Burned by a 2007 deal in Florida, Park National in Ohio had several years to reflect on lessons learned before agreeing to buy NewDominion Bank in Charlotte, N.C.
The Pittsburgh company reported a noisy fourth quarter that included expenses tied to its purchase of Yadkin Financial and a reduction in the value of its deferred tax assets.
The Illinois company reported strong loan growth, an wider net interest margin and a one-time net tax benefit of nearly $8 million tied to recently passed tax reform.
Look for banks to boost dividend payouts, expand into new markets, increase their tech spending and, eventually, ramp up their C&I lending. But don't expect much in the way of M&A.
