Market Newsdesk

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 04, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ceylon Graphite Corp. (“Ceylon Graphite” or the “Company”)(TSX-V: CYL) (OTC: CYLYF) (FSE: CCY) is pleased to announce that Bharat Parashar, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and Sasha Jacob, Founder and Strategic Advisor of the Company will be hosting an investor webinar on Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at 12:00 PM EST. The webinar will provide participants an overview of the Company, its exciting recent developments as it accelerates production of its high grade graphite deposits as well as detail on how the Company is positioned to be a significant participant in the high-growth electric vehicle and battery storage markets.

A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on the image or link below:

Ceylon Graphite Corp.: Media Snippet

Webinar Registration Details:


When: Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at 12:00 PM EST
Registration link: https://my.6ix.com/DveBYPHa

Bharat Parashar, Chief Executive Officer said: “I encourage existing and potential investors to participate in this interactive meeting so that they may have the opportunity to learn more about Ceylon Graphite and the unique investment opportunity the Company presents. Graphite currently impacts our daily lives in many ways and will become even more important in the years to come as the world goes green and electric vehicles and battery storage gain further adoption.”

Upcoming Virtual Conferences


Ceylon Graphite will be presenting at the following virtual investor conference in the new year and welcomes anyone interested to reach out for meeting requests and/or presentation details.

Virtual Metals Investor Forum

January 14-15, 2021
https://www.metalsinvestorforum.com/conferences/metals-investor-forum-january-2020/

Mines and Money Online Global Conference

March 23-25, 2021
https://minesandmoney.com/online/march/

About Ceylon Graphite Corp.

Ceylon Graphite is a public company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange, that is in the business of mining for graphite, plus the exploration for and development of graphite mines in Sri Lanka. Graphite mined in Sri Lanka is known to be some of the highest grade in the world and has been confirmed to be suitable to be easily upgradable for a range of applications including the high-growth electric vehicle and battery storage markets. The Government of Sri Lanka has granted the Company’s wholly own subsidiary Sarcon Development (Pvt) Ltd. an IML Category A license for its K1 site and exploration rights in a land package of over 120km². These exploration grids (each one square kilometer in area) cover areas of historic graphite production from the early twentieth century and represent a majority of the known graphite occurrences in Sri Lanka.

Further information regarding the Company is available at www.ceylongraphite.com

Bharat Parashar, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
[email protected]
Corporate Communications
+1(202)352-6022

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS:

This news release contains forward-looking information as such term is defined in applicable securities laws, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management’s current expectations and assumptions. The forward-looking information includes statements about Ceylon Graphite’s grids, Ceylon Graphite’s plans to undertake additional drilling and to develop a mine plan, and to commence establishing mining operations. Such forward-looking statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to Ceylon Graphite, including the assumption that, there will be no material adverse change in metal prices, all necessary consents, licenses, permits and approvals will be obtained, including various Local Government Licenses and the market. Investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. Risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by the forward-looking information include, among other things, an inability to reach a final acquisition agreement, inaccurate results from the drilling exercises, a failure to obtain or delays in obtaining the required regulatory licenses, permits, approvals and consents, an inability to access financing as needed, a general economic downturn, a volatile stock price, labour strikes, political unrest, changes in the mining regulatory regime governing Ceylon Graphite, a failure to comply with environmental regulations and a weakening of market and industry reliance on high quality graphite. Ceylon Graphite cautions the reader that the above list of risk factors is not exhaustive.

These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, Ceylon Graphite does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedar.com)

 

WASHINGTON, Dec. 04, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FTI Consulting, Inc. (NYSE: FCN), today announced that on December 3, 2020, FTI Consulting’s Board of Directors authorized the additional amount of $200.0 million to repurchase its outstanding shares of common stock under its stock repurchase program. As of December 2, 2020, FTI Consulting has repurchased approximately 10.2 million shares of its outstanding common stock pursuant to its stock repurchase program at an average price per share of $65.31 for an aggregate cost of approximately $669.5 million. After giving effect to share repurchases through that date and the increased authorization, FTI Consulting has approximately $230.5 million remaining available for common stock repurchases under its program. No time limit has been established for the completion of FTI Consulting’s stock repurchase program, and the program may be suspended, discontinued or replaced by the Board at any time without prior notice.

Under its stock repurchase program, FTI Consulting may repurchase common shares in open-market purchases or by any other method in accordance with applicable securities laws and regulations. The specific timing and amount of repurchases will be determined by FTI Consulting’s management, in its discretion, and will vary based on market conditions, securities law limitations and other factors. The repurchases may be funded using available cash on hand or a combination of cash and available borrowings under FTI Consulting’s senior secured revolving bank credit facility.

About FTI Consulting

FTI Consulting, Inc. is a global business advisory firm dedicated to helping organizations manage change, mitigate risk and resolve disputes: financial, legal, operational, political & regulatory, reputational and transactional. With more than 6,200 employees located in 28 countries, FTI Consulting professionals work closely with clients to anticipate, illuminate and overcome complex business challenges and make the most of opportunities. The Company generated $2.35 billion in revenues during fiscal year 2019. More information can be found at www.fticonsulting.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which involve uncertainties and risks. Forward-looking statements include statements, without limitation, regarding plans for
common stock
repurchases. When used in this press release, words such as “estimates,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “plans,” “intends,” “believes,” “forecasts,” “may” and variations of such words or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are based upon FTI Consulting’s expectations at the time it makes them and various assumptions. FTI Consulting’s expectations, beliefs and
projections are expressed in good faith, and it believes there is a reasonable basis for them. However, there can be no assurance that management’s plans, expectations or forecasts will be achieved. Factors that could cause changes to FTI Consulting’s plans, expectations or forecasts include risks described under the heading “Item 1A Risk Factors” in FTI Consulting’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2020 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on April 30, 2020 and Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 filed with the SEC on February 25, 2020, and in FTI Consulting’s other filings with the SEC. FTI Consulting is under no duty to update any of the forward looking statements to conform such statements to actual results or events and does not intend to do so.

FTI Consulting, Inc.
555 12th Street NW 
Washington, DC 
20004
+1.202.312.9100

Investor & Media Contact:
Mollie Hawkes
+1.617.747.1791 
[email protected] 

The financial information reported herein is based on the condensed interim consolidated (unaudited) information for the three-month period ended October 31, 2020, and on the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended October 31, 2020, and has been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting standards (IFRS), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). All amounts are denominated in Canadian dollars. The Laurentian Bank of Canada and its entities are collectively referred to as Laurentian Bank Financial Group (the “Group” or the “Bank”) and provide deposit, investment, loan, securities, trust and other products or services. The Bank’s 2020 Annual Report (which includes the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying Management’s Discussion & Analysis) will be available today on the Laurentian Bank Financial Group’s website at www.lbcfg.ca and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com

“I want to convey my personal thanks and immense appreciation to our employees for their efforts in serving our customers and this organization during what has been a challenging year for Laurentian Bank and for Canadians in general,” said Rania Llewellyn, President and Chief Executive Officer. “While the economic uncertainty caused by the pandemic remains in place, challenges can bring about positive change. We are actively engaging in the process of renewal and growth within our organization. Looking ahead to 2021, we will be resetting our priorities, refocusing our efforts, and renewing the passion and pride of our employees to believe in, and serve as, One Bank to provide long-term sustainable value to our customers, our communities and our shareholders.”  

Highlights
of
2020

• Adjusted net income⁽¹⁾ of $138.2 million for 2020, compared to $193.2 million for 2019.
• Reported net income of $114.1 million for 2020, compared to $172.7 million for 2019.
• Provision for credit losses of $116.3 million for 2020, impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity⁽¹⁾ of 5.5%, and return on common shareholders’ equity of 4.4%.
• Adjusted efficiency ratio⁽¹⁾ of 72.3%, and reported efficiency ratio of 75.6%.
• Net interest margin up 3 basis points year-over-year.
• Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio at 9.6%.

Highlights
of
fourth quarter 2020

• Adjusted net income⁽¹⁾ of $42.3 million, and reported net income of $36.8 million.
• Adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity⁽¹⁾ of 6.8%, and reported return on common shareholders’ equity of 5.9%.
• Adjusted efficiency ratio⁽¹⁾ of 69.9%, and reported efficiency ratio of 72.9%.
• Appointment of Rania Llewellyn as President and Chief Executive Officer.

	For the three months ended												For the year ended
In thousands of Canadian dollars, except when noted (Unaudited)	October 31 2020				October 31 2019				Variance				October 31 2020				October 31 2019				Variance
Reported basis
Net income	$	36.8			$	41.3			(11	)	%		$	114.1			$	172.7			(34	)	%
Diluted earnings per share	$	0.79			$	0.90			(12	)	%		$	2.37			$	3.77			(37	)	%
Return on common shareholders’ equity	5.9		%		6.6		%						4.4		%		7.0		%
Efficiency ratio	72.9		%		74.8		%						75.6		%		75.0		%
Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio	9.6		%		9.0		%
Adjusted basis (1)
Adjusted net income	$	42.3			$	48.0			(12	)	%		$	138.2			$	193.2			(28	)	%
Adjusted diluted earnings per share	$	0.91			$	1.05			(13	)	%		$	2.93			$	4.26			(31	)	%
Adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity	6.8		%		7.8		%						5.5		%		7.9		%
Adjusted efficiency ratio	69.9		%		71.2		%						72.3		%		72.3		%

(1)	Certain measures presented throughout this document exclude amounts designated as adjusting items and are Non-GAAP measures. Refer to the Non-GAAP measures section for further details

MONTREAL, Dec. 04, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Laurentian Bank Financial Group reported net income of $114.1 million or $2.37 diluted per share for the year ended October 31, 2020, compared with $172.7 million or $3.77 diluted per share for the year ended October 31, 2019. Return on common shareholders’ equity was 4.4% for the year ended October 31, 2020, compared with 7.0% for the year ended October 31, 2019. On an adjusted basis, net income totaled $138.2 million or $2.93 diluted per share for the year ended October 31, 2020, down from $193.2 million or $4.26 diluted per share for the year ended October 31, 2019. Adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity was 5.5% for the year ended October 31, 2020, compared with 7.9% a year ago.

For the fourth quarter of 2020, net income was $36.8 million and diluted earnings per share were $0.79, compared with $41.3 million and $0.90 for the fourth quarter of 2019. Return on common shareholders’ equity was 5.9% for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared with 6.6% for the fourth quarter of 2019. On an adjusted basis, net income was $42.3 million and diluted earnings per share were $0.91 for the fourth quarter of 2020, down from $48.0 million and $1.05 for the fourth quarter of 2019. Adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity was 6.8% for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared with 7.8% a year ago. Reported results include adjusting items, as detailed in the Non-GAAP and Key Performance Measures section.

Organizational changes

We are making several important changes to our executive team and organization. Stéphane Therrien’s has announced his decision to retire from the Bank at the end of December. Stéphane has been a valued leader at Laurentian Bank for more than nine years. We thank him for his significant contributions to the Bank and wish him well for the future. With Stephane’s departure, we will also be implementing a re-organization of Commercial and Personal Banking into two distinct operating units.

We are pleased to announce that Eric Provost, Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking, and President of LBC Capital, has been appointed as Executive Vice President of Commercial Banking, effective January 1, 2021. This promotion is a testament to Eric’s many successes during his more than eight years at Laurentian Bank, during which time he played a pivotal role in several recent acquisitions, including the Canadian operations of CIT and Northpoint Commercial Finance.

Personal Banking will include the Québec branch network, Digital Banking and B2B Bank under a “One Retail” operating unit. We will be formally launching a search for a new Head of Personal Banking, who will be based in Québec.

Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic

In early 2020, COVID-19 had spread worldwide and was declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization. The unprecedented nature of COVID-19 has adversely impacted the global economy throughout 2020 and the second wave, that began in the Fall, is raising concerns as we enter 2021. In this context, our response to the pandemic to date has enabled us to keep our employees and our customers safe. Furthermore, the measures we put in place have also provided the foundation to support our operations in this period of heightened uncertainty. Our liquidity and capital position continues to offer the required flexibility to allow us to support our customers through this difficult period. COVID-19 has had an impact on financial performance since March 2020, and, as a result, improvements in certain of our businesses were overshadowed by a significant increase in provision for credit losses. Nonetheless, we remain cautiously optimistic about the future as the economy has shown resilience to date in progressively adapting to this new reality.

Highlights

	For the three months ended																						For the year ended
In thousands of Canadian dollars, except when noted (Unaudited)	October 31 2020					July 31 2020				Variance				October 31 2019					Variance				October 31 2020					October 31 2019					Variance
Operating results
Total revenue	$	243,539				$	248,609			(2	)	%		$	241,638				1		%		$	971,009				$	968,510				—		%
Net income	$	36,811				$	36,217			2		%		$	41,343				(11	)	%		$	114,085				$	172,710				(34	)	%
Adjusted net income(1)	$	42,311				$	47,083			(10	)	%		$	47,966				(12	)	%		$	138,206				$	193,227				(28	)	%
Operating performance
Diluted earnings per share	$	0.79				$	0.77			3		%		$	0.90				(12	)	%		$	2.37				$	3.77				(37	)	%
Adjusted diluted earnings per share(1)	$	0.91				$	1.02			(11	)	%		$	1.05				(13	)	%		$	2.93				$	4.26				(31	)	%
Return on common shareholders’ equity	5.9			%		5.8		%						6.6			%						4.4			%		7.0			%
Adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity(1)	6.8			%		7.7		%						7.8			%						5.5			%		7.9			%
Net interest margin	1.82			%		1.86		%						1.84			%						1.84			%		1.81			%
Efficiency ratio	72.9			%		73.9		%						74.8			%						75.6			%		75.0			%
Adjusted efficiency ratio(1)	69.9			%		68.1		%						71.2			%						72.3			%		72.3			%
Operating leverage	1.3			%		3.4		%						(2.9		)	%						(0.7		)	%		(8.5		)	%
Adjusted operating leverage(1)	(2.7		)	%		9.3		%						(0.9		)	%						—			%		(7.8		)	%
Financial position ($ millions)
Loans and acceptances	$	33,193				$	32,807			1		%		$	33,667				(1	)	%
Total assets	$	44,168				$	44,295			—		%		$	44,353				—		%
Deposits	$	23,920				$	24,570			(3	)	%		$	25,653				(7	)	%
Common shareholders’ equity	$	2,324				$	2,292			1		%		$	2,303				1		%
Key growth drivers ($ millions)
Loans to Business customers	$	12,730				$	12,704			—		%		$	12,966				(2	)	%
Loans to Personal customers(2)	$	20,463				$	20,103			2		%		$	20,700				(1	)	%
Deposits from clients(3)	$	21,436				$	22,045			(3	)	%		$	22,518				(5	)	%
Basel III regulatory capital ratios
Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio(4)	9.6			%		9.4		%						9.0			%
CET1 risk-weighted assets ($ millions)	$	19,669				$	19,927							$	20,407
Credit quality
Gross impaired loans as a % of loans and acceptances	0.82			%		0.84		%						0.52			%
Net impaired loans as a % of loans and acceptances	0.59			%		0.62		%						0.40			%
Provision for credit losses as a % of average loans and acceptances	0.29			%		0.27		%						0.15			%						0.35			%		0.13			%
Common share information
Closing share price(5)	$	26.21				$	26.55			(1	)	%		$	45.30				(42	)	%		$	26.21				$	45.30				(42	)	%
Price / earnings ratio (trailing four quarters)	11.1			x		10.7		x						12.0			x						11.1			x		12.0			x
Book value per share	$	53.74				$	53.15			1		%		$	54.02				(1	)	%		$	53.74				$	54.02				(1	)	%
Dividends declared per share	$	0.40				$	0.40			—		%		$	0.66				(39	)	%		$	2.14				$	2.62				(18	)	%
Dividend yield	6.1			%		6.0		%						5.8			%						8.2			%		5.8			%
Dividend payout ratio	50.8			%		52.0		%						73.5			%						90.2			%		69.3			%
Adjusted dividend payout ratio(1)	43.7			%		39.1		%						62.6			%						72.9			%		61.4			%

(1)	Refer to the Non-GAAP Measures section.
(2)	Including personal loans and residential mortgage loans.
(3)	Including personal deposits from the Quebec Retail Network, the Advisors and Brokers channel, the Digital Direct to Customers offering and from Business customers.
(4)	Using the Standardized Approach in determining credit risk and operational risk.
(5)	Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) closing market price.

Medium-Term Performance Targets
–
Retrospective

The following table shows the medium-term performance targets that were set a year ago and the Bank’s performance for 2020. These targets will be reviewed as further detailed below. These medium-term performance targets depend on a number of assumptions, as detailed in our 2019 Annual Report under the heading “Outlook”.

In billions of Canadian dollars, except per share and percentage amounts (Unaudited)	Three-year 2022 Mid-term Targets(1)		2020				2019					Variance 2020/2019
Adjusted financial performance (2)
Adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity	Narrow gap to 250 bps(3)		5.5		%		7.9			%		Current gap at 630 bps
Adjusted efficiency ratio	<63%		72.3		%		72.3			%		—		%
Adjusted diluted earnings per share	Grow by 5% to 10% annually		$	2.93			$	4.26				(31	)	%
Adjusted operating leverage	Positive		—		%		(7.8		)	%		n.m.
Key growth drivers
Loans to Business customers	Grow to $17.5 B		$	12.7			$	13.0				(2	)	%
Loans to Personal customers(4)	Grow to $22.5 B		$	20.5			$	20.7				(1	)	%
Deposits from clients(5)	Grow to $26.0 B		$	21.4			$	22.5				(5	)	%

(1)	Mid-term targets, as set out in the 2019 Annual Report.
(2)	The 2022 financial objectives are based on non-GAAP measures that exclude adjusting items related to restructuring plans and to business combinations. Refer to the Non-GAAP and Key Performance Measures section.
(3)	Compared to the major Canadian banks, based on the Bank using the AIRB approach in determining credit risk and the Standardized approach in determining operational risk. The current gap is based on the average of major Canadian banks for the nine months ended July 31, 2020.
(4)	Including personal loans and residential mortgage loans.
(5)	Including personal deposits from the Quebec Retail Network, the Advisors and Brokers channel, the Digital Direct to Customers offering and from Business customers.

2020


p


erformance


summary

The financial impact of COVID-19, as of the second quarter of 2020, hampered our ability to deliver on most of our performance targets. Higher expected credit losses, primarily driven by the severe economic conditions, and lower interest income as a result of a decrease in certain targeted loan portfolios, contributed to lower performance, despite improved results from market driven activities in the second half of 2020 and the stabilization of expenses. Deposits from clients also decreased, as a result of lower loan levels and funding optimization measures. However, personal demand deposits increased by 27% over the last twelve months. Adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity was 5.5% in 2020 compared with 7.9% in fiscal 2019, and the ROE gap relative to the major Canadian banks was 630 bps. Adjusted diluted earnings per share of $2.93 for 2020 were down 31% year-over-year. The adjusted efficiency ratio of 72.3% for 2020 remained unchanged as compared to the 2019 level as both revenues and expenses finished the year at similar levels.

Reshaping the Bank for tomorrow

On October 30, 2020, Rania Llewellyn was appointed as President and Chief Executive Officer, and as a director of the Bank. Ms. Llewellyn brings more than 25 years of experience in the banking sector and is looking forward to pursuing opportunities to reshape the Bank for tomorrow.

In the coming months the management team will establish a renewed strategic direction for Laurentian Bank. As part of this review and in consideration of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bank’s 2022 mid-term objectives will be revised or replaced.

Update on
K
ey
I
nitiatives

Over the past few years, we launched major initiatives with the objective of building a stronger foundation and modernizing the Bank in order to improve financial performance. The following section provides an update on these key projects.

Digital offering

In the first quarter of 2020, we launched LBC Digital, a direct-to-customer channel, expanding our customer reach from coast to coast. The initial digital offering includes chequing accounts, high-interest savings accounts and guaranteed investment certificates. This pan-Canadian launch provided us with the opportunity to welcome thousands of new customers. Over time, our goal is to broaden and deepen customer relationships and use this platform to build out a high-value and complete product suite. As at October 31, 2020, LBC Digital related demand deposits stood at $0.6 billion.

Core-banking system replacement program

In 2019, we completed Phase 1 of the core banking system replacement program resulting in the migration of all B2B Bank products and most of our loans to business customers to this new system. Given the impacts of COVID-19 on our business and following the recent change in management, we are currently reassessing the next phase of this project. Our latest estimate had set the project costs at approximately $250 million and, as at October 31, 2020, we had invested about 80% of that amount.

Evolution of 100% Advice model

In 2020, we completed the conversion of our traditional branch network to a 100% Advice model. Based on the evolving needs of our customers, this new operating model provides the right balance to serve the daily needs of our customers through electronic and phone solutions, as well as to focus on professional financial advice for more complex banking and investment needs. We will continue to right-size our branch network and gradually modify its design to be aligned with our 100% Advice model. All branch employees will now be 100% focused on advising customers on improving their financial health.

Advanced internal ratings-based approach to credit risk

As part of our plan to improve the Bank’s foundation, we pursued our initiative to adopt, subject to regulatory approval, the AIRB approach to credit risk throughout 2020. Given the impacts of COVID-19 on our business and following the recent change in management, we are currently reassessing this initiative and its timeline. Based on our latest assessment, we are not expecting to complete the process prior to the end of 2023.

Update o
n
E
fficiency
M
easures

Since 2019, we have been identifying opportunities to improve our efficiency. The conversion of our traditional branches to a 100% Advice model and the optimization of certain back-office functions in 2019 resulted in significant savings. As we entered 2020, we maintained our focus on improving efficiency. We merged 20 retail branches during the year (six in the fourth quarter). These measures are also attributed to recent changes in the economic landscape and the ongoing reduction in the number of customer branch visits. Customers will continue to be served by our Quebec Retail Network with locations that are reasonably proximate to converted branch locations. In May 2020, we also reduced headcount by approximately 100 people through attrition, retirement and targeted job reductions in order to realign our workforce with our operational needs, and provide leverage to improve efficiency. These measures resulted in restructuring charges of $18.3 million in 2020, which included severance charges and charges related to lease contracts.

Con
s
olidated Results

Non-GAAP measures

Management uses both generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and non-GAAP measures to assess the Bank’s performance. Results prepared in accordance with GAAP are referred to as “reported” results. Non-GAAP measures presented throughout this document are referred to as “adjusted” measures and exclude amounts designated as adjusting items. Adjusting items relate to restructuring plans and to business combinations and have been designated as such as management does not believe they are indicative of underlying business performance. Non-GAAP measures are considered useful to readers in obtaining a better understanding of how management analyzes the Bank’s results and in assessing underlying business performance and related trends. Non-GAAP measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and are unlikely to be comparable to any similar measures presented by other issuers.

The following table shows adjusting items and their impact on reported results.

	For the three months ended												For the year ended
In thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts (Unaudited)	October 31 2020				July 31 2020				October 31 2019				October 31 2020				October 31 2019
Impact on income before income taxes
Reported income before income taxes	$	41,647			$	42,405			$	47,926			$	120,284			$	196,165
Adjusting items, before income taxes
Restructuring charges(1)
Severance charges	2,253				7,047				1,735				12,321				6,474
Other restructuring charges	1,909				4,020				3,696				5,968				6,205
	4,162				11,067				5,431				18,289				12,679
Items related to business combinations
Amortization of net premium on purchased financial instruments(2)	100				127				284				638				1,452
Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets(3)	3,180				3,520				3,416				13,641				13,711
	3,280				3,647				3,700				14,279				15,163
	7,442				14,714				9,131				32,568				27,842
Adjusted income before income taxes	$	49,089			$	57,119			$	57,057			$	152,852			$	224,007
Impact on net income
Reported net income	$	36,811			$	36,217			$	41,343			$	114,085			$	172,710
Adjusting items, net of income taxes
Restructuring charges(1)
Severance charges	1,659				5,178				1,274				9,057				4,752
Other restructuring charges	1,402				2,955				2,712				4,386				4,554
	3,061				8,133				3,986				13,443				9,306
Items related to business combinations
Amortization of net premium on purchased financial instruments(2)	77				93				209				472				1,067
Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets(3)	2,362				2,640				2,428				10,206				10,144
	2,439				2,733				2,637				10,678				11,211
	5,500				10,866				6,623				24,121				20,517
Adjusted net income	$	42,311			$	47,083			$	47,966			$	138,206			$	193,227
Impact on diluted earnings per share
Reported diluted earnings per share	$	0.79			$	0.77			$	0.90			$	2.37			$	3.77
Adjusting items
Restructuring charges(1)	0.07				0.19				0.09				0.31				0.22
Items related to business combinations	0.06				0.06				0.06				0.25				0.27
	0.13				0.25				0.15				0.56				0.49
Adjusted diluted earnings per share(4)	$	0.91			$	1.02			$	1.05			$	2.93			$	4.26

(1)	Restructuring and charges mainly result from the optimization of our Quebec Retail Network operations and the related streamlining of certain back-office and corporate functions. Restructuring charges also result from the reorganization of retail brokerage activities and other measures aimed at improving efficiency. Restructuring charges include severance charges, salaries, provisions, communication expenses and professional fees and charges related to lease contracts. Restructuring charges are included in Non-interest expenses.
(2)	Amortization of net premium on purchased financial instruments results from a one-time gain on a business acquisition in 2012 and is included in the Amortization of net premium on purchased financial instruments line item.
(3)	Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets results from business acquisitions and is included in the Non-interest expenses line item.
(4)	The impact of adjusting items on a per share basis may not add due to rounding.

Three months ended October 31, 2020


compared with th


ree months ended


O


ctober 31,2019

Net income was $36.8 million and diluted earnings per share were $0.79 for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared with $41.3 million and $0.90 for the fourth quarter of 2019. Adjusted net income was $42.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, down 12% from $48.0 million for the fourth quarter of 2019, while adjusted diluted earnings per share were $0.91, down 13% compared with $1.05 for the fourth quarter of 2019.

Total revenue

Total revenue was $243.5 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, up 1% compared with $241.6 million for the fourth quarter of 2019.

Net interest income decreased by $3.9 million to $169.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared with $173.2 million for the fourth quarter of 2019. The decrease was mainly due to a year-over-year decrease in higher margin loan volumes, mainly as a result of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on inventory financing activities, partly offset by improved funding costs. For the fourth quarter of 2020, the adoption of IFRS 16, Leases as of November 1, 2019 added $1.2 million to interest expenses related to the new lease liabilities and impacted net interest margin negatively by 1 basis point. Net interest margin was 1.82% for the fourth quarter of 2020, a decrease of 2 basis points compared with the fourth quarter of 2019, essentially for the same reasons.

Other income increased by $5.8 million or 8% to $74.2 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared with $68.4 million for the fourth quarter of 2019. The increase was mainly due to the strong contribution from capital market activities, which improved by $10.3 million compared with the fourth quarter of 2019. Other income for the fourth quarter of 2020 also included a net gain of $1.1 million on a securitization of a mortgage loan portfolio. This was partly offset by a decrease in service charges due to the ongoing changes to the retail banking environment and the related customers’ banking behaviour, as well as by a decrease in VISA card service revenues stemming from lower transaction volumes as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Amortization of net premium on purchased financial instruments

For the fourth quarter of 2020, amortization of net premium on purchased financial instruments amounted to $0.1 million, compared with $0.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2019. Refer to the 2020 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Provision for credit losses

The provision for credit losses amounted to $24.2 million for the fourth quarter of 2020 compared with $12.6 million for the fourth quarter of 2019, an increase of $11.6 million. The increase is mainly resulting from our revised assessment of the economic conditions, including the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, as detailed below.

Collective allowances are sensitive to model inputs, including macroeconomic variables in the forward-looking scenarios and their respective probability weighting, among other factors. The COVID-19 pandemic led to significant changes to this forward-looking information during 2020, resulting in an increase in expected credit losses. As the full extent of the COVID-19 impact on the Canadian and U.S. economies, including government and/or regulatory responses to the pandemic, remains highly uncertain, it is difficult to predict at this time how the increase in expected credit losses will translate into write-offs and whether we will be required to recognize additional increases in expected credit losses in subsequent periods.

Refer to the “Risk Appetite and Risk Management Framework” section of our Management Discussion and Analysis for additional information for the COVID-19 impact on credit risk and measurement uncertainty of expected credit loss estimates and Note 7, Loans and allowances for credit losses, to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information on provision for credit losses and continuity of the allowance for credit losses.

Non-interest expenses

Non-interest expenses amounted to $177.6 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, a decrease of $3.2 million or 2% compared with the fourth quarter of 2019. Adjusted non-interest expenses amounted to $170.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, a decrease of $1.7 million or 1% compared with the fourth quarter of 2019.

Salaries and employee benefits amounted to $88.8 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, an increase of $4.1 million, compared with the fourth quarter of 2019. This increase is mainly due to higher performance-based compensation related to strong capital market activities and higher employee benefits, partly offset by a decrease in salaries reflecting the headcount reduction implemented in May 2020.

Premises and technology costs were $49.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, an increase of $0.9 million compared with the fourth quarter of 2019, essentially as a result of higher technology costs to support operations. Rent decreased by $4.9 million as a result of the introduction, as of November 1, 2019, of IFRS 16, Leases, as well as from a reduction in the square-footage utilization given the right-sizing of our Quebec Retail Network. This decrease was mostly offset by a $3.9 million increase in amortization on the newly created right-of-use assets. Including the impact of the interest charge on the new lease liabilities of $1.2 million, as noted above, overall rental costs remained relatively stable.

Other non-interest expenses were $34.7 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, a decrease of $7.0 million compared with the fourth quarter of 2019. The improvement mainly resulted from lower regulatory costs, as well as lower advertising, business development and travel expenses, ensuing from efficiency measures and current economic conditions.

Restructuring charges were $4.2 million for the fourth quarter of 2020 and mainly resulted from measures aimed at improving efficiency as detailed in the “Update on efficiency measures” section. Restructuring charges include severance charges, as well as charges and provisions related to the termination of lease contracts.

Efficiency ratio

The adjusted efficiency ratio was 69.9% for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared with 71.2% for the fourth quarter of 2019, as a result of lower adjusted expenses and an increase in other income. Adjusted operating leverage was positive year-over-year. The efficiency ratio on a reported basis was 72.9% for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared with 74.8% for the fourth quarter of 2019, as a result of lower expenses and an increase in other income.

Income taxes

For the quarter ended October 31, 2020, the income tax expense was $4.8 million, and the effective tax rate was 11.6%. The lower tax rate, compared to the statutory rate, is attributed to a lower taxation level of revenue from foreign operations, as well as from the favourable effect of holding investments in Canadian securities that generate non-taxable dividend income. For the quarter ended October 31, 2019, income tax expense was $6.6 million, and the effective tax rate was 13.7%. Year-over-year, the income tax rate decreased slightly.

Three months ended October 31, 2020


compared with three months ended


July 31


,


20


20

Net income was $36.8 million and diluted earnings per share were $0.79 for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared with $36.2 million and $0.77 for the third quarter of 2020. Adjusted net income was $42.3 million and adjusted diluted earnings per share were $0.91 for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared with $47.1 million and $1.02 for the third quarter of 2020.

Total revenue decreased by $5.1 million to $243.5 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared with $248.6 million for the previous quarter.

Net interest income decreased by $4.2 million sequentially to $169.3 million. The decrease reflects the impact of lower inventory financing volumes due to higher repayments resulting from the increased demand for boats and other recreational vehicles, as well as of the inability of dealers to replenish their inventory as a result of the manufacturers’ production disruption. Net interest margin was 1.82% for the fourth quarter of 2020, a decrease of 4 basis points compared with 1.86% for the third quarter of 2020, mainly as a result of the lower proportion of higher-yielding loans to business customers.

Other income slightly decreased by $0.9 million to $74.2 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared with $75.1 million for the previous quarter. The decrease was mainly due to the lower contribution from capital markets in fourth quarter of 2020, compared with their historic high contribution in the third quarter of 2020, partly offset by higher lending fees and a net gain of $1.1 million on a securitization of a mortgage loan portfolio.

The line item “Amortization of net premium on purchased financial instruments” amounted to $0.1 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, essentially unchanged from the third quarter of 2020. Refer to the 2020 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Provision for credit losses totaled $24.2 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, a $1.9 million increase compared with $22.3 million for the third quarter of 2020. The provision for credit losses for the fourth quarter of 2020 remains high and considers our revised assumptions, as noted above.

Non-interest expenses decreased by $6.2 million to $177.6 million for the fourth quarter of 2020 from $183.8 million in the third quarter of 2020. Adjusted non-interest expenses increased by $1.1 million and amounted to $170.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2020, compared with $169.2 million in the third quarter of 2020. The increase in adjusted non-interest expenses mainly results from a higher level of activity, as the economy began to reopen, as well as to sales tax adjustments and other year-end accruals. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in salaries and employee benefits, mostly as the third quarter results included a $2.7 million compensation charge related to the Bank’s former President and Chief Executive Officer retirement. Restructuring charges for the fourth quarter of 2020 decreased by $6.9 million compared with the third quarter of 2020 and mainly resulted from measures aimed at improving efficiency. Restructuring charges include severance charges, as well as charges related to the termination of lease contracts.

Financial Condition

As at October 31, 2020, total assets amounted to $44.2 billion, relatively unchanged compared with $44.4 billion as at October 31, 2019, as the higher level of liquid assets mostly offset the decrease in loan portfolios.

Liquid assets

Liquid assets consist of cash, deposits with banks, securities and securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements. As at October 31, 2020, these assets totaled $9.6 billion, an increase of $0.4 billion compared with $9.3 billion as at October 31, 2019.

We continue to prudently manage our level of liquid assets. The Bank’s funding sources remain well diversified and sufficient to meet all obligations. Liquid assets represented 22% of total assets as at October 31, 2020, compared with 21% as at October 31, 2019.

Loans

Loans and bankers’ acceptances, net of allowances, stood at $33.0 billion as at October 31, 2020, a decrease of $0.5 billion or 2% compared with $33.6 billion as at October 31, 2019. During the year 2020, the negative impacts of COVID-19 hindered the Bank’s ability to maintain its growth momentum in commercial loan portfolios.

Personal loans amounted to $4.1 billion as at October 31, 2020, a decrease of $0.5 billion or 12% since October 31, 2019, mainly as a result of the continued reduction in the investment loan portfolio, reflecting the continued reduction in the use of leverage by consumers, as well as, to a lesser extent, the decrease in other retail exposures.

Residential mortgage loans amounted to $16.3 billion as at October 31, 2020, an increase of $0.3 billion or 2% since October 31, 2019. The acquisition of mortgage loans from third parties, as part of our program to optimize the usage of the National Housing Act mortgage-backed securities allocations, has contributed to mitigating the impact of maturities.

Commercial loans and acceptances amounted to $12.7 billion as at October 31, 2020, a decrease of 2% since October 31, 2019. This decrease was mainly due to inventory financing volumes which were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic as a result of higher repayments due to the increased demand for boats and other recreational vehicles in Canada and the U.S. The inability of dealers to replenish their inventory as a result of the manufacturers’ production disruption also affected inventory levels. This was partly offset by the increase in real estate lending, which showed resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic amidst the lower interest rate environment.

Other assets

Other assets stood at $1.5 billion as at October 31, 2020, essentially unchanged compared with October 31, 2019.

Liabilities

Deposits decreased by $1.7 billion or 7% to $23.9 billion as at October 31, 2020 compared with $25.7 billion as at October 31, 2019, in part to adapt to the reduction in loans and optimization of other funding sources. Personal deposits stood at $18.8 billion as at October 31, 2020, down $1.0 billion compared with October 31, 2019. The decrease resulted mainly from the lower term deposits sourced through intermediaries managed down to meet our funding needs, partly offset by higher volumes of demand deposits generated through the various direct to customer distribution channels of the Bank. In the first quarter of 2020, we launched our LBC Digital deposit offering. These deposits, amounting to $0.6 billion as at October 31, 2020, contribute to our well-diversified funding and provide the opportunity to develop new client relationships and cross-selling activities. In 2020, personal demand deposits sourced through our Quebec Retail Network increased by $0.3 billion, while other demand deposits from intermediaries increased by $0.4 billion. Business and other deposits decreased by $0.8 billion over the same period to $5.1 billion, mostly due to a decrease in institutional funding as we optimized our funding sources given lower asset levels.

Personal deposits represented 79% of total deposits as at October 31, 2020, compared with 77% as at October 31, 2019, and contributed to our good liquidity position.

Obligations related to securities sold short stood at $3.0 billion as at October 31, 2020, an increase of $0.4 billion compared to October 31, 2019.

Debt related to securitization activities increased by $1.3 billion compared with October 31, 2019 and stood at $10.2 billion as at October 31, 2020. Since the beginning of the year, mortgage loan securitization through both the CMHC programs and a third-party program, as well as securitization of investment loans more than offset maturities of liabilities related to the Canada Mortgage Bond program, as well as normal repayments.

Shareholders’ equity and regulatory capital

Shareholders’ equity amounted to $2,611.2 million as at October 31, 2020, compared with $2,567.7 million as at October 31, 2019.

Compared to a year ago, retained earnings decreased by $8.7 million, mainly as the net income contribution of $114.1 million was offset by dividends amounting to $104.1 million, as well as by other charges related to employee benefit plans and equity securities designated at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI) of $11.4 million.

As mentioned in the “Basis of Presentation” section of our MD&A, the adoption of IFRS 16 at the outset of the year also contributed to reduce retained earnings by $7.3 million as at November 1, 2019. Increases in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) of $31.3 million and common share issuance of $20.3 million as part of the Bank’s Shareholder Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan, contributed positively to shareholders’ equity. For additional information, please refer to the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity in the Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

The Bank’s book value per common share was $53.74 as at October 31, 2020 compared to $54.02 as at October 31, 2019.

There were 43,238,083 common shares outstanding as at November 27, 2020.

The Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio stood at 9.6% as at October 31, 2020, compared with 9.0% as at October 31, 2019. The increase compared with October 31, 2019 mainly results from the lower level of assets resulting from the current COVID-19 situation. This level of capital provides the Bank with the necessary operational flexibility to resume growth and to pursue key initiatives, prudently considering the economic conditions.

Condensed Interim Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

Consolidated Balance Sheet

In thousands of Canadian dollars (Unaudited)	As at October 31 2020				As at October 31 2019
Assets
Cash and non-interest bearing deposits with banks	$	69,661			$	90,658
Interest bearing deposits with banks	603,181				322,897
Securities
At amortized cost	3,109,698				2,744,929
At fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL)	2,414,939				3,242,146
At fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI)	274,579				312,861
	5,799,216				6,299,936
Securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements	3,140,228				2,538,285
Loans
Personal	4,120,875				4,660,524
Residential mortgage	16,341,890				16,039,680
Commercial	12,730,360				12,646,332
Customers’ liabilities under acceptances	—				319,992
	33,193,125				33,666,528
Allowances for loan losses	(173,522		)		(100,457		)
	33,019,603				33,566,071
Other
Derivatives	295,122				143,816
Premises and equipment	199,869				77,802
Software and other intangible assets	380,259				391,162
Goodwill	117,286				116,649
Deferred tax assets	62,216				37,045
Other assets	481,019				768,806
	1,535,771				1,535,280
	$	44,167,660			$	44,353,127
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Deposits
Personal	$	18,796,150			$	19,747,260
Business, banks and other	5,124,053				5,905,344
	23,920,203				25,652,604
Other
Obligations related to securities sold short	3,020,709				2,618,147
Obligations related to securities sold under repurchase agreements	2,411,649				2,558,883
Acceptances	—				319,992
Derivatives	127,412				112,737
Deferred tax liabilities	55,333				53,102
Other liabilities	1,487,174				1,207,567
	7,102,277				6,870,428
Debt related to securitization activities	10,184,497				8,913,333
Subordinated debt	349,442				349,101
Shareholders’ equity
Preferred shares	244,038				244,038
Common shares	1,159,488				1,139,193
Retained earnings	1,152,973				1,161,668
Accumulated other comprehensive income	52,215				20,947
Share-based compensation reserve	2,527				1,815
	2,611,241				2,567,661
	$	44,167,660			$	44,353,127

Consolidated Statement of Income

	For the three months ended										For the year ended
In thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts (Unaudited)	October 31 2020			July 31 2020			October 31 2019				October 31 2020			October 31 2019
Interest and dividend income
Loans	$	290,794		$	307,888		$	360,367			$	1,288,850		$	1,440,102
Securities	10,662			13,230			18,318				57,798			76,562
Deposits with banks	281			152			2,120				4,294			8,356
Other, including derivatives	28,839			26,604			6,551				71,311			31,362
	330,576			347,874			387,356				1,422,253			1,556,382
Interest expense
Deposits	112,874			124,809			157,984				532,062			638,389
Debt related to securitization activities	42,531			43,911			44,961				179,930			172,419
Subordinated debt	3,824			3,825			3,835				15,222			15,214
Other, including derivatives	2,001			1,783			7,371				12,615			43,949
	161,230			174,328			214,151				739,829			869,971
Net interest income	169,346			173,546			173,205				682,424			686,411
Other income
Lending fees	16,893			15,607			16,630				62,595			61,459
Fees and securities brokerage commissions	12,570			12,634			11,919				48,030			43,892
Commissions from sales of mutual funds	11,183			10,666			10,706				42,985			42,892
Service charges	7,981			7,947			10,109				33,733			42,033
Income from financial instruments	9,082			12,905			(584		)		33,728			12,460
Card service revenues	6,700			6,464			7,855				28,438			33,238
Fees on investment accounts	4,196			3,310			4,593				16,350			18,231
Insurance income, net	2,817			3,182			3,334				11,148			13,941
Other	2,771			2,348			3,871				11,578			13,953
	74,193			75,063			68,433				288,585			282,099
Total revenue	243,539			248,609			241,638				971,009			968,510
Amortization of net premium on purchased financial instruments	100			127			284				638			1,452
Provision for credit losses	24,200			22,300			12,600				116,300			44,400
Non-interest expenses
Salaries and employee benefits	88,811			92,483			84,755				370,535			357,396
Premises and technology	49,949			50,091			49,017				200,529			197,351
Other	34,670			30,136			41,625				144,434			159,067
Restructuring charges	4,162			11,067			5,431				18,289			12,679
	177,592			183,777			180,828				733,787			726,493
Income before income taxes	41,647			42,405			47,926				120,284			196,165
Income taxes	4,836			6,188			6,583				6,199			23,455
Net income	$	36,811		$	36,217		$	41,343			$	114,085		$	172,710
Preferred share dividends, including applicable taxes	2,874			3,198			3,196				12,466			12,966
Net income available to common shareholders	$	33,937		$	33,019		$	38,147			$	101,619		$	159,744
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding (in thousands)
Basic	43,161			43,001			42,518				42,910			42,310
Diluted	43,161			43,001			42,583				42,929			42,356
Earnings per share
Basic	$	0.79		$	0.77		$	0.90			$	2.37		$	3.78
Diluted	$	0.79		$	0.77		$	0.90			$	2.37		$	3.77
Dividends declared per share
Common share	$	0.40		$	0.40		$	0.66			$	2.14		$	2.62
Preferred share – Series 13	$	0.26		$	0.26		$	0.26			$	1.03		$	1.06
Preferred share – Series 15	$	0.37		$	0.37		$	0.37			$	1.46		$	1.46

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

	For the three months ended												For the year ended
In thousands of Canadian dollars (Unaudited)	October 31 2020				July 31 2020				October 31 2019				October 31 2020				October 31 2019
Net income	$	36,811			$	36,217			$	41,343			$	114,085			$	172,710
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
Items that may subsequently be reclassified to the Statement of Income
Net change in debt securities at FVOCI
Unrealized net gains (losses) on debt securities at FVOCI	(26		)		683				(114		)		1,559				2,327
Reclassification of net (gains) losses on debt securities at FVOCI to net income	(53		)		(57		)		115				(103		)		(378		)
	(79		)		626				1				1,456				1,949
Net change in value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges	(3,109		)		(8,345		)		(1,764		)		22,544				33,293
Net foreign currency translation adjustments
Net unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on investments in foreign operations	(2,155		)		(19,119		)		(432		)		5,005				445
Net gains (losses) on hedges of investments in foreign operations	1,201				6,413				(242		)		2,263				(5,158		)
	(954		)		(12,706		)		(674		)		7,268				(4,713		)
	(4,142		)		(20,425		)		(2,437		)		31,268				30,529
Items that may not subsequently be reclassified to the Statement of Income
Remeasurement gains (losses) on employee benefit plans	6,959				(801		)		(3,938		)		(5,420		)		(7,311		)
Net gains (losses) on equity securities designated at FVOCI	4,315				9,344				(3,338		)		(6,008		)		(18,411		)
	11,274				8,543				(7,276		)		(11,428		)		(25,722		)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	7,132				(11,882		)		(9,713		)		19,840				4,807
Comprehensive income	$	43,943			$	24,335			$	31,630			$	133,925			$	177,517

Income Taxes — Other Comprehensive Income

The following table shows income tax expense (recovery) for each component of other comprehensive income.

	For the three months ended												For the year ended
In thousands of Canadian dollars (Unaudited)	October 31 2020				July 31 2020				October 31 2019				October 31 2020				October 31 2019
Net change in debt securities at FVOCI
Unrealized net gains (losses) on debt securities at FVOCI	$	(29	)		$	247			$	140			$	543			$	846
Reclassification of net (gains) losses on debt securities at FVOCI to net income	(19		)		(21		)		(137		)		(37		)		(137		)
	(48		)		226				3				506				709
Net change in value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges	(1,157		)		(3,010		)		(639		)		8,094				12,034
Net foreign currency translation adjustments
Net gains (losses) on hedges of investments in foreign operations	(422		)		—				142				(320		)		—
Remeasurement gains (losses) on employee benefit plans	2,459				(289		)		(1,443		)		(2,005		)		(2,666		)
Net gains (losses) on equity securities designated at FVOCI	1,556				3,371				(1,181		)		(2,169		)		(6,648		)
	$	2,388			$	298			$	(3,118	)		$	4,106			$	3,429

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

	For the year ended October 31, 2020
										Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income												Share-based compensation reserve
In thousands of Canadian dollars (Unaudited)	Preferred shares			Common shares			Retained earnings			Debt securities at FVOCI			Cash flow hedges			Translation of foreign operations			Total						Total shareholders’ equity
Balance as at October 31, 2019	$	244,038		$	1,139,193		$	1,161,668		$	328		$	21,049		$	(430	)	$	20,947		$	1,815		$	2,567,661
Impact of adoption of IFRS 16, Leases							(7,256		)																(7,256		)
Balance as at November 1, 2019	244,038			1,139,193			1,154,412			328			21,049			(430		)	20,947			1,815			2,560,405
Net income							114,085																		114,085
Other comprehensive income, net of income taxes
Unrealized net gains on debt securities at FVOCI										1,559									1,559						1,559
Reclassification of net gains on debt securities at FVOCI to net income										(103		)							(103		)				(103		)
Net change in value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges													22,544						22,544						22,544
Net unrealized foreign currency translation gains on investments in foreign operations																5,005			5,005						5,005
Net gains on hedges of investments in foreign operations																2,263			2,263						2,263
Remeasurement losses on employee benefit plans							(5,420		)																(5,420		)
Net losses on equity securities designated at FVOCI							(6,008		)																(6,008		)
Comprehensive income							102,657			1,456			22,544			7,268			31,268						133,925
Issuance of share capital				20,295																					20,295
Share-based compensation																						712			712
Dividends
Preferred shares, including applicable taxes							(12,466		)																(12,466		)
Common shares							(91,630		)																(91,630		)
Balance as at October 31, 2020	$	244,038		$	1,159,488		$	1,152,973		$	1,784		$	43,593		$	6,838		$	52,215		$	2,527		$	2,611,241

	For the year ended October 31, 2019
										Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income												Share-based compensation reserve
In thousands of Canadian dollars (Unaudited)	Preferred shares			Common shares			Retained earnings			Debt securities at FVOCI			Cash flow hedges			Translation of foreign operations			Total						Total shareholders’ equity
Balance as at November 1, 2018	$	244,038		$	1,115,416		$	1,138,383		$	(1,621	)	$	(12,244	)	$	4,283		$	(9,582	)	$	268		$	2,488,523
Net income							172,710																		172,710
Other comprehensive income, net of income taxes
Unrealized net gains on debt securities at FVOCI										2,327									2,327						2,327
Reclassification of net gains on debt securities at FVOCI to net income										(378		)							(378		)				(378		)
Net change in value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges													33,293						33,293						33,293
Net unrealized foreign currency translation gains on investments in foreign operations																445			445						445
Net losses on hedges of investments in foreign operations																(5,158		)	(5,158		)				(5,158		)
Remeasurement losses on employee benefit plans							(7,311		)																(7,311		)
Net losses on equity securities designated at FVOCI							(18,411		)																(18,411		)
Comprehensive income							146,988			1,949			33,293			(4,713		)	30,529						177,517
Issuance of share capital				23,777																					23,777
Share-based compensation																						1,547			1,547
Dividends
Preferred shares, including applicable taxes							(12,966		)																(12,966		)
Common shares							(110,737		)																(110,737		)
Balance as at October 31, 2019	$	244,038		$	1,139,193		$	1,161,668		$	328		$	21,049		$	(430	)	$	20,947		$	1,815		$	2,567,661

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

We may, from time to time, make written or oral forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, including in this document and the documents incorporated by reference herein, and in other documents filed with Canadian regulatory authorities or in other written or oral communications. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our business plans and strategies, priorities and financial objectives, the regulatory environment in which we operate, the anticipated impact of the coronavirus (“COVID-19”) pandemic on the Bank’s operations, earnings results and financial performance and statements under the headings “Outlook”, “COVID-19 Pandemic” and “Risk Appetite and Risk Management Framework” contained in our 2020 Annual Report, including the Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2020 and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements typically are identified with words or phrases such as “believe”, “assume”, “estimate”, “forecast”, “outlook”, “project”, “vision”, “expect”, “foresee”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “goal”, “aim”, “target”, “may”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “will”, “intend” or the negative of these terms, variations thereof or similar terminology. 

By their very nature, forward-looking statements require us to make assumptions and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific in nature. Material economic assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained in this document are set out in the 2020 Annual Report under the heading “Outlook”. There is significant risk that the predictions, forecasts, projections or conclusions will prove to be inaccurate, that our assumptions may not be correct, and that actual results may differ materially from such predictions, forecasts, projections or conclusions.

We caution readers against placing undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control and the effects of which can be difficult to predict, could influence, individually or collectively, the accuracy of the forward-looking statements and cause actual future results to differ significantly from the targets, expectations, estimates or intentions expressed in the forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to risks relating to: the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Bank, our business, financial condition and prospects; technology, information systems and cybersecurity; technological disruption, competition and our ability to execute on our strategic objectives; the economic climate in the U.S. and Canada; accounting policies, estimates and developments; legal and regulatory compliance; fraud and criminal activity; human capital; insurance; business continuity; business infrastructure; environmental and social risk and climate change; and our ability to manage operational, regulatory, legal, strategic, reputational and model risks, all of which are described in more detail in the section titled “Risk Appetite and Risk Management Framework” beginning on page 43 of the 2020 Annual Report including the Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2020.

We further caution that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial may also have a material adverse effect on our financial position, financial performance, cash flows, business or reputation. Any forward-looking statements contained in this document represent the views of Management only as at the date hereof, are presented for the purposes of assisting investors and others in understanding certain key elements of the Bank’s current objectives, strategic priorities, expectations and plans, and in obtaining a better understanding of the Bank’s business and anticipated operating environment and may not be appropriate for other purposes. We do not undertake to update any forward-looking statements , whether oral or written, made by us or on our behalf whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by securities regulations. Additional information relating to the Bank can be located on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com.

Access to Quarterly Results Materials

This press release can be found on our website at www.lbcfg.ca, under the Press Room tab, and our Report to Shareholders, Investor Presentation and Supplementary Financial Information under the Investor Centre tab, Financial Results.

Conference Call

Laurentian Bank Financial Group invites media representatives and the public to listen to the conference call to be held at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time on December 4, 2020. The live, listen-only, toll-free, call-in number is 1-800-263-0877, code 9823383. A live webcast will also be available on the Group’s website under the Investor Centre tab, Financial Results.

The conference call playback will be available on a delayed basis at any time from 12:00 p.m. on December 4, 2020 until 12:00 p.m. on January 3, 2021, on our website under the Investor Centre tab, Financial Results.

The presentation material referenced during the call will be available on our website under the Investor Centre tab, Financial Results.

Contact Information
Investor Relations	Media
Susan Cohen	Fabrice Tremblay
Director, Investor Relations	Advisor, Communications
Mobile: 514 970-0564	Office: 514 284-4500, ext. 40020
[email protected]	Mobile: 438 989-6070
	[email protected]

About Laurentian Bank Financial Group

Founded in 1846, Laurentian Bank Financial Group is a diversified financial services provider whose mission is to help its customers improve their financial health. The Laurentian Bank of Canada and its entities are collectively referred to as Laurentian Bank Financial Group (the “Group” or the “Bank”).

With more than 2,900 employees guided by the values of proximity, simplicity and honesty, the Group provides a broad range of advice-based solutions and services to its personal, business and institutional customers. With pan-Canadian activities and a presence in the U.S., the Group is an important player in numerous market segments.

The Group has $44.2 billion in balance sheet assets and $27.8 billion in assets under administration. 

TORONTO, Dec. 04, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Further to its news releases dated March 26, April 4, and July 2, 2019, Blueberries Medical Corp. (CSE: BBM) (OTC: BBRRF) (FRA: 1OA) (the “Company” or “Blueberries“), a Latin American licensed producer of medicinal cannabis and cannabis-derived products is pleased to announce that the Company has completed the acquisition of BBV Labs Inc. (“BBV”), a corporation formed under the laws of the Republic of Panama, pursuant to the previously announced share purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”).

With the Purchase Agreement Blueberries will have the rights to acquire cannabis cultivation, processing, manufacturing and other rights in Argentina, pursuant to a definitive joint venture agreement with the Argentinean state-owned company Cannabis Avatara, S.E. (“Cannava”) and BBV, (the “JointVenture”). The Joint Venture with Cannava allows the Company to develop and cultivate cannabis on a 3.2 million square foot (74 acres or 30 hectares) prime agricultural property. Cannava will contribute the land to the Joint Venture as well as all required permits and authorization necessary to import seeds, cultivate, grow and harvest cannabis, process cannabis and extract cannabis oil and other derivative products for scientific, medicinal and therapeutic purposes and to export cannabis and derivative products and import and export related equipment and products.

The Purchase Agreement was amended to change its terms to reflect the payment of the purchase price to be satisfied by Blueberries issuing 3,000,000 common shares in the capital of the Company to the vendors.

About Blueberries Medical Corp.

Blueberries is a Latin American licensed producer of naturally grown premium quality cannabis with its primary operations ideally located in the Bogotá Savannah of central Colombia and operations currently being established in Argentina. The Company is led by a specialized team with proprietary expertise in agriculture, genetics, extraction, medicine, pharmacology and marketing, Blueberries is fully licensed for the cultivation, production, domestic distribution, and international export of CBD and THC-based medical cannabis in Colombia. Blueberries’ combination of leading scientific expertise, agricultural advantages and distribution arrangements has positioned the Company to become a leading international supplier of naturally grown, processed, and standardized medicinal-grade cannabis oil extracts and related products.

Additional information about the Company is available at www.blueberriesmed.com. For more information, please contact:

Christian Toro, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
[email protected]
Tel: +57 (310) 219 9911

Ian Atacan, Chief Financial Officer
[email protected]
Tel : +1 (416) 562 3220

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward looking statements”) within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “expects”, or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “plans”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”, “estimates”, “believes” or “intends” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may” or “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward looking statements relate, among other things, to: commencement of commercial production of CBD-dominant oils and products in 2020, successful implementation of full GMP standards at its extraction facility to allow for additional export potential to international markets, achieving additional milestones in 2020 as contemplated, or at all, ability to expand distribution networks, ability to expand and upgrade the Company’s cultivation facilities in Colombia, internal expectations, expectations regarding the ability of the Company to access new Latin American and international markets, the ability to attract and retain new customers, and future expansion plans including development of the cultivation, production, industrialization and marketing of cannabis for commercial and scientific purposes.

These forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such statements were made. Actual future results may differ materially as forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to materially differ from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; expectations regarding the size of the Colombian and international medical cannabis market and changing consumer habits; the ability of the Company to successfully achieve its business objectives; plans for expansion; political and social uncertainties; inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; and the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on cultivation, production, distribution and sale of cannabis and cannabis related products in Colombia, Argentina and elsewhere; and employee relations. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.

Additional information regarding the Company, and other risks and uncertainties relating to the Company’s business are contained under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Listing Statement dated January 31, 2019 filed on its issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.