Robust earnings, despite margin pressures Historically stable asset quality Well-developed, performance-focused culture Pressured net interest margin, stemming from asset/liability mismatch Exposure to slower growth Midwestern markets, which could affect asset quality Increased leverage The ratings on Fifth Third Bancorp (Fifth Third) reflect the bank's still strong financial performance. Despite deterioration in several categories, specifically profitability and capitalization, Fifth Third's financial performance continues to compare favorably with that of its similarly rated regional bank peers. Fifth Third's historical superior profitability relative to peers has narrowed, but has not altogether vanished. Similarly, tangible capital levels, which were once a source of significant strength relative to peers, are now in line with that of peers. By most metrics, Fifth Third's profitability compares well
