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FirstMerit Reports Second Quarter 2008 EPS of $0.36 Per Share

   FirstMeric Corporation. (PRNewsFoto/FirstMerit Corporation)

AKRON, OH UNITED STATES
    AKRON, Ohio, July 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- FirstMerit Corporation
(Nasdaq: FMER) today announced second quarter 2008 net income of $29.2
million, or $0.36 per diluted share. This compares with $31.4 million, or
$0.39 per diluted share, for the first quarter 2008 and $29.9 million, or
$0.37 per diluted share, for the second quarter 2007.

    (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070920/CLTU138LOGO )

    Returns on average common equity ("ROE") and average assets ("ROA") for
the second quarter 2008 were 12.31% and 1.11%, respectively, compared with
13.56% and 1.22%, respectively, for the first quarter 2008 and 13.75% and
1.16% for the second quarter 2007.

    "Our second quarter financial results reflect the many initiatives that
we have taken over the past several quarters to increase revenues, control
expenses, and improve our credit quality. We are pleased to report revenue
gains supported by net interest margin expansion, solid credit quality,
continued capital strength and expense management," said Paul G. Greig,
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of FirstMerit Corporation. "Our
unwavering focus on executing our super community banking model is
generating positive results amidst a challenging environment. We believe
our competitive array of financial services and products combined with our
excellence in customer service will increase profitability and enhance
shareholder value over the longer term."

    Mr. Greig continued, "Commercial loan growth continued the strong
momentum established in the first quarter. Relative economic stability and
emerging opportunities in our markets are providing us a foundation to grow
the balance sheet. Importantly, incentives within the organization remain
aligned with maintaining a high standard of credit quality and the
profitable expansion and penetration of our customer base."

    Net interest margin was 3.69% for the second quarter of 2008 compared
with 3.60% for the first quarter of 2008 and 3.62% for the second quarter
of 2007. Reduced funding costs compared with the first quarter of 2008 and
the second quarter of 2007 due to an increased composition of lower cost
core deposits along with lower liability pricing from a falling interest
rate environment supported margin expansion over both periods.

    Average loans during the second quarter of 2008 increased $116.7
million, or 1.66%, compared with the first quarter of 2008 and increased
$137.9 million, or 1.97%, compared with the second quarter of 2007.
Increases in the respective periods were driven by average commercial loan
growth of $127.7 million, or 3.24%, and $223.9 million, or 5.82%.

    During the second quarter of 2008 the Company increased its average
core deposits, which excludes time deposits, by $127.2 million, or 2.85%,
compared with the first quarter of 2008, and $128.8 million, or 2.88%,
compared with the second quarter of 2007.

    The Company's investment portfolio yield decreased slightly in the
second quarter of 2008, to 4.90%, compared with 4.91% in the first quarter
of 2008, and increased from 4.72% in the second quarter of 2007. The
increased investment portfolio yields compared with the second quarter of
2007 positively impacted the year-over-year increase in the net interest
margin.

    Net interest income on a fully tax-equivalent ("FTE") basis was $89.0
million in the second quarter 2008 compared with $85.7 million in the first
quarter of 2008 and $85.6 million in the second quarter of 2007. The
increases in FTE net interest income compared with those two periods
resulted from expansion in the net interest margin driven by the
aforementioned decrease in liability pricing.

    Noninterest income net of securities transactions for the second
quarter of 2008 was $48.7 million, a decrease of $3.6 million, or 6.92%,
from the first quarter of 2008 and a decrease of $0.2 million, or 0.45%,
from the second quarter of 2007. Included in noninterest income in the
first quarter 2008 is a $7.9 million gain from the partial redemption of
Visa, Inc. shares.

    Excluding the $7.9 million gain from the partial redemption of Visa,
Inc. shares, noninterest income net of securities transactions increased
$4.3 million, or 9.63%. The primary changes in other income for the second
quarter of 2008 compared to the first quarter of 2008, were as follows:
service charges on deposits increased $1.3 million, or 8.77%, other
operating income increased $1.2 million, or 42.7%, and credit card fees
increased $1.0 million, or 8.86%.

    Other income, net of securities gains, as a percentage of net revenue
for the second quarter of 2008 was 35.38% compared with 37.91% for first
quarter of 2008 and 36.37% for the second quarter of 2007. Net revenue is
defined as net interest income, on a FTE basis, plus other income, less
gains from securities sales.

    Noninterest expense for the second quarter of 2008 was $80.6 million, a
decrease of $0.7 million, or 0.84%, from the first quarter of 2008 and a
decrease of $0.8 million, or 1.01%, from the second quarter of 2007.
Compared with the second quarter of 2007, professional services fell $1.9
million, down 42.96% due in part to the consulting services necessary to
remediate Bank Secrecy Act issues performed in 2007 which were completed
during the first quarter of 2008.

    Net charge-offs totaled $10.7 million, or 0.60% of average loans, in
the second quarter of 2008 compared with $11.3 million, or 0.65% of average
loans, in the first quarter 2008 and $7.6 million, or 0.43% of average
loans, in the second quarter of 2007.

    Nonperforming assets totaled $41.6 million at June 30, 2008, an
increase of $6.3 million, or 17.95%, compared with March 31, 2008.
Nonperforming assets at June 30, 2008 represented 0.57% of period-end loans
plus other real estate compared with 0.50% at March 31, 2008.

    The allowance for loan losses totaled $98.2 million at June 30, 2008,
an increase of $3.8 million from March 31, 2008. The increase was
attributable to additional reserves that were established to address
identified risks associated with the slow down in the housing markets and
the decline in residential and commercial real estate values. At June 30,
2008, the allowance for loan losses was 1.36% of period-end loans compared
with 1.33% at March 31, 2008. The allowance for credit losses is the sum of
the allowance for loan losses and the reserve for unfunded lending
commitments. For comparative purposes the allowance for credit losses was
1.46% at June 30, 2008 compared with 1.45% at March 31, 2008. The allowance
for credit losses to nonperforming loans was 288.50% at June 30, 2008,
compared with 345.59% at March 31, 2008.

    FirstMerit's total assets at June 30, 2008 were $10.6 billion, an
increase of $48.0 million, or 0.46%, compared with March 31, 2008 and an
increase of $135.7 million, or 1.30%, compared with June 30, 2007.
Commercial loan growth of $116.1 million, or 2.89%, compared with March 31,
2008, and $237.3 million, or 6.09%, compared with June 30, 2007, provided
the overall asset growth over both periods.

    Total deposits were $7.3 billion at June 30, 2008, a decrease of $145.5
million, or 1.96%, from March 31, 2008 and a decrease of $197.3 million, or
2.64%, from June 30, 2007. The decrease compared with both periods was
driven by a strategic reduction in the reliance on large brokered and
consumer CDs to lower funding costs. Core deposits totaled $4.6 billion at
June 30, 2008, an increase of $75.3 million, or 1.65%, from March 31, 2008
and an increase of $200.0 million, or 4.49%, from June 30, 2007.

    Shareholders' equity was $924 million at June 30, 2008, compared with
$937 million at March 31, 2008, and $862 million at June 30, 2007. The
Company maintained a strong capital position as tangible equity to assets
was 7.52% at June 30, 2008, compared with 7.68% and 7.00% at March 31, 2008
and June 30, 2007, respectively. The common dividend per share paid in the
second quarter 2008 was $0.29.

    Second quarter 2008 Conference Call

    FirstMerit will host an earnings conference call on July 22, 2008, at
2:00 p.m. EDT to provide an overview of second quarter results and
highlights. To participate in the conference call, please dial (888)
693-3477 ten minutes before start time and provide the reservation number:
56237375. A replay of the conference call will be available at
approximately 5:00 p.m., on July 22, 2008 through July, 29, 2008, by
dialing (800) 642-1687, and entering the PIN: 56237375.

    FirstMerit Corporation is a diversified financial services company
headquartered in Akron, Ohio, with assets of $10.6 billion as of June 30,
2008 and 160 banking offices and 175 ATMs in 25 Ohio and Western
Pennsylvania counties. FirstMerit provides a complete range of banking and
other financial services to consumers and businesses through its core
operations. Principal wholly-owned subsidiaries include: FirstMerit Bank,
N.A., FirstMerit Mortgage Corporation, FirstMerit Title Agency, Ltd., and
FirstMerit Community Development Corporation.

    Forward-Looking Statement

    This release contains forward-looking statements relating to present or
future trends or factors affecting the banking industry, and specifically
the financial condition and results of operations, including without
limitation, statements relating to the earnings outlook of the Company, as
well as its operations, markets and products. Actual results could differ
materially from those indicated. Among the important factors that could
cause results to differ materially are interest rate changes, continued
softening in the economy, which could materially impact credit quality
trends and the ability to generate loans, changes in the mix of the
Company's business, competitive pressures, changes in accounting, tax or
regulatory practices or requirements and those risk factors detailed in the
Company's periodic reports and registration statements filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to
release revisions to these forward-looking statements or reflect events or
circumstances after the date of this release.


FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Financial Highlights (Unaudited) Quarters (Dollars in thousands) 2008 2008 2007 EARNINGS 2nd Qtr 1st Qtr 4th Qtr Net interest income FTE (a) $88,956 $85,695 $87,647 Provision for loan losses 14,565 11,521 9,334 Other income 48,758 52,854 49,993 Other expenses 80,550 81,234 83,295 FTE adjustment (a) 1,425 1,396 1,486 Net income 29,153 31,443 31,459 Diluted EPS 0.36 0.39 0.39 PERFORMANCE RATIOS Return on average assets (ROA) 1.11% 1.22% 1.21% Return on average common equity (ROE) 12.31% 13.56% 13.87% Net interest margin FTE (a) 3.69% 3.60% 3.66% Efficiency ratio 58.38% 58.69% 60.85% Number of full-time equivalent employees 2,679 2,676 2,688 MARKET DATA Book value/common share $11.43 $11.59 $11.39 Period-end common share mkt value 16.31 20.66 20.01 Market as a % of book 143% 178% 176% Cash dividends/common share $0.29 $0.29 $0.29 Common stock dividend payout ratio 80.56% 74.36% 74.36% Average basic common shares 80,855 80,655 80,477 Average diluted common shares 80,898 80,722 80,595 Period end common shares 80,846 80,879 80,482 Common shares repurchased 34,380 5,426 6,066 Common stock market capitalization $1,318,598 $1,670,960 $1,610,445 ASSET QUALITY Gross charge-offs $14,830 $14,669 $11,768 Net charge-offs 10,737 11,315 8,940 Allowance for loan losses 98,239 94,411 94,205 Reserve for unfunded lending commitments 7,310 7,903 7,394 Nonperforming assets (NPAs) 41,639 35,301 37,262 Net charge-offs/average loans ratio 0.60% 0.65% 0.51% Allowance for loan losses/period- end loans 1.36% 1.33% 1.35% Allowance for credit losses/period- end loans 1.46% 1.45% 1.45% NPAs/loans and other real estate 0.57% 0.50% 0.53% Allowance for loan losses/nonperforming loans 268.52% 318.89% 299.70% Allowance for credit losses/nonperforming loans 288.50% 345.59% 323.22% CAPITAL & LIQUIDITY Period-end tangible equity to assets 7.52% 7.68% 7.56% Average equity to assets 9.06% 8.98% 8.72% Average equity to loans 13.34% 13.27% 12.94% Average loans to deposits 97.29% 95.82% 94.71% AVERAGE BALANCES Assets $10,520,469 $10,388,359 $10,313,707 Deposits 7,339,506 7,330,097 7,339,827 Loans 7,140,627 7,023,928 6,951,544 Earning assets 9,704,252 9,581,121 9,493,271 Shareholders' equity 952,769 932,405 899,624 ENDING BALANCES Assets $10,564,752 $10,516,828 $10,400,666 Deposits 7,277,184 7,422,678 7,331,739 Loans 7,240,882 7,072,797 7,001,886 Goodwill 139,245 139,245 139,245 Intangible assets 1,577 1,754 1,977 Earning assets 9,724,859 9,688,270 9,509,680 Total shareholders' equity 924,429 937,439 916,977 NOTES: (a) - Net interest income on a fully tax-equivalent ("FTE") basis restates interest on tax-exempt securities and loans as if such interest were subject to federal income tax at the statutory rate. Net interest income on an FTE basis is not an accounting principle generally accepted in the United States of America. FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Financial Highlights (Unaudited) Quarters (Dollars in thousands) 2007 2007 EARNINGS 3rd Qtr 2nd Qtr Net interest income FTE (a) $86,582 $85,593 Provision for loan losses 7,324 9,967 Other income 49,124 48,930 Other expenses 84,030 81,375 FTE adjustment (a) 1,428 1,368 Net income 30,262 29,885 Diluted EPS 0.38 0.37 PERFORMANCE RATIOS Return on average assets (ROA) 1.16% 1.16% Return on average common equity (ROE) 13.71% 13.75% Net interest margin FTE (a) 3.61% 3.62% Efficiency ratio 61.76% 60.33% Number of full-time equivalent employees 2,704 2,725 MARKET DATA Book value/common share $11.00 $10.71 Period-end common share mkt value 19.76 20.93 Market as a % of book 180% 195% Cash dividends/common share $0.29 $0.29 Common stock dividend payout ratio 76.32% 78.38% Average basic common shares 80,467 80,426 Average diluted common shares 80,561 80,570 Period end common shares 80,467 80,477 Common shares repurchased 22,473 36,159 Common stock market capitalization $1,590,028 $1,684,384 ASSET QUALITY Gross charge-offs $12,347 $10,609 Net charge-offs 7,945 7,580 Allowance for loan losses 93,811 94,432 Reserve for unfunded lending commitments 7,409 6,553 Nonperforming assets (NPAs) 34,199 37,038 Net charge-offs/average loans ratio 0.45% 0.43% Allowance for loan losses/period-end loans 1.34% 1.34% Allowance for credit losses/period-end loans 1.44% 1.43% NPAs/loans and other real estate 0.49% 0.52% Allowance for loan losses/nonperforming loans 314.22% 295.08% Allowance for credit losses/nonperforming loans 339.04% 315.56% CAPITAL & LIQUIDITY Period-end tangible equity to assets 7.24% 7.00% Average equity to assets 8.45% 8.45% Average equity to loans 12.49% 12.45% Average loans to deposits 93.74% 93.18% AVERAGE BALANCES Assets $10,360,739 $10,319,454 Deposits 7,479,960 7,515,205 Loans 7,011,776 7,002,750 Earning assets 9,513,230 9,485,819 Shareholders' equity 875,720 871,554 ENDING BALANCES Assets $10,407,765 $10,429,099 Deposits 7,408,296 7,474,466 Loans 7,014,389 7,052,390 Goodwill 139,245 139,245 Intangible assets 2,200 2,422 Earning assets 9,563,541 9,545,752 Total shareholders' equity 884,877 862,265 NOTES: (a) - Net interest income on a fully tax-equivalent ("FTE") basis restates interest on tax-exempt securities and loans as if such interest were subject to federal income tax at the statutory rate. Net interest income on an FTE basis is not an accounting principle generally accepted in the United States of America. FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands) (Unaudited, except December 31, 2007, which is derived from the June 30, December 31, June 30, audited financial statements) 2008 2007 2007 ASSETS Cash and due from banks $195,930 $207,335 $210,722 Investment securities (at fair value) and federal funds sold 2,469,692 2,460,453 2,442,906 Loans held for sale 14,285 47,341 50,456 Loans: Commercial loans 4,136,273 3,906,448 3,898,943 Mortgage loans 569,516 577,219 586,612 Installment loans 1,619,383 1,598,832 1,641,790 Home equity loans 697,729 691,922 712,021 Credit card loans 146,727 153,732 141,162 Leases 71,254 73,733 71,862 Total loans 7,240,882 7,001,886 7,052,390 Less allowance for loan losses (98,239) (94,205) (94,432) Net loans 7,142,643 6,907,681 6,957,958 Premises and equipment, net 126,021 130,469 133,493 Goodwill 139,245 139,245 139,245 Intangible assets 1,577 1,977 2,422 Accrued interest receivable and other assets 475,359 506,165 491,897 Total assets $10,564,752 $10,400,666 $10,429,099 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Deposits: Demand-non-interest bearing $1,576,584 $1,482,480 1,424,892 Demand-interest bearing 698,829 727,966 755,931 Savings and money market accounts 2,367,825 2,295,147 2,262,828 Certificates and other time deposits 2,633,946 2,826,146 3,030,815 Total deposits 7,277,184 7,331,739 7,474,466 Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 1,239,925 1,256,080 1,302,175 Wholesale borrowings 953,759 705,121 578,659 Accrued taxes, expenses, and other liabilities 169,455 190,749 211,534 Total liabilities 9,640,323 9,483,689 9,566,834 Commitments and contingencies Shareholders' equity: Preferred stock, without par value: authorized and unissued 7,000,000 shares -- -- -- Preferred stock, Series A, without par value: designated 800,000 shares; none outstanding -- -- -- Convertible preferred stock, Series B, without par value: designated 220,000 shares; none outstanding -- -- -- Common stock, without par value: authorized 300,000,000 shares; issued 92,026,350 at June 30, 2008, December 31, 2007 and June 30, 2007 127,937 127,937 127,937 Capital surplus 93,267 100,028 100,700 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (51,434) (43,085) (82,073) Retained earnings 1,041,473 1,027,775 1,012,699 Treasury stock, at cost, 11,180,046, 11,543,882 and 11,548,911 shares at June 30, 2008, December 31, 2007 and June 30, 2007, respectively (286,814) (295,678) (296,998) Total shareholders' equity 924,429 916,977 862,265 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $10,564,752 $10,400,666 $10,429,099 FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES AVERAGE CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS Quarterly Periods (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands) June 30, March 31, December 31, 2008 2008 2007 ASSETS Cash and due from banks $173,044 $171,028 $175,164 Investment securities/fed funds sold 2,515,546 2,508,125 2,494,975 Loans held for sale 48,079 49,068 46,752 Loans: Commercial loans 4,069,305 3,941,573 3,839,242 Mortgage loans 577,178 584,000 581,370 Installment loans 1,584,825 1,587,267 1,615,035 Home equity loans 692,567 686,603 696,259 Credit card loans 147,242 150,575 149,466 Leases 69,510 73,910 70,172 Total loans 7,140,627 7,023,928 6,951,544 Less allowance for loan losses 94,002 93,804 92,667 Net loans 7,046,625 6,930,124 6,858,877 Total earning assets 9,704,252 9,581,121 9,493,271 Premises and equipment, net 126,488 128,185 132,129 Accrued interest receivable and other assets 610,687 601,829 605,810 TOTAL ASSETS $10,520,469 $10,388,359 $10,313,707 LIABILITIES Deposits: Demand-non-interest bearing $1,518,841 $1,446,889 $1,435,358 Demand-interest bearing 709,922 702,115 699,675 Savings and money market accounts 2,366,296 2,318,899 2,262,818 Certificates and other time deposits 2,744,447 2,862,194 2,941,976 Total deposits 7,339,506 7,330,097 7,339,827 Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 1,312,436 1,310,364 1,517,241 Wholesale borrowings 711,132 618,572 369,685 Total funds 9,363,074 9,259,033 9,226,753 Accrued taxes, expenses and other liabilities 204,626 196,921 187,330 Total liabilities 9,567,700 9,455,954 9,414,083 SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Preferred stock - - - Common stock 127,937 127,937 127,937 Capital surplus 92,313 96,048 99,749 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (40,757) (32,170) (60,430) Retained earnings 1,059,840 1,032,036 1,028,170 Treasury stock (286,564) (291,446) (295,802) Total shareholders' equity 952,769 932,405 899,624 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $10,520,469 $10,388,359 $10,313,707 FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES AVERAGE CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS Quarterly Periods (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands) September 30, June 30, 2007 2007 ASSETS Cash and due from banks $180,426 $177,524 Investment securities/fed funds sold 2,455,777 2,440,015 Loans held for sale 45,677 43,054 Loans: Commercial loans 3,868,235 3,845,395 Mortgage loans 586,911 596,758 Installment loans 1,640,380 1,636,669 Home equity loans 704,499 711,113 Credit card loans 143,312 141,294 Leases 68,439 71,521 Total loans 7,011,776 7,002,750 Less allowance for loan losses 94,393 92,298 Net loans 6,917,383 6,910,452 Total earning assets 9,513,230 9,485,819 Premises and equipment, net 133,303 135,255 Accrued interest receivable and other assets 628,173 613,154 TOTAL ASSETS $10,360,739 $10,319,454 LIABILITIES Deposits: Demand-non-interest bearing $1,400,848 $1,408,827 Demand-interest bearing 714,216 763,907 Savings and money market accounts 2,224,048 2,293,567 Certificates and other time deposits 3,140,848 3,048,904 Total deposits 7,479,960 7,515,205 Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 1,555,235 1,458,982 Wholesale borrowings 256,356 280,914 Total funds 9,291,551 9,255,101 Accrued taxes, expenses and other liabilities 193,468 192,799 Total liabilities 9,485,019 9,447,900 SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Preferred stock - - Common stock 127,937 127,937 Capital surplus 100,511 102,355 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (77,215) (72,170) Retained earnings 1,020,979 1,012,675 Treasury stock (296,492) (299,243) Total shareholders' equity 875,720 871,554 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $10,360,739 $10,319,454 AVERAGE CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited) Fully-tax Equivalent Interest Rates and Interest Differential FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES Three months ended (Dollars in thousands) June 30, 2008 Average Average Balance Interest Rate ASSETS Cash and due from banks $173,044 Investment securities and federal funds sold: U.S. Treasury securities and U.S. Government agency obligations (taxable) 2,021,209 23,609 4.70% Obligations of states and political subdivisions (tax exempt) 279,757 4,270 6.14% Other securities and federal funds sold 214,580 2,777 5.21% Total investment securities and federal funds sold 2,515,546 30,656 4.90% Loans held for sale 48,079 651 5.45% Loans 7,140,627 105,889 5.96% Total earning assets 9,704,252 137,196 5.69% Allowance for loan losses (94,002) Other assets 737,175 Total assets $10,520,469 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Deposits: Demand - non-interest bearing $1,518,841 -- -- Demand - interest bearing 709,922 591 0.33% Savings and money market accounts 2,366,296 6,500 1.10% Certificates and other time deposits 2,744,447 26,587 3.90% Total deposits 7,339,506 33,678 1.85% Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 1,312,436 8,319 2.55% Wholesale borrowings 711,132 6,243 3.53% Total interest bearing liabilities 7,844,233 48,240 2.47% Other liabilities 204,626 Shareholders' equity 952,769 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $10,520,469 Net yield on earning assets $9,704,252 88,956 3.69% Interest rate spread 3.22% Note: Interest income on tax-exempt securities and loans has been adjusted to a fully-taxable equivalent basis. Nonaccrual loans have been included in the average balances. AVERAGE CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited) Fully-tax Equivalent Interest Rates and Interest Differential FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES Year ended (Dollars in thousands) December 31, 2007 Average Average Balance Interest Rate ASSETS Cash and due from banks $178,164 Investment securities and federal funds sold: U.S. Treasury securities and U.S. Government agency obligations (taxable) 1,955,049 85,544 4.38% Obligations of states and political subdivisions (tax exempt) 255,461 15,595 6.10% Other securities and federal funds sold 244,749 17,127 7.00% Total investment securities and federal funds sold 2,455,259 118,266 4.82% Loans held for sale 56,036 3,050 5.44% Loans 6,971,464 521,172 7.48% Total earning assets 9,482,759 642,488 6.78% Allowance for loan losses (92,662) Other assets 750,527 Total assets $10,318,788 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Deposits: Demand - non-interest bearing $1,408,726 -- -- Demand - interest bearing 733,410 6,824 0.93% Savings and money market accounts 2,266,070 54,166 2.39% Certificates and other time deposits 3,045,715 146,559 4.81% Total deposits 7,453,921 207,549 2.78% Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 1,471,785 71,298 4.84% Wholesale borrowings 326,460 20,601 6.31% Total interest bearing liabilities 7,843,440 299,448 3.82% Other liabilities 191,096 Shareholders' equity 875,526 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $10,318,788 Net yield on earning assets $9,482,759 343,040 3.62% Interest rate spread 2.96% Note: Interest income on tax-exempt securities and loans has been adjusted to a fully-taxable equivalent basis. Nonaccrual loans have been included in the average balances. AVERAGE CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited) Fully-tax Equivalent Interest Rates and Interest Differential FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES Three months ended (Dollars in thousands) June 30, 2007 Average Average Balance Interest Rate ASSETS Cash and due from banks $177,524 Investment securities and federal funds sold: U.S. Treasury securities and U.S. Government agency obligations (taxable) 1,936,833 20,359 4.22% Obligations of states and political subdivisions (tax exempt) 256,153 3,883 6.08% Other securities and federal funds sold 247,029 4,477 7.27% Total investment securities and federal funds sold 2,440,015 28,719 4.72% Loans held for sale 43,054 739 6.88% Loans 7,002,750 131,369 7.52% Total earning assets 9,485,819 160,827 6.80% Allowance for loan losses (92,298) Other assets 748,409 Total assets $10,319,454 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Deposits: Demand - non-interest bearing $1,408,827 -- -- Demand - interest bearing 763,907 1,876 0.99% Savings and money market accounts 2,293,567 13,992 2.45% Certificates and other time deposits 3,048,904 36,725 4.83% Total deposits 7,515,205 52,593 2.81% Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 1,458,982 18,005 4.95% Wholesale borrowings 280,914 4,636 6.62% Total interest bearing liabilities 7,846,274 75,234 3.85% Other liabilities 192,799 Shareholders' equity 871,554 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $10,319,454 Net yield on earning assets $9,485,819 85,593 3.62% Interest rate spread 2.95% Note: Interest income on tax-exempt securities and loans has been adjusted to a fully-taxable equivalent basis. Nonaccrual loans have been included in the average balances. FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Unaudited) (In thousands except per share Quarters ended Six months ended data) June 30, June 30, 2008 2007 2008 2007 Interest income: Interest and fees on loans, including held for sale $106,516 $132,076 $222,804 $262,165 Interest and dividends on investment securities and federal funds sold 29,255 27,383 58,491 54,229 Total interest income 135,771 159,459 281,295 316,394 Interest expense: Interest on deposits: Demand-interest bearing 591 1,876 1,555 3,795 Savings and money market accounts 6,500 13,992 16,143 27,998 Certificates and other time deposits 26,587 36,725 58,574 72,805 Interest on securities sold under agreements to repurchase 8,319 18,005 19,861 34,790 Interest on wholesale borrowings 6,243 4,636 13,332 10,775 Total interest expense 48,240 75,234 109,465 150,163 Net interest income 87,531 84,225 171,830 166,231 Provision for loan losses 14,565 9,967 26,086 14,177 Net interest income after provision for loan losses 72,966 74,258 145,744 152,054 Other income: Trust department income 5,824 6,096 11,274 11,692 Service charges on deposits 16,028 17,055 30,764 33,304 Credit card fees 12,146 11,712 23,303 22,811 ATM and other service fees 2,770 3,189 5,564 6,260 Bank owned life insurance income 3,217 3,290 6,418 6,458 Investment services and insurance 2,790 2,660 5,655 5,113 Investment securities gains, net 47 1 571 1 Loan sales and servicing income 1,885 1,911 3,276 7,349 Gain on Visa, Inc. redemption - - 7,898 - Other operating income 4,051 3,016 6,889 4,818 Total other income 48,758 48,930 101,612 97,806 Other expenses: Salaries, wages, pension and employee benefits 44,364 43,538 87,429 86,038 Net occupancy expense 6,204 6,521 12,958 13,207 Equipment expense 5,842 6,328 12,036 12,773 Stationery, supplies and postage 2,242 2,252 4,567 4,585 Bankcard, loan processing and other costs 7,356 7,607 14,600 15,077 Professional services 2,581 4,525 4,468 9,354 Amortization of intangibles 177 222 400 445 Other operating expense 11,784 10,382 25,326 21,422 Total other expenses 80,550 81,375 161,784 162,901 Income before federal income tax expense 41,174 41,813 85,572 86,959 Federal income tax expense 12,021 11,928 24,976 25,653 Net income $29,153 $29,885 $60,596 $61,306 Other comprehensive income, net of taxes Unrealized securities' holding gain, net of taxes $(22,119) $(13,051) $(10,510) $(4,938) Unrealized hedging (loss) gain, net of taxes 1,419 561 786 628 Minimum pension liability adjustment, net of taxes 873 1,746 1,746 1,746 Less: reclassification adjustment for securities' gain realized in net income, net of taxes 31 1 371 1 Total other comprehensive income, net of taxes (19,858) (10,745) (8,349) (2,565) Comprehensive income $9,295 $19,140 $52,247 $58,741 Net income applicable to common shares $29,153 $29,885 $60,596 $61,306 Net income used in diluted EPS calculation $29,154 $29,889 $60,601 $61,314 Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic 80,855 80,426 80,755 80,270 Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - diluted 80,898 80,570 80,812 80,433 Basic earnings per share $0.36 $0.37 $0.75 $0.76 Diluted earnings per share $0.36 $0.37 $0.75 $0.76 Dividend per share $0.29 $0.29 $0.58 $0.58 FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME---LINKED QUARTERS (Unaudited) Quarterly Results (Dollars in thousands, except share data) 2008 2008 2007 2007 2007 2nd Q 1st Q 4th Q 3rd Q 2nd Q Interest and fees on loans, including held for sale $106,516 $116,288 $128,078 $133,860 $132,076 Interest and dividends - securities and federal funds sold 29,255 29,236 29,891 28,771 27,383 Total interest income 135,771 145,524 157,969 162,631 159,459 Interest on deposits: Demand-interest bearing 591 964 1,352 1,677 1,876 Savings and money market accounts 6,500 9,643 12,667 13,501 13,992 Certificates and other time deposits 26,587 31,987 35,290 38,464 36,725 Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 8,319 11,542 16,994 19,514 18,005 Wholesale borrowings 6,243 7,089 5,505 4,321 4,636 Total interest expense 48,240 61,225 71,808 77,477 75,234 Net interest income 87,531 84,299 86,161 85,154 84,225 Provision for loan losses 14,565 11,521 9,334 7,324 9,967 Net interest income after provision for loan losses 72,966 72,778 76,827 77,830 74,258 Other income: Trust department income 5,824 5,450 5,896 5,657 6,096 Service charges on deposits 16,028 14,736 17,067 17,003 17,055 Credit card fees 12,146 11,157 12,012 11,679 11,712 ATM and other service fees 2,770 2,794 3,055 3,306 3,189 Bank owned life insurance income 3,217 3,201 3,283 3,735 3,290 Investment services and insurance 2,790 2,865 3,121 3,007 2,660 Investment securities gains (losses), net 47 524 1,122 - 1 Loan sales and servicing income 1,885 1,391 1,551 1,411 1,911 Gain on Visa, Inc. redemption - 7,898 - - - Other operating income 4,051 2,838 2,886 3,326 3,016 Total other income 48,758 52,854 49,993 49,124 48,930 Other expenses: Salaries, wages, pension and employee benefits 44,364 43,065 43,087 41,332 43,538 Net occupancy expense 6,204 6,754 6,284 6,188 6,521 Equipment expense 5,842 6,194 6,239 6,389 6,328 Stationery, supplies and postage 2,242 2,325 2,388 2,463 2,252 Bankcard, loan processing and other costs 7,356 7,244 7,482 7,222 7,607 Professional services 2,581 1,887 3,588 2,923 4,525 Amortization of intangibles 177 223 222 222 222 Other operating expense 11,784 13,542 14,005 17,291 10,382 Total other expenses 80,550 81,234 83,295 84,030 81,375 Income before income tax expense 41,174 44,398 43,525 42,924 41,813 Federal income taxes 12,021 12,955 12,066 12,662 11,928 Net income $29,153 $31,443 $31,459 $30,262 $29,885 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes (19,858) 11,509 23,267 15,721 (10,745) Comprehensive income $9,295 $42,952 $54,726 $45,983 $19,140 Net income applicable to common shares $29,153 $31,443 $31,459 $30,262 $29,885 Adjusted net income used in diluted EPS calculation $29,154 $31,447 $31,463 $30,266 $29,889 Weighted-average common shares - basic 80,855 80,655 80,477 80,467 80,426 Weighted-average common shares - diluted 80,898 80,722 80,595 80,561 80,570 Basic net income per share $0.36 $0.39 $0.39 $0.38 $0.37 Diluted net income per share $0.36 $0.39 $0.39 $0.38 $0.37 FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES ASSET QUALITY INFORMATION (Unaudited, except December 31, 2007 annual period which is derived from the audited financial statements) (Dollars in thousands, except ratios) Quarterly Periods Allowance for Credit Jun 30 Mar 31 Dec 31 Sept 30 June 30 Losses 2008 2008 2007 2007 2007 Allowance for loan losses, beginning of period $94,411 $94,205 $93,811 $94,432 $92,045 Provision for loan losses 14,565 11,521 9,334 7,324 9,967 Charge-offs 14,830 14,669 11,768 12,347 10,609 Recoveries 4,093 3,354 2,828 4,402 3,029 Net charge-offs 10,737 11,315 8,940 7,945 7,580 Allowance for loan losses, end of period $98,239 $94,411 $94,205 $93,811 $94,432 Reserve for unfunded lending commitments, beginning of period $7,903 $7,394 $7,409 $6,553 $6,746 Provision for credit losses (593) 509 (15) 856 (193) Reserve for unfunded lending commitments, end of period $7,310 $7,903 $7,394 $7,409 $6,553 Allowance for Credit Losses $105,549 $102,314 $101,599 $101,220 $100,985 Ratios Provision for loan losses as a % of average loans 0.82% 0.66% 0.53% 0.41% 0.57% Provision for credit losses as a % of average loans -0.03% 0.03% 0.00% 0.05% -0.01% Net charge-offs as a % of average loans 0.60% 0.65% 0.51% 0.45% 0.43% Allowance for loan losses as a % of period-end loans 1.36% 1.33% 1.35% 1.34% 1.34% Allowance for credit losses as a % of period-end loans 1.46% 1.45% 1.45% 1.44% 1.43% Allowance for loan losses as a % of nonperforming loans 268.52% 318.89% 299.70% 314.22% 295.08% Allowance for credit losses as a % of nonperforming loans 288.50% 345.59% 323.22% 339.04% 315.56% Asset Quality Impaired loans: Nonaccrual $26,702 $19,777 $21,513 $20,165 $20,877 Other nonperforming loans: Nonaccrual 9,884 9,829 9,920 9,690 11,125 Total nonperforming loans 36,586 29,606 31,433 29,855 32,002 Other real estate ("ORE") 5,053 5,695 5,829 4,344 5,036 Total nonperforming assets ("NPAs") $41,639 $35,301 $37,262 $34,199 $37,038 NPAs as % of period-end loans + ORE 0.57% 0.50% 0.53% 0.49% 0.52% Past due 90 days or more & accruing interest $10,654 $10,931 $11,702 $13,107 $10,536 FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES ASSET QUALITY INFORMATION (Unaudited, except December 31, 2007 annual period which is derived from the audited financial statements) (Dollars in thousands, except ratios) Annual Period Dec 31 Allowance for Credit Losses 2007 Allowance for loan losses, beginning of period $91,342 Provision for loan losses 30,835 Charge-offs 44,148 Recoveries 16,176 Net charge-offs 27,972 Allowance for loan losses, end of period $94,205 Reserve for unfunded lending commitments, beginning of period $6,294 Provision for credit losses 1,100 Reserve for unfunded lending commitments, end of period $7,394 Allowance for Credit Losses $101,599 Ratios Provision for loan losses as a % of average loans 0.44% Provision for credit losses as a % of average loans 0.02% Net charge-offs as a % of average loans 0.40% Allowance for loan losses as a % of period-end loans 1.35% Allowance for credit losses as a % of period-end loans 1.45% Allowance for loan losses as a % of nonperforming loans 299.70% Allowance for credit losses as a % of nonperforming loans 323.22% Asset Quality Impaired loans: Nonaccrual $21,513 Other nonperforming loans: Nonaccrual 9,920 Total nonperforming loans 31,433 Other real estate ("ORE") 5,829 Total nonperforming assets ("NPAs") $37,262 NPAs as % of period-end loans + ORE 0.53% Past due 90 days or more & accruing interest $11,702 FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION NONINTEREST INCOME AND NONINTEREST EXPENSE DETAIL (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands) 2008 2008 2007 2007 2007 QUARTERLY OTHER INCOME DETAIL 2nd Qtr 1st Qtr 4th Qtr 3rd Qtr 2nd Qtr Trust department income $5,824 $5,450 $5,896 $5,657 $6,096 Service charges on deposits 16,028 14,736 17,067 17,003 17,055 Credit card fees 12,146 11,157 12,012 11,679 11,712 ATM and other service fees 2,770 2,794 3,055 3,306 3,189 Bank owned life insurance income 3,217 3,201 3,283 3,735 3,290 Investment services and insurance 2,790 2,865 3,121 3,007 2,660 Investment securities gains (losses), net 47 524 1,122 - 1 Loan sales and servicing income 1,885 1,391 1,551 1,411 1,911 Visa redemption - 7,898 - - - Other operating income 4,051 2,838 2,886 3,326 3,016 Total Other Income $48,758 $52,854 $49,993 $49,124 $48,930 QUARTERLY OTHER EXPENSES 2008 2008 2007 2007 2007 DETAIL 2nd Qtr 1st Qtr 4th Qtr 3rd Qtr 2nd Qtr Salaries, wages, pension and employee benefits $44,364 $43,065 $43,087 $41,332 $43,538 Net occupancy expense 6,204 6,754 6,284 6,188 6,521 Equipment expense 5,842 6,194 6,239 6,389 6,328 Taxes, other than federal income taxes 1,701 1,702 1,274 1,984 1,655 Stationery, supplies and postage 2,242 2,325 2,388 2,463 2,252 Bankcard, loan processing and other costs 7,356 7,244 7,482 7,222 7,607 Advertising 2,489 2,666 2,989 3,332 1,260 Professional services 2,581 1,887 3,588 2,923 4,525 Telephone 994 1,019 1,006 1,142 1,094 Amortization of intangibles 177 223 222 222 222 Other operating expense 6,600 8,155 8,736 10,833 6,373 Total Other Expenses $80,550 $81,234 $83,295 $84,030 $81,375 FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES - Net Charge-off Detail (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands) Quarters ended Year ended June 30, December 31, 2008 2007 2007 Allowance for loan losses - beginning of period $94,411 $92,045 $91,342 Loans charged off: Commercial 3,718 1,212 7,856 Mortgage 1,229 1,568 5,026 Installment 5,620 4,321 18,343 Home equity 1,226 1,478 4,151 Credit cards 2,500 2,025 8,497 Leases - 5 41 Overdrafts 537 - 234 Total 14,830 10,609 44,148 Recoveries: Commercial 1,032 11 4,351 Mortgage 7 - 44 Installment 2,099 2,092 8,021 Home equity 142 307 1,265 Credit cards 557 474 1,842 Manufactured housing 54 96 323 Leases 31 49 286 Overdrafts 171 - 44 Total 4,093 3,029 16,176 Net charge-offs 10,737 7,580 27,972 Provision for loan losses 14,565 9,967 30,835 Allowance for loan losses - end of period $98,239 $94,432 $94,205 Average loans outstanding $7,140,627 $7,002,750 $6,971,464 Ratio to average loans: (Annualized) net charge-offs 0.60% 0.43% 0.40% Provision for loan losses 0.82% 0.57% 0.44% Loans outstanding - period-end $7,240,882 $7,052,390 $7,001,886 Allowance for credit losses: $105,549 $100,985 $101,599 As a multiple of (annualized) net charge-offs 2.44 3.32 3.63 Allowance for loan losses: As a percent of period-end loans outstanding 1.36% 1.34% 1.35% As a multiple of (annualized) net charge-offs 2.27 3.11 3.37 FIRSTMERIT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES - Net Charge-off Detail (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands) Six months ended June 30, 2008 2007 Allowance for loan losses - beginning of period $94,205 $91,342 Loans charged off: Commercial 7,171 1,660 Mortgage 2,509 2,558 Installment 11,624 9,067 Home equity 2,292 2,298 Credit cards 4,793 4,424 Leases - 26 Overdrafts 1,110 - Total 29,499 20,033 Recoveries: Commercial 1,754 2,889 Mortgage 39 8 Installment 3,841 4,206 Home equity 242 564 Credit cards 1,016 948 Manufactured housing 126 170 Leases 69 161 Overdrafts 360 - Total 7,447 8,946 Net charge-offs 22,052 11,087 Provision for loan losses 26,086 14,177 Allowance for loan losses - end of period $98,239 $94,432 Average loans outstanding $7,082,279 $6,961,099 Ratio to average loans: (Annualized) net charge-offs 0.63% 0.32% Provision for loan losses 0.74% 0.41% Loans outstanding - period-end $7,240,882 $7,052,390 Allowance for credit losses: $105,549 $100,985 As a multiple of (annualized) net charge-offs 2.38 4.52 Allowance for loan losses: As a percent of period-end loans outstanding 1.36% 1.34% As a multiple of (annualized) net charge-offs 2.22 4.22 FirstMerit Corporation Analysts/Media Contact: Thomas O'Malley Director Corporate Communications/Investor Relations Officer Phone: 330.384.7109
SOURCE FirstMerit Corporation




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