First Horizon's Credit Ratings Outlook Upgraded to Positive by Moody's

Core Viewpoint - First Horizon Corporation's credit ratings outlook has been upgraded to positive by Moody's, reflecting improvements in its regional banking franchise and deposit quality [1][9]. Group 1: Ratings and Outlook - Moody's upgraded First Horizon's long-term issuer rating and senior unsecured notes, affirming its Baa3 long-term issuer rating [1]. - The positive outlook is attributed to First Horizon's strengthening regional banking franchise in the Southeast and effective risk management [2][6]. - Moody's expects ongoing improvements in asset quality and funding despite uncertain economic conditions [2]. Group 2: Financial Performance - First Horizon has demonstrated consistent performance with decent asset quality, strong capitalization, and adequate liquidity [3]. - The bank's tangible common equity (TCE) ratio is 10.6% and the CET1 ratio is 10.9% as of March 2025, both within or slightly above target ranges [5]. - Profitability is recovering, supported by specialty lending and effective deposit pricing management, although fee income remains volatile [5][9]. Group 3: Risk Management and Future Prospects - Moody's noted that an upgrade is likely if First Horizon continues prudent risk management and improves deposit quality [7]. - The bank's deposit franchise has shown resilience, particularly after the collapse of its planned merger with Toronto-Dominion Bank [4]. - Ongoing improvements in capital, asset quality, and funding diversification support the positive outlook [6]. Group 4: Market Performance - Over the past year, First Horizon's shares have increased by 36.5%, outperforming the industry's growth of 24.4% [8].