning the Executive Officers of Regions is set forth under Item 10. “Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

Item 4. (Removed and Reserved).

 

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PART II

 

Item 5. Market For Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Regions’ common stock, par value $.01 per share, is listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol RF. Quarterly high and low sales prices of and cash dividends declared on Regions’ common stock are set forth in Table 28 “Quarterly Results of Operations” of “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”, which is included in Item 7. of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. As of February 15, 2011, there were 76,455 holders of record of Regions’ common stock (including participants in the Computershare Investment Plan for Regions Financial Corporation).

Restrictions on the ability of Regions Bank to transfer funds to Regions at December 31, 2010, are set forth in Note 13 “Regulatory Capital Requirements and Restrictions” to the consolidated financial statements, which are included in Item 8. of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. A discussion of certain limitations on the ability of Regions Bank to pay dividends to Regions and the ability of Regions to pay dividends on its common stock is set forth in Item 1. “Business” under the heading “Supervision and Regulation—Payment of Dividends” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The following table presents information regarding issuer purchases of equity securities during the fourth quarter of 2010.

 

Period

   Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
     Average
Price
Paid Per
Share
     Total Number of
Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
     Maximum Number
of Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans or
Programs
 

October 1, 2010—October 31, 2010

     —         $ —           —           23,072,300   

November 1, 2010—November 30, 2010

     —           —           —           23,072,300   

December 1, 2010—December 31, 2010

     —           —           —           23,072,300   
                       

Total

      $ —              23,072,300   
                       

On January 18, 2007, Regions’ Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of 50 million shares of Regions’ common stock through open market or privately negotiated transactions and announced the authorization of this repurchase. As indicated in the table above, approximately 23.1 million shares remain available for repurchase under the existing plan. As discussed in the “Supervision and Regulation” section of Item 1. “Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the Company’s ability to repurchase its common stock is limited by the terms of the Purchase Agreement between Regions and the U.S. Treasury. Under the CPP, prior to the earlier of (i) November 14, 2011, or (ii) the date on which the Series A Preferred Stock is redeemed in whole or the U.S. Treasury has transferred all of the Series A Preferred Stock to unaffiliated third parties, the consent of the U.S. Treasury is required to repurchase any shares of common stock except in connection with benefit plans in the ordinary course of business and certain other limited exceptions.

Restrictions on Dividends and Repurchase of Stock

Holders of Regions common stock are only entitled to receive such dividends as Regions’ board of directors may declare out of funds legally available for such payments. Furthermore, holders of Regions common stock are subject to the prior dividend rights of any holders of Regions preferred stock then outstanding. As of December 31, 2010, there were 3,500,000 shares of Regions’ Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock Series A (the “Series A Preferred Stock”) with liquidation amount of $1,000 per share, issued and outstanding. Under the terms of the Series A Preferred Stock, Regions’ ability to declare and pay dividends on or repurchase Regions common stock will be subject to restrictions in the event Regions fails to declare and pay (or set aside for payment) full dividends on the Series A Preferred Stock.

 

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As long as the Series A Preferred Stock is outstanding, dividend payments and repurchases or redemptions relating to certain equity securities, including Regions common stock, are prohibited until all accrued and unpaid dividends are paid on such preferred stock, subject to certain limited exceptions. In addition, prior to November 14, 2011, unless Regions has redeemed all of the Series A Preferred Stock or the U.S. Treasury has transferred all of the Series A Preferred Stock to third parties, the consent of the U.S. Treasury will be required for Regions to, among other things, increase its common stock dividend above $0.10 except in limited circumstances. Regions has reduced its quarterly common stock dividend to $0.01 per share and does not expect to increase its quarterly dividend above such level for the foreseeable future. Also, Regions is a bank holding company, and its ability to declare and pay dividends is dependent on certain federal regulatory considerations, including the guidelines of the Federal Reserve regarding capital adequacy and dividends.

In addition, the terms of Regions’ outstanding junior subordinated debt securities prohibit it from declaring or paying any dividends or distributions on Regions’ capital stock, including its common stock, or purchasing, acquiring, or making a liquidation payment on such stock, if Regions has given notice of its election to defer interest payments but the related deferral period has not yet commenced or a deferral period is continuing.

 

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PERFORMANCE GRAPH

Set forth below is a graph comparing the yearly percentage change in the cumulative total return of Regions’ common stock against the cumulative total return of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P Banks Index for the past five years. This presentation assumes that the value of the investment in Regions’ common stock and in each index was $100 and that all dividends were reinvested.

LOGO

 

     Cumulative Total Return  
     12/31/2005      12/31/2006      12/31/2007      12/31/2008      12/31/2009      12/31/2010  

Regions

   $ 100.00       $ 114.92       $ 76.26       $ 27.47       $ 18.84       $ 25.07   

S&P 500 Index

     100.00         115.79         122.16         76.96         97.33         111.99   

S&P Banks Index

     100.00         115.64         89.40         56.62         52.81         63.96   

 

Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The information required by Item 6. is set forth in Table 1 “Financial Highlights” of “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”, which is included in Item 7. of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

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Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

INTRODUCTION

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Management believes the following points summarize several of the most relevant items necessary for an understanding of the financial aspects of Regions Financial Corporation’s (“Regions” or “the Company”) business, particularly regarding its 2010 results. Cross references to more detailed information regarding each topic within Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) and the consolidated financial statements are included. This summary is intended to assist in understanding the information provided, but should be read in conjunction with the entire MD&A and consolidated financial statements, as well as the other sections of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

   

Credit—The distressed economy has increased the risk of default for many loan types. Regions entered 2008 with a concentration in investor real estate products in its Southeastern footprint. Loans extended to real estate developers or investors where repayment depends on sales of real estate, especially those loans secured by land, single-family developments and condominiums, experienced the most credit pressure. Income producing investor real estate, including loans secured by multi-family and retail developments, also came under pressure. Additionally, the risk profile of home equity products, particularly second lien mortgages in Florida, increased as real estate values fell and unemployment increased in that state. In 2010, credit risk began to moderate. However, an elevated provision for loan losses of $2.9 billion was the catalyst for the net loss available to common shareholders of $763 million in 2010. Internally criticized loans and total non-accrual loans while still elevated, migrated in favorable directions during 2010. Management is encouraged by these trends and is cautiously optimistic that credit metrics will continue to trend favorably. However, unemployment remains high throughout Regions’ footprint, property valuations continue to be pressured, and credit costs are expected to remain elevated, as compared to historical levels. Management has therefore maintained the allowance for credit losses at $3.3 billion to cover losses inherent in the loan portfolio. For more information, refer to the following additional sections within this Form 10-K:

 

   

2010 Overview discussion in MD&A

 

   

Discussion of Allowance for Credit Losses within the Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates section of MD&A

 

   

Other Real Estate Owned discussion within the Non-Interest Expense section of MD&A

 

   

Loans discussion within the Balance Sheet Analysis section of MD&A

 

   

Credit Risk section of MD&A

 

   

Note 5 “Allowance for Credit Losses” to the consolidated financial statements

 

   

Liquidity—At the end of 2010, Regions had interest-bearing deposits in other banks of $4.9 billion, which primarily consist of deposits at the Federal Reserve. Additionally, the loan-to-deposit ratio was 88 percent. Regions’ policy is to maintain a sufficient level of funding to meet projected cash needs, including all debt service, dividends, and maturities for the subsequent two years at the parent company and for acceptable periods at the bank and other affiliates. The Company’s funding and contingency planning does not rely on unsecured sources, although these markets are periodically tested to ensure they are available. Maturities of loans and securities provide a constant flow of funds available for cash needs. At December 31, 2010, the Company’s borrowing capacity with the Federal Reserve Discount Window was $16.6 billion based on available collateral. Borrowing capacity with the FHLB was $1.2 billion based on available collateral at the same date. The Company also has a bank note program and has issued senior and subordinated notes at the parent company level. Management believes the

 

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Company’s liquidity position is solid and appropriate. For more information, refer to the following additional sections within this Form 10-K:

 

   

Discussion of Short-Term Borrowings within the Balance Sheet Analysis section of MD&A

 

   

Discussion of Long-Term Borrowings within the Balance Sheet Analysis section of MD&A

 

   

Ratings section of MD&A

 

   

Liquidity Risk section of MD&A

 

   

Note 11 “Short-Term Borrowings” to the consolidated financial statements

 

   

Note 12 “Long-Term Borrowings” to the consolidated financial statements

 

   

Note 23 “Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees” to the consolidated financial statements

 

   

Interest Rate Risk—In the fourth quarter of 2010, the net interest margin expanded to 3.00 percent, largely due to a mix shift from time deposits to lower cost deposit products. Deposit costs decreased from 1.35 percent in 2009 to 0.78 percent in 2010, and stood at 0.64 percent for the fourth quarter of 2010. However, the margin continues to be negatively affected by a persistently low interest rate environment, non-performing asset levels, and maintenance of conservative balance sheet liquidity levels. Additionally, management expects the net interest margin to be pressured in the near term due in part to the recent portfolio rebalancing activity undertaken to further the Company’s capital and liquidity goals. Over the longer term, the eventual rise of benchmark interest rates will have a favorable impact on the net interest margin. The Company entered into an additional series of interest rate swaps to mitigate the risk to interest income if rates continue to remain low in the near term. These swaps offer this protection while reducing asset sensitivity through 2012. Management's 2009 decision to de-risk the securities portfolio also impacts the net interest margin. At December 31, 2010, the securities portfolio almost exclusively consisted of agency guaranteed residential mortgage-backed securities. Management expects to achieve a higher margin over the long term as excess liquidity is reinvested, the securities portfolio is repositioned, disciplined loan pricing is emphasized, the composition of the loan portfolio is migrated toward more consumer products and an advantageous deposit mix is maintained. For more information, refer to the following additional sections within this Form 10-K:

 

   

2010 Overview discussion in MD&A

 

   

Net Interest Income and Margin section of MD&A

 

   

Interest Rate Risk section of MD&A

 

   

Regulatory Capital—Regions’ ability to maintain appropriate levels of capital is critical to its safety and soundness. At December 31, 2010, Regions’ Tier 1 capital and Tier 1 common ratios were 12.40 percent and 7.85 percent, respectively. On a Basel III pro forma basis, the corresponding Basel III ratios, based on Regions’ current understanding of the guidelines, are 7.62 percent and 11.35 percent, respectively, above the respective Basel III minimums of 7 percent and 8.5 percent. Regions’ capital planning process is executed by management, overseen by the Board of Directors, and supervised by banking regulators. The process utilizes a base case, multiple adverse cases and a growth forecast. For more information, refer to the following additional sections within this Form 10-K:

 

   

2010 Overview discussion in MD&A

 

   

Bank Regulatory Capital Requirements section of MD&A

 

   

Note 13 “Regulatory Capital Requirements and Restrictions” to the consolidated financial statements

 

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GENERAL

The following discussion and financial information is presented to aid in understanding Regions financial position and results of operations. The emphasis of this discussion will be on the years 2010, 2009 and 2008; in addition, financial information for prior years will also be presented when appropriate. Certain amounts in prior year presentations have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation, except as otherwise noted.

Regions’ profitability, like that of many other financial institutions, is dependent on its ability to generate revenue from net interest income and non-interest income sources. Net interest income is the difference between the interest income Regions receives on interest-earning assets, such as loans and securities, and the interest expense Regions pays on interest-bearing liabilities, principally deposits and borrowings. Regions’ net interest income is impacted by the size and mix of its balance sheet components and the interest rate spread between interest earned on its assets and interest paid on its liabilities. Non-interest income includes fees from service charges on deposit accounts, brokerage, investment banking, capital markets, and trust activities, mortgage servicing and secondary marketing, insurance activities, and other customer services which Regions provides. Results of operations are also affected by the provision for loan losses and non-interest expenses such as salaries and employee benefits, occupancy, professional fees, FDIC insurance, other real estate owned and other operating expenses, including income taxes. In 2010, Regions’ non-interest expense included a $200 million regulatory charge related to Morgan Keegan & Company, Inc. (“Morgan Keegan”). In 2008, Regions’ non-interest expense included a non-cash $6.0 billion goodwill impairment charge.

Economic conditions, competition, new legislation and related rules impacting regulation of the financial services industry and the monetary and fiscal policies of the Federal government significantly affect financial institutions, including Regions. Lending and deposit activities and fee income generation are influenced by levels of business spending and investment, consumer income, consumer spending and savings, capital market activities, and competition among financial institutions, as well as customer preferences, interest rate conditions and prevailing market rates on competing products in Regions’ market areas.

Regions’ business strategy has been and continues to be focused on providing a competitive mix of products and services, delivering quality customer service and maintaining a branch distribution network with offices in convenient locations.

Acquisitions

The acquisitions of banks and other financial services companies have historically contributed significantly to Regions’ growth. The acquisitions of other financial services companies have also allowed Regions to better diversify its revenue stream and to offer additional products and services to its customers. From time to time, Regions evaluates potential bank and non-bank acquisition candidates.

In February, 2009, Regions acquired from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) approximately $285 million in deposits from a failed bank headquartered in Henry County, Georgia. Under the terms of the agreement with the FDIC, Regions assumed operations of the bank’s four branches and provides banking services to its former customers.

In September, 2008, Regions acquired from the FDIC approximately $900 million of deposits, primarily time deposits, from a failed bank headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia. Under the terms of the agreement with the FDIC, Regions assumed operations of the bank’s four branches and provides banking services to its former customers.

On January 1, 2008, Regions Insurance Group, Inc., a subsidiary of Regions Financial Corporation, acquired certain assets of Barksdale Bonding and Insurance, Inc., a multi-line insurance agency headquartered in Jackson, Mississippi. In addition, in December 2008, Morgan Keegan acquired Revolution Partners, LLC, a Boston-based investment banking boutique specializing in mergers and acquisitions and private capital advisory services for the technology industry.

 

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During 2007, Regions acquired two financial services entities. On January 2, 2007, Regions Insurance Group, Inc. acquired certain assets of Miles & Finch, Inc., a multi-line insurance agency headquartered in Kokomo, Indiana. On June 15, 2007, Morgan Keegan acquired Shattuck Hammond Partners LLC, an investment banking and financial advisory firm headquartered in New York, New York.

On November 4, 2006, Regions merged with AmSouth Bancorporation (“AmSouth”), headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama. In the stock-for-stock merger, 0.7974 shares of Regions were exchanged, on a tax-free basis, for each share of AmSouth common stock. AmSouth had total assets of approximately $58 billion (including goodwill) and operated in six states at the time of the merger. This transaction was accounted for as a purchase of 100 percent of the voting interests of AmSouth by Regions and, accordingly, financial results for periods prior to November 4, 2006 have not been restated.

Regions incurred approximately $822 million in one-time pre-tax merger-related costs to bring the two companies together. Regions recorded $185 million of such costs in goodwill during 2006. This amount was subsequently adjusted down by $3 million in 2007. The majority of merger costs flowed directly through the statements of operations. These included $201 million, $351 million, and $89 million in pre-tax merger expenses during 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively. No merger expenses related to the AmSouth transaction were recorded after the third quarter of 2008.

Dispositions

During the first quarter of 2007, through sales to three separate buyers, Regions completed the divestiture of 52 former AmSouth branches having approximately $2.7 billion in deposits and $1.7 billion in loans. These divestitures were required in markets where the merger may have affected competition.

On March 30, 2007, Regions sold its wholly-owned non-conforming mortgage origination subsidiary, EquiFirst Corporation (“EquiFirst”) for an initial sales price of approximately $76 million. The business related to EquiFirst has been accounted for as discontinued operations and the results are presented separately on the consolidated statements of operations for all periods presented. Resolution of the sales price was completed in October 2008, and resulted in an after-tax loss of approximately $10 million. As of December 31, 2010, Regions has approximately $51 million in book value of “sub-prime” loans retained from the disposition of EquiFirst in 2007, down from the year-end 2009 balance of $61 million. Management has considered the credit quality of these loans in the calculation of the allowance for loan losses.

Business Segments

Regions provides traditional commercial, retail and mortgage banking services, as well as other financial services in the fields of investment banking, asset management, trust, mutual funds, securities brokerage, insurance and other specialty financing. Regions carries out its strategies and derives its profitability from the following business segments:

Banking/Treasury

Regions’ primary business is providing traditional commercial, retail and mortgage banking services to its customers. Regions’ banking subsidiary, Regions Bank, operates as an Alabama state-chartered bank with branch offices in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. The Treasury function includes the Company’s securities portfolio and other wholesale funding activities. In 2010, Regions’ banking and treasury operations reported a loss of $433 million, as credit and credit-related costs continued to pressure this business segment.

 

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Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust

Regions provides investment banking, brokerage and trust services in 321 offices of Morgan Keegan, a subsidiary of Regions and one of the largest investment firms based in the South. Its lines of business include private client, retail brokerage services, fixed-income capital markets, equity capital markets, trust, and asset management. In 2010, Morgan Keegan’s operations reported a loss of $116 million, which was driven by a $200 million regulatory charge.

Insurance

Regions provides insurance-related services through Regions Insurance Group, Inc., a subsidiary of Regions. Regions Insurance Group is one of the 25 largest insurance brokers in the country. The insurance segment includes all business associated with insurance coverage for various lines of personal and commercial insurance, such as property, casualty, life, health and accident insurance. The insurance segment also offers credit-related insurance products, such as term life, credit life, environmental, crop and mortgage insurance, as well as debt cancellation products to customers of Regions. Insurance activities contributed $10 million of net income in 2010.

Merger Charges and Discontinued Operations

The reportable segment designated Merger Charges and Discontinued Operations includes merger charges related to the AmSouth acquisition and the results of EquiFirst for the periods presented. These amounts are excluded from other reportable segments because management reviews the results of the other reportable segments excluding these items.

During 2010, minor reclassifications were made from the Banking/Treasury segment to the Insurance segment to more appropriately present management’s current view of the segments. Prior year disclosures have been adjusted to conform to the 2010 presentation. See Note 22 “Business Segment Information” to the consolidated financial statements for further information on Regions’ business segments.

 

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Table 1—Financial Highlights

 

    2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
    (In millions, except per share data)  

EARNINGS SUMMARY

         

Interest income

  $ 4,689      $ 5,332      $ 6,563      $ 8,074      $ 5,649   

Interest expense

    1,257        1,997        2,720        3,676        2,341   
                                       

Net interest income

    3,432        3,335        3,843        4,398        3,308   

Provision for loan losses

    2,863        3,541        2,057        555        142   
                                       

Net interest income (loss) after provision for loan losses

    569        (206     1,786        3,843        3,166   

Non-interest income

    3,531        3,755        3,073        2,856        2,030   

Non-interest expense

    4,985        4,751        10,792        4,660        3,204   
                                       

Income (loss) before income taxes from continuing operations

    (885     (1,202     (5,933     2,039        1,992   

Income tax expense (benefit)

    (346     (171     (348     646        619   
                                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations

    (539     (1,031     (5,585     1,393        1,373   
                                       

Income (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes

    —          —          (18     (217     (32

Income tax expense (benefit)

    —          —          (7     (75     (13
                                       

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

    —          —          (11     (142     (19
                                       

Net income (loss)

  $ (539   $ (1,031   $ (5,596   $ 1,251      $ 1,354   
                                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations available to common shareholders

  $ (763   $ (1,261   $ (5,611   $ 1,393      $ 1,373   
                                       

Net income (loss) available to common shareholders

  $ (763   $ (1,261   $ (5,622   $ 1,251      $ 1,354   
                                       

Earnings (loss) per common share from continuing operations—basic

  $ (0.62   $ (1.27   $ (8.07   $ 1.97      $ 2.74   

Earnings (loss) per common share from continuing operations—diluted

    (0.62     (1.27     (8.07     1.95        2.71   

Earnings (loss) per common share—basic

    (0.62     (1.27     (8.09     1.77        2.70   

Earnings (loss) per common share—diluted

    (0.62     (1.27     (8.09     1.76        2.67   

Return on average tangible common stockholders’ equity (non-GAAP)

    (9.29 )%      (14.92 )%      (71.29 )%      15.12     22.18

Return on average common stockholders’ equity

    (5.47     (8.82     (28.81     6.24        10.94   

Return on average total assets, (non-GAAP)

    (0.56     (0.88     (3.90     0.90        1.41   

BALANCE SHEET SUMMARY

         

At year-end

         

Loans, net of unearned income

  $ 82,864      $ 90,674      $ 97,419      $ 95,379      $ 94,551   

Assets

    132,351        142,318        146,248        141,042        143,369   

Deposits

    94,614        98,680        90,904        94,775        101,228   

Long-term debt

    13,190        18,464        19,231        11,325        8,643   

Stockholders’ equity

    16,734        17,881        16,813        19,823        20,701   

Average balances

         

Loans, net of unearned income

    86,660        94,523        97,601        94,372        64,766   

Assets

    135,955        142,759        143,947        138,757        95,800   

Deposits

    96,489        94,612        90,077        95,725        67,466   

Long-term debt

    15,547        18,588        13,510        9,698        6,856   

Stockholders’ equity

    17,444        17,773        19,939        20,036        12,369   

SELECTED RATIOS

         

Tangible common stockholders’ equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP)

    6.04     6.22     5.43     6.13     6.81

Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of loans, net of unearned income

    3.84        3.43        1.87        1.39        1.12   

Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of loans, net of unearned income

    3.93        3.52        1.95        1.45        1.17   

Efficiency Ratio (non-GAAP)

    71.83        72.08        64.97        58.83        56.44   

Tier 1 common (non-GAAP)

    7.85        7.15        6.57        NM        NM   

Tier 1 capital

    12.40        11.54        10.38        7.29        8.07   

Total capital

    16.35        15.78        14.64        11.25        11.54   

COMMON STOCK DATA

         

Cash dividends declared per common share

  $ 0.04      $ 0.13      $ 0.96      $ 1.46      $ 1.40   

Stockholders’ common equity per share

    10.62        11.97        19.53        28.58        28.36   

Market value at year end

    7.00        5.29        7.96        23.65        37.40   

Market price range:

         

High

    9.33        9.07        25.84        38.17        39.15   

Low

    5.12        2.35        6.41        22.84        32.37   

Total trading volume

    6,381        8,747        3,411        912        301   

Dividend payout ratio

    NM        NM        NM        82.49        51.85   

Shareholders of record at year-end (actual)

    76,996        81,166        83,600        85,060        84,877   

Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding

         

Basic

    1,227        989        695        708        502   

Diluted

    1,227        989        695        713        507   

 

(1) Beginning in 2010, tangible ratios are computed net of deferred taxes associated with intangible assets. Prior periods have been revised to conform with current presentation.
(2) NM—Not meaningful

 

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2010 OVERVIEW

Regions reported a net loss available to common shareholders of $763 million or $0.62 per diluted common share in 2010. Significant drivers of 2010 results include an elevated provision for loan losses and other real estate expenses, as well as a $200 million regulatory charge related to Morgan Keegan. These items were partially offset by higher net interest income.

Net interest income was $3.4 billion in 2010 compared to $3.3 billion in 2009. The net interest margin (taxable-equivalent basis) was 2.90 percent in 2010, compared to 2.67 percent during 2009. The margin improvement was driven primarily by a decrease of 60 basis points in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities, while being partially offset by a 30 basis point decline in the overall yield on interest earning assets. This dynamic reflected efforts to improve deposit costs and pricing on loans, while managing the challenges posed by a low interest rate environment. Long-term interest rates in particular remained low in 2010, pressuring yields on fixed-rate loan and securities portfolios, and contributed to the decline in the yield on taxable securities from 4.78 percent in 2009 to 3.66 percent in 2010. The overall costs of deposits improved from 1.35 percent in 2009 to 0.78 percent in 2010, although short-term interest rates (e.g. Fed Funds) remained relatively stable. The product mix of deposits improved as well, as declines in higher cost certificates of deposits accompanied increases in other low cost checking, savings and money market products.

Although the net interest margin increased in 2010, the factors that have pressured it are likely to persist, including those directly and indirectly associated with the erosion of economic and industry conditions since late 2007. These factors include a continuation of a low level of interest rates, higher costs of new debt issuances, elevated non-performing asset levels and costs associated with managing to prudent levels of liquidity risk. The combination of these factors may even lead to a modest decline in margin in the near term from 3.00 percent in the fourth quarter of 2010. Additionally, management expects the net interest margin to be pressured in the near term due in part to the recent portfolio rebalancing activity to further the Company’s capital and liquidity goals. However, Regions’ balance sheet is in an asset sensitive position such that if economic conditions were to improve more rapidly, thereby resulting in a rise in interest rates, the net interest margin would likely respond favorably.

Net charge-offs totaled $2.8 billion, or 3.22 percent of average loans in 2010 compared to $2.3 billion, or 2.38 percent of average loans in 2009. The increased loss rate reflected seasoning of losses as the Company moves through the credit cycle as well as the impact of opportunistic asset dispositions which increased charge-offs and decreased average loan balances. Non-performing assets decreased $494 million between December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2010 to $3.9 billion.

The provision for loan losses is used to maintain the allowance for loan losses at a level that, in management’s judgment, is adequate to cover losses inherent in the loan portfolio as of the balance sheet date. During 2010, the provision for loan losses decreased to $2.9 billion compared to $3.5 billion in 2009. The allowance for credit losses was $3.3 billion, or 3.93 percent of loans, at December 31, 2010 as compared to $3.2 billion, or 3.52 percent of loans, at December 31, 2009. The stabilization in the level of the allowance reflects moderating credit trends.

Non-interest income decreased to $3.5 billion in 2010 from $3.8 billion in 2009. The year-over-year decrease was due primarily to several items impacting 2009 with a lower or no corresponding impact on 2010. These 2009 items include gains from terminations of leveraged leases, which were largely offset by income taxes, a gain on extinguishment of debt realized in connection with the Company’s issuance of common stock in exchange for trust preferred securities, and gains related to transactions in Visa stock. Lower mortgage income, resulting from market valuation adjustments for mortgage servicing rights and related derivatives, also drove the year-over-year decline. The decreases were largely offset by higher gains from sales of securities in 2010, as well as increases in non-interest income attributable to service charges and brokerage, investment banking and capital markets income. The impact of Regulation E on service charges was less than anticipated; however, the Company expects increased pressure on fee-based revenues in light of pending regulatory changes. See Table 2 “GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation” and Table 5 “Non-Interest Income” for further details.

 

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Non-interest expense from continuing operations totaled $5.0 billion in 2010 compared to $4.8 billion in 2009. The year-over-year increase was driven largely by a $200 million nondeductible regulatory charge related to Morgan Keegan, losses on early extinguishments of debt related to prepayment of Federal Home Loan Bank advances, and increased FDIC premiums. Higher salaries and employee benefits and credit-related costs such as other-real-estate-owned expense also contributed to the increase. These items were partially offset by lower other-than-temporary impairment on securities and a 2009 FDIC special assessment which did not repeat in 2010. See Table 8 “Non-Interest Expense (including Non-GAAP Reconciliation)” for further details.

Total loans decreased by $7.8 billion, or 8.6 percent in 2010, driven primarily by a strategic decision to lower exposure to investor real estate. Decreases in residential first mortgage, home equity, and indirect loans also contributed to the year-over-year decrease primarily resulting from consumers’ decisions to de-leverage. Total deposits decreased $4.1 billion in 2010 to $94.6 billion at December 31, 2010, primarily due to maturities of time deposits. However, low-cost customer deposits increased $4.7 billion, or 7 percent in 2010.

Regions’ Tier 1 common and Tier 1 capital ratios were 7.85 percent and 12.40 percent at December 31, 2010. Pro forma calculations indicate that the corresponding Basel III ratios, based on Regions’ current understanding of the guidelines, are approximately 7.62 percent and 11.35 percent, above the respective Basel III minimums of 7 percent and 8.5 percent.

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (“Dodd-Frank Act”) which was signed into law on July 21, 2010 provides some level of clarity regarding how the industry and Regions’ specific business will be affected moving forward. However, provisions in the Dodd-Frank Act remain subject to regulatory rule-making and implementation, and it will be some time before the business implications are completely defined. Proposed rules regarding regulation of interchange income would have a significant negative impact on non-interest revenues if adopted as drafted. In 2010, Regions collected $346 million in debit card income. Based on the current proposed rule, absent any mitigating actions, revenues from debit card income would likely be reduced to approximately one quarter of current levels, assuming a cap of 12 cents per transaction. Non-interest expenses (e.g., FDIC insurance premiums, compliance costs, and other regulatory fees) will also be negatively impacted by provisions included in the legislation. Additionally, trust preferred securities will be phased out as an allowable component of Tier 1 capital over a three-year period beginning in 2013.

Table 2 “GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation” presents computations of earnings and certain other financial measures excluding merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges, including “efficiency ratio”, “average tangible common stockholders’ equity”, end of period “tangible common stockholders’ equity” and “Tier 1 common equity”, all of which are non-GAAP. Merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges are included in financial results presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Regions believes the exclusion of merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges in expressing earnings and certain other financial measures, including “earnings per common share, excluding merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges” and “return on average tangible common stockholders’ equity, excluding merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges” provides a meaningful base for period-to-period and company-to-company comparisons, which management believes will assist investors in analyzing the operating results of the Company and predicting future performance. These non-GAAP financial measures are also used by management to assess the performance of Regions’ business, because management does not consider these charges to be relevant to ongoing operating results. Management and the Board of Directors utilize these non-GAAP financial measures as follows:

 

   

Preparation of Regions’ operating budgets

 

   

Monthly financial performance reporting

 

   

Monthly close-out “flash” reporting of consolidated results (management only)

 

   

Presentations to investors of Company performance

 

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Regions believes that presenting these non-GAAP financial measures will permit investors to assess the performance of the Company on the same basis as that applied by management and the Board of Directors. The third quarter of 2008 was the final quarter for merger charges related to the AmSouth acquisition.

The efficiency ratio, which is a measure of productivity, is generally calculated as non-interest expense divided by total revenue on a fully tax equivalent basis. Management uses the efficiency ratio to monitor performance and believes this measure provides meaningful information to investors. Non-interest expense (GAAP) is presented excluding certain adjustments to arrive at adjusted non-interest expense (non-GAAP), which is the numerator for the efficiency ratio. Net interest income on a fully-taxable equivalent basis (GAAP) and non-interest income (GAAP) are added together to arrive at total revenue. Adjustments are made to arrive at adjusted total revenue (non-GAAP), which is the denominator for the efficiency ratio. Regions believes that the exclusion of these adjustments provides a meaningful base for period-to-period comparisons, which management believes will assist investors in analyzing the operating results of the Company and predicting future performance. These non-GAAP financial measures are also used by management to assess the performance of Regions’ business. It is possible that the activities related to the adjustments may recur; however, management does not consider the activities related to the adjustments to be indications of ongoing operations. Regions believes that presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures will permit investors to assess the performance of the Company on the same basis as that applied by management.

Tangible common stockholders’ equity ratios have become a focus of some investors in analyzing the capital position of the Company absent the effects of intangible assets and preferred stock. Traditionally, the Federal Reserve and other banking regulatory bodies have assessed a bank’s capital adequacy based on Tier 1 capital, the calculation of which is codified in federal banking regulations. In connection with the Federal Reserve’s Supervisory Capital Assessment Program (“SCAP”), these regulators began supplementing their assessment of the capital adequacy of a bank based on a variation of Tier 1 capital, known as Tier 1 common equity. While not codified, analysts and banking regulators have assessed Regions’ capital adequacy using the tangible common stockholders’ equity and/or the Tier 1 common equity measure. Because tangible common stockholders’ equity and Tier 1 common equity are not formally defined by GAAP or codified in the federal banking regulations, these measures are considered to be non-GAAP financial measures and other entities may calculate them differently than Regions’ disclosed calculations. Since analysts and banking regulators may assess Regions’ capital adequacy using tangible common stockholders’ equity and Tier 1 common equity, Regions believes that it is useful to provide investors the ability to assess Regions’ capital adequacy on these same bases.

Tier 1 common equity is often expressed as a percentage of risk-weighted assets. Under the risk-based capital framework, a bank’s balance sheet assets and credit equivalent amounts of off-balance sheet items are assigned to one of four broad risk categories. The aggregated dollar amount in each category is then multiplied by the risk weighting assigned to that category. The resulting weighted values from each of the four categories are added together and this sum is the risk-weighted assets total that, as adjusted, comprises the denominator of certain risk-based capital ratios. Tier 1 capital is then divided by this denominator (risk-weighted assets) to determine the Tier 1 capital ratio. Adjustments are made to Tier 1 capital to arrive at Tier 1 common equity (non-GAAP). Tier 1 common equity is also divided by the risk-weighted assets to determine the Tier 1 common equity ratio. The amounts disclosed as risk-weighted assets are calculated consistent with banking regulatory requirements.

Non-GAAP financial measures have inherent limitations, are not required to be uniformly applied and are not audited. To mitigate these limitations, Regions has policies and procedures in place to identify and address expenses that qualify for non-GAAP presentation, including authorization and system controls to ensure accurate period-to-period comparisons. Although these non-GAAP financial measures are frequently used by stakeholders in the evaluation of a company, they have limitations as analytical tools, and should not be considered in isolation, or as a substitute for analyses of results as reported under GAAP. In particular, a measure of earnings that excludes the merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges does not represent the amount that effectively accrues directly to stockholders (i.e., the merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges are a reduction to earnings and stockholders’ equity).

 

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The following tables provide: 1) a reconciliation of net income (loss) available to common shareholders (GAAP) to net income (loss) available to common shareholders, excluding merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges (non-GAAP), 2) a reconciliation of earnings (loss) per common share (GAAP) to earnings (loss) per common share, excluding merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges (non-GAAP), 3) a reconciliation of non-interest expense (GAAP) to adjusted non-interest expense (non-GAAP), 4) a reconciliation of non-interest income (GAAP) to adjusted non-interest income (non-GAAP), 5) computation of adjusted total revenue (non-GAAP), 6) computation of the efficiency ratio (non-GAAP), 7) a reconciliation of return on average assets (GAAP) to return on average assets, excluding merger, goodwill impairments and regulatory charges (non-GAAP), 8) a reconciliation of average and ending stockholders’ equity (GAAP) to average and ending tangible common stockholders’ equity with and without merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges (non-GAAP), and 9) a reconciliation of stockholders’ equity (GAAP) to Tier 1 capital (regulatory) and to Tier 1 common equity (non-GAAP).

Table 2—GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation

 

            For Years Ended December 31  
       2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
                  (In millions, except per share data)  

INCOME (LOSS)

             

Net income (loss) from continuing operations (GAAP)

      $ (539   $ (1,031   $ (5,585   $ 1,393      $ 1,373   

Preferred dividends and accretion (GAAP)

        (224     (230     (26     —          —     
                                           

Net income (loss) from continuing operations available to common shareholders (GAAP)

        (763     (1,261     (5,611     1,393        1,373   

Net income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (GAAP)

        —          —          (11     (142     (19
                                           

Net income (loss) available to common shareholders (GAAP)

     A       $ (763   $ (1,261   $ (5,622   $ 1,251      $ 1,354   
                                           

Income (loss) from continuing operations available to common shareholders (GAAP)

      $ (763   $ (1,261   $ (5,611   $ 1,393      $ 1,373   

Merger-related charges, pre-tax

             

Salaries and employee benefits

        —          —          134        159        66   

Net occupancy expense

        —          —          4        34        3   

Furniture and equipment expense

        —          —          5        5        1   

Other

        —          —          58        153        19   
                                           

Total merger-related charges, pre-tax

        —          —          201        351        89   
                                           

Merger-related charges, net of tax

        —          —          125        219        60   

Goodwill impairment

        —          —          6,000        —          —     

Regulatory charge

        200        —          —          —          —     
                                           

Income from continuing operations, excluding merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges (non-GAAP)

     B       $ (563   $ (1,261   $ 514      $ 1,612      $ 1,433   
                                           

Weighted-average diluted shares

     C         1,227        989        695        713        507   

Earnings (loss) per common share—diluted (GAAP)

     A/C       $ (0.62   $ (1.27   $ (8.09   $ 1.76      $ 2.67   
                                           

Earnings per common share from continuing operations, excluding merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges—diluted (non-GAAP)

     B/C       $ (0.46   $ (1.27   $ 0.74      $ 2.26      $ 2.83   
                                           

 

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            For Years Ended December 31  
       2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
                  (In millions, except per share data)  

EFFICIENCY RATIO

             

Non-interest expense (GAAP)

      $ 4,985      $ 4,751      $ 10,792      $ 4,660      $ 3,204   

Adjustments:

             

Merger-related charges

        —          —          (201     (351     (89

Goodwill impairment

        —          —          (6,000     —          —     

Regulatory charge

        (200     —          —          —          —     

Mortgage servicing rights impairment

        —          —          (85     (6     (16

Loss on extinguishment of debt

        (108     —          (66     —          —     

FDIC special assessment

        —          (64     —          —          —     

Securities impairment, net

        (2     (75     (23     (7     —     

Branch consolidation costs

        (8     (53     —          —          —     
                                           

Adjusted non-interest expense (non-GAAP)

     D       $ 4,667      $ 4,559      $ 4,417      $ 4,296      $ 3,099   
                                           

Net interest income, taxable-equivalent basis (GAAP)

      $ 3,464      $ 3,367      $ 3,880      $ 4,437      $ 3,469   

Non-interest income (GAAP)

        3,531        3,755        3,073        2,856        2,030   

Adjustments:

             

Securities (gains) losses, net

        (394     (69     (92     9        (8

Leveraged lease termination gains

        (78     (587     —          —          —     

Visa-related gains

        —          (80     (63     —          —     

Gain on early extinguishment of debt

        —          (61     —          —          —     

Gain on sale of mortgage loans

        (26     —          —          —          —     
                                           

Adjusted non-interest income (non-GAAP)

        3,033        2,958        2,918        2,865        2,022   
                                           

Adjusted total revenue (non-GAAP)

     E       $ 6,497      $ 6,325      $ 6,798      $ 7,302      $ 5,491   
                                           

Efficiency ratio (non-GAAP)

     D/E         71.83     72.08     64.97     58.83     56.44

RETURN ON AVERAGE ASSETS

             

Average assets (GAAP)

     F       $ 135,955      $ 142,759      $ 143,947      $ 138,757      $ 95,800   

Return on average assets (GAAP)

     A/F         -0.56     -0.88     -3.90     0.90     1.41

Return on average assets, excluding merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges (non-GAAP)

     B/F         -0.41     -0.88     0.36     1.16     1.50

RETURN ON AVERAGE TANGIBLE COMMON STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY(1)

             

Average stockholders’ equity (GAAP)

      $ 17,444      $ 17,773      $ 19,939      $ 20,036      $ 12,369   

Average intangible assets (GAAP)

        6,003        6,122        11,949        12,130        6,450   

Average deferred tax liability related to intangibles (GAAP)

        (255     (286     (321     (370     (185

Average preferred equity (GAAP)

        3,479        3,487        425        —          —     
                                           

Average tangible common stockholders’ equity (non-GAAP)

     G       $ 8,217      $ 8,450      $ 7,886      $ 8,276      $ 6,104   
                                           

Average stockholders’ equity, excluding discontinued operations (GAAP)

      $ 17,444      $ 17,773      $ 19,939      $ 20,013      $ 12,215   

Average intangible assets, excluding discontinued operations (GAAP)

        6,003        6,122        11,949        12,130        6,450   

Average deferred tax liability related to intangibles (GAAP)

        (255     (286     (321     (370     (185

Average preferred equity (GAAP)

        3,479        3,487        425        —          —     
                                           

Average tangible common equity, excluding discontinued operations (non-GAAP)

     H       $ 8,217      $ 8,450      $ 7,886      $ 8,253      $ 5,950   
                                           

Return on average tangible common equity (non-GAAP)

     A/G         -9.29     -14.92     -71.29     15.12     22.18
                                           

Return on average tangible common equity, excluding discontinued operations, merger, goodwill impairment and regulatory charges (non-GAAP)

     B/H         -6.85     -14.92     6.52     19.53     24.08
                                           

 

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            For Years Ended December 31  
       2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
                  (In millions, except per share data)  

TANGIBLE COMMON RATIOS(1)

             

Ending stockholders’ equity (GAAP)

      $ 16,734      $ 17,881      $ 16,813      $ 19,823      $ 20,701   

Less: Ending intangible assets (GAAP)

        5,946        6,060        6,186        12,252        12,133   

Ending deferred tax liability related to intangibles (GAAP)

        (240     (269     (303     (339     (401

Ending preferred equity (GAAP)

        3,380        3,602        3,307        —          —     
                                           

Ending tangible common stockholders’ equity (non-GAAP)

     I       $ 7,648      $ 8,488      $ 7,623      $ 7,910      $ 8,969   
                                           

Ending total assets (GAAP)

        132,351        142,318        146,248        141,042        143,369   

Less: Ending intangible assets (GAAP)

        5,946        6,060        6,186        12,252        12,133   

Ending deferred tax liability related to intangibles (GAAP)

        (240     (269     (303     (339     (401
                                           

Ending tangible assets (non-GAAP)

     J       $ 126,645      $ 136,527      $ 140,365      $ 129,129      $ 131,637   
                                           

End of period shares outstanding

     K         1,256        1,193        691        694        730   

Tangible common stockholders’ equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP)

     I/J         6.04     6.22     5.43     6.13     6.81

Tangible common book value per share (non-GAAP)

     I/K       $ 6.09      $ 7.11      $ 11.03      $ 11.40      $ 12.29   

TIER 1 COMMON RISK-BASED RATIO

             

Stockholders’ equity (GAAP)

      $ 16,734      $ 17,881      $ 16,813       

Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss

        260        (130     8       

Non-qualifying goodwill and intangibles

        (5,706     (5,792     (5,864    

Disallowed deferred tax assets(2)

        (424     (947     —         

Disallowed servicing assets

        (27     (25     (16    

Qualifying non-controlling interests

        92        91        91       

Qualifying trust preferred securities

        846        846        1,036       
                               

Tier 1 capital (regulatory)

        11,775        11,924        12,068       

Qualifying non-controlling interests

        (92     (91     (91    

Qualifying trust preferred securities

        (846     (846     (1,036    

Preferred stock

        (3,380     (3,602     (3,307    
                               

Tier 1 common equity (non-GAAP)

     L       $ 7,457      $ 7,385      $ 7,634       
                               

Risk-weighted assets (regulatory)

     M         94,966        103,330        116,251       

Tier 1 common risk-based ratio (non-GAAP)

     L/M         7.85     7.15     6.57    
                               

 

(1) Beginning in 2010, tangible ratios are computed net of deferred taxes associated with intangible assets. Prior periods have been revised to conform with current presentation.
(2) Only one year of projected future taxable income may be applied in calculating deferred tax assets for regulatory capital purposes.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

In preparing financial information, management is required to make significant estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses for the periods shown. The accounting principles followed by Regions and the methods of applying these principles conform with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. and general banking practices. Estimates and assumptions most significant to Regions are related primarily to the allowance for credit losses, fair value measurements, intangible assets (goodwill and other identifiable intangible assets), mortgage servicing rights and income taxes, and are summarized in the following discussion and in the notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Allowance for Credit Losses

The allowance for credit losses (“allowance”) consists of the allowance for loan losses and the reserve for unfunded credit commitments. These two components reflect management’s judgment of probable credit losses

 

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inherent in the portfolio and unfunded credit commitments at the balance sheet date. A full discussion of these estimates and other factors are included in the “Allowance for Credit Losses” section within the discussion of credit risk, found in a later section of this report, and Note 5 “Allowance for Credit Losses” to the consolidated financial statements.

The allowance is sensitive to a variety of internal factors, such as portfolio performance and assigned risk ratings, as well as external factors, such as interest rates and the general health of the economy. Management reviews different assumptions for variables that could result in increases or decreases in probable inherent credit losses, which may materially impact Regions’ estimate of the allowance and results of operations.

Management’s estimate of the allowance for the commercial and investor real estate portfolio segments could be affected by estimates of losses inherent in various product types as a result of fluctuations in the general economy, developments within a particular industry, or changes in an individual’s credit due to factors particular to that credit, such as competition, management or business performance. A 10 percent increase or decrease in the estimated loss rates on all pools of loans with similar risk characteristics would change estimated inherent losses by approximately $180 million. For residential real estate mortgages, home equity lending and other consumer-related loans, individual products are reviewed on a group basis or in loan pools (e.g., residential real estate mortgage pools). Losses can be affected by such factors as collateral value, loss severity, the economy and other uncontrollable factors. A 10 percent increase or decrease in the estimated loss rates on these loans would change estimated inherent losses by approximately $55 million.

Additionally, the estimate of the allowance for the entire portfolio may change due to modifications in the mix and level of loan balances outstanding and general economic conditions, as evidenced by changes in real estate demand and values, interest rates, unemployment rates, bankruptcy filings, fluctuations in the gross domestic product, and the effects of weather and natural disasters such as droughts and hurricanes. Each has the ability to result in actual loan losses that could differ from originally estimated amounts.

The pro forma inherent loss analysis presented above demonstrates the sensitivity of the allowance to key assumptions. This sensitivity analysis does not reflect an expected outcome.

Fair Value Measurements

A portion of the Company’s assets and liabilities is carried at fair value, with changes in fair value recorded either in earnings or accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). These include trading account assets, securities available for sale, mortgage loans held for sale, mortgage servicing rights and derivatives (net). From time to time, the estimation of fair value also affects other loans held for sale, which are recorded at the lower of cost or fair value. Fair value determination is also relevant for certain other assets such as foreclosed property and other real estate, which are recorded at the lower of the recorded investment in the loan/property or fair value, less estimated costs to sell the property. For example, the fair value of other real estate is determined based on recent appraisals by third parties and other market information, less estimated selling costs. Adjustments to the appraised value are made if management becomes aware of changes in the fair value of specific properties or property types. The determination of fair value also impacts certain other assets that are periodically evaluated for impairment using fair value estimates, including goodwill, other identifiable intangible assets and impaired loans.

Fair value is generally defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) as opposed to the price that would be paid to acquire the asset or received to assume the liability (an entry price), in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions. While management uses judgment when determining the price at which willing market participants would transact when there has been a significant decrease in the volume or level of activity for the asset or liability in relation to “normal” market activity, management’s objective is to determine the point within the range of fair value estimates that is most representative of a sale to a third-party financial investor under current market conditions. The value to the Company if the asset or liability were held to maturity is not included in the fair value estimates.

 

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A fair value measure should reflect the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including the assumptions about the risk inherent in a particular valuation technique, the effect of a restriction on the sale or use of an asset and the risk of nonperformance. Fair value is measured based on a variety of inputs the Company utilizes. Fair value may be based on quoted market prices for identical assets or liabilities traded in active markets (Level 1 valuations). If market prices are not available, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market are used (Level 2 valuations). Where observable market data is not available, the valuation is generated from model-based techniques that use significant assumptions not observable in the market, but observable based on Company-specific data (Level 3 valuations). These unobservable assumptions reflect the Company’s own estimates for assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Valuation techniques typically include option pricing models, discounted cash flow models and similar techniques, but may also include the use of market prices of assets or liabilities that are not directly comparable to the subject asset or liability.

See Note 21 “Fair Value Measurements” to the consolidated financial statements for a detailed discussion of determining fair value.

Intangible Assets

Regions’ intangible assets consist primarily of the excess of cost over the fair value of net assets of acquired businesses (“goodwill”) and other identifiable intangible assets (primarily core deposit intangibles). Goodwill totaled $5.6 billion at both December 31, 2010 and 2009 and is allocated to each of Regions’ reportable segments (each a reporting unit), at which level goodwill is tested for impairment on an annual basis or more often if events and circumstances indicate impairment may exist (refer to Note 1 “Significant Accounting Policies” to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion of when Regions tests goodwill for impairment). Adverse changes in the economic environment, declining operations of the reporting unit, or other factors could result in a decline in the estimated implied fair value of goodwill. If the estimated implied fair value is less than the carrying amount, a loss would be recognized to reduce the carrying amount to the estimated implied fair value.

A test of goodwill for impairment consists of two steps. In Step One, the fair value of the reporting unit is compared to its carrying amount. To the extent that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, impairment is not indicated and no further testing is required. Conversely, if the fair value of the reporting unit is below its carrying amount, Step Two must be performed. Step Two consists of determining the implied fair value of goodwill, which is the net difference between the after-tax valuation adjustments of assets and liabilities and the valuation adjustment to equity (from Step One) of the reporting unit.

The fair value of the reporting unit is determined using two approaches and several key assumptions. Regions utilizes the capital asset pricing model (CAPM) in order to derive the base discount rate. The inputs to the CAPM include the 20-year risk-free rate, 5-year beta for a select peer set, and the market risk premium based on published data. Once the output of the CAPM is determined, a size premium is added (also based on a published source) as well as a company-specific risk premium, which is an estimate determined by the Company and meant to compensate for the risk inherent in the future cash flow projections and inherent differences (such as business model and market perception of risk) between Regions and the peer set. The table below summarizes the discount rate used in the goodwill impairment tests of the Banking/Treasury reporting unit for the reporting periods indicated:

 

     4th Quarter
2010
    3rd Quarter
2010
    2nd Quarter
2010
    1st Quarter
2010
    4th Quarter
2009
 

Discount Rate

     15     16     16     16     18

The decrease in discount rate from the fourth quarter 2009 test to the first quarter 2010 test was driven primarily by a reduction in the company-specific risk premium, which was lowered as a result of updated forecasts that reduced uncertainty from the projected cash flows.

 

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In the fourth quarter of 2010, Regions reduced the company-specific component of its discount rate to reflect several positive factors that occurred during the period, as well as factors which reduced the uncertainty of future cash flow projections. Specifically, the Company earned a profit and experienced improving credit metrics, including lower non-performing assets and lower gross inflows of non-performing loans than in the third quarter of 2010. Additionally, Regions experienced lower levels of criticized loans, a leading indicator of loan losses (see Note 5 “Allowance for Credit Losses” to the consolidated financial statements for further details, including a definition of “criticized loans.”) The Company also completed its three-year strategic plan, which reflected improving credit trends and included additional clarity around future cash flows that were driven by a proposed rule issued by the Federal Reserve governing debit card income and the announcements in the fourth quarter of 2010 and January of 2011 of pending non-distressed, orderly sales of financial institutions of comparable size and/or footprint to Regions. Additionally, the Basel Committee finalized its capital framework, which provided additional clarity on future equity requirements that impact the projections of future cash flows. In the judgment of management, these factors outweighed the downgrades of Regions’ debt to below investment grade during the fourth quarter of 2010, as well as new rules which are expected to increase FDIC insurance premiums.

In estimating future cash flows, a balance sheet as of the test date and a statement of operations for the last twelve months of activity for the reporting unit are compiled. From that point, future balance sheets and statements of operations are projected based on the inputs discussed below. Cash flows are based on expected future capitalization requirements due to balance sheet growth and anticipated changes in regulatory capital requirements. The baseline cash flows utilized in all models correspond to the most recent internal forecasts and/or budgets that range from 1 to 5 years. These internal forecasts are based on inputs developed in the Company’s capital planning processes.

Refer to the discussion of intangible assets in Note 1 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” to the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of these approaches and Note 8 “Intangible Assets” for a discussion of the assumptions. The fair values of assets and liabilities are determined using an exit price concept. Refer to the discussion of fair value in Note 1 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 21 “Fair Value Measurements” to the consolidated financial statements for discussions of the exit price concept and the determination of fair values of financial assets and liabilities.

In the fourth quarter of 2008, Regions performed its goodwill impairment tests for the Banking/Treasury reporting unit, which resulted in an implied fair value of goodwill of approximately $4.7 billion and a goodwill impairment charge of $6.0 billion. Throughout 2009 and continuing into the first half of 2010, in the Banking/Treasury reporting unit, the credit quality of Regions’ loan portfolio declined, which contributed to increased losses as well as elevated non-performing loan levels. Accordingly, Regions performed tests of goodwill for impairment during each quarter of 2010 and during the second, third and fourth quarters of 2009 in a manner consistent with the test conducted in the fourth quarter of 2008. The long-term fair value of equity was determined using both income and market approaches (discussed in Note 8 “Intangible Assets” of the consolidated financial statements). The results of these calculations continued to indicate that the fair value of the Banking/Treasury reporting unit was less than its carrying amount. As of December 31, 2010, the carrying amount and fair value of the Banking/Treasury reporting unit were $11.9 billion and $8.0 billion, respectively, while the carrying amount of goodwill for the reporting unit was $4.7 billion. Therefore, Step Two of the goodwill impairment test was performed. In Step Two, the fair values of the reporting unit’s assets and liabilities, including the loan portfolio, intangible assets, time deposits, debt, and others were calculated. Once the fair values were determined, deferred tax adjustments were calculated as applicable. The after-tax effects of the Step Two adjustments, which were primarily write-downs of assets to fair value, exceeded any reductions in the value of common equity determined in Step One; therefore, the results were no impairment for the Banking/Treasury reporting unit. Since the second quarter of 2009, the fair values of net assets and liabilities of the Banking/Treasury reporting unit have increased faster than the value of this reporting unit. Should the fair values of net assets continue to increase more rapidly than the fair value of this reporting unit, goodwill could be impaired in future periods.

 

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Specific factors as of the date of filing the financial statements that could negatively impact the assumptions used in assessing goodwill for impairment include: disparities in the level of fair value changes in net assets compared to equity; adverse business trends resulting from litigation and/or regulatory actions; increasing FDIC premiums; higher loan losses; lengthened forecasts of unemployment in excess of 10 percent beyond 2012; future increased minimum regulatory capital requirements above current thresholds (refer to Note 14 “Regulatory Capital Requirements and Restrictions” to the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of current minimum regulatory requirements); future federal rules and regulations resulting from the Dodd-Frank Act; and/or a protraction in the current low level of interest rates beyond 2012.

The following tables present an analysis of independent changes in market factors or significant assumptions that could adversely impact the carrying balance of goodwill in the Banking/Treasury reporting unit and the outcome of the Step One tests for the Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust and Insurance reporting units:

 

Impact to the Carrying Value of Goodwill
Banking/Treasury Reporting Unit

 

Change in Discount Rate

     Estimated Amount
of Impairment
 
       (In millions)  

+ 2%

     $ (a)    

+ 3%

       (464

+ 4%

       (939

Change in Tangible Book Value Multipliers (b)

        

- 53%

     $ (a)    

Improvement in Loan Fair Values

        

+ 2.7 Percentage Points

     $ (a)    

+ 3.0 Percentage Points

       (172

+ 4.0 Percentage Points

       (680

 

(a) Represents the point at which the implied fair value of goodwill would approximate its carrying value.

 

(b) Represents a 53 percent decline in both tangible book value multipliers of 1.0x and 1.3x for the public company method and the transaction method, respectively. The 1.0x multiplier for the public company method is before the 30 percent control premium utilized for this metric. See Note 8 for further details.

 

Impact to Step One Conclusion
Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust and Insurance Reporting Units

 
         Impact of Change  

Change in Discount Rate

       Investment Banking/
Brokerage/Trust
     Insurance  

+ 1%

       Pass         Pass   

+ 2%

       Pass         Pass   

+ 3%

       Fail         Pass   

Change in Market Approach Multipliers (c) (d)

                  

- 10%

       Pass         Pass   

- 20%

       Pass         Pass   

- 30%

       Pass         Pass   

- 40%

       Fail         Pass   

 

(c) For Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust, represents the percent decline in both tangible book value multipliers of 1.6x and 2.1x for the public company method and the transaction method, respectively. The 1.6x multiplier for the public company method is before the 30 percent control premium utilized for this metric. See Note 8 for further details.

 

(d) For Insurance, represents the percent decline in the 17.3x multiplier for the last twelve months of net income and is before the 30 percent control premium utilized for this metric. See Note 8 for further details.

 

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The sensitivity calculations above are hypothetical and should not be considered to be predictive of future performance. Changes in implied fair value based on adverse changes in assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in assumption to the change in fair value may not be linear. Also, the effect of an adverse variation in a particular assumption on the implied fair value of goodwill is calculated without changing any other assumption, while in reality changes in one factor may result in changes in another which may either magnify or counteract the effect of the change.

Other identifiable intangible assets, primarily core deposit intangibles, are reviewed at least annually for events or circumstances which could impact the recoverability of the intangible asset, such as loss of core deposits, increased competition or adverse changes in the economy. To the extent another identifiable intangible asset is deemed unrecoverable; an impairment loss would be recorded to reduce the carrying amount. These events or circumstances, if they occur, could be material to Regions’ operating results for any particular reporting period but the potential impact cannot be reasonably estimated.

Mortgage Servicing Rights

Regions estimates the fair value of its mortgage servicing rights in order to record them at fair value on the balance sheet. Although sales of mortgage servicing rights do occur, mortgage servicing rights do not trade in an active market with readily observable market prices and the exact terms and conditions of sales may not be readily available, and are therefore Level 3 valuations in the fair value hierarchy previously discussed. Specific characteristics of the underlying loans greatly impact the estimated value of the related mortgage servicing rights. As a result, Regions stratifies its mortgage servicing portfolio on the basis of certain risk characteristics, including loan type and contractual note rate, and values its mortgage servicing rights using discounted cash flow modeling techniques. These techniques require management to make estimates regarding future net servicing cash flows, taking into consideration historical and forecasted mortgage loan prepayment rates and discount rates. Changes in interest rates, prepayment speeds or other factors impact the fair value of mortgage servicing rights which impacts earnings. Based on a hypothetical sensitivity analysis, Regions estimates that a reduction in primary mortgage market rates of 25 basis points and 50 basis points would reduce the December 31, 2010 fair value of mortgage servicing rights by approximately 6.1 percent ($16 million) and 12.7 percent ($34 million), respectively. Conversely, 25 basis point and 50 basis point increases in these rates would increase the December 31, 2010 fair value of mortgage servicing rights by approximately 5.6 percent ($15 million) and 10.7 percent ($28 million), respectively.

The pro forma fair value analysis presented above demonstrates the sensitivity of fair values to hypothetical changes in primary mortgage rates. This sensitivity analysis does not reflect an expected outcome. Refer to the “Mortgage Servicing Rights” discussion in the “Balance Sheet” analysis section found later in this report.

Income Taxes

Accrued income taxes are reported as a component of other assets in the consolidated balance sheets and reflect management’s estimate of income taxes to be paid or received.

Deferred income taxes represent the amount of future income taxes to be paid or received and are accounted for using the asset and liability method. The net balance is reported in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. The Company determines the realization of the net deferred tax asset based upon an evaluation of the four possible sources of taxable income: 1) the future reversals of taxable temporary differences; 2) future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards; 3) taxable income in prior carryback years; and 4) tax-planning strategies. In projecting future taxable income, the Company utilizes forecasted pre-tax earnings, adjusts for the estimated book-tax differences and incorporates assumptions, including the amounts of income allocable to taxing jurisdictions. These assumptions require significant judgment and are consistent with the plans and estimates the Company uses to manage the underlying businesses. The realization of the deferred tax assets could be reduced in the future if these estimates are significantly different than forecasted. For a detailed discussion of realization of deferred tax assets, refer to the “Income Taxes” section found later in this report.

 

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The Company is subject to income tax in the U.S. and multiple state and local jurisdictions. The tax laws and regulations in each jurisdiction may be interpreted differently in certain situations, which could result in a range of outcomes. Thus, the Company is required to exercise judgment regarding the application of these tax laws and regulations. In the event a dispute with a taxing authority arises, the Company will evaluate and recognize tax liabilities related to the tax uncertainties. Due to the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is different from the current estimate of the tax liabilities.

The Company’s estimate of accrued income taxes, deferred income taxes and income tax expense can also change in any period as a result of new legislative or judicial guidance impacting tax positions, as well as changes in income tax rates. Any changes, if they occur, can be significant to the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

OPERATING RESULTS

GENERAL

Regions reported a net loss available to common shareholders of $763 million in 2010, compared to a net loss available to common shareholders of $1.3 billion in 2009. The lower loss in 2010 was primarily reflective of moderation in credit quality within the Company’s loan portfolio. However, the provision for loan losses remained elevated.

NET INTEREST INCOME AND MARGIN

Net interest income (interest income less interest expense) is Regions’ principal source of income and is one of the most important elements of Regions’ ability to meet its overall performance goals. Net interest income on a taxable-equivalent basis increased 3 percent to $3.5 billion in 2010 from $3.4 billion in 2009 despite a decrease in the level of average earning assets, from $125.9 billion in 2009 to $119.3 billion in 2010. The increase in the net interest margin to 2.90 percent in 2010 from 2.67 percent in 2009 was sufficient to offset the impact of the smaller balance sheet size.

Comparing 2010 to 2009, interest-earning asset yields were lower, decreasing 30 basis points on average. However, interest-bearing liability rates were also lower, declining by 60 basis points, which was more than enough improvement in funding costs to offset the drop in interest-earning asset yields. As a result, the net interest rate spread increased 30 basis points to 2.58 percent in 2010 as compared to 2.28 percent in 2009.

Continued low levels of long-term interest rates affected interest-earning asset yields through their influence on the behavior and pricing of fixed-rate loans and securities. Longer-term rates remained at historical low levels and fluctuated throughout the year. The yield on the benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury note ranged from a high of 4.01 percent to a low of 2.41 percent, and for the year decreased 55 basis points, ending the year at 3.30 percent. Persistently low long-term rates can incent fixed-rate borrowers to accelerate reductions or prepayments of existing loans, often at lower rates of interest. This results in pressure on yields for portfolios that have a significant concentration of fixed-rate loans. The taxable investment securities portfolio, which contains significant residential fixed-rate exposure, for example, decreased in yield from 4.78 percent in 2009 to 3.66 percent in 2010.

The negative influence of low, long-term interest rates on net interest margin, however, was offset by improvements in liability costs. The Federal Funds rate and the Prime Rate, which are influential drivers of loan and deposit pricing on the shorter end of the yield curve, remained low at approximately 0.25 percent and 3.25 percent, respectively, throughout 2010, essentially unchanged from the previous year-end level. Despite the lack of movement in short-term rates compared to historic lows, deposit costs improved considerably from 1.35 percent in 2009 to 0.78 percent in 2010. There was substantial improvement in costs in every deposit category, including average money market accounts which declined from 0.84 percent to 0.43 percent, and yet experienced an increase in average total balance from $21.4 billion in 2009 to $26.8 billion in 2010. The improvement in overall deposit cost was also attributable to a less costly mix of deposits. For example, average time deposits declined from $32.7 billion in 2009 to $26.2 billion in 2010. Meanwhile, average non-interest bearing customer deposits increased from $20.7 billion in 2009 to $24.0 billion in 2010.

 

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Table 3 “Consolidated Average Daily Balances and Yield/Rate Analysis” presents a detail of net interest income (on a fully taxable-equivalent basis) the net interest margin, and the net interest spread.

Table 3—Consolidated Average Daily Balances and Yield/Rate Analysis

 

    2010     2009     2008  
    Average
Balance
    Income/
Expense
    Yield/
Rate
    Average
Balance
    Income/
Expense
    Yield/
Rate
    Average
Balance
    Income/
Expense
    Yield/
Rate
 
    (Dollars in millions; yields on taxable-equivalent basis)  

Assets

                 

Interest-earning assets:

                 

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

  $ 694      $ 3        0.43   $ 503      $ 3        0.60   $ 868      $ 18        2.07

Trading account assets

    1,236        44        3.56        1,599        65        4.07        1,473        66        4.48   

Securities:

                 

Taxable

    23,854        873        3.66        20,221        966        4.78        16,897        828        4.90   

Tax-exempt

    44        1        2.27        460        29        6.30        754        61        8.09   

Loans held for sale

    1,281        39        3.04        1,655        55        3.32        664        36        5.42   

Loans, net of unearned income(1)(2)

    86,660        3,734        4.31        94,523        4,218        4.46        97,601        5,562        5.70   

Other interest-earning assets

    5,548        27        0.49        6,927        28        0.40        1,873        29        1.55   
                                                                       

Total interest-earning assets

    119,317        4,721        3.96        125,888        5,364        4.26        120,130        6,600        5.49   

Allowance for loan losses

    (3,187         (2,240         (1,413    

Cash and due from banks

    2,105            2,245            2,522       

Other non-earning assets

    17,720            16,866            22,708       
                                   
  $ 135,955          $ 142,759          $ 143,947       
                                   

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

                 

Interest-bearing liabilities:

                 

Savings accounts

  $ 4,459        4        0.09      $ 3,984        5        0.13      $ 3,744        4        0.11   

Interest-bearing transaction accounts

    14,404        32        0.22        14,347        40        0.28        15,058        127        0.84   

Money market accounts

    26,753        116        0.43        21,434        181        0.84        18,269        326        1.78   

Money market accounts—foreign

    601        1        0.17        1,139        3        0.26        2,828        47        1.66   

Time deposits—customer

    26,236        601        2.29        32,617        1,045        3.20        28,301        1,099        3.88   
                                                                       

Total customer deposits—interest-bearing

    72,453        754        1.04        73,521        1,274        1.73        68,200        1,603        2.35   
                                                                       

Time deposits—non customer

    54        1        1.85        122        2        1.64        2,083        75        3.60   

Other foreign deposits

    —          —          —          312        1        0.32        2,074        46        2.22   
                                                                       

Total treasury deposits—interest-bearing

    54        1        1.85        434        3        0.69        4,157        121        2.91   
                                                                       

Total interest-bearing deposits

    72,507        755        1.04        73,955        1,277        1.73        72,357        1,724        2.38   

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase

    2,284        3        0.13        3,166        12        0.38        7,697        171        2.22   

Other short-term borrowings

    963        7        0.73        5,229        42        0.80        8,704        198        2.27   

Long-term borrowings

    15,547        492        3.16        18,588        666        3.58        13,510        627        4.64   
                                                                       

Total interest-bearing liabilities

    91,301        1,257        1.38        100,938        1,997        1.98        102,268        2,720        2.66   
                                   

Net interest spread

        2.58         2.28         2.83
                                   

Customer deposits—non-interest-bearing

    23,982            20,657            17,720       

Other liabilities

    3,228            3,391            4,020       

Stockholders' equity

    17,444            17,773            19,939       
                                   
  $ 135,955          $ 142,759          $ 143,947       
                                   

Net interest income/margin on a taxable-equivalent basis(3)

    $ 3,464        2.90     $ 3,367        2.67     $ 3,880        3.23
                                                     

 

1. Loans, net of unearned income include non-accrual loans for all periods presented.
2. Interest income includes loan fees of $36 million, $30 million and $50 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
3. The computation of taxable-equivalent net interest income is based on the stautory federal income tax rate of 35%, adjusted for applicable state income taxes net of the related federal tax benefit.
4. Total deposit costs may be calculated by dividing total interest expense on deposits by the sum of interest-bearing deposits and non-interest bearing deposits. The rates for total deposit costs equal 0.78 percent, 1.35 percent and 1.91 percent for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

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Table 4—Volume and Yield/Rate Variances

 

     2010 Compared to 2009
Change Due to
    2009 Compared to 2008
Change Due to
 
     Volume     Yield/
Rate
    Net     Volume     Yield/
Rate
    Net  
     (Taxable equivalent basis––in millions)  

Interest income on:

            

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

   $ 1      $ (1   $ —        $ (6   $ (9   $ (15

Trading account assets

     (14     (7     (21     5        (6     (1

Securities:

            

Taxable

     156        (249     (93     159        (21     138   

Tax-exempt

     (16     (12     (28     (20     (12     (32

Loans held for sale

     (12     (4     (16     37        (18     19   

Loans, net of unearned income

     (342     (142     (484     (171     (1,173     (1,344

Other interest-earning assets

     (6     5        (1     33        (34     (1
                                                

Total interest-earning assets

     (233     (410     (643     37        (1,273     (1,236
                                                

Interest expense on:

            

Savings accounts

     1        (2     (1     —          1        1   

Interest-bearing transaction accounts

     —          (8     (8     (6     (81     (87

Money market accounts

     38        (103     (65     49        (194     (145

Money market accounts—foreign

     (1     (1     (2     (18     (26     (44

Time deposits—customer

     (181     (263     (444     154        (208     (54
                                                

Total customer deposits—interest-bearing

     (143     (377     (520     179        (508     (329

Time deposits—non customer

     (1     —          (1     (46     (27     (73

Other foreign deposits

     (1     —          (1     (22     (23     (45
                                                

Total treasury deposits—interest-bearing

     (2     —          (2     (68     (50     (118
                                                

Total interest-bearing deposits

     (145     (377     (522     111        (558     (447

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase

     (3     (6     (9     (66     (93     (159

Other short-term borrowings

     (31     (4     (35     (60     (96     (156

Long-term borrowings

     (102     (72     (174     202        (163     39   
                                                

Total interest-bearing liabilities

     (281     (459     (740     187        (910     (723
                                                

Increase (decrease) in net interest income

   $ 48      $ 49      $ 97      $ (150   $ (363   $ (513
                                                

 

Notes:

1. The change in interest not due solely to volume or yield/rate has been allocated to the volume column and yield/rate column in proportion to the relationship of the absolute dollar amounts of the change in each.
2. The computation of taxable-equivalent net interest income is based on the statutory federal income tax rate of 35 percent, adjusted for applicable state income taxes net of the related federal tax benefit.

Net interest income and interest-rate spread are also affected by the actions taken to manage interest rate risk. As described in the “Market Risk-Interest Rate Risk” section of MD&A, Regions employs multiple tools in order to manage the risk of variability in net interest income attributable to changes in interest rates. Among these tools are interest rate derivatives. In 2010, net interest income attributable to interest rate derivatives for hedging purposes was $515 million versus $526 million in 2009.

The mix of interest-earning assets can also affect the interest rate spread. Regions’ primary types of interest-earning assets are loans and investment securities. Certain types of interest-earning assets have historically

 

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generated larger spreads, for example, loans typically generate larger spreads than other assets, such as securities, Federal funds sold or securities purchased under agreement to resell. However, in 2010, the spread on loans remained depressed due to lower interest rates and a higher level of loans on non-accrual status. Average interest-earning assets at December 31, 2010 totaled $119.3 billion, a decrease of $6.6 billion as compared to the prior year, or 5 percent. While average earning assets declined during 2010, the mix changed somewhat, reflecting higher securities balances on average and a decline in average loans due to decreased loan demand and run-off of investor real estate.

Also affecting the interest rate spread was a continued elevated amount of interest-bearing deposits in other banks (included in “other interest-earning assets” in Table 3), primarily the Federal Reserve Bank, as a result of the Company’s liquidity management process. These funds generate a significantly lower spread than loans or securities. Average loans as a percentage of average interest-earning assets were 73 percent in 2010 and 75 percent in 2009. The categories, which are comprised of interest-earning assets, are shown in Table 3 “Consolidated Average Daily Balances and Yield/Rate Analysis”.

The proportion of average interest-earning assets to average total assets measures the effectiveness of management’s efforts to invest available funds into the most profitable interest-earning vehicles and represented 88 percent for both 2010 and 2009. This measure was consistent with the prior year as the overwhelming majority of the decline in total assets in 2010 was in interest-earning assets. Funding for Regions’ interest-earning assets comes from interest-bearing and non-interest-bearing sources. Another significant factor affecting the net interest margin is the percentage of interest-earning assets funded by interest-bearing liabilities. The percentage of average interest-earning assets funded by average interest-bearing liabilities was 77 percent in 2010 and 80 percent in 2009, also affected by the aforementioned increase in deposits in other banks.

Table 4 “Volume and Yield/Rate Variances” provides additional information with which to analyze the changes in net interest income.

Provision for Loan Losses

The provision for loan losses is used to maintain the allowance for loan losses at a level that, in management’s judgment, is adequate to cover losses inherent in the portfolio at the balance sheet date. During 2010, the provision for loan losses was $2.9 billion and net charge-offs were $2.8 billion. This compares to a provision for loan losses of $3.5 billion and net charge-offs of $2.3 billion in 2009. The decrease in the provision over charge-offs reflects moderating credit quality.

For further discussion and analysis of the total allowance for credit losses, see the “Risk Management” section found later in this report. See also Note 5 “Allowance for Credit Losses” to the consolidated financial statements.

NON-INTEREST INCOME

Non-interest income represents fees and income derived from sources other than interest-earning assets. Table 5 “Non-Interest Income” provides a detail of the components of non-interest income. Non-interest income totaled $3.5 billion in 2010 compared to $3.8 billion in 2009. The decrease in non-interest income is primarily due to revenue generated from unwinding certain leveraged lease transactions in 2009. However, this decrease in revenue was offset by a reduction in the related income tax expense, resulting in an insignificant aggregate impact to net income. Excluding the leveraged lease terminations, results reflected an increase in service charges income, brokerage, investment banking and capital markets income, and securities gains. Offsetting these increases, mortgage income declined, resulting from market valuation adjustments for mortgage servicing rights and related derivatives. Non-interest income (excluding securities transactions and leveraged lease gains) as a percent of total revenue (on a fully taxable-equivalent basis) was 44 percent in 2010 and 2009.

 

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Table 5—Non-Interest Income

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2010      2009      2008  
     (In millions)  

Service charges on deposit accounts

   $ 1,174       $ 1,156       $ 1,148   

Brokerage, investment banking and capital markets

     1,059         989         1,027   

Mortgage income

     247         259         138   

Trust department income

     196         191         234   

Securities gains (losses), net

     394         69         92   

Insurance commissions and fees

     104         105         110   

Leveraged lease termination gains

     78         587         —     

Gain on early extinguishment of debt

     —           61         —     

Visa-related gains

     —           80         63   

Commercial credit fee income

     76         70         68   

Bank-owned life insurance

     88         74         78   

Other miscellaneous income

     115         114         115   
                          
   $ 3,531       $ 3,755       $ 3,073   
                          

Service Charges on Deposit Accounts

Income from service charges on deposit accounts increased 2 percent and totaled $1.2 billion in both 2010 and 2009. This modest increase was due to a higher level of customer transactions and new account growth that began in 2009 and continued into 2010. These factors were slightly offset by policy changes, as well as changes related to Regulation E. Service charges will continue to be negatively impacted going forward by the policy changes and new regulations.

Interchange income, which is included in service charges on deposit accounts, will be impacted by the Federal Reserve’s rulemaking required by section 1075 of the Dodd-Frank Act. In December 2010, the Federal Reserve issued a proposed rule that would establish debit card interchange fee standards based upon one of two proposed alternatives. One alternative is an issuer-specific standard with a safe harbor set at 7 cents per transaction. The other alternative is a stand-alone cap set at 12 cents per transaction. Neither alternative makes a distinction between PIN or signature transactions and under both alternatives, the interchange fee will be much lower than 44 cents per transaction which is the average amount charged for all debit transactions according to the Federal Reserve’s study on interchange transactions. Total revenues from debit card income at Regions were $346 million in 2010 and without mitigating actions could potentially be negatively impacted going forward. Based on the current proposed rule, Regions Bank’s revenues from interchange fees would likely be reduced to approximately one quarter of current levels, based on the 12 cent alternative described above. While the final regulations are not yet known, they may have an adverse affect on Regions’ business, financial condition or results of operations.

Brokerage, Investment Banking and Capital Markets and Trust Department Income

Regions’ primary source of brokerage, investment banking and capital markets and trust revenue is its subsidiary, Morgan Keegan. Morgan Keegan’s revenues are predominantly recorded in the brokerage, investment banking and capital markets, as well as trust department income lines of the consolidated statements of operations, while a smaller portion is reported in other non-interest income. As of December 31, 2010, Morgan Keegan employed approximately 1,200 financial advisors. Morgan Keegan contributed $1.3 billion in total revenues in both 2010 and 2009.

 

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Total brokerage, investment banking and capital markets revenues increased 7 percent to $1.1 billion in 2010 from $989 million in 2009, primarily due to an increase in the investment banking and private client brokerage services divisions. Results for 2010 reflect strength in these divisions, which is due in part to strategic acquisitions that were made in specialized industries in recent years. Customer and trust assets under management were approximately $80.0 billion and $77.0 billion, respectively, at year-end 2010 compared to approximately $75.5 billion and $70.0 billion, respectively, at year-end 2009. The rise in assets under management is primarily driven by a higher amount of asset inflows and higher end-of-period asset valuations than in the prior year.

Revenues from the private client division increased 15 percent to $476 million, and accounted for 36 percent of Morgan Keegan’s total revenue in 2010, compared to $415 million or 32 percent in 2009. Fixed-income capital markets revenues decreased $38 million to $322 million, as compared to $360 million in 2009, although revenues remained higher than in previous years, driven by institutional customers’ demand for government, mortgage-backed and municipal securities. Equity capital markets revenue was negatively impacted by the financial turmoil beginning in late 2008 and continuing through 2010. Equity capital markets revenues totaled $55 million in 2010, compared to $59 million in 2009. Investment banking revenues increased $47 million to $151 million as the division had success within its specialized industries, such as oil and gas, healthcare and technology. Trust revenues increased 7 percent to $211 million in 2010, impacted by higher average asset valuations. The asset management division produced $15 million of revenue in 2010 compared to $39 million in 2009, pressured by a lower amount of fees from commissions.

Morgan Keegan’s net income was negatively affected during 2010 by a $200 million regulatory charge related to certain funds previously administered by Morgan Keegan and Morgan Asset Management. This charge is nondeductible for income tax purposes. See Note 23 “Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees” to the consolidated financial statements for further information.

See Note 22 “Business Segment Information” for details of net income contributed by Morgan Keegan for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and Table 6 “Morgan Keegan Revenue by Division” which illustrates Morgan Keegan’s revenues by division for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008.

Table 6—Morgan Keegan Revenue by Division

 

    Year Ended December 31  
    Private
Client
    Fixed-Income
Capital
Markets
    Equity
Capital
Markets
    Investment
Banking
    Regions
MK Trust
    Asset
Management
    Interest
and Other
    Total  
    (Dollars in millions)  

2010

               

Gross revenue

  $ 476      $ 322      $ 55      $ 151      $ 211      $ 15      $ 89      $ 1,319   

Percent of gross revenue

    36.1     24.4     4.2     11.4     16.0     1.1     6.8  

2009

               

Gross revenue

  $ 415      $ 360      $ 59      $ 104      $ 197      $ 39      $ 108      $ 1,282   

Percent of gross revenue

    32.4     28.1     4.6     8.1     15.4     3.0     8.4  

2008

               

Gross revenue

  $ 440      $ 266      $ 58      $ 158      $ 270      $ 31      $ 117      $ 1,340   

Percent of gross revenue

    32.8     19.9     4.3     11.8     20.2     2.3     8.7  

 

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Mortgage Income

Mortgage income is generated through the origination and servicing of mortgage loans for long-term investors and sales of mortgage loans in the secondary market. Mortgage income decreased $12 million, or 5 percent to $247 million in 2010. The decrease was primarily driven by lower mortgage origination volume in 2010 as compared to 2009 due to decreased refinance activity during 2010 as compared to 2009. Mortgage originations totaled $8.2 billion in 2010 as compared to $9.6 billion in 2009. However, the decrease in origination income was partially offset by market valuation adjustments for mortgage servicing rights and related derivatives which added $16 million and $13 million to mortgage income in 2010 and 2009, respectively. See Note 21 “Fair Value of Financial Instruments” to the consolidated financial statements for further detail.

Effective January 1, 2009, Regions made an election to prospectively change the policy for accounting for residential mortgage servicing rights from the amortization method to the fair value measurement method. Under the fair value measurement method, servicing assets are measured at fair value each period with changes in fair value recorded as a component of mortgage banking income. Regions uses various derivative instruments to mitigate the effect of changes in the fair value of its mortgage servicing rights. Beginning in the fourth quarter of 2009, the Company also began using trading assets to mitigate the impact of changes in the fair value of its mortgage servicing rights. Because changes in value of trading assets are reported in brokerage income, and because earnings on these assets are reported in net interest income, the total effect of mortgage servicing rights and related hedging instruments impacts several line items in the statements of operations, as illustrated in Table 7.

Table 7—Categorization of Income Related to Mortgage Servicing Rights and Related Hedging Instruments

 

     2010      2009  
     (In millions)  

Net interest income

   $ 3       $ 20   

Brokerage income

     4         4   

Mortgage income

     16         13   
                 
   $ 23       $ 37   
                 

At December 31, 2010, Regions’ servicing portfolio totaled $41.7 billion, $26.0 billion of which was serviced for third parties. At December 31, 2009, the servicing portfolio totaled $39.7 billion, $23.3 billion of which was serviced for third parties.

During 2008, the Company sold mortgage servicing rights on approximately $3.4 billion of Government National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”) loans and recognized a loss of $15 million, including transaction costs. The Company did not sell any mortgage servicing rights in 2010 or 2009.

Securities Gains (Losses), Net

Regions reported net gains of $394 million from the sale of securities available for sale in 2010, as compared to net gains of $69 million in 2009. In 2010, the company repositioned its securities portfolio and sold $9.9 billion to mitigate prepayment risk and extended the duration on the investment portfolio. In 2009, the company significantly reduced its exposure in non-agency investment securities, collateralized mortgage-backed securities and municipal bonds and through these measures sold $5.4 billion and incurred some losses on the sales. The Company’s gains were due to increased sales activity within the available for sale category as part of the Company’s asset/liability management strategies. The proceeds from the sales in 2010 and 2009 were reinvested in U.S. government agency mortgage-backed securities classified as available for sale. Refer to the “Securities” section in the “Balance Sheet Analysis” for further discussion.

 

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In January 2011, Regions sold approximately $1.5 billion in securities, primarily agency mortgage-backed securities, and recognized a net pre-tax gain of approximately $52 million.

Leveraged Lease Termination Gains

A 2008 settlement with the IRS negatively impacted the economics of Regions’ leveraged lease portfolio. In addition, there was a mutual desire with lessees to terminate certain leases within this portfolio. Accordingly, the Company decided to terminate certain of these leases in 2010 and 2009, resulting in gains of $78 million and $587 million, respectively. However, these gains were essentially offset by related income tax expense of $74 million and $589 million, respectively, resulting in a minimal impact to net income.

Gain on Early Extinguishment of Debt

During 2009, Regions completed an exchange of common shares for outstanding 6.625 percent Trust Preferred Securities issued by Regions Financing Trust II (“the Trust”). In connection with this exchange, the Company recognized a gain on extinguishment of junior subordinated debt issued to the Trust. The extinguishment resulted in an increase to non-interest income of $61 million in 2009. For further details, see Note 14 “Stockholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Income (Loss)” to the consolidated financial statements.

Visa-Related Gains

In early 2008, Visa executed an initial public offering (“IPO”) of common stock and, in connection with the IPO, Regions’ ownership interest in Visa was converted into approximately 3.8 million shares of Class B common stock. In late 2008, Regions recognized a $63 million gain upon the redemption of these shares. In 2009, Regions sold its remaining Visa Class B common stock resulting in an $80 million gain. For further details, see Note 23 “Commitments, Contingencies, and Guarantees” to the consolidated financial statements.

Bank-Owned Life Insurance

Bank-owned life insurance income increased 19 percent to $88 million in 2010, compared to $74 million in 2009. This increase is primarily due to changes in crediting rates related to the insurance policies.

NON-INTEREST EXPENSE

The following section contains a discussion of non-interest expense from continuing operations. The largest components of non-interest expense are salaries and employee benefits, net occupancy expense and furniture and equipment expense. Non-interest expense in 2010 included a $200 million regulatory charge. Non-interest expense, excluding the regulatory charge, increased $34 million, or 1 percent, to $4.8 billion in 2010. Non-interest expense in 2008 included a $6.0 billion non-cash goodwill impairment charge and merger-related charges totaling $201 million.

Table 8 “Non-Interest Expense (including Non-GAAP reconciliation)” presents major non-interest expense components, both including and excluding the regulatory charge, merger-related charges and goodwill impairment, for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008. Management believes Table 8 is useful in evaluating trends in non-interest expense. Note that merger-related charges as shown in this table relate to Regions’ acquisition of AmSouth in November 2006. See Table 2 “GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation” and the text preceding it for further discussion of non-GAAP financial measures.

 

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Table 8—Non-Interest Expense (including Non-GAAP reconciliation)

 

     As Reported (GAAP)  
     2010      2009      2008  
     (In millions)  

Salaries and employee benefits

   $ 2,318       $ 2,269       $ 2,356   

Net occupancy expense

     448         454         442   

Furniture and equipment expense

     304         311         335   

Professional and legal fees

     303         309         214   

Amortization of core deposit intangibles

     107         120         134   

Other real estate owned expense

     209         175         103   

Marketing

     68         75         97   

Goodwill impairment

     —           —           6,000   

Other-than-temporary impairments

     2         75         23   

Mortgage servicing rights impairment

     —           —           85   

FDIC special assessment

     —           64         —     

FDIC premiums

     220         163         15   

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     108         —           66   

Regulatory charge

     200         —           —     

Other miscellaneous expenses

     698         736         922   
                          
   $ 4,985       $ 4,751       $ 10,792   
                          
     Regulatory Charge,
Merger-Related Charges and
Goodwill Impairment
 
     2010      2009      2008  
     (In millions)  

Salaries and employee benefits

   $ —         $ —         $ 134   

Net occupancy expense

     —           —           4   

Furniture and equipment expense

     —           —           5   

Professional and legal fees

     —           —           7   

Amortization of core deposit intangibles

     —           —           —     

Other real estate owned expense

     —           —           —     

Marketing

     —           —           13   

Goodwill impairment

     —           —           6,000   

Other-than-temporary impairments

     —           —           —     

Mortgage servicing rights impairment

     —           —           —     

FDIC special assessment

     —           —           —     

FDIC premiums

     —           —           —     

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     —           —           —     

Regulatory charge

     200         —           —     

Other miscellaneous expenses

     —           —           38   
                          
   $ 200       $ —         $ 6,201   
                          
     As Adjusted (Non-GAAP)  
     2010      2009      2008  
     (In millions)  

Salaries and employee benefits

   $ 2,318       $ 2,269       $ 2,222   

Net occupancy expense

     448         454         438   

Furniture and equipment expense

     304         311         330   

Professional and legal fees

     303         309         207   

Amortization of core deposit intangibles

     107         120         134   

Other real estate owned expense

     209         175         103   

Marketing

     68         75         84   

Goodwill impairment

     —           —           —     

Other-than-temporary impairments

     2         75         23   

Mortgage servicing rights impairment

     —           —           85   

FDIC special assessment

     —           64         —     

FDIC premiums

     220         163         15   

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     108         —           66   

Regulatory charge

     —           —           —     

Other miscellaneous expenses

     698         736         884   
                          
   $ 4,785       $ 4,751       $ 4,591   
                          

 

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Salaries and Employee Benefits

Total salaries and employee benefits increased $49 million, or 2 percent, in 2010. The year-over-year increase in salaries and employee benefits cost is due to higher pension and 401(k) expense as explained below. Although salaries and benefits expense increased, headcount was reduced approximately 2 percent in 2010. At December 31, 2010, Regions had 27,829 employees compared to 28,509 at December 31, 2009.

Regions provides employees who meet established employment requirements with a benefits package that includes 401(k), pension, and medical, life and disability insurance plans. New enrollment in the Regions pension plan ended effective December 31, 2000. New enrollment in the legacy AmSouth pension plan ended effective with the merger date, November 4, 2006. Former AmSouth employees enrolled as of November 4, 2006 continue to be active in the plan, but no additional participants will be added. Effective September 30, 2007, the two pension plans merged into one plan. Regions’ 401(k) plan includes a company match of eligible employee contributions. The Company temporarily suspended the pension service credit and the company match for eligible employee contributions in early 2009; however, the Company restored these benefits in January 2010. The temporary suspensions contributed to the increase in salaries and employee benefits in 2010 as compared to 2009. See Note 17 “Pension and Other Employee Benefit Plans” to the consolidated financial statements for further details.

There are various incentive plans in place in many of Regions’ lines of business that are tied to the performance levels of employees. At Morgan Keegan, commissions and incentives are a key component of compensation, which is typical in the brokerage and investment banking industry. In general, incentives are used to reward employees for selling products and services, for productivity improvements and for achievement of corporate financial goals. These achievements are determined through a review of profitability and risk management. Regions’ long-term incentive plan provides for the granting of stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units and performance shares. See Note 16 “Share-Based Payments” to the consolidated financial statements for further information.

Net Occupancy Expense

Net occupancy expense includes rents, depreciation and amortization, utilities, maintenance, insurance, taxes, and other expenses of premises occupied by Regions and its affiliates. Occupancy expense decreased $6 million, or 1 percent, in 2010 primarily due to charges incurred in 2009 associated with the decision to consolidate 121 branches.

Furniture and Equipment Expense

Furniture and equipment expense decreased $7 million to $304 million in 2010. This decrease is primarily due to branch consolidation charges of $7 million incurred in 2009.

Professional and Legal Fees

Professional and legal fees are comprised of amounts related to legal, consulting and other professional fees. These fees decreased $6 million to $303 million in 2010, reflecting a reduction in the level of legal expenses incurred at Morgan Keegan and credit-related legal costs in 2010. Legal expenses, however, remained elevated in 2010. Refer to Note 23 “Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees” to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.

Amortization of Core Deposit Intangibles

The premium paid for core deposits in an acquisition is considered to be an intangible asset that is amortized on an accelerated basis over its useful life. As a result, amortization of core deposit intangibles decreased 11 percent to $107 million in 2010 compared to $120 million in 2009.

 

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Other Real Estate Owned Expense

Other real estate owned (“OREO”) expenses include the cost of adjusting foreclosed properties to fair value after these assets have been classified as OREO and net gains and losses on sales of properties, as well as other costs to maintain the property such as property taxes, security, and grounds maintenance. Through Regions’ efforts to sell foreclosed properties, OREO balances decreased $153 million to $454 million in 2010 compared to $607 million in 2009. OREO expense increased $34 million to $209 million in 2010 compared to $175 million in 2009, primarily driven by valuation declines resulting from further deterioration of the housing and real estate markets. See Note 9 “Foreclosed Properties” to the consolidated financial statements for more information.

Other-Than-Temporary Impairments (“OTTI”)

OTTI decreased $73 million during 2010 to $2 million compared to $75 million in 2009. The 2009 charges are net of the non-credit portion recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Other-than-temporary impairment charges were minimal in 2010 due to the Company’s efforts to de-risk the portfolio and the resulting portfolio composition. Refer to Note 3 “Securities” to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion.

FDIC Premiums and Special Assessment

FDIC premiums increased in 2010 by $57 million to $220 million. The increases resulted from higher premium rates applied to a higher level of insured deposit balances. On October 7, 2008, the FDIC increased the rates banks pay for deposit insurance, while at the same time making adjustments to the system that determines the rate a bank pays the FDIC. Under this and additional proposals, the assessment rate schedule was raised on January 1, 2009. The bank regulatory agencies’ ratings, comprised of Regions Bank’s capital, asset quality, management, earnings, liquidity and sensitivity to risk, along with its long-term debt issuer ratings and financial ratios are the primary factors in determining FDIC insurance premiums.

During early 2009, Regions utilized its remaining assessment credits, which had previously offset a substantial portion of premium cost. Regions qualified for a credit of approximately $110 million, which was applied toward premiums in 2009, 2008 and 2007, thereby exhausting the credit. Under existing federal regulations, every FDIC-insured institution will pay some level of deposit insurance assessments regardless of the level of the designated reserve ratio. Regions incurred a $64 million special assessment in 2009 to help replenish the Deposit Insurance Fund. Additionally, the FDIC required all institutions to prepay, by December 31, 2009, estimated assessments for all of 2010, 2011 and 2012 based on the 2009 fourth quarter assessment rate.

In February 2011, the FDIC adopted a final rule (the “New Assessment Rule”) to revise the deposit insurance assessment system for large institutions. The New Assessment Rule changed the assessment base from deposits as the basis and utilizes a risk-based approach which calculates the assessment using average consolidated assets minus average tangible equity. Implementation of the New Assessment Rule is expected to result in an increase in FDIC expense beginning in the second quarter of 2011. For a more detailed discussion of the FDIC insurance assessment methodology and proposed changes, see the “Supervision and Regulation – FDIC Insurance Assessments” section of “Item 1. Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Loss on Early Extinguishment of Debt

During 2010, Regions prepaid approximately $2.0 billion of FHLB advances, realizing a $108 million pre-tax loss on early extinguishment. These extinguishments were part of the Company’s asset/liability management process.

Regulatory Charge

On April 7, 2010, the SEC, a joint state task force of securities regulators from Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, and South Carolina and FINRA announced that they were commencing administrative proceedings

 

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against Morgan Keegan, Morgan Asset Management and certain of their employees for violations of federal and state securities laws and NASD rules relating to certain funds previously administered by Morgan Keegan and Morgan Asset Management. Based on the status of settlement negotiations, Regions believed that a loss on the matter was probable and reasonably estimable. Accordingly, at June 30, 2010, Morgan Keegan recorded a non-tax deductible $200 million charge representing the estimate of probable loss. Settlement negotiations and trial preparations are ongoing. Refer to Note 23 “Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees” to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.

Other Miscellaneous Expenses

Other miscellaneous expenses include communications, postage, supplies, credit-related costs and business development services. Other miscellaneous expenses decreased $38 million to $698 million in 2010. The decline in 2010 was driven by various categories, including those listed above.

INCOME TAXES

The Company’s income tax benefit for 2010 was $346 million compared to a tax benefit of $171 million in 2009, resulting in an effective tax rate of 39.1 percent and 14.2 percent, respectively. The increase in income tax benefit reflects the impact of the decline in the number and amount of leveraged lease terminations offset by the recognition of the nondeductible regulatory charge and the decrease in the consolidated pre-tax loss.

The Company’s effective tax rate is affected by recurring items such as affordable housing tax credits, bank-owned life insurance and tax-exempt income, which are expected to be consistent in the near term. The effective tax rate is also affected by one-time items that may occur in any given period but are not consistent from period to period, such as the termination of certain leveraged leases and expenses that are nondeductible for income tax purposes. Accordingly, future period effective tax rates may not be comparable to the current period.

At December 31, 2010, the Company reported a net deferred tax asset of $1.4 billion. Of this amount, $960 million was generated from differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the corresponding tax bases of assets and liabilities, of which a significant portion relates to the allowance for loan losses. These net deferred tax assets have not yet reduced taxable income and therefore, do not have a set expiration date. The remaining $427 million net deferred tax asset balance relates to tax carryforwards that have defined expiration dates which are typically 15 or 20 years from the date of creation. Of the $427 million, $92 million of this deferred tax asset is related to tax carryforwards that have expiration dates prior to the tax year 2023, and a valuation allowance of $14 million exists against these amounts.

Management’s determination of the realization of the net deferred tax asset is based upon an evaluation of the four possible sources of taxable income: 1) the future reversals of taxable temporary differences; 2) future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards; 3) taxable income in prior carryback years; and 4) tax-planning strategies. In making a conclusion, management has evaluated all available positive and negative evidence impacting these sources of taxable income. The primary sources of positive and negative evidence impacting taxable income are summarized below.

Positive Evidence

 

   

History of earnings—The Company has a strong history of generating earnings and has demonstrated positive earnings in 17 of the last 20 years with the prior three years’ results of operations being impacted by unprecedented credit losses. Absent the $6.0 billion goodwill impairment charge during 2008, which had no impact on taxable net income reported on the Company’s tax returns, the Company would have generated positive earnings during that year leaving only 2009 and 2010 in loss positions. The Company did not generate any federal net operating losses or tax credit carryforwards until 2009, thus there is no history of significant tax carryforwards expiring unused.

 

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Reversals of taxable temporary differences—The Company anticipates that future reversals of taxable temporary differences, including the accretion of taxable temporary differences related to leveraged leases acquired in the AmSouth merger, can absorb up to approximately $1.0 billion of deferred tax assets.

 

   

Creation of future taxable income—At December 31, 2010, the Company utilized all taxable income in prior carryback years. The Company has projected future taxable income that will be sufficient to absorb the remaining deferred tax assets after the reversal of future taxable temporary differences. The taxable income forecasting process utilizes the forecasted pre-tax earnings and adjusts for book-tax differences that will be exempt from taxation, primarily tax-exempt interest income and bank-owned life insurance, as well as temporary book-tax differences including the allowance for loan losses. The projections relied upon for this process are consistent with those used in the goodwill impairment test and are sourced from the Company’s economic forecasting process.

 

   

Strong capital position—At December 31, 2010, the Company had a Tier 1 capital ratio of 12.40 percent, substantially above the 6.0 percent minimum standard to be well capitalized. Also, the Total capital ratio of 16.35 percent substantially exceeds the 10.0 percent minimum standard to be well capitalized. The Company’s Tier 1 common ratio (non-GAAP) was 7.85 percent at December 31, 2010 (see Table 2 “GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation” for further details). The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System has identified 4 percent as the level of Tier 1 common capital sufficient to withstand adverse economic scenarios.

 

   

Ability to implement tax-planning strategies—The Company has the ability to implement tax planning strategies to maximize the realization of deferred tax assets, such as the sale of appreciated assets. As an example, during 2010, the Company reported net pre-tax gains of $394 million from the sale of securities available for sale. At December 31, 2010, the Company’s portfolio of securities available for sale had $283 million of gross unrealized pre-tax gains which could absorb $108 million of deferred tax assets, which management would consider being a tax planning strategy to maximize the realization of the deferred tax assets.

Negative Evidence

 

   

Cumulative loss position—The Company is currently in a three-year cumulative loss position. Excluding the $6.0 billion goodwill impairment charge during 2008 and the $200 million regulatory charge taken in 2010, as these items were nondeductible for tax purposes, the cumulative pre-tax loss position for 2008 through 2010 is $1.8 billion. The cumulative loss has resulted from the unprecedented provision for loan losses of $8.5 billion during these periods, which management believes will continue to stabilize in future periods. During 2010, the provision for loan losses decreased $678 million to $2.9 billion, as compared to the provision for loan losses of $3.5 billion in 2009. Additionally, Regions reported positive net income available to common shareholders for the fourth quarter of 2010, providing positive evidence regarding the Company’s earnings.

The Company believes the positive evidence, when considered in its entirety, outweighs the negative evidence of recent pre-tax losses.

See Note 1 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 19 “Income Taxes” to the consolidated financial statements for additional information about income taxes.

BALANCE SHEET ANALYSIS

At December 31, 2010, Regions reported total assets of $132.4 billion compared to $142.3 billion at the end of 2009, a decrease of approximately $10.0 billion or 7 percent. The balance sheet decline reflects a decrease in loans outstanding, primarily investor real estate balances, as well as a decrease in trading account assets.

 

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Loans

Average loans, net of unearned income, represented 73 percent of average interest-earning assets for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to 75 percent of average interest-earning assets for the year ended December 31, 2009. Lending at Regions is generally organized along three portfolio segments: commercial (including commercial and industrial, and owner occupied commercial real estate mortgage and construction loans), investor real estate loans (commercial real estate mortgage and construction loans) and consumer loans (residential first mortgage, home equity, indirect and other consumer loans).

Regions manages loan growth with a focus on risk management and risk-adjusted return on capital. However, loan balances have declined between years as a result of decreased loan demand in response to economic pressures and management’s efforts to reduce riskier loan portfolios, such as investor real estate.

Table 9 illustrates a year-over-year comparison of loans by loan type and Table 10 provides information on selected loan maturities.

Table 9—Loan Portfolio

 

     2010      2009      2008  
     (In millions, net of
unearned income)
 

Commercial and industrial

   $ 22,540       $ 21,547       $ 23,596   

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner occupied

     12,046         12,054         11,722   

Commercial real estate construction—owner occupied

     470         751         1,605   
                          

Total commercial

     35,056         34,352         36,923   

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

     13,621         16,109         14,486   

Commercial investor real estate construction

     2,287         5,591         9,029   
                          

Total investor real estate

     15,908         21,700         23,515   

Residential first mortgage

     14,898         15,632         15,839   

Home equity

     14,226         15,381         16,130   

Indirect

     1,592         2,452         3,854   

Other consumer

     1,184         1,157         1,158   
                          

Total consumer

     31,900         34,622         36,981   
                          
   $ 82,864       $ 90,674       $ 97,419   
                          

 

     2007      2006  
     (In millions, net of
unearned income)
 

Commercial and industrial

   $ 20,907       $ 24,145   

Commercial real estate(1)

     23,107         19,646   

Commercial real estate construction(1)

     13,302         14,121   

Residential first mortgage

     16,960         15,584   

Home equity

     14,962         14,889   

Indirect

     3,938         4,038   

Other consumer

     2,203         2,128   
                 
   $ 95,379       $ 94,551   
                 

 

(1) Breakout of commercial real estate mortgage and construction between owner occupied and investor categories is not available for periods prior to 2008.

 

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Table 10—Selected Loan Maturities

 

     Loans Maturing  
     Within
One Year
     After One
But Within
Five Years
     After
Five Years
     Total  
     (In millions)  

Commercial and industrial

   $ 6,441       $ 11,772       $ 4,327       $ 22,540   

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner-occupied

     2,027         6,181         3,838         12,046   

Commercial real estate construction—owner occupied

     70         113         287         470   
                                   

Total commercial

     8,538         18,066         8,452         35,056   

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

     7,054         5,814         753         13,621   

Commercial investor real estate construction

     1,765         474         48         2,287   
                                   

Total investor real estate

     8,819         6,288         801         15,908   
                                   
   $ 17,357       $ 24,354       $ 9,253       $ 50,964   
                                   

 

     Predetermined
Rate
     Variable
Rate
 
     (In millions)  

Due after one year but within five years

   $ 6,187       $ 18,167   

Due after five years

     4,405         4,848   
                 
   $ 10,592       $ 23,015   
                 

 

Note: Table 10 excludes residential first mortgage, home equity, indirect and other consumer loans.

The following sections describe the composition of the portfolio classes in Table 9 and explain variations in balances from the 2009 year-end. See the “Credit Risk” section later in this report for discussion of risk characteristics in these categories and Regions’ management of those risks.

Commercial—The Commercial category includes commercial and industrial, representing loans to commercial customers for use in normal business operations to finance working capital needs, equipment purchases and other expansion projects. Commercial also includes owner-occupied commercial real estate loans to operating businesses, which are loans for long-term financing of land and buildings, and are repaid by cash flow generated by business operations. Owner-occupied construction loans are made to commercial businesses for the development of land or construction of a building where the repayment is derived from revenues generated from the business of the borrower. During 2010, total commercial loan balances increased 2 percent, initially driven by growth experienced in certain specialty lending groups such as healthcare and energy in the Texas, Tennessee and Georgia markets. These industries have higher capital needs. Later in 2010, the growth continued more broadly across other categories and markets.

Investor Real Estate—Loans for real estate development are repaid through cash flow related to the operation, sale or refinance of the property. This portfolio segment includes extensions of credit to real estate developers or investors where repayment is dependent on the sale of real estate or income generated from the real estate collateral. A portion of Regions’ investor real estate portfolio segment is comprised of loans secured by residential product types (land, single-family and condominium loans) within Regions’ markets. Additionally, this category includes loans made to finance income-producing properties such as apartment buildings, office and industrial buildings, and retail shopping centers. The investor real estate loan segment decreased $5.8 billion from 2009 balances primarily due to strategic decisions to reduce the concentration in investor real estate in response to credit risk and economic pressure. Regions’ goal is to reduce the investor real estate portfolio segment below one hundred percent of Regions Bank’s risk-based capital, which would have been approximately $14 billion as of December 31, 2010. A full discussion of these developments is included in the “Credit Risk” section later in this report.

 

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Residential First Mortgage—Residential first mortgage loans represent loans to consumers to finance a residence. These loans are typically financed over a 15 to 30 year term and, in most cases, are extended to borrowers to finance their primary residence. These loans experienced a $734 million decline to $14.9 billion in 2010, primarily due to a $965 million sale of residential first mortgages in the fourth quarter of 2010 in order to improve the Company’s capital and liquidity profile. Lower mortgage origination volume due to decreased net new refinance activity in 2010 as compared to 2009 also contributed to the decrease. Mortgage originations totaled $8.2 billion in 2010 as compared to $9.6 billion in 2009. Also, property values continued to decline, new and used home sales remained at historically low levels and credit markets contracted in general. See the “Credit Risk” section later in this report for additional discussion.

Home Equity—Home equity lending includes both home equity loans and lines of credit. This type of lending, which is secured by a first or second mortgage on the borrower’s residence, allows customers to borrow against the equity in their home. Real estate market values as of the time the loan or line is secured directly affect the amount of credit extended and, in addition, changes in these values impact the depth of potential losses. The vast majority of Regions’ home equity lending balances was originated through its branch network. During 2010, home equity balances decreased $1.2 billion to $14.2 billion, driven by the continued general decline in demand and lower property valuations across the Company’s operating footprint. During 2010, credit quality within the home equity portfolio continued to reflect pressure. Charge-offs during 2010 were elevated, but relatively stable as compared to 2009. The majority of the credit losses from this portfolio are related to loans where the collateral is a second lien located in Florida. A full discussion of these developments is included in the “Credit Risk” section later in this report.

Indirect—Indirect lending, which is lending initiated through third-party business partners, is largely comprised of loans made through automotive dealerships. This portfolio class decreased $860 million or 35 percent in 2010, reflecting the 2008 suspension of new originations within the indirect auto lending business and the 2007 suspension of the marine and recreational vehicle lending business. Beginning in late 2010, the Company re-entered the indirect auto lending business.

Other Consumer—Other consumer loans include direct consumer installment loans, overdrafts and other revolving credit, and educational loans. Other consumer loans totaled $1.2 billion at December 31, 2010, relatively unchanged from the prior year.

Loans Held for Sale

At December 31, 2010, loans held for sale totaled $1.5 billion, consisting of $1.2 billion of residential real estate mortgage loans and $304 million of non-performing investor real estate loans. At December 31, 2009, loans held for sale also totaled $1.5 billion, consisting of $783 million of residential real estate mortgage loans, $411 million of student loans and $317 million of non-performing investor real estate loans. The level of residential real estate mortgage and student loans held for sale fluctuates depending on the timing of origination and sale to third parties.

Allowance for Credit Losses

The allowance for credit losses represents management’s estimate of credit losses inherent in both the loan portfolio and unfunded credit commitments as of the balance sheet date. The allowance consists of two components: the allowance for loans losses, which is recorded as a contra-asset to loans, and the reserve for unfunded credit commitments, which is recorded in other liabilities. At December 31, 2010, the allowance for credit losses totaled $3.3 billion or 3.93 percent of loans, net of unearned income, compared to $3.2 billion or 3.52 percent at year-end 2009. See “Allowance for Credit Losses” in the “Credit Risk” section found later in this report for a detailed discussion of the allowance.

 

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Securities

Regions utilizes the securities portfolio to manage liquidity, interest rate risk, and regulatory capital, as well as to take advantage of market conditions to generate a favorable return on investments without undue risk. The portfolio consists primarily of high-quality mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities. Securities represented 18 percent of total assets at December 31, 2010 compared to 17 percent at December 31, 2009. In 2010, total securities, which are almost entirely classified as available for sale, decreased $787 million, or 3 percent.

The “Market Risk-Interest Rate Risk” section, found later in this report, further explains Regions’ interest rate risk management practices. The weighted-average yield earned on securities, less equities, was 3.42 percent in 2010 and 4.22 percent in 2009. Table 11 “Securities” illustrates the carrying values of total securities by category.

Table 11—Securities

 

     2010      2009      2008  
     (In millions)  

U.S. Treasury securities

   $ 96       $ 57       $ 901   

Federal agency securities

     21         51         1,705   

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

     30         70         757   

Mortgage-backed securities:

        

Residential agency

     21,857         22,700         12,353   

Residential non-agency

     22         36         1,239   

Commercial agency

     112         21         757   

Commercial non-agency

     100         —           —     

Other debt securities

     27         21         21   

Equity securities

     1,048         1,144         1,164   
                          
   $ 23,313       $ 24,100       $ 18,897   
                          

From time to time, Regions sells securities classified as available for sale as part of the Company’s asset/liability management strategy. As part of this process, in the first quarter of 2010, Regions sold approximately $1.4 billion of residential agency securities available for sale and recognized a gain of approximately $59 million. The proceeds were reinvested into newer issue residential agency securities with slightly longer durations. Additionally, during the fourth quarter of 2010, Regions repositioned its agency mortgage-backed securities portfolio in order to mitigate prepayment risk associated with that portfolio. Regions sold approximately $8.2 billion of available for sale securities which primarily consisted of agency mortgage-backed securities. A gain of approximately $333 million was recognized on the sale. Proceeds from the fourth quarter sales were reinvested in similar agency securities with lower coupons and longer durations.

Regions continually analyzes relative value to the Company across fixed income asset classes. The current portfolio weighting to agency mortgage-backed securities is not optimal over a longer horizon. Agency mortgage-backed securities have an advantageous credit and liquidity profile, but also carry more prepayment risk than other types of securities. Regions expects to prudently balance these benefits and risks by expanding asset classes during 2011 and 2012, as appropriate opportunities arise.

Net unrealized gains and losses in the securities available for sale portfolio are included in stockholders’ equity as accumulated other comprehensive income or loss, net of tax. At December 31, 2010, securities available for sale included a net unrealized gain of $120 million, which represented the difference between the estimated fair value of these securities as of year-end and their amortized cost. The net unrealized gain represents $283 million in gross unrealized gains and $163 million in gross unrealized losses. At December 31, 2009, securities available for sale included a net unrealized gain of $431 million, comprised of $495 million in gross unrealized gains and $64 million in gross unrealized losses.

 

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The Company reviews its securities portfolio on a regular basis to determine if there are any conditions indicating that a security has other-than-temporary impairment. Factors considered in this determination include the length of time and the extent to which the market value has been below cost, the credit standing of the issuer, Regions’ intent to sell and whether it is more likely than not that the Company will have to sell the security before its market value recovers. During 2010, Regions recognized, in earnings, approximately $2 million of securities impairments, related to equity and other debt securities. During 2009, Regions recognized, in earnings, approximately $75 million of securities impairments, related primarily to non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities, equity securities, and a single municipal issuer. See Note 3 “Securities” to the consolidated financial statements for further details.

In January 2011, Regions sold approximately $1.5 billion in securities, primarily agency mortgage-backed securities, and recognized a net pre-tax gain of approximately $52 million.

Maturity Analysis—The average life of the securities portfolio (excluding equities) at December 31, 2010 was estimated to be 6.6 years, with a duration of approximately 3.4 years. These metrics compare with an estimated average life of 3.9 years, with a duration of approximately 1.9 years for the portfolio at December 31, 2009. Table 12 “Relative Contractual Maturities and Weighted-Average Yields for Securities” provides additional details.

Table 12—Relative Contractual Maturities and Weighted-Average Yields for Securities

 

     Securities Maturing  
     Within
One Year
    After One
But Within
Five Years
    After Five
But Within
Ten Years
    After
Ten Years
    Total  
     (Dollars in millions)  

Securities:

  

U.S. Treasury securities

   $ 11      $ 80      $ 5      $ —        $ 96   

Federal agency securities

     3        7        7        4        21   

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

     2        6        3        19        30   

Mortgage-backed securities

          

Residential agency

     —          172        1,412        20,273        21,857   

Residential non-agency

     —          —          —          22        22   

Commercial

     —          —          54        58        112   

Commercial non-agency

     —          35        15        50        100   

Other debt securities

     4        10        2        11        27   
                                        
   $ 20      $ 310      $ 1,498      $ 20,437      $ 22,265   
                                        

Weighted-average yield

     6.65     4.06     3.56     3.40     3.42

 

Notes:

1. The weighted-average yields are calculated on the basis of the yield to maturity based on the book value of each security. Weighted-average yields on tax-exempt obligations have been computed on a fully taxable-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 35 percent. Taxable-equivalent adjustments for the calculation of yields amounted to $0 as of December 31, 2010. Yields on tax-exempt obligations have not been adjusted for the non-deductible portion of interest expense used to finance the purchase of tax-exempt obligations.
2. Federal Reserve Bank stock, Federal Home Loan Bank stock, and equity stock of other corporations held by Regions are not included in the table above.

Portfolio Quality—Regions’ investment policy emphasizes credit quality and liquidity. Securities rated in the highest category by nationally recognized rating agencies and securities backed by the U.S. Government and government sponsored agencies, both on a direct and indirect basis, represented approximately 99 percent of the investment portfolio at December 31, 2010. All other securities rated below AAA, not backed by the U.S.

 

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Government or government sponsored agencies, or which are not rated represented less than one percent of total securities at year-end 2010. During 2009, due to the potential for downside price risk, the Company substantially eliminated its exposure in non-agency commercial mortgage-backed securities, non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities and municipal bonds. This was done in order to reduce credit risk within the portfolio. Regions increased its liquidity availability by reinvesting the proceeds in agency securities, including securities backed by GNMA.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits in other banks (including the Federal Reserve Bank), and Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell (which have a life of 90 days or less). At December 31, 2010, these assets totaled $6.9 billion as compared to $8.0 billion at December 31, 2009. The year-over-year decrease was primarily driven by a reduction in Regions’ interest-bearing deposits in other banks, primarily lower balances in its Federal Reserve Bank account.

Trading Account Assets

Trading account assets decreased $1.9 billion to $1.1 billion at December 31, 2010. The trading account assets are primarily held at Morgan Keegan. Also included in trading account assets are securities held in rabbi trusts related to deferred compensation plans. Trading account assets are carried at market value with changes in market value reflected in the consolidated statements of operations. At the end of 2009, Regions increased holdings of U.S. Treasury and Federal agency securities held for the purpose of hedging mortgage servicing rights (see Table 7 “Impact of Mortgage Servicing Rights and Related Hedging Instruments” for further discussion). The Company exited these positions in early 2010, driving the decrease in trading account assets. Table 13 “Trading Account Assets” provides a detail by type of security.

Table 13—Trading Account Assets

 

     December 31  
     2010      2009  
     (In millions)  

Trading account assets:

     

U.S. Treasury and Federal agency securities

   $ 370       $ 2,447   

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

     355         264   

Other securities

     391         328   
                 
   $ 1,116       $ 3,039   
                 

Premises and Equipment

Premises and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization, as applicable. Premises and equipment at December 31, 2010 decreased $99 million to $2.6 billion compared to year-end 2009. This decrease primarily resulted from the depreciation on the premises and equipment.

Goodwill

Goodwill totaled $5.6 billion at both December 31, 2010 and 2009. Refer to the “Critical Accounting Policies” section earlier in this report for detailed discussions of the Company’s methodology for testing goodwill for impairment. Refer to Note 1 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 8 “Intangible Assets” to the consolidated financial statements, for the methodologies and assumptions used in Step One of the goodwill impairment test. Refer to Note 21 “Fair Value Measurements” to the consolidated financial statements, for the fair value measurements of certain assets and liabilities and the valuation methodology of such pricing, which is also used for testing goodwill for impairment.

 

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Mortgage Servicing Rights

Mortgage servicing rights at December 31, 2010 totaled $267 million compared to $247 million at December 31, 2009. A summary of mortgage servicing rights is presented in Note 6 “Servicing of Financial Assets” to the consolidated financial statements. The balances shown represent the right to service mortgage loans that are owned by other investors. Mortgage servicing rights are presented at fair value as of December 31, 2010 and 2009.

On January 1, 2009, Regions began accounting for mortgage servicing rights at fair market value with any changes to fair value being recorded within mortgage income. Also, in early 2009, Regions entered into derivative and trading asset transactions to mitigate the impact of market value fluctuations related to mortgage servicing rights. However, derivative instruments entered into in the future could be materially different from the current risk profile of Regions’ current portfolio. See the “Mortgage Income” section earlier in this report for detail regarding the effect of mortgage servicing rights and related hedging items on Regions’ consolidated statement of operations.

Other Identifiable Intangible Assets

Other identifiable intangible assets, consisting primarily of core deposit intangibles, totaled $385 million at December 31, 2010 compared to $503 million at December 31, 2009. The year-over-year decline is mainly the result of amortization. Regions noted no indicators of impairment for any other identifiable intangible assets. See Note 8 “Intangible Assets” to the consolidated financial statements for further information.

Other Assets

Other assets increased $1.5 billion to $9.4 billion as of December 31, 2010. Securities sold but not yet settled near the end of 2010 primarily drove the increase. Net deferred income tax assets also contributed to the year-over-year increase, a portion of which resulted from sales of available for sale securities, which previously carried a deferred tax liability related to their unrealized gain. The increases were partially offset by amortization of prepaid FDIC premiums and reduced foreclosed properties balances.

DEPOSITS

Regions competes with other banking and financial services companies for a share of the deposit market. Regions’ ability to compete in the deposit market depends heavily on the pricing of its deposits and how effectively the Company meets customers’ needs. Regions employs various means to meet those needs and enhance competitiveness, such as providing a high level of customer service, competitive pricing and providing convenient branch locations for its customers. Regions also serves customers through providing centralized, high-quality banking services and alternative product delivery channels such as internet banking.

Deposits are Regions’ primary source of funds, providing funding for 81 percent of average interest-earning assets in 2010 and 75 percent of average interest-earning assets in 2009. Table 14 “Deposits” details year-over-year deposits on a period-ending basis. Total deposits as of year-end 2010 decreased $4.1 billion, or 4 percent, compared to year-end 2009. The overall decrease in deposits was primarily driven by decreases in customer time deposit accounts as a result of maturities. These decreases were partially offset by increases in domestic money market accounts. There has also been a shift from interest-bearing transaction accounts to non-interest-bearing demand accounts during the year. Regions continues to deepen and retain existing customer relationships, as well as develop new relationships through client acquisition, new checking products and money market rate offers.

Customer deposits, which are total deposits excluding deposits used for wholesale funding purposes, decreased by 4 percent to $94.6 billion on an ending basis during 2010. Decreases in customer time deposit accounts were the main source of decline. Growth in domestic money market accounts offset the decline. In 2008, the banking industry experienced very high deposit pricing due to liquidity concerns thereby accentuating pricing pressure on Regions and the industry as a whole. However, in 2009 and continuing into 2010, due to

 

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additional liquidity in the market, pricing rationale largely returned, enabling Regions to increase its low-cost customer deposits and reduce its total deposit costs from 1.35 percent in 2009 to 0.78 percent in 2010.

Table 14—Deposits

 

     2010      2009      2008  
     (In millions)  

Non-interest-bearing demand

   $ 25,733       $ 23,204       $ 18,457   

Savings accounts

     4,668         4,073         3,663   

Interest-bearing transaction accounts

     13,423         15,791         15,022   

Money market accounts—domestic

     27,420         23,291         19,471   

Money market accounts—foreign

     569         766         1,812   
                          

Low-cost deposits

     71,813         67,125         58,425   

Time deposits

     22,784         31,468         32,369   
                          

Customer deposits

     94,597         98,593         90,794   

Corporate Treasury deposits

        

Time deposits

     17         87         110   
                          

Total deposits

   $ 94,614       $ 98,680       $ 90,904   
                          

Regions elected to exit the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s (“FDIC”) Transaction Account Guarantee (“TAG”) program on July 1, 2010. The TAG program was a component of the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program, whereby the FDIC guarantees all funds held at participating institutions beyond the $250,000 deposit insurance limit in qualifying transaction accounts. Regions’ decision to exit the program did not have a significant impact on liquidity. When the Dodd-Frank Act was enacted in July 2010, it permanently increased the FDIC coverage limit to $250,000. Also as a result of the Dodd-Frank Act, effective as of December 31, 2010, unlimited coverage for non-interest bearing demand transaction accounts will be provided until January 1, 2013.

Within customer deposits, non-interest-bearing deposits increased $2.5 billion to $25.7 billion, driven by an increase in non-interest bearing deposits from commercial and small businesses and a mix shift from interest-bearing transaction accounts which decreased 15 percent to $13.4 billion. Non-interest-bearing deposits accounted for approximately 27 percent of total deposits at year-end 2010 as compared to 24 percent at year-end 2009. Savings balances increased $595 million to $4.7 billion, generally reflecting growing savings trends, spurred by economic uncertainty.

Domestic money market products, which exclude foreign money market accounts, are one of Regions’ most significant funding sources. These balances increased 18 percent in 2010 to $27.4 billion or 29 percent of total deposits, compared to 24 percent of total deposits in 2009 and 21 percent of total deposits in 2008. Money market accounts steadily increased throughout 2010. Also, foreign money market accounts decreased $197 million, or 26 percent, to $569 million in 2010.

Included in customer time deposits are certificates of deposit and individual retirement accounts. The balance of customer time deposits decreased 28 percent in 2010 to $22.8 billion compared to $31.5 billion in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to maturities with minimal reinvestment by customers as a result of a decline in rates offered on these products. Customer time deposits accounted for 24 percent of total deposits in 2010 compared to 32 percent in 2009.

Consistent with 2009, total treasury deposits, which are used mainly for overnight funding purposes, remained at low levels in 2010 as the Company continued to utilize customer-based funding and other sources. The Company’s choice of overnight funding sources is dependent on the Company’s particular funding needs and the relative attractiveness of each source.

 

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The sensitivity of Regions’ deposit rates to changes in market interest rates is reflected in Regions’ average interest rate paid on interest-bearing deposits. The rate paid on interest-bearing deposits decreased to 1.04 percent in 2010 from 1.73 percent in 2009, driven by the expiration of time deposits, the positive mix shift to lower customer products, and continuation of the low interest rate environment throughout 2010. Table 15 “Maturity of Time Deposits of $100,000 or More” presents maturities of time deposits of $100,000 or more at December 31, 2010 and 2009.

Table 15—Maturity of Time Deposits of $100,000 or More

 

     2010      2009  
     (In millions)  

Time deposits of $100,000 or more, maturing in:

     

3 months or less

   $ 1,878       $ 3,521   

Over 3 through 6 months

     1,396         1,332   

Over 6 through 12 months

     1,898         2,442   

Over 12 months

     3,679         5,349   
                 
   $ 8,851       $ 12,644   
                 

SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS

See Note 11 “Short-Term Borrowings” to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of these borrowings at December 31, 2010 and 2009.

COMPANY FUNDING SOURCES

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase used for funding purposes totaled $782 million at December 31, 2010, compared to $478 million at year-end 2009. The level of Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase can fluctuate significantly on a day-to-day basis, depending on funding requirements and which sources of funds are used to satisfy those needs. All such arrangements are considered typical of the banking and brokerage industries and are accounted for as borrowings.

As another source of funding, the Company utilized short-term borrowings through the issuance of FHLB advances. FHLB borrowings are used to satisfy short-term and long-term borrowing needs and can also fluctuate between periods. Short-term FHLB borrowings totaled $500 million at December 31, 2010 compared to $1.0 billion at December 31, 2009. The Company continues to utilize FHLB borrowings as a means to reduce overnight funding and diversify into slightly longer-term maturities at preferable rates. See Note 12 “Long-Term Borrowings”, to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion of Regions’ borrowing capacity with the FHLB.

As of December 31, 2010, Regions had $118 million outstanding in the Federal Reserve’s Treasury, Tax, and Loan Program, compared to $7 million at December 31, 2009. At December 31, 2010, Regions could borrow a maximum of approximately $16.6 billion from the Federal Reserve Bank Discount Window. See Note 4 “Loans” to the consolidated financial statements for further detail and discussion of loans pledged to the Federal Reserve Bank at December 31, 2010 and 2009.

Other short-term borrowings totaled $95 million at December 31, 2010 compared to $0 at December 31, 2009. This balance includes certain lines of credit that Morgan Keegan maintains with unaffiliated banks. The lines of credit provided for maximum borrowings of $640 million at December 31, 2010 and $585 million December 31, 2009.

During 2008, Regions was an active participant in the Federal Reserve’s Term Auction Facility (“TAF”) program, which was designed to address pressures in short-term funding markets, Regions continued to participate in TAF in the first half of 2009 but completely exited the program in July of 2009.

 

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Table 16 “Selected Short-Term Borrowings Data” provides selected information for certain short-term borrowings used for funding purposes for years 2010, 2009, and 2008. In past years, data for Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase for both company-funding purposes and customer-related borrowings was presented in the aggregate. Prior year amounts in Table 16 have been revised to conform to current year presentation.

Table 16—Selected Short-Term Borrowings Data

 

     2010     2009     2008  
     (Dollars in millions)  

Federal funds purchased:

      

Balance at year end

   $ 19      $ 30      $ 35   

Average outstanding (based on average daily balances)

     68        441        3,384   

Maximum amount outstanding at any month-end

     106        2,011        5,583   

Weighted-average interest rate at year end

     0.1     0.1     0.1

Weighted-average interest rate on amounts outstanding during the year (based on average daily balances)

     0.1     0.2     2.7

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase:

      

Balance at year end

   $ 763      $ 448      $ 428   

Average outstanding (based on average daily balances)

     456        724        803   

Maximum amount outstanding at any month-end

     1,151        1,445        1,107   

Weighted-average interest rate at year end

     0.3     0.4     1.9

Weighted-average interest rate on amounts outstanding during the year (based on average daily balances)

     0.2     0.9     2.8

Term Auction Facility:

      

Balance at year end

   $ —        $ —        $ 10,000   

Average outstanding (based on average daily balances)

     —          3,003        5,925   

Maximum amount outstanding at any month-end

     —          10,000        13,000   

Weighted-average interest rate at year end

     —       —       1.1

Weighted-average interest rate on amounts outstanding during the year (based on average daily balances)

     —       0.3     2.0

CUSTOMER-RELATED BORROWINGS

Repurchase agreements are also offered as commercial banking products as short-term investment opportunities for customers. The balance totaled $1.9 billion at December 31, 2010 compared to $1.4 billion at December 31, 2009. The level of these borrowings can fluctuate significantly on a day-to-day basis.

Regions, through Morgan Keegan, maintains two types of liabilities for its brokerage customers that are classified as short-term borrowings since Morgan Keegan pays its customers interest related to these liabilities. The brokerage customer position liability represents liquid funds in the customers’ brokerage accounts. The short-sale liability represents trading obligations to deliver to customers securities at a predetermined date and price. Balances due to brokerage customers totaled $324 million at December 31, 2010 as compared to $424 million at December 31, 2009. The short-sale liability was $174 million at December 31, 2010 compared to $266 million at December 31, 2009. The balance of these liabilities fluctuates frequently based on customer activity.

Customer collateral decreased $68 million to $10 million at December 31, 2010 from $78 million at December 31, 2009. This balance includes cash collateral posted by customers related to derivative transactions by swap customers of Morgan Keegan.

 

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LONG-TERM BORROWINGS

Regions’ long-term borrowings consist primarily of FHLB borrowings, subordinated notes, senior notes and other long-term notes payable. Total long-term borrowings decreased $5.3 billion to $13.2 billion at December 31, 2010. See Note 12 “Long-Term Borrowings” to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion and detailed listing of outstandings and rates.

Membership in the FHLB system provides access to a source of lower-cost funds. As of December 31, 2010, Regions had total long-term FHLB advances of $3.7 billion, compared to $7.4 billion at December 31, 2009. During 2010, Regions prepaid approximately $2 billion of FHLB advances, realizing $108 million in pre-tax losses on early extinguishment. These extinguishments were part of the company’s asset/liability management process. The remaining decrease between years was due to maturities. Long-term FHLB structured advances have stated maturities during 2011, but are convertible quarterly at the option of the FHLB. The convertible feature provides that after a specified date in the future, the advances will remain at a fixed rate, or Regions will have the option to either pay off the advance or convert from a fixed rate to a variable rate based on the LIBOR index. The FHLB structured advances had a weighted-average interest rate of 2.5% at December 31, 2010 and 3.1% at December 31, 2009. Other FHLB advances at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 had a weighted-average interest rate of 1.0%, 3.4% and 3.8%, respectively, with maturities of one to nineteen years. FHLB borrowings are contingent upon the amount of collateral pledged to the FHLB. Regions has pledged certain residential first mortgage loans on one-to-four family dwellings and home equity lines of credit as collateral for the FHLB advances outstanding. See Note 4 “Loans” to the consolidated financial statements for loans pledged to the FHLB at December 31, 2010 and 2009. Additionally, membership in the FHLB requires an institution to hold FHLB stock, and Regions held $419 million at December 31, 2010 and $473 million at December 31, 2009. Regions’ borrowing availability with the FHLB as of December 31, 2010, based on assets available for collateral at that date, was $1.2 billion.

As of December 31, 2010, Regions had outstanding subordinated notes totaling $4.3 billion, essentially unchanged from December 31, 2009. Regions’ subordinated notes consist of ten issues with interest rates ranging from 4.85% to 7.75%. All issuances of these notes are, by definition, subordinated and subject in right of payment of both principal and interest to the prior payment in full of all senior indebtedness of the Company, which is generally defined as all indebtedness and other obligations of the Company to its creditors, except subordinated indebtedness. Payment of the principal of the notes may be accelerated only in the case of certain events involving bankruptcy, insolvency proceedings or reorganization of the Company. The subordinated notes described above qualify as Tier 2 capital under Federal Reserve guidelines. None of the subordinated notes are redeemable prior to maturity.

In October 2008, the FDIC announced a new program—the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (“TLGP”)—to strengthen confidence and encourage liquidity in the banking system by guaranteeing newly issued senior unsecured debt of banks, thrifts and certain holding companies, and by providing full coverage of non-interest bearing deposit transaction accounts, regardless of dollar amount. Under the original rules, certain newly issued senior unsecured debt with maturities greater than 30 days issued on or before June 30, 2009, would be backed by the “full faith and credit” of the U.S. government through June 30, 2012. The FDIC’s payment obligation under the guarantee for eligible senior unsecured debt would be triggered by a payment default. The guarantee is limited to 125 percent of senior unsecured debt as of September 30, 2008 that was scheduled to mature before June 30, 2009. This includes Federal funds purchased, promissory notes, commercial paper and certain types of inter-bank funding. Participants were charged a 50-100 basis point fee to protect their new debt issues which varies depending on the maturity date. Additionally, participants could elect to pay a fee of 37.5 basis points on their TLGP capacity for the right to issue non-guaranteed debt during the program. This fee was non-refundable and used to offset the guarantee fee for issuances until exhausted. In December 2008, Regions Bank completed an offering of $3.75 billion of qualifying senior bank notes covered by the TLGP. Payment of principal and interest on the notes will be guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the United States pursuant to the TLGP. At December 31, 2010, approximately $2 billion of this offering remained outstanding and will mature in December 2011.

 

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As of December 31, 2010, Regions had senior debt and bank notes totaling $3.8 billion, compared to $5.3 billion at December 31, 2009. In June 2010 and December 2010, approximately $250 million and $2 billion of senior notes, respectively, matured. During 2010, Regions issued $250 million (par value) of 4.875 percent senior notes due April 2013 and $500 million (par value) of 5.75 percent senior notes due June 2015.

At December 31, 2010 and 2009, Regions had $843 million of junior subordinated notes (“JSNs”) bearing interest rates ranging from 6.625 percent to 8.875 percent. JSNs were issued to affiliated trusts, which contemporaneously issued trust preferred securities which Regions guaranteed.

Other long-term debt was $383 million at December 31, 2010 and $454 million at December 31, 2009, and had weighted-average interest rates of 2.6% and 2.9%, respectively, and a weighted-average maturity of 5.1 years and 5.3 years, respectively. As of December 31, 2010, Regions has $55 million included in other long-term debt in connection with a seller-lessee transaction with continuing involvement compared to $59 million as of December 31, 2009. Approximately $200 million related to term repurchase agreements is also included in other long-term debt at both December 31, 2010 and 2009. These arrangements are considered typical of the banking industry and are accounted for as borrowings.

In February 2010, Regions filed a shelf registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. This shelf registration does not have a capacity limit and can be utilized by Regions to issue various debt and/or equity securities. The registration statement will expire in February 2013.

Regions’ Bank Note program allows Regions Bank to issue up to $20 billion aggregate principal amount of bank notes outstanding at any one time. No issuances have been made under this program as of December 31, 2010. Notes issued under the program may be senior notes with maturities from 30 days to 15 years and subordinated notes with maturities from 5 years to 30 years. These notes are not deposits and they are not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC.

Regions’ borrowing availability with the Federal Reserve Bank Discount Window as of December 31, 2010, based on assets available for collateral at that date, was $16.6 billion.

Regions may, from time to time, consider opportunistically retiring its outstanding issued securities, including subordinated debt, trust preferred securities and preferred shares in privately negotiated or open market transactions for cash or common shares.

RATINGS

During 2010, Regions experienced rating actions by Standard & Poor’s Corporation (“S&P”), Moody’s Investors Service, Fitch Ratings and Dominion Bond Rating Service (“DBRS”). The agencies downgraded obligations of Regions Financial Corporation and Regions Bank. In general, ratings agencies base their ratings on many quantitative and qualitative factors, including capital adequacy, liquidity, asset quality, business mix, probability of government support, and level and quality of earnings. Any downgrade in credit ratings by one or more ratings agencies may impact Regions in several ways, including, but not limited to, Regions’ access to the capital markets or short-term funding, borrowing cost and capacity, collateral requirements, acceptability of its letters of credit, funding of variable rate demand notes (“VRDNs”), as well as FDIC insurance costs, thereby potentially adversely impacting Regions’ financial condition and liquidity.

 

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Table 17 “Credit Ratings” reflects the debt ratings information of Regions Financial Corporation and Regions Bank by S&P, Moody’s Investors Service, Fitch Ratings and DBRS at December 31, 2010 and 2009.

Table 17—Credit Ratings

 

      As of December 31, 2010  
     Standard
& Poor’s
     Moody’s     Fitch      DBRS  

Regions Financial Corporation

          

Senior notes

     BB+         Ba3        BBB-         BBB   

Subordinated notes

     BB         B1        BB+         BBBL   

Junior subordinated notes

     B         B2        BB         BBBL   

Regions Bank

          

Short-term debt

     A-3         NP*        F3         R-2H   

Long-term bank deposits

     BBB-         Ba1        BBB         BBBH   

Long-term debt

     BBB-         Ba2        BBB-         BBBH   

Subordinated debt

     BB+         Ba3        BB+         BBB   

 

* Not Prime

 

      As of December 31, 2009  
     Standard
& Poor’s
     Moody’s      Fitch      DBRS  

Regions Financial Corporation

           

Senior notes

     BBB         Baa3         BBB+         AL   

Subordinated notes

     BBB-         Ba1         BBB         BBBH   

Junior subordinated notes

     BB         Ba2         BBB-         BBBH   

Regions Bank

           

Short-term debt

     A-2         P-2         F2         R-1L   

Long-term bank deposits

     BBB+         Baa1         A-         A   

Long-term debt

     BBB+         Baa1         BBB+         A   

Subordinated debt

     BBB         Baa2         BBB         AL   

On November 1, 2010, Moody’s Investors Service downgraded the ratings of 10 large U.S. regional banks, including Regions, after reducing its government support assumptions for these entities. The rationale for the downgrades reflects Moody’s view that the likelihood of government support for these institutions is lower now that the U.S. Banking system has moved beyond the financial crisis. Shortly following the downgrade by Moody’s, Regions Financial Corporation and Regions Bank received downgrades from each of the other ratings agencies, citing concerns regarding Regions’ credit quality, specifically commercial real estate loan exposures and unfavorable geographic concentrations, and the related implications for its capital, as the primary determinants of the ratings actions.

At December 31, 2010, Moody’s and S&P’s credit ratings for Regions were below investment grade. For Regions Bank, Moody’s credit ratings were below investment grade. Regions and Regions Bank remain on a credit watch with negative implications from Moody’s. Additionally, many obligations of Regions and Regions Bank remain on negative outlook by the agencies referred to above. See the “Risk Factors” section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.

A security rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities, and the ratings are subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating agency. Each rating should be evaluated independently of any other rating.

 

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STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Stockholders’ equity decreased to $16.7 billion at year-end 2010 versus $17.9 billion at year-end 2009. In 2010, net losses reduced stockholders’ equity by $539 million, cash dividends declared reduced stockholders’ equity by $49 million for common stock and $187 million for preferred stock, and changes in accumulated other comprehensive income decreased equity by $390 million.

On May 7, 2009, the final results of the Federal Reserve’s Supervisory Capital Assessment Program (“SCAP”) were released requiring Regions to submit a capital plan to its regulators detailing the steps to be utilized to increase total Tier 1 common equity by $2.5 billion, of which at least $0.4 billion had to be new Tier 1 equity (see Table 2 “GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation” and Table 18 “Capital Ratios” for further discussion).

The Company’s public equity offering of common stock, announced May 20, 2009, resulted in the issuance of 460 million shares at $4 per share, generating proceeds of approximately $1.8 billion, net of issuance costs.

The Company also issued 287,500 shares of mandatory convertible preferred stock, Series B (“Series B shares”), generating net proceeds of approximately $278 million. Accrued dividends on the Series B shares reduced retained earnings by $12 million and $19 million during 2010 and 2009, respectively. In November 2009, a single investor converted approximately 20,000 Series B shares to common shares as allowed under the original transaction documents. On June 18, 2010, as allowed by the terms of the Series B shares, Regions initiated an early conversion of all of the remaining outstanding Series B shares. Dividends accrued and unpaid at the conversion date were settled through issuance of common shares in accordance with the original document. No Series B shares were outstanding at December 31, 2010. Approximately 63 million common shares were issued in the conversion and dividend settlement.

In addition to the offerings mentioned above, in 2009 the Company also exchanged approximately 33 million common shares for $202 million of outstanding 6.625 percent trust preferred securities issued by Regions Financing Trust II (“the Trust”). The trust preferred securities were exchanged for junior subordinated notes issued by the Company to the Trust. The Company recognized a pre-tax gain of approximately $61 million on the extinguishment of the junior subordinated notes. The increase in shareholders’ equity related to the debt for common share exchange was approximately $135 million, net of issuance costs.

These public offerings along with other capital raising efforts resulted in Regions fully meeting the Tier 1 common equity capital and exceeding the Tier 1 capital requirements prescribed by the SCAP (see Table 2 “GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation” for further discussion).

At December 31, 2010, Regions had 23.1 million common shares available for repurchase through open market transactions under an existing share repurchase authorization. There were no treasury stock purchases through open market transactions during 2010 or 2009. The Company’s ability to repurchase its common stock is limited by the terms of the Purchase Agreement between Regions and the U.S. Treasury entered into on November 14, 2008, pursuant to the U.S. Treasury’s Capital Purchase Program (“CPP”). See Part II, Item 5 (“Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities”) for more information.

Regions’ ratio of stockholders’ equity to total assets was 12.6 percent at both December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009. Regions’ ratio of tangible common stockholders’ equity (stockholders’ equity less goodwill and other identifiable intangibles and the related deferred tax liability) to total tangible assets was 6.04 percent at December 31, 2010 compared to 6.22 percent at December 31, 2009 (see Table 2 “GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation” for further discussion). The decrease between years was a result of the change in accumulated other comprehensive income and the reduction in tangible assets.

In 2010, Regions decreased its annual dividend to $0.04 per common share, compared to $0.13 in 2009 and $0.96 in 2008. Regions does not expect to increase its quarterly dividend above $0.01 per common share for the foreseeable future.

 

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BANK REGULATORY CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS

Regions and Regions Bank are required to comply with capital adequacy standards established by banking regulatory agencies. Currently, there are two basic measures of capital adequacy: a risk-based measure and a leverage measure.

The risk-based capital standards are designed to make regulatory capital requirements more sensitive to differences in credit and market risk profiles among banks and bank holding companies, to account for off-balance sheet exposure and interest rate risk, and to minimize disincentives for holding liquid assets. Assets and off-balance sheet items are assigned to broad risk categories, each with specified risk-weighting factors. The resulting capital ratios represent capital as a percentage of total risk-weighted assets and off-balance sheet items. Banking organizations that are considered to have excessive interest rate risk exposure are required to maintain higher levels of capital.

The minimum standard for the ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets is 8 percent. At least 50 percent of that capital level must consist of common equity, undivided profits and non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock, senior perpetual preferred stock issued to the U.S. Treasury under the CPP, minority interests relating to qualifying common or noncumulative perpetual preferred stock issued by a consolidated U.S. depository institution or foreign bank subsidiary, less goodwill and certain other intangibles (“Tier 1 capital”). The remainder (“Tier 2 capital”) may consist of a limited amount of other preferred stock, mandatorily convertible securities, subordinated debt, and a limited amount of the allowance for loan losses. The sum of Tier 1 capital and Tier 2 capital is “total risk-based capital” or total capital. However, under the Collins Amendment, which was passed as a section of the Dodd-Frank Act, trust preferred securities will be eliminated as an element of Tier 1 capital. This disallowance of trust preferred securities will be phased in from January 1, 2013 to January 1, 2016. Debt or equity instruments issued to the Federal government as part of the CPP are exempt from the Collins Amendment. As of December 31, 2010, Regions has $846 million of trust preferred securities that are subject to the Collins Amendment and $3.5 billion of preferred equity that is exempt from the Collins Amendment.

The banking regulatory agencies also have adopted regulations that supplement the risk-based guidelines to include a minimum ratio of 3 percent of Tier 1 capital to average assets less goodwill and disallowed deferred tax assets (the “Leverage ratio”). Depending upon the risk profile of the institution and other factors, the regulatory agencies may require a Leverage ratio of 1 percent to 2 percent above the minimum 3 percent level.

In connection with the SCAP, banking regulators began supplementing their assessment of the capital adequacy of a bank based on a variation of Tier 1 capital, known as Tier 1 common equity. While not codified, analysts and banking regulators have assessed Regions’ capital adequacy using the tangible common stockholders’ equity and/or the Tier 1 common equity measure. Because tangible common stockholders’ equity and Tier 1 common equity are not formally defined by GAAP or codified in the federal banking regulations, these measures are considered to be non-GAAP financial measures and other entities may calculate them differently than Regions’ disclosed calculations (see Table 2 “GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation” for further details).

Regions’ Tier 1 common and Tier 1 capital ratios were 7.85 percent and 12.40 percent as of December 31, 2010. Regions is evaluating the anticipated impact of Basel III, which will begin in 2013 and is expected to be fully phased-in on January 1, 2019 . The Company’s pro forma Tier 1 common and Tier 1 capital ratios, based on Regions’ current understanding of the guidelines, are approximately 7.62 and 11.35 percent, above the Basel III minimums of 7 percent for Tier 1 common and 8.5 percent for Tier 1 capital. Regions also expects to meet the Basel III liquidity coverage ratio in its current form. However, there is still need for clarification of the Basel III rules as well as interpretation and implementation by U.S. banking regulators, so the ultimate impact on Regions is not completely known at this point. See the “Supervision and Regulation—Capital Requirements” subsection of the “Business” section and the “Risk Factors” section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.

 

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The following chart summarizes the applicable bank regulatory capital requirements. Regions’ capital ratios at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 substantially exceeded all regulatory requirements.

Table 18—Capital Ratios

 

     2010     2009  
     (Dollars in millions)  

Risk-based capital:

    

Stockholders’ equity (GAAP)

   $ 16,734      $ 17,881   

Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss

     260        (130

Non-qualifying goodwill and intangibles

     (5,706     (5,792

Disallowed deferred tax assets(1)

     (424     (947

Disallowed servicing assets

     (27     (25

Qualifying non-controlling interests

     92        91   

Qualifying trust preferred securities

     846        846   
                

Tier 1 capital

     11,775        11,924   

Qualifying subordinated debt

     2,418        2,907   

Adjusted allowance for loan losses(2)

     1,213        1,316   

Other

     121        155   
                

Tier 2 capital

     3,752        4,378   
                

Total capital

   $ 15,527      $ 16,302   
                

Risk-weighted assets (regulatory)

   $ 94,966      $ 103,330   

Capital ratios:

    

Tier 1 common risk-based ratio (non-GAAP)

     7.85     7.15

Tier 1 capital to total risk-weighted assets

     12.40        11.54   

Total capital to total risk-weighted assets

     16.35        15.78   

Leverage

     9.30        8.90   

Stockholders’ equity to total assets

     12.64        12.56   

Common stockholders’ equity to total assets

     10.09        10.03   

Tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP)(3)

     6.04        6.22   

 

(1) Only one year of projected future taxable income may be applied in calculating deferred tax assets for regulatory capital purposes.
(2) Includes $119 million and $128 million in 2010 and 2009, respectively, associated with reserves recorded for off-balance sheet credit exposures, including derivatives.
(3) Beginning in 2010, tangible ratios are computed net of deferred taxes associated with intangible assets. Prior periods have been revised to conform with current presentation.

See Note 13 “Regulatory Capital Requirements and Restrictions” to the consolidated financial statements for further details. As of December 31, 2010, Regions Bank had the requisite capital levels to qualify as well capitalized.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

Regions has certain variable interests in unconsolidated variable interest entities (i.e., Regions is not the primary beneficiary). Regions owns the common stock of subsidiary business trusts, which have issued mandatorily redeemable preferred capital securities (“trust preferred securities”) in the aggregate of $1 billion at the time of issuance. These trusts meet the definition of a variable interest entity of which Regions is not the primary beneficiary; the trusts’ only assets are junior subordinated debentures issued by Regions, which were acquired by the trusts using the proceeds from the issuance of the trust preferred securities and common stock. The junior subordinated debentures are included in long-term borrowings (see Note 12 “Long-Term Borrowings”

 

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to the consolidated financial statements) and Regions’ equity interests in the business trusts are included in other assets. For regulatory reporting and capital adequacy purposes, the Federal Reserve Board has indicated that such trust preferred securities will continue to constitute Tier 1 capital. Additional discussion regarding the status of capital treatment for these instruments is included in the “Supervision and Regulation—Capital Requirements” section of Item 1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Also, Regions periodically invests in various limited partnerships that sponsor affordable housing projects, which are funded through a combination of debt and equity. Regions’ maximum exposure to loss as of December 31, 2010 was $893 million, which included $196 million in unfunded commitments to the partnerships. Additionally, Regions has short-term construction loans or letters of credit commitments with the partnerships totaling $213 million as of December 31, 2010. The funded portion of these loans and letters of credit was $61 million at December 31, 2010. The funded portion is included with loans on the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 2 “Variable Interest Entities” to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion.

EFFECTS OF INFLATION

The majority of assets and liabilities of a financial institution are monetary in nature; therefore, a financial institution differs greatly from most commercial and industrial companies, which have significant investments in fixed assets or inventories that are greatly impacted by inflation. However, inflation does have an important impact on the growth of total assets in the banking industry and the resulting need to increase equity capital at higher than normal rates in order to maintain an appropriate equity-to-assets ratio. Inflation also affects other expenses that tend to rise during periods of general inflation.

Management believes the most significant potential impact of inflation on financial results is a direct result of Regions’ ability to manage the impact of changes in interest rates. Management attempts to maintain an essentially balanced position between rate-sensitive assets and liabilities in order to minimize the impact of interest rate fluctuations on net interest income. However, this goal can be difficult to completely achieve in times of rapidly changing rate structure and is one of many factors considered in determining the company’s interest rate positioning. The Company is asset sensitive as of December 31, 2010. Refer to Table 19 “Interest Rate Sensitivity” for additional details on Regions’ interest rate sensitivity.

EFFECTS OF DEFLATION

A period of deflation would affect all industries, including financial institutions. Potentially, deflation could lead to lower profits, higher unemployment, lower production and deterioration in overall economic conditions. In addition, deflation could depress economic activity and impair bank earnings through increasing the value of debt while decreasing the value of collateral for loans. If the economy experienced a severe period of deflation, then it could depress loan demand, impair the ability of borrowers to repay loans and sharply reduce bank earnings.

Management believes the most significant potential impact of deflation on financial results is a direct result of Regions’ ability to maintain a high amount of capital to cushion against future losses. In addition, the Company can utilize certain risk management tools to help the bank maintain its balance sheet strength even if a deflationary scenario were to develop.

RISK MANAGEMENT

Risk identification and risk management are key elements in the overall management of Regions. Management believes the primary risk exposures are market risk, liquidity risk, counterparty risk and credit risk. Market risk is the price and earnings variability (mainly reductions) arising from adverse changes in 1) the fair values of financial instruments due to changes in interest rates, exchange rates, commodity prices, equity prices

 

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or the credit quality of debt securities and/or 2) the impact to net interest income based on changes in interest rates and the associated impact on prepayments. Regions’ market risk is made up of three components: interest rate risk, prepayment risk, and capital markets and brokerage-related risks (primarily associated with Morgan Keegan). Interest rate risk is the risk to net interest income due to the impact of movements in interest rates. Prepayment risk is the risk that borrowers may repay their loans or other debt earlier than at their stated maturities. The Company, primarily through Morgan Keegan, is also subject to various market-related risks associated with its brokerage and market-related activities. Liquidity risk relates to Regions’ ability to fund present and future obligations. Counterparty risk represents the risk that a counterparty will not comply with its contractual obligations. Credit risk represents the risk that parties indebted to Regions fail to perform as contractually obligated. Regions’ primary credit risk arises from the possibility that borrowers may not be able to repay loans, and to a lesser extent, the failure of securities issuers and counterparties to perform as contractually required.

Management follows a formal policy to evaluate and document the key risks facing each line of business, how those risks can be controlled or mitigated, and how management monitors the controls to ensure that they are effective. Separate from risk acceptance, there is an independent risk assessment and reporting program. To ensure that risks within the company are presented and appropriately addressed, the Board has designated a Risk Committee of outside directors. The Risk Committee’s focus is on Regions’ overall risk profile and the committee receives reports from the Company quarterly. Additionally, Regions’ Internal Audit Division performs ongoing, independent reviews of the risk management process which are reported to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.

Some of the more significant processes used to manage and control these and other risks are described in the remainder of this report. External factors beyond management’s control may result in losses despite risk management efforts.

MARKET RISK—INTEREST RATE RISK

Regions’ primary market risk is interest rate risk, including uncertainty with respect to absolute interest rate levels as well as uncertainty with respect to relative interest rate levels, which is impacted by both the shape and the slope of the various yield curves that affect the financial products and services that the Company offers. To quantify this risk, Regions measures the change in its net interest income in various interest rate scenarios compared to a base case scenario. Net interest income sensitivity is a useful short-term indicator of Regions’ interest rate risk.

Sensitivity Measurement—Financial simulation models are Regions’ primary tools used to measure interest rate exposure. Using a wide range of sophisticated simulation techniques provides management with extensive information on the potential impact to net interest income caused by changes in interest rates. Models are structured to simulate cash flows and accrual characteristics of Regions’ balance sheet. Assumptions are made about the direction and volatility of interest rates, the slope of the yield curve, and the changing composition of the balance sheet that result from both strategic plans and from customer behavior. Among the assumptions are expectations of balance sheet growth and composition, the pricing and maturity characteristics of existing business and the characteristics of future business. Interest rate-related risks are expressly considered, such as pricing spreads, the lag time in pricing deposit accounts, prepayments and other option risks. Regions considers these factors, as well as the degree of certainty or uncertainty surrounding their future behavior.

Historically, Regions’ balance sheet has consisted of a relatively rate-sensitive deposit base that funds a predominantly floating rate commercial and consumer loan portfolio. This mix of Regions’ core business activities creates a naturally asset sensitive balance sheet, meaning that increases (decreases) in interest rates would likely have a positive (negative) cumulative impact on Regions’ net interest income. To manage the balance sheet’s interest rate risk, Regions maintains a portfolio of largely fixed-rate discretionary investments, loans and derivatives. The market risk of these discretionary instruments attributable to variation in interest rates is fully incorporated into the simulation results in the same manner as all other balance sheet instruments.

 

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The primary objective of asset/liability management at Regions is to coordinate balance sheet composition with interest rate risk management to sustain a reasonable and stable net interest income throughout various interest rate cycles. In computing interest rate sensitivity for measurement, Regions compares a set of alternative interest rate scenarios to the results of a base case scenario based on “market forward rates.” The standard set of interest rate scenarios includes the traditional instantaneous parallel rate shifts of plus 100 and 200 basis points. Regions also prepares a minus 100 basis points scenario; a minus 200 basis point scenario is not considered realistic in the current rate environment. Up-rate scenarios of greater magnitude are also analyzed, and are of increased importance as the current and historic low levels of interest rates increase the relative likelihood of a rapid and substantial increase in interest rates. Regions also includes simulations of gradual interest rate movements that may more realistically mimic potential interest rate movements. These gradual scenarios include curve steepening, flattening, and parallel movements of various magnitudes phased in over a six-month period, and include rate shifts of plus and minus 100 basis points and plus 200 basis points.

Exposure to Interest Rate Movements—As of December 31, 2010, Regions was moderately asset sensitive to both gradual and instantaneous rate shifts as compared to the base case for the measurement horizon ending in December 2011. Regions continues to observe that the pace of economic recovery is at risk of being slow, which may result in a continuation of this period of low interest rates. To partially offset the adverse impact on net interest income and net interest margin attributable to an extended period of low interest rates, Regions entered into a series of receive-fixed interest rate swaps. These instruments have a final maturity in December 2012. The table below summarizes Regions’ position, and the scenarios are inclusive of all interest-rate risk hedging activities. Note that where scenarios would indicate negative interest rates, a minimum of zero is applied.

Table 19—Interest Rate Sensitivity

 

Gradual Change in Interest Rates

   Estimated Annual Change in Net Interest Income
December 31,  2010
 
     (In millions)  

+200 basis points

   $ 168   

+100 basis points

     100   

-100 basis points

     (65

Instantaneous Change in Interest Rates

      
        

+200 basis points

   $ 225   

+100 basis points

     146   

-100 basis points

     (133

Interest rate movements may also have an impact on the value of Regions’ securities portfolio, which can directly impact the carrying value of shareholders’ equity. Regions from time to time may hedge these price movements with derivatives (as discussed below). However, at December 31, 2010, Regions had no designations of hedges to mitigate price movements of securities.

Derivatives—Regions uses financial derivative instruments for management of interest rate sensitivity. The Asset and Liability Committee (“ALCO”), which consists of members of Regions’ senior management team, in its oversight role for the management of interest rate sensitivity, approves the use of derivatives in balance sheet hedging strategies. The most common derivatives Regions employs are forward rate contracts, Eurodollar futures contracts, interest rate swaps, options on interest rate swaps, interest rate caps and floors, and forward sale commitments. Derivatives are also used to offset the risks associated with customer derivatives, which include interest rate, credit and foreign exchange risks.

Forward rate contracts are commitments to buy or sell financial instruments at a future date at a specified price or yield. A Eurodollar futures contract is a future on a Eurodollar deposit. Eurodollar futures contracts

 

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subject Regions to market risk associated with changes in interest rates. Because futures contracts are cash settled daily, there is minimal credit risk associated with Eurodollar futures. Interest rate swaps are contractual agreements typically entered into to exchange fixed for variable (or vice versa) streams of interest payments. The notional principal is not exchanged but is used as a reference for the size of interest settlements. Interest rate options are contracts that allow the buyer to purchase or sell a financial instrument at a predetermined price and time. Forward sale commitments are contractual obligations to sell market instruments at a future date for an already agreed-upon price. Foreign currency contracts involve the exchange of one currency for another on a specified date and at a specified rate. These contracts are executed on behalf of the Company’s customers and are used to manage fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. The Company is subject to the credit risk that another party will fail to perform.

Regions has made use of interest rate swaps to effectively convert a portion of its fixed-rate funding position to a variable-rate position and, in some cases, to effectively convert a portion of its variable-rate loan portfolio to fixed-rate. Regions also uses derivatives to manage interest rate and pricing risk associated with its mortgage origination business. In the period of time that elapses between the origination and sale of mortgage loans, changes in interest rates have the potential to cause a decline in the value of the loans in this held-for-sale portfolio. Futures contracts and forward sale commitments are used to protect the value of the loan pipeline and loans held for sale from changes in interest rates and pricing.

Regions manages the credit risk of these instruments in much the same way as it manages credit risk of the loan portfolios by establishing credit limits for each counterparty and through collateral agreements for dealer transactions. For non-dealer transactions, the need for collateral is evaluated on an individual transaction basis and is primarily dependent on the financial strength of the counterparty. Credit risk is also reduced significantly by entering into legally enforceable master netting agreements. When there is more than one transaction with a counterparty and there is a legally enforceable master netting agreement in place, the exposure represents the net of the gain and loss positions with and collateral received from and/or posted to that counterparty. The “Credit Risk” section in this report contains more information on the management of credit risk.

Regions also uses derivatives to meet the needs of its customers. Interest rate swaps, interest rate options and foreign exchange forwards are the most common derivatives sold to customers. Other derivatives instruments with similar characteristics are used to hedge market risk and minimize volatility associated with this portfolio. Instruments used to service customers are held in the trading account, with changes in value recorded in the consolidated statements of operations.

The primary objective of Regions’ hedging strategies is to mitigate the impact of interest rate changes, from an economic perspective, on net interest income and the net present value of its balance sheet. The overall effectiveness of these hedging strategies is subject to market conditions, the quality of Regions’ execution, the accuracy of its valuation assumptions, counterparty credit risk and changes in interest rates. As a result, Regions’ hedging strategies may be ineffective in mitigating the impact of interest rate changes on its earnings. See Note 20 “Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities” to the consolidated financial statements for a tabular summary of Regions’ year-end derivatives positions and further discussion.

On January 1, 2009, Regions began accounting for mortgage servicing rights at fair market value with any changes to fair value being recorded within mortgage income. Also, in early 2009, Regions entered into derivative and balance sheet transactions to mitigate the impact of market value fluctuations related to mortgage servicing rights. Derivative instruments entered in the future could be materially different from the current risk profile of Regions’ current portfolio.

MARKET RISK—PREPAYMENT RISK

Regions, like most financial institutions, is subject to changing prepayment speeds on mortgage-related assets under different interest rate environments. Prepayment risk is a significant risk to earnings and specifically to net interest income. For example, mortgage loans and other financial assets may be prepaid by a debtor, so that

 

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the debtor may refinance its obligations at lower rates. As loans and other financial assets prepay in a falling rate environment, Regions must reinvest these funds in lower-yielding assets. Prepayments of assets carrying higher rates reduce Regions’ interest income and overall asset yields. Conversely, in a rising rate environment, these assets will prepay at a slower rate, resulting in opportunity cost by not having the cash flow to reinvest at higher rates. Prepayment risk can also impact the value of securities and the carrying value of equity. Regions’ greatest exposures to prepayment risks primarily rest in its mortgage-backed securities portfolio, the mortgage fixed-rate loan portfolio and the mortgage servicing asset, all of which tend to be sensitive to interest rate movements. Prepayments on mortgage-backed securities increased during 2010 due to the favorable mortgage interest rate environment that existed for the majority of the year. However, tighter lending standards, decreased home prices, and lingering uncertainty surrounding the economic environment restrained otherwise higher prepayment speeds. Regions also has prepayment risk that would be reflected in non-interest income in the form of servicing income on loans sold. Regions actively monitors prepayment exposure as part of its overall net interest income forecasting and interest rate risk management. In particular, because interest rates are currently relatively low, Regions is actively managing exposure to declining prepayments that are expected to coincide with increasing interest rates in both the loan and securities portfolios.

MARKET RISK—BROKERAGE AND OTHER MARKET ACTIVITY RISK

References below, and elsewhere in this Form 10-K, to “Morgan Keegan” are intended to include not only Morgan Keegan & Company, Inc. but also certain of its affiliates and subsidiaries. It should not be assumed or infered that any specific activity mentioned is carried on by any particular Morgan Keegan entity.

Morgan Keegan’s business activities, including its securities inventory positions and securities held for investment, expose it to market risk. Further, the Company is also exposed to market risk in its capital markets business, which includes derivatives, loan syndication and foreign exchange trading activities, and mortgage trading activity, which includes secondary marketing of loans to government-sponsored entities.

Morgan Keegan trades for its own account in corporate and tax-exempt securities and U.S. Government agency and Government-sponsored securities. Most of these transactions are entered into to facilitate the execution of customers’ orders to buy or sell these securities. In addition, it trades certain equity securities in order to “make a market” in these securities. Morgan Keegan’s trading activities require the commitment of capital. All principal transactions place the subsidiary’s capital at risk. Profits and losses are dependent upon the skills of employees and market fluctuations. In order to mitigate the risks of carrying inventory and as part of other normal brokerage activities, Morgan Keegan assumes short positions on securities.

In the normal course of business, Morgan Keegan enters into underwriting and forward and future commitments. At December 31, 2010, the notional amount of forward commitments was approximately $312 million. Morgan Keegan typically settles its position by entering into equal but opposite contracts and, as such, the contract amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. Settlement of the transactions relating to such commitments is not expected to have a material effect on Regions’ consolidated financial position. Transactions involving future settlement give rise to market risk, which represents the potential gain or loss that can be caused by a change in the market value of a particular financial instrument. Regions’ exposure to market risk is determined by a number of factors, including the size, composition and diversification of positions held, the absolute and relative levels of interest rates, and market volatility.

Additionally, in the normal course of business, Morgan Keegan enters into transactions for delayed delivery, to-be-announced securities, which are recorded in trading account assets on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value. Risks arise from the possible inability of counterparties to meet the terms of their contracts and from unfavorable changes in interest rates or the market values of the securities underlying the instruments. The credit risk associated with these contracts is typically limited to the cost of replacing all contracts on which Morgan Keegan has recorded an unrealized gain. For exchange-traded contracts, the clearing organization acts as the counterparty to specific transactions and, therefore, bears the risk of delivery to and from counterparties.

 

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Interest rate risk at Morgan Keegan arises from the exposure of holding interest-sensitive financial instruments such as government, corporate and municipal bonds, and certain preferred equities. Morgan Keegan manages its exposure to interest rate risk by setting and monitoring limits and, where feasible, entering into offsetting positions in securities with similar interest rate risk characteristics. Securities inventories recorded in trading account assets on the consolidated balance sheets, are marked to market, and, accordingly, there are no unrecorded gains or losses in value. While a significant portion of the securities inventories have contractual maturities in excess of five years, these inventories, on average, turn over in excess of twelve times per year. Accordingly, the exposure to interest rate risk inherent in Morgan Keegan’s securities inventories is less than that of similar financial instruments held by firms in other industries. Morgan Keegan’s equity securities inventories are exposed to risk of loss in the event of unfavorable price movements. Also, Morgan Keegan is subject to credit risk arising from non-performance by trading counterparties, customers and issuers of debt securities owned. This risk is managed by imposing and monitoring position limits, monitoring trading counterparties, reviewing security concentrations, holding and marking to market collateral, and conducting business through clearing organizations that guarantee performance. Morgan Keegan regularly participates in the trading of some derivative securities for its customers; however, this activity does not involve Morgan Keegan acquiring a significant position or commitment in these products and this trading is not a significant portion of Morgan Keegan’s business.

Morgan Keegan has been an underwriter and dealer in auction rate securities. See Note 23 “Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees” to the consolidated financial statements for more details regarding regulatory action related to Morgan Keegan auction rate securities. As of December 31, 2010, customers of Morgan Keegan owned approximately $54 million of auction rate securities, and Morgan Keegan held approximately $161 million of auction rate securities on the balance sheet.

To manage trading risks arising from interest rate and equity price risks, Regions uses a Value at Risk (“VAR”) model along with other risk management methods to measure the potential fair value the Company could lose on its trading positions given a specified statistical confidence level and time-to-liquidate time horizon. The end-of-period VAR was approximately $805 thousand at December 31, 2010 and $1 million at December 31, 2009. Maximum daily VAR utilization during 2010 was $2 million and average daily VAR during the same period was $3 million.

LIQUIDITY RISK

Liquidity is an important factor in the financial condition of Regions and affects Regions’ ability to meet the borrowing needs and deposit withdrawal requirements of its customers. Table 20 “Contractual Obligations” summarizes Regions’ contractual cash obligations at December 31, 2010. Regions intends to fund obligations primarily through cash generated from normal operations. In addition to these obligations, Regions has obligations related to potential litigation contingencies (see Note 23 “Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees” to the consolidated financial statements for additional discussion of the Company’s funding requirements).

Assets, consisting principally of loans and securities, are funded by customer deposits, purchased funds, borrowed funds and stockholders’ equity. Regions’ goal in liquidity management is to satisfy the cash flow requirements of depositors and borrowers, while at the same time meeting its cash flow needs. The challenges of the current market environment demonstrate the importance of having and using diversified sources of liquidity to satisfy the Company’s funding requirements.

In order to ensure an appropriate level of liquidity is maintained, Regions performs specific procedures including scenario analyses and stress testing at the bank, holding company and affiliate levels. Regions’ policy is to maintain a sufficient level of funding to meet projected cash needs, including all debt service, dividends, and maturities, for the subsequent two years at the parent company and acceptable periods for the bank and other affiliates. The Company’s funding and contingency planning does not currently include any reliance on

 

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unsecured sources. However, Regions has continued to test those markets and has entered them only when opportunistic borrowing is available. Regions has chosen to focus on using short-term secured sources of funding.

Table 20—Contractual Obligations

 

     Payments Due By Period  
     Less than
1  Year
     1-3 Years      4-5 Years      More than
5 Years
     Indeterminable
Maturity
     Total  
     (In millions)  

Deposits(1)

   $ 14,307       $ 7,682       $ 781       $ 31       $ 71,813       $ 94,614   

Short-term borrowings

     3,937         —           —           —           —           3,937   

Long-term borrowings

     6,004         2,597         1,538         3,051         —           13,190   

Lease obligations

     156         266         206         543         —           1,171   

Purchase obligations

     17         5         —           —           —           22   

Benefit obligations(2)

     13         26         29         82         —           150   

Commitments to fund low income housing partnerships(3)

     348         —           —           —           —           348   

Unrecognized tax benefits(4)

     —           —           —           —           48         48   

Visa litigation

     —           —           —           —           24         24   

Other

     —           —           —           354         —           354   
                                                     
   $ 24,782       $ 10,576       $ 2,554       $ 4,061       $ 71,885       $ 113,858   
                                                     

 

(1) Deposits with indeterminable maturity include non-interest bearing demand, savings, interest-bearing transaction accounts and money market accounts.
(2) Amounts only include obligations related to the unfunded non-qualified pension plan and postretirement health care plan.
(3) Commitments to fund low income housing partnerships do not have defined maturity dates. Therefore, they have been considered due on demand, maturing one year or less.
(4) Includes liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits of $38 million and tax-related interest and penalties of $10 million. See Note 19 “Income Taxes” to the consoliated financial statements.
(5) See Note 23 “Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees” to the consolidated financial statements for the Company’s commercial commitments at December 31, 2010.

The securities portfolio is one of Regions’ primary sources of liquidity. Maturities of securities provide a constant flow of funds available for cash needs (see Table 12 “Relative Contractual Maturities and Weighted-Average Yields for Securities”). The agency guaranteed mortgage portfolio is another source of liquidity in various secured borrowing capacities. In anticipation of regulatory changes proposed within the Basel III framework, in particular the Liquidity Coverage Ratio, Regions increased its holdings in securities backed by GNMA, which are explicitly backed by the U.S. Government.

Maturities in the loan portfolio also provide a steady flow of funds (see Table 10 “Selected Loan Maturities”). At December 31, 2010, commercial loans and investor real estate mortgage and construction loans with an aggregate balance of $17.4 billion were due to mature in one year or less, although Regions may renew some of these lending arrangements if the risk profile is acceptable. Additionally, securities of $20 million were due to mature in one year or less. Additional funds are provided from payments on consumer loans and one-to-four family residential first mortgage loans. In addition, liquidity needs can also be met by borrowing funds in state and national money markets. Historically, Regions’ liquidity has been enhanced by a stable customer deposit base. During 2010 and 2009, Regions’ customer base grew substantially in response to competitive offers and customers’ desire to lock-in rates in the falling rate environment, as well as the introduction of new consumer and business checking products.

 

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Regions elected to exit the FDIC's TAG program on July 1, 2010. The TAG program is a component of the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program, whereby the FDIC guarantees all funds held at participating institutions beyond the $250,000 deposit insurance limit in qualifying transaction accounts. The decision to exit the program did not have a significant impact on liquidity. The Dodd-Frank Act permanently increased the FDIC coverage limit to $250,000. As a result of the Dodd-Frank Act, effective December 31, 2010, unlimited coverage for non-interest bearing demand transaction accounts will be provided through January 1, 2013. As of December 31, 2010, Regions had $10.6 billion of FDIC uninsured deposits.

Due to the potential for uncertainty and inconsistency in the unsecured funding markets, Regions has been maintaining higher levels of cash liquidity by depositing excess cash with the Federal Reserve Bank, which primarily comprises the balance sheet line item, “interest-bearing deposits in other banks.” At the end of 2010, Regions had over $4.8 billion in excess cash on deposit with the Federal Reserve. Regions' borrowing availability with the Federal Reserve Bank as of December 31, 2010, based on assets available for collateral at that date, was $16.6 billion.

Regions periodically accesses funding markets through sales of securities with agreements to repurchase. Repurchase agreements are also offered through a commercial banking sweep product as a short-term investment opportunity for customers. All such arrangements are considered typical of the banking and brokerage industries and are accounted for as borrowings.

Regions’ financing arrangement with the FHLB adds additional flexibility in managing its liquidity position. As of December 31, 2010, FHLB Atlanta advances totaled $4.2 billion. FHLB borrowing capacity is contingent on the amount of collateral pledged to the FHLB. Regions has additional collateral available and, accordingly, has additional capacity to borrow from the FHLB. Regions Bank and its subsidiaries have pledged certain residential first mortgage loans on one-to-four family dwellings and home equity lines of credit as collateral for the FHLB advances outstanding. Additionally, investment in FHLB stock is required in relation to the level of outstanding borrowings. Regions held $419 million in FHLB stock at December 31, 2010. The FHLB has been and is expected to continue to be a reliable and economical source of funding.

In February 2010, Regions filed a shelf registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. This shelf registration does not have a capacity limit and can be utilized by Regions to issue various debt and equity securities. The registration statement will expire in February 2013. During the second quarter of 2010, Regions issued from the shelf $250 million (par value) of 4.875% senior notes due April 2013 and $500 million (par value) of 5.75% senior notes due June 2015.

Regions’ Bank Note program allows Regions Bank to issue up to $20 billion aggregate principal amount of bank notes outstanding at any one time. No issuances have been made under this program as of December 31, 2010. Notes issued under the program may be senior notes with maturities from 30 days to 15 years and subordinated notes with maturities from 5 years to 30 years. These notes are not deposits and they are not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC.

Regions may, from time to time, consider opportunistically retiring outstanding issued securities, including subordinated debt, trust preferred securities and preferred shares in privately negotiated or open market transactions for cash or common shares.

Morgan Keegan maintains certain lines of credit with unaffiliated banks to manage liquidity in the ordinary course of business. See Note 11 “Short-Term Borrowings” to the consolidated financial statements for further details.

See the “Stockholders’ Equity” section for discussion of the Federal Reserve’s Supervisory Capital Assessment Program.

 

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COUNTERPARTY RISK

Regions manages and monitors its exposure to other financial institutions, also known as counterparty exposure, on an ongoing basis. The objective is to ensure that Regions appropriately identifies and reacts to risks associated with counterparties in a timely manner. This exposure may be direct or indirect exposure that could create legal, reputational or financial risk to the Company.

Counterparty exposure may result from a variety of transaction types and may include exposure to commercial banks, savings and loans, insurance companies, broker/dealers, institutions that provide credit enhancements, and corporate debt issuers. Because transactions with a counterparty may be generated in one or more departments, credit limits are established for use by various areas of the Company including treasury, capital markets, finance, the mortgage division and lines of business.

To manage counterparty risk, Regions has a centralized approach to approval, management and monitoring of exposure. To that end, Regions has a dedicated counterparty credit group and credit officer, as well as a documented counterparty credit policy. Exposures to counterparties are regularly aggregated across departments and reported to senior management.

Regions has various counterparties that are regularly relied upon for market making capabilities, primarily broker-dealers. With these counterparties, Regions typically has in place margin agreements that are monitored daily, with margin posted to collateralize exposure as appropriate. Interaction with these counterparties is part of the risk management and monitoring process outlined above.

CREDIT RISK

Regions’ objective regarding credit risk is to maintain a high-quality credit portfolio that provides for stable credit costs with acceptable volatility through an economic cycle.

Management Process

Regions employs a credit risk management process with defined policies, accountability and regular reporting to manage credit risk in the loan portfolio. Credit risk management is guided by credit policies that provide for a consistent and prudent approach to underwriting and approvals of credits. Within the Credit Policy department, procedures exist that elevate the approval requirements as credits become larger and more complex. Generally, consumer credits and smaller commercial credits are centrally underwritten based on custom credit matrices and policies that are modified as appropriate. Larger commercial and commercial real estate transactions are individually underwritten, risk-rated, approved and monitored.

Responsibility and accountability for adherence to underwriting policies and accurate risk ratings lies in the lines of business. For consumer and small business portfolios, the risk management process focuses on managing customers who become delinquent in their payments and managing performance of the credit scorecards, which are periodically adjusted based on actual credit performance. Commercial business units are responsible for underwriting new business and, on an ongoing basis, monitoring the credit of their portfolios, including a complete review of the borrower semi-annually or more frequently as needed.

To ensure problem commercial credits are identified on a timely basis, several specific portfolio reviews occur each quarter to assess the larger adversely rated credits for accrual status and, if necessary, to ensure such individual credits are transferred to Regions’ Special Assets Division, which specializes in managing distressed credit exposures.

There are also separate and independent commercial credit and consumer credit risk management organizational groups. These organizational units partner with the business line to assist in the processes

 

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described above, including the review and approval of new business and ongoing assessments of existing loans in the portfolio. Independent commercial and consumer credit risk management provides for more accurate risk ratings and the timely identification of problem credits, as well as oversight for the Chief Credit Officer on conditions and trends in the credit portfolios.

Credit quality and trends in the loan portfolio are measured and monitored regularly and detailed reports, by product, business unit and geography, are reviewed by line of business personnel and the Chief Credit Officer. The Chief Credit Officer reviews summaries of these credit reports with executive management and the Board of Directors. Finally, the Credit Review department provides ongoing independent oversight of the credit portfolios to ensure policies are followed, credits are properly risk-rated and that key credit control processes are functioning as intended.

Risk Characteristics of the Loan Portfolio

In order to assess the risk characteristics of the loan portfolio, Regions considers the current U.S. economic environment and that of its primary banking markets, as well as risk factors within the major categories of loans.

Economic Environment in Regions’ Banking Markets

The largest factor influencing the credit performance of Regions’ loan portfolio is the overall economic environment in the U.S. and the primary markets in which it operates. The Great Recession that began in December 2007 continued through 2008 and into 2009. Through this recessionary period, the overall output of goods and services experienced its sharpest decline since the early 1980s. Consumer spending, about 70 percent of all recorded spending, has been adversely impacted by declining inflation-adjusted income, low additional credit capacity, historically high required monthly debt payments, a negative employment outlook, a higher savings portion of after-tax personal income, and historically low consumer confidence. However, business sector output continues to grow, driven by replenishment of inventories that were highly depleted during the recession.

In 2009, the economic downturn that began with the housing slowdown continued to negatively impact consumer confidence. In turn, lower confidence levels negatively affected demand for goods and services. This lower demand impacted retail sales and led to increased vacancy rates and lower rent rolls for the commercial real estate sector. High unemployment continued in 2009 but began improving in 2010. Residential real estate prices were stable in 2010; however, concerns remain about the impact on real estate prices from the future sale of the large supply of homes that are either on bank balance sheets or currently delinquent.

In the fourth quarter of 2010, significant fiscal and monetary stimuli were implemented. On December 17, 2010, the President approved significant tax provisions that are expected to increase consumption, and, thereby, Gross Domestic Product, in 2011 and 2012. On November 3, 2010, the Federal Reserve approved the purchase of an additional $600 billion in U.S. Treasury bonds. The combination of these two policy actions should support growth and dramatically lower the possibility of a second recession in 2011. These actions should also help mitigate further downside risk for asset prices, in particular real estate prices.

Portfolio Characteristics

Regions has a diversified loan portfolio, in terms of product type, collateral and geography. At December 31, 2010, commercial loans represented 42 percent of total loans, net of unearned income, investor real estate loans represented 19 percent, residential first mortgage loans totaled 18 percent and other consumer loans, largely home equity lending, comprised the remaining 21 percent. Following is a discussion of risk characteristics of each loan type.

Commercial—The commercial loan portfolio segment totaled $35.1 billion at year-end 2010 and primarily consists of loans to small and mid-sized commercial and large corporate customers with business operations in Regions’ geographic footprint. Loans in this portfolio are generally underwritten individually and are usually

 

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secured with the assets of the company and/or the personal guarantee of the business owners. Also considered as commercial loans are owner-occupied commercial real estate loans to businesses for long-term financing of land and buildings. Regions attempts to minimize risk on owner-occupied properties by requiring collateral values that exceed the loan amount, adequate cash flow to service the debt, and, in many cases, the personal guarantees of principals of the borrowers. Net charge-offs on commercial loans were 1.87 percent in 2010 compared to 1.28 percent in 2009.

Investor Real Estate—The investor real estate portfolio segment totaled $15.9 billion at year-end 2010 and includes various loan types. A large component of investor real estate loans is extensions of credit to real estate developers and investors for the financing of land or buildings, where the repayment is generated from the sale of the real estate or income generated by the real estate property. Net charge-offs on commercial investor real estate mortgage loans continued to trend upward, from 3.64 percent in 2009 to 5.66 percent in 2010 reflecting continued credit pressure. Commercial investor real estate construction loans are primarily extensions of credit to real estate developers or investors where repayment is dependent on the sale of real estate or income generated from the real estate collateral. These loans are generally underwritten and managed by a specialized real estate group that also manages loan disbursements during the construction process. Net charge-offs on commercial investor real estate construction loans rose substantially, from 6.66 percent in 2009 to 14.3 percent in 2010. Losses on sales or transfers to held for sale of non-performing investor real estate loans also contributed to the year-over-year increase in net charge-offs.

The following chart presents detail of Regions’ $15.91 billion investor real estate portfolio as of December 31, 2010 (dollars in billions):

LOGO

Beginning in late 2007, the land, single-family and condominium components of the investor real estate portfolio segment came under significant pressure. Credit quality of the investor real estate portfolio is sensitive to risks associated with construction loans such as cost overruns, project completion risk, general contractor credit risk, environmental and other hazard risks, and market risks associated with the sale or rental of completed properties. Certain components of the investor real estate portfolio segment carry a higher risk of non-collection. While losses within these loan types were influenced by conditions described above, the most significant drivers of losses were the continued decline in demand for residential real estate and in the value of property.

 

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The following table presents credit metrics for land, single-family and condominium loans at December 31:

Table 21—Land, Single-Family and Condominium

 

     2010      2009  
     (In millions, net of
unearned income)
 

Land

     

Loan balance

   $ 1,640       $ 2,979   

Accruing loans 90 days past due

     1         16   

Non-accruing loans*

     476         724   

Single-Family

     

Loan balance

   $ 1,236       $ 2,083   

Accruing loans 90 days past due

     3         7   

Non-accruing loans*

     290         545   

Condominium

     

Loan balance

   $ 308       $ 586   

Accruing loans 90 days past due

     —           —     

Non-accruing loans*

     92         184   

 

  * Excludes non-accruing loans held for sale.

Beginning in 2008 and continuing through 2010, Regions has strategically reduced exposures in these product types through pro-active workouts, asset dispositions and charge-offs. Condominium has been reduced to levels that management no longer considers to be significant exposures. In 2010, Regions executed a bulk sale of non-performing assets which totaled $350 million. Non-accrual portfolio loans secured predominantly by land represented approximately $200 million of the sale, with the remaining amount primarily comprised of foreclosed property and loans held for sale. Accordingly, this transaction contributed to the decrease in non-accruing loans in the land table above. Other non-bulk note sale activity in 2010 also contributed to decreases in all of these categories.

Beginning in 2009, multi-family and retail loans experienced increased pressure and contributed to increases in non-accrual loans. Continued weak economic conditions impacted demand for products and services in these sectors. Lower demand impacted cash flows generated by these properties, leading to a higher rate of non-collection for these types of loans. Offsetting the risk of non-collection is the geographic diversity of Regions’ exposure.

The following table presents credit metrics and geographic distribution for Regions’ multi-family and retail loans at December 31:

Table 22—Multi-family and Retail

 

     2010      2009  
     (In millions, net of
unearned income)
 

Multi-family(1)

     

Loan balance

   $ 4,241       $ 5,049   

Accruing loans 90 days past due

     1         1   

Non-accruing loans*

     239         113   

 

  (1) The majority of the December 31, 2010 balance related to multi-family loans is geographically distributed throughout the following areas: Texas 20 percent, Florida 13 percent, Georgia 10 percent, Tennessee 7 percent, Louisiana 7 percent and North Carolina 6 percent. All other states, none of which comprise more than 5 percent, make up the remainder of the balance.
  * Excludes non-accruing loans held for sale.

 

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     2010      2009  
     (In millions, net of
unearned income)
 

Retail(2)

     

Loan balance

   $ 3,099       $ 4,120   

Accruing loans 90 days past due

     —           4   

Non-accruing loans*

     177         288   

 

  (2) The majority of the December 31, 2010 balance related to retail loans is geographically distributed throughout the following areas: Florida 24 percent, Texas 12 percent, Georgia 10 percent, Alabama 9 percent, Tennessee 7 percent and North Carolina 7 percent. All other states, none of which comprise more than 4 percent, make up the remainder of the balance.
  * Excludes non-accruing loans held for sale.

Strategic reductions in investor real estate exposures as discussed above drove the year-over-year decreases in multi-family and retail. While the multi-family category experienced an increase in non-accrual loans due to economic factors, this category was not a major contributor to the year-over-year change in total non-accrual loans.

Residential First Mortgage—The residential first mortgage portfolio primarily contains loans to individuals, which are secured by single-family residences that are originated through Regions’ branch network. Loans of this type are generally smaller in size than commercial or investor real estate loans and are geographically dispersed throughout Regions’ market areas, with some guaranteed by government agencies or private mortgage insurers. Losses on the residential loan portfolio depend, to a large degree, on the level of interest rates, the unemployment rate, economic conditions and collateral values. During 2010, losses on single-family residences totaled 1.53 percent, 24 basis points higher than in the previous year, primarily driven by declining property values, foreclosures and other influential economic factors, such as the unemployment rate.

The Company calculates an estimate of the current value of property secured as collateral for residential first mortgage lending products (“current LTV”). The estimate is based on home price indices compiled by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (“FHFA”). The FHFA data indicates trends for Metropolitan Statistical Areas (“MSA”). Regions uses the FHFA valuation trends from the MSAs in the Company’s footprint in its estimate. The trend data is applied to the loan portfolios taking into account the age of the most recent valuation and geographic area. At December 31, 2010, the Company estimates that the number of residential first mortgage loans where the current LTV exceeded 100 percent was approximately 4.9 percent, while approximately 10.6 percent of the outstanding balances of residential first mortgage loans had a current LTV greater than 100 percent.

Home Equity—The home equity portfolio totaled $14.2 billion at December 31, 2010, as compared to $15.4 billion at December 31, 2009. Substantially all of this portfolio was originated through Regions’ branch network. Losses in this portfolio generally track overall economic conditions. The main source of economic stress has been in Florida, where residential property values have declined significantly while unemployment rates have risen to historically high levels. Losses on relationships in Florida where Regions is in a second lien position are higher than first lien losses.

Using the same methodology described in the above discussion of residential first mortgage loans, at December 31, 2010, the Company estimates that the number of home equity loans where the current LTV exceeded 100 percent was approximately 8.2 percent, while approximately 14.3 percent of the outstanding balances of home equity loans had a current LTV greater than 100 percent. If the home equity loan is in a second lien position, the first lien has also been considered in the analysis. If the first lien position is with another institution, the Company uses the first lien outstanding balance at the time the second lien was originated.

 

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The table below provides details related to the home equity lending portfolio for the years ended December 31:

Table 23—Selected Home Equity Portfolio Information

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2010  
     Florida     All Other States     Total  
     1st Lien     2nd Lien     Total     1st Lien     2nd Lien     Total     1st Lien     2nd Lien     Total  
     (Dollars in millions)  

Balance

   $ 2,074      $ 3,167      $ 5,241      $ 4,139      $ 4,846      $ 8,985      $ 6,213      $ 8,013      $ 14,226   

Net Charge-offs

     56        237        293        34        87        121        90        324        414   

Net Charge-off %(1)

     2.66     7.12     5.38     0.80     1.71     1.30     1.42     3.85     2.80
     Year Ended December 31, 2009  
     Florida     All Other States     Total  
     1st Lien     2nd Lien     Total     1st Lien     2nd Lien     Total     1st Lien     2nd Lien     Total  
     (Dollars in millions)  

Balance

   $ 2,170      $ 3,485      $ 5,655      $ 4,395      $ 5,331      $ 9,726      $ 6,565      $ 8,816      $ 15,381   

Net Charge-offs

     59        250        309        30        76        106        89        326        415   

Net Charge-off %(1)

     2.75     7.01     5.41     0.66     1.37     1.05     1.33     3.58     2.63

 

(1) Net charge-off percentages are calculated on an annualized basis as a percent of average balances.

Indirect and Other Consumer Lending—Indirect lending, which is lending initiated through third-party business partners, is largely comprised of loans made through automotive dealerships. This portfolio class decreased $860 million or 35 percent in 2010, reflecting the 2008 suspension of new originations within the indirect auto lending business and the 2007 suspension of the marine and recreational vehicle lending business. Beginning in late 2010, the Company re-entered the indirect auto lending business. Other consumer loans, which consist primarily of borrowings for home improvements, automobiles, overdrafts and other personal household purposes, totaled $1.2 billion as of year-end and were relatively unchanged from prior year’s balance. Losses on indirect and other consumer lending increased in 2009 due to deterioration of general economic conditions, but stabilized in 2010.

Allowance for Credit Losses

The allowance for credit losses represents management’s estimate of credit losses inherent in the portfolio as of year-end. The allowance for credit losses consists of two components: the allowance for loan losses and the reserve for unfunded credit commitments. Management’s assessment of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses is based on a combination of both of these components. Regions determines its allowance for credit losses in accordance with applicable accounting literature as well as regulatory guidance related to receivables and contingencies. Binding unfunded credit commitments include items such as letters of credit, financial guarantees and binding unfunded loan commitments.

Allowance Process—Factors considered by management in determining the adequacy of the allowance include, but are not limited to: (1) detailed reviews of individual loans; (2) historical and current trends in gross and net loan charge-offs for the various classes of loans evaluated; (3) the Company’s policies relating to delinquent loans and charge-offs; (4) the level of the allowance in relation to total loans and to historical loss levels; (5) levels and trends in non-performing and past due loans; (6) collateral values of properties securing loans; (7) the composition of the loan portfolio, including unfunded credit commitments; (8) management’s analysis of current economic conditions; (9) migration of loans between risk rating categories; and (10) estimation of inherent credit losses in the portfolio. In support of collateral values, Regions obtains updated valuations for non-performing loans on at least an annual basis.

 

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Commercial and Consumer Credit Risk Management and Special Assets are all involved in the credit risk management process to assess the accuracy of risk ratings, the quality of the portfolio and the estimation of inherent credit losses in the loan portfolio. This comprehensive process also assists in the prompt identification of problem credits. The Company has taken a number of measures to manage the portfolios and reduce risk, particularly in the more problematic portfolios. In addition, a strong Customer Assistance Program is in place which educates customers about options and initiates early contact with customers to discuss solutions when a loan first becomes delinquent.

For loans that are not specifically reviewed, management uses information from its ongoing review processes to stratify the loan portfolio into pools sharing common risk characteristics. Loans that share common risk characteristics are assigned a portion of the allowance for credit losses based on the assessment process described above. Credit exposures are categorized by type and assigned estimated amounts of inherent loss based on several factors, including current and historical loss experience for each pool and management’s judgment of current economic conditions and their expected impact on credit performance. Adjustments to the allowance for credit losses calculated using a pooled approach are recorded through the provision for loan losses or noninterest expense, as applicable.

As a matter of business practice, Regions may require some form of credit support, such as a guarantee. Guarantees are legally binding and entered into simultaneously with the primary loan agreements. Regions underwrites the ability of each guarantor to perform under its guarantee in the same manner and to the same extent as would be required to underwrite the repayment plan of a direct obligor. This entails obtaining sufficient information on the guarantor, including financial and operating information, to sufficiently measure a guarantor’s ability to perform, under the guarantee. However, the benefit assigned to credit support within the calculation of the allowance for credit losses is not material to the consolidated financial statements.

At December 31, 2010, the allowance for loan losses totaled $3.2 billion or 3.84 percent of total loans, net of unearned income compared to $3.1 billion or 3.43 percent at year-end 2009. The increase in the allowance for loan loss ratio reflects management’s estimate of the level of inherent losses in the portfolio, which stabilized during 2010, as well as a result of the decline in the loan portfolio balance.

Non-performing assets decreased from $4.4 billion at December 31, 2009 to $3.9 billion at December 31, 2010, reflecting management’s efforts to work through problem assets.

Higher levels of charge-offs in 2010 as described below were also a factor in the allowance for credit losses. Net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans were 3.22 percent and 2.38 percent in 2010 and 2009, respectively. Charge-off ratios were higher across most major classes. Investor real estate losses were the largest contributor, reflecting increased charge-offs in the land, single-family and retail components of investor real estate. Increased charge-offs reflect the impact of opportunistic asset dispositions.

Net charge-offs on home equity rose to 2.80 percent in 2010 versus 2.63 percent in 2009. Losses from Florida-based credits were again particularly high, as property valuations in certain markets continued to experience deterioration. These loans and lines represent approximately $5.2 billion of Regions’ total home equity portfolio at December 31, 2010. Of that balance, approximately $2.1 billion represents first liens; second liens, which total $3.1 billion, were the main source of losses. Florida second lien losses were 7.12 percent in 2010. Total home equity losses in Florida amounted to 5.38 percent of loans and lines versus 1.30 percent across the remainder of Regions’ footprint in 2010.

Management expects charge-offs to moderate going forward, but will likely remain elevated. Real estate valuations and unemployment will impact the future level of charge-offs.

Management considers the current level of allowance for credit losses adequate to absorb losses inherent in the loan portfolio and unfunded commitments. Management’s determination of the adequacy of the allowance for

 

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credit losses, which is based on the factors and risk identification procedures previously discussed, requires the use of judgments and estimations that may change in the future. Changes in the factors used by management to determine the adequacy of the allowance or the availability of new information could cause the allowance for credit losses to be increased or decreased in future periods. In addition, bank regulatory agencies, as part of their examination process, may require changes in the level of the allowance based on their judgments and estimates.

Details regarding the allowance for credit losses, including an analysis of activity from the previous year’s total, are included in Table 24 “Allowance for Credit Losses.” Management expects the allowance for credit losses to total loans ratio to vary over time due to changes in portfolio balances, economic conditions, loan mix and collateral values, or variations in other factors that may affect inherent losses. Also, refer to Table 25 “Allocation of the Allowance for Loan Losses” for details pertaining to management’s allocation of the allowance for loan losses to each loan category.

 

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Table 24—Allowance for Credit Losses

 

    2010     2009     2008  
    (In millions)  

Allowance for loan losses at January 1

  $ 3,114      $ 1,826      $ 1,321   

Loans charged-off:

     

Commercial and industrial

    429        384        235   

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner occupied

    225        89        60   

Commercial real estate construction—owner occupied

    25        19        12   

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

    879        590        328   

Commercial investor real estate construction

    565        488        556   

Residential first mortgage

    240        206        83   

Equity

    432        442        243   

Indirect

    34        68        56   

Other consumer

    83        83        66   
                       
    2,912        2,369        1,639   

Recoveries of loans previously charged-off:

     

Commercial and industrial

    33        28        26   

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner occupied

    11        6        5   

Commercial real estate construction—owner occupied

    1        1        2   

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

    14        8        4   

Commercial investor real estate construction

    10        4        3   

Residential first mortgage

    2        4        2   

Equity

    18        27        17   

Indirect

    15        21        15   

Other consumer

    16        17        18   
                       
    120        116        92   

Net charge-offs:

     

Commercial and industrial

    396        356        209   

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner occupied

    214        83        55   

Commercial real estate construction—owner occupied

    24        18        10   

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

    865        582        324   

Commercial investor real estate construction

    555        484        553   

Residential first mortgage

    238        202        81   

Equity

    414        415        226   

Indirect

    19        47        41   

Other consumer

    67        66        48   
                       
    2,792        2,253        1,547   

Allowance allocated to sold loans and loans transferred to loans held for sale

    —          —          (5

Provision for loan losses from continuing operations

    2,863        3,541        2,057   
                       

Allowance for loan losses at December 31

    3,185        3,114        1,826   
                       

Reserve for unfunded credit commitments at January 1

    74        74        58   

Provision for unfunded credit commitments

    (3     —          16   
                       

Reserve for unfunded credit commitments at December 31

    71        74        74   
                       

Allowance for credit losses

  $ 3,256      $ 3,188      $ 1,900   
                       

Loans, net of unearned income, outstanding at end of period

  $ 82,864      $ 90,674      $ 97,419   

Average loans, net of unearned income outstanding for the period

  $ 86,660      $ 94,523      $ 97,601   

Ratios:

     

Allowance for loan losses at end of period to loans, net of unearned income

    3.84     3.43     1.87

Allowance for loan losses at end of period to non-performing loans, excluding loans held for sale

    1.01x        0.89x        1.74x   

Net charge-offs as percentage of:

     

Average loans, net of unearned income

    3.22        2.38        1.59   

Provision for loan losses

    97.5        63.6        75.2   

 

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     2007     2006  
     (In millions)  

Allowance for loan losses at January 1

   $ 1,056      $ 784   

Loans charged-off:

    

Commercial and industrial

     103        72   

Commercial real estate(1)

     39        49   

Construction

     33        10   

Residential first mortgage

     20        2   

Equity

     54        38   

Indirect

     36        18   

Other consumer

     83        31   
                
     368        220   

Recoveries of loans previously charged-off:

    

Commercial and industrial

     30        34   

Commercial real estate(1)

     9        10   

Construction

     2        3   

Residential first mortgage

     1        —     

Equity

     13        8   

Indirect

     16        8   

Other consumer

     26        17   
                
     97        80   

Net charge-offs:

    

Commercial and industrial

     73        38   

Commercial real estate(1)

     30        39   

Construction

     31        7   

Residential first mortgage

     19        2   

Equity

     41        30   

Indirect

     21        10   

Other consumer

     56        14   
                
     271        140   

Allowance of purchased institutions at acquisition date

     —          336   

Allowance allocated to sold loans and loans transferred to loans held for sale

     (19     (14

Transfer to/from reserve for unfunded credit commitments(2)

     —          (52

Provision for loan losses from continuing operations

     555        142   
                

Allowance for loan losses at December 31

     1,321        1,056   
                

Reserve for unfunded credit commitments at January 1

     52        —     

Transfer from/to allowance for loan losses(2)

     —          52   

Provision for unfunded credit commitments

     6        —     
                

Reserve for unfunded credit commitments at December 31

     58        52   
                

Allowance for credit losses

   $ 1,379      $ 1,108   
                

 

(1) Breakout of commercial real estate mortgage and construction between owner occupied and investor categories not available for periods prior to 2008.
(2) During the fourth quarter of 2006, Regions transferred the portion of the allowance for loan losses related to unfunded credit commitments to other liabilities.

 

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Loans, net of unearned income, outstanding at end of period

   $ 95,379      $ 94,551   

Average loans, net of unearned income outstanding for the period

   $ 94,372      $ 64,766   

Ratios:

    

Allowance for loan losses at end of period to loans, net of unearned income

     1.39     1.12

Allowance for loan losses at end of period to non-performing loans, excluding loans held for sale

     1.78     3.45

Net charge-offs as percentage of:

    

Average loans, net of unearned income

     0.29        0.22   

Provision for loan losses

     48.8        98.2   

Table 25—Allocation of the Allowance for Loan Losses

 

     2010     2009     2008  
     (Dollars in millions)  
     Allocation
Amount
     % of
Total
    Allocation
Amount
     % of
Total
    Allocation
Amount
     % of
Total
 

Commercial and industrial

   $ 641         20.1   $ 638         20.5   $ 466         25.5

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner occupied

     395         12.4        328         10.5        172         9.4   

Commercial real estate construction—owner occupied

     19         0.6        37         1.2        48         2.6   
                                                   

Total commercial

     1,055         33.1        1,003         32.2        686         37.5   

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

     1,030         32.3        929         29.8        403         22.1   

Commercial investor real estate construction

     340         10.7        536         17.2        369         20.2   
                                                   

Total investor real estate

     1,370         43.0        1,465         47.0        772         42.3   

Residential first mortgage

     295         9.4        213         6.9        87         4.8   

Home equity

     414         13.0        374         12.0        235         12.9   

Indirect

     17         0.5        26         0.8        28         1.5   

Other consumer

     34         1.0        33         1.1        18         1.0   
                                                   
   $ 3,185         100.0   $ 3,114         100.0   $ 1,826         100.0
                                                   
     2007     2006        
     (Dollars in millions)               
     Allocation
Amount
     % of
Total
    Allocation
Amount
     % of
Total
              

Commercial and industrial

   $ 295         22.3   $ 325         30.8     

Commercial real estate(1)

     411         31.1        307         29.1        

Construction(1)

     348         26.4        189         17.9        

Residential first mortgage

     89         6.7        58         5.5        

Home equity

     95         7.2        95         9.0        

Indirect

     52         3.9        50         4.7        

Other consumer

     31         2.4        32         3.0        
                                       
   $ 1,321         100.0   $ 1,056         100.0     
                                       

 

(1) Breakout of commercial real estate mortgage and construction between owner occupied and investor categories is not available for periods prior to 2008.

Loans deemed to be impaired include troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”), plus commercial and investor real estate non-accrual loans (excluding leases). Commercial and investor real estate impaired loans with outstanding balances equal to or greater than $2.5 million are evaluated individually for impairment. For these loans, Regions measures the level of impairment based on the present value of the estimated projected cash flows, the estimated value of the collateral or, if available, the observable market prices. For consumer TDRs,

 

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Regions measures the level of impairment based on pools of loans stratified by common risk characteristics. If current valuations are lower than the current book balance of the credit, the negative differences are reviewed for possible charge-off. In instances where management determines that a charge-off is not appropriate, a specific reserve is established for the individual loan in question. This specific reserve is incorporated as a part of the overall allowance for credit losses. The recorded investment in impaired loans was approximately $4.5 billion at December 31, 2010 and $5.0 billion at December 31, 2009. Loans that were characterized as TDRs totaled $2.1 billion and $1.9 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The allowance allocated to TDRs totaled $224 million and $57 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. For further details on impaired loans and the allowance for credit losses, see Note 5 “Allowance for Credit Losses” to the consolidated financial statements.

Regions continues to work to meet the individual needs of consumer borrowers to stem foreclosure through the Customer Assistance Program (“CAP”). Regions designed the program to allow for customer-tailored modifications with the goal of keeping customers in their homes and avoiding foreclosure where possible. Modification may be offered to any borrower experiencing financial hardship—regardless of the borrower’s payment status. Under the CAP, Regions may offer a short-term deferral, a term extension, an interest rate reduction, a new loan product, or a combination of these options. Regions evaluates the success of the modification program (the “recidivism rate”). The recidivism rate is the 60-day and greater delinquency rate inclusive of non-accruing loans for all TDRs which were restructured six months or prior to the reporting period. For CAP modifications, this rate is currently approximately 22 percent. For loans restructured under CAP, Regions expects to collect the original contractually due principal. The gross original contractual interest may be collectible, depending on the terms modified. The length of the CAP modifications ranges from temporary payment deferrals of three months to term extensions for the life of the loan. All such modifications are considered TDRs regardless of the term if there is a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulty. Modified loans are subject to policies governing accrual/nonaccrual evaluation consistent with all other loans of the same product type. Consumer loans are subject to objective accrual/nonaccrual decisions. Under these policies, loans subject to CAP are charged down to estimated value and placed on nonaccrual status on or before the month in which the loan becomes 180 days past due. Because the program was designed to evaluate potential CAP participants as early as possible in the lifecycle of the troubled loan, many of the modifications are finalized without the borrower ever reaching 180 days past due, and with the loans having never been placed on nonaccrual. Accordingly, given the positive impact of the restructuring on the likelihood of recovery of cash flows due under the modified terms, accrual status continues to be appropriate for these loans. None of the modified consumer loans listed in the TDR disclosures were collateral-dependent at the time of modification. At December 31, 2010, approximately $153 million in residential first mortgage TDRs and approximately $9 million in home equity TDRs were in excess of 180 days past due and are considered collateral-dependent.

 

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Residential first mortgage, home equity and other consumer TDRs are consumer loans modified under the CAP. Commercial and investor real estate are not the result of a formal program, but represent situations where modification was offered as a workout alternative. The following table summarizes TDRs for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009:

Table 26—Troubled Debt Restructurings

 

     December 31, 2010      December 31, 2009  
     Loan
Balance
     Allowance for
Credit Losses
     Loan
Balance
     Allowance for
Credit Losses
 
     (In millions)  

Accruing:

           

Commercial

   $ 77       $ 5       $ 24       $ 2   

Investor real estate

     192         4         1         —     

Residential first mortgage

     813         97         1,291         29   

Home equity

     335         42         241         5   

Other consumer

     66         1         51         1   
                                   
   $ 1,483       $ 149       $ 1,608       $ 37   
                                   

Non-accrual status or 90 days past due:

           

Commercial

   $ 105       $ 23       $ 17       $ 2   

Investor real estate

     198         20         75         16   

Residential first mortgage

     240         28         178         1   

Home equity

     30         4         17         1   
                                   
     573         75         287         20   
                                   
   $ 2,056       $ 224       $ 1,895       $ 57   
                                   

 

Notes:

1.

  All loans listed in the table above are considered impaired under applicable accounting literature.

2.

 

Net charge-offs on commercial TDRs were approximately $72 million and $9 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Net charge-offs on investor real estate TDRs were approximately $63 million and $3 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Net charge-offs on residential first mortgage TDRs were approximately $109 million and $57 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Net charge-offs on home equity TDRs were approximately $41 million and $14 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Net charge-offs on other consumer TDRs were approximately $7 million and $4 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

NON-PERFORMING ASSETS

Non-performing assets consist of loans on non-accrual status and foreclosed properties. Loans are placed on non-accrual status when management has determined that payment of all contractual principal and interest is in doubt, or the loan is past due 90 days or more as to principal and interest unless well-secured and in the process of collection. When a commercial loan is placed on non-accrual status, uncollected interest accrued in the current year is reversed and charged to interest income. Uncollected interest accrued from prior years on commercial loans placed on non-accrual status in the current year is charged against the allowance for loan losses. When a consumer loan is placed on non-accrual status, all uncollected interest accrued is reversed and charged to interest income.

At December 31, 2010, non-performing assets totaled $3.9 billion, or 4.70 percent of ending loans and other real estate , compared to $4.4 billion, or 4.83 percent of loans of loans and other real estate, at December 31, 2009. The decrease in non-performing assets during the year ended December 31, 2010 reflects the Company’s efforts to work through problem assets and reduce the riskiest exposures.

 

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Foreclosed properties, a subset of non-performing assets, totaled $454 million at December 31, 2010 and $607 million at December 31, 2009, reflecting dispositions and valuation charges due to continued stress on property values. Regions’ foreclosed properties are composed primarily of a number of small to medium-size properties that are diversified geographically throughout the franchise. Foreclosed properties are recorded at the lower of the recorded investment in the loan or fair value less the estimated cost to sell. Table 27 “Non-Performing Assets” presents information on non-performing loans and foreclosed properties acquired in settlement of loans.

Management expects non-performing assets to stabilize going forward, but will likely remain elevated as compared to historical levels. Economic trends such as real estate valuations and unemployment will impact the future level of non-performing assets.

Table 27—Non-Performing Assets

 

     2010     2009     2008  
     (Dollars in millions)  

Non-performing loans:

      

Commercial and industrial

   $ 467      $ 427      $ 176   

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner occupied

     606        560        157   

Commercial real estate construction—owner occupied

     29        50        26   
                        

Total commercial

     1,102        1,037        359   

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

     1,265        1,203        292   

Commercial investor real estate construction

     452        1,067        273   
                        

Total investor real estate

     1,717        2,270        565   

Residential first mortgage

     285        180        125   

Home equity

     56        1        3   
                        

Total non-performing loans, excluding loans held for sale

     3,160        3,488        1,052   

Non-performing loans held for sale

     304        317        423   
                        

Total non-performing loans*

     3,464        3,805        1,475   

Foreclosed properties

     454        607        243   
                        

Total non-performing assets*

   $ 3,918      $ 4,412      $ 1,718   
                        

Accruing loans 90 days past due:

      

Commercial and industrial

   $ 9      $ 24      $ 14   

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner occupied

     6        16        9   

Commercial real estate construction—owner occupied

     1        2        3   
                        

Total commercial

     16        42        26   

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

     5        22        12   

Commercial investor real estate construction

     1        8        12   
                        

Total investor real estate

     6        30        24   

Residential first mortgage

     359        361        275   

Home equity

     198        241        214   

Indirect

     2        6        8   

Other consumer

     4        8        7   
                        
   $ 585      $ 688      $ 554   
                        

Restructured loans not included in the categories above

   $ 1,483      $ 1,608      $ 455   

Non-performing loans* to loans, net of unearned income

     4.18     4.20     1.51

Non-performing assets* to loans, net of unearned income, plus foreclosed properties

     4.70     4.83     1.76

 

* Exclusive of accruing loans 90 days past due

 

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     2007     2006  
     (Dollars in millions)  

Non-performing loans:

    

Commercial and industrial

   $ 92      $ 57   

Commercial real estate(1)

     263        128   

Construction(1)

     310        57   

Residential first mortgage

     72        54   

Home equity

     7        10   
                

Total non-performing loans

     744        306   

Foreclosed properties

     120        73   
                

Total non-performing assets*

   $ 864      $ 379   
                

Non-performing loans* to loans, net of unearned income

     0.78     0.32

Non-performing assets* excluding loans held for sale, to loans, net of unearned income and foreclosed properties

     0.90     0.40

Non-performing assets* to loans, net of unearned income and foreclosed properties

     0.90     0.40

Accruing loans 90 days past due:

    

Commercial and industrial

   $ 12      $ 10   

Commercial real estate(1)

     12        26   

Construction(1)

     19        15   

Residential first mortgage

     155        44   

Home equity

     147        41   

Indirect

     6        3   

Other consumer

     6        5   
                
   $ 357      $ 144   
                

 

* Exclusive of accruing loans 90 days past due
(1) Breakout of commercial real estate mortgage and construction between owner occupied and investor categories not available for periods prior to 2008.

Loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing totaled $585 million as of year-end 2010, a decrease of $103 million from year-end 2009 levels, reflecting improvement across all loan categories.

At December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, Regions had approximately $800 million and $1.2 billion, respectively, of potential problem commercial and investor real estate loans that were not included in non-accrual loans, but for which management had concerns as to the ability of such borrowers to comply with their present loan repayment terms.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE AND INTERNAL CONTROLS

Regions has always maintained internal controls over financial reporting, which generally include those controls relating to the preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. Regions’ process for evaluating internal controls over financial reporting starts with understanding the risks facing each of its functions and areas; how those risks are controlled or mitigated; and how management monitors those controls to ensure that they are in place and effective. These risks, control procedures and monitoring tools are documented in a standard format. This format not only documents the internal control structures over all significant accounts, but also places responsibility on management for establishing feedback mechanisms to ensure that controls are effective. These monitoring procedures are also part of management’s testing of internal controls. At least quarterly, each area updates and assesses the adequacy of its documented internal controls. If changes are necessary, updates are made more frequently.

 

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Regions has also established processes to ensure appropriate disclosure controls and procedures are maintained. These controls and procedures as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) are generally designed to ensure that financial and non-financial information required to be disclosed in reports filed with the SEC is reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Regions’ Disclosure Review Committee, which includes representatives from the legal, risk management, accounting, investor relations and audit departments, meets quarterly to review recent internal and external events to determine whether all appropriate disclosures have been made in reports filed with the SEC. In addition, the CEO and CFO meet quarterly with the SEC Filings Review Committee, which includes senior representatives from accounting, legal, risk management, audit, and operations and technology, as well as from the core business segments. The SEC Filings Review Committee reviews certain reports to be filed with the SEC, including Forms 10-K and 10-Q and evaluates the adequacy and accuracy of the disclosures. As part of this process, certifications of internal control effectiveness are obtained from all core business segments, accounting, legal, risk management, and operations and technology. These certifications are reviewed and presented to the CEO and CFO as evidence of the Company’s assessment of internal controls over financial reporting. The Forms 10-K and 10-Q are presented to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors for approval. Financial results and other financial information are also reviewed with the Audit Committee on a quarterly basis.

As required by applicable regulatory pronouncements, the CEO and the CFO review and make various certifications regarding the accuracy of Regions’ periodic public reports filed with the SEC, as well as the effectiveness of disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls over financial reporting. With the assistance of the financial review committees, Regions will continue to assess and monitor disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls over financial reporting, and will make refinements as necessary.

COMPARISON OF 2009 WITH 2008

Regions reported a net loss available to common shareholders of $1.3 billion or $1.27 per diluted common share in 2009. Significant drivers of 2009 results include an elevated provision for loan losses and pressured net interest income. Offsetting these items to some extent was Regions’ solid fee and mortgage income.

Net loss from continuing operations in 2009 was $1.3 billion, or $1.27 per diluted common share, compared to net loss from continuing operations of $5.6 billion, or $8.07 per diluted share in 2008. Regions incurred an $18 million pre-tax loss related to EquiFirst resulting in an after-tax net loss of $11 million, for the year ended December 31, 2008, which was accounted for as discontinued operations. Net income in 2008 includes after-tax merger charges of $125 million, or $0.18 per diluted share and a $6 billion non-cash goodwill impairment charge, or $8.63 per diluted share.

Net interest income was $3.3 billion in 2009 compared to $3.8 billion in 2008. The net interest margin (taxable-equivalent basis) was 2.67 percent in 2009, compared to 3.23 percent during 2008. The decline in the net interest margin was impacted primarily by factors directly and indirectly associated with the erosion of economic and industry conditions since late 2007. These factors include Regions’ asset sensitive balance sheet, which was impacted by an unfavorable decline in the general level and shape of the yield curve, higher spreads on new debt issuances, and rising non-performing asset levels. Additionally, loan yields declined throughout the year, as variable rate loans fell in response to declines in the short-term rates to which they are tied. Declining deposit rates partially offset these movements, but the decline was somewhat limited by the competitive demand for deposits within the industry, largely prompted by stressed economic conditions throughout the U.S.

The following discussion of non-interest income and expense is from continuing operations and excludes EquiFirst, which is reported separately as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of operations. Non-interest income totaled $3.8 billion in 2009, compared to $3.1 billion in 2008. The increase in non-interest

 

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income was primarily due to revenue generated from unwinding certain leveraged lease transactions during the year. However, this revenue was more than offset by the related income tax expense, resulting in an insignificant aggregate impact to net income. Excluding the leveraged lease terminations, results reflected an increase in mortgage income, primarily due to customers taking advantage of historically low mortgage rates, which drove higher mortgage originations and slightly higher service charges income. In addition, non-interest income was aided by a gain on the early extinguishment of debt realized in connection with the Company’s issuance of common stock in exchange for trust preferred securities.

Offsetting the non-interest income increases, brokerage, investment banking and capital markets revenue decreased in 2009 to $989 million compared to $1.0 billion in 2008 due to lower fees from investment banking and capital markets. In addition, trust income fees were negatively impacted by lower asset valuations due to the disarray in the markets during the year. Non-interest income (excluding securities transactions and leveraged lease gains) as a percent of total revenue (on a fully taxable-equivalent basis) equaled 44 percent in 2009 compared to 43 percent in 2008. The increase is primarily due to higher mortgage income and a decline in net interest income in 2009.

Service charges on deposit accounts increased 1 percent to $1.2 billion in 2009 from $1.1 billion in 2008. This modest increase was the result of an increase in interchange income due to higher volumes, partially offset by a decline in overdraft and insufficient funds revenues. Total revenues from overdrafts and insufficient funds charges were $605 million in 2009 and $622 million in 2008.

In 2009, mortgage income increased $121 million, or 88 percent to $259 million. The increase was due to increased refinance activity as customers took advantage of historically low mortgage rates, resulting in $9.6 billion in mortgage originations during the year, compared to $5.4 billion in 2008. Market valuation adjustments for mortgage servicing rights and related derivatives added $13 million to mortgage income in 2009. No such income was recorded in the previous year.

Regions reported net gains of $69 million from the sale of securities available for sale in 2009, compared to net gains of $92 million in 2008. During 2009, the company significantly reduced its exposure in non-agency investment securities, collateralized mortgage-backed securities and municipal securities and through these measures incurred some losses on the sales. The Company’s gains were due to increased sales activity within the available for sale category as part of the Company’s asset/liability management strategies. The proceeds from the sales in 2009 and 2008 were reinvested in U.S. government agency mortgage-backed securities classified as available for sale.

Total non-interest expense for 2008 included a $6 billion non-cash goodwill impairment charge and $201 million in merger-related charges. Non-interest expense was $4.8 billion in 2009, reflecting higher securities impairments and FDIC insurance costs.

Salaries and employee benefits decreased 4 percent to $2.3 billion in 2009 compared to $2.4 billion in 2008, Included in total salaries and employee benefits in 2008 are merger charges totaling $134 million. The year-over-year decrease in salaries and employee benefits cost is the due to a 7 percent decline in headcount. At December 31, 2009, Regions had 28,509 employees compared to 30,784 at December 31, 2008.

Net occupancy expense increased 3 percent to $454 million in 2009, due primarily to charges associated with the 2009 decision to consolidate 121 branches. Also, included in net occupancy expense in 2008 were merger charges of $4 million, reflecting costs to vacate leases due to the merger.

Furniture and equipment expense decreased $24 million to $311 million in 2009. This decrease is primarily due to lower depreciation; however 2009 branch consolidation charges of $7 million partially offset the decreases. Included in furniture and equipment expense were merger charges of $5 million in 2008.

 

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Professional and legal fees are comprised of amounts related to legal, consulting and other professional fees. These fees increased $95 million to $309 million in 2009. Included in professional fees during 2008 were $7 million of merger-related charges. The increase in 2009 is primarily due to higher legal expenses incurred at Morgan Keegan and credit-related legal costs (such as legal fees associated with loan work-outs).

Other real estate owned (“OREO”) expenses include the cost of adjusting foreclosed properties to fair value after these assets have been classified as OREO and net gains and losses on sales of properties, as well as other costs to maintain the property such as property taxes, security, grounds maintenance, etc. Foreclosed properties balances increased $364 million to $607 million in 2009 compared to $243 million in 2008 due to increasing numbers of foreclosures. OREO expense increased $72 million to $175 million in 2009 compared to $103 million in 2008, driven by the significant increase in OREO balances, coupled with property valuation declines resulting from further deterioration of the housing and real estate markets.

Marketing expenses decreased $22 million during 2009 to $75 million compared to $97 million in 2008. The decrease was driven by $13 million of merger-related charges in 2008.

Mortgage servicing rights impairment was $85 million in 2008. There was no impairment related to mortgage servicing rights in 2009 as the Company elected the fair value method as of January 1, 2009.

FDIC premiums, including a special assessment, increased $212 million to $227 million in 2009. The increases resulted from higher premium rates applied to a higher level of insured deposit balances. The FDIC made a number of changes to its assessment rate schedule, which drove the increase in premium rates. The bank regulatory agencies’ ratings, comprised of Regions Bank’s capital, asset quality, management, earnings, liquidity and sensitivity to risk, along with its long-term debt issuer ratings and financial ratios, were the primary factors in determining FDIC insurance premiums.

Other miscellaneous expenses include communications, and business development services. Other miscellaneous expenses decreased $186 million to $736 million in 2009. Included in other miscellaneous expenses are merger charges totaling $38 million in 2008. The decline in 2009 was attributable to several factors. As discussed above, in January 2009, Regions began accounting for mortgage servicing rights at fair market value with any changes to fair value being recorded in mortgage income. At that time, Regions was no longer required to adjust non-interest expense for amortization of mortgage servicing rights. The impact of the amortization expense for 2008 was $75 million and there was no corresponding impact in 2009. Also, included in other non-interest expense in 2008 was $49 million of write-downs on investments in two Morgan Keegan mutual funds with no similar expense during 2009.

Regions’ 2009 benefit for income taxes from continuing operations decreased $177 million to a tax benefit of $171 million compared to a tax benefit of $348 million in 2008. The decrease in the benefit is primarily related to the tax expenses on leveraged lease terminations in 2009.

Net charge-offs totaled $2.3 billion, or 2.38 percent of average loans in 2009 compared to $1.5 billion, or 1.59 percent of average loans in 2008. The increased loss rate reflected ongoing pressure in property valuations and continued strains in the economy as a whole. Non-performing assets increased $2.7 billion between December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008 to $4.4 billion, primarily due to continued weakness in the Company’s land, single-family and condominium portfolios. Non-performing assets held for sale totaled $317 million and $423 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

The provision for loan losses is used to maintain the allowance for loan losses at a level that in management’s judgment is adequate to cover losses inherent in the portfolio at the balance sheet date. During 2009 the provision for loan losses was $3.5 billion and net charge-offs were $2.3 billion. This compares to a

 

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provision for loan losses of $2.1 billion and net charge-offs of $1.5 billion in 2008. The increase in the provision was primarily due to focused efforts to identify and address loan portfolio pressure, as well as continued deterioration in the land, single-family, condominium and home equity portfolios. Income-producing investor real estate, including multi-family and retail, also contributed to the increased level of non-performing loans, which significantly impacts the level of the provision.

At December 31, 2009, the allowance for loan losses totaled $3.1 billion or 3.43 percent of total loans, net of unearned income compared to $1.8 billion or 1.87 percent at year-end 2008. The increase in the allowance for loan loss ratio reflects management’s estimate of the level of inherent losses in the portfolio, which continued to increase during 2009 due to a recessionary economy, rising unemployment, a weakened housing market and deterioration in income-producing properties. The increase in non-performing assets, driven by land, single-family and condominium loans and income producing investor real estate loans, was a key determining dynamic in the assessment of inherent losses and, as a result, was an important factor in determining the allowance level. Additionally, unfavorable migration between risk rating categories drove higher allowance allocation rates for these loan portfolios.

Table 28—Quarterly Results of Operations

 

    2010     2009  
    Fourth
Quarter
    Third
Quarter
    Second
Quarter
    First
Quarter
    Fourth
Quarter
    Third
Quarter
    Second
Quarter
    First
Quarter
 
    (In millions, except per share data)  

Total interest income

  $ 1,136      $ 1,158      $ 1,180      $ 1,215      $ 1,288      $ 1,314      $ 1,351      $ 1,379   

Total interest expense

    259        290        324        384        438        469        520        570   
                                                               

Net interest income

    877        868        856        831        850        845        831        809   

Provision for loan losses

    682        760        651        770        1,179        1,025        912        425   
                                                               

Net interest income (loss) after provision for loan losses

    195        108        205        61        (329     (180     (81     384   

Total non-interest income, excluding securities gains (losses), net

    880        748        756        753        814        768        1,091        1,013   

Securities gains (losses), net

    333        2        —          59        (96     4        108        53   

Total non-interest expense

    1,266        1,163        1,326        1,230        1,219        1,243        1,231        1,058   
                                                               

Income (loss) before income taxes

    142        (305     (365     (357     (830     (651     (113     392   

Income tax expense (benefit)

    53        (150     (88     (161     (287     (274     75        315   
                                                               

Net income (loss)

  $ 89      $ (155   $ (277   $ (196   $ (543   $ (377   $ (188   $ 77   
                                                               

Net income (loss) available to common shareholders

  $ 36      $ (209   $ (335   $ (255   $ (606   $ (437   $ (244   $ 26   
                                                               

Earnings (loss) per share available to common shareholders:

               

Basic

  $ 0.03      $ (0.17   $ (0.28   $ (0.21   $ (0.51   $ (0.37   $ (0.28   $ 0.04   

Diluted

    0.03        (0.17     (0.28     (0.21     (0.51     (0.37     (0.28     0.04   

Cash dividends declared per share

    0.01        0.01        0.01        0.01        0.01        0.01        0.01        0.10   

Market price:

               

High

    7.62        7.76        9.33        8.05        6.29        6.91        7.60        9.07   

Low

    5.12        6.12        6.55        5.33        4.61        3.30        3.66        2.35   

 

Notes:  

1. Quarterly amounts may not add to year-to-date amounts due to rounding.

2. High and low market prices are based on intraday sales prices.

 

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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

REPORT OF MANAGEMENT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

We, as members of the Management of Regions Financial Corporation (the “Company”), are responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. Regions’ internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management and Board of Directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of the Company’s financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Internal control over financial reporting includes self-monitoring mechanisms, and actions are taken to correct deficiencies as they are identified.

All internal controls systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations and may not prevent or detect misstatements in the Company’s financial statements, including the possibility of circumvention or overriding of controls. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Regions’ management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010. In making this assessment, we used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in its Internal Control—Integrated Framework. Based on our assessment, we believe and assert that, as of December 31, 2010, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.

Regions’ independent registered public accounting firm has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. This report appears on the following page.

 

    REGIONS FINANCIAL CORPORATION
by   /s/    O. B. GRAYSON HALL, JR.        
 

O. B. Grayson Hall, Jr.

President and Chief Executive Officer

by   /s/    DAVID J. TURNER, JR.        
 

David J. Turner, Jr.

Chief Financial Officer

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS OF REGIONS FINANCIAL CORPORATION

We have audited Regions Financial Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). Regions Financial Corporation’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, Regions Financial Corporation maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Regions Financial Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010 of Regions Financial Corporation and our report dated February 24, 2011, expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

LOGO

Birmingham, Alabama

February 24, 2011

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS OF REGIONS FINANCIAL CORPORATION

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Regions Financial Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Regions Financial Corporation and subsidiaries at December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Regions Financial Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 24, 2011, expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

LOGO

Birmingham, Alabama

February 24, 2011

 

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REGIONS FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

     December 31  
         2010             2009      
     (In millions, except share data)  
Assets     

Cash and due from banks

   $ 1,643      $ 2,052   

Interest-bearing deposits in other banks

     4,880        5,580   

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

     396        379   

Trading account assets

     1,116        3,039   

Securities available for sale

     23,289        24,069   

Securities held to maturity (estimated fair value of $26 and $31, respectively)

     24        31   

Loans held for sale (includes $1,174 and $780 measured at fair value, respectively)

     1,485        1,511   

Loans, net of unearned income

     82,864        90,674   

Allowance for loan losses

     (3,185     (3,114
                

Net loans

     79,679        87,560   

Other interest-earning assets

     1,219        734   

Premises and equipment, net

     2,569        2,668   

Interest receivable

     421        468   

Goodwill

     5,561        5,557   

Mortgage servicing rights

     267        247   

Other identifiable intangible assets

     385        503   

Other assets

     9,417        7,920   
                

Total assets

   $ 132,351      $ 142,318   
                
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity     

Deposits:

    

Non-interest-bearing

   $ 25,733      $ 23,204   

Interest-bearing

     68,881        75,476   
                

Total deposits

     94,614        98,680   

Borrowed funds:

    

Short-term borrowings:

    

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase

     2,716        1,893   

Other short-term borrowings

     1,221        1,775   
                

Total short-term borrowings

     3,937        3,668   

Long-term borrowings

     13,190        18,464   
                

Total borrowed funds

     17,127        22,132   

Other liabilities

     3,876        3,625   
                

Total liabilities

     115,617        124,437   

Stockholders’ equity:

    

Preferred stock, authorized 10 million shares

    

Series A, cumulative perpetual participating, par value $1.00 (liquidation preference $1,000.00) per share, net of discount;
Issued—3,500,000 shares

     3,380        3,343   

Series B, mandatorily convertible, cumulative perpetual participating, par value $1,000.00 (liquidation preference $1,000.00) per share;
Issued—0 and 267,665 shares, respectively

     —          259   

Common stock, par value $.01 per share:

    

Authorized 3 billion shares at December 31, 2010 and 1.5 billion shares at December 31, 2009

    

Issued including treasury stock—1,299,000,755 and 1,235,850,589 shares, respectively

     13        12   

Additional paid-in capital

     19,050        18,781   

Retained earnings (deficit)

     (4,047     (3,235

Treasury stock, at cost—42,764,258 and 43,241,020 shares, respectively

     (1,402     (1,409

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net

     (260     130   
                

Total stockholders’ equity

     16,734        17,881   
                

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

   $ 132,351      $ 142,318   
                

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

 

     Year Ended December 31  
         2010         2009         2008      
     (In millions, except per share data)  

Interest income on:

      

Loans, including fees

   $   3,705      $ 4,199      $ 5,550   

Securities:

      

Taxable

     873        966        828   

Tax-exempt

     1        19        40   
                        

Total securities

     874        985        868   

Loans held for sale

     39        55        35   

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

     3        3        18   

Trading account assets

     41        62        63   

Other interest-earning assets

     27        28        29   
                        

Total interest income

     4,689        5,332        6,563   

Interest expense on:

      

Deposits

     755        1,277        1,724   

Short-term borrowings

     10        54        369   

Long-term borrowings

     492        666        627   
                        

Total interest expense

     1,257        1,997        2,720   
                        

Net interest income

     3,432        3,335        3,843   

Provision for loan losses

     2,863        3,541        2,057   
                        

Net interest income (loss) after provision for loan losses

     569        (206     1,786   

Non-interest income:

      

Service charges on deposit accounts

     1,174        1,156        1,148   

Brokerage, investment banking and capital markets

     1,059        989        1,027   

Mortgage income

     247        259        138   

Trust department income

     196        191        234   

Securities gains, net

     394        69        92   

Leveraged lease termination gains

     78        587        —     

Other

     383        504        434   
                        

Total non-interest income

     3,531        3,755        3,073   

Non-interest expense:

      

Salaries and employee benefits

     2,318        2,269        2,356   

Net occupancy expense

     448        454        442   

Furniture and equipment expense

     304        311        335   

Other-than-temporary impairments(1)

     2        75        23   

Goodwill impairment

     —          —          6,000   

Regulatory charge

     200        —          —     

Other

     1,713        1,642        1,636   
                        

Total non-interest expense

     4,985        4,751        10,792   
                        

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes

     (885     (1,202     (5,933

Income tax benefit

     (346     (171     (348
                        

Income (loss) from continuing operations

     (539     (1,031     (5,585

Discontinued operations:

      

Loss from discontinued operations before income taxes

     —          —          (18

Income tax benefit

     —          —          (7
                        

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

     —          —          (11
                        

Net income (loss)

   $ (539   $ (1,031   $ (5,596
                        

Net income (loss) from continuing operations available to common shareholders

   $ (763   $ (1,261   $ (5,611
                        

Net income (loss) available to common shareholders

   $ (763   $ (1,261   $ (5,622
                        

Weighted-average number of shares outstanding:

      

Basic

     1,227        989        695   

Diluted

     1,227        989        695   

Earnings (loss) per common share from continuing operations

      

Basic

   $ (0.62   $ (1.27   $ (8.07

Diluted

     (0.62     (1.27     (8.07

Earnings (loss) per common share:

      

Basic

     (0.62     (1.27     (8.09

Diluted

     (0.62     (1.27     (8.09

Cash dividends declared per common share

     0.04        0.13        0.96   

 

(1) Includes $266 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, of gross charges, net of $191 million of non-credit portion reported in other comprehensive income (loss). For 2008, there was no non-credit component. The corresponding 2010 amounts are immaterial.

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

    Preferred Stock     Common Stock     Additional
Paid-In
Capital
    Retained
Earnings
(Deficit)
    Treasury
Stock,
At Cost
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
    Total  
               
               
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount            
    (In millions, except share and per share data)  

BALANCE AT JANUARY 1, 2008

    —        $ —          694      $ 7      $ 16,545      $ 4,439      $ (1,371   $ 203      $ 19,823   

Cumulative effect of change in accounting principles due to adoption of new accounting literature

    —          —          —          —          —          (17     —          —          (17

Comprehensive income (loss):

                 

Net income (loss)

    —          —          —          —          —          (5,596     —          —          (5,596

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale, net of tax and reclassification adjustment (1)

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          (101     (101

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on derivative instruments, net of tax and reclassification adjustment (1)

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          190        190   

Net change from defined benefit pension plans, net of tax (1)

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          (314     (314
                       

Comprehensive income (loss)

                    (5,821

Cash dividends declared—$0.96 per share

    —          —          —          —          —          (669     —          —          (669

Preferred dividends

    —          —          —          —          —          (26     —          —          (26

Preferred stock transactions:

                 

Proceeds from issuance of 3,500,000 shares of preferred stock

    4        3,304        —          —          —          —          —          —          3,304   

Proceeds from issuance of 48,253,677 common stock warrant

    —          —          —          —          196        —          —          —          196   

Discount accretion

    —          3        —          —          —          —          —          —          3   

Common stock transactions:

                 

Impact of stock transactions under compensation plans, net

    —          —          (3     —          74        —          (54     —          20   
                                                                       

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2008

    4        3,307        691        7        16,815        (1,869     (1,425     (22     16,813   

Comprehensive income (loss):

                 

Net income (loss)

    —          —          —          —          —          (1,031     —          —          (1,031

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale, net of tax and reclassification adjustment (1)

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          277        277   

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on derivative instruments, net of tax and reclassification
adjustment (1)

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          (133     (133

Net change from defined benefit pension plans, net of tax (1)

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          8        8   
                       

Comprehensive income (loss)

                    (879

Cash dividends declared—$0.13 per share

    —          —          —          —          —          (105     —          —          (105

Preferred dividends

    —          —          —          —          —          (194     —          —          (194

Preferred stock transactions:

                 

Net proceeds from issuance of 287,500 shares of mandatorily convertible preferred stock

    —          278        —          —          —          —          —          —          278   

Discount accretion

    —          36        —          —          —          (36     —          —          —     

Conversion of Series B shares

    —          (19     —          —          —          —          —          —          (19

Common stock transactions:

                 

Net proceeds from issuance of 460 million shares of common stock

    —          —          460        5        1,764        —          —          —          1,769   

Issuance of 33 million shares of common stock issued in connection with early extinguishment of debt

    —          —          33        —          135        —          —          —          135   

Conversion of Series B shares

    —          —          5        —          19        —          —          —          19   

Impact of stock transactions under compensation plans, net

    —          —          4        —          48        —          16        —          64   
                                                                       

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2009

    4      $ 3,602        1,193      $ 12      $ 18,781      $ (3,235   $ (1,409   $ 130      $ 17,881   

 

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY—Continued

 

    Preferred Stock     Common Stock     Additional
Paid-In
Capital
    Retained
Earnings
(Deficit)
    Treasury
Stock,
At Cost
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
    Total  
               
               
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount            
    (In millions, except share and per share data)  

Comprehensive income (loss):

                 

Net income (loss)

    —        $ —          —        $ —        $ —        $ (539   $ —        $ —        $ (539

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on

                 

Securities available for sale, net of tax and reclassification adjustment(1)

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          (194     (194

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on derivative instruments, net of tax and reclassification adjustment(1)

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          (166     (166

Net change from defined benefit pension plans, net of tax(1)

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          (30     (30
                       

Comprehensive income (loss)

                    (929

Cash dividends declared—$0.04 per share

    —          —          —          —          —          (49     —          —          (49

Preferred dividends

    —          —          —          —          3        (187     —          —          (184

Preferred stock transactions:

                 

Conversion of mandatorily convertible preferred stock into 63 million shares of common stock

    —          (259     63        1        258        —          —          —          —     

Discount accretion

    —          37        —          —          —          (37     —          —          —     

Common stock transactions:

                 

Impact of stock transactions under compensation plans, net

    —          —          —          —          8        —          7        —          15   
                                                                       

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2010

    4      $ 3,380        1,256      $ 13      $ 19,050      $ (4,047   $ (1,402   $ (260   $ 16,734   
                                                                       

 

(1) See disclosure of reclassification adjustment amount and tax effect, as applicable, in Note 14 to consolidated financial statements.

 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

     Year Ended December 31  
         2010         2009         2008      
     (In millions)  

Operating activities:

      

Net income (loss)

   $ (539   $ (1,031   $ (5,596

Adjustments to reconcile net cash provided by operating activities:

      

Provision for loan losses

     2,863        3,541        2,057   

Impairment of goodwill

     —          —          6,000   

Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment

     284        284        286   

Impairment of mortgage servicing rights

     —          —          85   

Provision for losses on other real estate, net

     168        142        88   

Net amortization (accretion) of securities

     220        10        (15

Net amortization of loans and other assets

     233        252        122   

Net accretion of deposits and borrowings

     (5     (19     (15

Net securities gains

     (394     (69     (92

Net loss on sale of premises and equipment

     —          —          3   

Loss (gain) on early extinguishment of debt

     108        (61     66   

Other-than-temporary impairments, net

     2        75        23   

Deferred income tax (benefit) expense

     (210     245        (407

Excess tax benefits from share-based payments

     —          (4     —     

Originations and purchases of loans held for sale

     (5,148     (7,409     (3,079

Proceeds from sales of loans held for sale

     5,875        7,650        3,849   

Gain on sale of loans, net

     (107     (96     (57

Valuation charges on loans held for sale

     45        25        —     

Loss from sale of mortgage servicing rights

     —          —          15   

Decrease (increase) in trading account assets

     1,923        (1,989     88   

(Increase) decrease in other interest-earning assets

     (485     163        (392

Decrease (increase) in interest receivable

     47        (10     158   

(Increase) decrease in other assets

     (876     462        (584

Increase (decrease) in other liabilities

     224        (90     (764

Other

     (1     (52     168   
                        

Net cash from operating activities

     4,227        2,019        2,007   

Investing activities:

      

Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale

     10,340        5,451        2,142   

Proceeds from maturities of:

      

Securities available for sale

     8,012        5,405        3,181   

Securities held to maturity

     6        17        9   

Purchases of:

      

Securities available for sale

     (17,701     (15,646     (6,848

Securities held to maturity

     —          —          (5

Proceeds from sales of loans

     2,233        645        1,247   

Proceeds from sales of mortgage servicing rights

     —          —          44   

Net decrease (increase) in loans

     1,385        2,443        (6,433

Net purchases of premises and equipment

     (191     (234     (464

Net cash received from deposits assumed

     —          279        894   
                        

Net cash from investing activities

     4,084        (1,640     (6,233

Financing activities:

      

Net (decrease) increase in deposits

     (4,066     7,501        (4,757

Net increase (decrease) in short-term borrowings

     269        (12,154     4,702   

Proceeds from long-term borrowings

     3,743        2,792        11,606   

Payments on long-term borrowings

     (9,116     (3,246     (3,955

Net proceeds from issuance of mandatorily convertible preferred stock

     —          278        —     

Net proceeds from issuance of common stock

     —          1,769        —     

Issuance of preferred stock and common stock warrant

     —          —          3,500   

Cash dividends on common stock

     (49     (105     (669

Cash dividends on preferred stock

     (184     (194     —     

Proceeds from stock transactions under compensation plans

     —          14        27   

Excess tax benefits from share-based payments

     —          4        —     
                        

Net cash from financing activities

     (9,403     (3,341     10,454   
                        

Decrease in cash and cash equivalents

     (1,092     (2,962     6,228   

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     8,011        10,973        4,745   
                        

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 6,919      $ 8,011      $ 10,973   
                        

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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REGIONS FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Regions Financial Corporation (“Regions” or “the Company”) provides a full range of banking and bank-related services to individual and corporate customers through its subsidiaries and branch offices located primarily in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. The Company is subject to competition from other financial institutions, is subject to the regulations of certain government agencies and undergoes periodic examinations by those regulatory authorities.

The accounting and reporting policies of Regions and the methods of applying those policies that materially affect the accompanying consolidated financial statements conform with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) and with general financial services industry practices. In preparing the financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the balance sheet dates and revenues and expenses for the periods presented. Actual results could differ from the estimates and assumptions used in the consolidated financial statements including, but not limited to, the estimates and assumptions related to the allowance for credit losses, intangibles, mortgage servicing rights and income taxes.

Regions has evaluated all subsequent events for potential recognition and disclosure through the filing date of this Form 10-K.

Certain amounts in prior period financial statements have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation, except as otherwise noted. These reclassifications are immaterial and have no effect on net income (loss), total assets or stockholders’ equity.

BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Regions, its subsidiaries and certain variable interest entities (“VIEs”). Significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. Regions considers a voting rights entity to be a subsidiary and consolidates it if Regions has a controlling financial interest in the entity. VIEs are consolidated if Regions has the power to direct the significant activities of the VIE that impact financial performance and has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant (i.e., Regions is considered to be the primary beneficiary). Unconsolidated investments in voting rights entities or VIEs in which Regions has significant influence over operating and financing decisions (usually defined as a voting or economic interest of 20 percent to 50 percent) are accounted for using the equity method. Unconsolidated investments in voting rights entities or VIEs in which Regions has a voting or economic interest of less than 20 percent are generally carried at cost. See Note 2 for further discussion of VIEs.

CASH AND CASH FLOWS

Cash equivalents include cash and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits in other banks, and federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell. Cash flows from loans, either originated or acquired, are classified at that time according to management’s original intent to either sell or hold the loan for the foreseeable future. When management’s intent is to sell the loan, the cash flows of that loan are presented as operating cash flows. When management’s intent is to hold the loan for the foreseeable future, the cash flows of that loan are presented as investing cash flows.

 

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The following table summarizes supplemental cash flow information for the years ended December 31:

 

     2010     2009      2008  
     (In millions)  

Cash paid (received) during the period for:

       

Interest

   $ 1,442      $ 2,086       $ 2,800   

Income taxes, net

     (555     137         267   

Loans transferred to other real estate

     649        890         414   

Student loans transferred to loans held for sale

     —          —           792   

Nonperforming loans transferred to loans held for sale

     594        374         482   

Properties transferred to held for sale

     6        68         —     

SECURITIES PURCHASED UNDER AGREEMENTS TO RESELL AND SECURITIES SOLD UNDER AGREEMENTS TO REPURCHASE

Securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase are treated as collateralized financing transactions. It is Regions’ policy to take possession of securities purchased under resell agreements.

TRADING ACCOUNT ASSETS

Trading account assets, which are primarily held for the purpose of selling at a profit, consist of debt and marketable equity securities and are carried at estimated fair value. Gains and losses, both realized and unrealized, are included in brokerage, investment banking and capital markets income.

SECURITIES

Management determines the appropriate classification of debt and equity securities at the time of purchase and periodically re-evaluates such designations. Debt securities are classified as securities held to maturity when the Company has the intent and ability to hold the securities to maturity. Securities held to maturity are stated at amortized cost. Debt securities not classified as securities held to maturity or trading account assets and marketable equity securities not classified as trading account assets are classified as securities available for sale. Securities available for sale are stated at estimated fair value with changes in unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, reported as a component of other comprehensive income (loss). See Note 21 for discussion of determining fair value.

The amortized cost of debt securities classified as securities held to maturity and securities available for sale is adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity, or in the case of mortgage-backed securities, over the estimated life of the security, using the effective yield method. Such amortization or accretion is included in interest income on securities. Realized gains and losses are included in net securities gains (losses). The cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method.

The Company reviews its securities portfolio on a regular basis to determine if there are any conditions indicating that a security has other-than-temporary impairment. Factors considered in this determination include the length of time and the extent to which the market value has been below cost, the credit standing of the issuer, Regions’ intent to sell and whether it is more likely than not that the Company will have to sell the security before its market value recovers. Activity related to the credit loss component of other-than-temporary impairment is recognized in earnings. For debt securities, the portion of other-than-temporary impairment related to all factors other than credit is recognized in other comprehensive income. See Note 3 for discussion and details of other-than-temporary impairment.

 

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LOANS HELD FOR SALE

At December 31, 2010 and 2009, loans held for sale included commercial loans, investor real estate loans, residential real estate mortgage loans and student loans. Commercial and investor real estate loans held for sale consist of certain non-performing loans for which management has the intent to sell in the near term. Regions primarily classifies new 15 and 30-year conforming residential real estate mortgage loans as held for sale based on intent, which is determined when Regions enters into an interest rate lock commitment on this loan type. Regions has elected the fair value option for residential mortgage loans held for sale. Residential real estate mortgage loans not designated as held for sale are retained based on available liquidity, interest rate risk management and other business purposes. Student loans held for sale include certain loans for which management has the intent to sell in the near term. Commercial and investor real estate loans held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value, and student loans held for sale are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or estimated fair value. See Note 21 for discussion of determining fair value. Gains and losses on commercial and investor real estate loans held for sale are included in other non-interest expense. Gains and losses on residential mortgage loans held for sale for which the fair value option has been elected are included in mortgage income. Gains and losses on all other loans held for sale are classified as other non-interest income.

LOANS

Loans are carried at the principal amount outstanding, net of premiums, discounts, unearned income and deferred loan fees and costs. Interest income on loans is accrued based on the contractual interest rate and the principal amount outstanding, except for those loans classified as non-accrual. Premiums and discounts on purchased loans and non-refundable loan origination and commitment fees, net of direct costs of originating or acquiring loans, are deferred and recognized over the estimated lives of the related loans as an adjustment to the loans’ effective yield, which is included in interest income on loans.

Regions engages in both direct and leveraged lease financing. The net investment in direct financing leases is the sum of all minimum lease payments and estimated residual values, less unearned income. Unearned income is recognized over the terms of the leases to produce a level yield. The net investment in leveraged leases is the sum of all lease payments (less non-recourse debt payments), plus estimated residual values, less unearned income. Income from leveraged leases is recognized over the term of the leases based on the unrecovered equity investment.

Loans are placed on non-accrual status when management has determined that full payment of all contractual principal and interest is in doubt, or based on a period of delinquency, unless the loan is well-secured and in the process of collection. When a commercial loan is placed on non-accrual status, uncollected interest accrued in the current year is reversed and charged to interest income. Uncollected interest accrued from prior years on commercial loans placed on non-accrual status in the current year is charged against the allowance for loan losses. When a consumer loan is placed on non-accrual status, all uncollected interest accrued is reversed and charged to interest income. Interest collections on non-accrual loans are applied as principal reductions. Regions determines past due or delinquency status of a loan based on contractual payment terms.

Charge-offs on commercial and investor real estate loans occur when available information confirms the loan is not fully collectible and the loss is reasonably quantifiable. Consumer loans are subject to mandatory charge-off at a specified delinquency date consistent with regulatory guidelines.

ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES

Through provisions charged directly to expense, Regions has established an allowance for credit losses (“allowance”). This allowance is comprised of two components: the allowance for loan and lease losses, which is a contra-asset to loans, and a reserve for unfunded credit commitments, which is recorded in other liabilities. The allowance is reduced by actual losses and increased by recoveries, if any. Regions charges losses against the allowance in the period the loss is confirmed.

 

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The allowance is maintained at a level believed adequate by management to absorb probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio and in accordance with GAAP and regulatory guidelines. Management’s determination of the adequacy of the allowance is a quarterly process and is based on an evaluation and rating of the loan portfolio segments, historical loan loss experience, current economic conditions, collateral values of properties securing loans, volume, growth, quality and composition of the loan portfolio segments, regulatory guidance, and other relevant factors. Changes in any of these, or other factors, or the availability of new information, could require that the allowance be adjusted in future periods. Actual losses could vary from management’s estimates. Management attributes portions of the allowance to loans that it evaluates and determines to be impaired and to groups of loans that it evaluates collectively. The remaining allowance is available to cover all charge-offs that arise from the loan portfolio.

In determining the appropriate level of allowance, management uses information to stratify the loan portfolio segments into loan pools with common risk characteristics. Classes in the commercial and investor real estate portfolio segments are disaggregated based upon underlying credit quality and probability of default. Classes in the consumer portfolio segment are disaggregated by accrual status. Certain portions of the allowance are attributed to loan pools based on various factors and analyses, including but not limited to, current and historical loss experience trends and levels of problem credits, current economic conditions, changes in product mix and underwriting. Loans deemed to be impaired include non-accrual loans, excluding consumer loans, and troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”). Impaired loans with outstanding balances greater than or equal to $2.5 million are evaluated individually rather than on a pool basis as described above. For these loans, Regions measures the level of impairment based on the present value of the estimated projected cash flows, the estimated value of the collateral or, if available, the observable market price. Regions generally uses the estimated projected cash flow method to measure impairment. For consumer TDRs, Regions measures the level of impairment based on pools of loans stratified by common risk characteristics.

In order to estimate a reserve for unfunded commitments, Regions uses a process consistent with that used in developing the allowance for loan losses. Regions estimates future fundings, which are less than the total unfunded commitment amounts, based on historical funding experience. Allowance for loan loss factors, which are based on product and customer type and are consistent with the factors used for portfolio loans, are applied to these funding estimates to arrive at the reserve balance. Changes in the reserve for unfunded commitments are recognized in other non-interest expense.

PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

Premises and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization, as applicable. Depreciation expense is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the improvements (or the terms of the leases, if shorter). Generally, premises and leasehold improvements are depreciated or amortized over 10-40 years. Furniture and equipment are generally depreciated or amortized over 3-12 years.

Regions enters into lease transactions for the right to use assets. These leases vary in term and, from time to time, include incentives and/or rent escalations. Examples of incentives include periods of “free” rent and leasehold improvement incentives. Regions recognizes incentives and escalations on a straight-line basis over the lease term as a reduction of or increase to rent expense, as applicable, in net occupancy expense in the consolidated statements of operations.

INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Intangible assets include goodwill, which is the excess of cost over the fair value of net assets of acquired businesses, and other identifiable intangible assets. Other identifiable intangible assets include the following: (1) core deposit intangible assets, which are amounts recorded related to the value of acquired indeterminate-maturity deposits, (2) amounts capitalized related to the value of acquired customer relationships and (3) amounts

 

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recorded related to employment agreements with certain individuals of acquired entities. Core deposit intangibles and most other identifiable intangibles are amortized on an accelerated basis over their expected useful lives.

The Company’s goodwill is tested for impairment on an annual basis, or more often if events or circumstances indicate that there may be impairment. Regions assesses the following indicators of goodwill impairment for each reporting period:

 

   

Recent operating performance,

 

   

Changes in market capitalization,

 

   

Regulatory actions and assessments,

 

   

Changes in the business climate (including legislation, legal factors and competition),

 

   

Company-specific factors (including changes in key personnel, asset impairments, and business dispositions), and

 

   

Trends in the banking industry.

Adverse changes in the economic environment, declining operations, or other factors could result in a decline in the implied fair value of goodwill. A goodwill impairment test includes two steps. Step One, used to identify potential impairment, compares the estimated fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the estimated fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is considered not impaired. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its estimated fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. Step Two of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied estimated fair value of reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of goodwill for that reporting unit exceeds the implied fair value of that unit’s goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

For purposes of performing Step One of the goodwill impairment test, Regions uses both the income and market approaches to value its reporting units. Regions uses the output from these approaches to determine estimated fair value of the reporting unit. The income approach, which is the primary valuation approach, consists of discounting projected long-term future cash flows, which are derived from internal forecasts and economic expectations for the respective reporting units. The projected future cash flows are discounted using cost of capital metrics for Regions’ peer group or a build-up approach (such as the capital asset pricing model) applicable to each reporting unit. The significant inputs to the income approach include expected future cash flows, which are primarily driven by the long-term target tangible equity to tangible assets ratio, and the discount rate, which is determined in the build-up approach using the risk-free rate of return, adjusted equity beta, equity risk premium, and a company-specific risk factor. The company-specific risk factor is used to address the uncertainty of growth estimates and earnings projections of management.

Regions uses the public company method and the transaction method as the two market approaches. The public company method applies a value multiplier derived from each reporting unit’s peer group to a financial metric of the reporting unit (e.g. last twelve months of earnings before interest, taxes and depreciation, tangible book value, etc.) and an implied control premium to the respective reporting unit. The control premium is evaluated and compared to similar financial services transactions. The transaction method applies a value multiplier to a financial metric of the reporting unit based on comparable observed purchase transactions in the financial services industry for the reporting unit (where available).

For purposes of performing Step Two of the goodwill impairment test, if applicable, Regions compares the implied estimated fair value of the reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. In order to determine the implied estimated fair value, a full purchase price allocation would be performed in the same manner as if a business combination had occurred. As part of the Step Two analysis, Regions estimates the fair

 

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value of all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit, including unrecognized assets and liabilities. The related valuation methodologies for certain material financial assets and liabilities are discussed in Note 21.

Other identifiable intangible assets are reviewed at least annually for events or circumstances that could impact the recoverability of the intangible asset. These events could include loss of core deposits, increased competition or adverse changes in the economy. To the extent other identifiable intangible assets are deemed unrecoverable, impairment losses are recorded in other non-interest expense to reduce the carrying amount.

Refer to Note 8 for further discussion of the results of the goodwill and other identifiable intangibles impairment tests.

ACCOUNTING FOR TRANSFERS AND SERVICING OF FINANCIAL ASSETS

Regions accounts for transfers of financial assets as sales when control over the transferred assets is surrendered. Control is generally considered to have been surrendered when (i) the transferred assets are legally isolated from the Company or its consolidated affiliates, even in bankruptcy or other receivership, (ii) the transferee has the right to pledge or exchange the assets with no conditions that constrain the transferee and provide more than a trivial benefit to the Company, and (iii) the Company does not maintain the obligation or unilateral ability to reclaim or repurchase the assets. If these sale criterion are met, the transferred assets are removed from the Company’s balance sheet and a gain or loss on sale is recognized. If not met, the transfer is recorded as a secured borrowing, and the assets remain on the Company’s balance sheet, the proceeds from the transaction are recognized as a liability, and gain or loss on sale is deferred until the sale criterion are achieved.

Prior to January 1, 2009, amounts capitalized for the right to service mortgage loans were amortized as a component of other non-interest expense over the estimated remaining lives of the loans, considering appropriate prepayment assumptions. Mortgage servicing rights were recorded at the lower of aggregate cost or estimated fair value on a stratified basis. For purposes of evaluating impairment, the Company stratified its mortgage servicing portfolio on the basis of certain risk characteristics, including loan type and interest rate. Impairment related to mortgage servicing rights was recorded in other non-interest expense. Contractually specified servicing fees, late fees and other ancillary income related to the servicing of mortgage loans were recorded in mortgage income.

Effective January 1, 2009, the Company made an election to prospectively change the policy for accounting for residential mortgage servicing rights from the amortization method to the fair value measurement method. Under the fair value measurement method, servicing assets are measured at fair value each period with changes in fair value recorded as a component of mortgage income. Additionally, during the third quarter of 2009, Regions adopted an option-adjusted spread (“OAS”) valuation approach. The OAS represents the average spread over the LIBOR swap curve that equates the asset’s discounted cash flows to its market price.

The fair value of mortgage servicing rights is calculated using various assumptions including future cash flows, market discount rates, expected prepayment rates, servicing costs and other factors. A significant change in prepayments of mortgages in the servicing portfolio could result in significant changes in the valuation adjustments, thus creating potential volatility in the carrying amount of mortgage servicing rights. See Note 21 for additional discussion regarding determination of fair value.

FORECLOSED PROPERTY AND OTHER REAL ESTATE

Other real estate and certain other assets acquired in satisfaction of indebtedness (“foreclosure”) are carried in other assets at the lower of the recorded investment in the loan or fair value less estimated costs to sell the property. At or shortly after the date of transfer, when the recorded investment in the loan exceeds the property’s fair value less costs to sell, write-downs are recorded as charge-offs against the allowance. Subsequent to transfer, additional write-downs are recorded as other non-interest expense. Gain or loss on the sale of foreclosed property and other real estate is included in other non-interest expense. See Note 9 for details.

 

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From time to time, assets classified as premises and equipment are transferred to held for sale for various reasons. These assets are carried in other assets at the lower of the recorded investment in the asset or fair value less estimated cost to sell based upon the property’s appraised value at the date of transfer. Any write-downs of property held for sale are recorded as other non-interest expense. At December 31, 2010 and 2009, the carrying values of premises and equipment held for sale were approximately $28 million and $56 million, respectively.

DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

The Company enters into derivative financial instruments to manage interest rate risk, facilitate asset/liability management strategies and manage other exposures. These instruments primarily include interest rate swaps, options on interest rate swaps, interest rate caps and floors, Eurodollar futures, and forward sale commitments. All derivative financial instruments are recognized on the consolidated balance sheets as other assets or other liabilities, as applicable, at estimated fair value. Regions enters into master netting agreements with counterparties and/or requires collateral based on counterparty credit ratings to cover exposures.

Interest rate swaps are agreements to exchange interest payments based upon notional amounts. Interest rate swaps subject Regions to market risk associated with changes in interest rates, as well as the credit risk that the counterparty will fail to perform. Option contracts involve rights to buy or sell financial instruments on a specified date or over a period at a specified price. These rights do not have to be exercised. Some option contracts such as interest rate floors, involve the exchange of cash based on changes in specified indices. Interest rate floors are contracts to hedge interest rate declines based on a notional amount. Interest rate floors subject Regions to market risk associated with changes in interest rates, as well as the credit risk that the counterparty will fail to perform. Forward rate contracts are commitments to buy or sell financial instruments at a future date at a specified price or yield. Regions primarily enters into forward rate contracts on marketable instruments, which expose Regions to market risk associated with changes in the value of the underlying financial instrument, as well as the credit risk that the counterparty will fail to perform. Eurodollar futures are futures contracts on Eurodollar deposits. Eurodollar futures subject Regions to market risk associated with changes in interest rates. Because futures contracts are cash settled daily, there is minimal credit risk associated with Eurodollar futures.

Qualifying derivative financial instruments are designated, based on the exposure being hedged, as either fair value or cash flow hedges. For derivative financial instruments not designated as fair value or cash flow hedges, gains and losses related to the change in fair value are recognized in earnings during the period of change in fair value as brokerage, investment banking and capital markets income.

Fair value hedge relationships mitigate exposure to the change in fair value of an asset, liability or firm commitment. Under the fair value hedging model, gains or losses attributable to the change in fair value of the derivative instrument, as well as the gains and losses attributable to the change in fair value of the hedged item, are recognized in earnings in the period in which the change in fair value occurs. Hedge ineffectiveness is recognized to the extent the changes in fair value of the derivative do not offset the changes in fair value of the hedged item as other non-interest expense. The corresponding adjustment to the hedged asset or liability is included in the basis of the hedged item, while the corresponding change in the fair value of the derivative instrument is recorded as an adjustment to other assets or other liabilities, as applicable.

Cash flow hedge relationships mitigate exposure to the variability of future cash flows or other forecasted transactions. For cash flow hedge relationships, the effective portion of the gain or loss related to the derivative instrument is recognized as a component of other comprehensive income. The ineffective portion of the gain or loss related to the derivative instrument, if any, is recognized in earnings as other non-interest expense during the period of change. Amounts recorded in other comprehensive income are recognized in earnings in the period or periods during which the hedged item impacts earnings.

The Company formally documents all hedging relationships between hedging instruments and the hedged items, as well as its risk management objective and strategy for entering into various hedge transactions. The

 

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Company performs periodic assessments to determine whether the hedging relationship has been highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of hedged items and whether the relationship is expected to continue to be highly effective in the future.

When a hedge is terminated or hedge accounting is discontinued because the hedged item no longer meets the definition of a firm commitment, or because it is probable that the forecasted transaction will not occur by the end of the specified time period, the derivative will continue to be recorded in the consolidated balance sheets at its estimated fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in brokerage, investment banking and capital markets income. Any asset or liability that was recorded pursuant to recognition of the firm commitment is removed from the consolidated balance sheets and recognized in other non-interest expense. Gains and losses that were accumulated in other comprehensive income pursuant to the hedge of a forecasted transaction are recognized immediately in other non-interest expense.

Derivative contracts that do not qualify for hedge accounting are classified as trading with gains and losses related to the change in fair value recognized in the statement of operations during the period. These positions are used to mitigate economic and accounting volatility related to customer derivative transactions, as well as non-derivative instruments.

Regions enters into interest rate lock commitments, which are commitments to originate mortgage loans whereby the interest rate on the loan is determined prior to funding and the customers have locked into that interest rate. Accordingly, such commitments are recorded at estimated fair value with changes in fair value recorded in mortgage income. Regions also has corresponding forward sale commitments related to these interest rate lock commitments, which are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in mortgage income. See Note 21 for additional information related to the valuation of interest rate lock commitments.

Regions enters into various derivative agreements with customers desiring protection from possible future market fluctuations. Regions manages the market risk associated with these derivative agreements in a trading portfolio. The contracts in this portfolio do not qualify for hedge accounting and are marked-to-market through earnings and included in other assets and other liabilities.

Concurrent with the election to use fair value measurement for mortgage servicing rights referred to above, Regions began using various derivative instruments to mitigate the impact of changes in the fair value of mortgage servicing rights in the statements of operations. The instruments are primarily forward rate commitments but can include futures and swaptions. These derivatives are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value reported in mortgage income.

INCOME TAXES

The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for expected future tax consequences. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined by applying the federal and state tax rates to the differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the corresponding tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets are also recorded for any tax attributes, such as tax credit carryforwards and net operating losses. Any effect of a change in federal and state tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income tax expense in the period that includes the enactment date. The Company reflects either the expected amount of income tax expense to be refunded or paid during the year within current income tax (benefit)/expense, as applicable.

The Company evaluates the realization of deferred tax assets based on all positive and negative evidence available at the balance sheet date. Realization of deferred tax assets is based on the Company’s judgments, including taxable income within any applicable carryback periods, future projected taxable income, reversal of taxable temporary differences and other tax-planning strategies to maximize realization of the deferred tax assets. A valuation allowance is recorded for any deferred tax assets that are not more-likely-than-not to be realized. See

 

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Note 19 for additional discussion regarding income taxes. Income tax benefits generated from uncertain tax positions are accounted for using the recognition and cumulative-probability measurement thresholds. Based on the technical merits, if a tax benefit is not more-likely-than-not of being sustained upon examination, the Company records a liability for the recognized income tax benefit. If a tax benefit is more-likely-than-not of being sustained based on the technical merits, the Company utilizes the cumulative probability measurement and records an income tax benefit equivalent to the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority. The Company recognizes interest expense, interest income and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within current income tax expense.

TREASURY STOCK

The purchase of the Company’s common stock is recorded at cost. At the date of retirement or subsequent reissuance, treasury stock is reduced by the cost of such stock with differences recorded in additional paid-in capital or retained earnings, as applicable.

SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS

Compensation cost for share-based payments is measured based on the fair value of the award, which most commonly includes restricted stock (i.e., unvested common stock) and stock options, at the grant date and is recognized in the consolidated financial statements on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for service-based awards. The fair value of restricted stock or restricted stock units is determined based on the closing price of Regions’ common stock on the date of grant. The fair value of stock options where vesting is based on service is estimated at the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option pricing model and related assumptions. Expected volatility considers implied volatility from traded options on the Company’s stock and, primarily, historical volatility of the Company’s stock. Regions considers historical data to estimate future option exercise behavior, which is used to derive an option’s expected term. The expected term represents the period of time that options are expected to be outstanding from the grant date. Historical data is also used to estimate future employee attrition, which is used to calculate an expected forfeiture rate. Groups of employees that have similar historical exercise behavior are reviewed and considered for valuation purposes. The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant and the weighted-average expected life of the grant. Beginning in 2009, Regions issued restricted stock units payable solely in cash (“cash-settled RSUs”), which are accounted for as liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. The cash settled RSUs are subject to a vesting period ranging from two weeks to one year and, following the vesting period, are subject to transfer restrictions and a delayed payment, which can range from six months to two years. The grant date fair value of the award is determined in the same manner as other restricted stock awards and is charged to the statements of operations over the vesting period. Changes in Regions’ stock price over the delayed payment period are charged to the statements of operations.

REVENUE RECOGNITION

The largest source of revenue for Regions is interest income. Interest income is recognized on an accrual basis driven by nondiscretionary formulas based on written contracts, such as loan agreements or securities contracts. Credit-related fees, including letter of credit fees, are recognized in non-interest income when earned. Regions recognizes commission revenue and brokerage, exchange and clearance fees on a trade-date basis. Other types of non-interest revenues, such as service charges on deposits and trust revenues, are accrued and recognized into income as services are provided and the amount of fees earned are reasonably determinable.

PER SHARE AMOUNTS

Earnings (loss) per common share computations are based upon the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings (loss) per common share computations are based upon the weighted- average number of shares outstanding during the period, plus the effect of outstanding stock options

 

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and stock performance awards if dilutive. The diluted earnings (loss) per common share computation also assumes conversion of any outstanding convertible preferred stock and warrants, unless such an assumed conversion would be antidilutive.

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Fair value guidance establishes a framework for using fair value to measure assets and liabilities and defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) as opposed to the price that would be paid to acquire the asset or received to assume the liability (an entry price). A fair value measure should reflect the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including the assumptions about the risk inherent in a particular valuation technique, the effect of a restriction on the sale or use of an asset and the risk of nonperformance. Required disclosures include stratification of balance sheet amounts measured at fair value based on inputs the company uses to derive fair value measurements. These strata include:

 

   

Level 1 valuations, where the valuation is based on quoted market prices for identical assets or liabilities traded in active markets (which include exchanges and over-the-counter markets with sufficient volume),

 

   

Level 2 valuations, where the valuation is based on quoted market prices for similar instruments traded in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market, and

 

   

Level 3 valuations, where the valuation is generated from model-based techniques that use significant assumptions not observable in the market, but observable based on Company-specific data. These unobservable assumptions reflect the Company’s own estimates for assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Valuation techniques typically include option pricing models, discounted cash flow models and similar techniques, but may also include the use of market prices of assets or liabilities that are not directly comparable to the subject asset or liability.

See Note 21 for additional information related to fair value measurements.

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

As a result of the sale of EquiFirst Corporation (“EquiFirst”), a wholly owned non-conforming mortgage origination subsidiary, on March 30, 2007, the business related to EquiFirst has been accounted for as discontinued operations with the results presented separately on the consolidated statements of operations. Regions recognized a loss from discontinued operations, net of tax, in the amount of $11 million for the year ending December 31, 2008. The results from discontinued operations did not impact the years ending December 31, 2010 or 2009.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS AND ACCOUNTING CHANGES

In January 2009, the FASB issued guidance amending impairment guidance relating to purchased beneficial interests and beneficial interests that are held by a transferor in securitized financial assets. The amended guidance aims to provide a more consistent determination of whether an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred. Additionally, the guidance retains and emphasizes the objective of an other-than-temporary impairment assessment and the related disclosure requirements for certain debt and equity securities. This guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after December 15, 2008, and is applied prospectively. Regions adopted this guidance as of December 31, 2008, and the effect of adoption on the consolidated financial statements was not material.

 

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In April 2009, the FASB issued additional guidance for estimating fair value when the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability have significantly decreased. Additionally, the guidance addresses circumstances that indicate a transaction is not orderly. The guidance emphasizes that even if there has been a significant decrease in the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability and regardless of the valuation technique(s) used, the objective of a fair value measurement remains the same. This guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, and is applied prospectively. Regions adopted these provisions during the second quarter of 2009, and the effect of the adoption on the consolidated financial statements was not material.

In April 2009, the FASB issued additional guidance modifying and expanding other-than-temporary impairment existing guidance for debt securities. This guidance addresses the unique features of debt securities and clarifies the interaction of the factors that should be considered when determining whether a debt security is other-than-temporarily impaired. Additionally, it requires an entity to recognize the credit component of an other-than-temporary impairment of a debt security in earnings and the noncredit component in other comprehensive income when the entity does not intend to sell the security and it is more likely than not that the entity will not be required to sell the security prior to recovery. The guidance also expands and increases the frequency of existing disclosures about other-than-temporary impairments for debt and equity securities. This guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, and is applied prospectively. Regions adopted these provisions during the second quarter of 2009. Refer to Note 3 for additional information.

In June 2009, the FASB issued accounting guidance related to the accounting for transfers of financial assets. This guidance eliminates the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity from consolidation guidance and the exception for guaranteed mortgage securitizations when a transferor had not surrendered control over the transferred financial assets. The guidance changes the requirements for derecognizing financial assets and also calls for additional disclosures about transfers of financial assets. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2009 and its adoption did not have a material impact to the consolidated financial statements.

In June 2009, the FASB issued accounting guidance modifying how a company determines when a variable interest entity (“VIE”) should be consolidated. It also requires a qualitative assessment of an entity’s determination of the primary beneficiary of a VIE based on whether the entity (1) has the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, and (2) has the obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE. An ongoing reassessment is also required to determine whether a company is the primary beneficiary of a VIE as well as additional disclosures about a company’s involvement in VIEs. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2009 and its adoption did not have a material impact to the consolidated financial statements.

In August 2009, the FASB issued updated guidance to further guidance on how to measure the fair value of a liability and is effective for the first reporting period beginning after August 26, 2009. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact to the consolidated financial statements.

In January 2010, the FASB issued accounting guidance regarding disclosures of fair value measurements. The guidance requires additional disclosures related to the transfers in and out of fair value hierarchy and the activity of Level 3 financial instruments. The guidance also provides clarification for the classification of financial instruments and the discussion of inputs and valuation techniques. The new disclosures and clarification are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2009, except for the disclosures related to the activity of Level 3 financial instruments. Those disclosures are effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2010 and for interim periods within those years. All provisions of the guidance were adopted by Regions during the first quarter of 2010. See Note 21 for additional information regarding fair value measurements.

 

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In February 2010, the FASB issued updated guidance which defers, for certain investment funds, the consolidation requirements as a result of updated consolidation guidance. Specifically, the deferral is applicable for a reporting entity’s interest in an entity (1) that has all the attributes of an investment company or (2) for which it is industry practice to apply measurement principles for financial reporting purposes that are consistent with those followed by investment companies. This guidance is effective for periods beginning after November 15, 2009. Regions adopted its provisions during the first quarter of 2010. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact to the consolidated financial statements.

In February 2010, the FASB issued accounting guidance related to the consolidation of certain investment funds deferring, for those certain investment funds, the consolidation requirements that had resulted from guidance previously issued. Specifically, the deferral is applicable for a reporting entity’s interest in an entity (1) that has all the attributes of an investment company or (2) for which it is industry practice to apply measurement principles for financial reporting purposes that are consistent with those followed by investment companies. This guidance is effective for periods beginning after November 15, 2009. Regions adopted its provisions during the first quarter of 2010. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact to the consolidated financial statements.

In March 2010, the FASB issued accounting guidance relating to the scope exception related to embedded credit derivatives amending and clarifying the accounting for credit derivatives embedded in interests in securitized financial assets. This guidance is effective for interim periods beginning after June 15, 2010 and its adoption did not have a material impact to the consolidated financial statements.

In July 2010, the FASB issued accounting guidance related to disclosures about the credit quality of financing receivables and the allowance for credit losses. The amended guidance applies to all financing receivables except for short-term trade receivables and receivables measured at either fair value or the lower of cost or fair value. The objective of the amendment is disclosure of information that enables financial statement users to understand the nature of inherent credit risks, the entity’s method of analysis and assessment of credit risk in estimating the allowance for credit losses, and the reasons for changes in both the receivables and allowances when examining a creditor’s portfolio of financing receivables and its allowance for losses. Under the new guidance, the disaggregation of financing receivables will be disclosed by portfolio segment or by class of financing receivable. The amended guidance is applicable to period-end balances beginning with the first interim or annual reporting period ending on or after December 15, 2010. Regions adopted this guidance as of December 31, 2010 for the disclosures related to end of period financial reporting. See Note 5 for additional information regarding the allowance for credit losses.

FUTURE APPLICATION OF ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

In October 2010, the FASB issued guidance addressing the diversity in practice regarding which costs related to the acquisition or renewal of insurance contracts qualify as deferred acquisition costs for insurance entities. This update amends guidance related to financial services by requiring that costs incurred with the acquisition and renewal of insurance contracts be capitalized as deferred acquisition costs. Incremental direct costs, portions of employees’ compensation associated with time spent acquiring contracts, and other costs directly relating to the advertising, underwriting, issuing and processing of insurance policies are costs that should be capitalized to the extent that they would not have otherwise been incurred had the contracts not been successfully acquired. The amended guidance is effective for fiscal years, and for interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2011. Early adoption at the beginning of an entity’s fiscal year is permitted. Regions is in the process of reviewing the potential impact of this guidance; however, its adoption is not expected to have a material impact to the consolidated financial statements.

In December 2010, the FASB issued guidance for the consideration an entity must give regarding whether it is more likely than not that goodwill impairment exists for each reporting unit with a zero or negative carrying amount. As a result, an entity can no longer assert that a reporting unit is not required to perform the second step

 

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of the goodwill impairment test because the carrying amount of the reporting unit is zero or negative, despite the existence of the qualitative factors that indicate goodwill is more likely than not impaired. The amended guidance is effective for fiscal years, and for interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2010, with early adoption prohibited. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact to the consolidated financial statements.

NOTE 2. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES

Regions is involved in various entities that are considered to be VIEs, as defined by authoritative accounting literature. Generally, a VIE is a corporation, partnership, trust or other legal structure that either does not have equity investors with substantive voting rights or has equity investors that do not provide sufficient financial resources for the entity to support its activities. The following discusses the VIEs in which Regions has a significant interest.

Regions owns the common stock of subsidiary business trusts, which have issued mandatorily redeemable preferred capital securities (“trust preferred securities”) in the aggregate of approximately $1 billion at the time of issuance. These trusts meet the definition of a VIE of which Regions is not the primary beneficiary; the trusts’ only assets are junior subordinated debentures issued by Regions, which were acquired by the trusts using the proceeds from the issuance of the trust preferred securities and common stock. The junior subordinated debentures are included in long-term borrowings (see Note 12 ) and Regions’ equity interests in the business trusts are included in other assets. Interest expense on the junior subordinated debentures is reported in interest expense on long-term borrowings. For regulatory reporting and capital adequacy purposes, the Federal Reserve Board has indicated that such trust preferred securities will continue to constitute Tier 1 capital.

Regions Morgan Keegan Timberland Group, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Regions, operates and acts as trustee for timber land and related assets in timber land funds, primarily serving institutional investors. These funds individually meet the definition of a VIE, of which Regions is not the primary beneficiary, and collectively meet the criteria for a qualified asset manager; accordingly, Regions Morgan Keegan Timberland Group does not currently consolidate these funds. The accounting standard related to consolidation accounting for qualified asset managers is expected to be revisited at some point in the future.

Regions periodically invests in various limited partnerships that sponsor affordable housing projects, which are funded through a combination of debt and equity. These partnerships meet the definition of a VIE. Due to the nature of the management activities of the general partner, Regions is not the primary beneficiary of these partnerships and accounts for these investments using the equity method. Regions reports its equity share of the partnership gains and losses as an adjustment to non-interest income. The Company also receives credits toward its federal income tax liabilities, which are reported as a reduction of income tax expense (or increase to income tax benefit). Additionally, Regions has short-term construction loans or letters of credit commitments with certain limited partnerships. The funded portion of the short-term loans and letters of credit is classified as commercial and industrial loans on the consolidated balance sheets.

A summary of Regions’ equity method investments and related loans and letters of credit, representing Regions’ maximum exposure to loss as of December 31 is as follows:

 

     2010      2009  
     (In millions)  

Equity method investments included in other assets

   $ 893       $ 827   

Unfunded commitments included in other liabilities

     196         258   

Short-term construction loans and letters of credit commitments

     213         324   

Funded portion of short-term loans and letters of credit

     61         150   

 

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NOTE 3. SECURITIES

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of securities available for sale and securities held to maturity are as follows:

 

     December 31, 2010  
     Amortized
Cost
     Gross
Unrealized
Gains
     Gross
Unrealized
Losses
    Estimated
Fair
Value
 
     (In millions)  

Securities available for sale:

          

U.S. Treasury securities

   $ 85       $ 6       $ —        $ 91   

Federal agency securities

     16         —           —          16   

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

     23         7         —          30   

Mortgage-backed securities:

          

Residential agency

     21,735         265         (155     21,845   

Residential non-agency

     20         2         —          22   

Commercial agency

     113         2         (3     112   

Commercial non-agency

     103         —           (3     100   

Other debt securities

     27         —           (2     25   

Equity securities

     1,047         1         —          1,048   
                                  
   $ 23,169       $ 283       $ (163   $ 23,289   
                                  

Securities held to maturity:

          

U.S. Treasury securities

   $ 5       $ 1       $ —        $ 6   

Federal agency securities

     5         —           —          5   

Mortgage-backed securities:

          

Residential agency

     12         1         —          13   

Other debt securities

     2         —           —          2   
                                  
   $ 24       $ 2       $ —        $ 26   
                                  

 

     December 31, 2009  
     Amortized
Cost
     Gross
Unrealized
Gains
     Gross
Unrealized
Losses
    Estimated
Fair
Value
 
     (In millions)  

Securities available for sale:

          

U.S. Treasury securities

   $ 46       $ 4       $ —        $ 50   

Federal agency securities

     44         1         —          45   

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

     70         —           —          70   

Mortgage-backed securities:

          

Residential agency

     22,271         474         (61     22,684   

Residential non-agency

     33         3         —          36   

Commercial agency

     20         1         —          21   

Other debt securities

     22         —           (3     19   

Equity securities

     1,132         12         —          1,144   
                                  
   $ 23,638       $ 495       $ (64   $ 24,069   
                                  

Securities held to maturity:

          

U.S. Treasury securities

   $ 7       $ —         $ —        $ 7   

Federal agency securities

     6         —           —          6   

Mortgage-backed securities:

          

Residential agency

     16         —           —          16   

Other debt securities

     2         —           —          2   
                                  
   $ 31       $ —         $ —        $ 31   
                                  

 

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Equity securities in the table above included the following amortized cost related to Federal Reserve Bank stock and Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) stock. Shares in the Federal Reserve Bank and FHLB are accounted for at amortized cost, which approximates fair value.

 

         For the Years Ended December 31      
     2010      2009  
     (In millions)  

Federal Reserve Bank

   $ 471       $ 492   

Federal Home Loan Bank

     419         473   

Securities with carrying values of $15.4 billion and $12.4 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, were pledged to secure public funds, trust deposits and certain borrowing arrangements.

The cost and estimated fair value of securities available for sale and securities held to maturity at December 31, 2010, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.

 

     Amortized
Cost
     Estimated
Fair Value
 
     (In millions)  

Securities available for sale:

     

Due in one year or less

   $ 15       $ 16   

Due after one year through five years

     90         96   

Due after five years through ten years

     16         16   

Due after ten years

     30         34   

Mortgage-backed securities:

     

Residential agency

     21,735         21,845   

Residential non-agency

     20         22   

Commercial agency

     113         112   

Commercial non-agency

     103         100   

Equity securities

     1,047         1,048   
                 
   $ 23,169       $ 23,289   
                 

Securities held to maturity:

     

Due in one year or less

   $ 4       $ 4   

Due after one year through five years

     7         8   

Due after five years through ten years

     1         1   

Due after ten years

     —           —     

Mortgage-backed securities:

     

Residential agency

     12         13   
                 
   $ 24       $ 26   
                 

 

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The following tables present unrealized losses and estimated fair values of securities available for sale at December 31, 2010 and 2009. These securities are segregated between investments that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than twelve months and twelve months or more.

 

    Less Than
Twelve Months
    Twelve Months or More     Total  

December 31, 2010

  Estimated
Fair Value
    Gross
Unrealized
Losses
    Estimated
Fair Value
    Gross
Unrealized
Losses
    Estimated
Fair Value
    Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
    (In millions)  

Mortgage-backed securities:

           

Residential agency

  $ 11,023      $ (155   $ —        $ —        $ 11,023      $ (155

Commercial agency

    94        (3     —          —          94        (3

Commercial non-agency

    100        (3     —          —          100        (3

All other securities

    —          —          5        (2     5        (2
                                               
  $ 11,217      $ (161   $ 5      $ (2   $ 11,222      $ (163
                                               
    Less Than
Twelve Months
    Twelve Months or More     Total  

December 31, 2009

  Estimated
Fair Value
    Gross
Unrealized
Losses
    Estimated
Fair Value
    Gross
Unrealized
Losses
    Estimated
Fair Value
    Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
    (In millions)  

Mortgage-backed securities:

           

Residential agency

  $ 6,686      $ (61   $ —        $ —        $ 6,686      $ (61

All other securities

    —          —          8        (3     8        (3
                                               
  $ 6,686      $ (61   $ 8      $ (3   $ 6,694      $ (64
                                               

The gross unrealized loss on debt securities held to maturity was $0 million at both December 31, 2010 and 2009.

For the securities included in the tables above, management does not believe any individual unrealized loss, which was comprised of 292 securities and 151 securities at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, represented an other-than-temporary impairment as of those dates. The unrealized losses are related primarily to the impact of higher interest rates and their impact on mortgage-backed securities. The Company does not intend to sell, and it is not more likely than not, that the Company will be required to sell the securities before the recovery of their amortized cost basis, which may be maturity.

 

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The Company reviews its securities portfolio on a regular basis to determine if there are any conditions indicating that a security has other-than-temporary impairment. Factors considered in this determination include the length of time and the extent to which the market value has been below cost, the credit standing of the issuer, Regions’ intent to sell and whether it is more likely than not that the Company will have to sell the security before its market value recovers. For debt securities, activity related to the credit loss component of other-than-temporary impairment is recognized in earnings, and the portion of other-than-temporary impairment related to all other factors is recognized in other accumulated comprehensive income (loss). Additionally, the Company recognizes impairment of available for sale equity securities when the current market value is below the highest traded price within the past six months. The cost basis of the securities is adjusted to current fair value with the entire offset recorded in the statement of operations. For the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, activity related to the credit loss component for debt securities where a portion of the other-than-temporary impairment was recognized in other comprehensive income is as follows:

 

         2010              2009      
     (In millions)  

Balance, January 1

   $ —         $ —     

Additions for the credit loss component of other-than-temporary impairments of debt securities recognized in earnings where a portion of the impairment was charged to other comprehensive income (loss)

     —           47   

Reductions for the sale of securities where a portion of the impairment was previously charged to other comprehensive income

     —           (47
                 

Balance, December 31

   $ —         $ —     
                 

The following tables provide details of other-than-temporary impairment charges for the years ended December 31:

 

     2010      2009  
     (In millions)  

Non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities:

     

Gross charges(1)

   $ —         $ 238   

Non-credit charges to other comprehensive income (loss)

     —           (191
                 

Other-than-temporary impairment, net(2)

     —           47   

Municipal securities, gross charges(3)

     —           16   

Other debt securities, gross charges(3)

     1         —     

Equity securities, gross charges(3)

     1         12   
                 

Total gross charges(1)

   $ 2       $ 266   
                 

Total other-than-temporary impairment, net(2)

   $ 2       $ 75   
                 

 

(1) Includes credit portion reported in earnings and non-credit portion reported in other comprehensive income (loss).
(2) Net other-than-temporary impairment reported in earnings.
(3) All impairment for these securities is credit-related; therefore, gross charges equals the net amount reported in earnings.

The Company estimates the amount of losses attributable to credit using a third-party discounted cash flow model that compiles relevant details on the underlying loans’ borrower and collateral performance on a security-by-security basis. Assumptions including delinquencies, default rates, credit subordination support, prepayment rates, and loss severity based on the underlying collateral characteristics and year of origination are considered to estimate the future cash flows. Assumptions used can vary widely from loan to loan, and are influenced by such factors as interest rates, geography, borrower specific data and underlying collateral.

 

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Expected future cash flows are then calculated using a discount rate that management believes a market participant would consider in determining the fair value. Based on the results of the estimated future cash flows, the Company determines the amount of estimated losses related to credit and the remaining unrealized loss for which recovery is expected. Significant weighted-average assumptions specific to non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities for which other-than-temporary impairment was recorded during 2009 include a 22.9 percent collateral default rate projection, 9.2 percent credit subordination support and 14.2 percent delinquency rate. There was no other-than-temporary impairment related to credit loss where the remaining unrealized loss recovery was expected during 2010.

Proceeds from sale, gross gains and gross losses on sales of available for sale securities are shown in the table below:

 

     For the Years Ended December 31  
         2010         2009         2008      
     (In millions)  

Proceeds

   $ 10,340      $ 5,451      $ 2,142   

Securities gains

     424        187        95   

Securities losses

     (30     (118     (3
                        

Net securities gains

   $ 394      $ 69      $ 92   
                        

The following table details net gains (losses) for trading account securities for the years ended December 31:

 

     Total Net
Gains (Losses)
    Unrealized
Portion
 
     (In millions)  

2010

   $ 52      $ 30   

2009

     60        27   

2008

     (2     (43

In January 2011, Regions sold approximately $1.5 billion in securities, primarily agency mortgage-backed securities, and recognized a net pre-tax gain of approximately $52 million.

NOTE 4. LOANS

The loan portfolio, net of unearned income, at December 31 consisted of the following:

 

             2010                  2009          
     (In millions, net of unearned income)  

Commercial and industrial

   $ 22,540       $ 21,547   

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner-occupied

     12,046         12,054   

Commercial real estate construction—owner-occupied

     470         751   
                 

Total commercial

     35,056         34,352   

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

     13,621         16,109   

Commercial investor real estate construction

     2,287         5,591   
                 

Total investor real estate

     15,908         21,700   

Residential first mortgage

     14,898         15,632   

Home equity

     14,226         15,381   

Indirect and other consumer

     2,776         3,609   
                 

Total consumer

     31,900         34,622   
                 
   $ 82,864       $ 90,674   
                 

 

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The loan portfolio is diversified geographically, primarily within Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.

During 2009 and 2010, Regions considered its income-producing investor real estate (specifically loans secured by land, multi-family and retail) and home equity loans secured by second liens in Florida as concentrations due to continued economic pressures and downturns in the real estate market. Land totaled $1.6 billion at December 31, 2010 as compared to $3.0 billion at December 31, 2009. Multi-family and retail totaled $7.3 billion at December 31, 2010 as compared to $9.2 billion at December 31, 2009. The credit quality of the investor real estate portfolio is sensitive to risks associated with construction loans such as cost overruns, project completion risk, general contractor credit risk, environmental and other hazard risks, and market risks associated with the sale or rental of completed properties. The portion of the home equity portfolio where the collateral is comprised of second liens in Florida was $3.2 billion and $3.5 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

The following table includes certain details related to loans, net of unearned income for the years ended December 31:

 

     2010      2009  
     (In millions)  

Unearned income

   $ 1,042       $ 1,321   

Deferred loan costs, net

     14         56   

Unamortized discounts, net

     21         18   

The following tables include details regarding Regions’ investment in leveraged leases included within commercial and industrial loans for the years ended December 31:

 

     2010      2009  
     (In millions)  

Rentals receivable

   $ 1,040       $ 1,346   

Estimated residuals on leveraged leases

     315         339   

Unearned income on leveraged leases

     844         1,098   

 

     2010      2009      2008  
     (In millions)  

Pre-tax income from leveraged leases

   $ 67       $ 100       $ 67   

Income tax expense on income from leveraged leases

     53         72         62   

As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, Regions had funded $673 million and $626 million, respectively, in letters of credit backing Variable-Rate Demand Notes (“VRDNs”). There were no additional tenders outstanding that had not yet funded as of December 31, 2010. The remaining unfunded VRDN letters of credit portfolio at December 31, 2010 was approximately $1.2 billion (net of participations).

Of the balances at December 31, 2010 and 2009, approximately $2.3 billion and $3.5 billion, respectively, of first mortgage loans on one-to-four family dwellings, as well as $11.5 billion and $12.0 billion, respectively, of home equity loans held by Regions were pledged to secure borrowings from the FHLB (see Note 12 for further discussion). At December 31, 2010, approximately $9.8 billion of commercial and industrial loans, $15.9 billion of owner-occupied commercial real estate and investor real estate loans and $1.1 billion of other consumer loans held by Regions were pledged to the Federal Reserve Bank. At December 31, 2009, approximately $8.2 billion of commercial and industrial loans, $18.5 billion of owner-occupied commercial real estate and investor real estate loans and $1.9 billion of other consumer loans held by Regions were pledged to the Federal Reserve Bank.

Directors and executive officers of Regions and its principal subsidiaries, including the directors’ and officers’ families and affiliated companies, are loan and deposit customers and have other transactions with

 

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Regions in the ordinary course of business. Total loans to these persons (excluding loans which in the aggregate do not exceed $60,000 to any such person) at December 31, 2010 and 2009 were approximately $156 million and $266 million, respectively. These loans were made in the ordinary course of business and on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the same time for comparable transactions with other persons and involve no unusual risk of collectability.

NOTE 5. ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES

The allowance for credit losses represents management’s estimate of credit losses inherent in the loan and credit commitment portfolios as of year-end. The allowance for credit losses consists of two components: the allowance for loan and lease losses and the reserve for unfunded credit commitments. Management’s assessment of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses is based on a combination of both of these components. Regions determines its allowance for credit losses in accordance with applicable accounting literature as well as regulatory guidance related to receivables and contingencies. Binding unfunded credit commitments include items such as letters of credit, financial guarantees and binding unfunded loan commitments.

Allowance Process—Factors considered by management in determining the adequacy of the allowance include, but are not limited to: (1) detailed reviews of individual loans that result in risk ratings; (2) historical and current trends in gross and net loan charge-offs for the various classes of loans evaluated; (3) the Company’s policies relating to delinquent loans and charge-offs; (4) the level of the allowance in relation to total loans and to historical loss levels; (5) levels and trends in non-performing and past due loans; (6) collateral values of properties securing loans; (7) the composition of the loan portfolio, including unfunded credit commitments; (8) management’s analysis of current economic conditions; (9) migration of loans between risk rating categories; and (10) estimation of inherent credit losses in the portfolio. In support of collateral values, Regions obtains updated valuations for non-performing loans on at least an annual basis.

Credit Risk Management and the Special Assets Division (specializes in managing distressed credit exposure) are both involved in the credit risk management process to assess the accuracy of risk ratings, the quality of the portfolio and the estimation of inherent credit losses in the loan portfolio. This comprehensive process also assists in the prompt identification of problem credits. The Company has taken a number of measures to manage the portfolios and reduce risk, particularly in the more problematic portfolios. In addition, a strong Customer Assistance Program is in place which educates consumer loan customers about options and initiates early contact with customers to discuss solutions when a loan first becomes delinquent.

For loans that are not specifically reviewed, management uses information from its ongoing review processes to stratify the loan portfolio segments into pools sharing common risk characteristics. Loans that share common risk characteristics are assigned a portion of the allowance for credit losses based on the assessment process described above. Credit exposures are categorized by type and assigned estimated amounts of inherent loss based on several factors, including current and historical loss experience for each pool and management’s judgment of current economic conditions and their expected impact on credit performance. Adjustments to the allowance for credit losses calculated using a pooled approach are recorded through the provision for loan losses or non-interest expense, as applicable.

As a matter of business practice, Regions may require some form of credit support, such as a guarantee. Guarantees are legally binding and entered into simultaneously with the primary loan agreements. Regions underwrites the ability of each guarantor to perform under its guarantee in the same manner and to the same extent as would be required to underwrite the repayment plan of a direct obligor. This entails obtaining sufficient information on the guarantor, including financial and operating information, to sufficiently measure a guarantor’s ability to perform, under the guarantee. However, the benefit assigned to credit support within the calculation of the allowance for credit losses is not material to the consolidated financial statements.

Management considers the current level of allowance for credit losses adequate to absorb losses inherent in the loan portfolio and unfunded commitments. Management’s determination of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses, which is based on the factors and risk identification procedures previously discussed, requires the use of judgments and estimations that may change in the future. Changes in the factors used by management to

 

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determine the adequacy of the allowance or the availability of new information could cause the allowance for credit losses to be adjusted in future periods.

An analysis of the allowance for credit losses for the years ended December 31 follows:

 

     2010     2009     2008  
     (In millions)  

Allowance for loan losses:

      

Balance at beginning of year

   $ 3,114      $ 1,826      $ 1,321   

Allowance allocated to sold loans and loans transferred to loans held for sale

     —          —          (5

Provision for loan losses

     2,863        3,541        2,057   

Loan losses:

      

Charge-offs

     (2,912     (2,369     (1,639

Recoveries

     120        116        92   
                        

Net loan losses

     (2,792     (2,253     (1,547
                        

Balance at end of year

   $ 3,185      $ 3,114      $ 1,826   
                        

Reserve for unfunded credit commitments:

      

Balance at beginning of year

     74        74        58   

Provision for unfunded credit commitments

     (3     —          16   
                        

Balance at end of year

   $ 71      $ 74      $ 74   
                        

Total allowance for credit losses

   $ 3,256      $ 3,188      $ 1,900   
                        

The following table presents a detail of the allowance for credit losses and the loan portfolio by portfolio segment as of December 31, 2010. The total allowance for credit losses is then disaggregated to show the amounts derived through specific evaluation and the amounts calculated through collective evaluation. The loan portfolio balances are also disaggregated. The allowance for credit losses related to individually evaluated loans includes reserves for non-accrual loans and leases, as well as TDRs, equal to or greater than $2.5 million. The allowance for credit losses related to collectively evaluated loans includes reserves for pools of loans with common risk characteristics.

 

     As of December 31, 2010  
     Commercial      Investor Real
Estate
     Consumer      Total  
     (In millions)  

Allowance for loan losses

   $ 1,055       $ 1,370       $ 760       $ 3,185   

Binding unfunded commitments

     21         6         23         50   

Standby letters of credit

     11         10         —           21   
                                   

Allowance for credit losses

   $ 1,087       $ 1,386       $ 783       $ 3,256   
                                   

Portion of allowance ending balance:

           

Individually evaluated for impairment

   $ 90       $ 312       $ 2       $ 404   
                                   

Collectively evaluated for impairment

   $ 997       $ 1,074       $ 781       $ 2,852   
                                   

Portion of loan portfolio ending balance:

           

Individually evaluated for impairment

   $ 482       $ 1,367       $ 13       $ 1,862   

Collectively evaluated for impairment

     34,574         14,541         31,887         81,002   
                                   

Total loans evaluated for impairment

   $ 35,056       $ 15,908       $ 31,900       $ 82,864   
                                   

Regions employs a credit risk management process with defined policies, accountability and routine reporting to manage credit risk in the loan portfolio segments. Credit risk management is guided by credit policies that provide for a consistent and prudent approach to underwriting and approvals of credits. Within the Credit Policy department, procedures exist that elevate the approval requirements as credits become larger and more complex. Generally, consumer credits are centrally underwritten based on custom credit matrices and

 

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policies that are modified as appropriate. Larger commercial and investor real estate transactions are individually underwritten, risk-rated, approved and monitored.

Responsibility and accountability for adherence to underwriting policies and accurate risk ratings lies in the lines of business. For the consumer portfolio segment, the risk management process focuses on managing customers who become delinquent in their payments and managing performance of the credit scorecards, which are periodically adjusted based on actual credit performance. For the commercial and investor real estate portfolio segments, the risk management process focuses on underwriting new business and, on an ongoing basis, monitoring the credit of the portfolios, including a complete review of the borrower semi-annually or more frequently as needed. To ensure problem commercial and investor real estate credits are identified on a timely basis, several specific portfolio reviews occur each quarter to assess the larger adversely rated credits for proper risk rating and accrual status and, if necessary, to ensure such individual credits are transferred to Regions’ Special Assets Division.

There are also separate and independent commercial and investor real estate credit risk management and consumer credit risk management organizational groups. These organizational units partner with the business line to assist in the processes described above, including the review and approval of new business and ongoing assessments of existing loans in the portfolio. Independent commercial, investor real estate, and consumer credit risk management provides for more accurate risk ratings and the timely identification of problem credits, as well as oversight for the Chief Credit Officer on conditions and trends in the credit portfolios.

Credit quality and trends in the loan portfolio segments are measured and monitored regularly and detailed reports, by product, business unit and geography, are reviewed by line of business personnel and the Chief Credit Officer. The Chief Credit Officer reviews summaries of these credit reports with executive management and the Board of Directors. Finally, the Credit Review department provides ongoing independent oversight of the credit portfolios to ensure policies are followed, credits are properly risk-rated and that key credit control processes are functioning as intended.

The following describe the risk characteristics relevant to each of the portfolio segments.

Commercial —The commercial loan portfolio segment includes commercial and industrial, representing loans to commercial customers for use in normal business operations to finance working capital needs, equipment purchases or other expansion projects. Commercial also includes owner-occupied commercial real estate loans to operating businesses, which are loans for long-term financing of land and buildings, and are repaid by cash flow generated by business operations. Owner-occupied construction loans are made to commercial businesses for the development of land or construction of a building where the repayment is derived from revenues generated from the business of the borrower. Collection risk in this portfolio is driven by the creditworthiness of underlying borrowers, particularly cash flow from customers’ business operations.

Investor Real Estate—Loans for real estate development are repaid through cash flow related to the operation, sale or refinance of the property. This portfolio segment includes extensions of credit to real estate developers or investors where repayment is dependent on the sale of real estate or income generated from the real estate collateral. A portion of Regions’ investor real estate portfolio segment is comprised of loans secured by residential product types (land, single-family and condominium loans) within Regions’ markets. Additionally, these loans are made to finance income-producing properties such as apartment buildings, office and industrial buildings, and retail shopping centers. Loans in this portfolio segment are particularly sensitive to valuation of real estate.

Consumer—The consumer loan portfolio segment includes residential first mortgage, home equity, and indirect and other consumer loans. Residential first mortgage loans represent loans to consumers to finance a residence. These loans are typically financed over a 15 to 30 year term and, in most cases, are extended to borrowers to finance their primary residence. Home equity lending includes both home equity loans and lines of credit. This type of lending, which is secured by a first or second mortgage on the borrower’s residence, allows

 

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customers to borrow against the equity in their home. Real estate market values as of the time the loan or line is secured directly affect the amount of credit extended and, in addition, changes in these values impact the depth of potential losses. Indirect lending, which is lending initiated through third-party business partners, is largely comprised of loans made through automotive dealerships. Other consumer loans include direct consumer installment loans, overdrafts and other revolving credit, and educational loans. Loans in this portfolio segment are sensitive to unemployment and other key consumer economic measures.

The following table presents credit quality indicators for the loan portfolio segments and classes, excluding loans held for sale. Commercial and investor real estate loan classes are detailed by categories related to underlying credit quality and probability of default. These categories are utilized to develop the associated allowance for credit losses using historical losses adjusted for current economic conditions and are defined as follows:

 

   

Pass—includes obligations where the probability of default is considered low;

 

   

Other Loans Especially Mentioned (“OLEM”)—includes obligations that have potential weakness which may, if not reversed or corrected, weaken the credit or inadequately protect the Company’s position at some future date. Obligations in this category may also be subject to economic or market conditions which may, in the future, have an adverse affect on debt service ability;

 

   

Substandard Accrual—includes obligations that exhibit a well-defined weakness which presently jeopardizes debt repayment, even though they are currently performing. These obligations are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Company may incur a loss in the future if these weaknesses are not corrected;

 

   

Non-accrual—includes obligations where management has determined that full payment of principal and interest is in doubt.

Classes in the consumer portfolio segment are disaggregated by accrual status. Consumer loans are charged down to estimated value and placed on non-accrual status based on period of delinquency, unless the loan is well-secured and in process of collection. The associated allowance for credit losses is generally based on historical losses of the various classes adjusted for current economic conditions.

 

     December 31, 2010  
     Pass      OLEM      Substandard
Accrual
     Non-accrual      Total  
     (In millions)  

Commercial and industrial

   $ 20,764       $ 517       $ 792       $ 467       $ 22,540   

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner occupied

     10,344         283         813         606         12,046   

Commercial real estate construction—owner occupied

     393         25         23         29         470   
                                            

Total commercial

   $ 31,501       $ 825       $ 1,628       $ 1,102       $ 35,056   
                                            

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

     8,755         1,300         2,301         1,265         13,621   

Commercial investor real estate construction

     904         342         589         452         2,287   
                                            

Total investor real estate

   $ 9,659       $ 1,642       $ 2,890       $ 1,717       $ 15,908   
                                            

 

     Accrual      Non-accrual      Total  
     (In millions)  

Residential first mortgage

   $ 14,613       $ 285       $ 14,898   

Home equity

     14,170         56         14,226   

Indirect and other consumer

     2,776         —           2,776   
                          

Total consumer

   $ 31,559       $ 341       $ 31,900   
                          
         $ 82,864   
              

 

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In order to provide context for the credit quality information, the following table presents corresponding information as of December 31, 2009. Criticized loans, which include OLEM, substandard accrual, and non-accrual loans, peaked at December 31, 2009 and have decreased in each quarter of 2010 as the economy has improved.

 

    December 31, 2009  
    Pass     OLEM     Substandard
Accrual
    Non-accrual     Total  
    (In millions)  

Commercial and industrial

  $ 19,329      $ 793      $ 998      $ 427      $ 21,547   

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner occupied

    10,569        322        603        560        12,054   

Commercial real estate construction—owner occupied

    640        28        33        50        751   
                                       

Total commercial

  $ 30,538      $ 1,143      $ 1,634      $ 1,037      $ 34,352   
                                       

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

    10,098        1,866        2,942        1,203        16,109   

Commercial investor real estate construction

    2,444        894        1,186        1,067        5,591   
                                       

Total investor real estate

  $ 12,542      $ 2,760      $ 4,128      $ 2,270      $ 21,700   
                                       

 

    Accrual     Non-accrual     Total  
          (In millions)        

Residential first mortgage

  $ 15,452      $ 180      $ 15,632   

Home equity

    15,380        1        15,381   

Indirect and other consumer

    3,609        —          3,609   
                       

Total consumer

  $ 34,441      $ 181      $ 34,622   
                       
      $ 90,674   
           

The following table includes an aging analysis of days past due (DPD) for each portfolio class as of December 31, 2010:

 

    December 31, 2010  
    Accrual     Total Accrual     Non-accrual     Total  
    30-59 DPD     60-89 DPD     90+ DPD     Total 30+ DPD                    
    (In millions)  

Commercial and industrial

  $ 60      $ 43      $ 9      $ 112      $ 22,073      $ 467      $ 22,540   

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner occupied

    47        54        6        107        11,440        606        12,046   

Commercial real estate construction—owner occupied

    3        —          1        4        441        29        470   
                                                       

Total commercial

    110        97        16        223        33,954        1,102        35,056   
                                                       

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

    120        91        5        216        12,356        1,265        13,621   

Commercial investor real estate construction

    30        12        1        43        1,835        452        2,287   
                                                       

Total investor real estate

    150        103        6        259        14,191        1,717        15,908   
                                                       

Residential first mortgage

    185        118        359        662        14,613        285        14,898   

Home equity

    146        78        198        422        14,170        56        14,226   

Indirect and other consumer

    51        14        6        71        2,776        —          2,776   
                                                       

Total consumer

    382        210        563        1,155        31,559        341        31,900   
                                                       
  $ 642      $ 410      $ 585      $ 1,637      $ 79,704      $ 3,160      $ 82,864   
                                                       

 

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The following table presents details related to the Company’s impaired loans. Loans deemed to be impaired include non-accrual commercial and investor real estate loans, excluding leasing, and all TDRs (including accruing commercial, investor real estate, and consumer TDRs, excluding leasing). Loans which have been fully charged-off do not appear in the table below. The related allowance represents the following components which correspond to impaired loans:

 

   

Individually evaluated impaired loans (non-accrual commercial and investor real estate loans equal to or greater than $2.5 million),

 

   

Collectively evaluated impaired loans (non-accrual commercial and investor real estate loans less than $2.5 million, which are evaluated based on pools of loans with similar risk characteristics),

 

   

Accruing and non-accruing TDRs equal to or greater than $2.5 million are individually evaluated like any other impaired loan over the quantitative scope. Accruing and non-accruing TDRs less than $2.5 million are included with pools of loans with similar risk characteristics and evaluated collectively.

 

     Impaired Loans  
     As of December 31, 2010  
     Legal
Balance (1)
     Charge-offs
and
Payments
Applied (2)
     Book
Value (3)
     Related
Allowance

for
Loan Losses
     Coverage% (4)  
     (Dollars in millions)  

Commercial and industrial

   $ 545       $ 124       $ 421       $ 102         41.5

Commercial real estate mortgage—owner occupied

     746         96         650         167         35.3   

Commercial real estate construction—owner occupied

     47         16         31         10         55.3   
                                            

Total commercial

     1,338         236         1,102         279         38.5   
                                            

Commercial investor real estate mortgage

     1,693         273         1,420         319         35.0   

Commercial investor real estate construction

     638         150         488         154         47.6   
                                            

Total investor real estate

     2,331         423         1,908         473         38.4   
                                            

Residential first mortgage

     1,113         60         1,053         126         16.7   

Home equity

     378         13         365         46         15.6   

Indirect and other consumer

     67         —           67         1         1.5   
                                            

Total consumer

     1,558         73         1,485         173         15.8   
                                            

Total impaired loans

   $ 5,227       $ 732       $ 4,495       $ 925         31.7
                                            

 

(1) Legal balance represents the contractual obligation due from the customer and includes the net book value plus charge-offs and payments applied.
(2) Charge-offs and payments applied represents cumulative partial charge-offs taken, as well as interest payments received that have been applied against the outstanding principal balance.
(3) Book value represents the legal balance less charge-offs and payments applied; it is shown before any allowance for loan losses.
(4) Coverage percent represents charge-offs and payments applied plus the related allowance as a percent of the legal balance.

A significant majority of residential first mortgage, home equity, and indirect and other consumer loans in the table above are considered impaired due to their status as a TDR. Over 80 percent of consumer TDRs were accruing at December 31, 2010.

The recorded investment in impaired loans was $5.0 billion at December 31, 2009. The allowance allocated to impaired loans totaled $662 million at December 31, 2009. The average amount of impaired loans was $4.8 billion during 2010, $3.6 billion during 2009 and $1.3 billion during 2008. No material amount of interest income was recognized on impaired loans for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 or 2008.

 

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In addition to the impaired loans discussed in the preceding paragraph and detailed in the table above, there were approximately $304 million and $317 million in non-performing loans classified as held for sale at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The loans are larger balance credits, primarily investor real estate, where management does not have the intent to hold these loans for the foreseeable future. The loans are carried at an amount approximating a price which will be recoverable through the loan sale market.

At December 31, 2010, non-accrual loans including loans held for sale totaled $3.5 billion, compared to $3.8 billion at December 31, 2009. The amount of interest income recognized in 2010, 2009 and 2008 on loans prior to migrating to non-accrual status was approximately $47 million, $55 million and $41 million, respectively. If these loans had been current in accordance with their original terms, approximately $165 million, $160 million and $116 million, respectively, would have been recognized on these loans in 2010, 2009 and 2008. At December 31, 2010 and 2009, Regions had loans contractually past due 90 days or more and still accruing of approximately $585 million and $688 million, respectively.

NOTE 6. SERVICING OF FINANCIAL ASSETS

Effective January 1, 2009, the Company made an election to prospectively change the policy for accounting for residential mortgage servicing rights from the amortization method to the fair value measurement method (see Note 1). The fair value of mortgage servicing rights is calculated using various assumptions including future cash flows, market discount rates, expected prepayment rates, servicing costs and other factors. A significant change in prepayments of mortgages in the servicing portfolio could result in significant changes in the valuation adjustments, thus creating potential volatility in the carrying amount of mortgage servicing rights.

The table below presents an analysis of mortgage servicing rights for the years ended December 31, under the fair value measurement method:

 

         2010             2009      
     (In millions)  

Carrying value, beginning of period

   $ 247      $ 161   

Additions

     81        101   

Increase (decrease) in fair value:

    

Due to change in valuation inputs or assumptions

     (32     19   

Other changes(1)

     (29     (34
                

Carrying value, end of period

   $ 267      $ 247   
                

 

(1) Represents economic amortization associated with borrower repayments.

Beginning in the third quarter of 2009, Regions adopted an option-adjusted spread (“OAS”) valuation approach. The OAS represents the additional spread over the swap rate that is required in order for the asset’s discounted cash flows to equal its market price. The change to OAS valuation did not materially impact the fair value of the mortgage servicing rights. Data and assumptions used in the fair value calculation related to residential mortgage servicing rights (excluding related derivative instruments) as well as the valuation’s sensitivity to rate fluctuations, as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 are as follows (dollars in millions):

 

     2010     2009  

Unpaid principal balance

   $ 25,375      $ 23,309   

Weighted-average prepayment speed (CPR; percentage)

     13.0     16.1

Estimated impact on fair value of a 10% increase

   $ (14   $ (11

Estimated impact on fair value of a 20% increase

   $ (27   $ (23

Option-adjusted spread (basis points)

     657        386   

Estimated impact on fair value of a 10% increase

   $ (6   $ (3

Estimated impact on fair value of a 20% increase

   $ (12   $ (6

Weighted-average coupon interest rate

     5.47     5.79

Weighted-average remaining maturity (months)

     285        288   

Weighted-average servicing fee (basis points)

     28.8        28.8   

 

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The sensitivity calculations above are hypothetical and should not be considered to be predictive of future performance. Changes in fair value based on adverse changes in assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in assumption to the change in fair value may not be linear. Also, the effect of an adverse variation in a particular assumption on the fair value of the mortgage servicing rights is calculated without changing any other assumption, while in reality changes in one factor may result in changes in another which may either magnify or counteract the effect of the change. The derivative instruments utilized by Regions would serve to reduce the estimated impacts to fair value included in the table above.

Regions uses various derivative instruments and trading securities to mitigate the effect of changes in the fair value of its mortgage servicing rights in the statements of operations. The table below presents the impact on the statements of operations associated with changes in mortgage servicing rights and related derivative and/or trading securities for the years ended December 31:

 

         2010              2009      
     (In millions)  

Net interest income

   $ 3       $ 20   

Brokerage income

     4         4   

Mortgage income

     16         13   
                 
   $ 23       $ 37   
                 

During 2010, 2009 and 2008, Regions recognized $81 million, $70 million and $86 million, respectively, in contractually specified servicing fees, late fees and other ancillary income resulting from the servicing of mortgage loans.

Regions’ recourse liability, which primarily relates to residential mortgage loans, totaled $32 million and $30 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2010, $18 million of provision expense (included in other non-interest expense) was recorded and $16 million of losses were charged-off against the reserve. The recourse liability represents Regions’ estimated credit losses on contingent repurchases of loans or make-whole payments related to residential mortgage loans previously sold. This recourse primarily arises due to defects in the underwriting of the sold loans.

NOTE 7. PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

A summary of premises and equipment at December 31 is as follows:

 

         2010             2009      
     (In millions)  

Land and land improvements

   $ 509      $ 500   

Premises

     1,722        1,696   

Furniture and equipment

     1,115        1,143   

Software

     240        180   

Leasehold improvements

     416        373   

Construction in progress

     173        188   
                
     4,175        4,080   

Accumulated depreciation and amortization

     (1,606     (1,412
                
   $ 2,569      $ 2,668   
                

NOTE 8. INTANGIBLE ASSETS

GOODWILL

Goodwill allocated to each reportable segment as of December 31 is presented as follows:

 

         2010              2009      
     (In millions)  

Banking/Treasury

   $ 4,691       $ 4,691   

Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust

     745         745   

Insurance

     125         121   
                 

Balance at end of year

   $ 5,561       $ 5,557   
                 

 

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A summary of goodwill activity at December 31 is presented as follows:

 

         2010              2009      
     (In millions)  

Balance at beginning of year

   $ 5,557       $ 5,548   

Acquisitions of other businesses

     4         9   

Impairment

     —           —     
                 

Balance at end of year

   $ 5,561       $ 5,557   
                 

As stated in Note 1, Regions evaluates each reporting unit’s goodwill for impairment on an annual basis in the fourth quarter, or more often if events or circumstances indicate that there may be impairment. Regions tested goodwill for impairment periodically during 2010, 2009 and 2008 and recorded a $6.0 billion impairment charge within the Banking/Treasury unit during the fourth quarter of 2008. Due to the deteriorating economic environment in 2010 and 2009, Regions performed interim impairment tests in each quarter of 2010 and during the second and third quarters of 2009, in addition to the 2010 and 2009 annual tests which occur during the fourth quarter. The results of these interim and annual tests indicated that goodwill was not impaired as of these test dates.

In the fourth quarter of 2010, Regions performed the Step One analysis for all three reporting units as part of its annual impairment test, which indicated potential impairment for the Banking/Treasury reporting unit. Based on the results of the Step Two analysis performed, Regions concluded the Banking/Treasury reporting unit’s goodwill was not impaired. The Step One analysis did not indicate that goodwill was impaired for the Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust and Insurance reporting units as of December 31, 2010.

Below is a table of assumptions used in estimating the fair value of each reporting unit for the annual tests in 2010 and 2009, respectively. The tables include the discount rate used in the income approach and the market multiplier and implied control premium used in the market approaches applied to all reporting units for each reporting date.

 

As of Fourth Quarter 2010

   Banking/
Treasury
    Investment Banking/
Brokerage/Trust
    Insurance  

Discount rate used in income approach

     15     14     11

Public company method market multiplier(1)

     1.0     1.6     17.3

Transaction method market multiplier(2)

     1.3     2.1     n/a   

 

(1) For the Banking/Treasury and Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust reporting units, these multipliers are applied to tangible book value. For the Insurance reporting unit, this multiplier is applied to the last twelve months of net income. In addition to the multipliers, a 30 percent control premium is assumed for each reporting unit.
(2) For the Banking/Treasury and Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust reporting units, these multipliers are applied to tangible book value.

 

As of Fourth Quarter 2009

   Banking/
Treasury
    Investment Banking/
Brokerage/Trust
    Insurance  

Discount rate used in income approach

     18     13     12

Public company method market multiplier(1)

     0.7     1.6     9.1

Transaction method market multiplier(2)

     0.9     2.2     n/a   

 

(1) For the Banking/Treasury and Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust reporting units, these multipliers are applied to tangible book value. For the Insurance reporting unit, this multiplier is applied to the last twelve months of earnings before interest, taxes and depreciation, respectively. In addition to the multipliers, a 30 percent control premium is assumed for each reporting unit.
(2) For the Banking/Treasury and Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust reporting units, these multipliers are applied to tangible book value.

 

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In the fourth quarter of 2010, Regions reduced the company-specific component of its discount rate to reflect several positive factors that occurred during the period. Specifically, the Company earned a profit and experienced lower gross inflows of nonperforming loans than in the third quarter. The Company also completed its three-year strategic plan, which reflected improving credit trends and included additional clarity around future cash flows that were driven by a proposed rule issued by the Federal Reserve governing the rates charged on debit card income. The Company also considered the announcements in the fourth quarter of 2010 and January of 2011 of pending non-distressed, orderly sales of financial institutions of comparable size and/or footprint to Regions. Additionally, the Basel Committee finalized its capital framework, which provided further clarity of future equity requirements that impact the projections of future cash flows. In the judgment of management, these factors outweighed the downgrades of Regions’ debt to below investment grade during the fourth quarter of 2010, as well as rule changes which are expected to increase FDIC insurance premiums.

The valuation methodologies of certain material financial assets and liabilities are discussed in Note 21.

In the fourth quarter of 2008, Regions performed the Step One analysis for all three reporting units. Regions’ annual test indicated potential impairment for the Banking/Treasury reporting unit. Therefore, Step Two was performed and resulted in the Company recording a goodwill impairment charge of $6.0 billion in the Banking/Treasury reporting unit. The primary cause of the goodwill impairment in the Banking/Treasury reporting unit was the continued and significant decline in the estimated fair value of the unit. This was evidenced by rapid deterioration in credit costs, continued compression of the net interest margin, costs of the preferred stock issuance to the U.S. Treasury and continued declines in the Company’s overall market capitalization during the fourth quarter of 2008. The Step One analysis did not indicate that goodwill was impaired for the Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust and Insurance reporting units as of December 31, 2008.

The $6.0 billion impairment charge discussed above was Regions’ first recorded goodwill impairment. There has been no impairment recorded subsequent to this time.

OTHER INTANGIBLES

A summary of core deposit intangible assets at December 31 is presented as follows:

 

         2010             2009      
     (In millions)  

Balance at beginning of year, net

   $ 461      $ 583   

Accumulated amortization, beginning of year

     (550     (428

Amortization

     (107     (122
                

Accumulated amortization, end of year

     (657     (550
                

Balance at end of year, net

   $ 354      $ 461   
                

Regions’ core deposit intangible assets are being amortized on an accelerated basis over a ten-year period.

Identifiable intangible assets other than goodwill are reviewed at least annually, usually in the fourth quarter, for events or circumstances that could impact the recoverability of the intangible asset. These events could include loss of core deposits, increased competition or adverse changes in the economy. To the extent other identifiable intangible assets are deemed unrecoverable, impairment losses are recorded in other non-interest expense to reduce the carrying amount.

A summary of Regions’ other intangible assets as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 is presented as follows:

 

         2010              2009      
     (In millions)  

Net Book Value

   $ 31       $ 42   

Current Year Amortization

     13         16   

 

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These other intangible assets resulted from customer relationships and employment agreements related to various acquisitions and are being amortized primarily on an accelerated basis over a period ranging from two to twelve years. In 2010 and 2009, Regions’ amortization of other intangibles was $12.8 million and $15.6 million, respectively. Regions noted no indicators of impairment for all other identifiable intangible assets.

The aggregate amount of amortization expense for core deposit intangible assets and other intangible assets is estimated as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     (In millions)  

2011

   $ 105   

2012

     88   

2013

     74   

2014

     61   

2015

     45   

NOTE 9. FORECLOSED PROPERTIES

Other real estate and certain other assets acquired in foreclosure are carried at the lower of the recorded investment in the loan or fair value less estimated costs to sell the property.

An analysis of foreclosed properties for the years ended December 31 follows:

 

     2010     2009  
     (In millions)  

Balance at beginning of year

   $ 607      $ 243   

Transfer from loans

     649        890   

Foreclosed property sold

     (565     (361

Writedowns and partial liquidations

     (237     (165
                
     (153     364   
                

Balance at end of year

   $ 454      $ 607   
                

NOTE 10. DEPOSITS

The following schedule presents a detail of interest-bearing deposits at December 31:

 

     2010      2009  
     (In millions)  

Savings accounts

   $ 4,668       $ 4,073   

Interest-bearing transaction accounts

     13,423         15,791   

Money market accounts

     27,420         23,291   

Money market accounts—foreign

     569         766   

Time deposits

     22,784         31,468   
                 

Customer deposits

     68,864         75,389   

Treasury time deposits

     17         87   
                 
   $ 68,881       $ 75,476   
                 

The aggregate amount of time deposits of $100,000 or more, including certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more, was $8.9 billion and $12.6 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

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At December 31, 2010, the aggregate amount of maturities of all time deposits (deposits with stated maturities, consisting primarily of certificates of deposit and IRAs) were as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     (In millions)  

2011

   $ 14,307   

2012

     4,466   

2013

     3,216   

2014

     225   

2015

     556   

Thereafter

     31   
        
   $ 22,801   
        

NOTE 11. SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS

Following is a summary of short-term borrowings at December 31:

 

     2010      2009  
     (In millions)  

Company funding sources:

     

Federal funds purchased

   $ 19       $ 30   

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

     763         448   

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

     500         1,000   

Treasury, tax and loan notes

     118         7   

Other short-term borrowings

     95         —     
                 
     1,495         1,485   
                 

Customer-related borrowings:

     

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

     1,934         1,415   

Brokerage customer liabilities

     324         424   

Short-sale liability

     174         266   

Customer collateral

     10         78   
                 
     2,442         2,183   
                 
   $ 3,937       $ 3,668   
                 

COMPANY FUNDING SOURCES

The levels of federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase can fluctuate significantly on a day-to-day basis, depending on funding needs and which sources are used to satisfy those needs. All such arrangements are considered typical of the banking and brokerage industries and are accounted for as borrowings. Federal funds purchased had weighted-average maturities of 3 days and 4 days at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Weighted-average rates paid during 2010 and 2009 were 0.1% and 0.2%, respectively. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase had weighted-average maturities of 27 days and 13 days at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Weighted-average rates paid during 2010 and 2009 were 0.2% and 0.9%, respectively.

As another source of funding, the Company utilized short-term borrowings through the issuance of FHLB advances. FHLB borrowings are used to satisfy short-term and long-term borrowing needs and can also fluctuate between periods. See Note 12 for further discussion of Regions’ borrowing capacity with the FHLB.

Treasury, tax and loan notes consist of borrowings from the Federal Reserve Bank. At December 31, 2010, Regions could borrow a maximum amount of approximately $16.6 billion from the Federal Reserve Bank Discount Window. See Note 4 for loans pledged to the Federal Reserve Bank at December 31, 2010 and 2009.

 

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Other short-term borrowings are related to Morgan Keegan and include certain lines of credit that Morgan Keegan maintains with unaffiliated banks. The lines of credit provided for maximum borrowings of $640 million and $585 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

CUSTOMER-RELATED BORROWINGS

Repurchase agreements are also offered as commercial banking products as short-term investment opportunities for customers. The level of these borrowings can fluctuate significantly on a day-to-day basis.

Regions, through Morgan Keegan, maintains two types of liabilities for its brokerage customers that are classified as short-term borrowings since Morgan Keegan pays its customers interest related to these liabilities. The brokerage customer position liability represents liquid funds in the customers’ brokerage accounts. The short-sale liability represents Regions’ trading obligations to deliver to customers securities at a predetermined date and price. The balances of these liabilities fluctuate frequently based on customer activity.

Customer collateral includes cash collateral posted by swap customers of Morgan Keegan.

NOTE 12. LONG-TERM BORROWINGS

Long-term borrowings at December 31 consist of the following:

 

     2010      2009  
     (In millions)  

Federal Home Loan Bank structured advances

   $ 200       $ 2,884   

Other Federal Home Loan Bank advances

     3,515         4,520   

6.375% subordinated notes due May 2012

     599         598   

7.75% subordinated notes due March 2011

     502         512   

7.00% subordinated notes due March 2011

     500         500   

7.375% subordinated notes due December 2037

     300         300   

6.75% subordinated debentures due November 2025

     162         163   

7.75% subordinated notes due September 2024

     100         100   

7.50% subordinated notes due May 2018 (Regions Bank)

     750         750   

6.45% subordinated notes due June 2037 (Regions Bank)

     497         497   

4.85% subordinated notes due April 2013 (Regions Bank)

     494         491   

5.20% subordinated notes due April 2015 (Regions Bank)

     347         346   

3.25% senior bank notes due December 2011

     2,000         2,001   

2.75% senior bank notes due December 2010

     —           999   

LIBOR floating rate senior bank notes due June 2010

     —           250   

LIBOR floating rate senior bank notes due December 2010

     —           500   

7.75% senior notes due November 2014

     692         690   

4.375% senior notes due December 2010

     —           497   

5.75% senior notes due June 2015

     495         —     

4.875% senior notes due April 2013

     249         —     

LIBOR floating rate senior notes due June 2012

     350         350   

6.625% junior subordinated notes due May 2047

     498         498   

8.875% junior subordinated notes due June 2048

     345         345   

Other long-term debt

     383         454   

Valuation adjustments on hedged long-term debt

     212         219   
                 
   $ 13,190       $ 18,464   
                 

Long-term FHLB structured advances have stated maturities during 2011 but are convertible quarterly at the option of the FHLB. The convertible feature provides that after a specified date in the future, the advances will

 

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remain at a fixed rate, or Regions will have the option to either pay off the advance or convert from a fixed rate to a variable rate based on the LIBOR index. The FHLB structured advances had a weighted-average interest rate of 2.5%, 3.1% and 5.4% at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008. Other FHLB advances at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 had a weighted-average interest rate of 1.0%, 3.4% and 3.8%, respectively, with maturities of one to nineteen years, respectively. FHLB borrowings are contingent upon the amount of collateral pledged to the FHLB. Regions has pledged certain residential first mortgage loans on one-to-four family dwellings and home equity lines of credit as collateral for the FHLB advances outstanding. See Note 4 for loans pledged to the FHLB at December 31, 2010 and 2009. Additionally, membership in the FHLB requires an institution to hold FHLB stock, and Regions held $419 million at December 31, 2010 and $473 million at December 31, 2009. During 2010, Regions prepaid approximately $2 billion of FHLB advances, realizing a $108 million pre-tax loss on early extinguishment. These extinguishments were part of the company’s asset/liability management process. Regions’ borrowing availability with the FHLB as of December 31, 2010, based on assets available for collateral at that date, was $1.2 billion.

As of December 31, 2010, Regions had ten issuances of subordinated notes totaling $4.3 billion, with stated interest rates ranging from 4.85% to 7.75%. All issuances of these notes are, by definition, subordinated and subject in right of payment of both principal and interest to the prior payment in full of all senior indebtedness of the Company, which is generally defined as all indebtedness and other obligations of the Company to its creditors, except subordinated indebtedness. Payment of the principal of the notes may be accelerated only in the case of certain events involving bankruptcy, insolvency proceedings or reorganization of the Company. The subordinated notes described above qualify as Tier 2 capital under Federal Reserve guidelines. None of the subordinated notes are redeemable prior to maturity.

As of December 31, 2010, Regions had senior notes totaling $3.8 billion. In October 2008, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) announced a new program—the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (“TLGP”)—to strengthen confidence and encourage liquidity in the banking system by guaranteeing newly issued senior unsecured debt of banks, thrifts and certain holding companies, and by providing full coverage of non-interest bearing deposit transaction accounts, regardless of dollar amount. Under the original rules, certain newly issued senior unsecured debt with maturities greater than 30 days issued on or before June 30, 2009, would be backed by the “full faith and credit” of the U.S. government through June 30, 2012. The FDIC’s payment obligation under the guarantee for eligible senior unsecured debt would be triggered by a payment default. The guarantee is limited to 125 percent of senior unsecured debt as of September 30, 2008 that was scheduled to mature before June 30, 2009. This includes federal funds purchased, promissory notes, commercial paper and certain types of inter-bank funding. Participants were charged a 50-100 basis point fee to protect their new debt issues which varies depending on the maturity date. Additionally, participants could elect to pay a fee of 37.5 basis points on their TLGP capacity for the right to issue non-guaranteed debt during the program. This fee was non-refundable and used to offset the guarantee fee for issuances until exhausted. In December 2008, Regions Bank completed an offering of $3.75 billion of qualifying senior bank notes covered by the TLGP. Payment of principal and interest on the notes will be guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the United States pursuant to the TLGP. At December 31, 2010, approximately $2 billion of this offering remained outstanding, and will mature in December of 2011. In June 2010 and December 2010, approximately $250 million and $2 billion of senior notes, respectively, matured. Also during 2010, Regions issued $250 million (par value) of 4.875% senior notes due April 2013 and $500 million (par value) of 5.75% senior notes due June 2015.

In April 2008, Regions issued $345 million of junior subordinated notes (“JSNs”) bearing an initial fixed interest rate of 8.875%. These JSNs have a scheduled maturity of June 15, 2048 and a final maturity of June 15, 2078, and are redeemable at Regions’ option on or after June 15, 2013. JSNs were issued to affiliated trusts, which contemporaneously issued trust preferred securities which Regions guaranteed.

Other long-term debt at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 had weighted-average interest rates of 2.6%, 2.9% and 2.9%, respectively, and a weighted-average maturity of 5.1 years at December 31, 2010. Regions has $55 million included in other long-term debt in connection with a seller-lessee transaction with continuing

 

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involvement. Approximately $200 million related to term repurchase agreements is also included in other long-term debt. These arrangements are considered typical of the banking industry and are accounted for as borrowings.

Regions uses derivative instruments, primarily interest rate swaps, to manage interest rate risk by converting a portion of its fixed-rate debt to a variable-rate. The effective rate adjustments related to these hedges are included in interest expense on long-term borrowings. The weighted-average interest rate on total long-term debt, including the effect of derivative instruments, was 3.2%, 3.6% and 4.6% for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Further discussion of derivative instruments is included in Note 20.

The aggregate amount of contractual maturities of all long-term debt in each of the next five years and thereafter is as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     (In millions)  

2011

   $ 6,004   

2012

     1,852   

2013

     745   

2014

     695   

2015

     843   

Thereafter

     3,051   
        
   $ 13,190   
        

In February 2010, Regions filed a shelf registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. This shelf registration does not have a capacity limit and can be utilized by Regions to issue various debt and equity securities. The registration statement will expire in February 2013.

Regions’ Bank Note program allows Regions Bank to issue up to $20 billion aggregate principal amount of bank notes outstanding at any one time. No issuances have been made under this program as of December 31, 2010. Notes issued under the program may be senior notes with maturities from 30 days to 15 years and subordinated notes with maturities from 5 years to 30 years. These notes are not deposits and they are not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC.

Regions’ borrowing availability with the Federal Reserve Bank as of December 31, 2010, based on assets available for collateral at that date, was $16.6 billion.

Regions may, from time to time, consider opportunistically retiring outstanding issued securities, including subordinated debt, trust preferred securities and preferred shares in privately negotiated or open market transactions for cash or common shares.

NOTE 13. REGULATORY CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS

Regions and Regions Bank are subject to regulatory capital requirements administered by Federal banking agencies. These regulatory capital requirements involve quantitative measures of the Company’s assets, liabilities and certain off-balance sheet items, and also qualitative judgments by the regulators. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can subject the Company to a series of increasingly restrictive regulatory actions. As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, the most recent notification from Federal banking agencies categorized Regions and its significant subsidiaries as “well capitalized” under the regulatory framework.

Minimum capital requirements for all banks are Tier 1 capital of at least 4 percent of risk-weighted assets, Total capital of at least 8 percent of risk-weighted assets and a Leverage ratio of 3 percent of adjusted quarterly average assets. Tier 1 capital consists principally of stockholders’ equity, excluding accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), less goodwill, deferred tax assets, and certain other intangibles. Total capital consists of Tier 1 capital plus certain debt instruments and the allowance for credit losses, subject to limitation.

 

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The Company believes that no changes in conditions or events have occurred since December 31, 2010, which would result in changes that would cause Regions or Regions Bank to fall below the well capitalized level.

Regions’ and its banking subsidiary’s capital levels at December 31 exceeded both the minimum and “well capitalized” levels, as shown below:

 

     December 31, 2010     Minimum
Requirement
    To Be Well
Capitalized
 
     Amount      Ratio      
     (Dollars in millions)  

Tier 1 common (non-GAAP):

       

Regions Financial Corporation

   $ 7,457         7.85     NA (1)      NA (1) 

Tier 1 capital:

       

Regions Financial Corporation

   $ 11,775         12.40     4.00     6.00

Regions Bank

     10,971         11.68        4.00        6.00   

Total capital:

       

Regions Financial Corporation

   $ 15,527         16.35     8.00     10.00

Regions Bank

     14,028         14.93        8.00        10.00   

Leverage(2):

       

Regions Financial Corporation

   $ 11,775         9.30     3.00     5.00

Regions Bank

     10,971         8.85        3.00        5.00   

 

(1) The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System has identified 4 percent as the level of Tier 1 common capital sufficient to withstand adverse economic scenarios.
(2) The Leverage ratio requires an additional 100 to 200 basis-point cushion in certain circumstances, of adjusted quarterly average assets.

 

     December 31, 2009     Minimum
Requirement
    To Be Well
Capitalized
 
     Amount      Ratio      
     (Dollars in millions)  

Tier 1 common (non-GAAP):

       

Regions Financial Corporation

   $ 7,385         7.15     NA (1)      NA (1) 

Tier 1 capital:

       

Regions Financial Corporation

   $ 11,924         11.54     4.00     6.00

Regions Bank

     10,577         10.36        4.00        6.00   

Total capital:

       

Regions Financial Corporation

   $ 16,303         15.78     8.00     10.00

Regions Bank

     13,935         13.65        8.00        10.00   

Leverage(2):

       

Regions Financial Corporation

   $ 11,924         8.90     3.00     5.00

Regions Bank

     10,577         8.05        3.00        5.00   

 

(1) The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System has identified 4 percent as the level of Tier 1 common capital sufficient to withstand adverse economic scenarios.
(2) The Leverage ratio requires an additional 100 to 200 basis-point cushion in certain circumstances, of adjusted quarterly average assets.

Regions Bank is required to maintain reserve balances with the Federal Reserve Bank. The average amount of the reserve balances maintained for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, was approximately $12 million and $35 million, respectively.

Substantially all net assets are owned by subsidiaries. The primary source of operating cash available to Regions is provided by dividends from subsidiaries. Statutory limits are placed on the amount of dividends the subsidiary bank can pay without prior regulatory approval. In addition, regulatory authorities require the maintenance of minimum capital-to-asset ratios at banking subsidiaries. Under the Federal Reserve’s Regulation H,

 

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Regions Bank may not, without approval of the Federal Reserve, declare or pay a dividend to Regions if the total of all dividends declared in a calendar year exceeds the total of (a) Regions Bank’s net income for that year and (b) its retained net income for the preceding two calendar years, less any required transfers to additional paid-in capital or to a fund for the retirement of preferred stock. As a result of the losses incurred by Regions Bank in 2010, 2009, and 2008, Regions Bank cannot, without approval from the Federal Reserve, declare or pay a dividend to Regions until such time as Regions Bank is able to satisfy the criteria discussed in the preceding sentence. Given the losses in 2010, 2009, and 2008, Regions Bank does not expect to be able to pay dividends to Regions in the near term without obtaining regulatory approval. In addition to dividend restrictions, Federal statutes also prohibit unsecured loans from banking subsidiaries to the parent company. Because of these limitations, substantially all of the net assets of Regions’ subsidiaries are restricted.

In addition, Regions must adhere to various U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) regulatory guidelines including required minimum capital to maintain their Federal Housing Administration approved status. Failure to comply with the HUD guidelines could result in withdrawal of this certification. As of December 31, 2010, Regions was in compliance with HUD guidelines. Regions is also subject to various capital requirements by secondary market investors.

NOTE 14. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

On November 14, 2008, Regions completed the sale of 3.5 million shares of its Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A, par value $1.00 and liquidation preference $1,000.00 per share (and $3.5 billion liquidation preference in the aggregate) to the U.S. Treasury as part of the Capital Purchase Program (“CPP”). Regions will pay the U.S. Treasury on a quarterly basis a 5 percent dividend, or $175 million annually, for each of the first five years of the investment, and 9 percent thereafter unless Regions redeems the shares. Regions performed a discounted cash flow analysis to value the preferred stock at the date of issuance. For purposes of this analysis, Regions assumed that the preferred stock would most likely be redeemed five years from the valuation date based on optimal financial budgeting considerations. Regions used the Bloomberg USD US Bank BBB index to derive the market yield curve as of the valuation date to discount future expected cash flows to the valuation date. The discount rate used to value the preferred stock was 7.46 percent, based on this yield curve at a 5-year maturity. Dividends were assumed to be accrued until redemption. While the discounting was required based on a 5-year redemption, Regions did not have a 5-year security or similarly termed security available. As a result, it was necessary to use a benchmark yield curve to calculate the 5-year value. To determine the appropriate yield curve that was applicable to Regions, the yield to maturity on the outstanding debt instrument with the longest dated maturity (8.875% junior subordinated notes due June 2048) was compared to the longest point on the USD US Bank BBB index as of November 14, 2008. Regions concluded that the yield to maturity as of the valuation date of the debt, which was 11.03 percent, was consistent with the indicative yield of the curve noted above. The longest available point on this curve was 10.55 percent at 30 years.

As part of its purchase of the preferred securities, the U.S. Treasury also received a warrant to purchase 48.3 million shares of Regions’ common stock at an exercise price of $10.88 per share, subject to anti-dilution and other adjustments. The warrant expires ten years from the issuance date. Regions used the Cox-Ross-Rubinstein Binomial Option Pricing Model (“CRR Model”) to value the warrant at the date of issuance. The CRR Model is a standard option pricing model which incorporates optimal early exercise in order to receive the benefit of future dividend payments. Based on the transferability of the warrant, the CRR Model approach that was applied assumes that the warrant holder will not sub-optimally exercise its warrant. The following assumptions were used in the CRR Model:

 

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Stock price(a)

   $ 9.67   

Exercise price(b)

   $ 10.88   

Expected volatility(c)

     45.22

Risk-free rate(d)

     4.25

Dividend yield(e)

     3.88

Warrant term (in years)(b)

     10   

 

(a) Closing stock price of Regions as of the valuation date (November 14, 2008).
(b) As outlined in the Warrant to Purchase Agreement, dated November 14, 2008.
(c) Expected volatility based on Regions’ historical volatility, as of November 14, 2008, over a look-back period of 10 years, commensurate with the terms of the warrant.
(d) The risk-free rate represents the yield on 10-year U.S. Treasury Strips as of November 14, 2008.
(e) The dividend yield assumption was calculated based on a weighting of 30% on management’s dividend yield expectations for the next 3 years and a weighting of 70% on Regions’ average dividend yield over the 10 years prior to the valuation date.

The fair value allocation of the $3.5 billion between the preferred shares and the warrant resulted in $3.304 billion allocated to the preferred shares and $196 million allocated to the warrant. Accrued dividends on the Series A preferred shares reduced retained earnings by $175 million in both 2010 and 2009. The unamortized discount on the preferred shares was $120 million and $157 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Discount accretion on the preferred shares reduced retained earnings by $37 million during 2010 and $36 million in 2009. Both the preferred securities and the warrant are accounted for as components of Regions’ regulatory Tier 1 capital.

On May 20, 2009 the Company issued 287,500 shares of mandatorily convertible preferred stock, Series B (“Series B shares”), generating net proceeds of approximately $278 million. Accrued dividends on the Series B shares reduced retained earnings by $12 million and $19 million during 2010 and 2009, respectively. In November 2009, a single investor converted approximately 20,000 Series B shares to common shares as allowed under the original transaction documents. On June 18, 2010, as allowed by the terms of the Series B shares, Regions initiated an early conversion of all of the remaining outstanding Series B shares. Dividends accrued and unpaid at the conversion date were settled through issuance of common shares in accordance with the original document. No Series B shares were outstanding at December 31, 2010. Approximately 63 million common shares were issued in the conversion and dividend settlement.

On May 20, 2009, the Company announced a public equity offering and issued 460 million shares of common stock at $4 per share, generating proceeds of $1.8 billion, net of issuance costs.

In addition to the offerings mentioned above, the Company also exchanged approximately 33 million common shares for $202 million of outstanding 6.625 percent trust preferred securities issued by Regions Financing Trust II (“the Trust”) in the second quarter of 2009. The trust preferred securities were exchanged for junior subordinated notes issued by the Company to the Trust. The Company recognized a pre-tax gain of approximately $61 million on the extinguishment of the junior subordinated notes. The increase in shareholders’ equity related to the debt for common share exchange was approximately $135 million, net of issuance costs.

At December 31, 2010, there were 55,222,000 shares reserved for issuance under stock compensation plans. Stock options outstanding represent 55,000,000 shares and 222,000 shares are reserved for issuance under deferred compensation plans.

In 2010, Regions decreased its annual dividend to $0.04 per common share, compared to $0.13 in 2009 and $0.96 in 2008. Regions does not expect to increase its quarterly dividend above the current $0.01 per common share for the foreseeable future.

 

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Comprehensive income (loss) is the total of net income (loss) and all other non-owner changes in equity. Items that are to be recognized under accounting standards as components of comprehensive income (loss) are displayed in the consolidated statements of changes in stockholders’ equity. In the calculation of comprehensive income (loss), certain reclassification adjustments are made to avoid double-counting items that are displayed as part of net income (loss) for a period that also had been displayed as part of other comprehensive income (loss) in that period or earlier periods.

The disclosure of the reclassification amount for the years ended December 31 is as follows:

 

     2010  
     Before Tax     Tax Effect     Net of Tax  
     (In millions)  

Net income (loss)

   $ (885   $ 346      $ (539

Net unrealized holding gains and losses on securities available for sale arising during the period

     83        (21     62   

Less: reclassification adjustments for net securities gains realized in net income (loss)

     394        (138     256   
                        

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale

     (311     117        (194

Net unrealized holding gains and losses on derivatives arising during the period

     (9     3        (6

Less: reclassification adjustments for net gains realized in net income (loss)

     259        (99     160   
                        

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on derivative instruments

     (268     102        (166

Net actuarial gains and losses arising during the period

     (5     4        (1

Less: amortization of actuarial loss and prior service credit realized in net income (loss)

     44        (15     29   
                        

Net change from defined benefit plans

     (49     19        (30
                        

Comprehensive income (loss)

   $ (1,513   $ 584      $ (929
                        
     2009  
     Before Tax     Tax Effect     Net of Tax  
     (In millions)  

Net income (loss)

   $ (1,202   $ 171      $ (1,031

Net unrealized holding gains and losses on securities available for sale arising during the period

     515        (193     322   

Less: reclassification adjustments for net securities gains realized in net income (loss)

     69        (24     45   
                        

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale

     446        (169     277   

Net unrealized holding gains and losses on derivatives arising during the period

     147        (56     91   

Less: reclassification adjustments for net gains realized in net income (loss)

     362        (138     224   
                        

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on derivative instruments

     (215     82        (133

Net actuarial gains and losses arising during the period

     57        (20     37   

Less: amortization of actuarial loss and prior service credit realized in net income (loss)

     44        (15     29   
                        

Net change from defined benefit plans

     13        (5     8   
                        

Comprehensive income (loss)

   $ (958   $ 79      $ (879
                        

 

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     2008  
     Before Tax     Tax Effect     Net of Tax  
     (In millions)  

Net income (loss)

   $ (5,951   $ 355      $ (5,596

Net unrealized holding gains and losses on securities available for sale arising during the period

     (70     29        (41

Less: reclassification adjustments for net securities gains realized in net income (loss)

     92        (32     60   
                        

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale

     (162     61        (101

Net unrealized holding gains and losses on derivatives arising during the period

     449        (171     278   

Less: reclassification adjustments for net gains realized in net income (loss)

     142        (54     88   
                        

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on derivative instruments

     307        (117     190   

Net actuarial gains and losses arising during the period

     (504     192        (312

Less: amortization of actuarial loss and prior service credit realized in net income (loss)

     3        (1     2   
                        

Net change from defined benefit plans

     (507     193        (314
                        

Comprehensive income (loss)

   $ (6,313   $ 492      $ (5,821
                        

NOTE 15. EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE

The following table sets forth the computation of basic earnings (loss) per common share and diluted earnings (loss) per common share for the years ended December 31:

 

     2010     2009     2008  
    

(In millions, except

per share amounts)

 

Numerator:

      

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ (539   $ (1,031   $ (5,585

Less: Preferred stock dividends and accretion

     (224     (230     (26
                        

Income (loss) from continuing operations available to common shareholders

     (763     (1,261     (5,611

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

     —          —          (11
                        

Net income (loss) available to common shareholders

   $ (763   $ (1,261   $ (5,622
                        

Denominator:

      

Weighted-average common shares outstanding—basic and diluted

     1,227        989        695   
                        

Earnings (loss) per common share from continuing operations(1):

      

Basic

   $ (0.62   $ (1.27   $ (8.07

Diluted

     (0.62     (1.27     (8.07

Earnings (loss) per common share from discontinued operations(1):

      

Basic

     —          —          (0.02

Diluted

     —          —          (0.02

Earnings (loss) per common share(1):

      

Basic

     (0.62     (1.27     (8.09

Diluted

     (0.62     (1.27     (8.09

 

(1) Certain per share amounts may not appear to reconcile due to rounding.

 

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Basic and diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding are the same due to the net losses for all periods presented.

As discussed in Note 14, approximately 63 million common shares were issued in June of 2010 in connection with the conversion of the remaining Series B mandatorily convertible preferred shares, which were originally issued in May 2009. Under applicable accounting literature, such shares should be included in the denominator in arriving at diluted earnings per share as if they were issued at the beginning of the reporting period or as of the date issued, if later. Prior to conversion, these shares were not included in the computation above as such amounts would have had an antidilutive effect on earnings (loss) per common share.

NOTE 16. SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS

Regions has long-term incentive compensation plans that permit the granting of incentive awards in the form of stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock awards and units, and/or stock appreciation rights. While Regions has the ability to issue stock appreciation rights, as of December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, there were no outstanding stock appreciation rights. The terms of all awards issued under these plans are determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors; however, no awards may be granted after the tenth anniversary from the date the plans were initially approved by shareholders. Options and restricted stock usually vest based on employee service, generally within three years from the date of the grant. The contractual lives of options granted under these plans range from seven to ten years from the date of the grant.

On May 13, 2010, the shareholders of the Company approved the Regions Financial Corporation 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan (“2010 LTIP”), which permits the Company to grant to employees and directors various forms of incentive compensation. These forms of incentive compensation are similar to the types of compensation approved in prior plans. The 2010 LTIP authorizes 100 million common share equivalents available for grant, where grants of options count as one share equivalent and grants of full value awards (e.g., shares of restricted stock and restricted stock units) count as 2.25 share equivalents. Unless otherwise determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors, grants of restricted stock and restricted stock units accrue dividends as they are declared by the Board of Directors, and the dividends are paid upon vesting of the award. The 2010 LTIP closed all prior long-term incentive plans to new grants, and accordingly, prospective grants must be made under the 2010 LTIP or a successor plan. All existing grants under prior long-term incentive plans were unaffected by this amendment. The number of remaining share equivalents available for future issuance under the active long-term compensation plan was approximately 91 million at December 31, 2010.

Grants of performance-based restricted stock typically have a one-year performance period, after which shares vest within three years after the grant date. Restricted stock units, which were granted in 2008, have a vesting period of five years. Generally, the terms of these plans stipulate that the exercise price of options may not be less than the fair market value of Regions’ common stock at the date the options are granted; however, under prior stock option plans, non-qualified options could be granted with a lower exercise price than the fair market value of Regions’ common stock on the date of grant. The contractual life of options granted under these plans ranges from seven to ten years from the date of grant. Regions issues new shares from authorized reserves upon exercise. Grantees of restricted stock awards or units must either remain employed with the Company for certain periods from the date of grant in order for shares to be released or issued or retire after meeting the standards of a retiree, at which time shares would be prorated and released.

The following table summarizes the elements of compensation cost recognized in the consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 31:

 

     2010     2009     2008  
     (In millions)  

Compensation cost of share-based compensation awards:

      

Restricted stock awards and units

   $ 10      $ 33      $ 50   

Stock options

     13        14        16   

Tax benefits related to compensation cost

     (8     (17     (24
                        

Compensation cost of share-based compensation awards, net of tax

   $ 15      $ 30      $ 42   
                        

 

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STOCK OPTIONS

During 2010, Regions made stock option grants that vest based upon a service condition. The fair value of these stock options was estimated on the date of the grant using a Black-Scholes option pricing model and related assumptions. The stock options vest ratably over a three-year term. During 2009, Regions made stock option grants from prior long-term incentive plans that vest based upon a service condition and a market condition in addition to awards that were similar to prior grants. The fair value of these stock options was estimated on the date of the grant using a Monte-Carlo simulation method. The simulation generates a defined number of stock price paths in order to develop a reasonable estimate of the range of future expected stock prices and minimize standard error.

The following table summarizes the weighted-average assumptions used and the weighted-average estimated fair values related to stock options granted during the years ended December 31:

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Expected option life

     5.8  yrs.      6.8  yrs.      5.8  yrs. 

Expected volatility

     74.0     67.2     26.4

Expected dividend yield

     2.2     1.8     6.9

Risk-free interest rate

     2.2     2.8     2.9

Fair value

   $ 3.86      $ 1.79      $ 2.46   

Refer to Note 1 for a discussion of the methodologies used to derive the underlying assumptions used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The stock option awards granted during 2010 were granted to a broader pool of employees than the 2009 awards. The expected exercise behavior of the broader base of employees receiving awards resulted in a lower expected option life when comparing 2010 to 2009. The expected volatility increased based upon increases in the historical volatility of Regions’ stock price, offset slightly by reductions in the implied volatility measurements from traded options on the Company’s stock. The expected dividend yield increased in 2010 based upon the Company’s expectation of increased dividends over the long term.

The following table summarizes the activity for 2010, 2009 and 2008 related to stock options:

 

     Number of
Options
    Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
     Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value (In
Millions)
     Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
 

Outstanding at December 31, 2007

     48,044,207      $ 29.71         

Granted

     10,011,105        21.57         

Exercised

     (90,801     17.94         

Canceled/Forfeited

     (5,009,213     29.51         
                

Outstanding at December 31, 2008

     52,955,298      $ 28.22       $ —           5.53  yrs. 

Granted

     4,083,209        3.30         

Exercised

     —          —           

Canceled/Forfeited

     (4,069,947     27.84         
                

Outstanding at December 31, 2009

     52,968,560      $ 26.34       $ 8         5.04  yrs. 

Granted

     7,173,667        7.00         

Exercised

     (137,736     3.29         

Canceled/Forfeited

     (5,004,865     20.66         
                

Outstanding at December 31, 2010

     54,999,626      $ 24.41       $ 11         4.76  yrs. 
                                  

Exercisable at December 31, 2010

     44,711,301      $ 27.80       $ 6         3.83  yrs. 
                                  

For the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, the total intrinsic value of options exercised was immaterial for all years.

 

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RESTRICTED STOCK AWARDS

During 2010, Regions granted 1 million restricted shares that vest based upon a service condition. Dividend payments during the vesting period are deferred to the end of the vesting term. The fair value of these restricted shares was estimated based upon the fair value of the underlying shares on the date of the grant. The valuation was not adjusted for the deferral of dividends.

During 2009, Regions granted 3 million restricted shares that vest based upon a service condition and a market condition in addition to awards that were similar to prior grants. The fair value of these restricted shares was estimated on the date of the grant using a Monte-Carlo simulation method. The assumptions related to this grant included expected volatility of 84.81 percent, expected dividend yield of 1.00 percent, and an expected term of 4.0 years based on the vesting term of the market condition. The risk-free rate is consistent with the assumption used to value stock options. For all other grants that vest solely upon a service condition, the fair value of the awards is estimated based upon the fair value of the underlying shares on the date of the grant.

Restricted stock award and unit activity for 2010, 2009 and 2008 is summarized as follows:

 

     Number of
Shares/Units
    Weighted-Average
Fair Value
(Grant Date)
 

Non-vested at December 31, 2007

     3,651,054      $ 32.60   

Granted

     1,704,599        20.99   

Vested

     (799,276     34.07   

Forfeited

     (432,466     31.11   
                

Non-vested at December 31, 2008

     4,123,911      $ 27.67   

Granted

     3,100,415        2.87   

Vested

     (804,229     16.39   

Forfeited

     (455,503     16.47   
                

Non-vested at December 31, 2009

     5,964,594      $ 17.15   

Granted

     1,166,968        6.96   

Vested

     (936,412     34.00   

Forfeited

     (1,264,706     15.97   
                

Non-vested at December 31, 2010

     4,930,444      $ 12.13   
                

As of December 31, 2010, the pre-tax amount of non-vested stock options and restricted stock awards and units not yet recognized was $51 million, which will be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.90 years. No share-based compensation costs were capitalized during the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008.

Regions issued 857,957 and 645,683 of cash-settled restricted stock units during 2010 and 2009, respectively. There were no cash-settled restricted stock units issued during 2008.

NOTE 17. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS

Regions has a defined-benefit pension plan (the “pension plan”) covering only certain employees as the pension plan is closed to new entrants. Benefits under the pension plan are based on years of service and the employee’s highest five years of compensation during the last ten years of employment. Regions’ funding policy is to contribute annually at least the amount required by Internal Revenue Service minimum funding standards. Contributions are intended to provide not only for benefits attributed to service to date, but also for those expected to be earned in the future. The Company also sponsors a supplemental executive retirement program (the “SERP”), which is a non-qualified plan that provides certain senior executive officers defined benefits in relation to their compensation. All defined-benefit plans are referred to as “the plans” throughout the remainder of this footnote. Regions also sponsors defined-benefit postretirement health care plans that cover certain retired

 

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employees. For employees retiring before normal retirement age, the Company currently pays a portion of the costs of certain health care benefits until the retired employee becomes eligible for Medicare. Certain retirees, participating in plans of acquired entities, are offered a Medicare supplemental benefit. The plan is contributory and contains other cost-sharing features such as deductibles and co-payments. Retiree health care benefits, as well as similar benefits for active employees, are provided through a self-insured program in which Company and retiree costs are based on the amount of benefits paid. The Company’s policy is to fund the Company’s share of the cost of health care benefits in amounts determined at the discretion of management. Postretirement life insurance is also provided to a grandfathered group of employees and retirees. Actuarially determined pension expense is charged to current operations using the projected unit credit method. Expense associated with the SERP and postretirement benefit plans is charged to current operations based on actuarial calculations.

Effective April 16, 2009, future benefit accruals under the pension plan and the SERP were suspended for all participants. Even during the suspension, participants continued to earn service toward vesting and eligibility for early retirement benefits. Effective January 1, 2010, these benefit accruals were reinstated for pension plan and SERP participants.

The following table sets forth the plans’ change in benefit obligation, plan assets and the funded status of the pension and other postretirement benefits plans, using a December 31 measurement date, and amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets at December 31:

 

     Pension     Other
Postretirement
Benefits
 
     2010     2009     2010     2009  
           (In millions)        

Change in benefit obligation

        

Projected benefit obligation, beginning of period

   $ 1,586      $ 1,475      $ 38      $ 36   

Service cost

     36        3        —          —     

Interest cost

     93        90        1        2   

Actuarial losses (gains)

     119        108        (5     3   

Benefit payments

     (74     (74     (3     (3

Settlement payments

     (35     (16     —          —     
                                

Projected benefit obligation, end of period

   $ 1,725      $ 1,586      $ 31      $ 38   
                                

Change in plan assets

        

Fair value of plan assets, beginning of period

   $ 1,252      $ 1,067      $ 4      $ 4   

Actual return on plan assets

     128        157        —          —     

Company contributions

     238        109        3        3   

Benefit payments

     (74     (74     (3     (3

Settlement payments

     (32     (3     —          —     

Administrative expenses

     (3     (4     —          —     
                                

Fair value of plan assets, end of period

   $ 1,509      $ 1,252      $ 4      $ 4   
                                

Funded status and prepaid (accrued) benefit cost at measurement date

   $ (216   $ (334   $ (27   $ (34
                                

Amount recognized in the

        

Consolidated Balance Sheets:

        

Other liabilities

   $ (216   $ (334   $ (27   $ (34
                                

Amounts recognized in

        

Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss:

        

Net actuarial loss (gain)

   $ 533      $ 483      $ (6   $ (2

Prior service cost (credit)

     6        7        (7     (8
                                
   $ 539      $ 490      $ (13   $ (10
                                

 

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The settlement payments during 2010 and 2009 relate to the settlement of liabilities under the SERP for certain executive officers.

The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined-benefit plans was $1.6 billion and $1.5 billion as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, which exceeded all corresponding plan assets as of December 31, 2010 and 2009.

Net periodic benefit cost included the following components for the years ended December 31:

 

     Pension     Other Postretirement
Benefits
 
     2010     2009     2008     2010     2009     2008  
                 (In millions)              

Service cost

   $ 36      $ 3      $ 51      $ —        $ —        $ 1   

Interest cost

     93        90        109        1        2        3   

Expected return on plan assets

     (107     (88     (148     —          —          —     

Amortization of actuarial loss

     44        50        —          —          —          —     

Amortization of prior service cost (credit)

     1        1        3        (1     (1     (1

Settlement charge

     3        1        —          —          —          —     

Curtailment gains

     —          —          (3     —          —          —     
                                                

Net periodic benefit cost

   $ 70      $ 57      $ 12      $ —        $ 1      $ 3   
                                                

The estimated amounts that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into net periodic benefit cost in 2011 are as follows:

 

     Pension      Other
Postretirement Benefits
 
     (In millions)                

Actuarial loss (gain)

   $ 45       $ —     

Prior service cost (credit)

     1         (1
                 
   $ 46       $ (1
                 

The weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31 are as follows:

 

     Pension     Other
Postretirement Benefits
 
     2010     2009     2010     2009  

Discount rate

     5.41     6.02     4.90     5.35

Rate of annual compensation increase

     3.76        5.00        N/A        N/A   

The weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for the years ended December 31 are as follows:

 

     Pension     Other Postretirement
Benefits
 
     2010     2009     2008     2010     2009     2008  

Discount rate

     6.02     6.15     6.38     5.35     6.20     6.20

Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets

     8.25        8.50        8.50        5.00        5.00        5.00   

Rate of annual compensation increase

     5.00        5.00        4.99        N/A        N/A        N/A   

The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is based on an estimated reasonable range of probable returns. Management chose a point within the range based on the probability of achievement combined with incremental returns attributable to active management.

The assumed health care cost trend rate for postretirement medical benefits was 6.8 percent for 2010 and is assumed to decrease gradually to 4.5 percent by 2027 and remain at that level thereafter.

 

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A one-percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects:

 

    1-Percentage
Point Increase
    1-Percentage
Point Decrease
 
    (In thousands)  

Effect on total of service cost and interest cost components

  $ 44      $ (39

Effect on postretirement benefit obligations

    943        (845

The pension plan’s investment strategy is continuing to shift from focusing on maximizing asset returns to minimizing funding ratio volatility, with an increase to the allocation to bonds. The target asset allocation is 43 percent equities, 32 percent fixed income securities and 25 percent in all other types of investments. Equity securities include investments in large and small/mid cap companies primarily located in the United States as well as investments in international equities. Fixed income securities include investments in corporate and government bonds, asset-backed securities and any other fixed income investments as allowed by respective prospectuses and other offering documents. Other types of investments may include hedge funds, real estate funds, and private equity funds that follow several different strategies. Plan assets are highly diversified with respect to asset class, security and manager. Investment risk is controlled with plan assets rebalancing to target allocations on a periodic basis and continual monitoring of investment managers’ performance relative to the investment guidelines established with each investment manager.

The Regions pension plan has a portion of its investments in Regions common stock. At December 31, 2010, the number of shares held by the plan was 2,855,618, which represents approximately 1.3 percent of the plan assets for a total market value of approximately $20 million.

The following table presents the fair value of Regions’ defined-benefit pension plans’ and other postretirement plans’ financial assets:

 

     December 31, 2010  
      Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Fair
Value
 
            (In millions)         

Cash and cash equivalents(1)

   $ 100       $ —         $ —         $ 100   

Fixed income securities

     —           271         —           271   

Common stock

     410         —           —           410   

Mutual funds

     368         —           —           368   

Collective investment trust funds

     40         158         —           198   

Hedge funds

     —           —           54         54   

Real estate funds

     —           —           102         102   

Miscellaneous assets

     —           —           10         10   
                 

Total

  

   $ 1,513   
                 

 

  (1) This amount includes the other postretirement plans’ financial assets of approximately $4 million.

 

     December 31, 2009  
      Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Fair
Value
 
            (In millions)         

Cash and cash equivalents(1)

   $ 183       $ —         $ —         $ 183   

Fixed income securities

     —           325         —           325   

Common stock

     329         —           —           329   

Mutual funds

     309         —           —           309   

Hedge funds

     —           —           52         52   

Real estate funds

     —           —           56         56   

Miscellaneous assets

     —           —           2         2   
                 

Total

  

   $ 1,256   
                 

 

  (1) This amount includes the other postretirement plans’ financial assets of approximately $4 million.

 

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For all investments, quoted market prices of identical assets on active exchanges, or Level 1 measurements, are used if available. Where such quoted market prices are not available, quoted market prices of similar instruments (including matrix pricing) and/or discounted cash flows to estimate a value of these securities, or Level 2 measurements are utilized. Level 2 discounted cash flow analyses are typically based on market interest rates, prepayment speeds and/or option adjusted spreads. Level 3 measurements are based on assumptions that are not readily observable in the market place.

The following table illustrates a rollforward for pension plan financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended December 31 (the other postretirement plan had no Level 3 financial assets):

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2010  
      Hedge funds     Real estate
funds
    Miscellaneous
assets
 
     (In millions)  

Beginning balance, January 1, 2010

   $ 52      $ 56      $ 2   

Actual return on plan assets:

      

Attributable to assets sold during the reporting period

     —          —          —     

Attributable to assets held at December 31, 2010

     4        (4     —     

Purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements, net

     (2     50        8   
                        

Ending balance, December 31, 2010

   $ 54      $ 102      $ 10   
                        

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2009  
      Hedge funds     Real estate
funds
    Miscellaneous
assets
 
     (In millions)  

Beginning balance, January 1, 2009

   $ 78      $ 82      $ 1   

Actual return on plan assets:

      

Attributable to assets sold during the reporting period

     2        —          —     

Attributable to assets held at December 31, 2009

     8        (28     —     

Purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements, net

     (36     2        1   
                        

Ending balance, December 31, 2009

   $ 52      $ 56      $ 2   
                        

Information about the expected cash flows for the pension plan and other postretirement benefits plans is as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     Pension      Other Postretirement
Benefits
 
     (In millions)  

Expected Employer Contributions:

     

2011

   $ 9       $ 3   

Expected Benefit Payments:

     

2011

   $ 82       $ 4   

2012

     84         4   

2013

     89         3   

2014

     96         3   

2015

     93         2   

2016-2020

     558         10   

OTHER PLANS

Regions has a defined-contribution 401(k) plan that historically included a company match of eligible employee contributions. Through March 31, 2009, this match totaled 100 percent of the eligible employee

 

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pre-tax contribution (up to 6 percent of compensation) after one year of service and was initially invested in Regions common stock. Matching contributions in the 401(k) plan were temporarily suspended beginning in the second quarter of 2009. Effective January 1, 2010, Regions restored matching contributions to the 401(k) plan to the pre-existing levels. Regions’ contribution to the 401(k) plan on behalf of employees totaled $40 million, $18 million and $55 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Regions’ 401(k) plan held 28 million and 24 million shares of Regions common stock at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, the 401(k) plan received $1 million, $5 million and $12 million, respectively, in dividends on Regions common stock.

NOTE 18. OTHER NON-INTEREST INCOME AND EXPENSE

The following is a detail of other non-interest income for the years ended December 31:

 

     2010      2009      2008  
     (In millions)  

Insurance commissions and fees

   $ 104       $ 105       $ 110   

Bank-owned life insurance

     88         74         78   

Commercial credit fee income

     76         70         68   

Gain on early extinguishment of debt

     —           61         —     

Other miscellaneous income

     115         194         178   
                          
   $    383       $    504       $    434   
                          

The following is a detail of non-interest expense for the years ended December 31:

 

     2010      2009      2008  
     (In millions)  

Professional and legal fees

   $ 303       $ 309       $ 214   

Amortization of core deposit intangibles

     107         120         134   

Other real estate owned expense

     209         175         103   

Marketing

     68         75         97   

Mortgage servicing rights impairment

     —           —           85   

FDIC special assessment

     —           64         —     

FDIC premiums

     220         163         15   

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     108         —           66   

Other miscellaneous expenses

     698         736         922   
                          
   $ 1,713       $ 1,642       $ 1,636   
                          

NOTE 19. INCOME TAXES

The components of income tax (benefit) expense for the years ended December 31 were as follows:

 

     2010     2009     2008  
     (In millions)  

Current income tax (benefit) expense

      

Federal

   $ (140   $ (420   $ 32   

State

     4        4        27   
                        

Total current (benefit) expense

   $ (136   $ (416   $ 59   
                        

Deferred income tax (benefit) expense

      

Federal

   $ (139   $ 351      $ (318

State

     (71     (106     (89
                        

Total deferred (benefit) expense

   $ (210   $ 245      $ (407
                        

Total income tax benefit

   $ (346   $ (171   $ (348
                        

 

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Income tax expense does not reflect the tax effects of unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale, unrealized gains and losses on derivative instruments and the net change from defined benefit plans. Refer to Note 14 for additional information on stockholders’ equity and comprehensive income (loss).

The income tax effects resulting from stock transactions under the Company’s compensation plans were a decrease to stockholders’ equity of $11 million, $0 million and $16 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Income taxes for financial reporting purposes differs from the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 35 percent for the years ended December 31, as shown in the following table:

 

     2010     2009     2008  
     (In millions)  

Tax on income (loss) computed at statutory federal income tax rate

   $ (310   $ (421   $ (2,076

Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from:

      

State income tax, net of federal tax effect

     (44     (65     (38

Affordable housing credits and other credits

     (102     (80     (56

Lease financing

     74        458        8   

Regulatory charge

     70        —          —     

Bank-owned life insurance

     (33     (30     (31

Tax-exempt income from obligations of states and political subdivisions

     (23     (22     (27

Effect of prior period unrecognized tax benefits, including interest

     (4     (2     (284

Goodwill impairment

     —          —          2,100   

Other, net

     26        (9     56   
                        

Income tax benefit

   $ (346   $ (171   $ (348
                        

Effective tax rate

     39.1     14.2     5.9

Significant components of the Company’s net deferred tax asset at December 31 are listed below:

 

     2010     2009  
     (In millions)  

Deferred tax assets:

    

Allowance for loan losses

   $ 1,232      $ 1,206   

Net operating loss carryfowards, if applicable, net of federal benefit

     229        129   

Federal tax credit carryforwards

     185        38   

Unrealized gains and losses included in stockholders’ equity

     163        —     

Employee benefits and deferred compensation

     83        148   

Other

     251        213   
                

Total deferred tax assets

     2,143        1,734   

Less: valuation allowance

     (30     (23
                

Total deferred tax assets less valuation allowance

     2,113        1,711   
                

Deferred tax liabilities:

    

Lease financing

     303        191   

Goodwill and intangibles

     240        269   

Mortgage servicing rights

     79        64   

Fixed assets

     68        79   

FDIC assessment

     —          79   

Unrealized gains and losses included in stockholders’ equity

     —          75   

Other

     36        4   
                

Total deferred tax liabilities

     726        761   
                

Net deferred tax asset

   $ 1,387      $ 950   
                

 

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The following table provides details of the Company’s tax carryforwards at December 31, 2010, including the expiration dates, any related valuation allowance and the amount of taxable earnings necessary to fully realize each net deferred tax asset balance:

 

     Expiration
Dates
   Deferred Tax
Asset Balance
     Valuation
Allowance
    Net Deferred
Tax Asset
Balance
     Pre-Tax
Earnings
Necessary to
Realize(1)
 
     (In millions)  

Net operating losses-federal

   2030    $ 55       $ —        $ 55       $ 157   

General business credits-federal

   2029-2030      185         —          185         N/A   

Other carryforwards-federal

   2014-2015      5         —          5         15   

Net operating losses-states

   2012-2015      7         (6     1         14   

Net operating losses-states

   2016-2022      72         (4     68         1,617   

Net operating losses-states

   2023-2031      95         (16     79         2,014   

Other credits-states

   2011-2015      8         (4     4         N/A   

 

(1) N/A indicates that credits are not measured on a pre-tax basis.

The Company’s determination of the realization of the net deferred tax asset is based on its assessment of all available positive and negative evidence. The Company is currently in a three-year cumulative loss position, which represents negative evidence. Of the $1.4 billion net deferred tax asset, $427 million relates to net operating losses and tax carryforwards, which, except for $92 million, expire before 2023 (as detailed in the table above). The remaining $960 million of net deferred tax assets do not have a set expiration date at December 31, 2010.

At December 31, 2010, positive evidence supporting the realization of the deferred tax asset includes the reversal of taxable temporary differences as well as tax planning strategies that will offset in excess of $1 billion of the gross deferred tax asset. The Company has projected future taxable income over the next five tax years. Further positive evidence includes the Company’s strong capital position and history of significant pre-tax earnings which the Company believes outweighs the negative evidence of recent pre-tax losses.

The Company does not believe that a portion of the state net operating loss carryforwards and state tax credit carryforwards will be realized due to the length of certain state carryforward periods. Accordingly, a valuation allowance has been established in the amount of $30 million against such benefits at December 31, 2010 compared to $23 million at December 31, 2009. Except for certain state tax carryforwards, the Company believes the net deferred tax asset is more-likely-than-not to be realized.

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits (“UTBs”) is as follows:

 

     2010     2009     2008  
     (In millions)  

Balance at beginning of year

   $ 26      $ 55      $ 746   

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

     9        5        76   

Additions based on tax positions taken in a prior period

     32        14        2   

Reductions based on tax positions taken in a prior period

     (29     —          —     

Settlements

     —          (48     (769
                        

Balance at end of year

   $ 38      $ 26      $ 55   
                        

As the successor of acquired taxpayers, the Company is responsible for the resolution of examinations from both federal and state taxing authorities for those acquired taxpayers and their subsidiaries. In December 2008, the Company reached an agreement with the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) Appeals Division that included the U.S. federal income tax returns of Regions and predecessor taxpayer entities for the tax years 1999-2006.

It is reasonably possible that the examination of the federal income tax returns for the tax years 2007, 2008 and 2009 will be concluded during the next twelve months. During 2010, the IRS completed the field examination

 

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for these years and issued Revenue Agent’s Reports to the Company. Included within these reports was a proposed adjustment to adjust the timing of deductions related to certain expenses. The Company disagrees with this proposed adjustment and has filed a protest with the IRS Appeals Division. The impact of the protest, whether successful or not, will not have a material impact on the Company’s business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to state and local income tax examinations for tax years before 2006. Currently, there are disputed tax positions taken in previously filed tax returns with certain states, including positions regarding investment and intellectual property subsidiaries. The Company continues to evaluate these positions and intends to defend proposed adjustments made by these tax authorities. The Company does not anticipate that the ultimate resolution of these examinations will result in a material change to its business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

As a result of the potential resolution of the federal and certain state income tax examinations, it is reasonably possible that the UTB balance could decrease as much as $1 million during the next twelve months.

As of December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, the balance of the Company’s UTBs that would reduce the effective tax rate, if recognized, was $24 million, $18 million and $36 million, respectively. The remainder of the UTB balance has indirect tax benefits in other jurisdictions or is the tax effect of temporary differences.

During 2010, 2009 and 2008, the Company recognized interest expense and income related to income taxes, before the impact of federal and state deductions, of $2 million, $5 million and $39 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, the Company recognized a liability of $10 million and $5 million, respectively, for interest related to income taxes, before the impact of federal and state deductions.

NOTE 20. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

The following tables present the notional and fair value of derivative instruments on a gross basis as of December 31:

 

     December 31, 2010  
          Asset Derivatives     Liability Derivatives  
    Notional
Value
    Balance Sheet
Location
    Fair
Value
    Balance Sheet
Location
    Fair
Value
 
    (In millions)  

Derivatives in fair value hedging relationships:

         

Interest rate swaps

  $ 9,230        Other assets      $ 226        Other liabilities      $ —     
                           

Total

    9,230          226          —     
                           

Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships:

         

Interest rate swaps

    15,680        Other assets        43        Other liabilities        127   

Interest rate options

    2,000        Other assets        5        Other liabilities        —     
                           

Total

    17,680          48          127   
                           

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments

  $ 26,910        $ 274        $ 127   
                           

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:

         

Interest rate swaps

  $ 51,238        Other assets      $ 1,778        Other liabilities      $ 1,823   

Interest rate options

    3,883        Other assets        40        Other liabilities        29   

Interest rate futures and forward commitments

    34,965        Other assets        35        Other liabilities        10   

Other contracts

    1,331        Other assets        21        Other liabilities        19   
                           

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

  $ 91,417        $ 1,874        $ 1,881   
                           

Total derivatives

  $ 118,327        $ 2,148        $ 2,008   
                           

 

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     December 31, 2009  
          Asset Derivatives     Liability Derivatives  
    Notional
Value
    Balance Sheet
Location
    Fair
Value
    Balance Sheet
Location
    Fair
Value
 
    (In millions)  

Derivatives in fair value hedging relationships:

         

Interest rate swaps

  $ 10,258        Other assets      $ 217        Other liabilities      $ 22   
                           

Total

    10,258          217          22   
                           

Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships:

         

Interest rate swaps

    5,300        Other assets        173        Other liabilities        —     

Interest rate options

    2,000        Other assets        52        Other liabilities        —     

Eurodollar futures(1)

    30,225        Other assets        —          Other liabilities        —     
                           

Total

    37,525          225          —     
                           

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments

  $ 47,783        $ 442        $ 22   
                           

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:

         

Interest rate swaps

  $ 55,474        Other assets      $ 1,518        Other liabilities      $ 1,505   

Interest rate options

    3,097        Other assets        26        Other liabilities        33   

Interest rate futures and forward commitments

    4,272        Other assets        13        Other liabilities        —     

Other contracts

    1,323        Other assets        20        Other liabilities        19   
                           

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

  $ 64,166        $ 1,577        $ 1,557   
                           

Total derivatives

  $ 111,949        $ 2,019        $ 1,579   
                           

 

(1) Changes in fair value are cash-settled daily; therefore there is no ending balance at any given reporting period.

HEDGING DERIVATIVES

Regions enters into interest rate swap agreements to manage overall cash flow changes related to interest rate risk exposure on LIBOR-based loans. The agreements effectively modify the Company’s exposure to interest rate risk by utilizing receive fixed/pay LIBOR interest rate swaps.

Regions issues long-term fixed-rate debt for various funding needs. Regions enters into receive LIBOR/pay-fixed forward starting swaps to hedge risks of changes in the projected quarterly interest payments attributable to changes in the benchmark interest rate (LIBOR) during the time leading up to the probable issuance date of the new long term fixed-rate debt.

Regions enters into interest rate option contracts to protect cash flows through the maturity date of the hedging instrument on designated one-month LIBOR floating-rate loans from adverse extreme market interest rate changes. Regions purchases Eurodollar futures to hedge the variability in future cash flows based on forecasted resets of one-month LIBOR-based floating rate loans due to changes in the benchmark interest rate. Regions realized an after-tax benefit of $37 million and $13 million in accumulated other comprehensive income at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, related to terminated cash flow hedges of loan and debt instruments which will be amortized into earnings in conjunction with the recognition of interest payments through the end of 2011. Regions recognized pre-tax income of $41 million and $39 million during the years ended 2010 and 2009, respectively, related to this amortization of cash flow hedges of loan and debt instruments.

Regions expects to reclassify out of other comprehensive income and into earnings approximately $143 million in pre-tax income due to the receipt of interest payments on all cash flow hedges within the next twelve

 

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months. Of this amount, $60 million relates to the amortization of discontinued cash flow hedges. The maximum length of time over which Regions is hedging its exposure to the variability in future cash flows for forecasted transactions is approximately seven years as of December 31, 2010.

The following tables present the effect of derivative instruments on the statement of operations for the years ended December 31:

 

Year Ended December 31, 2010

 

Derivatives in Fair
Value Hedging
Relationships

  Location of Gain(Loss)
Recognized in Income on
Derivatives
    Amount of Gain(Loss)
Recognized in
Income on
Derivatives
    Hedged Items in
Fair Value Hedge
Relationships
    Location of Gain(Loss)
Recognized in Income on
Related Hedged Item
    Amount of
Gain(Loss)
Recognized
in Income on
Related
Hedged Item
 
          (In millions)                    

Interest rate swaps

    Other non-interest expense      $ 47        Debt/CDs        Other non-interest expense      $ (62

Interest rate swaps

    Interest expense        245        Debt        Interest expense        11   
                     

Total

    $ 292          $ (51
                     

Derivatives in Cash
Flow Hedging
Relationships

  Amount of Gain(Loss)
Recognized in OCI on
Derivatives (Effective
Portion)(1)
    Location of
Gain(Loss)
Reclassified from
Accumulated OCI into
Income (Effective
Portion)
    Amount of
Gain(Loss)
Reclassified from
Accumulated
OCI into Income
(Effective
Portion)(2)
    Location of Gain(Loss)
Recognized in Income on
Derivatives (Ineffective
Portion and Amount
Excluded from
Effectiveness Testing)
    Amount of
Gain(Loss)
Recognized
in Income on
Derivatives
(Ineffective
Portion and
Amount
Excluded
from
Effectiveness
Testing)(2)
 
          (In millions)                    

Interest rate swaps

  $ (97     Interest income on loans      $ 182        Other non-interest expense      $ (5

Forward starting swaps

    (35     Interest expense on debt        —          Other non-interest expense        —     

Interest rate options

    (21     Interest income on loans        43        Interest income on loans        —     

Eurodollar futures

    (13     Interest income on loans        34        Other non-interest expense        (7
                           

Total

  $ (166     $ 259        $ (12
                           

 

(1) After-tax
(2) Pre-tax

 

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Year Ended December 31, 2009

 

Derivatives in Fair
Value Hedging
Relationships

  Location of Gain(Loss)
Recognized in Income on
Derivatives
    Amount of Gain(Loss)
Recognized in
Income on
Derivatives
    Hedged Items in
Fair Value Hedge
Relationships
    Location of Gain(Loss)
Recognized in Income on
Related Hedged Item
    Amount of
Gain(Loss)
Recognized
in Income on
Related
Hedged Item
 
          (In millions)                    

Interest rate swaps

    Other non-interest expense      $ (113     Debt/CDs        Other non-interest expense      $ 105   

Interest rate swaps

    Interest expense        169        Debt        Interest expense        4   
                     

Total

    $ 56          $ 109   
                     

Derivatives in Cash
Flow Hedging
Relationships

  Amount of Gain(Loss)
Recognized in OCI on
Derivatives
(Effective Portion)(1)
    Location of
Gain(Loss)
Reclassified from
Accumulated OCI into
Income
(Effective Portion)
    Amount of
Gain(Loss)
Reclassified from
Accumulated
OCI into Income
(Effective
Portion)(2)
    Location of Gain(Loss)
Recognized in Income on
Derivatives (Ineffective
Portion and Amount
Excluded from
Effectiveness Testing)
    Amount of
Gain(Loss)
Recognized
in Income on
Derivatives
(Ineffective
Portion and
Amount
Excluded
from
Effectiveness
Testing)(2)
 
          (In millions)                    

Interest rate swaps

  $ (97     Interest income on loans      $ 238        Other non-interest expense      $ 9   

Forward starting swaps

    10        Interest expense on debt        —          Other non-interest expense        —     

Interest rate options

    (29     Interest income on loans        85        Interest income on loans        —     

Eurodollar futures

    (5     Interest income on loans        30        Other non-interest expense        9   
                           

Total

  $ (121     $ 353        $ 18   
                           

 

(1) After-tax
(2) Pre-tax

DERIVATIVES NOT DESIGNATED AS HEDGES

The Company maintains a derivatives trading portfolio of interest rate swaps, option contracts, and futures and forward commitments used to meet the needs of its customers. The portfolio is used to generate trading profit and to help clients manage market risk. The Company is subject to the credit risk that a counterparty will fail to perform. The Company is also subject to market risk, which is evaluated by the Company and monitored by the asset/liability management function. Separate derivative contracts are entered into to reduce overall market exposure to pre-defined limits. The contracts in this portfolio do not qualify for hedge accounting and are marked-to-market through earnings and included in other assets and other liabilities.

In the normal course of business, Morgan Keegan enters into underwriting and forward and future commitments on U.S. Government and municipal securities. As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, the total notional amount related to forward and future commitments was $312 million and $236 million, respectively. The brokerage subsidiary typically settles its position by entering into equal but opposite contracts and, as such, the contract amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. Settlement of the transactions relating to such commitments is not expected to have a material effect on the subsidiary’s financial position. Transactions involving future settlement give rise to market risk, which represents the potential loss that can be caused by a change in the market value of a particular financial instrument. The exposure to market risk is determined by a number of factors, including size, composition and diversification of positions held, the absolute and relative levels of interest rates, and market volatility.

Regions enters into interest rate lock commitments, which are commitments to originate mortgage loans whereby the interest rate on the loan is determined prior to funding and the customers have locked into that interest rate. At December 31, 2010 and 2009, Regions had $717 million and $368 million, respectively, in total

 

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notional amount of rate lock commitments. Regions manages market risk on interest rate lock commitments and mortgage loans held for sale with corresponding forward sale commitments, which are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in mortgage income. At December 31, 2010 and 2009, Regions had $1.7 billion and $1.1 billion, respectively, in total absolute notional amount related to these forward rate commitments.

On January 1, 2009, Regions made an election to account for mortgage servicing rights at fair market value with any changes to fair value being recorded within mortgage income. Concurrent with the election to use the fair value measurement method, Regions began using various derivative instruments, in the form of forward rate commitments, futures contracts, swaps and swaptions to mitigate the statement of operations effect of changes in the fair value of its mortgage servicing rights. As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, the total notional amount related to these contracts was $1.8 billion and $275 million, respectively.

The following tables present the location and amount of gain or (loss) recognized in income on derivatives not designated as hedging instruments in the statement of operations for the years ended December 31:

 

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

   2010     2009  
     (In millions)  

Brokerage income

    

Interest rate swaps

   $ (10   $ 4   

Interest rate options

     3        (43

Interest rate futures and forward commitments

     (3     7   

Other contracts

     11        2   
                

Total brokerage income

     1        (30
                

Mortgage income

    

Interest rate swaps

     18        —     

Interest rate options

     2        (8

Interest rate futures and forward commitments

     68        50   
                

Total mortgage income

     88        42   
                
   $ 89      $ 12   
                

Credit risk, defined as all positive exposures not collateralized with cash or other assets, totaled approximately $1.0 billion and $956 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. This amount represents the net credit risk on all trading and other derivative positions held by Regions.

CREDIT DERIVATIVES

Regions has both bought and sold credit protection in the form of participations on interest rate swaps (swap participations). These swap participations, which meet the definition of credit derivatives, were entered into in the ordinary course of business to serve the credit needs of customers. Credit derivatives, whereby Regions has purchased credit protection, entitle Regions to receive a payment from the counterparty when the customer fails to make payment on any amounts due to Regions upon early termination of the swap transaction and have maturities between 2012 and 2026. Credit derivatives whereby Regions has sold credit protection have maturities between 2011 and 2016. For contracts where Regions sold credit protection, Regions would be required to make payment to the counterparty when the customer fails to make payment on any amounts due to the counterparty upon early termination of the swap transaction. Regions bases the current status of the prepayment/performance risk on bought and sold credit derivatives on recently issued internal risk ratings consistent with the risk management practices of unfunded commitments.

Regions’ maximum potential amount of future payments under these contracts is approximately $37 million. This scenario would only occur if variable interest rates were at zero percent and all counterparties defaulted with

 

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zero recovery. The fair value of sold protection at December 31, 2010 was immaterial. In transactions where Regions has sold credit protection, recourse to collateral associated with the original swap transaction is available to offset some or all of Regions’ obligation.

CONTINGENT FEATURES

Certain of Regions Bank’s derivative instrument contracts with broker-dealers contain provisions allowing those broker-dealers to terminate the contracts in the event that Regions’ and/or Regions Bank’s credit rating falls below specified ratings from certain major credit rating agencies. During the fourth quarter 2010, Regions and Regions Bank experienced ratings downgrades from major credit rating agencies. At December 31, 2010, Moody’s credit ratings for Regions and Regions Bank were below investment grade, and S&P credit ratings for Regions were below investment grade. As a result of these downgrades, certain of Regions Bank’s broker-dealer counterparties could have terminated these contracts at their discretion. In lieu of terminating the contracts, Regions Bank and certain of its broker-dealer counterparties amended the contracts such that Regions Bank was required to post additional collateral in the cumulative amount of $195 million to theses counterparties.

Some of these contracts with broker-dealers still contain credit-related termination provisions and/or credit-related provisions regarding the posting of collateral. At December 31, 2010, the net fair value of such contracts containing credit-related termination provisions that were in a liability position was $446 million, for which Regions had posted collateral of $591 million. At December 31, 2010, the net fair value of contracts that do not contain credit-related termination provisions that were in a liability position was $224 million for which Regions had posted collateral of $219 million. Other derivative contracts with broker-dealers do not contain any credit-related provisions. These counterparties require complete overnight collateralization.

The aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with any credit-risk-related contingent features that are in a liability position on December 31, 2010 and 2009, was $508 million and $261 million, respectively, for which Regions had posted collateral of $652 million and $247 million, respectively, in the normal course of business.

NOTE 21. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Fair value guidance establishes a framework for using fair value to measure assets and liabilities and defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) as opposed to the price that would be paid to acquire the asset or received to assume the liability (an entry price). A fair value measure should reflect the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including the assumptions about the risk inherent in a particular valuation technique, the effect of a restriction on the sale or use of an asset and the risk of nonperformance. Required disclosures include stratification of balance sheet amounts measured at fair value based on inputs the Company uses to derive fair value measurements. These strata include:

 

   

Level 1 valuations, where the valuation is based on quoted market prices for identical assets or liabilities traded in active markets (which include exchanges and over-the-counter markets with sufficient volume),

 

   

Level 2 valuations, where the valuation is based on quoted market prices for similar instruments traded in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market, and

 

   

Level 3 valuations, where the valuation is generated from model-based techniques that use significant assumptions not observable in the market, but observable based on Company-specific data. These unobservable assumptions reflect the Company’s own estimates for assumptions that market

 

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participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Valuation techniques typically include option pricing models, discounted cash flow models and similar techniques, but may also include the use of market prices of assets or liabilities that are not directly comparable to the subject asset or liability.

ITEMS MEASURED AT FAIR VALUE ON A RECURRING BASIS

Trading account assets, securities available for sale, certain mortgage loans held for sale, mortgage servicing rights, derivative assets, trading account liabilities and derivative liabilities were recorded at fair value on a recurring basis during 2010 and 2009. Below is a description of valuation methodologies for these assets and liabilities.

Trading account assets and liabilities and securities available for sale consist of U.S. Treasuries, obligations of states and political subdivisions, mortgage-backed securities (including agency securities), other securities and equity securities.

 

   

U.S. Treasuries are valued based on quoted market prices of identical assets on active exchanges (Level 1 measurements as described above) and also using data from third-party pricing services for similar securities as applicable. Pricing from these third party services is generally based on quoted market prices of similar instruments (including matrix pricing); these valuations are Level 2 measurements.

 

   

Mortgage-backed securities are valued primarily using data from third-party pricing services for similar securities as applicable. Pricing from these third party services is generally based on quoted market prices of similar instruments (including matrix pricing); these valuations are Level 2 measurements. Where such comparable data is not available, the Company develops valuations based on assumptions that are not readily observable in the market place; these valuations are Level 3 measurements.

 

   

Obligations of states and political subdivisions are generally based on data from third party pricing services for similar securities (Level 2 measurements as described above). Where such comparable data is not available, the Company develops valuations based on assumptions that are not readily observable in the market place; these valuations are Level 3 measurements. For example, auction-rate securities fall into this category; for these instruments, internal pricing models assume converting the securities into fixed-rate debt securities with similar credit ratings and maturity dates based on management’s estimates of the term of the securities. Assumed terms generally fall within a range of one to four years.

 

   

Other securities are valued based on Level 1, 2 and 3 measurements, depending on pricing methodology selected.

 

   

Equity securities are valued based on quoted market prices of identical assets on active exchanges; these valuations are Level 1 measurements.

Mortgage loans held for sale consist of residential first mortgage loans held for sale that are valued based on traded market prices of similar assets where available and/or discounted cash flows at market interest rates, adjusted for securitization activities that include servicing value and market conditions, a Level 2 measurement. Regions has elected to measure certain mortgage loans held for sale at fair value by applying the fair value option (see additional discussion under the “Fair Value Option” section below).

Mortgage servicing rights consist of residential mortgage servicing rights and are valued using an option-adjusted spread valuation approach, a Level 3 measurement. See Note 6 for information regarding the servicing of financial assets and additional details regarding the assumptions relevant to this valuation.

Derivative assets and liabilities, which primarily consist of interest rate contracts that include futures, options and swaps, are included in other assets and other liabilities (as applicable) on the consolidated balance sheets, and are presented in the 2009 table below as a net amount. Interest rate swaps are predominantly traded in over-the-counter markets and, as such, values are determined using widely accepted discounted cash flow models, or Level 2 measurements. These discounted cash flow models use projections of future cash payments/receipts that are discounted at mid-market rates. The assumed cash flows are sourced from an assumed yield

 

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curve, which is consistent with industry standards and conventions. These valuations are adjusted for the unsecured credit risk at the reporting date, which considers collateral posted and the impact of master netting agreements. For options and futures contracts traded in over-the-counter markets, values are determined using discounted cash flow analyses and option pricing models based on market rates and volatilities, or Level 2 measurements. Interest rate lock commitments on loans intended for sale, treasury locks and credit derivatives are valued using option pricing models that incorporate significant unobservable inputs, and therefore are Level 3 measurements.

Regions rarely transfers assets and liabilities measured at fair value between Level 1 and Level 2 measurements. There were no such transfers during the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 or 2008. Trading account assets are periodically transferred to or from Level 3 valuation based on management’s conclusion regarding the best method of pricing for an individual security. Such transfers are accounted for as if they occur at the beginning of a reporting period.

 

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New accounting literature effective for 2010 financial reporting required more granular levels of disclosure for fair value measurements. The new guidance did not require any changes to presentation of prior periods. The following tables present assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31:

 

     December 31, 2010  
     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Fair Value  
     (In millions)  

Trading account assets

           

U.S. Treasury securities

   $ 157       $ 14       $ —         $ 171   

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

     —           190         165         355   

Mortgage-backed securities:

              —     

Residential agency

     —           145         —           145   

Residential non-agency

     —           —           —           —     

Commercial agency

     —           —           54         54   

Other securities

     —           58         10         68   

Equity securities

     323         —           —           323   
                                   

Total trading account assets

   $ 480       $ 407       $ 229       $ 1,116   
                                   

Securities available for sale

           

U.S. Treasury securities

   $ 91       $ —         $ —         $ 91   

Federal agency securities

     —           16         —           16   

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

     —           13         17         30   

Mortgage-backed securities:

           

Residential agency

     —           21,845         —           21,845   

Residential non-agency

     —           —           22         22   

Commercial agency

     —           112         —           112   

Commercial non-agency

     —           100         —           100   

Other debt securities

     —           25         —           25   

Equity securities(1)

     158         —           —           158   
                                   

Total securities available for sale

   $ 249       $ 22,111       $ 39       $ 22,399   
                                   

Mortgage loans held for sale

   $ —         $ 1,174       $ —         $ 1,174   
                                   

Mortgage servicing rights

   $ —         $ —         $ 267       $ 267   
                                   

Derivative assets

           

Interest rate swaps

   $ —         $ 2,047       $ —         $ 2,047   

Interest rate options

     —           39         6         45   

Interest rate futures and forward commitments

     —           29         6         35   

Other contracts

     —           21         —           21   
                                   

Total derivative assets(2)

   $ —         $ 2,136       $ 12       $ 2,148   
                                   

Trading account liabilities

           

U.S. Treasury securities

   $ —         $ 95       $ —         $ 95   

Mortgage-backed securities:

           

Residential agency

     —           46         —           46   

Commercial agency

     —           —           6         6   

Other securities

     —           23         4         27   
                                   
   $ —         $ 164       $ 10       $ 174   
                                   

Derivative liabilities

           

Interest rate swaps

   $ —         $ 1,950       $ —         $ 1,950   

Interest rate options

     —           26         3         29   

Interest rate futures and forward commitments

     —           9         1         10   

Other contracts

     —           19         —           19   
                                   

Total derivative liabilities(2)

   $ —         $ 2,004       $ 4       $ 2,008   
                                   

 

(1) Excludes Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank Stock totaling $471 million and $419 million, respectively, which are accounted for at amortized cost.
(2) Derivatives include approximately $1.0 billion related to legally enforceable master netting agreements that allow the Company to settle positive and negative positions. Derivatives, net are also presented excluding cash collateral received of $11 million and cash collateral posted of $810 million with counterparties.

 

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     December 31, 2009  
     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Fair Value  
     (In millions)  

Trading account assets, net

   $   419       $   2,140       $     214       $ 2,773   

Securities available for sale(1)

     184         22,867         53           23,104   

Mortgage loans held for sale

     —           780         —           780   

Mortgage servicing rights(2)

     —           —           247         247   

Derivatives, net(3)

     —           517         3         520   

 

(1) Excludes Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank Stock totaling $492 million and $473 million, respectively, which are accounted for at amortized cost.
(2) Beginning in 2009, the Company made an election to prospectively change the policy of accounting for mortgage servicing rights to the fair value method. Prior to this date, mortgage servicing rights were accounted for under the amortization method and adjusted to the lower of aggregate cost or estimated fair value as appropriate.
(3) Derivatives include approximately $966 million related to legally enforceable master netting agreements that allow the Company to settle positive and negative positions. Derivatives, net are also presented excluding cash collateral received of $70 million and cash collateral posted of $336 million with counterparties.

Assets and liabilities in all levels could result in volatile and material price fluctuations. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on Level 3 assets represent only a portion of the risk to market fluctuations in Regions’ consolidated balance sheets. Further, trading account assets, net and derivatives included in Levels 1, 2 and 3 are used by the Asset and Liability Management Committee of the Company in a holistic approach to managing price fluctuation risks.

The following tables illustrate a rollforward for all assets and (liabilities) measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008. The tables do not reflect the change in fair value attributable to any related economic hedges the Company used to mitigate the interest rate risk associated with these assets and (liabilities).

 

    Year Ended December 31, 2010  
    Trading account assets(1)     Securities available for sale           Trading account liabilities     Derivatives, net  
    Obligations
of states
and
political
subdivi-
sions
    Commercial
agency
MBS
    Other
securities
    Obligations
of states and
political
subdivi-
sions
    Residential
non-agency
MBS
    Mortgage
servicing
rights
    Commercial
agency
MBS
    Other
securities
    Interest
rate
options
    Interest
rate
futures
and
forward
commitm-
ents
 
    (In millions)  

Beginning balance, January 1, 2010

  $ 171      $ 40      $ 4      $ 17      $ 36      $ 247      $ 1      $ —        $ —        $ 3   

Total gains (losses) realized and unrealized:

                   

Included in earnings(1)

    (6     2        27        —          —          (61     —          —          108        —     

Included in other comprehensive income

    —          —          —          7        —          —          —          —          —          —     

Purchases and issuances

    198        737        12,344        —          —          81        5        36        —          2   

Settlements

    (198     (735     (12,382     (7     (14     —          —          (43     (105     —     

Transfers in and/or out of Level 3, net

    —          10        17        —          —          —          —          11        —          —     
                                                                               

Ending balance, December 31, 2010

  $ 165      $ 54      $ 10      $ 17      $ 22      $ 267      $ 6      $ 4      $ 3      $ 5   
                                                                               

 

(1) Brokerage income from trading account assets primarily represents gains/(losses) on disposition, which inherently includes commissions on security transactions during the period.

 

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     Year Ended December 31, 2009  
     Trading
account
assets, net(1)
    Securities
available for
sale
    Mortgage
servicing
rights
    Derivatives, net  
     (In millions)  

Beginning balance, January 1, 2009

   $ 275      $ 95      $ 161      $ 55   

Total gains (losses) realized and unrealized:

        

Included in earnings(1)

     (9     (13     (15     51   

Included in other comprehensive income

     —          3        —          —     

Purchases and issuances

     40        —          101        —     

Settlements

     (96     (32     —          (103

Transfers in and/or out of Level 3, net

     4        —          —          —     
                                

Ending balance, December 31, 2009

   $ 214      $ 53      $ 247      $ 3   
                                

 

(1) Brokerage income from trading account assets, net, primarily represents gains/(losses) on disposition, which inherently includes commissions on security transactions during the period.

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2008  
     Trading
account
assets, net(1)
    Securities
available for
sale
    Derivatives, net  
     (In millions)  

Beginning balance, January 1, 2008

   $ 109      $ 73      $ 8   

Total gains (losses) realized and unrealized:

      

Included in earnings

     4        (5     81   

Included in other comprehensive income

     —          (3     —     

Purchases and issuances

     1,230        49        1   

Settlements

     (1,089     (24     (35

Transfers in and/or out of Level 3, net

     21        5        —     
                        

Ending balance, December 31, 2008

   $ 275      $ 95      $ 55   
                        

 

(1) Brokerage income from trading account assets, net, primarily represents gains/(losses) on disposition, which inherently includes commissions on security transactions during the period.

 

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The following tables detail the presentation of both realized and unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for Level 3 assets for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008:

 

     Total Gains and Losses
Year Ended December 31, 2010
 
     Trading account assets(1)      Securities
available for
sale
           Derivatives, net  
     Obligations of
states and
political
subdivisions
    Commercial
agency
MBS
     Other
securities
     Obligations of
states and
political
subdivisions
     Mortgage
servicing
rights
    Interest
rate
options
 
     (In millions)  

Classifications of gains (losses) both realized and unrealized included in earnings for the period:

               

Brokerage, investment banking and capital markets

   $ (6   $ 2       $ 27       $ —         $ —        $ —     

Mortgage income

     —          —           —           —           (61     108   

Other income

     —          —           —           —           —          —     

Other comprehensive income

     —          —           —           7         —          —     
                                                   

Total realized and unrealized gains and (losses)

   $ (6   $ 2       $ 27       $ 7       $ (61   $ 108   
                                                   

 

(1) Brokerage income from trading account assets primarily represents gains/(losses) on disposition, which inherently includes commissions on security transactions during the period.

 

     Total Gains and Losses
Year Ended December 31, 2009
 
     Trading
account
assets, net(1)
    Securities
available
for sale
    Mortgage
servicing
rights
    Derivatives,
net
 
     (In millions)  

Classifications of gains (losses) both realized and unrealized included in earnings for the period:

        

Brokerage, investment banking and capital markets

   $ (9   $ —        $ —        $ (34

Mortgage income

     —          —          (15     85   

Other income

     —          (13     —          —     

Other comprehensive income

     —          3        —          —     
                                

Total realized and unrealized gains and (losses)

   $ (9   $ (10   $ (15   $ 51   
                                

 

(1) Brokerage income from trading account assets, net, primarily represents gains/(losses) on disposition, which inherently includes commissions on security transactions during the period.

 

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     Total Gains and Losses
Year Ended December 31, 2008
 
     Trading
account
assets, net(1)
     Securities
available
for sale
    Derivatives,
net
 
     (In millions)  

Classifications of gains (losses) both realized and unrealized included in earnings for the period:

       

Interest income

   $ 1       $ —        $ —     

Brokerage, investment banking and capital markets

     3         —          —     

Mortgage income

     —           —          44   

Other income

     —           (5     37   

Other comprehensive income

     —           (3     —     
                         

Total realized and unrealized gains and (losses)

   $ 4       $ (8   $ 81   
                         

 

(1) Brokerage income from trading account assets, net, primarily represents gains/(losses) on dispositions, which inherently includes commissions on security transactions during the period.

The following tables detail the presentation of only unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for Level 3 assets and liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008.

 

     Total Unrealized Gains and Losses
Year Ended December 31, 2010
 
     Securities
available for sale
          Derivatives,
net
 
     Obligations of
states and
political
subdivisions
    Mortgage
servicing
rights
    Interest
rate
options
 
           (In millions)        

The amount of total gains and losses for the period included in earnings, attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at December 31, 2010:

      

Brokerage, investment banking and capital markets

   $ —        $ —        $ —     

Mortgage income

     —          (32     3   

Other income

     —          —          —     

Other comprehensive income

     7        —          —     
                        

Total unrealized gains and (losses)

   $ 7      $ (32   $ 3   
                        
     Total Unrealized Gains and Losses
Year Ended December 31, 2009
 
     Securities
available
for sale
    Mortgage
servicing
rights
    Derivatives,
net
 
     (In millions)  

The amount of total gains and losses for the period included in earnings, attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at December 31, 2009:

      

Brokerage, investment banking and capital markets

   $ —        $ —        $ (5

Mortgage income

     —          19        85   

Other income

     (15     —          —     

Other comprehensive income

     3        —          —     
                        

Total unrealized gains and (losses)

   $ (12   $ 19      $ 80   
                        

 

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     Total Unrealized Gains and Losses
Year Ended December 31, 2008
 
     Securities
Available
for Sale
    Derivatives,
net
 
     (In millions)  

The amount of total gains and losses for the period included in earnings, attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at December 31, 2008:

    

Interest income

   $ —        $ —     

Brokerage, investment banking and capital markets

     —          —     

Mortgage income

     —          —     

Other income

     —          37   

Other comprehensive income

     (3     —     
                

Total unrealized gains and (losses)

   $ (3   $ 37   
                

ITEMS MEASURED AT FAIR VALUE ON A NON-RECURRING BASIS

From time to time, certain assets may be recorded at fair value on a non-recurring basis. These non-recurring fair value adjustments typically are a result of the application of lower of cost or fair value accounting or a write-down occurring during the period. For example, if the fair value of an asset in these categories falls below its cost basis, it is considered to be at fair value at the end of the period of the adjustment. In periods where there is no adjustment, the asset is generally not considered to be at fair value. The following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for certain assets that are recorded at fair value.

Foreclosed property and other real estate is carried in other assets at the lower of the recorded investment in the loan or fair value less estimated costs to sell the property. The fair value for foreclosed property that is based on either observable transactions of similar instruments or formally committed sale prices is classified as a Level 2 measurement. If no formally committed sale price is available, a professional valuation is obtained. Updated valuations are obtained on at least an annual basis. Foreclosed property exceeding established dollar thresholds is valued based on appraisals. Appraisals are performed by third-parties with appropriate professional certifications and conform to generally accepted appraisal standards as evidenced by the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (“USPAP”). Regions’ policies related to appraisals conform with regulations established by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act of 1989 (“FIRREA”) and other regulatory guidance. Professional valuations are considered Level 2 measurements because they are based largely on observable inputs. In some instances, management may decrease the estimate of fair value below the appraised value, given trends in valuation of similar properties. These valuations are considered Level 3 measurements as management uses assumptions not observable in the market.

Loans held for sale for which the fair value option has not been elected are recorded at the lower of cost or fair value and therefore are reported at fair value on a non-recurring basis. The fair values for loans held for sale that are based on formally committed loan sale prices or valuations performed using observable inputs are classified as a Level 2 measurement. If no formally committed sales price is available, a professional valuation is obtained, consistent with the process described above for foreclosed property and real estate.

 

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The following tables present the carrying value of those assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, as well as the corresponding fair value adjustments.

 

     Carrying Value as of
December 31, 2010
     Fair value
adjustments for
the year ended

December 31, 2010
 
      Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total     
     (In millions)  

Loans held for sale

   $ —         $ 238       $ 31       $ 269       $ (98

Foreclosed property and other real estate

     —           201         152         353         (51
     Carrying Value as of
December 31, 2009
     Fair value
adjustments for
the year ended

December 31, 2009
 
      Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total     
     (In millions)  

Loans held for sale

   $ —         $ 86       $ 17       $ 103       $ (54

Foreclosed property and other real estate

     —           362         —           362         (59

FAIR VALUE OPTION

Regions elected the fair value option for FNMA or FHLMC eligible thirty-year residential mortgage loans held for sale originated on or after January 1, 2008. Additionally, Regions elected the fair value option for FNMA or FHLMC eligible fifteen-year residential mortgage loans originated on or after November 22, 2010. These elections allow for a more effective offset of the changes in fair values of the loans and the derivative instruments used to economically hedge them without the burden of complying with the requirements for hedge accounting. Regions has not elected the fair value option for other loans held for sale primarily because they are not economically hedged using derivative instruments. Fair values of mortgage loans held for sale are based on traded market prices of similar assets where available and/or discounted cash flows at market interest rates, adjusted for securitization activities that include servicing values and market conditions, and were recorded in loans held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets.

The following table summarizes the difference between the aggregate fair value and the aggregate unpaid principal balance for mortgage loans held for sale measured at fair value:

 

     December 31, 2010     December 31, 2009  
     Aggregate
Fair Value
     Aggregate
Unpaid
Principal
     Aggregate Fair
Value Less
Aggregate
Unpaid
Principal
    Aggregate
Fair Value
     Aggregate
Unpaid
Principal
     Aggregate Fair
Value Less

Aggregate
Unpaid
Principal
 
     (In millions)  

Mortgage loans held for sale, at fair value

   $ 1,174       $ 1,181       $ (7   $ 780       $ 773       $ 7   

Interest income on mortgage loans held for sale is recognized based on contractual rates and is reflected in interest income on loans held for sale in the consolidated statements of operations. The following table details net gains (losses) resulting from changes in fair value of these loans which were recorded in mortgage income in the consolidated statements of operations during the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009. These changes in fair value are mostly offset by economic hedging activities. An immaterial portion of these amounts was attributable to changes in instrument-specific credit risk.

 

     Mortgage loans held for sale, at fair value  
     2010     2009  
     (In millions)  

Net gains (losses) resulting from changes in fair value

   $ (14   $ 7   

 

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FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating fair values of financial instruments that are not disclosed above:

Cash and cash equivalents: The carrying amounts reported in the consolidated balance sheets and cash flows approximate the estimated fair values.

Securities held to maturity: Estimated fair values are based on quoted market prices, where available. If quoted market prices are not available, estimated fair values are based on quoted market prices of comparable instruments and/or discounted cash flow analyses.

Loans, net: The fair values of loans, excluding leases, are estimated based on groupings of similar loans by type, interest rate, and borrower creditworthiness. Discounted future cash flow analyses are performed for the groupings incorporating assumptions of current and projected prepayment speeds. Discount rates are determined using the Company’s current origination rates on similar loans, adjusted for changes in current liquidity and credit spreads (if necessary) observed in market pricing.

Other interest-earning assets: The carrying amounts reported in the consolidated balance sheets approximate the estimated fair values.

Deposits: The fair value of non-interest-bearing demand accounts, interest-bearing transaction accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts and certain other time deposit accounts is the amount payable on demand at the reporting date (i.e., the carrying amount). Fair values for certificates of deposit are estimated by using discounted cash flow analyses, based on market spreads to benchmark rates.

Short-term and long-term borrowings: The carrying amounts of short-term borrowings reported in the consolidated balance sheets approximate the estimated fair values. The fair values of long-term borrowings are estimated using quoted market prices. If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are estimated using discounted future cash flow analyses based on current interest rates, liquidity and credit spreads.

Loan commitments and letters of credit: The estimated fair values for these off-balance sheet instruments are based on probabilities of funding to project expected future cash flows, which are discounted using the loan methodology described above. The premium/discounts are adjusted for the time value of money over the average remaining life of the commitments and the opportunity cost associated with regulatory requirements.

 

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The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments as of December 31 are as follows:

 

     December 31, 2010      December 31, 2009  
     Carrying
Amount
     Estimated
Fair
Value(1)
     Carrying
Amount
     Estimated
Fair
Value(1)
 
     (In millions)  

Financial assets:

           

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 6,919       $ 6,919       $ 8,011       $ 8,011   

Trading account assets

     1,116         1,116         3,039         3,039   

Securities available for sale

     23,289         23,289         24,069         24,069   

Securities held to maturity

     24         26         31         31   

Loans held for sale

     1,485         1,485         1,511         1,511   

Loans (excluding leases), net of unearned income and allowance for loan losses(2), (3)

     77,864         69,775         85,452         72,119   

Other interest-earning assets

     1,219         1,219         734         734   

Derivatives, net

     140         140         520         520   

Financial liabilities:

           

Deposits

     94,614         94,883         98,680         99,168   

Short-term borrowings

     3,937         3,937         3,668         3,668   

Long-term borrowings

     13,190         13,115         18,464         17,710   

Loan commitments and letters of credit

     125         899         194         1,014   

 

(1) Estimated fair values are consistent with an exit price concept. The assumptions used to estimate the fair values are intended to approximate those that a market participant would use in a hypothetical orderly transaction. In estimating fair value, the Company makes adjustments for interest rates, market liquidity and credit spreads as appropriate.

 

(2) The estimated fair value of portfolio loans assumes sale of the loans to a third-party financial investor. Accordingly, the value to the Company if the loans were held to maturity is not reflected in the fair value estimate. In the current whole loan market, financial investors are generally requiring a higher rate of return than the return inherent in loans if held to maturity. The fair value discount at December 31, 2010 was $8.1 billion or 10.4 percent.

 

(3) Excluded from this table is the lease carrying amount of $1.8 billion at December 31, 2010 and $2.1 billion at December 31, 2009.

NOTE 22. BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION

Regions’ segment information is presented based on Regions’ key segments of business. Each segment is a strategic business unit that serves specific needs of Regions’ customers. The Company’s primary segment is Banking/Treasury, which represents the Company’s branch network, including consumer and commercial banking functions, and has separate management that is responsible for the operation of that business unit. This segment also includes the Company’s Treasury function, including the Company’s securities portfolio and other wholesale funding activities.

In addition to Banking/Treasury, Regions has designated as distinct reportable segments the activity of its Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust and Insurance divisions. Investment Banking/Brokerage/Trust includes trust activities and all brokerage and investment activities associated with Morgan Keegan. Insurance includes all business associated with commercial insurance and credit life products sold to consumer customers.

During 2010, minor reclassifications were made from the Banking/Treasury segment to the Insurance segment to more appropriately present management’s current view of the segments. The 2009 and 2008 amounts presented below have been adjusted to conform to the 2010 presentation.

 

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The reportable segment designated Merger Charges and Discontinued Operations includes merger charges related to the AmSouth acquisition and the results of EquiFirst for 2008. These amounts are excluded from other reportable segments because management reviews the results of the other reportable segments excluding these items.

The following tables present financial information for each reportable segment for the years ended December 31:

 

      December 31, 2010  
     Banking/
Treasury
    Investment
Banking/
Brokerage/
Trust
    Insurance      Merger
Charges and
Discontinued
Operations
    Total
Company
 
     (In millions)  

Net interest income

   $ 3,364      $ 66      $ 2       $ —        $ 3,432   

Provision for loan losses

     2,863        —          —           —          2,863   

Non-interest income

     2,184        1,241        106         —          3,531   

Non-interest expense

     3,536        1,158        91         —          4,785   

Regulatory charge

     —          200        —           —          200   

Income tax (benefit) expense

     (418     65        7         —          (346
                                         

Net income (loss)

   $ (433   $ (116   $ 10       $ —        $ (539
                                         

Average assets

   $ 129,639      $ 5,805      $ 511       $ —        $ 135,955   
      December 31, 2009  
     Banking/
Treasury
    Investment
Banking/
Brokerage/
Trust
    Insurance      Merger
Charges and
Discontinued
Operations
    Total
Company
 
     (In millions)  

Net interest income

   $ 3,273      $ 59      $ 3       $ —        $ 3,335   

Provision for loan losses

     3,541        —          —           —          3,541   

Non-interest income

     2,439        1,207        109         —          3,755   

Non-interest expense

     3,537        1,122        92         —          4,751   

Income tax (benefit) expense

     (232     53        8         —          (171
                                         

Net income (loss)

   $ (1,134   $ 91      $ 12       $ —        $ (1,031
                                         

Average assets

   $ 137,679      $ 4,586      $ 494       $ —        $ 142,759   
      December 31, 2008  
     Banking/
Treasury
    Investment
Banking/
Brokerage/
Trust
    Insurance      Merger
Charges and
Discontinued
Operations
    Total
Company
 
     (In millions)  

Net interest income

   $ 3,765      $ 74      $ 4       $ —        $ 3,843   

Provision for loan losses

     2,057        —          —           —          2,057   

Non-interest income

     1,776        1,183        114         —          3,073   

Goodwill impairment

     6,000        —          —           —          6,000   

Non-interest expense

     3,444        1,055        92         219        4,810   

Income tax (benefit) expense

     (355     74        9         (83     (355
                                         

Net income (loss)

   $ (5,605   $ 128      $ 17       $ (136   $ (5,596
                                         

Average assets

   $ 139,981      $ 3,623      $ 343       $ —        $ 143,947   

 

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NOTE 23. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES

COMMERCIAL COMMITMENTS

Regions issues off-balance sheet financial instruments in connection with lending activities. The credit risk associated with these instruments is essentially the same as that involved in extending loans to customers and is subject to Regions’ normal credit approval policies and procedures. Regions measures inherent risk associated with these instruments by recording a reserve for unfunded commitments based on an assessment of the likelihood that the guarantee will be funded and the creditworthiness of the customer or counterparty. Collateral is obtained based on management’s assessment of the creditworthiness of the customer.

Credit risk associated with these instruments as of December 31 is based upon the contractual amounts indicated in the following table:

 

     2010      2009  
     (In millions)  

Unused commitments to extend credit

   $ 30,828       $ 31,008   

Standby letters of credit

     3,014         4,610   

Commercial letters of credit

     49         30   

Liabilities associated with standby letters of credit

     54         119   

Assets associated with standby letters of credit

     51         114   

Reserve for unfunded credit commitments

     71         74   

Unused commitments to extend credit—To accommodate the financial needs of its customers, Regions makes commitments under various terms to lend funds to consumers, businesses and other entities. These commitments include (among others) revolving credit agreements, term loan commitments and short-term borrowing agreements. Many of these loan commitments have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since many of these commitments are expected to expire without being funded, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future liquidity requirements.

Standby letters of credit—Standby letters of credit are also issued to customers, which commit Regions to make payments on behalf of customers if certain specified future events occur. Regions has recourse against the customer for any amount required to be paid to a third party under a standby letter of credit. Historically, a large percentage of standby letters of credit expired without being funded. The contractual amount of standby letters of credit represents the maximum potential amount of future payments Regions could be required to make and represents Regions’ maximum credit risk.

Commercial letters of credit—Commercial letters of credit are issued to facilitate foreign or domestic trade transactions for customers. As a general rule, drafts will be drawn when the goods underlying the transaction are in transit.

LEASES

Regions and its subsidiaries lease land, premises and equipment under cancelable and non-cancelable leases, some of which contain renewal options under various terms. The leased properties are used primarily for banking purposes. Total rental expense on operating leases for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 was $203 million, $213 million and $194 million, respectively.

 

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The approximate future minimum rental commitments as of December 31, 2010, for all non-cancelable leases with initial or remaining terms of one year or more are shown in the following table. Included in these amounts are all renewal options reasonably assured of being exercised.

 

     Premises      Equipment      Total  
     (In millions)  

2011

   $ 129       $ 21       $ 150   

2012

     122         18         140   

2013

     112         4         116   

2014

     101         1         102   

2015

     93         —           93   

Thereafter

     515         —           515   
                          
   $ 1,072       $ 44       $ 1,116   
                          

LEGAL

Regions and its affiliates are subject to litigation, including the litigation discussed below, and claims arising in the ordinary course of business. Punitive damages are routinely claimed in these cases. Regions continues to be concerned about the general trend in litigation involving large damage awards against financial service company defendants. Regions evaluates these contingencies based on information currently available, including advice of counsel and assessment of available insurance coverage. Although it is not possible to predict the ultimate resolution or financial liability with respect to these litigation contingencies, management is currently of the opinion that the outcome of pending and threatened litigation would not have a material effect on Regions’ consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows, except to the extent indicated in the discussion below.

Beginning in 2007, Regions and certain of its affiliates have been named in class-action lawsuits filed in federal and state courts on behalf of investors who purchased shares of certain Regions Morgan Keegan Select Funds (the “Funds”) and shareholders of Regions. The Funds were formerly managed by Morgan Asset Management, Inc. Morgan Asset Management, Inc. no longer manages these Funds, which were transferred to Hyperion Brookfield Asset Management in 2008. Certain of the Funds have since been terminated by Hyperion. The complaints contain various allegations, including claims that the Funds and the defendants misrepresented or failed to disclose material facts relating to the activities of the Funds. Plaintiffs have requested equitable relief and unspecified monetary damages. These class-action lawsuits are still early in their development and no classes have been certified. Unless and until a class is certified, the scope of the class and claims remains unknown. There are numerous factors that result in a greater degree of complexity in class-action lawsuits as compared to other types of litigation. Due to the many intricacies involved in class-action lawsuits at the early stages of these matters, obtaining clarity on a reasonable estimate is difficult which may call into question its reliability. At this stage of the lawsuits, and in view of the inherent inability to predict the outcome of litigation, particularly where there are many claimants, Regions cannot determine the probability of a material adverse result or reasonably estimate a range of potential exposures, if any. However, in light of the inherent uncertainties involved in these matters, it is reasonably possible that an adverse outcome in any of these matters could be material to Regions’ business, consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows for any particular reporting period.

Certain of the shareholders in these Funds and other interested parties have entered into arbitration proceedings and individual civil claims, in lieu of participating in the class-actions, and primarily seek monetary damages. Although it is not possible to predict the ultimate resolution or financial liability with respect to these contingencies, management is currently of the opinion that the outcome of these proceedings would not have a material effect on Regions’ business, consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

On April 7, 2010, the SEC, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) and a joint state task force of securities regulators from Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, and South Carolina (“Task Force”)

 

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announced that they were commencing administrative proceedings against Morgan Keegan, Morgan Asset Management and certain of their employees for violations of federal and state securities laws and NASD rules relating to the Funds. The proceedings contain various allegations, including that the net asset values of the Funds were artificially inflated due to allegedly improper conduct related to the valuation of the securities held by the Funds, and that the defendants failed to disclose certain risks associated with the Funds. The administrative proceedings seek civil penalties, injunctive relief, disgorgement, rescission and other relief. Based on the then current status of settlement negotiations, Regions believed that a loss on this matter was probable and reasonably estimable. Accordingly, during the quarter ended June 30, 2010, Morgan Keegan recorded a non-tax deductible $200 million charge representing the estimate of probable loss. Settlement negotiations and hearing preparations are ongoing.

On July 21, 2009, the SEC filed a complaint in United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia against Morgan Keegan alleging violations of the federal securities laws in connection with auction rate securities (“ARS”) that Morgan Keegan underwrote, marketed and sold. The SEC is seeking an injunction against Morgan Keegan for violations of the antifraud provisions of the federal securities laws, as well as disgorgement, financial penalties and other equitable relief for customers, including repurchase by Morgan Keegan of all ARS that it sold prior to March 20, 2008. Beginning in February 2009, Morgan Keegan commenced a voluntary program to repurchase ARS that it underwrote and sold to the firm’s customers, and extended that repurchase program on October 1, 2009 to include certain ARS that were sold by Morgan Keegan to its customers but were underwritten by other firms. As of December 31, 2010, customers of Morgan Keegan owned approximately $54 million of ARS and Morgan Keegan held approximately $161 million of ARS on its balance sheet. On July 21, 2009, the Alabama Securities Commission issued a “Show Cause” order to Morgan Keegan arising out of the ARS matter that is the subject of the SEC complaint described above. The order requires Morgan Keegan to show cause why its registration as a broker-dealer should not be suspended or revoked in the State of Alabama and also why it should not be subject to disgorgement, repurchasing all ARS sold to Alabama residents and payment of costs and penalties. Although it is not possible to predict the ultimate resolution or financial liability with respect to the ARS matter, management is currently of the opinion that the outcome of this matter will not have a material effect on Regions’ business, consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In April 2009, Regions, Regions Financing Trust III (the “Trust”) and certain of Regions’ current and former directors, were named in a purported class-action lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York on behalf of the purchasers of trust preferred securities offered by the Trust. The complaint alleges that defendants made statements in Regions’ registration statement, prospectus and year-end filings which were materially false and misleading. On May 10, 2010, the trial court dismissed all claims against all defendants in this case. However, the plaintiffs have appealed the decision. In October 2010, a separate purported class-action lawsuit was filed by Regions’ stockholders in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama against Regions and certain former officers of Regions. The lawsuit alleges violations of the federal securities laws based on alleged actions similar to those that were the basis for the suit filed by purchasers of the trust preferred securities, including allegations that statements that were materially false and misleading were included in filings made with the SEC. Plaintiffs in these cases have requested equitable relief and unspecified monetary damages. These class-action lawsuits are still early in their development and no classes have been certified. Unless and until a class is certified, the scope of the class and claims remains unknown. There are numerous factors that result in a greater degree of complexity in class-action lawsuits as compared to other types of litigation. Due to the many intricacies involved in class-action lawsuits at the early stages of these matters, obtaining clarity on a reasonable estimate is difficult which may call into question its reliability. At this stage of the lawsuits, and in view of the inherent inability to predict the outcome of litigation, particularly where there are many claimants, Regions cannot determine the probability of a material adverse result or reasonably estimate a range of potential exposures, if any. Although it is not possible to predict the ultimate resolution or financial liability with respect to these matters, management is currently of the opinion that the outcome of these matters will not have a material effect on Regions’ business, consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

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In December 2009 and in November 2010, Regions and certain current and former directors and officers were named in a consolidated shareholder derivative action and in a separate derivative action, both of which were filed in Jefferson County, Alabama. The complaints allege mismanagement, waste of corporate assets, breach of fiduciary duty and unjust enrichment relating to bonuses and other benefits received by executive management. Plaintiffs in these cases have requested equitable relief and unspecified monetary damages. Although it is not possible to predict the ultimate resolution or financial liability with respect to these matters, management is currently of the opinion that the outcome of these matters will not have a material effect on Regions’ business, consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In September 2009, Regions was named as a defendant in a purported class-action lawsuit filed by customers of Regions Bank in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia challenging the manner in which non-sufficient funds (“NSF”) and overdraft fees were charged and the policies related to posting order. The case was transferred to multidistrict litigation in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, and in May 2010 an order to compel arbitration was denied. In July 2010, a separate class-action was filed in the Circuit Court of Greene County Missouri, making a claim under Missouri’s consumer protection statute. The case has been removed to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri. Plaintiffs in these cases have requested equitable relief and unspecified monetary damages. These class-action lawsuits are still early in their development and no classes have been certified. Unless and until a class is certified, the scope of the class and claims remains unknown. There are numerous factors that result in a greater degree of complexity in class-action lawsuits as compared to other types of litigation. Due to the many intricacies involved in class-action lawsuits at the early stages of these matters, obtaining clarity on a reasonable estimate is difficult which may call into question its reliability. At this stage of the lawsuits, and in view of the inherent inability to predict the outcome of litigation, particularly where there are many claimants, Regions cannot determine the probability of a material adverse result or reasonably estimate a range of potential exposures, if any. However, in light of the inherent uncertainties involved in these matters, it is reasonably possible that an adverse outcome in any of these matters could be material to Regions’ business, consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows for any particular reporting period.

GUARANTEES

As a member of the Visa USA network, Regions, along with other members, indemnified Visa USA against litigation. On October 3, 2007, Visa USA was restructured and acquired several Visa affiliates. In conjunction with this restructuring, Regions’ indemnification of Visa USA was modified to cover specific litigation (“covered litigation”). Regions’ liability recognized under this indemnification was approximately $24 million and $27 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

On March 25, 2008, Visa executed an initial public offering (“IPO”) of common stock and, in connection with the IPO, Regions’ ownership interest in Visa was converted into Class B common stock of approximately 3.8 million shares. In the first quarter of 2008, Visa redeemed approximately 1.5 million shares of the Class B common stock from Regions for proceeds of approximately $63 million, all of which was recorded as “Other Income” in the consolidated statements of operations. In the second quarter of 2009, Regions sold the remaining Class B common stock to a third party. The sale resulted in a pre-tax gain of $80 million.

A portion of Visa’s proceeds from the IPO was escrowed to fund the covered litigation. To the extent that the amount available under the escrow arrangement is insufficient to fully resolve the covered litigation, Visa will enforce the indemnification obligations of Visa USA’s members for any excess amount.

 

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NOTE 24. PARENT COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Presented below are condensed financial statements of Regions Financial Corporation:

Balance Sheets

 

     December 31  
     2010     2009  
     (In millions)  
ASSETS   

Cash and due from banks

   $ —        $ 11   

Interest-bearing deposits in other banks

     3,848        4,050   

Loans to subsidiaries

     36        91   

Securities available for sale

     36        46   

Trading assets

     26        22   

Premises and equipment

     65        69   

Investments in subsidiaries:

    

Banks

     15,719        16,273   

Non-banks

     1,670        1,814   
                
     17,389        18,087   

Other assets

     380        421   
                

Total assets

   $ 21,780      $ 22,797   
                
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY     

Long-term borrowings

   $ 4,907      $ 4,662   

Other liabilities

     139        254   
                

Total liabilities

     5,046        4,916   

Stockholders’ equity:

    

Preferred stock

     3,380        3,602   

Common stock

     13        12   

Additional paid-in capital

     19,050        18,781   

Retained earnings (deficit)

     (4,047     (3,235

Treasury stock

     (1,402     (1,409

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

     (260     130   
                

Total stockholders’ equity

     16,734        17,881   
                

Total liabilitites and stockholders’ equity

   $ 21,780      $ 22,797   
                

 

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Statements of Operations

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2010     2009     2008  
     (In millions)  

Income:

      

Dividends received from subsidiaries

   $ —        $ —        $ 725   

Service fees from subsidiaries

     128        123        183   

Interest from subsidiaries

     24        16        40   

Gain on extinguishment of debt

     —          61        —     

Other

     7        8        11   
                        
     159        208        959   

Expenses:

      

Salaries and employee benefits

     117        133        226   

Interest

     183        162        240   

Net occupancy expense

     9        4        2   

Furniture and equipment expense

     8        7        6   

Legal and other professional fees

     21        14        6   

Other

     50        36        73   
                        
     388        356        553   

Income (loss) before income taxes and equity in undistributed earnings (loss) of subsidiaries

     (229     (148     406   

Income tax benefit

     (93     (31     (127
                        

Income (loss) before equity in undistributed earnings (loss) of subsidiaries and preferred dividends

     (136     (117     533   

Equity in undistributed earnings (loss) of subsidiaries:

      

Banks

     (252     (978     (6,240

Non-banks

     (151     64        111   
                        
     (403     (914     (6,129
                        

Net income (loss)

     (539     (1,031     (5,596

Preferred stock dividends and accretion

     (224     (230     (26
                        

Net income (loss) available to common shareholders

   $ (763   $ (1,261   $ (5,622
                        

 

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Statements of Cash Flows

 

     Years Ended December 31  
     2010     2009     2008  
     (In millions)  

Operating activities:

      

Net income (loss)

   $ (539   $ (1,031   $ (5,596

Adjustments to reconcile net cash provided by operating activities:

      

Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries

     403        914        6,129   

Depreciation, amortization and accretion, net

     (4     (7     (5

(Increase) decrease in trading assets

     (4     (3     18   

Decrease) in other liabilities

     (115     (80     (373

Decrease (increase) in other assets

     40        69        (76

Other

     (369     122        (125
                        

Net cash from operating activities

     (588     (16     (28

Investing activities:

      

Investment in subsidiaries

     295        (2,681     306   

Principal payments on loans to subsidiaries

     55        —          —     

Net sales (purchases) of premises and equipment

     4        9        (2

Proceeds from sales and maturities of securities available for sale

     13        23        35   

Purchases of securities available for sale

     (1     (1     (1
                        

Net cash from investing activities

     366        (2,650     338   

Financing activities:

      

Proceeds from long-term borrowings

     743        690        345   

Payments on long-term borrowings

     (501     (493     (751

Net proceeds from issuance of mandatorily convertible preferred stock

     —          278        —     

Net proceeds from issuance of common stock

     —          1,769        —     

Cash dividends on common stock

     (49     (105     (669

Cash dividends on preferred stock

     (184     (194     —     

Issuance of preferred stock and common stock warrant

     —          —          3,500   

Proceeds from stock transactions under compensation plans

     —          14        27   
                        

Net cash from financing activities

     9        1,959        2,452   

(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

     (213     (707     2,762   

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     4,061        4,768        2,006   
                        

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

   $ 3,848      $ 4,061      $ 4,768   
                        

 

 

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Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

Not Applicable.

 

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

Based on an evaluation, as of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K, under the supervision and with the participation of Regions’ management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that Regions’ disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) are effective. During the fourth fiscal quarter of the year ended December 31, 2010, there have been no changes in Regions’ internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, Regions’ control over financial reporting.

The Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting is included in Item 8. of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

Item 9B. Other Information

Not Applicable.

 

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PART III

 

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

Information about the Directors and Director nominees of Regions included in Regions’ Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 19, 2011 (the “Proxy Statement”) under the caption “PROPOSAL 1—ELECTION OF DIRECTORS” and the information incorporated by reference pursuant to Item 13. below are incorporated herein by reference. Information on Regions’ executive officers is included below.

Information regarding Regions’ Audit Committee included under the captions “PROPOSAL 1—ELECTION OF DIRECTORS—The Board of Directors—Audit Committee” and “—Audit Committee Financial Experts” of the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

Information regarding late filings under Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 included in the Proxy Statement under the caption “VOTING SECURITIES AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS THEREOF—Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” is incorporated herein by reference.

Information regarding Regions’ Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers included in the Proxy Statement under the caption “PROPOSAL 1—ELECTION OF DIRECTORS—Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers” is incorporated herein by reference.

Executive officers of the registrant as of December 31, 2010, are as follows:

 

Executive Officer

   Age     

Position and

Offices Held with

Registrant and Subsidiaries

   Executive
Officer
Since*
 

O. B. Grayson Hall, Jr.

     53       President and Chief Executive Officer and Director, registrant and Regions Bank. Previously President and Chief Operating Officer, registrant and Regions Bank, Vice Chairman and Head of General Banking Group, registrant and Regions Bank, Senior Executive Vice President and Head of General Banking Group, registrant and Regions Bank and Senior Executive Vice President and Lines of Business/Operations and Technology Group Head of AmSouth Bancorporation and AmSouth Bank. Director, Morgan Keegan & Company, Inc.      1993   

David B. Edmonds

     57       Chief Administrative Officer and Senior Executive Vice President, registrant and Regions Bank. Previously Head of Human Resources Group, registrant and Regions Bank, and Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Human Resources of AmSouth Bancorporation and AmSouth Bank.      1994   

 

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Executive Officer

   Age     

Position and

Offices Held with

Registrant and Subsidiaries

   Executive
Officer
Since*
 

John B. Owen

     49       Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Consumer Services Group, registrant and Regions Bank. Previously Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Operations and Technology Group, registrant and Regions Bank, and Chief Executive Officer for Assurant Specialty Property. Director and Chairman, Regions Insurance Group, Inc., Regions Insurance, Inc. and Regions Insurance Services, Inc.      2009   

David J. Turner, Jr.

     47       Chief Financial Officer and Senior Executive Vice President, registrant and Regions Bank. Previously Executive Vice President and Director of Internal Audit Division for registrant and AmSouth Bancorporation, and an audit partner at KPMG LLP and Arthur Andersen.      2010   

John C. Asbury

     45       Senior Executive Vice President, Business Services Group, registrant and Regions Bank. Previously served in senior management roles at Bank of America including most recently as the Pacific Northwest region executive and senior vice president of Business Banking.      2010   

John C. Carson, Jr.

     54       Chief Executive Officer, Morgan Keegan & Company, Inc. Previously president of Fixed Income Capital Markets at Morgan Keegan.      2010   

Brett D. Couch

     47       Florida Region President and Senior Executive Vice President, Regions Bank. Previously served in senior management roles at Regions Bank and AmSouth Bank including as Mississippi state president and as area executive for West Florida.      2010   

Barbara Godin

     57       Executive Vice President, Chief Credit Officer and Head of Credit Operations, Regions Bank. Previously served in senior management roles in credit and risk management at Regions Bank and AmSouth Bank.      2010   

C. Keith Herron

     46       Midsouth Region President and Senior Executive Vice President, Regions Bank. Previously served in senior management roles at Regions Bank and AmSouth Bank including as the area executive for North Alabama, for East Tennessee and for Middle Tennessee.      2010   

Ellen S. Jones

     52       Business Operations and Support Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, Regions Bank. Previously held senior level finance leadership positions at Bank of America.      2010   

 

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Executive Officer

   Age     

Position and

Offices Held with

Registrant and Subsidiaries

   Executive
Officer
Since*
 

David R. Keenan

     42       Director of Human Resources and Executive Vice President, registrant and Regions Bank. Previously served in senior management roles in the Human Resources Group at Regions Bank and AmSouth Bank.      2010   

Scott M. Peters

     49       Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Executive Vice President, Regions Bank. Previously served as Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Executive Vice President of AmSouth Bank.      2010   

William D. Ritter

     40       Central Region President and Senior Executive Vice President, Regions Bank. Previously served in senior management roles including as the North Central Alabama area executive at Regions Bank.      2010   

Cynthia M. Rogers

     54       Senior Executive Vice President, Operations and Technology, registrant and Regions Bank. Previously served in senior management roles at Regions Bank and AmSouth Bank including as the head of Bank Operations.      2010   

Ronald G. Smith

     50       Southwest Region President and Senior Executive Vice President, Regions Bank. Previously served in senior management roles at Regions Bank and AmSouth Bank including as the area executive for Mississippi/North Louisiana.      2010   

 

* The years indicated are those in which the individual was first deemed to be an executive officer of registrant, including its predecessor companies.

 

Item 11. Executive Compensation

All information presented under the captions “COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS,” “2010 COMPENSATION,” “COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT,” “PROPOSAL 1—ELECTION OF DIRECTORS—Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” and “—Relationship of Compensation Policies and Practices to Risk Management” of the Proxy Statement are incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

All information presented under the caption “VOTING SECURITIES AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS THEREOF” of the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

 

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Equity Compensation Plan Information

The following table gives information about the common stock that may be issued upon the exercise of options, warrants and rights under all of Regions’ existing equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2010.

 

Plan Category

   Number of Securities to
be Issued Upon
Exercise of
Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights (a)
    Weighted Average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights
     Number of Securities
Remaining Available for
Future Issuance Under  Equity
Compensation Plans
(Excluding Securities
Reflected in First Column)
 

Equity Compensation Plans Approved by Stockholders

     22,433,503      $ 21.54         91,291,656 (b) 

Equity Compensation Plans Not Approved by Stockholders

     32,566,123 (c)    $ 26.38         —     
                   

Total

     54,999,626      $ 24.41         91,291,656   

 

(a) Does not include outstanding restricted stock awards.
(b) Consists of shares available for future issuance under the Regions Financial Corporation 2010 Long Term Incentive Plan. During 2010, all prior long-term incentive plans were closed to new grants.
(c) Consists of outstanding stock options issued under certain plans assumed by Regions in connection with business combinations, including 30,724,320 options issued under plans assumed in connection with the Regions-AmSouth merger, 29,324,634 of which were issued under plans previously approved by AmSouth stockholders but not pre-merger Regions stockholders. In each instance, the number of shares subject to option and the exercise price of outstanding options have been adjusted to reflect the applicable exchange ratio. See Note 16 “Share-Based Payments” to the consolidated financial statements included in Regions’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010. Does not include 221,976 shares issuable pursuant to outstanding rights under AmSouth deferred compensation plans assumed by Regions.

 

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

All information presented under the captions “PROPOSAL 1—ELECTION OF DIRECTORS—Other Transactions,” “—Review, Approval or Ratification of Transactions with Related Persons” and “—Director Independence” of the Proxy Statement are incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services

All information presented under the caption “PROPOSAL 3—RATIFICATION OF SELECTION OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM” of the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

 

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PART IV

 

Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

(a) 1. Consolidated Financial Statements. The following reports of independent registered public accounting firm and consolidated financial statements of Regions and its subsidiaries are included in Item 8. of this Form 10-K:

 

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm;

     115   

Consolidated Balance Sheets—December 31, 2010 and 2009;

     117   

Consolidated Statements of Operations—Years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008;

     118   

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity—Years ended December  31, 2010, 2009 and 2008; and

     119   

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows—Years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008.

     121   

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

     122   

2. Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules. The following consolidated financial statement schedules are included in Item 8. of this Form 10-K:

None. The Schedules to consolidated financial statements are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable.

(b) Exhibits. The exhibits indicated below are either included or incorporated by reference as indicated.

 

SEC Assigned
Exhibit Number

  

Description of Exhibits

  3.1    Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on May 14, 2010.
  3.2    Certificate of Designations incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on November 18, 2008.
  3.4    Bylaws as restated, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on May 14, 2010.
  4.1    Instruments defining the rights of security holders, including indentures. The registrant hereby agrees to furnish to the Commission upon request copies of instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the registrant and its consolidated subsidiaries; no issuance of debt exceeds 10 percent of the assets of the registrant and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.
  4.2    Warrant to purchase up to 48,253,677 shares of Common Stock, issued on November 14, 2008 to the United States Department of Treasury, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on November 18, 2008.
  4.3    Form of stock certificate for the class of Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock Series A, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on November 18, 2008.
10.1*    Regions Financial Corporation 2010 Long Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Appendix B to Regions Financial Corporation’s Proxy Statement dated April 1, 2010, for the Regions Annual Meeting of Shareholders held May 13, 2010.
10.2*    Amendment, effective August 31, 2010, to Regions Financial Corporation 2010 Long Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by registrant on November 3, 2010.

 

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SEC Assigned
Exhibit Number

  

Description of Exhibits

10.3*    Form of director restricted stock grant agreement and award notice under Regions Financial Corporation 2010 Long Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by registrant on August 4, 2010.
10.4*    Form of employee restricted stock grant agreement and award notice under Regions Financial Corporation 2010 Long Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by registrant on August 4, 2010.
10.5*    Form of stock option grant agreement under Regions Financial Corporation 2010 Long Term Incentive Plan
10.6*    AmSouth Bancorporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Appendix C to AmSouth Bancorporation’s Proxy Statement dated March 10, 2006, for the AmSouth Annual Meeting of Shareholders held April 20, 2006, File No. 1-7476.
10.7*    Form of stock option grant agreement under AmSouth Bancorporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on April 30, 2007.
10.8*    Form of restricted stock grant agreement under AmSouth Bancorporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.4 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on April 30, 2007.
10.9*    Form of performance unit agreement under AmSouth Bancorporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan and Regions Financial Corporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.5 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on April 30, 2007.
10.10*    Form of performance-based stock option grant agreement and award notice under AmSouth Bancorporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by registrant on May 11, 2009.
10.11*    Regions Financial Corporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on May 23, 2006.
10.12*    Amendment to Regions Financial Corporation 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by registrant on May 7, 2008.
10.13*    Form of stock option grant agreement under Regions Financial Corporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on April 30, 2007.
10.14*    Form of restricted stock grant agreement under Regions Financial Corporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on April 30, 2007.
10.15*    Form of performance-based stock option grant agreement and award notice under Regions Financial Corporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by registrant on May 11, 2009.
10.16*    Form of performance-based restricted stock agreement and award notice under AmSouth Bancorporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan and Regions Financial Corporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by registrant on May 11, 2009.

 

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SEC Assigned
Exhibit Number

  

Description of Exhibits

10.17*    Form of performance-based restricted stock agreement and award notice applicable to the non-employee members of the Board of Directors under the Regions Financial Corporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on April 22, 2009.
10.18*    Form of director stock option grant agreement under Regions Financial Corporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.46 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on February 26, 2008.
10.19*    Form of 2009 LTI cash award agreement under the Regions Financial Corporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan.
10.20*    Form of TARP restricted stock award agreement under the Regions Financial Corporation 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan with John C. Carson.
10.21*    AmSouth Bancorporation 1996 Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan, as amended, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by AmSouth Bancorporation on November 9, 2004, File No. 1-7476.
10.22*    Amendment Number 1 to the AmSouth Bancorporation 1996 Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by AmSouth Bancorporation on May 9, 2006, File No. 1-7476.
10.23*    Form of restricted stock grant agreement under AmSouth Bancorporation 1996 Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by AmSouth Bancorporation on April 5, 2006, File No. 1-7476.
10.24*    Form of stock option grant agreement under AmSouth Bancorporation 1996 Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference as Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by AmSouth Bancorporation on February 11, 2005, File No. 1-7476.
10.25*    AmSouth Bancorporation Amended and Restated 1991 Employee Stock Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to attachment A to Proxy Statement of First American Corporation dated and filed March 20, 1997, File No. 0-6198.
10.26*    AmSouth Bancorporation Amended and Restated Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors, incorporated by reference to Appendix E to AmSouth Bancorporation’s Proxy Statement dated March 10, 2004, for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held April 15, 2004, File No. 1-7476.
10.27*    Form of stock option grant agreement under AmSouth Bancorporation Amended and Restated Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by AmSouth Bancorporation on April 26, 2005, File No. 1-7476.
10.28*    Regions Financial Corporation Directors’ Deferred Stock Investment Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by former Regions Financial Corporation on March 24, 2003, File No. 01-31307.
10.29*    Amendment to Regions Financial Corporation Directors’ Deferred Stock Investment Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on March 9, 2006.
10.30*    Amendment to Regions Financial Corporation Directors’ Deferred Stock Investment Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by registrant on August 3, 2007.

 

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SEC Assigned
Exhibit Number

  

Description of Exhibits

10.31*    Amended and Restated Regions Financial Corporation Directors’ Deferred Stock Investment Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on February 25, 2009.
10.32*    Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors of AmSouth Bancorporation, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10-q to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by AmSouth Bancorporation on March 30, 1998, File No. 1-7476.
10.33*    Amendment No. 1 to Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors of AmSouth Bancorporation adopted effective November 4, 2006, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.50 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on March 1, 2007.
10.34*    Amended and Restated Regions Financial Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Former Directors of AmSouth Bancorporation (formerly named Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors of AmSouth Bancorporation), incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on February 25, 2009.
10.35*    First American Corporation Directors’ Deferred Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10-a to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by AmSouth Bancorporation on April 30, 2002, File No. 1-7476.
10.36*    Amendment Number 2 to First American Corporation Directors’ Deferred Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by registrant on November 9, 2007.
10.37*    Form of deferred compensation agreement implementing deferred compensation arrangements with certain directors who were formerly directors of Union Planters Corporation, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on March 14, 2005.
10.38*    AmSouth Bancorporation Deferred Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by AmSouth Bancorporation on March 15, 2005, File No. 1-7476.
10.39*    Amendment Number 1 to AmSouth Bancorporation Deferred Compensation Plan effective November 4, 2006, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.59 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on March 1, 2007.
10.40*    Amendment Number 2 to AmSouth Bancorporation Deferred Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.36 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on February 25, 2009.
10.41*    Regions Financial Corporation Executive Bonus Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on May 25, 2005.
10.42*    Amended and Restated AmSouth Bancorporation Management Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.47 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on February 26, 2008.
10.43*    Letter Agreement re: Termination of Employment Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2007, by and between Regions Financial Corporation and C. Dowd Ritter, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on October 3, 2007.
10.44*    Letter Agreement re: Supplemental Retirement Agreement dated as of October 1, 2007, by and between Regions Financial Corporation and C. Dowd Ritter, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on October 3, 2007.

 

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SEC Assigned
Exhibit Number

  

Description of Exhibits

10.45*    Life Insurance Agreements incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 of Form 10-K Annual Report filed by AmSouth Bancorporation on March 10, 2006, File No. 1-7476.
10.46*    Consulting Agreement, dated February 22, 2010 between Regions Financial Corporation and C. Dowd Ritter, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K Current report filed by registrant on February 22, 2010.
10.47*    Form of Change-in-Control Agreement for executive officers O. B. Grayson Hall, Jr., David B. Edmonds and John B. Owen, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on October 3, 2007.
10.48*    Form of Change-in-Control Agreement with executive officers Brett D. Couch, Barbara Godin, C. Keith Herron, David R. Keenan, Scott M. Peters, Cynthia M. Rogers, Ronald G. Smith and David J. Turner, Jr.
10.49*    Form of Change-in-Control Agreement with executive officers John C. Asbury, Ellen S. Jones and William D. Ritter.
10.50*    Form of Change-in-Control Agreement with executive officer John C. Carson.
10.51*    Letter to Irene Esteves, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.84 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on February 26, 2008.
10.52*    Form of letter agreement and Waiver executed in favor of U.S. Treasury and signed by each of O. B. Grayson Hall, Jr., David C. Edmonds, John B. Owen, and David J. Turner, Jr., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.47 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on February 25, 2009.
10.53*    Form of Retention RSU Award Notice, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on October 3, 2007.
10.54*    Form of Retention RSU Award Agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on October 3, 2007.
10.55*    Regions Financial Corporation Supplemental 401(k) Plan Amended and Restated as of April 1, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by registrant on August 6, 2008.
10.56*    Amended and Restated Regions Financial Corporation Supplemental 401(k) Plan (formerly named AmSouth Bancorporation Supplemental Thrift Plan), incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.58 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on February 25, 2009.
10.57*    Amendment Number One to the Regions Financial Corporation Supplemental 401(K) Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on February 25, 2009.
10.58*    Amendment Number Two to the Regions Financial Corporation Supplemental 401(K) Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on December 18, 2009.
10.59*    Amendment Number Three to the Regions Financial Corporation Supplemental 401(K) Plan.
10.60*    Amendment Number Four to the Regions Financial Corporation Supplemental 401(K) Plan.
10.61*    Amended and Restated Regions Financial Corporation Post 2006 Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (formerly named AmSouth Bancorporation Supplemental Retirement Plan), incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.62 to Form 10-K Annual Report filed by registrant on February 25, 2009.

 

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SEC Assigned
Exhibit Number

  

Description of Exhibits

10.62*    Amendment Number One to the Regions Financial Corporation Post 2006 Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on February 27, 2009.
10.63*    Amendment Number Two to the Regions Financial Corporation Post 2006 Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on December 18, 2009.
10.64*    Regions Financial Corporation Post 2006 Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Amended and Restated as of January 1, 2010.
10.65*    Amendment Number One to the Regions Financial Corporation Post 2006 Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Amended and Restated Effective as of January 1, 2010.
10.66*    Form of Indemnification Agreement for Directors of AmSouth Bancorporation, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by AmSouth Bancorporation on April 20, 2006, File No. 1-7476.
10.67*    Form of Aircraft Time Sharing Agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed by registrant on November 4, 2009.
10.68*    Form of 2009-2010 Annual Salary Stock Unit Award Agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on December 11, 2009.
10.69*    Regions Financial Corporation Management Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant on December 11, 2009.
10.70*    Form of Morgan Keegan & Company, Inc. Restricted Cash Agreement for executive officer John C. Carson.
10.71*    Morgan Keegan & Company Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan dated January 1, 2011.
10.72    Letter Agreement, dated November 14, 2008 including the Securities Purchase Agreement—Standard Terms incorporated by reference therein, between registrant and the U.S. Treasury, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K Current Report filed by registrant November 18, 2008.
12    Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.
21    List of subsidiaries of registrant.
23    Consent of independent registered public accounting firm.
24    Powers of Attorney.
31.1    Certifications of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2    Certifications of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32    Certifications pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
99.1    Certifications of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to 31 C.F.R. § 30.15.
99.2    Certifications of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 31 C.F.R. § 30.15.
101    Interactive Data File**

 

* Compensatory plan or agreement.
** To be filed by amendment

 

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Copies of exhibits not included herein may be obtained free of charge, electronically through Regions’ website at www.regions.com or through the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or upon request to:

Investor Relations

Regions Financial Corporation

1900 Fifth Avenue North

Birmingham, Alabama 35203

(205) 326-5807

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

REGIONS FINANCIAL CORPORATION

By:

  /S/    O. B. GRAYSON HALL, JR.        
  O. B. Grayson Hall, Jr.
  President and Chief Executive Officer

Date: February 24, 2011

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Signature

  

Title

 

Date

/S/    O. B. GRAYSON HALL, JR.        

O. B. Grayson Hall, Jr.

   President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director (principal executive officer)   February 24, 2011

/S/    DAVID J. TURNER, JR.

David J. Turner, Jr.

   Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer)   February 24, 2011

/S/    HARDIE B. KIMBROUGH, JR.        

Hardie B. Kimbrough, Jr.

   Executive Vice President and Controller (principal accounting officer)   February 24, 2011

*

Samuel W. Bartholomew, Jr.

   Director   February 24, 2011

*

George W. Bryan

   Director   February 24, 2011

*

Carolyn H. Byrd

   Director   February 24, 2011

*

David J. Cooper, Sr.

   Director   February 24, 2011

*

Earnest W. Deavenport, Jr.

   Chairman of the Board, Director   February 24, 2011

*

Don DeFosset

   Director   February 24, 2011

*

Eric C. Fast

   Director   February 24, 2011

 

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Signature

  

Title

 

Date

*

James R. Malone

   Director   February 24, 2011

*

Susan W. Matlock

   Director   February 24, 2011

*

John E. Maupin, Jr.

   Director   February 24, 2011

*

Charles D. McCrary

   Director   February 24, 2011

*

John R. Roberts

   Director   February 24, 2011

*

Lee J. Styslinger III

   Director   February 24, 2011

 

* John D. Buchanan, by signing his name hereto, does sign this document on behalf of each of the persons indicated above pursuant to powers of attorney executed by such persons and filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

By:   /s/    JOHN D. BUCHANAN        
  John D. Buchanan
  Attorney in Fact

 

209