Shareholders' Equity

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2015

Equity [Abstract]

Shareholders' Equity

NOTE 26 – Shareholders’ Equity

Share Repurchase Program

We have an ongoing authorization from the Board of Directors to repurchase our common stock in the open market or in negotiated transactions. At September 30, 2015, the maximum number of shares that may yet be purchased under this plan was 2.1 million. The repurchase program has no expiration date.  These purchases may be made on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions, depending upon market conditions and other factors. Repurchased shares may be used to meet obligations under our employee benefit plans and for general corporate purposes. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015, we repurchased $65.9 million, or 1.5 million shares, using existing Board authorizations at an average price of $45.17 per share to meet obligations under our company’s employee benefit plans and for general corporate purposes.

Issuance of Common Stock

On June 5, 2015, we issued 1.4 million shares related to the purchase of Sterne Agee Group, Inc. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding the acquisition.