Fifth Third Bancorp (NASDAQ: FITB) reported Q2 EPS of $0.80, $0.23 better than the analyst estimate of $0.57.

“We had a very productive second quarter and remained focused on achieving our long-term objectives. Our quarterly results were very strong, as evidenced by the continued expansion in our net interest margin, lower operating expenses, record capital markets revenueand another very significant decline in the level of criticized assets. Our commercial middle market loan originations were also very strong and we expect this trend to continue over the remainder of the year,” said Greg D. Carmichael, Chairman, President and CEO of Fifth Third Bancorp.

“During the quarter, we continued to execute on expense initiatives and also took further actions to optimize our branch network. We are very excited about reallocating our resources to grow branches in high-growth markets which should significantly boost household growth. I am confident that these decisions are in the best long-term interests of our shareholders. We remain focused on achieving our enhanced profitability targets.”

“Also during the second quarter we announced the acquisition of MB Financial, which will create a leading retail and commercial franchise in the attractive Chicago market. We are purchasing a well-respected and successful bank, and combining forces will allow us to build scale in the strategically important Chicago market. Since the announcement in May, we have made significant progress in finalizing the composition of the management team in Chicago. We are very confident that the talent we have in place will help us achieve the financial outcomes that we discussed during the announcement. We are looking forward to completing the merger as soon as possible so that we can begin realizing the substantial cost and revenue synergies we have identified.”

“Lastly, the recently announced CCAR results provide further proof of our commitment to our shareholders. Over the next four quarters, we expect to return a significant amount of capital through a 33% increase in our quarterly common dividend and a 42% increase in share repurchases compared to last year’s capital plan. We are also pleased that a resubmission of our capital plan, given the pending acquisition of MB Financial, will not delay our capital distribution plans.”

For earnings history and earnings-related data on Fifth Third Bancorp (FITB) click here.