Conference Call
OFG will hold a conference call to discuss this announcement and related matters Thursday, June 27, 2019, at 10:00 AM Eastern and Puerto Rico Time. Phone (888)562-3356 or (973)582-2700. Use conference ID557-9677. The call also can be accessed live on OFG’s website at www.ofgbancorp.com. A webcast replay will be available later. Access the webcast link in advance to download any necessary software.
CEO Comment
The acquisition provides the combined companies with greater prospects for growth, profitability and employee engagement, said José Rafael Fernández, President, CEO and Vice Chairman of the Board of OFG and Oriental Bank.
“It is also an excellent opportunity to deploy OFG’s excess capital to accelerate the implementation of our differentiation strategy, enhance financial performance, and increase shareholder value.
“We are combining two excellent banks to create a strongly capitalized, market leading institution focused on the needs of consumers and businesses in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.
“We’re excited about welcoming Scotia’s valued customers and talented team into the Oriental family. We share a similar culture, approach and outlook for our businesses and how we regard and service our customers.
“Scotiabank in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands is known for its strong retail banking franchise in core deposits and loans, principally residential mortgages; its well-developed mortgage servicing and insurance agency operations; and provides Oriental with a presence as the third largest bank in the US Virgin Islands.
“The acquisition is also well timed. Rebuilding activities have given a much needed impetus, turning the Puerto Rico economy positive. Ultimately, the transaction reaffirms our faith in Puerto Rico’s future, and our commitment to play an instrumental role in it.
“Ganesh Kumar, our Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, will lead the integration team. Following its 2012 acquisition, Dr. Kumar supervised the very successful incorporation of BBVA PR’s $3.7 billion in loans and $3.3 billion in deposits.”
TheOFG-Scotiabank Puerto Rico-USVI Combination
Upon consummation of the acquisition, Oriental Bank will significantly increase the number of clients served as well as its core deposit funding. The resulting loan portfolio will be approximately a third each in commercial loans, residential mortgages, and consumer loans and leases.
In recent years, Scotiabank has improved the credit quality of its portfolios in Puerto Rico and USVI. Totalnon-performing assets declined by 62% from 2016 to first quarter 2019, and total direct PR government exposure is no longer significant.
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