The bank's nonaccrual loans have been soaring as the pandemic continues to roil the hospitality sector. M&T executives said they've been working with borrowers to keep them out of foreclosure.
While banks are reporting steady declines in deferrals, hard-hit borrowers such as airlines, commercial real estate developers and hotel operators will almost certainly struggle to regain their footing.
Hospitality sector credits are coming out of forebearance just as coronavirus cases surge. Restructurings and charge-offs could mount unless vaccine distribution happens quickly enough to jump-start travel by mid-2021.
A prosperous decade leading up to the pandemic had left lenders in good shape, but they're worried the economic shock to the state's most vital industry could linger into 2022.
Banks' restaurant and hotel clients in many oceanside communities are seeing an uptick in business as travelers opt for short hops over long hauls during the coronavirus crisis. But activity could slow as colder weather approaches.
More details have emerged about the damage the coronavirus pandemic is inflicting on the hospitality industry. One servicer alone has received 2,000 workout requests in the past month.
Banks are avoiding the once booming hospitality business, or charging a premium for additional credit, as new data shows how big a hit hoteliers have taken from the pandemic.
Banks could be busy supplying credit to manufacturers, hotels, multifamily developers and other businesses that will be helping residents get their lives back on track after two fierce storms.