Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2024 |
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] | |
Basis of Accounting | Basis of Accounting The consolidated financial statements of FHN, including its subsidiaries, have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and follow general practices within the industries in which it operates. This preparation requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. These estimates and assumptions are based on information available as of the date of the financial statements and could differ from actual results. |
Principles of Consolidation | Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of FHN and other entities in which it has a controlling financial interest. Variable interest entities for which FHN or a subsidiary has been determined to be the primary beneficiary are also consolidated. Affiliates for which FHN is not considered the primary beneficiary and in which FHN does not have a controlling financial interest are accounted for under the equity method. These investments are included in other assets, and FHN’s proportionate share of income or loss is included in noninterest income. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. |
Revenues | Revenues Revenue is recognized when the performance obligations under the terms of a contract with a client are satisfied in an amount that reflects the consideration FHN expects to be entitled. FHN derives a significant portion of its revenues from fee-based services. Noninterest income from transaction-based fees is generally recognized immediately upon completion of the transaction. Noninterest income from service-based fees is generally recognized over the period in which FHN provides the service. Any services performed over time generally require that FHN render services each period and, therefore, FHN measures progress in completing these services based upon the passage of time and recognizes revenue as invoiced. Following is a discussion of FHN's key revenues within the scope of ASC 606, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers," except as noted. Fixed Income Fixed income includes fixed income securities sales, trading, and strategies, as well as loan sales and derivative sales, which are not within the scope of revenue from contracts with customers. Fixed income also includes investment banking fees earned for services related to underwriting debt securities and performing portfolio advisory services. FHN's performance obligation for underwriting services is satisfied on the trade date, while the performance obligation for advisory services is satisfied over time. Mortgage Banking Income Mortgage banking income includes mortgage servicing income, mortgage loan originations and sales, derivative settlements, as well as any changes in fair value recorded on mortgage loans and derivatives. Mortgage banking income from 1) the sale of loans, 2) the settlement of derivatives, 3) changes in the fair value of loans, derivatives, and servicing rights, and 4) the servicing of loans is not within the scope of revenue from contracts with customers. Prior to the sale of the title insurance business during 2022, mortgage banking income also included title income, which was earned when FHN fulfilled its performance obligation at the point in time when the services were completed. Deposit Transactions and Cash Management Deposit transactions and cash management activities include fees for services related to consumer and commercial deposit products (such as service charges on checking accounts), cash management products and services such as electronic transaction processing (Automated Clearing House and Electronic Data Interchange), account reconciliation services, cash vault services, lockbox processing, and information reporting to large corporate clients. FHN's obligation for transaction-based services is satisfied at the time of the transaction when the service is delivered, while FHN's obligation for service-based fees is satisfied over the course of each month. Brokerage, Management Fees and Commissions Brokerage, management fees and commissions include fees for portfolio management, trade commissions, and annuity and mutual fund sales. Asset-based management fees are charged based on the market value of the client’s assets. The services associated with these revenues, which include investment advice and active management of client assets, are generally performed and recognized over a month or quarter. Transactional revenues are based on the size and number of transactions executed at the client’s direction and are generally recognized on the trade date. Trust Services and Investment Management Trust services and investment management fees include investment management, personal trust, employee benefits, and custodial trust services. Obligations for trust services are generally satisfied over time but may be satisfied at points in time for certain activities that are transactional in nature. Card and Digital Banking Fees Card and digital banking fees include credit interchange and network revenues and various card-related fees. Interchange income is recognized concurrently with the delivery of services on a daily basis. Card-related fees such as late fees, currency conversion, and cash advance fees are loan-related and excluded from the scope of ASC 606. Contract Balances As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, accounts receivable related to products and services on noninterest income were $14 million and $13 million, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2024, FHN had no material impairment losses on noninterest accounts receivable, and there were no material contract assets, contract liabilities, or deferred contract costs recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2024. Credit risk is assessed on these accounts receivable each reporting period, and the amount of estimated uncollectible receivables is not material. Transaction Price Allocated to Remaining Performance Obligations For the year ended December 31, 2024, revenue recognized from performance obligations related to prior periods was not material. Revenue expected to be recognized in any future year related to remaining performance obligations, excluding revenue pertaining to contracts that have an original expected duration of one year or less and contracts where revenue is recognized as invoiced, is not material. |
Statement of Cash Flows | Statements of Cash Flows For purposes of these statements, cash and due from banks, federal funds sold, and securities purchased under agreements to resell are considered cash and cash equivalents. Federal funds are usually sold for one-day periods, and securities purchased under agreements to resell are short-term, highly liquid investments. |
Interest-Bearing Deposits with Banks | Interest-Bearing Deposits With Banks Interest-bearing deposits with banks primarily consist of funds on deposit with the Federal Reserve and collateral posted with derivative counterparties. Interest is earned at overnight rates. |
Debt and Equity Investment Securities | Debt Investment Securities Debt securities that may be sold prior to maturity are classified as AFS and are carried at fair value. The unrealized gains and losses on debt securities AFS, including securities for which no credit impairment exists, are excluded from earnings and are reported, net of tax, as a component of other comprehensive income within shareholders’ equity and the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Debt securities which management has the intent and ability to hold to maturity are reported at amortized cost. See Note 23 - Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities for additional information. Realized gains and losses (i.e., from sales) for debt investment securities are determined by the specific identification method and reported in noninterest income. The evaluation of credit risk for HTM debt securities mirrors the process described below for loans held for investment. AFS debt securities are reviewed for potential credit impairment at the individual security level. The evaluation of credit risk includes consideration of third-party and government guarantees (both explicit and implicit), senior or subordinated status, credit ratings of the issuer, the effects of interest rate changes since purchase, and observable market information such as issuer-specific credit spreads. Credit losses for AFS debt securities are generally recognized through establishment of an allowance for credit losses that cannot exceed the amount by which amortized cost exceeds fair value. Charge-offs are recorded as reductions of the security’s amortized cost and the credit allowance. Subsequent improvements in estimated credit losses result in reduction of the credit allowance, but not beyond zero. However, if FHN has the intent to sell or if it is more-likely-than-not that it will be compelled to sell a security with an unrecognized loss, the difference between the security's carrying value and fair value is recognized through earnings and a new amortized cost basis is established for the security (i.e., no allowance for credit losses is recognized). FHN has elected to exclude accrued interest receivable from the fair value and amortized cost basis on debt securities when assessing whether these securities have experienced credit impairment. Additionally, FHN has elected to not measure an allowance for credit losses on AIR for debt securities based on its policy to write off uncollectible interest in a timely manner, which generally occurs when delinquency reaches no more than 90 days for all security types. Any such write-offs are recognized as a reduction of interest income. AIR for debt securities is included within other assets Equity Investments Equity investments are classified in other assets. Banks organized under state law may apply to be members of the Federal Reserve System. Each member bank is required to own stock in its regional Federal Reserve Bank. Given this requirement, FRB stock may not be sold, traded, or pledged as collateral for loans. Membership in the Federal Home Loan Bank network requires ownership of capital stock. Member banks are entitled to borrow funds from the FHLB and are required to pledge mortgage loans as collateral. Investments in the FHLB are non- transferable and, generally, membership is maintained primarily to provide a source of liquidity as needed. FRB and FHLB stock are recorded at cost and are subject to impairment reviews. FHN's subsidiary, First Horizon Bank, was a state member bank throughout 2024. Other equity investments primarily consist of mutual funds, which are marked to fair value through earnings, and equity investments without a readily determinable fair value, which are recorded at cost minus impairment, with adjustments through earnings for observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or a similar investment of the same issuer. |
Federal Funds Sold and Purchased | Federal Funds Sold and Purchased Federal funds sold and purchased represent unsecured overnight funding arrangements between participants in the Federal Reserve system primarily to assist banks in meeting their regulatory cash reserve requirements. Federal funds sold are evaluated for credit risk each reporting period. Due to the short duration of each transaction and the history of no credit losses, no credit loss has been recognized. |
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 FHN purchases short-term securities under agreements to resell, which are accounted for as collateralized financings except where FHN does not have an agreement to sell the same or substantially the same securities before maturity at a fixed or determinable price. All of FHN’s securities purchased under agreements to resell are recognized as collateralized financings. Securities delivered under these transactions are delivered to either the dealer custody account at the FRB or to the applicable counterparty. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase are offered to cash management clients as an automated, collateralized investment account. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase are also used by the consumer or commercial bank to obtain favorable borrowing rates on its purchased funds. All of FHN's securities sold under agreements to repurchase are secured borrowings. Collateral is valued daily and FHN may require counterparties to deposit additional securities or cash as collateral, or FHN may return cash or securities previously pledged by counterparties, or FHN may be required to post additional securities or cash as collateral, based on the contractual requirements for these transactions. FHN’s fixed income business utilizes securities borrowing arrangements as part of its trading operations. Securities borrowing transactions generally require FHN to deposit cash with the securities lender. The amount of cash advanced is recorded within securities purchased under agreements to resell in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These transactions are not considered purchases and the securities borrowed are not recognized by FHN. FHN does not conduct securities lending transactions. Securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities borrowing arrangements are evaluated for credit risk each reporting period. As presented in Note 22 - Master Netting and Similar Agreements - Repurchase, Reverse Repurchase, and Securities Borrowing Transactions, these agreements are collateralized by the related securities and collateral maintenance provisions with counterparties, including replenishment and adjustment on a transaction-specific basis. This collateral includes both the securities collateral for each transaction as well as offsetting securities sold under agreements to repurchase with the same counterparty. Given the history of no credit losses and collateralized nature of these transactions, no credit loss has been recognized. |
Loans Held-for-Sale | Loans Held for Sale Loans originated or purchased for which management lacks the intent to hold are included in loans held for sale in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. FHN generally accounts for loans held for sale at the lower of amortized cost or market value, with an exception for certain mortgage loans held for sale and repurchased loans that are not government insured which are accounted for under the fair value option of reporting. • Fair Value Option Election. These loans consist of originated fixed-rate single-family residential mortgage loans that are committed to be sold in the secondary market. Gains and losses on these mortgage loans are included in mortgage banking income. • Other loans held for sale. |
Loans and Leases, Purchased Credit-Deteriorated Loans | Loans and Leases Generally, loans are stated at principal amounts outstanding, net of unearned income. Interest on loans is recognized on an accrual basis at the applicable interest rate on the principal amount outstanding. Loan origination fees and direct costs as well as premiums and discounts are amortized as level yield adjustments over the respective loan terms. Unamortized net fees or costs, premiums and discounts are recognized in interest income upon early repayment of the loans. Loan commitment fees are generally deferred and amortized on a straight-line basis over the commitment period. Equipment financing leases to commercial clients are primarily classified as direct financing and sales-type leases. Equipment financing leases are reported at the net lease investment, which represents the sum of minimum lease payments over the lease term and the estimated residual value, less unearned interest income. Interest income is accrued as earned over the term of the lease based on the net investment in leases. Fees incurred to originate the lease are deferred and recognized as an adjustment of the yield on the lease. FHN has elected to exclude accrued interest receivable from the amortized cost basis on its held-for-investment loan portfolio. FHN has also elected to not measure an allowance for credit losses on AIR for loans held for investment based on its policy to write off uncollectible interest in a timely manner, which occurs when a loan is placed on nonaccrual status. Such write-offs are recognized as a reduction of interest income. AIR for held-for-investment loans is included within other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Purchased Credit-Deteriorated Loans At the time of acquisition, FHN evaluates all acquired loans to determine if they have experienced a more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since origination. PCD loans can be identified on either an 1) individual or a 2) pooled basis when the loans share similar risk characteristics. FHN evaluates various absolute factors to assist in the identification of PCD loans, including criteria such as existing PCD status, risk rating of special mention or lower, nonaccrual or impaired status, identification of prior loan modifications, and delinquency status. FHN also utilizes relative factors to identify PCD loans, such as commercial loan grade migration, expansion of borrower credit spreads, declines in external risk ratings and changes in consumer loan characteristics (e.g., FICO decline or LTV increase). In addition, factors reflective of broad economic considerations are also considered in identifying PCD loans. These include industry, collateral type, and the geographic location of the borrower’s operations. Internal factors for the origination of new loans that are similar to the acquired loans are also evaluated to assess loans for PCD status, including increases in required yields, the necessity of borrowers providing additional collateral and/or guarantees, and changes in acceptable loan duration. Other indicators may also be used to evaluate loans for PCD status depending on borrower-specific communications and actions, such as public statements, initiation of loan modification discussions, and obtaining emergency funding from alternate sources. Upon acquisition, the expected credit losses are allocated to the purchase price of individual PCD loans to determine each individual asset's amortized cost basis, typically resulting in a reduction of the discount that is accreted prospectively to interest income. At the acquisition date and prospectively, only the unpaid principal balance is incorporated within the estimation of expected credit losses for PCD loans. Otherwise, the process for estimation of expected credit losses is consistent with that discussed below. As discussed below, FHN applies undiscounted cash flow methodologies for the estimation of expected credit losses, which results in the calculated amount of credit losses at acquisition that is added to the amortized cost basis of the related PCD loans to exceed the discounted value of estimated credit losses included in the loan valuation. For PCD loans where all or a portion of the loan balance has been previously written off, or would be subject to write-off under FHN’s charge-off policy, the initial ALLL included as part of the grossed-up loan balance at acquisition was immediately written off, resulting in a zero period-end allowance balance and no impact on the ALLL rollforward. |
Nonaccrual and Past Due Loans | Nonaccrual and Past Due Loans Generally, loans are placed on nonaccrual status if it becomes evident that full collection of principal and interest is at risk, impairment has been recognized as a partial charge-off of principal balance due to insufficient collateral value and past due status, or on a case-by-case basis if FHN continues to receive payments, but there are other borrower-specific issues. Consumer loans are generally placed into nonaccrual status no later than 90 days past due. • Residential real estate loans discharged through Chapter 7 bankruptcy and not reaffirmed by the borrower (“discharged bankruptcies”) are placed on nonaccrual. They are not returned to accrual status even if current and performing in the future. • Current second-lien residential real estate loans that are junior to first liens are placed on nonaccrual status if in bankruptcy. When commercial and consumer loans within each portfolio segment and class are placed on nonaccrual status, accrued but uncollected interest is reversed and charged against interest income. Management may elect to continue the accrual of interest when the estimated net realizable value of collateral is sufficient to recover the principal balance and accrued interest. Interest payments received on nonaccrual loans are normally applied to outstanding principal first. Once all principal has been received, additional interest payments are recognized on a cash basis as interest income. Generally, commercial and consumer loans within each portfolio segment and class that have been placed on nonaccrual status can be returned to accrual status if all principal and interest is current and FHN expects full repayment of the remaining contractual principal and interest. This typically requires that a borrower make payments in accordance with the contractual terms for a sustained period of time (generally for a minimum of six months) before being returned to accrual status. Residential real estate loans discharged through Chapter 7 bankruptcy and not reaffirmed by the borrower are not returned to accrual status. For current second liens that have been placed on nonaccrual because the first lien is 90 or more days past due, the second lien may be returned to accrual upon pay-off or cure of the first lien. |
Charge-offs | Charge-offs For all commercial and consumer loan portfolio segments, all losses of principal are charged to the ALLL in the period in which the loan is deemed to be uncollectible. For consumer loans, the timing of a full or partial charge-off generally depends on the loan type and delinquency status. Generally, for the consumer real estate segment, a loan will be either partially or fully charged off when it becomes 180 days past due. At this time, if the collateral value does not support foreclosure, balances are fully charged off and other avenues of recovery are pursued. If the collateral value supports foreclosure, the loan is charged down to net realizable value (collateral value less estimated costs to sell) and is placed on nonaccrual status. For residential real estate loans discharged in Chapter 7 bankruptcy and not reaffirmed by the borrower, the fair value of the collateral position is assessed at the time FHN is made aware of the discharge and the loan is charged down to the net realizable value (collateral value less estimated costs to sell). Within the credit card and other portfolio segment, credit cards are normally charged off upon reaching 120 days past due. Other non-real estate consumer loans are charged off or partially charged off upon reaching 120 days past due. For acquired PCD loans where all or a portion of the loan balance had been charged off prior to acquisition, and for which active collection efforts are still underway, the ALLL recorded at acquisition is immediately charged off if required by FHN’s existing charge off policy. Additionally, FHN is required to consider its existing policies in determining whether to charge off any financial assets, regardless of whether a charge-off was recorded by the predecessor company. The initial ALLL recognized on PCD assets includes the gross-up of the loan balance reduced by immediate charge-offs for loans previously charged off by the predecessor company or which meet FHN’s charge-off policy on the date of acquisition. Charge-offs against the allowance related to such acquired PCD loans do not result in an income statement impact. |
Allowance for Credit Losses | Allowance for Credit Losses The nature of the process by which FHN determines the appropriate ACL requires the exercise of considerable judgment. The ACL is determined in accordance with ASC 326-20, "Financial Instruments—Credit Losses," which was adopted on January 1, 2020. See Note 4 - Allowance for Credit Losses for a discussion of FHN’s ACL methodology and a description of the models utilized in the estimation process for the commercial and consumer loan portfolios. Future adjustments to the ACL may be necessary if economic or other conditions differ substantially from the assumptions used in making the estimates or, if required by regulators, based upon information at the time of their examinations or upon future regulatory guidance. Such adjustments to original estimates, as necessary, are made in the period in which these factors and other relevant considerations indicate that loss levels vary from previous estimates. Management's estimate of expected credit losses in the loan and lease portfolio is recorded in the ALLL and the reserve for unfunded lending commitments, together referred to as the ACL. The ACL is maintained at a level that management determines is appropriate to absorb current expected credit losses in the loan and lease portfolio and unfunded lending commitments. Management uses analytical models to estimate expected credit losses in the loan and lease portfolio and unfunded lending commitments as of the balance sheet date. The models are carefully reviewed to identify trends that may not be captured in the modeled loss estimates. Management uses qualitative adjustments for those items not reflected in the modeled loss information such as recent changes from the macroeconomic forecasts utilized in model calculations, results of additional stressed modeling scenarios, observed and/or expected changes affecting borrowers in specific industries or geographic areas, exposure to large lending relationships, and expected recoveries of prior charge-offs. Qualitative adjustments are also used to accommodate for the imprecision of certain assumptions and uncertainties inherent in the model calculations as well as to align certain differences in models used by acquired loan portfolios to the methodologies described herein. Loans accounted for at elected fair value are excluded from CECL measurements. The ALLL is increased by the provision for loan and lease losses and is decreased by loan charge-offs. Credit loss estimation is based on the amortized cost of loans, which includes the following: 1. Unpaid principal balance for originated assets or acquisition price for purchased assets 2. Accrued interest (see elections discussed previously) 3. Accretion or amortization of premium, discount, and net deferred fees or costs 4. Collection of cash 5. Charge-offs Premiums, discounts, and net deferred origination costs/fees affect the calculated amount of expected credit losses, but they are not considered when determining the amount of expected credit losses that are recorded. Under CECL, a loan must be pooled when it shares similar risk characteristics with other loans. Loans that do not share similar risk characteristics are evaluated individually. Expected credit loss is estimated for the remaining life of loan(s), which is limited to the remaining contractual term(s), adjusted for prepayment estimates, which are included as separate inputs into modeled loss estimates. Renewals and extensions are not anticipated unless they are included in existing loan documentation and are not unconditionally cancellable by the lender. However, prior to January 1, 2023, losses were estimated over the estimated remaining life of reasonably expected TDRs which could extend beyond the current remaining contractual term. Management has developed multiple current expected credit losses models which segment the loan and lease portfolio by borrower type and loan or lease type to estimate expected lifetime expected credit losses for loans and leases that share similar risk characteristics. Estimates of expected credit losses incorporate consideration of available information that is relevant to assessing the collectability of future cash flows. This includes internal and external information relating to past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts of future conditions. FHN utilizes internal and external historical loss information, as applicable, for all available historical periods as the initial point for estimating expected credit losses. Given the duration of historical information available, FHN considers its internal loss history to fully incorporate the effects of prior credit cycles dating back to the Great Recession. The historical loss information may be adjusted in situations where current loan characteristics (e.g., underwriting criteria) differ from those in existence at the time the historical losses occurred. Historical loss information is also adjusted for differences in economic conditions, macroeconomic forecasts and other factors management considers relevant over a period extending beyond the measurement date which is considered reasonable and supportable. FHN generally measures expected credit losses using undiscounted cash flow methodologies. Credit enhancements (e.g., guarantors) that are not freestanding are considered in the estimation of uncollectible cash flows. Estimation of expected credit losses for loan agreements involving collateral maintenance provisions includes consideration of the value of the collateral and replenishment requirements, with the maximum loss limited to the difference between the amortized cost of the loan and the fair value of the collateral. Expected credit losses for loans for which foreclosure is probable are measured at the fair value of collateral, less estimated costs to sell when disposition through sale is anticipated. Additionally, for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty, certain loans are valued at the fair value of collateral when repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the operation of the collateral. The fair value of the collateral is reduced for estimated costs to sell when repayment is expected through sale of the collateral. Prior to January 1, 2023, expected credit losses for TDRs were measured in accordance with ASC 310-40, which generally required a discounted cash flow methodology, whereby the loans were measured based on the present value of expected future payments discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate. Subsequent to December 31, 2022, in accordance with the provisions of ASU 2022-02, FHN has ceased recognition of TDRs and no longer performs discounted cash flow calculations for these loans to estimate expected credit losses. FHN now monitors and discloses information associated with modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. For both commercial and consumer portfolio segments, an adjustment to the ACL is generally not recorded at the time of modification because FHN includes these modified loans in its quantitative loss estimation processes. In the event of principal forgiveness, which primarily occurs for commercial loan workouts and consumer loans experiencing bankruptcy, FHN records the reduction in expected collectible principal balance as a charge-off against the ALLL. Expected recoveries of previously charged-off amounts are also included as a qualitative adjustment in the estimation of expected credit losses, which reduces the amount of the allowance recognized. Estimates of recoveries on previously charged-off assets included in the allowance for loan losses do not exceed the aggregate of amounts previously written off and expected to be written off for an individual loan or pool. Since CECL requires the estimation of credit losses for the entire expected life of loans, loss estimates are highly sensitive to changes in macroeconomic forecasts, especially when those forecasts change dramatically in short time periods. Additionally, under CECL credit loss estimates are more likely to increase rapidly in periods of loan growth. Expected credit losses for unfunded commitments are estimated for periods where the commitment is not unconditionally cancellable by FHN. The measurement of expected credit losses for unfunded commitments mirrors that of loans with the additional estimate of future draw rates (timing and amount). The liability for credit losses inherent in lending-related commitments, such as letters of credit and unfunded loan commitments, is included in other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and established through a charge to the provision for credit losses. |
Premises and Equipment | Premises and Equipment Premises and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization and include additions that materially extend the useful lives of existing premises and equipment. All other maintenance and repair expenditures are expensed as incurred. Premises and equipment held for sale are generally valued at appraised values which reference recent disposition values for similar property types but also consider marketability discounts for vacant properties. The valuations of premises and equipment held for sale are reduced by estimated costs to sell. Impairments, and any subsequent recoveries, are recorded in noninterest expense. Gains and losses on dispositions are reflected in noninterest income and expense, respectively. |
Other Real Estate Owned | Other Real Estate Owned Real estate acquired by foreclosure or other real estate-owned consists of properties that have been acquired in satisfaction of debt. These properties are carried at the lower of the outstanding loan amount or estimated fair value less estimated costs to sell the real estate. At the time acquired, and in conjunction with the transfer from loans to OREO, there is a charge-off against the ALLL if the estimated fair value less costs to sell is less than the loan’s cost basis. Subsequent declines in fair value and gains or losses on dispositions, if any, are charged to other expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income. Required developmental costs associated with acquired property under construction are capitalized and included in determining the estimated net realizable value of the property, which is reviewed periodically, and any write-downs are charged against current earnings. |
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets | Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the excess of cost over net assets of acquired businesses less identifiable intangible assets. On an annual basis, or more frequently if necessary, FHN assesses goodwill for impairment. Other intangible assets primarily represent client lists and relationships, acquired contracts, covenants not to compete and premiums on purchased deposits, which are amortized over their estimated useful lives. Intangible assets related to acquired deposit bases are primarily amortized over 10 years using an accelerated method. Management evaluates whether events or circumstances have occurred that indicate the remaining useful life or carrying value of amortizing intangibles should be revised. Other intangibles also include smaller amounts of non-amortizing intangibles for state banking licenses. |
Servicing Rights and Transfers of Financial Assets | Servicing Rights FHN recognizes the rights to service mortgage and other loans as separate assets, which are recorded in other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, when purchased or when servicing is contractually separated from the underlying loans by sale with servicing rights retained. For loan sales with servicing retained, a servicing right, generally an asset, is recorded at fair value at the time of sale for the right to service the loans sold. All servicing rights are identified by class and amortized over the remaining life of the loan with periodic reviews for impairment. Transfers of Financial Assets Transfers of financial assets, or portions thereof which meet the definition of a participating interest, are accounted for as sales when control over the assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when 1) the assets have been legally isolated from FHN, 2) 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 FHN, and 3) FHN does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets. If the transfer does not satisfy all three criteria, the transaction is recorded as a secured borrowing. If the transfer is accounted for as a sale, the transferred assets are derecognized from FHN’s balance sheet and a gain or loss on sale is recognized. If the transfer is accounted for as a secured borrowing, the transferred assets remain on FHN’s balance sheet and the proceeds from the transaction are recognized as a liability. |
Derivative Financial Instruments | Derivative Financial Instruments FHN accounts for derivative financial instruments in accordance with ASC 815, which requires recognition of all derivative instruments on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at fair value through adjustments to either accumulated other comprehensive income within shareholders’ equity or current earnings. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell a derivative asset or paid to transfer a derivative liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the transaction date. Fair value is determined using available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies. FHN has elected to present its derivative assets and liabilities gross on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Amounts of collateral posted or received have not been netted with the related derivatives unless the collateral amounts are considered legal settlements of the related derivative positions. See Note 21 - Derivatives for discussion on netting of derivatives. FHN prepares written hedge documentation identifying the risk management objective and designating the derivative instrument as a fair value hedge or cash flow hedge, as applicable, or as a free-standing derivative instrument entered into as an economic hedge or to meet clients’ needs. All transactions designated as ASC 815 hedges must be assessed at inception and on an ongoing basis as to the effectiveness of the derivative instrument in offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows of the hedged item. For a fair value hedge, changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument and changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability attributable to the hedged risk are recognized currently in earnings. For a cash flow hedge, changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and subsequently reclassified to earnings as the hedged transaction impacts net income. For fair value hedges, the entire change in the fair value of the hedging instrument included in the assessment of effectiveness is recorded to the same financial statement line item (e.g., interest expense) used to present the earnings effect of the hedged item. For cash flow hedges, the entire fair value change of the hedging instrument that is included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness is initially recorded in other comprehensive income and later recycled into earnings as the hedged transaction(s) affect net income with the income statement effects recorded in the same financial statement line item used to present the earnings effect of the hedged item (e.g., interest income). For free-standing derivative instruments, changes in fair values are recognized currently in earnings. See Note 21 - Derivatives for additional information. Cash flows from derivative contracts are reported as operating activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. |
Leases, Lessee | Leases At inception, all arrangements are evaluated to determine if they contain a lease, which is defined as a contract, or part of a contract, that conveys the right to control the use of identified property, plant, or equipment for a period of time in exchange for consideration. Control is deemed to exist when a lessor has granted and a lessee has received both the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from use of the identified asset and the right to direct the use of the identified asset throughout the period of use. Lessee As a lessee, FHN recognizes lease (right-of-use) assets and lease liabilities for all leasing arrangements with lease terms that are greater than one year. The lease asset and lease liability are recognized at the present value of estimated future lease payments, including estimated renewal periods, with the discount rate reflecting a fully-collateralized rate matching the estimated lease term. Renewal options are included in the estimated lease term if they are considered reasonably certain of exercise. Periods covered by termination options are included in the lease term if it is reasonably certain they will not be exercised. Additionally, prepaid or accrued lease payments, lease incentives and initial direct costs related to lease arrangements are recognized within the right-of-use asset. Each lease is classified as a financing or operating lease which depends on the relationship of the lessee’s rights to the economic value of the leased asset. For finance leases, interest on the lease liability is recognized separately from amortization of the right-of-use asset in earnings, resulting in higher expense in the earlier portion of the lease term. For operating leases, a single lease cost is calculated so that the cost of the lease is allocated over the lease term on a generally straight-line basis. Substantially all of FHN’s lessee arrangements are classified as operating leases. For leases with a term of 12 months or less, FHN does not recognize lease assets and lease liabilities and expense is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Lease assumptions and classification are reassessed upon the occurrence of events that result in changes to the estimated lease term or consideration. Modifications to lease contracts are evaluated to determine 1) if a right to use an additional asset has been obtained, 2) if only the lease term and/or consideration have been revised, or 3) if a full or partial termination has occurred. If an additional right-of-use asset has been obtained, the modification is treated as a separate contract and its classification is evaluated as a new lease arrangement. If only the lease term or consideration are changed, the lease liability is revalued with an offset to the lease asset and the lease classification is re-assessed. If a modification results in a full or partial termination of the lease, the lease liability is revalued through earnings along with a proportionate reduction in the value of the related lease asset and subsequent expense recognition is similar to a new lease arrangement. Lease assets are evaluated for impairment when triggering events occur, such as a change in management intent regarding the continued occupation of the leased space. If a lease asset is impaired, it is written down to the present value of estimated future cash flows and the prospective expense recognition for that lease follows the accelerated expense recognition methodology applicable to finance leases, even if it remains classified as an operating lease. Sublease arrangements are accounted for consistent with the lessor accounting described below. Sublease arrangements are evaluated to determine if changes to estimates for the primary lease are warranted or if the sublease terms reflect impairment of the related lease asset. |
Leases, Lessor | Leases At inception, all arrangements are evaluated to determine if they contain a lease, which is defined as a contract, or part of a contract, that conveys the right to control the use of identified property, plant, or equipment for a period of time in exchange for consideration. Control is deemed to exist when a lessor has granted and a lessee has received both the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from use of the identified asset and the right to direct the use of the identified asset throughout the period of use. Lessor As a lessor, FHN also evaluates its lease arrangements to determine whether a finance lease or an operating lease exists and utilizes the rate implicit in the lease arrangement as the discount rate to calculate the present value of future cash flows. Depending upon the terms of the individual agreements, finance leases represent either sales-type or direct financing leases, both of which require de-recognition of the asset being leased with offsetting recognition of a lease receivable that is evaluated for impairment similar to loans. Other than equipment leases entered into as part of commercial lease financing arrangements, all of FHN's lessor arrangements are considered operating leases. Lease income for operating leases is recognized over the life of the lease, generally on a straight-line basis. Lease incentives and initial direct costs are capitalized and amortized over the estimated life of the lease. Lease income is not significant for any reporting periods and is classified as a reduction of net occupancy expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income. |
Tax Credit Investments | Tax Credit Investments Commencing in 2024 with the adoption of ASU 2023-02 (see discussion below), FHN has elected to apply the proportional amortization method ("PAM") to all qualifying equity investments generating low income housing tax credits, new markets tax credits and historic tax credits. Under the PAM, the initial cost of a qualifying equity investment is amortized in proportion to the tax credits and other tax benefits received and recognizes the net investment performance as a component of income tax expense. Prior to 2024, FHN’s election to apply the PAM was limited by then-existing GAAP to qualifying equity investments generating low income housing tax credits. Prior to 2024, low income housing tax credit equity investments that did not qualify for the PAM, along with new markets tax credit equity investments and historic tax credit equity investments, were accounted for using the equity method. FHN has elected to utilize the deferral method for investments that generate investment tax credits. This includes both renewable energy tax credit investments and historic tax credit equity investments that do not qualify for the proportional amortization method. Under this approach, the investment tax credits are recorded as an offset to the related investment on the balance sheet. Credit amounts are recognized in earnings over the life of the investment within the same income or expense accounts as used for the investment. |
Advertising and Public Relations | Advertising and Public Relations Advertising and public relations costs are generally expensed as incurred. |
Income Taxes | Income Taxes FHN accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability method pursuant to ASC 740, “Income Taxes,” which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, FHN’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the corresponding tax basis of certain assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on DTAs and DTLs is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Additionally, DTAs are subject to a “more likely than not” test to determine whether the full amount of the DTAs should be recognized in the financial statements. FHN evaluates the likelihood of realization of the DTA based on both positive and negative evidence available at the time, including (as appropriate) scheduled reversals of DTLs, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies, and recent financial performance. If the “more likely than not” test is not met, a valuation allowance must be established against the DTA. In the event FHN determines that DTAs are realizable in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, FHN would make an adjustment to the valuation allowance, which would reduce income tax expense. FHN records uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC 740 on the basis of a two-step process in which 1) it is determined whether it is more likely than not that the tax positions will be sustained on the basis of the technical merits of the position and 2) for those tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority is recognized. FHN's ASC 740 policy is to recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. Accrued interest and penalties are included within the related tax asset or liability line in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. |
Earnings per Share | Earnings per Share Earnings per share is computed by dividing net income or loss available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for each period. Diluted earnings per share in net income periods is computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding adjusted to include the number of additional common shares that would have been outstanding if the potential dilutive common shares resulting from performance shares and units, restricted shares and units, and options granted under FHN’s equity compensation plans and deferred compensation arrangements had been issued. FHN utilizes the treasury stock method in this calculation. Diluted earnings per share does not reflect an adjustment for potentially dilutive shares in periods in which a net loss available to common shareholders exists. |
Equity Compensation | Equity Compensation FHN accounts for its employee stock-based compensation plans using the grant date fair value of an award to determine the expense to be recognized over the life of the award. Stock options are valued using an option-pricing model, such as Black-Scholes. Restricted and performance shares and share units are valued at the stock price on the grant date. For awards with service vesting criteria, expense is recognized using the straight-line method over the requisite service period (generally the vesting period). Forfeitures are recognized when they occur. For awards vesting based on a performance measure, anticipated performance is projected to determine the number of awards expected to vest, and the corresponding aggregate expense is adjusted to reflect the elapsed portion of the performance period. If a performance period extends beyond the required service term, total expense is adjusted for changes in estimated achievement through the end of the performance period. Some performance awards include a total shareholder return modifier (“TSR Modifier”) that operates after determination of the performance criteria, affecting only the quantity of awards issued if the minimum performance threshold is attained. The effect of the TSR Modifier is considered in the grant date fair value of the related performance awards. The fair value of equity awards with cash payout requirements, as well as awards for which fair value cannot be estimated at grant date, is remeasured each reporting period through vesting date. Performance awards with pre-grant date achievement criteria are expensed over the period from the start of the performance period through the end of the service vesting term. Awards are amortized using the nonsubstantive vesting methodology, which requires that expense associated with awards having only service vesting criteria that continue vesting after retirement be recognized over a period ending no later than an associate’s retirement eligibility date. Cash settled awards with payouts partially or fully based on changes in share price are accounted for as liability awards and are remeasured based on changes in their fair value until the end of the performance period. Compensation cost for each reporting period is based on the change in the fair value of the award within each reporting period adjusted for the portion of required service that occurred during the reporting period. |
Repurchase and Foreclosure Provision | Repurchase and Foreclosure Provision The repurchase and foreclosure provision is the charge to earnings necessary to maintain the liability at a level that reflects management’s best estimate of losses associated with the repurchase of loans previously transferred in whole loans sales or securitizations or make-whole requests as of the balance sheet date. See Note 16 - Contingencies and Other Disclosures for discussion related to FHN’s obligations to repurchase such loans. |
Legal Costs | Legal Costs Generally, legal costs are expensed as incurred. Costs related to equity issuances are netted against capital surplus. Costs related to debt issuances are included in debt issuance costs that are recorded within term borrowings. Costs related to equity issuances are recorded as a reduction of the proceeds from the related issuance. |
Contingency Accruals | Contingency Accruals Contingent liabilities arise in the ordinary course of business, including those related to lawsuits, arbitration, mediation, and other forms of litigation. FHN establishes loss contingency liabilities for matters when loss is both probable and reasonably estimable in accordance with ASC 450-20-50, “Contingencies – Accruals for Loss Contingencies.” If loss for a matter is probable and a range of possible loss outcomes is the best estimate available, accounting guidance generally requires a liability to be established at the low end of the range. Expected recoveries from insurance and indemnification arrangements are recognized if they are considered equally as probable and reasonably estimable as the related loss contingency up to the recognized amount of the estimated loss. Gain contingencies and expected recoveries from insurance and indemnification arrangements in excess of the associated recorded estimated losses are generally recognized when received. Recognized recoveries are recorded as offsets to the related expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income. The favorable resolution of a gain contingency generally results in the recognition of other income in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Contingencies assumed in business combinations are evaluated through the end of the one-year post-closing measurement period. If the acquisition-date fair value of the contingency can be determined during the measurement period, recognition occurs as part of the acquisition-date fair value of the acquired business. If the acquisition-date fair value of the contingency cannot be determined, but loss is considered probable as of the acquisition date and can be reasonably estimated within the measurement period, then the estimated amount is recorded within acquisition accounting. If the requirements for inclusion of the contingency as part of the acquisition are not met, subsequent recognition of the contingency is included in earnings. |
Business Combinations | Business Combinations Assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations are generally recognized at their fair values as of the acquisition date, with the related transaction costs expensed in the period incurred. Specified items such as net investment in leases as lessor, acquired operating lease assets and liabilities as lessee, employee benefit plans and income-tax related balances are recognized in accordance with accounting guidance that results in measurements that may differ from fair value. FHN may record provisional amounts at the time of acquisition based on available information. The provisional valuation estimates may be adjusted for a period of up to one year (“measurement period”) from the date of acquisition if new information is obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date that, if known, would have affected the measurement of the amounts recognized as of that date. Business combinations are included in the financial statements from the respective dates of acquisition. Adjustments recorded during the measurement period are recognized in the current reporting period. The excess of purchase price over the valuation of specifically identified assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. In certain circumstances the net values of assets and liabilities acquired may exceed the purchase price, which is recognized within noninterest income as a purchase accounting gain. |
Summary of Accounting Changes, Accounting Changes Issued But Not Currently Effective and SEC Final Rule | Summary of Accounting Changes ASU 2020-04, 2021-01, and 2022-06 In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, “Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting” which provides several optional expedients and exceptions to ease the potential burden in accounting for (or recognizing the effects of) reference rate reform on financial reporting. The provisions of ASU 2020-04 primarily affect 1) contract modifications (e.g., loans, leases, debt, and derivatives) made in anticipation that a reference rate (e.g., LIBOR) will be discontinued and 2) the application of hedge accounting for existing relationships affected by those modifications. The provisions of ASU 2020-04 were effective upon release and apply only to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued because of reference rate reform. Including the adoption of ASU 2022-06 (discussed below), the expedients and exceptions provided by ASU 2020-04 do not apply to contract modifications made and hedging relationships entered into or evaluated after December 31, 2024, except for hedging relationships existing as of December 31, 2024, that an entity has elected certain optional expedients for and that are retained through the end of the hedging relationship. FHN identified contracts affected by reference rate reform, developed modification plans for those contracts and implemented those modifications before the last quotation of LIBOR on June 30, 2023. FHN elected to utilize the optional expedients and exceptions provided by ASU 2020-04 for contract modifications that immediately converted the reference rate within each contract. FHN also elected that revisions to contractual fallback provisions, including modifications in accordance with the provisions of Regulation ZZ, did not require evaluation for modification accounting. Additionally, FHN elected that the revisions to derivative contracts implemented by central clearinghouses to convert centrally cleared derivative contracts from LIBOR to SOFR plus an appropriate spread adjustment were not considered changes requiring assessment for modification accounting. During the transition period, for cash flow hedges that reference 1-Month USD LIBOR, FHN applied expedients related to 1) the assumption of probability of cash flows when reference rates are changed on hedged items 2) avoiding dedesignation when critical terms (i.e., reference rates) change and 3) the allowed assumption of shared risk exposure for hedged items. Additionally, for its cash flow hedges that reference 1-Month Term SOFR, FHN applied expedients related to 1) the allowed assumption of shared risk exposure for hedged items and 2) multiple allowed assumptions of conformity between hedged items and the hedging instrument when assessing effectiveness. FHN continued to utilize these expedients and exceptions through the final cash flows affected by the quotation of LIBOR. In accordance with the provisions of ASU 2020-04, effective immediately after the end of the transition period for its cash flow hedges (i.e., no more cash flows were affected by LIBOR), FHN elected that the cessation of effectiveness assessments under the transition guidance and subsequent initiation of hedge effectiveness assessments under ASC 815 did not require dedesignation of the hedge relationships. In December 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06, "Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848" which extends the transition window for ASU 2020-04 from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2024, consistent with key USD LIBOR tenors continuing to be published through June 30, 2023. In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-01, "Scope" to expand the scope of ASU 2020-04 to apply to certain contract modifications that were implemented in October 2020 by derivative clearinghouses for the use of the Secured Overnight Funding Rate ("SOFR") in discounting, margining and price alignment for centrally cleared derivatives, including derivatives utilized in hedging relationships. ASU 2021-01 also applies to derivative contracts affected by the change in discounting convention regardless of whether they are centrally cleared (i.e., bilateral contracts can also be modified) and regardless of whether they reference LIBOR. ASU 2021-01 was effective immediately upon issuance with retroactive application permitted. FHN elected to retroactively apply the provisions of ASU 2021-01 because FHN's centrally cleared derivatives were affected by the change in discounting convention and because FHN has other bilateral derivative contracts that may be modified to conform to the use of SOFR for discounting. Adoption did not have a significant effect on FHN's reported financial condition or results of operations. All applicable asset, liability and equity instruments had transitioned from LIBOR by the end of 2024. ASU 2023-02 In March 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-02, “Accounting for Investments in Tax Credit Structures Using the Proportional Amortization Method” which permits investors to elect to account for their tax equity investments, regardless of the tax credit program from which the income tax credits are received, using the proportional amortization method if certain conditions are met. The proportional amortization method results in the cost of the investment being amortized in proportion to the income tax credits and other income tax benefits received, with the amortization of the investment and the income tax credits being presented net in the income statement as a component of income tax provision (benefit). Prior to ASU 2023-02, the proportional amortization method was only available to qualifying low income housing equity investments. An investor is required to make an accounting policy election to apply the proportional amortization method on a tax-credit-program-by-tax-credit-program basis. An investor that applies the proportional amortization method to qualifying tax equity investments must account for the receipt of the investment tax credits using the flow-through method, even if the entity applies the deferral method for other investment tax credits received. ASU 2023-02 also requires specific disclosures that must be applied to all investments that generate income tax credits and other income tax benefits from a tax credit program for which the entity has elected to apply the proportional amortization method. ASU 2023-02 was effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Adoption of ASU 2023-02 is applied on either a modified retrospective (cumulative catch up) or a retrospective (restatement of prior years) basis. FHN has assessed the applicability of ASU 2023-02 to its tax credit program equity investments, determined that its New Markets Tax Credit and Historic Tax Credit programs qualified, and made the proportional method election for them. The use of the proportional amortization method continued for FHN's Low Income Housing Tax Credits program. Upon adoption of ASU 2023-02, FHN recognized a cumulative effect adjustment that increased retained earnings by $8 million, net of tax, on January 1, 2024. The adoption of ASU 2023-02 resulted in a revision to FHN’s accounting policy for equity investments in tax credit programs. After adoption, FHN’s election to utilize the deferral method for investments that generate Investment Tax Credits is made subsequent to the determination of whether a tax credit program will apply the proportional amortization method. ASU 2023-07 In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, "Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures" that requires public entities to provide disclosures of significant segment expenses and other segment items on an annual and interim basis and to provide in interim periods all disclosures about a reportable segment's profit or loss and assets that are currently required annually. The ASU requires a public entity to disclose, for each reportable segment, the significant expense categories and amounts that are regularly provided to the chief operating decision-maker ("CODM") and included in each reported measure of a segment's profit or loss. ASU 2023-07 also requires disclosure of the title and position of the CODM and an explanation of how the CODM uses the reported measure(s) of segment profit or loss in assessing segment performance and deciding how to allocate resources. ASU 2023-07 was effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023 and for interim periods beginning after December 15, 2024. FHN adopted ASU 2023-07 as of December 31, 2024 and its requirements have been applied retrospectively to all periods presented in Note 19 — Business Segment Information. Accounting Changes Issued But Not Currently Effective ASU 2023-09 In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, "Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures" to enhance transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures. The provisions of this ASU require disaggregated information about a reporting entity's effective tax rate reconciliation in both percentages and reporting currency amounts. Certain categories of reconciling items are required by the ASU with additional categories required if a specified quantitative threshold is met. Reporting entities are also required to provide a qualitative discussion of the primary state and local jurisdictions for income taxes and the type of reconciling categories. ASU 2023-09 also requires disaggregation of income taxes paid by jurisdiction. For public business entities, ASU 2023-09 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 31, 2024. The guidance will be applied on a prospective basis with the option to apply the standard retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. FHN is currently assessing the impact of adopting ASU 2023-09 on its income tax disclosures. ASU 2024-03 In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU 2024-03, "Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses" that requires tabular disclosure, on an annual and interim basis, of additional disaggregated information about prescribed expense categories if they are present in any expense caption on the face of the income statement within continuing operations. The prescribed categories applicable to FHN are employee compensation, depreciation, and intangible asset amortization. Other required expense disclosures must be included in the tabular disclosure when they are included in the same income statement caption as a prescribed expense category. ASU 2024-03 also requires disclosure of the total amount of selling expenses and, annually, an entity’s definition of selling expenses. ASU 2024-03 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026, and for interim periods beginning after December 15, 2027. The guidance is required to be applied prospectively. Early adoption and retrospective application are permitted. FHN is currently assessing the effects of adopting ASU 2024-03 on its financial statement disclosures. SEC Final Rule In March 2024, the SEC adopted final rules, “The Enhancement and Standardization of Climate-Related Disclosures for Investors” (the “Climate Disclosures Rules”) to require registrants to disclose certain climate- related information in registration statements and annual reports. Information required for inclusion within the footnotes to the financial statements for severe weather events and other natural conditions includes 1) income statement effects before insurance recoveries above 1% of pre-tax income/loss, 2) balance sheet effects above 1% of shareholders’ equity, and 3) certain carbon offsets and renewable energy credits. Qualitative discussion is also required for material impacts on financial estimates and assumptions that are due to severe weather events and other natural conditions or disclosed climate-related targets or transition plans. In April 2024, the SEC issued a stay of the Climate Disclosures Rules pending the completion of judicial review of various legal challenges. Therefore, the actual timing of the implementation of the Climate Disclosure Rules, if sustained through the judicial process and not withdrawn by the SEC, is uncertain. FHN is assessing the potential effects of the Climate Disclosure Rules on its financial statements. |
Determination of Fair Value | Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities FHN groups its assets and liabilities measured at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value. This hierarchy requires FHN to maximize the use of observable market data, when available, and to minimize the use of unobservable inputs when determining fair value. Each fair value measurement is placed into the proper level based on the lowest level of significant input. These levels are: • Level 1 —Valuation is based upon quoted prices for identical instruments traded in active markets. • Level 2 —Valuation is based upon quoted prices for similar instruments 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. • Level 3 —Valuation is generated from model-based techniques that use significant assumptions not observable in the market. These unobservable assumptions reflect management’s estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Valuation techniques include the use of option pricing models, discounted cash flow models, and similar techniques. Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements Trading Securities - SBA interest-only strips Increases (decreases) in estimated prepayment rates and bond equivalent yields negatively (positively) affect the value of SBA interest-only strips. Management additionally considers whether the loans underlying related SBA interest-only strips are delinquent, in default or prepaying, and adjusts the fair value down 20 - 100% depending on the length of time in default. Loans held for sale Foreclosure losses and prepayment rates are significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of FHN’s residential real estate loans held for sale. Loss severity trends are also assessed to evaluate the reasonableness of fair value estimates resulting from discounted cash flows methodologies as well as to estimate fair value for newly repurchased loans and loans that are near foreclosure. Significant increases (decreases) in any of these inputs in isolation would result in significantly lower (higher) fair value measurements. All observable and unobservable inputs are re-assessed quarterly. Increases (decreases) in estimated prepayment rates and bond equivalent yields negatively (positively) affect the value of unguaranteed interests in SBA loans. Unguaranteed interest in SBA loans held for sale are carried at less than the outstanding balance due to credit risk estimates. Credit risk adjustments may be reduced if prepayment is likely, or as consistent payment history is realized. Management also considers other factors such as delinquency or default and adjusts the fair value accordingly. Derivative liabilities In conjunction with pre-2020 sales of Visa Class B shares, FHN and the purchasers entered into derivative transactions whereby FHN will make, or receive, cash payments whenever the conversion ratio of the Visa Class B shares into Visa Class A shares is adjusted. FHN uses a discounted cash flow methodology in order to estimate the fair value of FHN’s derivative liabilities associated with its prior sales of Visa Class B shares. The methodology includes estimation of both the resolution amount for Visa’s Covered Litigation matters as well as the length of time until the resolution occurs. Significant increases (decreases) in either of these inputs in isolation would result in significantly higher (lower) fair value measurements for the derivative liabilities. Additionally, FHN performs a probability weighted multiple resolution scenario to calculate the estimated fair value of these derivative liabilities. Assignment of higher (lower) probabilities to the larger potential resolution scenarios would result in an increase (decrease) in the estimated fair value of the derivative liabilities. Since this estimation process requires application of judgment in developing significant unobservable inputs used to determine the possible outcomes and the probability weighting assigned to each scenario, these derivatives have been classified within Level 3 in fair value measurements disclosures. Loans and leases and Other Real Estate Owned Collateral-dependent loans and OREO are primarily valued using appraisals based on sales of comparable properties in the same or similar markets. Other collateral (receivables, inventory, equipment, etc.) is valued through borrowing base certificates, financial statements and/or auction valuations. These valuations are discounted based on the quality of reporting, knowledge of the marketability/collectability of the collateral and historical disposition rates. Other assets – tax credit investments Prior to 2024, the estimated fair value of tax credit investments accounted for under the equity method was generally determined in relation to the yield (i.e., future tax credits to be received) an acquirer of these investments expected in relation to the yields experienced on current new issue and/or secondary market transactions. Thus, as tax credits were recognized, the future yield to a market participant was reduced, resulting in consistent impairment of the individual investments. Individual investments were reviewed for impairment quarterly, which included the consideration of additional marketability discounts related to specific investments which typically included consideration of the underlying property’s appraised value. Fair Value Option FHN previously elected the fair value option on a prospective basis for substantially all types of mortgage loans originated for sale purposes. FHN determined that the election reduces certain timing differences and better matches changes in the value of such loans with changes in the value of derivatives and forward delivery commitments used as economic hedges for these assets at the time of election. Repurchased loans relating to mortgage banking operations conducted prior to the IBKC merger are recognized within loans held for sale at fair value at the time of repurchase, which includes consideration of the credit status of the loans and the estimated liquidation value. FHN has elected to continue recognition of these loans at fair value in periods subsequent to reacquisition. Due to the credit-distressed nature of the vast majority of repurchased loans and the related loss severities experienced upon repurchase, FHN believes that the fair value election provides a more timely recognition of changes in value for these loans that occur subsequent to repurchase. Absent the fair value election, these loans would be subject to valuation at the LOCOM value, which would prevent subsequent values from exceeding the initial fair value, determined at the time of repurchase, but would require recognition of subsequent declines in value. Thus, the fair value election provides for a more timely recognition of any potential future recoveries in asset values while not affecting the requirement to recognize subsequent declines in value. Determination of Fair Value Fair values are based on the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The following describes the assumptions and methodologies used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments recorded at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and for estimating the fair value of financial instruments for which fair value is disclosed. Short-term financial assets Federal funds sold, securities purchased under agreements to resell, and interest-bearing deposits with other financial institutions and the Federal Reserve are carried at historical cost. The carrying amount is a reasonable estimate of fair value because of the relatively short time between the origination of the instrument and its expected realization. Trading securities and trading liabilities Trading securities and trading liabilities are recognized at fair value through current earnings. Trading inventory held for broker-dealer operations is included in trading securities and trading liabilities. Broker-dealer long positions are valued at bid price in the bid-ask spread. Short positions are valued at the ask price. Inventory positions are valued using observable inputs including current market transactions, benchmark yields, credit spreads, and consensus prepayment speeds. Trading loans are valued using observable inputs including current market transactions, swap rates, mortgage rates, and consensus prepayment speeds. Trading securities - SBA interest-only strips Interest-only strips are valued at fair value based on an income approach using an internal valuation model. The internal valuation model includes assumptions regarding projections of future cash flows, prepayment rates, default rates and interest-only strip terms. These securities bear the risk of loan prepayment or default that may result in FHN not recovering all or a portion of its recorded investment. When appropriate, valuations are adjusted for various factors including default or prepayment status of the underlying SBA loans. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuation, those estimated values may be higher or lower than the values that would have been used had a ready market for the securities existed and may change in the near term. Securities available for sale and held to maturity Valuations of debt securities are performed using observable inputs obtained from market transactions in similar securities. Typical inputs include benchmark yields, consensus prepayment speeds, and credit spreads. Trades from similar securities and broker quotes are used to support these valuations. Loans held for sale FHN determines the fair value of loans held for sale using either current transaction prices or discounted cash flow models. Fair values are determined using current transaction prices and/or values on similar assets when available, including committed bids for specific loans or loan portfolios. Uncommitted bids may be adjusted based on other available market information. The fair value of residential real estate loans held for sale is determined using a discounted cash flow model that incorporates both observable and unobservable inputs. Inputs in the discounted cash flow model include current mortgage rates for similar products, estimated prepayment rates, foreclosure losses, and various loan performance measures (delinquency, LTV, credit score). Adjustments for delinquency and other differences in loan characteristics are typically reflected in the model’s discount rates. Loss severity trends and the value of underlying collateral are also considered in assessing the appropriate fair value for severely delinquent loans and loans in foreclosure. The valuation of HELOCs also incorporates estimated cancellation rates for loans expected to become delinquent. Non-mortgage consumer loans held for sale are valued using committed bids for specific loans or loan portfolios or current market pricing for similar assets with adjustments for differences in credit standing (delinquency, historical default rates for similar loans), yield, collateral values and prepayment rates. If pricing for similar assets is not available, a discounted cash flow methodology is utilized, which incorporates all of these factors into an estimate of investor required yield for the discount rate. FHN utilizes quoted market prices of similar instruments or broker and dealer quotations to value the SBA and USDA guaranteed loans. FHN values SBA-unguaranteed interests in loans held for sale based on individual loan characteristics, such as industry type and pay history which generally follows an income approach. Furthermore, these valuations are adjusted for changes in prepayment estimates and are reduced due to restrictions on trading. The fair value of other non-residential real estate loans held for sale is approximated by their carrying values based on current transaction values. Mortgage loans held for investment at fair value option The fair value of mortgage loans held for investment at fair value option is determined by a third party using a discounted cash flow model using various assumptions about future loan performance (constant prepayment rate, constant default rate and loss severity trends) and market discount rates. Loans held for investment The fair values of mortgage loans are estimated using an exit price methodology that is based on present values using the interest rate that would be charged for a similar loan to a borrower with similar risk, weighted for varying maturity dates and adjusted for a liquidity discount based on the estimated time period to complete a sale transaction with a market participant. Other loans and leases are valued based on present values using the interest rate that would be charged for a similar instrument to a borrower with similar risk, applicable to each category of instruments, and adjusted for a liquidity discount based on the estimated time period to complete a sale transaction with a market participant. For loans measured using the estimated fair value of collateral less costs to sell, fair value is estimated using appraisals of the collateral. Collateral values are monitored and additional write-downs are recognized if it is determined that the estimated collateral values have declined further. Estimated costs to sell are based on current amounts of disposal costs for similar assets. Carrying value is considered to reflect fair value for these loans. Derivative assets and liabilities The fair value for forwards and futures contracts is based on current transactions involving identical securities. Futures contracts are exchange-traded and thus have no credit risk factor assigned as the risk of non-performance is limited to the clearinghouse used. Valuations of other derivatives (primarily interest rate contracts) are based on inputs observed in active markets for similar instruments. Typical inputs include benchmark yields, option volatility and option skew. Centrally cleared derivatives are discounted using SOFR as required by clearinghouses. In measuring the fair value of these derivative assets and liabilities, FHN has elected to consider credit risk based on the net exposure to individual counterparties. Credit risk is mitigated for these instruments through the use of mutual margining and master netting agreements as well as collateral posting requirements. For derivative contracts with daily cash margin requirements that are considered settlements, the daily margin amount is netted within derivative assets or liabilities. Any remaining credit risk related to interest rate derivatives is considered in determining fair value through evaluation of additional factors such as client loan grades and debt ratings. Foreign currency related derivatives also utilize observable exchange rates in the determination of fair value. The determination of fair value for FHN’s derivative liabilities associated with its prior sales of Visa Class B shares are classified within Level 3 in the fair value measurements disclosure as previously discussed in the unobservable inputs discussion. The fair value of risk participations is determined in reference to the fair value of the related derivative contract between the borrower and the lead bank in the participation structure, which is determined consistent with the valuation process discussed above. This value is adjusted for the pro rata portion of the reference derivative’s notional value and an assessment of credit risk for the referenced borrower. OREO OREO primarily consists of properties that have been acquired in satisfaction of debt. These properties are carried at the lower of the outstanding loan amount or estimated fair value less estimated costs to sell the real estate. Estimated fair value is determined using appraised values with subsequent adjustments for deterioration in values that are not reflected in the most recent appraisal. Other assets For disclosure purposes, other assets consist of tax credit investments, FRB and FHLB Stock, deferred compensation mutual funds and equity investments (including other mutual funds) with readily determinable fair values. For periods prior to 2024, tax credit investments accounted for under the equity method were written down to estimated fair value quarterly based on the estimated value of the associated tax credits which incorporated estimates of required yield for hypothetical investors. Subsequent to 2023, the fair value of tax credit investments is estimated using recent transaction information with adjustments for differences in individual investments. Deferred compensation mutual funds are recognized at fair value, which is based on quoted prices in active markets. Investments in the stock of the Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Banks are recognized at historical cost in the Consolidated Balance Sheets which is considered to approximate fair value. Investments in mutual funds are measured at the funds’ reported closing net asset values. Investments in equity securities are valued using quoted market prices when available. Defined maturity deposits The fair value of these deposits is estimated by discounting future cash flows to their present value. Future cash flows are discounted by using the current market rates of similar instruments applicable to the remaining maturity. For disclosure purposes, defined maturity deposits include all time deposits. Short-term financial liabilities The fair value of federal funds purchased, securities sold under agreements to repurchase, and other short-term borrowings are approximated by the book value. The carrying amount is a reasonable estimate of fair value because of the relatively short time between the origination of the instrument and its expected realization. Loan commitments Fair values of these commitments are based on fees charged to enter into similar agreements taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the counterparties’ credit standing. Other commitments Fair values of these commitments are based on fees charged to enter into similar agreements. The following fair value estimates are determined as of a specific point in time utilizing various assumptions and estimates. The use of assumptions and various valuation techniques, as well as the absence of secondary markets for certain financial instruments, reduces the comparability of fair value disclosures between financial institutions. Due to market illiquidity, the fair values for loans and leases, loans held for sale, and term borrowings as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 involve the use of significant internally developed pricing assumptions for certain components of these line items. The assumptions and valuations utilized for this disclosure are considered to reflect inputs that market participants would use in transactions involving these instruments as of the measurement date. The valuations of legacy assets, particularly consumer loans and TRUPs loans within the Corporate segment, are influenced by changes in economic conditions since origination and risk perceptions of the financial sector. These considerations affect the estimate of a potential acquirer’s cost of capital and cash flow volatility assumptions from these assets and the resulting fair value measurements may depart significantly from FHN’s internal estimates of the intrinsic value of these assets. Assets and liabilities that are not financial instruments — such as premises and equipment, goodwill, other intangible assets such as the value of long-term relationships with deposit and trust clients, deferred taxes, and certain other assets and other liabilities — have not been included in the following table. Additionally, the fair value measurements presented in the following table are solely for financial instruments as of the measurement date and do not consider the earnings potential of our various business lines. Accordingly, the total of the fair value amounts does not represent, and should not be construed to represent, the underlying value of FHN. |