FORM 10-Q
Table of Contents

 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2009
Commission File Number 1-10312
(SYNOVUS LOGO)
SYNOVUS FINANCIAL CORP.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
GEORGIA
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  58-1134883
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
1111 Bay Avenue, Suite # 500
P.O. Box 120
Columbus, Georgia 31902

(Address of principal executive offices)
(706) 649-2311
(Registrants’ telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes  þ      No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every interactive data file required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes  o      No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “accelerated filer, large accelerated filer and smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large Accelerated Filer þ Accelerated Filer o 
Non-Accelerated Filer o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller Reporting Company o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes  o      No þ
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s class of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
     
Class   July 31, 2009
Common Stock, $1.00 Par Value   330,372,763 shares
 
 

 


 

SYNOVUS FINANCIAL CORP.
INDEX
             
 
           
  Financial Information:        
 
           
  Unaudited Financial Statements        
 
           
 
  Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008     3  
 
           
 
  Consolidated Statements of Income for the Six and Three Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008     4  
 
           
 
  Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008     5  
 
           
 
  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008     6  
 
           
 
  Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements     7  
 
           
  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations     36  
 
           
  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk     77  
 
           
  Controls and Procedures     78  
 
           
  Other Information:        
 
           
  Legal Proceedings     79  
 
           
  Risk Factors     82  
 
           
  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds     85  
 
           
  Submission Of Matters To A Vote Of Security Holders     86  
 
           
  Exhibits     87  
 
           
        88  
 
           
Index to Exhibits     89  
 EX-10.1
 EX-10.2
 EX-12.1
 EX-31.1
 EX-31.2
 EX-32

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Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1 — FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SYNOVUS FINANCIAL CORP.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(unaudited)
                 
    June 30,     December 31,  
(In thousands, except share data)   2009     2008  
ASSETS
               
Cash and due from banks
  $ 442,702       524,327  
Interest bearing funds with Federal Reserve Bank
    770,220       1,206,168  
Interest earning deposits with banks
    7,269       10,805  
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under resale agreements
    170,824       388,197  
Trading account assets
    20,687       24,513  
Mortgage loans held for sale, at fair value
    312,620       133,637  
Other loans held for sale
    34,938       3,527  
Investment securities available for sale, at fair value
    3,560,192       3,770,022  
 
               
Loans, net of unearned income
    27,585,741       27,920,177  
Allowance for loan losses
    (918,723 )     (598,301 )
 
           
Loans, net
    26,667,018       27,321,876  
 
           
 
               
Premises and equipment, net
    596,172       605,019  
Goodwill
    39,280       39,521  
Other intangible assets, net
    18,914       21,266  
Other assets
    1,708,834       1,737,391  
 
           
Total assets
  $ 34,349,670       35,786,269  
 
           
 
               
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
               
Liabilities:
               
Deposits:
               
Non-interest bearing deposits
  $ 3,861,782       3,563,619  
Interest bearing deposits ($— and $75,875 at fair value as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008)
    23,562,032       25,053,560  
 
           
Total deposits
    27,423,814       28,617,179  
Federal funds purchased and other short-term borrowings
    1,580,259       725,869  
Long-term debt
    1,865,491       2,107,173  
Other liabilities
    424,943       516,541  
 
           
Total liabilities
    31,294,507       31,966,762  
 
           
Equity:
               
Shareholders’ equity:
               
Cumulative perpetual preferred stock — no par value. Authorized 100,000,000 shares; outstanding 967,870 at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008
    923,855       919,635  
Common stock — $1.00 par value. Authorized 600,000,000 shares; issued 336,059,457 in 2009 and 336,010,941 in 2008; outstanding 330,376,784 in 2009 and 330,334,111 in 2008
    336,059       336,011  
Additional paid-in capital
    1,170,639       1,165,875  
Treasury stock, at cost — 5,682,673 shares in 2009 and 5,676,830 shares in 2008
    (114,146 )     (114,117 )
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    105,520       129,253  
Retained earnings
    596,434       1,350,501  
 
           
Total shareholders’ equity
    3,018,361       3,787,158  
Noncontrolling interest in subsidiaries
    36,802       32,349  
 
           
Total equity
    3,055,163       3,819,507  
 
           
Total liabilities and equity
  $ 34,349,670       35,786,269  
 
           
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents

SYNOVUS FINANCIAL CORP.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(unaudited)
                                 
    Six Months Ended     Three Months Ended  
    June 30,     June 30,  
(In thousands, except per share data)   2009     2008     2009     2008  
 
 
Interest income:
                               
Loans, including fees
  $ 672,181       863,959       335,952       408,653  
Investment securities available for sale
    89,853       91,042       44,341       45,886  
Trading account assets
    611       1,022       277       388  
Mortgage loans held for sale
    6,704       3,997       3,322       2,301  
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under resale agreements
    239       1,875       41       855  
Interest on Federal Reserve balances
    989             509        
Interest earning deposits with banks
    308       125       49       57  
 
                       
Total interest income
    770,885       962,020       384,491       458,140  
 
                       
Interest expense:
                               
Deposits
    249,009       342,726       116,715       155,546  
Federal funds purchased and other short-term borrowings
    1,887       29,480       1,046       11,650  
Long-term debt
    20,141       37,744       10,122       17,523  
 
                       
Total interest expense
    271,037       409,950       127,883       184,719  
 
                       
Net interest income
    499,848       552,070       256,608       273,421  
Provision for losses on loans
    921,963       184,665       631,526       93,616  
 
                       
Net interest income (expense) after provision for losses on loans
    (422,115 )     367,405       (374,918 )     179,805  
 
                       
 
                               
Non-interest income:
                               
Service charges on deposit accounts
    58,401       54,461       29,702       26,070  
Fiduciary and asset management fees
    21,471       25,519       10,657       12,898  
Brokerage and investment banking income
    14,393       17,693       7,521       9,206  
Mortgage banking income
    23,912       13,847       14,590       5,686  
Bankcard fees
    26,436       26,417       13,755       14,198  
Other fee income
    16,412       21,266       8,722       10,081  
Increase in fair value of private equity investments, net
    8,090       4,946       8,090        
Proceeds from sale of MasterCard shares
    8,351       16,186       8,351       16,186  
Proceeds from redemption of Visa shares
          38,542              
Other non-interest income
    19,122       28,798       6,450       13,373  
 
                       
Total non-interest income
    196,588       247,675       107,838       107,698  
 
                       
 
                               
Non-interest expense:
                               
Salaries and other personnel expense
    221,294       231,806       109,315       109,676  
Net occupancy and equipment expense
    62,374       61,337       30,727       31,126  
FDIC insurance and other regulatory fees
    43,060       12,250       30,061       6,172  
Foreclosed real estate expense
    218,734       21,558       172,404       13,677  
Losses on other loans held for sale
    1,095       9,944       1,160       9,944  
Goodwill impairment
          27,000             27,000  
Professional fees
    17,312       13,394       10,355       8,454  
Visa litigation (recovery) expense
          (17,430 )            
Restructuring charges
    6,755       4,251       397       4,251  
Other operating expenses
    89,050       103,228       41,897       55,664  
 
                       
Total non-interest expense
    659,674       467,338       396,316       265,964  
 
                       
 
                               
Income (loss) before income taxes
    (885,201 )     147,742       (663,396 )     21,539  
Income tax expense (benefit)
    (164,220 )     52,952       (79,143 )     9,302  
 
                       
Net income (loss)
    (720,981 )     94,790       (584,253 )     12,237  
Net income attributable to non-controlling interest
    2,620       1,697       2,677       138  
 
                       
Net income (loss) attributable to controlling interest
    (723,601 )     93,093       (586,930 )     12,099  
Dividends and accretion of discount on preferred stock
    28,417             14,225        
 
                       
Net income (loss) available to common shareholders
  $ (752,018 )     93,093       (601,155 )     12,099  
 
                       
 
                               
Net income (loss) per share available to common shareholders:
                               
Basic
  $ (2.28 )     0.28       (1.82 )     0.04  
 
                       
Diluted
    (2.28 )     0.28       (1.82 )     0.04  
 
                       
 
                               
Weighted average shares outstanding:
                               
Basic
    329,818       329,071       329,850       329,173  
 
                       
Diluted
    329,818       331,568       329,850       331,418  
 
                       
 
                               
Dividends declared per share
  $ 0.02       0.34       0.01       0.17  
 
                       
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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SYNOVUS FINANCIAL CORP.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(unaudited)
                                                                 
                                    Accumulated                      
                    Additional             Other             Non-        
    Preferred     Common     Paid-In     Treasury     Comprehensive     Retained     Controlling        
(in thousands, except per share data)   Stock     Stock     Capital     Stock     Income (Loss)     Earnings     Interest     Total  
Balance at December 31, 2007
  $       335,529       1,101,209       (113,944 )     31,439       2,087,357             3,441,590  
Cumulative effect of adoption of EITF Issue No. 06-4
                                  (2,248 )           (2,248 )
Cumulative effect of adoption of SFAS No. 159
                                  58             58  
 
                                                               
Net Income
                                  93,093       1,697       94,790  
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
                                                               
Net unrealized gain on cash flow hedges
                            475                   475  
Change in unrealized gains/losses on investment securities available for sale, net of reclassification adjustment
                            (1,816 )                 (1,816 )
Amortization of postretirement unfunded health benefit
                            92                   92  
 
                                                           
Other comprehensive income
                            (1,249 )                 (1,249 )
 
                                                           
Comprehensive income
                                              93,541  
 
                                                             
Cash dividends declared — $0.34 per share
                                  (112,245 )           (112,245 )
Treasury shares purchased
                            (131 )                             (131 )
Issuance of non-vested stock, net of forfeitures
          (10 )     10                                
Share-based compensation expense
                7,675                               7,675  
Stock options exercised
          307       1,342                               1,649  
Share-based compensation tax benefit
                399                               399  
Change in ownership at majority-owned subsidiary
                                        22,395       22,395  
 
                                               
Balance at June 30, 2008
  $       335,826       1,110,635       (114,075 )     30,190       2,066,015       24.092       3,452,683  
 
                                               
 
                                                               
Balance at December 31, 2008
  $ 919,635       336,011       1,165,875       (114,117 )     129,253       1,350,501       32,349       3,819,507  
Net income (loss)
                                  (723,601 )     2,620       (720,981 )
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
                                                               
Net unrealized loss on cash flow hedges
                            (11,689 )                 (11,689 )
Change in unrealized gains/losses on investment securities available for sale, net of reclassification adjustment
                            (12,136 )                 (12,136 )
Amortization of postretirement unfunded health benefit
                              92                     92  
 
                                                           
Other comprehensive loss
                            (23,733 )                 (23,733 )
 
                                                           
Comprehensive loss
                                              (744,714 )
 
                                                             
Cash dividends declared on common stock — $0.02 per share
                                  (6,620 )           (6,620 )
Cash dividends paid on preferred stock — $20.28 per share
                                  (19,626 )           (19,626 )
Accretion of discount on preferred stock
    4,220                               (4,220 )            
Treasury shares purchased
                      (29 )                       (29 )
Issuance of non-vested stock, net of forfeitures
          (26 )     26                                
Vesting of restricted share units
          38       (38 )                              
Share-based compensation expense
                5,124                               5,124  
Stock options exercised
          36       217                               253  
Share-based compensation tax deficiency
                (765 )                             (765 )
Change in ownership at majority-owned subsidiary
                200                         1,833       2,033  
 
                                               
Balance at June 30, 2009
  $ 923,855       336,059       1,170,639       (114,146 )     105,520       596,434       36,802       3,055,163  
 
                                               
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents

SYNOVUS FINANCIAL CORP.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(unaudited)
                 
    Six Months Ended  
    June 30,  
(In thousands)   2009     2008  
Operating activities:
               
Net income (loss)
  $ (720,981 )     94,790  
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Provision for losses on loans
    921,963       184,665  
Depreciation, amortization and accretion, net
    30,028       27,715  
Goodwill impairment
          27,000  
Equity in loss of equity method investments
          (1,412 )
Deferred tax (benefit) expense
    135,039       1,125  
Decrease in interest receivable
    25,972       59,348  
Decrease in interest payable
    (10,965 )     (33,283 )
Decrease (increase) in trading account assets
    3,826       (2,401 )
Originations and purchase of mortgage loans held for sale
    (1,276,341 )     (625,996 )
Proceeds from sales of mortgage loans held for sale
    1,101,446       597,445  
Gain on sale of mortgage loans held for sale
    (9,934 )     (5,831 )
(Increase) Decrease in prepaid and other assets
    (159,268 )     12,005  
(Decrease) in accrued salaries and benefits
    (15,587 )     (20,676 )
Decrease (Increase) in other liabilities
    (48,531 )     35,846  
Loss on sale of other loans held for sale
    1,095       9,944  
Loss on other real estate
    205,469       7,558  
Increase in fair value of private equity investments, net
    (8,090 )     (4,946 )
(Gain) loss on sale of MasterCard shares
    (8,351 )     (16,186 )
(Gain) loss on redemption of Visa shares
          (38,542 )
Decrease in liability for Visa litigation
          (17,430 )
Share-based compensation
    5,122       7,732  
Excess tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements
          (357 )
Other, net
    (2,240 )     (2,534 )
 
           
Net cash provided by operating activities
    169,672       295,579  
 
           
 
               
Investing activities:
               
Net increase (decrease) in interest earning deposits with banks
    3,536       (6,387 )
Net decrease (increase) in federal funds sold and securities purchased under resale agreements
    217,373       (76,091 )
Proceeds from maturities and principal collections of investment securities available for sale
    470,295       669,286  
Net decrease in interest bearing funds with Federal Reserve Bank
    435,948        
Proceeds from sales of investment securities available for sale
          3,309  
Purchases of investment securities available for sale
    (277,042 )     (817,795 )
Proceeds from sale of loans
    120,284        
Proceeds from sale of other loans held for sale
    11,964       10,669  
Proceeds from sale of other real estate
    164,493       62,552  
Net increase in loans
    (773,837 )     (1,290,126 )
Purchases of premises and equipment
    (21,837 )     (63,012 )
Proceeds from disposals of premises and equipment
    2,671       2,115  
Proceeds from sale of MasterCard shares
    8,351       16,186  
Proceeds from redemption of Visa shares
          38,542  
 
           
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities
    362,199       (1,450,752 )
 
           
 
               
Financing activities:
               
Net increase in demand and savings deposits
    73,536       230,526  
Net (decrease) increase in certificates of deposit
    (1,266,901 )     838,010  
Net increase (decrease) in federal funds purchased and other short-term borrowings
    854,390       (31,502 )
Principal repayments on long-term debt
    (756,987 )     (38,041 )
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
    525,000       270,300  
Treasury shares purchased
    (29 )     (131 )
Excess tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements
          357  
Dividends paid to common shareholders
    (23,132 )     (123,744 )
Dividends paid to preferred shareholders
    (19,626 )      
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
    253       1,649  
 
           
Net cash (used) provided by financing activities
    (613,496 )     1,147,424  
 
           
 
               
Decrease in cash and due from banks
    (81,625 )     (7,749 )
Cash and due from banks at beginning of period
    524,327       682,583  
 
           
Cash and due from banks at end of period
  $ 442,702       674,834  
 
           
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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SYNOVUS FINANCIAL CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
Note 1 — Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and therefore do not include all information and footnotes necessary for a fair presentation of financial position, results of operations, and cash flows in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. All adjustments consisting of normally recurring accruals that, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and results of operations for the periods covered by this report have been included. The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Synovus Financial Corp. (Synovus) consolidated financial statements and related notes appearing in Synovus’ 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K previously filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the respective balance sheets, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the periods presented. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change relate to the determination of the fair value of investments; the allowance for loan losses; the valuation of other real estate; the valuation of long-lived assets and other intangible assets; the valuation of deferred tax assets; and the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. In connection with the determination of the allowance for loan losses and the valuation of certain impaired loans and other real estate, management obtains independent appraisals for significant properties and for properties collateralizing impaired loans. For valuation of impaired loans and other real estate, management also considers other factors or recent developments such as changes in absorption rates or market conditions at the time of valuation, and anticipated sales values based on management’s plans for disposition.
A substantial portion of Synovus’ loans are secured by real estate in five southeastern states (Georgia, Alabama, Florida, South Carolina, and Tennessee). Accordingly, the ultimate collectibility of a substantial portion of Synovus’ loan portfolio is susceptible to changes in market conditions in these areas. Management believes that the allowance for loan losses is adequate. While management uses available information to recognize losses on loans, future additions to the allowance may be necessary based on changes in economic conditions and ability of borrowers to repay their loans. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review Synovus’ allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require Synovus to make changes to the allowance for loan losses based on their judgment about information available to them at the time of their examination.
Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the presentation adopted in 2009.

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Note 2 — Supplemental Cash Flow Information
For the six months ended June 30, 2009, Synovus received tax refunds of approximately $62.2 million (net of taxes paid) and for the six months ended June 30, 2008, Synovus paid income taxes (net of refunds received) of approximately $56.4 million. A tax refund of $66.0 million received during the six months ended June 30, 2009 resulted from tax prepayments during the first half of 2008, which were more than offset by the tax benefit from operating losses during the second half of 2008. The tax amount for the six months ended June 30, 2008 was impacted by tax overpayment credits from 2007 that were applied towards the 2008 income tax liability.
For the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, Synovus paid interest of $256.0 million and $372.9 million, respectively.
Non-cash investing activities consisted of loans of approximately $337.5 million and $171.3 million, which were foreclosed and transferred to other real estate during the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively, other loans of approximately $47.3 million and $42.3 million, which were transferred to other loans held for sale during the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and other loans held for sale of approximately $1.7 million, which were foreclosed and transferred to other real estate during the six months ended June 30, 2009.
Note 3 — Comprehensive Income
Other comprehensive income (loss) consists of the change in net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, the change in net unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities available for sale, and the amortization of the post-retirement unfunded health benefit. Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income (loss) plus other comprehensive income (loss).
Comprehensive income (loss) for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 is presented below:
                                 
    Six Months Ended     Three Months Ended  
    June 30,     June 30,  
(in thousands)   2009     2008     2009     2008  
Net income (loss)
  $ (720,981 )     94,790       (584,253 )     12,237  
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
                               
Change in net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges
    (11,689 )     475       (7,658 )     (11,825 )
Change in net unrealized losses on investment securities available for sale, net of reclassification adjustment
    (12,136 )     (1,816 )     (11,881 )     (50,107 )
Amortization of postretirement unfunded health benefit
    92       92       46       46  
 
                       
Other comprehensive loss
    (23,733 )     (1,249 )     (19,493 )     (61,886 )
 
                       
Comprehensive income (loss)
  $ (744,714 )     93,541       (603,746 )     (49,649 )
 
                       

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Note 4 — Investment Securities
The following tables summarize Synovus’ available for sale investment securities as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008:
                                 
    June 30, 2009  
            Gross     Gross        
    Amortized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Fair  
(in thousands)   Cost     Gains     Losses     Value  
U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 1,079                   1,079  
Other U.S. Government agency securities
    1,463,391       51,456       (1,490 )     1,513,357  
Government agency issued mortgage-backed securities
    1,743,716       72,956       (259 )     1,816,413  
Government agency issued collateralized mortgage obligations
    100,867       2,739             103,606  
State and municipal securities
    104,502       2,262       (366 )     106,398  
Equity securities
    9,205       2,041             11,246  
Other investments
    7,939       154             8,093  
 
                       
Total
  $ 3,430,699       131,608       (2,115 )     3,560,192  
 
                       
                                 
    December 31, 2008  
            Gross     Gross        
    Amortized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Fair  
(in thousands)   Cost     Gains     Losses     Value  
U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 4,576       2             4,578  
Other U.S. Government agency securities
    1,474,409       78,227             1,552,636  
Government agency issued mortgage-backed securities
    1,888,128       68,411       (568 )     1,955,971  
Government agency issued collateralized mortgage obligations
    114,727       1,877       (162 )     116,442  
State and municipal securities
    120,552       3,046       (317 )     123,281  
Equity securities
    9,455             (1,288 )     8,167  
Other investments
    9,021             (74 )     8,947  
 
                       
Total
  $ 3,620,868       151,563       (2,409 )     3,770,022  
 
                       
At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, investment securities with a carrying value of $2.5 billion and $3.1 billion, respectively, were pledged to secure certain deposits, securities sold under repurchase agreements, and Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) advances, as required by law and contractual agreements.
At June 30, 2009, Synovus has reviewed investment securities that are in an unrealized loss position in accordance with its accounting policy for other-than-temporary impairment and, other than noted below, does not consider them other-than-temporarily impaired. Subsequent to June 30, 2009, as part of an investment portfolio reallocation strategy, management has been reviewing specific securities within the available for sale portfolio for potential sale. Based upon the securities under sale consideration, any amount of loss recognized would be inconsequential. With the exception of this small group of securities under review, Synovus does not intend to sell its debt securities and it is more likely than not that Synovus will not be required to sell the securities prior to recovery. Additionally, the decline in value is not attributable to credit losses.

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Gross unrealized losses on investment securities and the fair value of the related securities, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position, at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, were as follows:
                                                 
    June 30, 2009  
    Less than 12 Months     12 Months or Longer     Total Fair Value  
    Fair     Unrealized     Fair     Unrealized     Fair     Unrealized  
(in thousands)   Value     Losses     Value     Losses     Value     Losses  
U.S. Treasury securities
  $                                
Other U.S. Government agency securities
    88,145       (1,490 )                 88,145       (1,490 )
Government agency issued mortgage-backed securities
    63,271       (259 )     42             63,313       (259 )
Government agency issued collateralized mortgage obligations
                61             61        
State and municipal securities
    10,726       (334 )     2,123       (32 )     12,849       (366 )
Equity securities
                                   
Other investments
                                   
 
                                   
Total
  $ 162,142       (2,083 )     2,226       (32 )     164,368       (2,115 )
 
                                   
                                                 
    December 31, 2008  
    Less than 12 Months     12 Months or Longer     Total Fair Value  
    Fair     Unrealized     Fair     Unrealized     Fair     Unrealized  
(in thousands)   Value     Losses     Value     Losses     Value     Losses  
U.S. Treasury securities
  $                                
Other U.S. Government agency securities
                                   
Government agency issued mortgage-backed securities
    120,428       (437 )     18,480       (131 )     138,908       (568 )
Government agency issued collateralized mortgage obligations
    19,410       (98 )     9,104       (64 )     28,514       (162 )
State and municipal securities
    4,724       (142 )     2,246       (175 )     6,970       (317 )
Equity securities
    4,012       (1,288 )                 4,012       (1,288 )
Other investments
                926       (74 )     926       (74 )
 
                                   
Total
  $ 148,574       (1,965 )     30,756       (444 )     179,330       (2,409 )
 
                                   
Synovus holds two debt securities, classified as other investments within its portfolio of available for sale investment securities, for which the fair value is other-than-temporarily impaired. These securities were fully impaired and had no carrying value at June 30, 2009. At December 31, 2008, the carrying value of these securities was approximately $819 thousand. During the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, Synovus recorded impairment charges of $819 thousand and $380 thousand, respectively, for other-than-temporary impairment. These charges are fully credit related, and have been recognized as a component of non-interest income.
During the three months ended June 30, 2009, Synovus adopted the Financial Accounting Standard Board (FASB) Staff Position (FSP) No. FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments.” FSP No. FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2 are intended to bring greater consistency to the timing of impairment recognition, and provide greater clarity to investors about the credit and noncredit components of impaired debt securities that are not expected to be sold. The impact to Synovus was insignificant.

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The amortized cost and estimated fair value by contractual maturity of investment securities available for sale at June 30, 2009 are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without a call or prepayment penalties.
                 
    June 30, 2009  
    Amortized     Estimated  
(in thousands)   Cost     Fair Value  
 
               
U.S. Treasury securities:
               
Within 1 year
  $ 199       199  
1 to 5 years
    880       880  
5 to 10 years
           
More than 10 years
           
 
           
Total U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 1,079       1,079  
 
           
 
               
U.S. Government agency securities:
               
Within 1 year
  $ 285,386       290,964  
1 to 5 years
    485,461       505,474  
5 to 10 years
    505,813       523,032  
More than 10 years
    186,731       193,887  
 
           
Total U.S. Government agency securities
  $ 1,463,391       1,513,357  
 
           
 
               
State and municipal securities:
               
Within 1 year
  $ 11,817       11,924  
1 to 5 years
    46,591       47,747  
5 to 10 years
    35,541       36,298  
More than 10 years
    10,553       10,429  
 
           
Total state and municipal securities
  $ 104,502       106,398  
 
           
 
               
Other investments:
               
Within 1 year
  $        
1 to 5 years
    997       997  
5 to 10 years
    1,800       1,800  
More than 10 years
    5,142       5,296  
 
           
Total other investments
  $ 7,939       8,093  
 
           
 
               
Equity securities
  $ 9,205       11,246  
Government agency issued mortgage-backed securities
    1,743,716       1,816,413  
Government agency issued collateralized mortgage obligations
    100,867       103,606  
 
           
Total investment securities
  $ 3,430,699       3,560,192  
 
           
 
               
Within 1 year
  $ 297,402       303,087  
1 to 5 years
    533,929       555,098  
5 to 10 years
    543,154       561,130  
More than 10 years
    202,426       209,612  
Equity securities
    9,205       11,246  
Government agency issued mortgage-backed securities
    1,743,716       1,816,413  
Government agency issued collateralized mortgage obligations
    100,867       103,606  
 
           
Total
  $ 3,430,699       3,560,192  
 
           

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Note 5 — Restructuring Charges
Restructuring charges represent severance and other project related costs incurred in conjunction with the implementation of Project Optimus (an initiative focused on operating efficiency gains and enhanced revenue growth) as well as severance costs associated with additional job function and position eliminations identified during the first quarter of 2009 as part of a continued effort to manage a leaner organization. Synovus expects to incur approximately $25.0 million in restructuring costs related to these efficiency efforts, of which $16.1 million was recorded through December 31, 2008. Synovus recorded $6.8 million and $397 thousand in restructuring (severance) charges during the six and three months ended June 30, 2009. Synovus has recorded cumulative restructuring charges through June 30, 2009 of $22.9 million. At June 30, 2009, Synovus had an accrued liability of $3.5 million related to restructuring charges.
Note 6 — Standby Letters of Credit
Synovus provides credit enhancements in the form of standby letters of credit to assist certain commercial customers in obtaining long-term funding through taxable and tax-exempt bond issues. Under these agreements and under certain conditions, if the bondholder requires the issuer to repurchase the bonds, Synovus is obligated to provide funding under the letter of credit to the issuer to finance the repurchase of the bonds by the issuer. Bondholders (investors) may require the issuer to repurchase the bonds on a weekly basis for reasons including general liquidity needs of the investors, general industry/market considerations, as well as changes in Synovus’ credit ratings. Synovus’ maximum exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the counterparty is represented by the contract amount of those instruments. Synovus applies the same credit policies in entering into commitments and conditional obligations as it does for loans. The maturities and yields of the funded letters of credit are comparable to those for new commercial loans. Synovus has issued approximately $1.37 billion in letters of credit related to these bond issuances. At June 30, 2009, substantially all of these standby letters of credit have been funded and are now reported as a component of total loans.
Note 7 — Other Loans Held for Sale
Loans or pools of loans are transferred to the other loans held for sale portfolio when the intent to hold the loans has changed due to portfolio management or risk mitigation strategies, there is a plan to sell the loans within a reasonable period of time, and the individual loans are specifically identified. The value of the loans or pools of loans is primarily determined by analyzing the underlying collateral of the loan and the anticipated external market prices of similar assets. At the time of transfer, if the estimated net realizable value is less than the carrying amount, the difference is recorded as a charge-off against the allowance for loan losses. Decreases in estimated net realizable value subsequent to the transfer as well as losses (gains) from sale of these loans are recognized as a component of non-interest expense. During the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, Synovus transferred loans with a cost basis totaling $97.5 million and $56.7 million to the other loans held for sale portfolio, respectively. Synovus recognized charge-offs on these loans totaling $50.2 million and $30.7 million for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, respectively. These charge-offs, which resulted in a new cost basis of $47.3 million and $26.0 million for the loans transferred during for the six and nine months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, were based on the estimated sales price of the loans at the time of transfer. Subsequent to their transfer to the other loans held for sale portfolio, Synovus foreclosed on certain other loans held for sale and transferred foreclosed assets of $1.7 million to other real estate during the six months ended June 30, 2009.

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Note 8 — Loans, Net of Unearned Income
Loans, net of unearned income, at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 are presented below:
                 
    June 30,     December 31,  
(in thousands)   2009     2008  
Investment properties
  $ 5,897,025       5,522,751  
1-4 family properties
    4,393,608       5,177,246  
Land acquisition
    1,619,395       1,620,370  
 
           
Total commercial real estate loans
    11,910,028       12,320,367  
Commercial and industrial loans
    11,374,893       11,247,267  
Retail loans
    4,329,129       4,389,926  
 
           
Total loans
    27,614,050       27,957,560  
Unearned income
    (28,309 )     (37,383 )
 
           
Loans, net of unearned income
  $ 27,585,741       27,920,177  
 
           
Note 9 — Allowance for Loan Losses
Activity in the allowance for loan losses for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 is presented below:
                                 
    Six Months Ended     Three Months Ended  
    June 30,     June 30,  
(in thousands)   2009     2008     2009     2008  
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 598,301       367,613       642,422       394,848  
Provision for losses on loans
    921,963       184,665       631,526       93,616  
Loans charged off, net of recoveries
    (601,541 )     (134,465 )     (355,225 )     (70,651 )
 
                       
Balance, end of period
  $ 918,723       417,813       918,723       417,813  
 
                       
Note 10 — Other Real Estate
Other real estate (ORE) consists of properties obtained through a foreclosure proceeding or through an in-substance foreclosure in satisfaction of loans. In accordance with SFAS No. 114, “Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan,” and SFAS No. 15, “Accounting by Debtors and Creditors for Troubled Debt Restructurings,” a loan is classified as an in-substance foreclosure when Synovus has taken possession of collateral regardless of whether formal foreclosure proceedings have taken place.
ORE is reported at the lower of cost or fair value, determined on the basis of current appraisals, comparable sales, and other estimates of fair value obtained principally from independent sources, adjusted for estimated selling costs. Management also considers other factors or recent developments such as changes in absorption rates or market conditions from the time of valuation, and anticipated sales values considering management’s plans for disposition, which could result in adjustment to the collateral value estimates indicated in the appraisals. At the time of foreclosure or initial possession of collateral, any excess of the loan balance over the fair value of the real estate held as collateral is recorded as a charge against the allowance for loan losses. Revenue and expenses from ORE operations as well as gains or losses on sale and any subsequent adjustments to the value are recorded as foreclosed real estate expense, a component of non-interest expense.

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The carrying value of ORE was $211.0 million and $246.1 million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. During the six months ended June 30, 2009, approximately $337.5 million of loans and $1.7 million of other loans held for sale were foreclosed and transferred to other real estate. During the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, Synovus recognized foreclosed real estate expenses of $218.7 million and $21.6 million, respectively.
Foreclosed real estate expenses recognized during the six months ended June 30, 2009 include an $186.4 million charge for the recognition of declines in fair value or reductions in estimated realizable value subsequent to the date of foreclosure, $19.0 million in net losses resulting from sales transactions which have already closed, $9.8 million in carrying costs associated with ORE, and $3.5 million in legal and appraisal fees.
Synovus sold ORE with a carrying value of $243.0 million and $168.7 million during the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, principally through liquidation sales at prices less than fair value. Synovus received proceeds of approximately $164.4 million and $107.4 million and recognized charges for losses of $78.5 million and $61.3 million for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, in connection with these ORE sales. These losses included write-downs to net realizable value which preceded sales transactions, and to a lesser degree, losses on sale for differences between liquidation carrying values and the net proceeds received upon sale.
Note 11 — Fair Value Accounting
Effective January 1, 2008, Synovus adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (SFAS No. 157) and SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (SFAS No. 159). SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This statement did not introduce any new requirements mandating the use of fair value; rather, it unified the meaning of fair value and added additional fair value disclosures.
SFAS No.159 permits entities to make an irrevocable election, at specified election dates, to measure eligible financial instruments and certain other instruments at fair value. After the initial adoption, the election is made at the acquisition of an eligible financial asset, financial liability, or firm commitment or when certain specified reconsideration events occur. As of January 1, 2008, Synovus elected the fair value option (FVO) for mortgage loans held for sale and certain callable brokered certificates of deposit. Accordingly, a cumulative effect adjustment of $58 thousand ($91 thousand less $33 thousand of income taxes) was recorded as an increase to retained earnings.
In February 2008, the FASB issued FSP No. FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157,” which delayed the effective date for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis. As of January 1, 2009, Synovus adopted the provisions of FSP FAS 157-2 for all non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities.
During the three months ended June 30, 2009, Synovus adopted FSP No. FAS 157-4, “Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly.” FSP No. FAS 157-4 is intended to determine the fair value when there is no active market or where the inputs being used represent distressed sales. The impact to Synovus was insignificant.

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During the three months ended June 30, 2009, Synovus adopted FSP No. FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1, “Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments.” FSP No. FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1 expands the fair value disclosures required for all financial instruments that are currently not reflected on the balance sheet at fair value. The disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments not reflected at fair value on the balance sheet is now also required on an interim basis.
The following is a description of the assets and liabilities for which fair value has been elected, including the specific reasons for electing fair value.
Mortgage Loans Held for Sale
Mortgage loans held for sale (MLHFS) have been previously accounted for on a lower of aggregate cost or fair value basis pursuant to SFAS No. 65, “Accounting for Certain Mortgage Banking Activities” (SFAS No. 65). For certain mortgage loan types, fair value hedge accounting was utilized by Synovus to hedge a given mortgage loan pool, and the underlying mortgage loan balances were adjusted for the change in fair value related to the hedged risk (fluctuation in market interest rates) in accordance with SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”, as amended and interpreted (SFAS No. 133). For those certain mortgage loan types, Synovus is still able to achieve an effective economic hedge by being able to mark-to-market the underlying mortgage loan balances through the income statement, but has eliminated the operational time and expense needed to manage a hedge accounting program under SFAS No. 133. Previously under SFAS No. 65, Synovus was exposed, from an accounting perspective, only to the downside risk of market volatilities; however by electing FVO, Synovus may now also recognize the associated gains on the mortgage loan portfolio as favorable changes in the market occur.
Certain Callable Brokered Certificates of Deposit
Synovus has elected FVO for certain callable brokered certificates of deposit (CDs) to ease the operational burdens required to maintain hedge accounting for such instruments under the constructs of SFAS No. 133. Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 159, Synovus was highly effective in hedging the risk related to changes in fair value, due to fluctuations in market interest rates, by engaging in various interest rate derivatives. However, SFAS No. 133 requires an extensive documentation process for each hedging relationship and an extensive process related to assessing the effectiveness and measuring ineffectiveness related to such hedges. By electing FVO on these previously hedged callable brokered CDs, Synovus is still able to achieve an effective economic hedge by being able to mark-to-market the underlying CDs through the income statement, but has eliminated the operational time and expense needed to manage a hedge accounting program under SFAS No. 133.

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The following table summarizes the impact of adopting the fair value option for these financial instruments as of January 1, 2008. Amounts shown represent the carrying value of the affected instruments before and after the changes in accounting resulting from the adoption of SFAS No. 159.
                         
    Ending     Cumulative     Opening  
    Balance Sheet     Effect     Balance Sheet  
    December 31,     Adjustment     January 1,  
(dollars in thousands)   2007     Gain, net     2008  
Mortgage loans held for sale
  $ 153,437     $ 91     $ 153,528  
Certain callable brokered CDs
    293,842             293,842  
 
                     
Pre-tax cumulative effect of adoption of the fair value option
            91          
Deferred tax liability
            (33 )        
 
                     
Cumulative effect of adoption of the fair value option (increase to retained earnings)
          $ 58          
 
                     
Determination of Fair Value
SFAS No. 157 defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. SFAS No. 157 also establishes a fair value hierarchy for disclosure of fair value measurements based on significant inputs used to determine the fair value. The three levels of inputs are as follows:
     
Level 1
  Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 1 assets and liabilities include corporate debt and equity securities, as well as certain U.S. Treasury and U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise debt securities that are highly liquid and are actively traded in over-the-counter markets.
 
Level 2
  Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. Level 2 assets and liabilities include debt securities with quoted prices that are traded less frequently than exchange-traded instruments and derivative contracts whose value is determined using a pricing model with inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. This category generally includes certain U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises and agency mortgage-backed debt securities, obligations of states and municipalities, certain callable brokered certificates of deposit, collateralized mortgage obligations, derivative contracts, and mortgage loans held-for-sale.
 
Level 3
  Unobservable inputs that are supported by little if any market activity for the asset or liability. Level 3 assets and liabilities include financial instruments whose value is determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, as well as instruments for which the determination of fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation. This category primarily includes collateral-dependent impaired loans, other real estate, and certain private equity investments.

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Following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for the major categories of financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value.
Trading Account Assets/Liabilities and Investment Securities Available for Sale
Where quoted market prices are available in an active market, securities are valued at the last traded price by obtaining feeds from a number of live data sources including active market makers and inter-dealer brokers. These securities are classified as Level 1 within the valuation hierarchy and include U.S. Treasury securities, obligations of U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises, and corporate debt and equity securities. If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are estimated by using bid prices and quoted prices of pools or tranches of securities with similar characteristics. These types of securities are classified as Level 2 within the valuation hierarchy and consist of collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed debt securities, debt securities of U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises and agencies, and state and municipal bonds. In both cases, Synovus has evaluated the valuation methodologies of its third party valuation providers to determine whether such valuations are representative of an exit price in Synovus’ principal markets. In certain cases where there is limited activity or less transparency around inputs to valuation, securities are classified as Level 3 within the valuation hierarchy.
Mortgage Loans Held for Sale
Since quoted market prices are not available, fair value is derived from a hypothetical-securitization model used to project the “exit price” of the loan in securitization. The bid pricing convention is used for loan pricing for similar assets. The valuation model is based upon forward settlement of a pool of loans of identical coupon, maturity, product, and credit attributes. The inputs to the model are continuously updated with available market and historical data. As the loans are sold in the secondary market and predominantly used as collateral for securitizations, the valuation model represents the highest and best use of the loans in Synovus’ principal market. Mortgage loans held for sale are classified within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy.
Private Equity Investments
Private equity investments consist primarily of investments in venture capital funds. The valuation of these instruments requires significant management judgment due to the absence of quoted market prices, inherent lack of liquidity, and the long-term nature of such assets. Based on these factors, the ultimate realizable value of private equity investments could differ significantly from the values reflected in the accompanying financial statements. Private equity investments are valued initially based upon transaction price. Thereafter, Synovus uses information provided by the fund managers in the determination of estimated fair value. Valuation factors such as recent or proposed purchase or sale of debt or equity of the issuer, pricing by other dealers in similar securities, size of position held, liquidity of the market and changes in economic conditions affecting the issuer are used in the determination of estimated fair value. These private equity investments are classified as Level 3 within the valuation hierarchy.

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Private equity investments may also include investments in publicly traded equity securities, which have restrictions on their sale, generally obtained through an initial public offering. Investments in the restricted publicly traded equity securities are recorded at fair value based on the quoted market value less adjustments for regulatory or contractual sales restrictions. Discounts for restrictions are determined based upon the length of the restriction period and the volatility of the equity security. Investments in restricted publicly traded equity securities are classified as Level 2 within the valuation hierarchy.
Derivative Assets and Liabilities
Derivative instruments are valued using internally developed models. These derivatives include interest rate swaps, floors, caps, and collars. The sale of to-be-announced (TBA) mortgage-backed securities for current month delivery or in the future and the purchase of option contracts of similar duration are derivatives utilized by Synovus’ mortgage subsidiary, and are valued by obtaining prices directly from dealers in the form of quotes for identical securities or options using a bid pricing convention with a spread between bid and offer quotations. All of these types of derivatives are classified as Level 2 within the valuation hierarchy. The mortgage subsidiary originates mortgage loans which are classified as derivatives prior to the loan closing when there is a lock commitment outstanding to a borrower to close a loan at a specific interest rate. These derivatives are valued based on the other mortgage derivatives mentioned above except there are fall-out ratios for interest rate lock commitments that have an additional input which is considered Level 3. Therefore, this type of derivative instrument is classified as Level 3 within the valuation hierarchy. These amounts, however, are insignificant.
Certain Callable Brokered Certificates of Deposit
The fair value of certain callable brokered certificates of deposit is derived using several inputs in a valuation model that calculates the discounted cash flows based upon a yield curve. Once the yield curve is constructed, it is applied against the standard certificate of deposit terms that may include the principal balance, payment frequency, term to maturity, and interest accrual to arrive at the discounted cash flow based fair value. When valuing the call option, as applicable, implied volatility is obtained for a similarly dated interest rate swaption, and it is also entered in the model. These types of certificates of deposit are classified as Level 2 within the valuation hierarchy. As of June 30, 2009, all of these callable brokered certificates of deposit either have been called or have matured.

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Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The following tables present all financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis, including financial instruments for which Synovus has elected the fair value option as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 according to the SFAS No. 157 valuation hierarchy:
                                 
    June 30, 2009  
                            Total  
                            Assets/Liabilities  
(in thousands)   Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     at Fair Value  
 
                               
Assets
                               
Trading account assets
  $ 740       19,947             20,687  
Mortgage loans held for sale
          312,620             312,620  
Investment securities available for sale:
                               
U.S. Treasury securities
    1,079                   1,079  
Other U.S. Government agency securities
          1,513,357             1,513,357  
Government agency issued mortgage-backed securities
          1,816,413             1,816,413  
Government agency issued collateralized mortgage obligations
          103,606             103,606  
State and municipal securities
          106,398             106,398  
Equity securities
    2,844             8,402       11,246  
Other investments
                8,093       8,093  
 
                       
Total investment securities available for sale
    3,923       3,539,774       16,495       3,560,192  
Private equity investments
                135,653 (1)     135,653  
Derivative assets
          159,179       804       159,983  
 
Liabilities
                               
Trading account liabilities
  $       13,327             13,327  
Derivative liabilities
          132,398             132,398  
                                 
    December 31, 2008  
                            Total  
                            Assets/Liabilities  
(in thousands)   Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     at Fair Value  
 
                               
Assets
                               
Trading account assets
  $ 478       24,035             24,513  
Mortgage loans held for sale
          133,637             133,637  
Investment securities available for sale:
                               
U.S. Treasury securities
    4,578                   4,578  
Other U.S. Government agency securities
          1,552,636             1,552,636  
Government agency issued mortgage-backed securities
          1,955,971             1,955,971  
Government agency issued collateralized mortgage obligations
          116,442             116,442  
State and municipal securities
          123,281             123,281  
Equity securities
    2,756             5,411       8,167  
Other investments
                8,947       8,947  
 
                       
Total investment securities available for sale
    7,334       3,748,330       14,358       3,770,022  
Private equity investments
                123,475 (1)     123,475  
Derivative assets
          305,383       2,388       307,771  
 
Liabilities
                               
Brokered certificates of deposit (2)
  $       75,875             75,875  
Trading account liabilities
          17,287             17,287  
Derivative liabilities
          206,340             206,340  
 
(1)   Amount represents the recorded value of private equity investments before non-controlling interest. The value net of non-controlling interest was $95.7 million and $85.7 million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.
 
(2)   Amounts represent the value of certain callable brokered certificates of deposit for which Synovus has elected the fair value option under SFAS No. 159.

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Changes in Fair Value — FVO Items
The following table presents the changes in fair value included in the consolidated statements of income for items which the fair value election was made. The table does not reflect the change in fair value attributable to the related economic hedges Synovus used to mitigate interest rate risk associated with the financial instruments. These changes in fair value were recorded as a component of mortgage banking income and other non-interest income, as appropriate, and substantially offset the change in fair value of the financial instruments referenced below.
                                         
            Changes in Fair Value Gains (Losses)
            Six Months Ended   Three Months Ended
            June 30, 2009   June 30, 2009
    As of   Mortgage   Other   Mortgage   Other
    June 30,   Banking   Operating   Banking   Operating
(in thousands)   2009   Income   Income   Income   Income
 
                                       
Mortgage loans held for sale
  $ (512 )   $ (5,455 )           (3,779 )      
Certain callable brokered certificates of deposit
                520             18  
                                         
            Changes in Fair Value Gains (Losses)
            Six Months Ended   Three Months Ended
            June 30, 2008   June 30, 2008
    As of   Mortgage   Other   Mortgage   Other
    June 30,   Banking   Operating   Banking   Operating
(in thousands)   2008   Income   Income   Income   Income
 
                                       
Mortgage loans held for sale
  $ 104     $ (2,320 )           (2,370 )      
Certain callable brokered certificates of deposit
    90,722             (1,262 )           988  

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Changes in Level Three Fair Value Measurements
As noted above, Synovus uses significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) to fair-value certain assets and liabilities as of June 30, 2009 and 2008. The tables below includes a roll forward of the balance sheet amount for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 (including the change in fair value), for financial instruments of a material nature that are classified by Synovus within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy and are measured at fair value on a recurring basis.
                                 
    Six Months Ended June 30,  
    2009     2008  
    Investment             Investment        
    Securities     Private     Securities     Private  
    Available     Equity     Available     Equity  
(in thousands)   for Sale     Investments     for Sale     Investments  
Beginning balance, January 1
  $ 14,358       123,475       14,619       77,417  
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized):
                               
Included in earnings
          8,090 (1)           4,946 (1)
Unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income
    3,240             (125 )      
Purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements, net
    (1,103 )     4,088       (1,830 )     11,214  
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3
                       
 
                       
Ending balance, June 30
  $ 16,495       135,653       12,664       93,577  
 
                       
 
                               
The amount of total gains or (losses) for the period included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at June 30
  $ 3,240       8,090             4,946  
                                 
    Three Months Ended June 30,  
    2009     2008  
    Investment             Investment        
    Securities     Private     Securities     Private  
    Available     Equity     Available     Equity  
(in thousands)   for Sale     Investments     for Sale     Investments  
Beginning balance, April 1
  $ 15,529       124,166       13,610       86,905  
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized):
                               
Included in earnings
          8,090 (1)            
Unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income
    1,852             (53 )      
Purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements, net
    (886 )     3,397       (893 )     6,672  
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3
                       
 
                       
Ending balance, June 30
  $ 16,495       135,653       12,664       93,577  
 
                       
 
                               
The amount of total gains or (losses) for the period included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at June 30,
  $ 1,852       8,090              
 
(1)   Amount represents net gains from private equity investments before non-controlling interest. The net gain after non-controlling interest was $5.3 million for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009and $3.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008.

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The tables below summarize gains and losses due to changes in fair value, including both realized and unrealized gains and losses, recorded in earnings or changes in net assets for material Level 3 assets and liabilities for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008.
                                 
    Six Months Ended June 30,
    2009   2008
    Investment           Investment    
    Securities   Private   Securities   Private
    Available   Equity   Available   Equity
(in thousands)   for Sale   Investments   for Sale   Investments
Total increase in earnings
  $       8,090             4,946  
Change in unrealized losses to assets and liabilities still held at June 30, 2009
    3,240                    
                                 
    Three Months Ended June 30,
    2009   2008
    Investment           Investment    
    Securities   Private   Securities   Private
    Available   Equity   Available   Equity
(in thousands)   for Sale   Investments   for Sale   Investments
Total increase in earnings
  $       8,090              
Change in unrealized losses to assets and liabilities still held at June 30, 2008
    1,852                    
Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Non-recurring Basis
Certain assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis. These assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis and are not included in the tables above. These assets and liabilities primarily include impaired loans and other real estate. The amounts below represent only balances measured at fair value during the period and still held as of the reporting date, and losses recognized on those assets for all periods for which an income statement is presented.
                                         
                            Losses
                            Six Months   Three Months
                            Ended   Ended
  As of June 30, 2009   June 30,   June 30,
(in millions)   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   2009   2009
Impaired loans
  $               1,008.9       455.9       366.6 (1)
Other real estate
                211.0       127.0       103.1 (2)
                                         
                            Losses
                            Six Months   Three Months
                            Ended   Ended
  As of June 30, 2008   June 30,   June 30,
(in millions)   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   2008   2008
Impaired loans
  $  —             485.7       65.5       40.5 (1)
 
(1)   Represents the carrying value of loans for which adjustments are based on the appraised value of the collateral. The excess of carrying value over estimated net realizable value is charged off as a component of provision expense.
 
(2)   $211.0 million is the amount which is included in other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet and represents fair value for these assets. $127.0 million and $103.1 million represent losses resulting from valuation adjustments to ORE subsequent to their initial classification as ORE for the six and three months ending June 30, 2009, respectively.

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Loans under the scope of SFAS No. 114, “Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan” (SFAS No. 114), are evaluated for impairment using the present value of the expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, or as a practical expedient, a loan’s observable market price, or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. The measurement of impaired loans using future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate rather than the market rate of interest is not a fair value measurement and is therefore excluded from the requirements of SFAS No. 157. Impaired loans measured by applying the practical expedient in SFAS No. 114 are included in the requirements of SFAS No. 157.
Under the practical expedient, Synovus measures the fair value of collateral-dependent impaired loans based on the fair value of the collateral securing these loans. These measurements are classified as Level 3 within the valuation hierarchy. Substantially all impaired loans are secured by real estate. The fair value of this real estate is generally determined based upon appraisals performed by a certified or licensed appraiser using inputs such as absorption rates, capitalization rates, and comparables, adjusted for estimated selling costs. Management also considers other factors or recent developments such as changes in absorption rates or market conditions from the time of valuation, and anticipated sales values considering management plans for disposition, which could result in adjustment to the collateral value estimates indicated in the appraisals. Impaired loans are reviewed and evaluated on at least a quarterly basis for additional impairment and adjusted accordingly, based on the same factors identified above.
The fair value of ORE is determined on the basis of current appraisals, comparable sales, and other estimates of value obtained principally from independent sources, adjusted for estimated selling costs. An asset that is acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosures is valued at the fair value of the asset less the estimated cost to sell. The transfer at fair value results in a new cost basis for the asset. Subsequent to foreclosure, valuations are updated periodically, and assets are marked to current fair value, but not to exceed the new cost basis. Determination of fair value subsequent to foreclosure also considers management’s plans for disposition, including liquidation sales, which could result in adjustment to the collateral value estimates indicated in the appraisals.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
SFAS No. 107, “Disclosures About Fair Value of Financial Instruments” (SFAS 107) requires the disclosure of the estimated fair value of financial instruments including those financial instruments for which Synovus did not elect the fair value option. The following table presents the carrying and estimated fair values of on-balance sheet financial instruments at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008. The fair value represents management’s best estimates based on a range of methodologies and assumptions.
Cash and due from banks, interest bearing funds with the Federal Reserve Bank, interest earning deposits with banks, and federal funds sold and securities purchased under resale agreements are repriced on a short-term basis; as such, the carrying value closely approximates fair value.
The fair value of loans is estimated for portfolios of loans with similar financial characteristics. Loans are segregated by type, such as commercial, mortgage, home equity, credit card, and other consumer loans. Commercial loans are further segmented into certain collateral code groupings. The fair value of the loan portfolio is calculated, in accordance with SFAS 107, by discounting contractual cash flows using estimated market discount rates which reflect the credit and interest rate risk inherent in the loan. This method of estimating fair value does not incorporate the exit-price concept of fair value prescribed by SFAS No. 157.

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The fair value of deposits with no stated maturity, such as non-interest bearing demand accounts, interest bearing demand deposits, money market accounts, and savings accounts, is estimated to be equal to the amount payable on demand as of that respective date. The fair value of time deposits is based on the discounted value of contractual cash flows. The discount rate is estimated using the rates currently offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities. Short-term debt that matures within ten days is assumed to be at fair value. The fair value of other short-term and long-term debt with fixed interest rates is calculated by discounting contractual cash flows using estimated market discount rates.
                                 
    June 30, 2009   December 31, 2008
    Carrying   Estimated   Carrying   Estimated
(in thousands)   Value   Fair Value   Value   Fair Value
Financial assets:
                               
Cash and due from banks
  $ 442,702       442,702       524,327       524,327  
Interest bearing funds with Federal Reserve Bank
    770,220       770,220       1,206,168       1,206,168  
Interest earning deposits with banks
    7,269       7,269       10,805       10,805  
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under resale agreements
    170,824       170,824       388,197       388,197  
Trading account assets
    20,687       20,687       24,513       24,513  
Mortgage loans held for sale
    312,620       312,620       133,637       133,637  
Other loans held for sale
    34,938       34,938       3,527       3,527  
Investment securities available for sale
    3,560,192       3,560,192       3,770,022       3,770,022  
Loans, net
    26,667,018       26,303,827       27,321,876       27,227,473  
Derivative asset positions
    159,983       159,983       307,771       307,771  
Financial liabilities:
                               
Non-interest bearing deposits
  $ 3,861,782       3,861,782       3,563,619       3,563,619  
Interest bearing deposits
    23,562,032       23,677,583       25,053,560       25,209,084  
Federal funds purchased and other short-term borrowings
    1,580,259       1,580,259       725,869       725,869  
Trading account liabilities
    13,327       13,327       17,287       17,827  
Long-term debt
    1,865,491       1,574,033       2,107,173       1,912,679  
Derivative liability positions
    132,398       132,398       206,340       206,340  
Note 12 — Derivative Instruments
As part of its overall interest rate risk management activities, Synovus utilizes derivative instruments to manage its exposure to various types of interest rate risk. These derivative instruments consist of interest rate swaps, commitments to sell fixed-rate mortgage loans, and interest rate lock commitments made to prospective mortgage loan customers. Interest rate lock commitments represent derivative instruments since it is intended that such loans will be sold.
Synovus utilizes interest rate swaps to manage interest rate risks, primarily arising from its core banking activities. These interest rate swap transactions generally involve the exchange of fixed and floating rate interest rate payment obligations without the exchange of underlying principal amounts.

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The receive fixed interest rate swap contracts at June 30, 2009 are being utilized to hedge $650 million in floating rate loans and $349 million in fixed-rate liabilities. A summary of interest rate swap contracts and their terms at June 30, 2009 is shown below. In accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 133, the fair value (net unrealized gains and losses) of these contracts has been recorded on the consolidated balance sheets.
                                                 
            Weighted-Average        
                            Maturity        
    Notional     Receive     Pay     In     Fair Value  
(dollars in thousands)   Amount     Rate     Rate(*)     Months     Assets     Liabilities  
Receive fixed interest rate swaps:
                                               
Fair value hedges
  $ 348,936       2.35 %     0.67 %     7     $ 1,663       (16 )
Cash flow hedges
    650,000       7.93 %     3.25 %     19       37,057        
 
                                         
Total
  $ 998,936       5.98 %     2.35 %     15     $ 38,720       (16 )
 
                                         
 
(*)   Variable pay rate based upon contract rates in effect at June 30, 2009.
Cash Flow Hedges
Synovus designates hedges of floating rate loans as cash flow hedges. These swaps hedge against the variability of cash flows from specified pools of floating rate prime based loans. Synovus calculates effectiveness of the hedging relationship quarterly using regression analysis for all cash flow hedges entered into after March 31, 2007. The cumulative dollar offset method is used for all hedges entered into prior to that date. The effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of other comprehensive income and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affect earnings. Ineffectiveness from cash flow hedges is recognized in the consolidated statements of income as a component of other non-interest income. As of June 30, 2009, cumulative ineffectiveness for Synovus’ portfolio of cash flow hedges represented a gain of approximately $39 thousand.
Synovus expects to reclassify from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) approximately $18.1 million as net-of-tax income during the next twelve months, as the related payments for interest rate swaps and amortization of deferred gains (losses) are recorded.
Fair Value Hedges
Synovus designates hedges of fixed rate liabilities as fair value hedges. These swaps hedge against the change in fair market value of various fixed rate liabilities due to changes in the benchmark interest rate LIBOR. Synovus calculates effectiveness of the fair value hedges quarterly using regression analysis. As of June 30, 2009, cumulative ineffectiveness for Synovus’ portfolio of fair value hedges represented a gain of approximately $336 thousand. Ineffectiveness from fair value hedges is recognized in the consolidated statements of income as a component of other non-interest income.
Customer Related Derivative Positions
Synovus also enters into derivative financial instruments to meet the financing and interest rate risk management needs of its customers. Upon entering into these instruments to meet customer needs, Synovus enters into offsetting positions in order to minimize the interest rate risk to Synovus. These derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value with any resulting gain or loss recorded in current period earnings. As of June 30, 2009, the notional amount of customer related interest rate derivative financial instruments, including both the customer

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position and the offsetting position, was $3.68 billion, an increase of $27.9 million compared to December 31, 2008.
Mortgage Derivatives
Synovus originates first lien residential mortgage loans for sale into the secondary market and generally does not hold the originated loans for investment purposes. Mortgage loans are sold by Synovus for conversion to securities and the servicing is sold to a third party servicing aggregator, or the mortgage loans are sold as whole loans to investors either individually or in bulk.
At June 30, 2009, Synovus had commitments to fund primarily fixed-rate mortgage loans to customers in the amount of $181.4 million. The fair value of these commitments at June 30, 2009 resulted in an unrealized gain of $804 thousand, which was recorded as a component of mortgage banking income in the consolidated statements of income.
At June 30, 2009, outstanding commitments to sell primarily fixed-rate mortgage loans amounted to approximately $527.5 million. Such commitments are entered into to reduce the exposure to market risk arising from potential changes in interest rates, which could affect the fair value of mortgage loans held for sale and outstanding commitments to originate residential mortgage loans for resale.
The commitments to sell mortgage loans are at fixed prices and are scheduled to settle at specified dates that generally do not exceed 90 days. The fair value of outstanding commitments to sell mortgage loans at June 30, 2009 resulted in an unrealized loss of $4.8 million, which was recorded as a component of mortgage banking income in the consolidated statements of income.
Counterparty Credit Risk and Collateral
Entering into interest rate derivatives potentially exposes Synovus to the risk of counterparties’ failure to fulfill their legal obligations including, but not limited to, potential amounts due or payable under each derivative contract. Notional principal amounts are often used to express the volume of these transactions, but the amounts potentially subject to credit risk are much smaller. Synovus assesses the credit risk of its counterparties regularly, monitoring publicly available credit rating information as well as other market based or, where applicable, customer specific credit metrics. Collateral requirements are determined via policies and procedures and in accordance with existing agreements. Synovus minimizes credit risk by dealing with highly rated counterparties and by obtaining collateral as required by policy.
Collateral Contingencies
Certain of Synovus’ derivative instruments contain provisions that require Synovus to maintain an investment grade credit rating from each of the major credit rating agencies. Should Synovus’ credit rating fall below investment grade, these provisions allow the counterparties of the derivative instrument to request immediate termination or demand immediate and ongoing full overnight collateralization on derivative instruments in net liability positions. The aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with credit-risk-related contingent features that are in a liability position on June 30, 2009 is $127.6 million. During the second quarter of 2009, Moody’s and Standard and Poor’s downgraded Synovus and its affiliate banks ratings to below investment grade. Due to these downgrades, Synovus was required to post additional collateral against these positions. As of June 30, a total of $122.1 million of collateral has been pledged

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against liability derivative positions. Also as a result of these downgrades, Synovus received notification from two counterparties who exercised their provision to terminate their swap positions with Synovus. Synovus received $17.9 million as net settlements during the three months ended June 30, 2009 as a result of these terminations, including terminations of swaps in both asset and liability positions.
The impact of derivatives on the balance sheet at June 30, 2009 and 2008 is presented below:
                                                 
    Fair Value of Derivative Assets     Fair Value of Derivative Liabilities  
    Balance Sheet     June 30,     Balance Sheet     June 30,  
(in thousands)   Location     2009     2008     Location     2009     2008  
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments:
                                               
Interest rate contracts:
                                               
Fair value hedges
  Other assets   $ 1,663       13,277     Other liabilities   $ 16       1,414  
Cash flow hedges
  Other assets     37,057       31,439     Other liabilities           1,241  
 
                                       
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments
          $ 38,720       44,716             $ 16       2,655  
 
                                       
 
                                               
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:
                                               
Interest rate contracts
  Other assets   $ 120,459       64,437     Other liabilities   $ 127,621       65,585  
Mortgage derivatives
  Other assets     804       1,127     Other liabilities     4,761       (877 )
 
                                       
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
          $ 121,263       65,564             $ 132,382       64,708  
 
                                       
 
                                               
Total derivatives
          $ 159,983       110,280             $ 132,398       67,363  
 
                                       
The effect of derivatives on the consolidated statements of income for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 is presented below:
                                                                 
    Amount of Gain (Loss)     Location of     Amount of Gain (Loss)              
    Recognized in OCI on     Gain (Loss)     Reclassified from OCI     Location of     Amount of Gain (Loss)  
    Derivative     Reclassified     into Income     Gain (Loss)     Recognized in Income  
    Effective Portion     from OCI     Effective Portion     Recognized     Ineffective Portion  
    Six Months Ended     into Income     Six Months Ended     in Income     Six Months Ended  
    June 30,     Effective     June 30,     Ineffective     June 30,  
(in thousands)   2009     2008     Portion     2009     2008     Portion     2009     2008  
 
                                                               
 
                  Interest Income                   Other Non-Interest                
Interest rate contracts
  $ 5       6,047     (Expense)   $ 11,694       5,572     Income   $ (203 )     (20 )
 
                                                   
Total
  $ 5       6,047             $ 11,694       5,572             $ (203 )     (20 )
 
                                                   

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The effect of derivatives on the consolidated statements of income for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 is presented below:
                                                 
    Derivative     Hedged Item  
            Amount of Gain (Loss)             Amount of Gain (Loss)  
    Location of     Recognized in Income     Location of     Recognized in Income  
    Gain (Loss)     on Derivative     Gain (Loss)     On Hedged Item  
    Recognized in     Six Months Ended     Recognized in     Six Months Ended  
    Income on     June 30,     Income on     June 30,  
(in thousands)   Derivative     2009     2008     Hedged Item     2009     2008  
Derivatives Designated in Fair Value Hedging Relationships:
                                               
Interest rate contracts
  Other Non-Interest Income   $ (12,712 )     (6,219 )   Other Non-Interest Income   $ 12,066       7,129  
 
                                       
Total
          $ (12,712 )     (6,219 )           $ 12,066       7,129  
 
                                       
 
                                               
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:
                                               
Interest rate contracts
  Other Non-Interest Income (Expense)   $ (7,898 )     6,088                          
Mortgage derivatives
  Mortgage Revenues     (2,868 )     2,848                          
 
                                           
Total
          $ (10,766 )     8,936                          
 
                                           
The effect of derivatives on the consolidated statements of income for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 is presented below:
                                                                 
    Amount of Gain (Loss)     Location of     Amount of Gain (Loss)              
    Recognized in OCI on     Gain (Loss)     Reclassified from OCI     Location of     Amount of Gain (Loss)  
    Derivative     Reclassified     into Income     Gain (Loss)     Recognized in Income  
    Effective Portion     from OCI     Effective Portion     Recognized     Ineffective Portion  
    Three Months Ended     into Income     Three Months Ended     in Income     Three Months Ended  
    June 30,     Effective     June 30,     Ineffective     June 30,  
(in thousands)   2009     2008     Portion     2009     2008     Portion     2009     2008  
 
                  Interest Income                   Other Non-Interest                
Interest rate contracts
  $ (1,981 )     (8,283 )   (Expense)   $ 5,677       3,542     Income   $ 6       (1,343 )
 
                                                   
Total
  $ (1,981 )     (8,283 )           $ 5,677       3,542             $ 6       (1,343 )
 
                                                   

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The effect of derivatives on the consolidated statements of income for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 is presented below:
                                                 
    Derivative     Hedged Item  
            Amount of Gain (Loss)             Amount of Gain (Loss)  
    Location of     Recognized in Income     Location of     Recognized in Income  
    Gain (Loss)     on Derivative     Gain (Loss)     On Hedged Item  
    Recognized in     Three Months Ended     Recognized in     Three Months Ended  
    Income on     June 30,     Income on     June 30,  
(in thousands)   Derivative     2009     2008     Hedged Item     2009     2008  
Derivatives Designated in Fair Value Hedging Relationships:
                                               
Interest rate contracts
  Other Non-Interest Income   $ (6,831 )     (20,508 )   Other Non-Interest Income   $ 5,939       20,029  
 
                                       
Total
          $ (6,831 )     (20,508 )           $ 5,939       20,029  
 
                                       
 
                                               
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:
                                               
Interest rate contracts
  Other Non-Interest                                        
 
  Income (Expense)   $ (269 )     3,009                          
Mortgage derivatives
  Mortgage Revenues     (3,036 )     1,206                          
 
                                           
Total
          $ (3,305 )     4,215                          
 
                                           
Note 13 — Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock
On December 19, 2008, Synovus issued to the United States Department of the Treasury (Treasury) 967,870 shares of Synovus’ Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A, without par value (the Series A Preferred Stock), having a liquidation amount per share equal to $1,000, for a total price of $967,870,000. The Series A Preferred Stock pays cumulative dividends at a rate of 5% per year for the first five years and thereafter at a rate of 9% per year. Synovus may not redeem the Series A Preferred Stock during the first three years except with the proceeds from a qualified equity offering of not less than $241,967,500. After February 15, 2012, Synovus may, with the consent of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, redeem, in whole or in part, the Series A Preferred Stock at the liquidation amount per share plus accrued and unpaid dividends. The Series A Preferred Stock is generally non-voting. Prior to December 19, 2011, unless Synovus has redeemed the Series A Preferred Stock or the Treasury has transferred the Series A Preferred Stock to a third party, the consent of the Treasury will be required for Synovus to (1) declare or pay any dividend or make any distribution on common stock, par value $1.00 per share, other than regular quarterly cash dividends of not more than $0.06 per share, or (2) redeem, repurchase or acquire Synovus common stock or other equity or capital securities, other than in connection with benefit plans consistent with past practice. A consequence of the Series A Preferred Stock purchase includes certain restrictions on executive compensation that could limit the tax deductibility of compensation that Synovus pays to executive management. The recently enacted American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and the Treasury’s February 10, 2009, Financial Stability Plan and regulations issued on June 15, 2009 under these laws may retroactively affect Synovus and modify the terms of the Series A Preferred Stock. In particular, the ARRA provides that the Series A Preferred Stock may now be redeemed at any time with the consent of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

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As part of its issuance of the Series A Preferred Stock, Synovus issued the Treasury a warrant to purchase up to 15,510,737 shares of Synovus common stock (the Warrant) at an initial per share exercise price of $9.36. The Warrant provides for the adjustment of the exercise price and the number of shares of Synovus common stock issuable upon exercise pursuant to customary anti-dilution provisions, such as upon stock splits or distributions of securities or other assets to holders of our common stock, and upon certain issuances of our common stock at or below a specified price relative to the initial exercise price. The Warrant expires on December 19, 2018. If, on or prior to December 31, 2009, Synovus receives aggregate gross cash proceeds of not less than $967,870,000 from “qualified equity offerings” announced after October 13, 2008, the number of shares of common stock issuable pursuant to the Treasury’s exercise of the Warrant will be reduced by one-half of the original number of shares, taking into account all adjustments, underlying the Warrant. Pursuant to the Securities Purchase Agreement, the Treasury has agreed not to exercise voting power with respect to any shares of common stock issued upon exercise of the Warrant.
Synovus allocated the total proceeds received from the Treasury based on the relative fair values of the preferred shares and the Warrants. This allocation resulted in the preferred shares and the Warrants being initially recorded at amounts that are less than their respective fair values at the issuance date.
The $48.5 million discount on the Series A Preferred Stock is being accreted using a constant effective yield over the five-year period preceding the 9% perpetual dividend. Synovus records increases in the carrying amount of the preferred shares resulting from accretion of the discount by charges against retained earnings.
Note 14 — Income Taxes
Synovus’ income tax returns are subject to review and examination by federal, state and local taxing jurisdictions. Currently, no federal income tax return is under examination by the IRS. However, certain state income tax examinations are currently in progress. Although Synovus is unable to determine the ultimate outcome of these examinations, Synovus believes that current income tax reserves, determined in accordance with SFAS Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes — an interpretation of SFAS No, 109”, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (SFAS No. 109) are adequate for the uncertain income tax positions relating to these jurisdictions. Adjustments to reserves are made when necessary to reflect a change in the probability outcome.
In connection with the spin-off of TSYS on December 31, 2007, Synovus entered into an income tax sharing agreement with TSYS, which requires TSYS to indemnify Synovus from potential income tax liabilities that may arise in future examinations as a result of TSYS’ inclusion in Synovus’ consolidated income tax return filings for calendar years prior to 2008.

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A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized income tax benefits is as follows (1):
                 
    Six Months     Six Months  
    Ended     Ended  
    June 30,     June 30,  
(in thousands)   2009     2008  
Balance at January 1,
  $ 8,021       7,074  
First quarter activity:
               
Additions based on tax positions related to current year
    46       171  
Additions for tax positions of prior years
          1,299  
Deductions for tax positions of prior years
    (94 )     (337 )
Settlements
           
 
           
Net, first quarter activity
    (48 )     1,133  
 
           
Balance at March 31, 2009
    7,973       8,207  
Second quarter activity:
               
Additions based on tax positions related to current year
    89       322  
Additions for tax positions of prior years
    39        
Deductions for tax positions of prior years
    (51 )      
Settlements
           
 
           
Net, second quarter activity
    77       322  
 
           
Balance at June 30,
  $ 8,050       8,529  
 
           
 
(1)   Unrecognized state income tax benefits are not adjusted for the Federal income tax impact.
Accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized income tax benefits are included as a component of income tax expense (benefit). The amount of accrued interest and penalties on unrecognized income tax benefits totaled $1.5 million as of January 1 and June 30, 2009, respectively. The total amount of unrecognized income tax benefits as of January 1 and June 30, 2009 that, if recognized, would affect the effective income tax rate is $6.2 million (net of the Federal benefit on state income tax issues), respectively, which includes interest and penalties of $990 thousand and $979 thousand. Synovus expects that approximately $915 thousand of uncertain income tax positions will be either settled or resolved during the next twelve months.
During the three months ended June 30, 2009, Synovus performed its quarterly assessment of net deferred tax assets. Under SFAS No. 109, companies are required to assess whether a valuation allowance should be established against their deferred tax assets based on the consideration of all available evidence using a “more likely than not” standard. In making such judgments, significant weight is given to evidence that can be objectively verified. As a result of the increased credit losses, Synovus is now in a three-year cumulative pre-tax loss position as of June 30, 2009. A cumulative loss position is considered significant negative evidence in assessing the realizability of a deferred tax asset which is difficult to overcome. Synovus did not consider future taxable income in determining the realizability of its deferred tax assets. Synovus’ estimate of the realization of its deferred tax assets was solely based on future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, taxable income in prior carry back years, and tax planning strategies. This resulted in an increase to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance of approximately $173 million during the three months ended June 30, 2009. The increase in the valuation allowance was recorded through an adjustment to the estimated annual effective tax rate. Based on current projections, Synovus estimates that the effective tax rate for the second half of 2009 will remain at approximately the same level as the actual effective tax rate for the first half of 2009 (18.7%). While there are many factors that could impact the actual effective tax rate, a significant factor is management’s projection of a pre-tax loss for the year. If the projected pre-tax losses vary significantly from current estimates, the actual effective tax rate could vary significantly.

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A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of valuation allowance recorded against deferred tax assets is as follows:
                 
(in thousands)   2009     2008  
Balance at January 1
  $ 5,068        
Increase for three months ended March 31
    3,327       1,221  
Increase for the three months ended June 30
    173,424       767  
 
           
Balance at June 30
  $ 181,819       1,988  
 
           
Note 15 — Visa Initial Public Offering and Litigation Expense
Synovus is a member of the Visa USA network. Under Visa USA bylaws, Visa members are obligated to indemnify Visa USA and/or its parent company, Visa, Inc., for potential future settlement of, or judgments resulting from, certain litigation, which Visa refers to as the “covered litigation.” Synovus’ indemnification obligation is limited to its membership proportion of Visa USA. On November 7, 2007, Visa announced the settlement of its American Express litigation, and disclosed in its annual report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC for the year ended September 30, 2007 that Visa had accrued a contingent liability for the estimated settlement of its Discover litigation. During the second half of 2007, Synovus recognized a contingent liability in the amount of $36.8 million as an estimate for its membership proportion of the American Express settlement and the potential Discover settlement, as well as its membership proportion of the amount that Synovus estimates will be required for Visa to settle the remaining covered litigation.
Visa, Inc. completed an initial public offering (the Visa IPO) in March 2008. Visa used a portion of the proceeds from the Visa IPO to establish a $3.0 billion escrow for settlement of covered litigation and used substantially all of the remaining portion to redeem class B and class C shares held by Visa issuing members. During the three months ended March 31, 2008, Synovus recognized a pre-tax gain of $38.5 million on redemption proceeds received from Visa, Inc. and reduced the $36.8 million litigation accrual recognized in the second half of 2007 by $17.4 million for its membership proportion of the $3.0 billion escrow funded by Visa, Inc. During September 2008, Visa announced the settlement of its Discover litigation for approximately $1.74 billion. Synovus increased its litigation accrual by $6.3 million for its membership proportion of the incremental amount of the final Discover settlement over the previously estimated amount for the Discover settlement. During December 2008, Visa deposited $1.10 billion to the litigation escrow, effectively representing a repurchase of Class A common stock on an as-converted basis. Synovus reduced its litigation accrual by $6.4 million for its membership proportion of the amount deposited to the litigation escrow.
At June 30, 2009, Synovus’ accrual for the aggregate amount of Visa’s covered litigation was $19.3 million. For the six months ended June 30, 2008, the redemption of shares and changes to the accrued liability for Visa litigation resulted in a gain of $34.1 million, net of tax, or $0.10 per diluted share.

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Note 16 — Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141R, “Business Combinations” (SFAS 141R). SFAS 141R clarifies the definitions of both a business combination and a business. All business combinations will be accounted for under the acquisition method (previously referred to as the purchase method). This standard defines the acquisition date as the only relevant date for recognition and measurement of the fair value of consideration paid. SFAS 141R requires the acquirer to expense all acquisition related costs. SFAS 141R will also require acquired loans to be recorded at fair value on the date of acquisition. SFAS 141R defines the measurement period as the time after the acquisition date during which the acquirer may make adjustments to the “provisional” amounts recognized at the acquisition date. This period cannot exceed one year, and any subsequent adjustments made to provisional amounts are done retrospectively and restate prior period data. SFAS 141R was adopted by Synovus effective January 1, 2009 and is applicable to business combinations entered into after December 15, 2008. The estimated impact of adoption will not be determined until Synovus enters into a business combination.
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements — An Amendment of ARB No. 51” (SFAS 160). SFAS 160 requires noncontrolling interests to be treated as a separate component of equity, not as a liability or other item outside of equity. Disclosure requirements include net income and comprehensive income to be displayed for both the controlling and noncontrolling interests and a separate schedule that shows the effects of any transactions with the noncontrolling interests on the equity attributable to the controlling interests. Synovus adopted SFAS No. 160 effective January 1, 2009. The impact of adoption resulted in a change in balance sheet classification and presentation to non-controlling interests which is now reported as a separate component of equity.
In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities — An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (SFAS 161). SFAS 161 changes the disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and hedging activities. Disclosure requirements include qualitative disclosures about objectives and strategies for using derivatives, quantitative disclosures about fair value amounts of and gains/losses on derivative instruments, and disclosures about credit-risk-related contingent features in derivative agreements. Synovus adopted the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 161 effective January 1, 2009.
In June 2008, the FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 03-6-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based-Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities” (EITF 03-6-1). EITF 03-6-1 requires that unvested share-based payment awards that have nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents are participating securities and therefore should be included in computing earnings per share using the two-class method. EITF 03-6-1 was adopted by Synovus effective January 1, 2009. The impact of adoption was not material to Synovus’ financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
In November 2008, the EITF reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 08-6, “Equity Method Investment Accounting Considerations (EITF 08-6). EITF 08-6 addresses questions about the potential effect of SFAS 141R and SFAS 160 on equity-method accounting under Accounting Principles Board Opinion 18, “The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock” (APB 18). The EITF will continue existing practices under APB 18 including the use of a cost-accumulation approach to initial measurement of the investment. The EITF will not require the investor to perform a separate impairment test on the underlying assets of an equity method investment, but under APB 18, an overall other-than-temporary impairment test of its investment

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is still required. Shares subsequently issued by the equity-method investee that reduce the investor’s ownership percentage should be accounted for as if the investor had sold a proportionate share of its investment, with gains or losses recorded through earnings. EITF 08-6 was adopted by Synovus effective January 1, 2009. There was no impact of adoption to Synovus’ financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments. FAS 115-2 and 124-2 are intended to bring greater consistency to the timing of impairment recognition and provide greater clarity to investors about the credit and noncredit components of impaired debt securities that are not expected to be sold. FAS 115-2 and 124-2 provide that if a company does not have the intent to sell a debt security prior to recovery and it is more likely than not that it will not have to sell the security prior to recovery, the security would not be considered other-than-temporarily-impaired unless there is a credit loss. If there is an impairment due to a credit loss, the credit loss component will be recorded in earnings and the remaining portion of the impairment loss would be recognized in other comprehensive income. The credit loss component must be determined based on the company’s best estimate of the decrease in cash flows expected to be collected. The provisions of this statement are effective for interim and annual periods ended after June 15, 2009. Synovus adopted the provisions of FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2 effective April 1, 2009. The impact of adoption was not material to Synovus’ financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP FAS 157-4, “Determining Fair Value when the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That are Not Orderly.” FAS 157-4 relates to determining fair values when there is no active market or where the inputs being used represent distressed sales. This statement reaffirms the need to use judgment to ascertain if a formerly active market has become inactive and also assists in determining fair values when markets have become inactive. FAS 157-4 defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset in an orderly transaction (i.e. not a forced liquidation or distressed sale). Factors must be considered when applying this statement to determine whether there has been a significant decrease in volume and level of activity of the market for the asset. The provisions for this statement are effective for the interim and annual periods ended after June 15, 2009. Synovus adopted the provisions of FSP FAS 157-4 effective April 1, 2009. The impact of adoption was not material to Synovus’ financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1, “Interim Disclosures about the Fair Value of Financial Instruments.” FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1 provide guidance on fair value disclosures for any financial instruments that are not currently reflected on the balance sheet at fair value. This statement will require public companies to disclose the fair value of financial instruments within the scope of SFAS 107 in interim financial statements (verses disclosing in annual filings only). The provisions for this statement are effective for the interim and annual periods ended after June 15, 2009. Synovus adopted the disclosures requirement of FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 128-1 effective April 1, 2009.
In May 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 165, “Subsequent Events” (SFAS 165). SFAS 165 establishes general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date, but before financial statements are issued or available to be issued. This Statement sets forth (1) the period after the balance sheet date during which management of a reporting entity should evaluate events or transactions that may occur for potential recognition or disclosure in the financial statements, (2) the circumstances under which an entity should recognize events or transactions occurring after the balance sheet date in its financials, and (3)

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the disclosures that an entity should make about events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date. Synovus adopted SFAS No. 165 for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2009. The impact of adoption was not material to Synovus’ financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Synovus has evaluated all transactions, events and circumstances for consideration or disclosure through August 10, 2009, the date these financial statements were issued, and has reflected or disclosed those items within the consolidated financial statements and related footnotes as deemed appropriate.

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ITEM 2 — MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION
AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements made or incorporated by reference in this document which are not statements of historical fact, including those under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and elsewhere in this document, constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of, and subject to the protections of, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Forward-looking statements include statements with respect to Synovus’ beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, targets, expectations, anticipations, assumptions, estimates, intentions and future performance and involve known and unknown risks, many of which are beyond Synovus’ control and which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Synovus or the commercial banking industry or economy generally, to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.
All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. You can identify these forward-looking statements through Synovus’ use of words such as “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “assumes,” “should,” “predicts,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “intends,” “targets,” “estimates,” “projects,” “plans,” “potential” and other similar words and expressions of the future or otherwise regarding the outlook for Synovus’ future business and financial performance and/or the performance of the commercial banking industry and economy in general. Forward-looking statements are based on the current beliefs and expectations of Synovus’ management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements in this document. Many of these factors are beyond Synovus’ ability to control or predict. These factors include, but are not limited to:
  (1)   competitive pressures arising from aggressive competition from other financial service providers;
 
  (2)   further deteriorations in credit quality, particularly in residential construction and commercial development real estate loans, may continue to result in increased non-performing assets and credit losses, which will adversely impact our earnings and capital;
 
  (3)   declining values of residential and commercial real estate may result in further write-downs of assets and realized losses on disposition of non-performing assets, which may increase our credit losses and negatively affect our financial results;
 
  (4)   continuing weakness in the residential real estate environment may negatively impact our ability to liquidate non-performing assets;
 
  (5)   the impact on our borrowing costs, capital cost and our liquidity due to adverse changes in our credit ratings;
 
  (6)   inadequacy of our allowance for loan losses, or the risk that the allowance may prove to be inadequate or may be negatively affected by credit risk exposures;
 
  (7)   our ability to manage fluctuations in the value of our assets and liabilities to maintain sufficient capital and liquidity to support our operations;
 
  (8)   the concentration of our nonperforming assets in certain geographic regions and with affiliated borrowing groups;

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  (9)   the risk of additional future losses if the proceeds we receive upon the liquidation of non-performing assets are less than the fair value of such assets;
 
  (10)   changes in the interest rate environment which may increase funding costs or reduce earning assets yields, thus reducing margins;
 
  (11)   restrictions or limitations on access to funds from subsidiaries, thereby restricting our ability to make payments on our obligations or dividend payments;
 
  (12)   the availability and cost of capital and liquidity;
 
  (13)   changes in accounting standards or applications and determinations made thereunder;
 
  (14)   slower than anticipated rates of growth in non-interest income and increased non-interest expense;
 
  (15)   changes in the cost and availability of funding due to changes in the deposit market and credit market, or the way in which Synovus is perceived in such markets, including a reduction in our debt ratings;
 
  (16)   the impact of future losses on our deferred tax assets and the impact on our financial results of changes in the valuation allowance for our deferred tax assets in future periods;
 
  (17)   the strength of the U.S. economy in general and the strength of the local economies and financial markets in which operations are conducted may be different than expected;
 
  (18)   the effects of and changes in trade, monetary and fiscal policies, and laws, including interest rate policies of the Federal Reserve Board;
 
  (19)   inflation, interest rate, market and monetary fluctuations;
 
  (20)   the impact of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (EESA), the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), the Financial Stability Plan and other recent and proposed changes in governmental policy, laws and regulations, including proposed and recently enacted changes in the regulation of banks and financial institutions, or the interpretation or application thereof, including restrictions, increased capital requirements, limitations and/or penalties arising from banking, securities and insurance laws, regulations and examinations;
 
  (21)   the impact on our financial results, reputation and business if we are unable to comply with all applicable federal and state regulations;
 
  (22)   the costs and effects of litigation, investigations or similar matters, or adverse facts and developments related thereto, including, without limitation, the pending litigation with CompuCredit Corporation relating to CB&T’s Affinity Agreement with CompuCredit and the pending securities class action litigation filed against Synovus;
 
  (23)   the volatility of our stock price;
 
  (24)   the actual results achieved by our implementation of Project Optimus, and the risk that we may not achieve the anticipated cost savings and revenue increases from this initiative;
 
  (25)   the impact on the valuation of our investments due to market volatility or counterparty payment risk; and
 
  (26)   other factors and other information contained in this document and in other reports and filings that Synovus makes with the SEC under the Exchange Act.
All written or oral forward-looking statements that are made by or are attributable to Synovus are expressly qualified by this cautionary notice. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, since those statements speak only as of the date on which the statements are made. Synovus undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which the statement is made to reflect the occurrence of new information or unanticipated events, except as may otherwise be required by law.

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Executive Summary
The following financial review provides a discussion of Synovus’ financial condition, changes in financial condition, and results of operations for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009.
Industry Overview
The first six months of 2009 continue to reflect the adverse impact of severe macro economic conditions which have negatively impacted liquidity and credit quality. Concerns regarding increased credit losses from the weakening economy have negatively affected capital and earnings of most financial institutions. Financial institutions continue to experience significant declines in the value of collateral for real estate loans and heightened credit losses, which have resulted in record levels of non-performing assets, charge-offs and foreclosures.
Liquidity in the debt markets remains low in spite of efforts by the U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury) and the Federal Reserve Bank (Federal Reserve) to inject capital into financial institutions. The federal funds rate set by the Federal Reserve has remained at 0.25% since December 2008, following a decline from 4.25% to 0.25% during 2008 through a series of seven rate reductions.
Treasury, the FDIC and other governmental agencies continue to enact rules and regulations to implement the EESA, the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP), the Financial Stability Plan, the ARRA and related economic recovery programs, many of which contain limitations on the ability of financial institutions to take certain actions or to engage in certain activities if the financial institution is a participant in the TARP Capital Purchase Program or related programs. Future regulations, or enforcement of the terms of programs already in place, may require financial institutions to raise additional capital and result in the conversion of preferred equity issued under TARP or other programs to common equity. There can be no assurance as to the actual impact of the EESA, the FDIC programs or any other governmental program on the financial markets.
On May 7, 2009, the Federal Reserve Board announced the results of the Supervisory Capital Assessment Program (“SCAP”), commonly referred to as the “stress test,” of the capital needs through the end of 2010 of the nineteen largest U.S. bank holding companies. As a result of the SCAP, a number of the bank holding companies reviewed as part of the SCAP were required, or voluntarily chose, to raise additional Tier 1 capital, particularly common equity. Following the release of the SCAP results, bank holding companies that were not part of the SCAP, such as Synovus, have faced significant speculation as to the results of the stress tests performed on the largest nineteen financial institutions and the hypothetical results of the stress test methodology if it was applied to other financial institutions, including regional banks smaller in size. See “Capital Resources and Liquidity”.
The severe economic conditions are expected to continue through 2009 and beyond. Financial institutions likely will continue to experience heightened credit losses and higher levels of non-performing assets, charge-offs and foreclosures. In light of these conditions, financial institutions also face heightened levels of scrutiny from federal and state regulators. These factors negatively influenced, and likely will continue to negatively influence, earning asset yields at a time when the market for deposits is intensely competitive. As a result, financial institutions experienced, and are expected to continue to experience, pressure on credit costs, loan yields, deposit and other borrowing costs, liquidity, and capital.

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About Our Business
Synovus is a financial services holding company based in Columbus, Georgia, with approximately $34 billion in assets. Synovus provides integrated financial services including banking, financial management, insurance, mortgage, and leasing services through 30 wholly-owned subsidiary banks and other Synovus offices in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida. At June 30, 2009, our banks ranged in size from $261.1 million to $6.63 billion in total assets.
Our Key Financial Performance Indicators
In terms of how we measure success in our business, the following are our key financial performance indicators:
    Capital Strength
 
    Liquidity
 
    Credit Quality
 
    Net Interest Margin
 
    Loan Growth
 
    Core Deposit Growth
 
    Fee Income Growth
 
    Expense Management
The net loss for the quarter was $586.9 million, or $1.82 per common share. The results for the second quarter were impacted by a non-cash charge of $173.4 million to record an increase in the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets. Total credit costs for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 were $807.8 million, including provision for losses on loans of $631.5 million and costs related to foreclosed real estate of $172.4 million. The credit costs were largely driven by a significant increase in the allowance for loan losses as well as the impact of losses on liquidations of non-performing assets. Non-performing assets decreased $15.0 million from the first quarter of 2009 as dispositions of non-performing assets reached $404 million in the second quarter.
Synovus’ operating results excluding credit costs showed improvement in spite of the challenging economic environment. Synovus’ pre-tax, pre-credit costs income (which excludes provision for losses on loans, credit costs, and certain other items, as shown in more detail on page 75 of this report) was $144.8 million, up $15.6 million over the first quarter of 2009. The net interest margin increased to 3.23%, or eighteen basis points, compared to the first quarter of 2009.

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A summary of Synovus’ financial performance for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, is set forth in the table below.
Financial Performance Summary
                                                 
    Six Months Ended           Three Months Ended    
    June 30,           June 30,    
(in thousands, except per share data)   2009   2008   Change   2009   2008   Change
Pre-tax, pre-credit costs income (1)
  $ 274,101       346,515       (20.9 %)   $ 144,835       176,092       (17.8 %)
Net Income (loss)
    (720,981 )     94,790     nm     (584,253 )     12,237     nm
Net income (loss) available to common shareholders
    (752,018 )     93,093     nm     (601,155 )     (12,099 )   nm
Diluted earnings (loss) per share (EPS)
    (2.28 )     0.28     nm     (1.82 )     0.04     nm
Provision for losses on loans
    921,963       184,665       399.3 %     631,526       93,616     574.6 %
 
                                               
Non-interest income
    196,588       247,675       (20.6 %)     107,838       107,698       0.1 %
 
                                               
Non-interest expense
    659,674       467,338       41.2 %     396,316       265,964       49.0 %
Fundamental non-interest
expense (1)(2)
    381,749       405,446       (5.8 %)     190,696       200,284       (4.8 %)
 
                                               
Other credit costs (3)
    230,585       38,829     nm     176,308       29,686     nm
                                         
                    Sequential        
    June 30,   March 31,   Quarter   June 30,   Year Over Year
    2009   2009   Change (4)   2008   Change
Loans, net of unearned income
  $ 27,585,741       27,730,272       (2.1 %)   $ 27,445,891       0.5 %
Non-performing assets
    1,736,173       1,751,185       (3.4 %)     830,264       109.1 %
Core deposits (1)
    22,429,172       22,689,145       (4.6 %)     21,441,050       4.6 %
 
                                       
Net interest margin
    3.23 %     3.05 %   18 bp     3.57 %   (34) bp
Nonperforming assets ratio
    6.24       6.25     (1) bp     3.00     324 bp
Loans past due over 90 days and still accruing interest
    0.11       0.11     0 bp     0.14     (3) bp
Total past due loans and still accruing interest
    1.20       2.12     (92) bp     1.33     (13) bp
Net charge-off ratio (quarter)
    5.09       3.53     156 bp     1.04     405 bp
Net charge-off ratio (ytd)
    4.31       3.53     78 bp     1.18     313 bp
 
                                       
Tier 1 capital
  $ 2,862,225       3,454,987       (68.8 %)   $ 2,891,831       (1.0 %)
Tier 1 common equity
    1,928,370       2,523,119       (95.0 %)     2,881,634       (33.2 %)
Total risk-based capital
    3,836,405       4,440,573       (54.5 %)     3,987,595       (3.8 %)
Tier 1 capital ratio
    9.53 %     11.06 %   (153) bp     8.91 %   62 bp
Tier 1 common equity ratio
    6.42       8.08     (166) bp     8.88     (246) bp
Total risk-based capital ratio
    12.77       14.22     (145) bp     12.29     48 bp
Tangible common equity to tangible assets (1)
    6.05       7.80     (175) bp     8.71     (266) bp
Tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets (1)
    6.90       8.61     (171) bp     9.05     (215) bp
 
(1)   See reconciliation of non-GAAP Financial Measures on page 75.
 
(2)   Fundamental non-interest expense is comprised of total non-interest expense less other credit costs, FDIC insurance expense, restructuring charges, Visa litigation recovery, and goodwill impairment expense.
 
(3)   Other credit costs are comprised primarily of foreclosed real estate costs, reserve for unfunded commitments, and charges related to other loans held for sale.
 
(4)   Ratios are annualized
 
nm = non meaningful

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Critical Accounting Policies
The accounting and financial reporting policies of Synovus conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and to general practices within the banking and financial services industries. Synovus has identified certain of its accounting policies as “critical accounting policies.” In determining which accounting policies are critical in nature, Synovus has identified the policies that require significant judgment or involve complex estimates. The application of these policies has a significant impact on Synovus’ financial statements. Synovus’ financial results could differ significantly if different judgments or estimates are applied in the application of these policies.
Allowance for Loan Losses
Notes 1 and 8 to Synovus’ consolidated financial statements in Synovus’ 2008 annual report on Form 10-K contain a discussion of the allowance for loan losses. The allowance for loan losses at June 30, 2009 was $918.7 million.
The allowance for loan losses is a significant estimate and is regularly evaluated by Synovus for adequacy. The allowance for loan losses is determined based on an analysis which assesses the probable loss within the loan portfolio. The allowance for loan losses consists of two components: the allocated and unallocated allowances. Both components of the allowance are available to cover inherent losses in the portfolio. Significant judgments or estimates made in the determination of the allowance for loan losses consist of the risk ratings for loans in the commercial loan portfolio, the valuation of the collateral for loans that are classified as impaired loans, the qualitative loss factors, and management’s plan for disposition of non-performing loans. In determining an adequate allowance for loan losses, management makes numerous assumptions, estimates and assessments. The use of different estimates or assumptions could produce different provisions for losses on loans.
As a part of our problem asset disposition strategy, management intends to identify certain non-performing loans for disposition through liquidation or other sales. While all of the non-performing loans have not yet been specifically identified, these types of sales are expected to result in significantly lower proceeds than traditional sales, which could result in additional losses. The excess of carrying value over estimated net proceeds from sale is charged-off against the allowance for loan losses when management has determined the loans or groups of loans for disposition through these liquidation strategies.
Commercial Loans — Risk Ratings and Loss Factors
Commercial loans are assigned a risk rating on a nine point scale. For commercial loans that are not considered impaired, the allocated allowance for loan losses is determined based upon the expected loss percentage factors that correspond to each risk rating.
The risk ratings are based on the borrowers’ credit risk profile, considering factors such as debt service history and capacity, inherent risk in the credit (e.g., based on industry type and source of repayment), and collateral position. Ratings 7 through 9 are modeled after the bank regulatory classifications of substandard, doubtful, and loss. Expected loss percentage factors are based on the probable loss including qualitative factors. The probable loss considers the probability of default, the loss given default, and certain qualitative factors as determined by loan category and risk rating. Through March 31, 2009, the probability of default loss factors were based on industry data. Beginning April 1, 2009, the probability of default loss factors are based on internal default experience because this was the first reporting period when sufficient internal default data became available. This change resulted in a net increase in the allocated allowance for loan losses for the commercial portfolio of approximately $30 million during the three months ended June 30, 2009. The loss given default factors are based on industry data, which will continue to be

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used until sufficient internal data becomes available. The qualitative factors consider credit concentrations, recent levels and trends in delinquencies and nonaccrual loans, and growth in the loan portfolio. The occurrence of certain events could result in changes to the expected loss factors. Accordingly, these expected loss factors are reviewed periodically and modified as necessary.
Each loan is assigned a risk rating during the approval process. This process begins with a rating recommendation from the loan officer responsible for originating the loan. The rating recommendation is subject to approvals from other members of management and/or loan committees depending on the size and type of credit. Ratings are re-evaluated on a quarterly basis. Additionally, an independent Parent Company credit review function evaluates each bank’s risk rating process at least every six months.
Impaired Loans
Management considers a loan to be impaired when the ultimate collectibility of all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement are in doubt. A majority of our impaired loans are collateral-dependent. The net carrying amount of collateral-dependent impaired loans is equal to the lower of the loans’ principal balance or the fair value of the collateral (less estimated costs to sell) not only at the date at which impairment is initially recognized, but also at each subsequent reporting period. Accordingly, our policy requires that we update the fair value of the collateral securing collateral-dependent impaired loans each calendar quarter. Impaired loans, not including impaired loans held for sale, had a net carrying value of $1.23 billion at June 30, 2009. Most of these loans are secured by real estate, with the majority classified as collateral-dependent loans. The fair value of the real estate securing these loans is generally determined based upon appraisals performed by a certified or licensed appraiser. Management also considers other factors or recent developments, such as selling costs and anticipated sales values considering management’s plans for disposition, which could result in adjustments to the collateral value estimates indicated in the appraisals.
Estimated losses on collateral-dependent impaired loans are typically charged-off. At June 30, 2009, $971.9 million, or 78.8%, of impaired loans consisted of collateral-dependent impaired loans for which Synovus has recognized charge-offs of approximately $284.0 million. These loans are recorded at the lower of cost or estimated fair value of the underlying collateral net of selling costs. However, if a collateral-dependent loan is placed on impaired status at or near the end of a calendar quarter, management records an allowance for loan losses based on the loan’s risk rating while an updated appraisal is being obtained. The estimated losses on these loans are recorded as a charge-off during the following quarter after the receipt of a current appraisal or fair value estimate based on current market conditions, including absorption rates. Management does not expect a material difference between the current allocated allowance on these loans and the actual charge-off.
As part of our problem asset disposition strategy, management intends to identify certain impaired loans for liquidation through loan sales in future quarters. While the specific loans have not yet been identified, these liquidations are expected to result in significantly lower proceeds than the fair value of these loans, which is included as a component of our allowance for loan losses.
During the second quarter of 2009, Synovus was able to significantly accelerate the pace of asset dispositions. This experience provided management a basis to estimate the loan sales (consisting primarily of non-performing loans) that will be completed over the next two quarters. Based on this, the provision expense for the second quarter of 2009 includes management’s estimate of the losses associated with these asset dispositions that are both probable and can be reasonably estimated as of June 30, 2009.
Loans or pools of loans are transferred to the other loans held for sale portfolio when the intent to hold the loans has changed due to portfolio management or risk mitigation strategies and when there is a plan to sell the loans within a reasonable period of time. The value of the loans or pools of loans is primarily determined by analyzing the underlying collateral of the loan and the external market prices of similar assets. At the time of transfer, if the estimated net

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realizable value is less than the cost, the difference is recorded as a charge-off against the allowance for loan losses.
Retail Loans — Loss Factors
The allocated allowance for loan losses for retail loans is generally determined by segregating the retail loan portfolio into pools of homogeneous loan categories. Expected loss factors applied to these pools are based on the probable loss including qualitative factors. The probable loss considers the probability of default, the loss given default, and certain qualitative factors as determined by loan category and risk rating. The probability of default loss factors are based on internal default experience. The loss given default factors are based on industry data because sufficient internal data is not yet available. The qualitative factors consider credit concentrations, recent levels and trends in delinquencies and nonaccrual loans, and growth in the loan portfolio. The occurrence of certain events could result in changes to the loss factors. Accordingly, these loss factors are reviewed periodically and modified as necessary.
Unallocated Component
The unallocated component of the allowance for loan losses is considered necessary to provide for certain environmental and economic factors that affect the probable loss inherent in the entire loan portfolio. Unallocated loss factors included in the determination of the unallocated allowance are economic factors, changes in the experience, ability, and depth of lending management and staff, and changes in lending policies and procedures, including underwriting standards. Certain macro- economic factors and changes in business conditions and developments could have a material impact on the collectibility of the overall portfolio. As an example, a rapidly rising interest rate environment could have a material impact on certain borrowers’ ability to pay. The unallocated component is meant to cover such risks.
Other Real Estate
Other real estate (ORE), consisting of properties obtained through foreclosure or through an in-substance foreclosure in satisfaction of loans, is reported at the lower of cost or fair value, determined on the basis of current appraisals, comparable sales, and other estimates of value obtained principally from independent sources, adjusted for estimated selling costs. Management also considers other factors, or recent developments, such as management’s plans for disposition, which could result in adjustments to the value estimates indicated in the appraisals. At the time of foreclosure or initial possession of collateral, any excess of the loan balance over the fair value of the real estate held as collateral is treated as a charge against the allowance for loan losses. Gains or losses on sale and any subsequent adjustments to the value are recorded as a component of foreclosed real estate expense. Significant judgments and complex estimates are required in estimating the fair value of other real estate, and the period of time within which such estimates can be considered current is significantly shortened during periods of market volatility, as experienced during 2008 and 2009. In response to market conditions and other economic factors, management may utilize liquidation sales as part of its problem asset disposition strategy. As a result of the significant judgments required in estimating fair value and the variables involved in different methods of disposition, the net proceeds realized from sales transactions could differ significantly from appraisals, comparable sales, and other estimates used to determine the fair value of other real estate.
Additionally, as part of our problem asset disposition strategy, management intends to identify certain other real estate (ORE) properties for liquidation through auctions or bulk sales in future

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quarters. While all of the properties have not yet been specifically identified, these liquidations are expected to result in significantly lower proceeds than traditional sales, which could result in additional losses. ORE properties are written down to the estimated liquidation value when management has determined the properties or groups of properties for disposition through these liquidation strategies.
Private Equity Investments
Private equity investments are recorded at fair value on the balance sheet with realized and unrealized gains and losses included in non-interest income in the results of operations in accordance with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Audit and Accounting Guide for Investment Companies. For private equity investments, Synovus uses information provided by the fund managers in the initial determination of estimated fair value. Valuation factors such as recent or proposed purchase or sale of debt or equity, pricing by other dealers in similar securities, size of position held, liquidity of the market, comparable market multiples, and changes in economic conditions affecting the issuer are used in the final determination of estimated fair value. The valuation of private equity investments requires significant management judgment due to the absence of quoted market prices, inherent lack of liquidity and the long-term nature of such investments. As a result, the net proceeds realized from transactions involving these assets could differ significantly from estimated fair value.
Income Taxes
Synovus’ estimated income tax provision is based on the amount expected to be owed to taxing jurisdictions in which it conducts business. Management evaluates the reasonableness of the effective tax rate based on current estimates of the amount and components of income, tax credits and statutory rates for the entire year. This analysis requires that management closely monitor income tax developments on both the state and federal level in order to evaluate the effect they may have on Synovus’ overall tax position.
During the three months ended June 30, 2009, Synovus performed its quarterly assessment of net deferred tax assets. Under SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (“SFAS No. 109”), companies are required to assess whether a valuation allowance should be established against their deferred tax assets based on the consideration of all available evidence using a “more likely than not” standard. In making such judgments, significant weight is given to evidence that can be objectively verified. As a result of the increased credit losses, Synovus is now in a three-year cumulative pre-tax loss position as of June 30, 2009. A cumulative loss position is considered significant negative evidence in assessing the realizability of a deferred tax asset which is difficult to overcome. Synovus did not consider future taxable income in determining the realizability of its deferred tax assets. Synovus’ estimate of the realization of its deferred tax assets was solely based on future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, taxable income in prior carry back years, and tax planning strategies. This resulted in an increase to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance of approximately $173 million during the three months ended June 30, 2009. The increase in the valuation allowance was recorded through an adjustment to the estimated annual effective tax rate. Based on current projections, Synovus estimates that the effective tax rate for the second half of 2009 will remain at approximately the same level as the actual effective tax rate for the first half of 2009 (18.7%). While there are many factors that could impact the actual effective tax rate, a significant factor is management’s projection of the pre-tax loss for the year. If the projected pre-tax losses vary significantly from current estimates, the actual effective tax rate could vary significantly.

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See Notes 1 and 22 to Synovus’ consolidated financial statements in Synovus’ 2008 annual report on Form 10-K and Note 14 of this report for a discussion of income taxes.
Asset Impairment
Long-Lived Assets and Other Intangibles
Synovus reviews long-lived assets, such as property and equipment and other intangibles subject to amortization, including core deposit premiums and customer relationships, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the actual cash flows are not consistent with Synovus’ estimates, an impairment charge may result.
Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock
On December 19, 2008, Synovus issued to the Treasury 967,870 shares of Synovus’ Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A, without par value (the Series A Preferred Stock), having a liquidation amount per share equal to $1,000, for a total price of $967,870,000. The Series A Preferred Stock pays cumulative dividends at a rate of 5% per year for the first five years and thereafter at a rate of 9% per year. Synovus may not redeem the Series A Preferred Stock during the first three years except with the proceeds from a qualified equity offering of not less than $241,967,500. After February 15, 2012, Synovus may, with the consent of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, redeem, in whole or in part, the Series A Preferred Stock at the liquidation amount per share plus accrued and unpaid dividends. The Series A Preferred Stock is generally non-voting. Prior to December 19, 2011, unless Synovus has redeemed the Series A Preferred Stock or the Treasury has transferred the Series A Preferred Stock to a third party, the consent of the Treasury will be required for Synovus to (1) declare or pay any dividend or make any distribution on common stock, par value $1.00 per share, other than regular quarterly cash dividends of not more than $0.06 per share, or (2) redeem, repurchase or acquire Synovus common stock or other equity or capital securities, other than in connection with benefit plans consistent with past practice. A consequence of the Series A Preferred Stock purchase includes certain restrictions on executive compensation that could limit the tax deductibility of compensation that Synovus pays to executive management.
As part of its purchase of the Series A Preferred Stock, Synovus issued the Treasury a warrant to purchase up to 15,510,737 shares of Synovus common stock (the Warrant) at an initial per share exercise price of $9.36. The Warrant provides for the adjustment of the exercise price and the number of shares of Synovus common stock issuable upon exercise pursuant to customary anti-dilution provisions, such as upon stock splits or distributions of securities or other assets to holders of our common stock, and upon certain issuances of our common stock at or below a specified price relative to the initial exercise price. The Warrant expires on December 19, 2018. If, on or prior to December 31, 2009, Synovus receives aggregate gross cash proceeds of not less than $967,870,000 from “qualified equity offerings” announced after October 13, 2008, the number of shares of common stock issuable pursuant to the Treasury’s exercise of the Warrant will be reduced by one-half of the original number of shares, taking into account all adjustments, underlying the Warrant. Pursuant to the Securities Purchase Agreement, the Treasury has agreed not to exercise voting power with respect to any shares of common stock issued upon exercise of the Warrant.

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The offer and sale of the Series A Preferred Stock and the Warrant were effected without registration under the Securities Act in reliance on the exemption from registration under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act. Synovus has allocated the total proceeds received from the United States Department of the Treasury based on the relative fair values of the Series A Preferred Stock and the Warrants. This allocation resulted in the preferred shares and the Warrants being initially recorded at amounts that are less than their respective fair values at the issuance date.
The $48.5 million discount on the Series A Preferred Stock is being accreted using a constant effective yield over the five-year period preceding the 9 % perpetual dividend. Synovus records increases in the carrying amount of the preferred shares resulting from accretion of the discount by charges against retained earnings.
Restructuring Charges
Restructuring charges represent severance and other project related costs incurred in conjunction with the implementation of Project Optimus (an initiative focused on operating efficiency gains and enhanced revenue growth) as well as severance costs associated with additional job function and position eliminations identified during the first quarter of 2009 as part of a continued effort to manage a leaner organization. Synovus expects to incur in total approximately $25.0 million in restructuring costs related to these efficiency efforts.
Project Optimus, launched in April 2008, is a team member-driven effort to create an enhanced banking experience for our customers and a more efficient organization that delivers greater value for Synovus shareholders. As a result of this process, Synovus announced in the third quarter of 2008 that it expects to achieve $75 million in annual run rate pre-tax earnings benefit by late 2010 through efficiency gains and new revenue growth initiatives. Revenue growth is expected primarily through new sales initiatives, improved product offerings and improved pricing strategies for consumer and commercial assets and liabilities. Cost savings are expected to be generated primarily through increased process efficiencies and streamlining of support functions. Synovus expects to incur restructuring charges of approximately $19.5 million in conjunction with the project, including approximately $8.4 million in severance charges. In addition, Synovus expects to incur approximately $5.5 million in restructuring charges related to the position eliminations identified during the first quarter of 2009. During the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, Synovus recognized $6.8 million and $397 thousand in total restructuring (severance) charges. To date, $22.9 million in restructuring charges have been recognized related to these efficiency efforts including $11.7 million in severance charges.
Visa Initial Public Offering and Litigation Expense
Visa, Inc. completed an initial public offering (the Visa IPO) in March 2008. Visa used a portion of the proceeds from the Visa IPO to establish a $3.0 billion escrow for settlement of covered litigation and used substantially all of the remaining portion to redeem class B and class C shares held by Visa issuing members. During the three months ended March 31, 2008, Synovus recognized a pre-tax gain of $38.5 million on redemption proceeds received from Visa, Inc. and reduced the $36.8 million litigation accrual recognized in the second half of 2007 by $17.4 million for its membership proportion of the $3.0 billion escrow funded by Visa, Inc. During September 2008, Visa announced the settlement of its Discover litigation for approximately $1.74 billion. Synovus increased its litigation accrual by $6.3 million for its membership proportion of the incremental amount of the final Discover settlement over the previously estimated amount for the Discover settlement. During December 2008, Visa deposited $1.10

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billion into the litigation escrow, effectively representing a repurchase of Class A common stock on an as-converted basis. Synovus reduced its litigation accrual by $6.4 million for its membership proportion of the amount deposited to the litigation escrow.
At June 30, 2009, Synovus’ accrual for the aggregate amount of Visa’s covered litigation was $19.3 million. For the six months ended June 30, 2008, the redemption of shares and changes to the accrued liability for Visa litigation resulted in a gain of $34.1 million, net of tax, or $0.10 per diluted share.
On June 30, 2009, Visa announced its plan to deposit $700 million to the litigation escrow and announced on July 16, 2009 that the deposit had been completed. Synovus will assess its indemnification obligations with respect to Visa’s covered litigation during the three months ended September 30, 2009, giving consideration to Visa’s deposit to the litigation escrow.
Balance Sheet
During the first six months of 2009, total assets decreased $1.44 billion. $435.9 million of the decrease is due to a decline in the balance of funds due from the Federal Reserve Bank. In addition, investment securities available for sale decreased by $209.8 million, federal funds sold and securities purchased under resale agreements decreased $217.4 million, and loans, net of unearned income and allowance for loan losses, decreased $654.8 million.
Fair Value Accounting
SFAS No. 157 establishes a framework for measuring fair value in accordance with U.S. GAAP, clarifies the definition of fair value within that framework, and expands disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. SFAS No. 159 permits entities to make an irrevocable election, at specified election dates, to measure eligible financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. Fair value is used on a recurring basis for certain assets and liabilities in which fair value is the primary basis of accounting. Fair value is used on a non-recurring basis for collateral-dependent impaired loans and other real estate. Examples of recurring use of fair value include trading account assets, mortgage loans held for sale, investment securities available for sale, private equity investments, derivative instruments, and trading account liabilities. The extent to which fair value is used on a recurring basis was expanded upon the adoption of SFAS No. 159, effective on January 1, 2008. At June 30, 2009, approximately $5.41 billion, or 15.8%, compared to $5.21 billion, or 14.6% at December 31, 2008, of total assets were recorded at fair value, which includes items measured on a recurring and non-recurring basis.
Fair value is the price that could be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Fair value determination in accordance with SFAS No. 157 requires that a number of significant judgments be made. The standard also establishes a three-level hierarchy for fair value measurements based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability as of the measurement date. Synovus has an established and well-documented process for determining fair values and fair value hierarchy classifications. Fair value is based upon quoted market prices, where available (Level 1). Where prices for identical assets and liabilities are not available, SFAS No. 157 requires that similar assets and liabilities are identified (Level 2). If observable market prices are unavailable or impracticable to obtain, or similar assets cannot be identified, then fair value is estimated using internally-developed valuation modeling techniques such as discounted cash flow analyses that primarily use as inputs market-based or independently sourced market parameters (Level 3). These modeling techniques incorporate assessments regarding assumptions that market

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participants would use in pricing the asset or the liability. The assessments with respect to assumptions that market participants would make are inherently difficult to determine and use of different assumptions could result in material changes to these fair value measurements.
The following tables summarize the assets accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the valuation hierarchy at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008.
                                         
    June 30, 2009  
                                    Total  
                                    Assets  
                                    Held at  
                                    Fair Value  
                                    On the  
                                    Balance  
(dollars in millions)   Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total     Sheet  
Trading account assets
    4 %     96             100     $ 20.7  
Mortgage loans held for sale
            100             100       312.6  
Investment securities available for sale:
                                       
U.S. Treasury securities
    100                   100       1.1  
Other U.S. Government agency securities
          100             100       1,513.4  
Government agency issued mortgage-backed securities
          100             100       1,816.4  
Government agency issued collateralized mortgage obligations
          100             100       103.6  
State and municipal securities
          100             100       106.4  
Equity securities
    25             75       100       11.2  
Other investments
                100       100       8.1  
 
                             
Total investment securities available for sale
          99       1       100       3,560.2  
Private equity investments
                100       100       135.7  
Derivative assets
          99       1       100       159.9  
 
                             
Total
    100       100       100       100     $ 4,189.1  
 
                             
 
                                       
Level 3 assets as a percentage of total assets measured at fair value
                                    3.65 %
                                         
    December 31, 2008  
                                    Total  
                                    Assets  
                                    Held at  
                                    Fair Value  
                                    On the  
                                    Balance  
(dollars in millions)   Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total     Sheet  
Trading account assets
    3 %     97             100     $ 24.5  
Mortgage loans held for sale
          100             100       133.6  
Investment securities available for sale:
                                       
U.S. Treasury securities
    100                   100       4.6  
Other U.S. Government agency securities
          100             100       1,552.6  
Government agency issued mortgage-backed securities
          100             100       1,956.0  
Government agency issued collateralized mortgage obligations
          100             100       116.4  
State and municipal securities
          100             100       123.3  
Equity securities
    34             66       100       8.2  
Other investments
                100       100       8.9  
 
                             
Total investment securities available for sale
          99       1       100       3,770.0  
Private equity investments
                100       100       123.5  
Derivative assets
          99       1       100       307.8  
 
                             
Total
    100       100       100       100     $ 4,359.4  
 
                             
 
                                       
Level 3 assets as a percentage of total assets measured at fair value
                                    3.22 %

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The following tables summarize the liabilities accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the valuation hierarchy at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008.
                                         
    June 30, 2009  
                                    Total  
                                    Liabilities  
                                    Held at  
                                    Fair Value  
                                    On the  
                                    Balance  
(dollars in millions)   Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total     Sheet  
Trading account liabilities
    %     100             100     $ 13.3  
Derivative liabilities
          100             100       132.4  
 
                             
Total
          100             100     $ 145.7  
 
                             
 
                                       
Level 3 liabilities as a percentage of total assets measured at fair value
                                    0 %
                                         
    December 31, 2008  
                                    Total  
                                    Liabilities  
                                    Held at  
                                    Fair Value  
                                    On the  
                                    Balance  
(dollars in millions)   Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total     Sheet  
Brokered certificates of deposit
    %     100             100     $ 75.9  
Trading account liabilities
          100             100       17.3  
Derivative liabilities
          100             100       206.5  
 
                             
Total
          100             100     $ 299.7  
 
                             
 
                                       
Level 3 liabilities as a percentage of total assets measured at fair value
                                    0 %
In estimating the fair values for investment securities and most derivative financial instruments, independent, third-party market prices are the best evidence of exit price and, where available, Synovus bases estimates on such prices. If such third-party market prices are not available on the exact securities that Synovus owns, fair values are based on the market prices of similar instruments, third-party broker quotes, or are estimated using industry-standard or proprietary models whose inputs may be unobservable. When market observable data is not available, the valuation of financial instruments becomes more subjective and involves substantial judgment. The need to use unobservable inputs generally results from the lack of market liquidity for certain types of loans and securities, which results in diminished observability of both actual trades and assumptions that would otherwise be available to value these instruments. When fair values are estimated based on internal models, relevant market indices that correlate to the underlying collateral are considered, along with assumptions such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, default rates, and discount rates.
The valuation for mortgage loans held for sale (MLHFS) is based upon forward settlement of a pool of loans of identical coupon, maturity, product, and credit attributes. The model is continuously updated with available market and historical data. The valuation methodology of nonpublic private equity investments requires significant management judgment due to the absence of quoted market prices, inherent lack of liquidity, and the long-term nature of such assets. Private equity investments are valued initially based upon transaction price. Thereafter, Synovus uses information provided by the fund managers in the initial determination of estimated fair value. Valuation factors such as recent or proposed purchase or sale of debt or equity of the issuer, pricing by other dealers in similar securities, size of position held, liquidity

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of the market and changes in economic conditions affecting the issuer are used in the final determination of estimated fair value.
Valuation methodologies are reviewed each quarter to ensure that fair value estimates are appropriate. Any changes to the valuation methodologies are reviewed by management to confirm the changes are justified. As markets and products develop and the pricing for certain products becomes more or less transparent, Synovus continues to refine its valuation methodologies. For a detailed discussion of valuation methodologies, refer to Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements (unaudited) as of and for the three months ended June 30, 2009.
Trading Account Assets
The trading account assets portfolio is substantially comprised of mortgage-backed securities which are bought and held principally for sale and delivery to correspondent and retail customers of Synovus. Trading account assets are reported on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses included in other non-interest income on the consolidated statements of income. Synovus recognized a net gain on trading account assets of $2.6 million and $1.9 million for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, compared to a net loss of $239 thousand and a net gain of $519 thousand for the same periods in the prior year.
Other Loans Held for Sale
Loans or pools of loans are transferred to the other loans held for sale portfolio when the intent to hold the loans has changed due to portfolio management or risk mitigation strategies and when there is a plan to sell the loans within a reasonable period of time. The value of the loans or pools of loans is primarily determined by analyzing the underlying collateral of the loan and the external market prices of similar assets. At the time of transfer, if the estimated net realizable value is less than the carrying amount, the difference is recorded as a charge-off against the allowance for loan losses. Decreases in estimated net realizable value subsequent to the transfer as well as losses (gains) from sale of these loans are recognized as a component of non-interest expense.
During the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, Synovus transferred loans with a cost basis totaling $97.5 million and $56.7 million to the other loans held for sale portfolio, respectively. Synovus recognized charge-offs on these loans totaling $50.2 million and $30.7 million for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, respectively. These charge-offs, which resulted in a new cost basis of $47.3 million and $26.0 million for the loans transferred during the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, were based on the estimated sales price of the loans at the time of transfer. Subsequent to their transfer to the other loans held for sale portfolio, Synovus foreclosed on certain other loans held for sale and transferred foreclosed assets of $1.7 million and $423 thousand to other real estate during the six and three months ended June 30, 2009.

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Other Real Estate
ORE, consisting of properties obtained through foreclosure or in satisfaction of loans, is reported at the lower of cost or fair value, determined on the basis of current appraisals, comparable sales, and other estimates of value obtained principally from independent sources and recent sales history, adjusted for estimated selling costs. Management also considers other factors or recent developments such as changes in absorption rates or market conditions from the time of valuation, and anticipated sales values considering management plans for disposition, which could result in adjustment to the collateral value estimates indicated in the appraisals. At the time of foreclosure, any excess of the loan balance over the fair value of the real estate held as collateral is recorded as a charge against the allowance for loan losses. Gains or losses on sale and any subsequent adjustments to the value are recorded as a component of non-interest expense.
The carrying value of ORE was $211.0 million and $246.1 million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. During the six months ended June 30, 2009, approximately $337.5 million of loans and $1.7 million of other loans held for sale were foreclosed and transferred to other real estate. During the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, Synovus recognized foreclosed real estate expenses of $218.7 million and $21.6 million, respectively.
Foreclosed real estate expenses recognized during the six months ended June 30, 2009 include an $186.4 million charge for the recognition of declines in fair value or reductions in estimated realizable value subsequent to the date of foreclosure, $19.0 million in net losses resulting from sales transactions which have already closed, $9.8 million in carrying costs associated with ORE, and $3.5 million in legal and appraisal fees.
Synovus sold ORE with a carrying value of $243.0 million and $168.7 million during the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, principally through liquidation sales at prices less than fair value. Synovus received proceeds of approximately $164.4 million and $107.4 million and recognized charges for losses of $78.5 million and $61.3 million for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, in connection with these ORE sales. These losses included write-downs to net realizable value which preceded sales transactions, and to a lesser degree, losses on sale for differences between liquidation carrying values and the net proceeds received upon sale.

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Loans
The following table compares the composition of the loan portfolio at June 30, 2009, December 31, 2008, and June 30, 2008.
                                         
           
                    June 30,             June 30,  
                    2009 vs.             2009 vs.  
    Total Loans     Dec. 31,     Total Loans     March 31,  
(dollars in thousands)   June 30,     Dec. 31,     2008     June 30,     2008  
Loan Type   2009     2008     % Change(1)     2008     % Change  
Multi-family
  $ 838,795       589,708       85.2 %   $ 532,345       57.6 %
Hotels
    1,026,163       965,886       12.6       755,125       35.9  
Office building
    1,110,896       1,036,837       14.4       1,003,278       10.7  
Shopping centers
    1,084,080       1,090,807       (1.2 )     980,545       10.6  
Commercial development
    735,834       763,962       (7.4 )     816,482       (9.9 )
Warehouses
    491,944       461,402       13.3       423,465       16.2  
Other investment property
    609,313       614,149       (1.6 )     564,549       7.9  
 
                             
Total Investment Properties
    5,897,025       5,522,751       13.7       5,075,789       16.2  
 
                             
 
                                       
1-4 family construction
    1,224,446       1,611,779       (48.5 )     1,943,120       (37.0 )
1-4 family perm/mini-perm
    1,429,916       1,441,798       (1.7 )     1,387,711       3.0  
Residential development
    1,739,246       2,123,669       (36.5 )     2,241,985       (22.4 )
 
                             
Total 1-4 Family Properties
    4,393,608       5,177,246       (30.5 )     5,572,816       (21.2 )
 
                             
 
                                       
Land Acquisition
    1,619,395       1,620,370       (0.1 )     1,650,334       (1.9 )
 
                             
Total Commercial Real Estate
    11,910,028       12,320,367       (6.7 )     12,298,939       (3.2 )
 
                             
 
                                       
Commercial, financial, and agricultural
    6,545,088       6,747,928       (6.1 )     6,689,206       (2.2 )
Owner-occupied
    4,829,805       4,499,339       14.8       4,281,469       12.8  
 
                             
Total Commercial and Industrial
    11,374,893       11,247,267       2.3       10,970,675       3.7  
 
                             
 
                                       
Home equity
    1,729,528       1,725,075       0.5       1,633,604       5.9  
Consumer mortgages
    1,725,223       1,763,449       (4.4 )     1,725,064     nm  
Credit card
    288,349       295,055       (4.6 )     299,850       (3.8 )
Other retail loans
    586,029       606,347       (6.8 )     558,633       4.9  
 
                             
Total Retail
    4,329,129       4,389,926       (2.8 )     4,217,151       2.7  
 
                             
 
                                       
Unearned Income
    (28,309 )     (37,383 )     (48.9 )     (40,874 )     (30.7 )
 
                             
Total
  $ 27,585,741       27,920,177       (2.4 )%   $ 27,445,891       0.5 %
 
                             
 
(1)   Percentage changes are annualized.

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At June 30, 2009, loans outstanding were $27.59 billion, an increase of $139.9 million, or 0.5%, compared to June 30, 2008. On a sequential quarter basis, total loans outstanding declined by $144.5 million or 2.1% annualized.
At June 30, 2009, Synovus had 28 loan relationships with total commitments of $50 million or more (including amounts funded). The average funded balance of these relationships at June 30, 2009 was approximately $80 million.

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Loans by Type
Loans for investment property grew by $374.3 million, or 13.7% annualized, from December 31, 2008, and increased $821.2 million, or 16.2%, compared to June 30, 2008. The primary loan categories contributing to the growth within the investment property portfolio compared to December 31, 2008 were within the multi-family, hotel and office building categories. The growth in the investment property portfolio during the first six months of 2009 is primarily due to the funding of credit enhancement letters of credit of $221.5 million as well as advances on existing commitments. In addition, the continued impact of a lack of exit capabilities in the market place with commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS), where borrowers have historically secured permanent financing, has increased the duration of the investment property portfolio. The unfunded commitments for investment property loans decreased from approximately $680 million at December 31, 2008 to approximately $364 million at June 30, 2009.
Residential construction and development loans at June 30, 2009 were $2.96 billion, down 41.7% annualized from December 31, 2008, and accounted for 10.7% of total loans outstanding as of June 30, 2009. The following table shows the composition of the residential construction and development portfolio as of June 30, 2009:
                                 
    June 30, 2009  
            % of Total             % of Total  
    Residential     Residential     Residential     Residential  
    Construction     Construction     Construction     Construction  
    and     and     and     and  
    Development     Development     Development     Development  
(dollars in thousands)   Total Loans     Portfolio     NPL     NPL  
Georgia
  $ 1,506,337       50.9 %   $ 386,595       68.0 %
Atlanta
    698,088       23.6       233,099       41.0  
Florida
    355,870       12.0       65,096       11.5  
West Coast of Florida
    261,208       8.8       53,991       9.5  
South Carolina
    708,849       23.9       85,470       15.0  
Tennessee
    92,719       3.1       16,725       2.9  
Alabama
    299,917       10.1       14,433       2.6  
 
                       
Total
  $ 2,963,692       100.0 %   $ 568,319       100.0 %
 
                       
Retail loans at June 30, 2009 totaled $4.33 billion, representing 15.7% of the total loan portfolio. Total retail loans increased by 2.7% compared to June 30, 2008 and declined at an annualized rate of 2.8% since December 31, 2008, led principally by a decline in consumer mortgage, credit card and other consumer loans, and was partially offset by an increase in small business loans. The retail loan portfolio credit scores. There was no material migration within the retail loan portfolio. These loans are primarily extended to customers who have an existing banking relationship with Synovus. The home equity loan portfolio consists primarily of loans with strong credit scores (Average Beacon Score of 743 at June 30, 2009), conservative debt-to-income ratios (Average Debt to Income Ratio of 28.0% at June 30, 2009), and appropriate loan-to-value ratios (Maximum of 89.9%). The utilization rate (total amount outstanding as a percentage of total available lines) of this portfolio was approximately 61% at June 30, 2009, compared to 59% a year ago. The retail loan portfolio credit scores.
Synovus provides credit enhancements in the form of standby letters of credit to assist certain commercial customers in obtaining long-term funding through taxable and tax-exempt bond issues. Under these agreements and under certain conditions, if the bondholder requires the issuer to repurchase the bonds, Synovus is obligated to provide funding under the letter of credit to the issuer to finance the repurchase of the bonds by the issuer. Bondholders (investors) may

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require the issuer to repurchase the bonds on a weekly basis for reasons including general liquidity needs of the investors, general industry/market considerations, as well as changes in Synovus’ credit ratings. Synovus’ maximum exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the counterparty is represented by the contract amount of those instruments. Synovus applies the same credit policies in entering into commitments and conditional obligations as it does for loans. The maturities and yields of the funded letters of credit are comparable to those for new commercial loans. Synovus has issued approximately $1.37 billion in letters of credit related to these bond issuances. At June 30, 2009, substantially all of these standby letters of credit have been funded and are now reported as a component of total loans. The funding of letters of credit does not impact regulatory capital measures such as the risk-based capital ratio since letters of credit are already included in risk-weighted assets at the same risk-weighting as the funded loans. Synovus anticipates its continuing exposure to credit enhancements to remain at lower levels until such time that market conditions, investor liquidity, and Synovus’ credit ratings improve.
Credit Quality
Synovus increased its allowance for loan losses by $276.3 million to $918.7 million, or 3.33% of total loans, during the three months ended June 30, 2009, primarily to provide for probable losses on planned dispositions of non-performing loans throughout the remainder of 2009. Non-performing assets decreased by $15.0 million and total past due loans still accruing interest as a percentage of outstanding loans decreased from 2.12% to 1.20%, or $255.3 million, as compared to March 31, 2009.
During the second quarter of 2009, Synovus completed sales of non-performing assets with carrying values of approximately $404 million as compared to sales of $106 million in the first quarter of 2009. Asset sales for the second quarter were comprised of approximately $300 million of residential real estate and approximately $100 million of investment real estate plus some owner occupied commercial and industrial loans. Approximately half of these asset sales were from the Atlanta market.
Total credit costs for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 were $807.8 million, including provision for losses on loans of $631.5 million and costs related to disposition of ORE of $172.4 million. The credit costs were largely driven by the significant increase in the allowance for loan losses as well as the impact of losses on liquidations of non-performing assets.
The non-performing assets ratio (NPA ratio — non-performing loans plus other loans held for sale and other real estate divided by total loans, other loans held for sale, and other real estate) at June 30, 2009 was 6.24% compared to 6.25% at March 31, 2009, 4.16% at December 31, 2008, and 3.00% at June 30, 2008. At June 30, 2009, approximately 44.3% of total non-performing assets are in the Atlanta and West Florida markets. The Atlanta market represents approximately 24% of Synovus’ total loans in the residential construction and development portfolio and 41% of total nonperforming loans in the residential construction and development portfolio as of June 30, 2009.

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The following table shows the NPA ratio by state as of June 30, 2009, December 31, 2008, and June 30, 2008.
                         
    June 30,   December 31,   June 30,
    2009   2008   2008
Georgia
    7.74 %     5.28       3.76  
Atlanta
    11.93       8.61       7.24  
Florida
    7.54       5.52       4.36  
West Florida
    8.68       6.65       5.24  
South Carolina
    6.39       1.68       1.35  
Tennessee
    4.09       2.62       2.64  
Alabama
    2.30       1.86       0.77  
 
                       
Consolidated
    6.24 %     4.16       3.00  
 
                       
The following table shows total past due loans (and still accruing interest) at June 30, 2009, March 31, 2009, December 31, 2008 and March 31, 2008:
                                 
    June 30,   March 31,   December 31,   June 30,
(dollars in thousands)   2009   2009   2008   2008
Total past due loans (and still accruing interest)
  $ 331,731       587,014       362,538       365,046  
As a percentage of loans outstanding
    1.20 %     2.12       1.30       1.33  
Total past due loans (and still accruing interest) declined $255.3 million from March 31, 2009, and declined $33.3 million from June 30, 2008. The sequential quarter decrease included $198.1 million in loans that migrated to non-performing loans during the quarter, and a reduction in the remaining past due loans (and still accruing interest) of $57.1 million.
Net charge-offs for the three months ended June 30, 2009 were $355.2 million, an increase of $284.6 million compared to the same period a year ago, and included $141.5 million of charge-offs within the Atlanta portfolio and $90.8 million of charge-offs from the South Carolina portfolio. Residential construction and development loans continue to be the largest component of credit losses with Atlanta losses leading that category. Net charge-offs for the six months ended June 30, 2009 were $601.5 million, an increase of $467.1 million compared to the same period in the prior year, and included $241.1 million, or 40 basis points, of charge-offs within the Atlanta portfolio, and $72.8 million, or 12 basis points, in charge-offs from the West Coast of Florida portfolio. The net charge-off ratio for the six months ended June 30, 2009 was 4.31% compared to 0.99% for the same period in 2008 and 1.71% for the year ended December 31, 2008.
The following table shows net charge-offs by loan type for the three months ended June 30 and March 31, 2009:
                                 
    Three Months Ended  
    June 30, 2009     March 31, 2009  
(dollars in thousands)   Net     % of Average Loans     Net     % of Average Loans  
Loan Type   Charge-Offs     for the Quarter     Charge-Offs     for the Quarter  
Investment properties
  $ 47,658       3.2 %   $ 16,087       1.1 %
1 — 4 Family properties
    184,986       16.9       113,427       9.5  
Land for future development
    36,123       9.0       46,504       11.4  
 
                       
Total commercial real estate
    268,767       9.1       176,018       5.8  
Commercial and industrial
    61,619       2.2       53,239       1.9  
Retail
    24,838       2.3       17,057       1.6  
 
                       
Total(1)
  $ 355,224       5.1 %   $ 246,314       3.5 %
 
                       
 
     
(1)   Excluding charge-offs associated with the sale of non-performing loans, net charge offs for the three months ended June 30, 2009 were $252 million, or 3.7% of loans

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Provision expense for the six months ended June 30, 2009 was $922.0 million, an increase of $737.3 million compared to the same period in the prior year. Total provision expense for the three months ended June 30, 2009 was $631.5 million, an increase of $537.9 million compared to the same period in the prior year. The increase in both periods was primarily driven by charges associated with declines in the fair value of impaired loans, which consider estimated losses from non-performing note sales. Another significant component was losses from note sales completed during 2009.
The allowance for loan losses was $918.7 million, or 3.33% of net loans, at June 30, 2009 compared to $642.4 million, or 2.32% of net loans at March 31, 2009, $598.3 million, or 2.14% of net loans, at December 31, 2008, and $417.8 million, or 1.52% of net loans, at June 30, 2008. The $277 million increase in the allowance for loan losses during the three months ended June 30, 2009 was primarily driven by an increase in the loss factors associated with management’s problem asset disposition strategy.
The allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans coverage was 61.65% at June 30, 2009, compared to 64.91% at December 31, 2008, and 66.68% at June 30, 2008. The decline in coverage ratio is impacted by the increase in non-performing loans, the increase in collateral-dependent impaired loans, and the ratio of collateral-dependent impaired loans to non-performing loans. At June 30, 2009, $971.9 million, or 78.8%, of impaired loans consisted of collateral-dependent impaired loans for which Synovus has recognized charge-offs of approximately $284.0 million. Synovus evaluates loans for impairment when the ultimate collectibility of all amounts due, according to contractual terms of the loan agreement, is in doubt. Upon the determination of impairment for a collateral-dependent loan, the amount of impairment (the excess of carrying value of the loan above estimated fair value of the collateral less estimated selling costs) is charged off. As a result, the decline in coverage ratio is impacted by the increase in non-performing loans, the increase in collateral-dependent impaired loans, and the ratio of collateral dependent impaired loans to non-performing loans (which was 65.2% at June 30, 2009, 77.9% at December 31, 2008, and 76.5% at June 30, 2008). During times when non-performing loans are not significant, this coverage ratio — which measures the allowance for loan losses (which is there for the entire loan portfolio) against a small non-performing loans total — appears very large. As non-performing loans increase, this ratio will decline even with significant incremental additions to the allowance.
A substantial part of Synovus’ loans are secured by real estate in five southeastern states (Georgia, Alabama, Florida, South Carolina, and Tennessee). Accordingly, the ultimate collectibility of a substantial part of Synovus’ loan portfolio is susceptible to changes in market conditions in these areas. Based on current information and market conditions, management believes that the allowance for loan losses is adequate.

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The table below includes selected credit quality metrics.
                                         
    June 30,     March 31,     December 31,     September 30,     June 30,  
(dollars in thousands)   2009     2009     2008     2008     2008  
Non-performing loans(1)
  $ 1,490,267       1,441,188       921,708       769,950       626,571  
Other loans held for sale (2)
    34,938       22,751       3,527       13,554       6,365  
Other real estate
    210,968       287,246       246,121       215,082       197,328  
 
                             
Non-performing assets
  $ 1,736,173       1,751,185       1,171,356       998,586       830,264  
 
                             
 
                                       
Net charge-offs — quarter
  $ 355,224       246,317       229,402       105,328       70,651  
Net charge-offs/Avg. loans — quarter (3)
    5.09 %     3.53 %     3.25 %     1.53 %     1.04 %
 
                                       
Net charge-offs — YTD
  $ 601,541       246,317       469,195       239,793       134,465  
Net charge-offs/Avg. loans — YTD (3)
    4.31 %     3.53 %     1.71 %     1.18 %     0.99 %
 
                                       
Loans over 90 days past due and still accruing
  $ 31,018       31,316       38,794       49,868       39,614  
As a % of loans
    0.11 %     0.11 %     0.14 %     0.18 %     0.14 %
 
                                       
Total past due loans and still accruing
  $ 331,731       587,014       362,538       403,180       365,046  
As a % of loans
    1.20 %     2.12 %     1.30 %     1.46 %     1.33 %
 
                                       
Allowance for loan losses
  $ 918,723     $ 642,422       598,301       463,836       417,813  
Allowance for loan losses as a % of loans
    3.33 %     2.32 %     2.14 %     1.68 %     1.52 %
Non-performing loans as a % of total loans
    5.40 %     5.20 %     3.30 %     2.78 %     2.28 %
Non-performing assets as a % of total loans, other loans held for sale, and ORE
    6.24 %     6.25 %     4.16 %     3.58 %     3.00 %
 
                                       
Allowance to non-performing loans
    61.65 %     44.58 %     64.91 %     60.24 %     66.68 %
 
                                       
Collateral-dependent impaired loans(4)
  $ 971,909     $ 953,126       718,068       609,181       479,322  
 
(1)   At June 30, 2009, Synovus had $347 million in loans under the terms of troubled debt restructurings. These loans continue to accrue interest as long as the borrower complies with the revised terms and conditions and has demonstrated repayment performance. Approximately $18 million of such loans were accruing interest as of June 30, 2009.
 
(2)   Represent impaired loans that are intended to be sold. Other loans held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or fair value.
 
(3)   Ratio is annualized.
 
(4)   Life-to-date net charge-offs recognized as a percentage of the unpaid principal balance of collateral-dependent impaired loans were approximately 23% at June 30, 2009.
Management continuously monitors non-performing and past due loans, to mitigate further deterioration regarding the condition of these loans. Potential problem loans are defined by management as certain performing loans with a well defined weakness and where there is information about possible credit problems of borrowers which causes management to have doubts as to the ability of such borrowers to comply with the present repayment terms. Management’s decision to include performing loans in the category of potential problem loans means that management has recognized a higher degree of risk associated with these loans. In addition to accruing loans 90 days past due, Synovus had approximately $730 million of potential problem commercial and commercial real estate loans at June 30, 2009 as compared to approximately $710 million at March 31, 2009.

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The table below includes selected credit quality metrics for the commercial real estate portfolio. The data by geographic location is primarily based on regulatory reporting.
                                                                         
                                                   
(dollars in thousands)   As of                                   West   South        
CRE Loan Type   Date   Total   Georgia   Atlanta   Florida   Florida   Carolina   Tennessee   Alabama
Total investment properties                                                                
Balance outstanding
    06/30/09     $ 5,897,025       3,446,750       979,788       851,477       686,609       694,785       299,360       674,653  
% of total CRE
            49.5 %     50.9       42.9       52.1       52.9       38.7       60.6       50.7  
% of loan type
            100.0       58.4       16.6       14.4       11.6       11.8       3.9       11.4  
Delinquency rates(1):
                                                                       
30-89 days
    06/30/09       0.8 %     0.7       1.8       0.9       1.0       1.6       0.9       0.3  
 
    12/31/08       0.5       0.6       0.7       0.8       1.0       0.3       0.4       0.2  
³ 90 days
    06/30/09       0.04                   0.2       0.3                    
 
    12/31/08       0.1       0.2       0.4                   0.1              
Accruing past due over 90 days
    06/30/09     $ 2,153       163             1,797       1,797       193              
 
    12/31/08       6,918       6,298       4,808                   620              
Nonperforming loans
    06/30/09       351,397       260,062       34,334       39,294       35,204       26,618       6,678       16,745  
 
    12/31/08       60,530       13,746       12,297       27,372       27,372       15,832       110       3,469  
 
                                                                       
Total 1-4 family properties                                                                
Balance outstanding
    06/30/09     $ 4,393,608       2,316,042       877,241       520,723       385,224       892,330       125,481       539,032  
% of total CRE
            36.9 %     34.7       37.9       31.4       29.2       49.1       31.9       39.2  
% of loan type
            100.0       52.6       20.0       11.9       8.8       20.3       2.9       12.3  
Delinquency rates(1):
                                                                       
30-89 days
    06/30/09       1.9 %     2.5       4.1       1.6       0.6       1.2       0.4       0.9  
 
    12/31/08       2.4       3.0       4.7       4.2       3.6       0.9       0.4       0.5  
³ 90 days
    06/30/09       0.2       0.1       0.2       0.1       0.1       0.5             0.1  
 
    12/31/08       0.2       0.3       0.4                                
Accruing past due over 90 days
    06/30/09     $ 8,160       2,861       2,085       432       274       4,302             565  
 
    12/31/08       9,780       9,039       5,520       183       47       460       58       40  
Nonperforming loans
    06/30/09       651,982       437,093       251,070       79,259       65,479       100,345       18,033       17,252  
 
    12/31/08       539,782       420,203       240,600       55,928       51,444       20,410       11,576       31,665  
 
                                                                       
Land acquisition                                                                
Balance outstanding
    06/30/09     $ 1,619,395       1,005,881       426,121       262,698       225,930       209,646       23,939       117,231  
% of total CRE
            13.6 %     15.1       18.4       15.8       17.2       11.5       6.1       8.5  
% of loan type
            100.0       62.1       26.3       16.2       14.0       13.0       1.5       7.2  
Delinquency rates(1):
                                                                       
30-89 days
    06/30/09       1.6 %     1.9       2.3       1.2       0.9       1.4       1.0       0.4  
 
    12/31/08       2.0       2.7       3.0       1.5       1.6       0.3             0.5  
³ 90 days
    06/30/09       0.1       0.1       0.1       0.1       0.1                    
 
    12/31/08                                                  
Accruing past due over 90 days
    06/30/09     $ 810       574       255       236       236                    
 
    12/31/08       299       281       157                   18              
Nonperforming loans
    06/30/09       188,919       126,423       83,703       28,042       28,042       27,910       3,979       2,565  
 
    12/31/08       106,865       75,014       57,708       23,876       23,078       1,726       2,425       3,824  
 
                                                                       
Total commercial real estate                                                                
Balance outstanding
    6/30/09     $ 11,910,028       6,768,673       2,283,510       1,634,898       1,297,763       1,796,761       378,781       1,330,916  
% of total CRE
            100.0 %                                                        
% of loan type
            100.0       56.8       19.2       13.7       10.9       15.1       3.2       11.2  
Delinquency rates(1):
                                                                       
30-89 days
    06/30/09       1.3 %     1.5       2.8       1.1       0.9       1.4       0.7       0.5  
 
    12/31/08       1.5       1.9       2.9       2.1       2.0       0.6       0.4       0.3  
³ 90 days
    06/30/09       0.1       0.1       0.1       0.1       0.2       0.2              
 
    12/31/08       0.1       0.2       0.4                   0.1              
Accruing past due over 90 days
    06/30/09     $ 11,123       3,598       2,340       2,465       2,307       4,495             565  
 
    12/31/08       16,997       15,618       10,485       183       47       1,098       58       40  
Nonperforming loans
    06/30/09       1,192,298       823,578       369,107       146,595       128,725       156,873       28,691       36,562  
 
    12/31/08       707,176       508,963       310,605       107,176       101,894       37,968       14,111       38,958  
 
(1)    Excludes non-accruing loans.

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The following table shows the composition of the loan portfolio and non-performing loans (classified by loan type) as of June 30, 2009:
                                 
                            % of  
                    Total     Total  
            % of     Non-     Non-  
(dollars in thousands)           Total Loans     Performing     Performing  
Loan Type   Total Loans     Outstanding     Loans     Loans  
Multi-family
  $ 838,795       3.0 %   $ 23,050       1.5 %
Hotels
    1,026,163       3.7       236,087       15.8  
Office buildings
    1,110,896       4.0       19,691       1.3  
Shopping centers
    1,084,080       3.9       5,820       0.4  
Commercial development
    735,834       2.7       44,373       3.0  
Warehouses
    491,944       1.8       5,729       0.4  
Other investment property
    609,313       2.2       16,647       1.1  
 
                       
Total Investment Properties
    5,897,025       21.3       351,397       23.5  
 
                       
 
                               
1-4 family construction
    1,224,446       4.4       237,244       15.9  
1-4 family perm/mini-perm
    1,429,916       5.2       83,663       5.6  
Residential development
    1,739,246       6.3       331,075       22.2  
 
                       
Total 1-4 Family Properties
    4,393,608       15.9       651,982       43.7  
 
                       
 
                               
Land Acquisition
    1,619,395       5.9       188,919       12.7  
 
                       
Total Commercial Real Estate
    11,910,028       43.1       1,192,298       79.9  
 
                       
 
                               
Commercial, financial, and agricultural
    6,545,088       23.7       158,720       10.7  
Owner-occupied
    4,829,805       17.5       68,913       4.6  
 
                       
Total Commercial and Industrial Loans
    11,374,893       41.2       227,633       15.3  
 
                       
 
                               
Home equity
    1,729,528       6.3       16,121       1.1  
Consumer mortgages
    1,725,223       6.3       47,365       3.2  
Credit card
    288,349       1.0              
Other retail loans
    586,029       2.2       6,850       0.5  
 
                       
Total Retail
    4,329,129       15.8       70,336       4.8  
 
                       
 
                               
Unearned Income
    (28,309 )     (0.1 )            
 
                       
Total
  $ 27,585,741       100.0 %   $ 1,490,267       100.0 %
 
                       
Deposits
The following table presents the composition of deposits:
                         
  June 30,     December 31,     June 30,  
(in thousands)   2009     2008     2008  
Non-interest bearing demand deposit accounts
  $ 3,861,782       3,563,619       3,553,342  
Money market accounts
    7,823,494       8,094,452       7,804,168  
National market brokered money market accounts
    1,547,323       1,985,465       1,019,501  
NOW accounts
    3,364,067       3,359,410       3,247,978  
Savings accounts
    479,329       437,656       459,888  
Time deposits
    11,895,142       13,162,042       10,962,976  
National market brokered time deposits
    3,447,318       4,352,614       3,567,801  
 
                 
Total deposits
  $ 27,423,814       28,617,179       26,028,352  
 
                 
 
                       
Core deposits (1)
  $ 22,429,173       22,279,100       21,441,050  
 
                 
 
(1)   Core deposits include total deposits less national market brokered deposits. See reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures on page 75.

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Total deposits at June 30, 2009 were $27.4 billion, a decrease of $1.19 billion, or 8.4% annualized, compared to December 31, 2008, and an increase of $1.40 billion, or 5.4%, compared to June 30, 2008. Core deposits (total deposits excluding national market brokered deposits) increased $150.1 million, or 1.4% annualized, compared to December 31, 2008, and increased $988.1 million, or 4.6%, compared to June 30, 2008. The year over year increase was primarily related to growth within total core time deposits, which increased $0.9 billion, or 8.5%, and demand deposit accounts, which increased $308.4 million, or 8.7%.
Because of its multiple charter structure, Synovus has the unique ability to offer certain shared deposit products (Synovus® Shared Deposit). Synovus’ Shared CD and Money Market accounts provide customers up to $7.5 million in FDIC insurance per individual account by spreading deposits across its 30 separately-chartered banks. Shared deposit products totaled $1.92 billion at June 30, 2009 as compared to $1.74 billion at December 31, 2008 and $303.4 million at June 30, 2008. These products were the primary driver of the year over year time deposit growth.
During the first quarter of 2009, Synovus received notification from the FDIC that deposits obtained through Synovus® Shared Deposit products should be listed as brokered deposits in bank subsidiary Call Reports. Therefore, Synovus’ March 31, 2009 bank subsidiary Call Reports reflect customer deposits held in Synovus® Shared Deposit products as brokered deposits as requested by the FDIC. The FDIC defines brokered deposits as “funds which the reporting bank obtains, directly or indirectly, by or through any deposit broker for deposit into one or more deposit accounts.” The FDIC further defines the term deposit broker to include: “(1) any person engaged in the business of placing deposits, or facilitating the placement of deposits, of third parties with insured depository institutions or the business of placing deposits with insured depository institutions for the purpose of selling interests in those deposits to third parties, and (2) an agent or trustee who establishes a deposit account to facilitate a business arrangement with an insured depository institution to use the proceeds of the account to fund a prearranged loan.” The FDIC also provides the following 9 exclusions for what the term deposit broker does not include: “(1) an insured depository institution, with respect to funds placed with that depository institution; (2) an employee of an insured depository institution, with respect to funds placed with the employing depository institution; (3) a trust department of an insured depository institution, if the trust in question has not been established for the primary purpose of placing funds with insured depository institutions; (4) the trustee of a pension or other employee benefit plan, with respect to funds of the plan; (5) a person acting as a plan administrator or an investment adviser in connection with a pension plan or other employee benefit plan provided that that person is performing managerial functions with respect to the plan; (6) the trustee of a testamentary account; (7) the trustee of an irrevocable trust (other than a trustee who establishes a deposit account to facilitate a business arrangement with an insured depository institution to use the proceeds of the account to fund a prearranged loan), as long as the trust in question has not been established for the primary purpose of placing funds with insured depository institutions; (8) a trustee or custodian of a pension or profit-sharing plan qualified under Section 401(d) or 430(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; or (9) an agent or nominee whose primary purpose is not the placement of funds with depository institutions. (For purposes of applying this ninth exclusion from the definition of deposit broker, “primary purpose” does not mean “primary activity,” but should be construed as “primary intent.”)” The FDIC requested this

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reporting change since Synovus facilitates the placement of customer deposits among its separately-chartered bank subsidiaries. At a consolidated level, Synovus includes and reports Synovus® Shared Deposit product balances held throughout its bank subsidiaries as core deposits (total deposits excluding national market brokered deposits).
Due to the significant turmoil in financial markets during the second half of 2008, national market brokered deposits became more attractive to financial market participants and investors as an FDIC insured alternative to money market and other investment accounts. Synovus grew this funding source as demand for these products increased during the second half of 2008, but has reduced its dependence on funding from these products through normal run off during the six months ended June 30, 2009. National market brokered deposits were $4.99 billion at June 30, 2009 as compared to $6.34 billion at December 31, 2008 and $4.59 billion at June 30, 2008.
Capital Resources and Liquidity
Synovus has always placed great emphasis on maintaining a solid capital base and continues to exceed regulatory capital requirements for well capitalized financial institutions. Management is committed to maintaining a capital level sufficient to assure shareholders, customers, and regulators that Synovus is financially sound, and to enable Synovus to provide a desirable level of long-term profitability. Based on internal calculations and previous regulatory exams, each of Synovus’ subsidiary banks is currently in compliance with regulatory capital guidelines and is considered well capitalized.
The following table presents certain ratios used to measure Synovus’ capitalization:
                         
    June 30,   March 31,   December 31,
(in thousands)   2009   2009   2008
Tier 1 capital
  $ 2,862,225       3,454,987       3,602,848  
Tier 1 common equity
    1,928,370       2,523,119       2,673,055  
Total risk-based capital
    3,836,405       4,440,573       4,674,476  
Tier 1 capital ratio
    9.53 %     11.06       11.22  
Tier 1 common equity ratio
    6.42       8.08       8.33  
Total risk-based capital to risk-weighted assets ratio
    12.77       14.22       14.56  
Leverage ratio
    8.25       9.88       10.28  
Equity to assets ratio
    8.89       10.63       10.67  
Tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio (1)
    6.05       7.80       7.95  
Tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets (1)
    6.90       8.61       8.84  
 
(1)   See reconciliation of non-GAAP Financial Measures on page 75.
Since the third quarter of 2007, the credit markets (particularly residential and commercial development real estate markets) have experienced severe difficulties and worsened economic conditions. Continued credit deterioration and any resulting increases in non-performing assets and the allowance for loan losses could adversely impact our liquidity position and capital ratios and require us to seek additional capital. Synovus issued $967.9 million of Series A Preferred Stock in December 2008 as part of the U.S. Treasury Capital Purchase Program (CPP) which has strengthened Synovus’ capital.
On May 7, 2009, the Federal Reserve Board announced the results of the Supervisory Capital Assessment Program (“SCAP”), commonly referred to as the “stress test,” of the capital needs through the end of 2010 of the nineteen largest U.S. bank holding companies. As a result of the SCAP, a number of the bank holding companies reviewed as part of the SCAP were required, or

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voluntarily chose, to raise additional Tier 1 capital, particularly common equity. Following the release of the SCAP results, bank holding companies that were not part of the SCAP, such as Synovus, have faced significant speculation as to the results of the stress tests performed on the largest 19 financial institutions and the hypothetical results if the stress test methodology if it was applied to other financial institutions, including regional banks smaller in size. Under the SCAP methodology, financial institutions were required to maintain Tier 1 common equity at or above 4% of risk weighted assets. This additional common equity is intended to serve as a buffer against higher losses than generally expected, and allow such bank holding companies to remain well capitalized and able to lend to creditworthy borrowers should such losses materialize. Synovus’ management conducted an analysis of Synovus’ capital position using certain aspects of the SCAP methodology but applying Synovus’ own assumptions relating to certain economic factors and credit conditions. Based on this analysis, management presently believes that Synovus would be able to comply with this 4% regulatory capital threshold using internally generated sources of capital. However, if economic conditions or other factors worsen to a greater degree than the assumptions underlying Synovus’ internal assessment of its capital position, or if there are opportunities for Synovus to undertake one or more transactions that potentially would be accretive to Synovus’ capital and/or liquidity position, then Synovus may seek additional capital from external sources, or enter into such other transactions.
Synovus’ management, operating under liquidity and funding policies approved by the Board of Directors, actively analyzes and manages the liquidity position in coordination with the subsidiary banks. Synovus generates liquidity through maturities and repayments of loans by customers, deposit growth and access to sources of funds other than deposits. Management must ensure that adequate liquidity, at a reasonable cost, is available to meet the cash flow needs of depositors, borrowers, and creditors. Management constantly monitors and maintains appropriate levels of liquidity so as to provide adequate funding sources to meet estimated customer deposit withdrawals and future loan requests. Liquidity is also enhanced by the acquisition of new deposits. The subsidiary banks monitor deposit flows and evaluate alternate pricing structures in an effort to retain and grow deposits. In the current market environment, customer confidence is a critical element in growing and retaining deposits. In this regard, Synovus subsidiary banks’ asset quality could play a larger role in the stability of our deposit base. In the event asset quality declined significantly from its current level, the ability to grow and retain deposits could be diminished, which in turn could reduce deposits as a liquidity source.
Synovus subsidiary banks also generate liquidity through the national deposit markets. These subsidiary banks issue longer-term certificates of deposit across a broad geographic base to increase their liquidity and funding positions. Selected Synovus subsidiary banks have the capacity to access funding through their membership in the Federal Home Loan Bank System. At June 30, 2009, most Synovus subsidiary banks had access to incremental funding, subject to available collateral and Federal Home Loan Bank credit policies, through utilization of Federal Home Loan Bank advances.
Synovus Financial Corp., as the holding company (Parent Company), requires cash for various operating needs including payment of dividends to shareholders, capital infusions into subsidiaries, the servicing of debt, and the payment of general corporate expenses. The primary source of liquidity for the Parent Company is dividends from the subsidiary banks, which are governed by certain rules and regulations of various state and federal banking regulatory agencies. Dividends from subsidiaries in 2009 will be significantly lower than those received in previous years. Should Synovus’ subsidiaries require additional capital resources, either due to asset growth or realized losses, the Parent Company may be required to provide capital infusions

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to these subsidiaries. During 2009, Synovus has been required to provide capital to certain subsidiaries and expects to continue to do so in the second half of 2009. In addition, current market conditions and dividends on the Series A Preferred Stock will likely continue to put additional pressure on liquidity. The Parent Company has historically enjoyed a solid reputation and credit standing in the capital markets and historically has been able to raise funds in the form of either short or long-term borrowings or equity issuances. Given the weakened economy, current market conditions, and our recent credit ratings downgrades, there is no assurance that the Parent Company will, if it chooses to do so, be able to obtain new borrowings or issue additional equity on terms that are satisfactory. See Part II — Item 1A — Risk Factors — “We may be unable to receive dividends from our subsidiary banks, and we may be required to contribute capital to those banks, which could adversely affect our liquidity and cause us to raise capital on terms that are unfavorable to us.” Due to these factors, Synovus is currently maintaining a cash position in excess of normal levels. Synovus is also evaluating additional capital and cash management strategies including the potential sale of selected assets. While liquidity is an ongoing challenge for all financial institutions, Synovus believes that the sources of liquidity discussed above, including existing liquid funds on hand, are sufficient to meet its anticipated funding needs.
The consolidated statements of cash flows detail cash flows from operating, investing, and financing activities. For the six months ended June 30, 2009, operating activities provided net cash of $169.7 million, investing activities provided $362.2 million, and financing activities used $613.5 million, resulting in a decrease in cash and due from banks of $81.6 million.

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Earning Assets, Sources of Funds, and Net Interest Income
Average total assets for the first six months of 2009 were $35.01 billion, an increase of 4.7% compared to the first six months of 2008. Average earning assets increased 5.3% in the first six months of 2009 compared to the same period in 2008, and represented 91.8% of average total assets. Average deposits increased $2.74 billion, average long-term debt increased $38.4 million, and average shareholders’ equity increased $148.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 as compared to the same period last year. Average investment securities (available for sale and trading securities) decreased $44.8 million for the first six months of 2009 as compared to the same period in 2008. The primary components of earning asset growth were a $868.2 million increase in federal funds sold, balances held with the Federal Reserve, and securities purchased under resale agreements, $600.3 million growth in average net loans, and a $119.1 million increase in mortgage loans held for sale. Additionally, the growth in funding sources discussed above permitted a $1.32 billion reduction in average federal funds purchased.
Net interest income for the six months ended June 30, 2009 was $499.8 million, a decrease of $52.2 million, or 9.5%, compared to $552.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008. Net interest income for the three months ended June 30, 2009 was $256.6 million, a decrease of $16.8 million, or 6.1%, compared to $273.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008.
The net interest margin for the six months ended June 30, 2009 was 3.15%, down 49 basis points from 3.64% for the six months ended June 30, 2008. Compared to the six months ended June 30, 2008, earning asset yields decreased by 148 basis points. Loan yields declined by 155 basis points, primarily due to a 240 basis point decline in the average prime rate and higher levels of nonperforming loans and interest charge-offs. The decline in earning asset yields was partially offset by a 99 basis point decline in the effective cost of funds. The most significant decrease in funding costs was federal funds purchased and other short term liabilities, which declined by 213 basis points and national market money market accounts, which declined by 218 basis points.
On a sequential quarter basis, net interest income increased by $13.4 million, while the net interest margin increased 18 basis points to 3.23%. The increase was primarily due to a continued focus on improving loan pricing and the downward repricing of maturing certificates of deposit. Yields on earning assets decreased by 1 basis point as loan yields decreased by 5 basis points. This decrease was due to a higher level of non-performing loans and interest charge-offs, and paydowns on higher yielding fixed rate loans. The effective cost of funds decreased by 19 basis points. Effective cost of funds was positively impacted by the downward repricing of maturing certificates of deposit and continued declines in money market yields.
The direction of the margin during the remainder of 2009 could be significantly influenced by loan pricing trends, deposit pricing competition and trends in credit costs. Current expectations are for further margin improvement in the second half of 2009. The primary factors in this improvement should be additional downward repricing of maturing certificates of deposit and a continued emphasis in improving loan pricing performance.

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Quarterly yields earned on average interest-earning assets and rates paid on average interest-bearing liabilities for the five most recent quarters are presented below:
                                         
    2009     2008  
    Second     First     Fourth     Third     Second  
(dollars in thousands)   Quarter     Quarter     Quarter     Quarter     Quarter  
Interest Earning Assets:
                                       
Taxable investment securities
  $ 3,353,382       3,455,091       3,549,643       3,548,227       3,437,320  
Yield
    5.16 %     5.22       4.94       5.06       5.16  
Tax-exempt investment securities
  $ 107,626       116,163       122,332       128,241       137,606  
Yield
    7.08 %     6.91       6.79       6.74       7.34  
Trading account assets
  $ 19,984       22,580       29,727       30,584       26,531  
Yield
    5.57 %     6.02       5.10       6.77       5.88  
Commercial loans
  $ 23,572,578       23,525,450       23,870,384       23,302,028       23,183,128  
Yield
    4.72 %     4.77       5.46       5.78       5.96  
Consumer loans
  $ 4,335,897       4,353,580       4,347,332       4,267,477       4,115,130  
Yield
    5.38 %     5.50       5.88       6.19       6.29  
Allowance for loan losses
  $ (663,355 )     (627,110 )     (473,875 )     (422,331 )     (397,392 )
 
                             
Loans, net
  $ 27,245,120       27,251,920       27,743,841       27,147,174       26,900,866  
Yield
    4.96 %     5.01       5.63       5.95       6.12  
Mortgage loans held for sale
  $ 268,933       247,937       98,362       108,873       157,049  
Yield
    4.94 %     5.46       5.96       6.91       5.86  
Federal funds sold, due from Federal Reserve Bank and other short-term investments
  $ 996,754       1,214,897       642,396       211,323       201,081  
Yield
    0.24 %     0.31       0.60       1.88       1.83  
Federal Home Loan Bank and Federal Reserve Bank Stock (1)
  $ 132,346       117,205       121,994       122,088       119,061  
Yield
    0.54 %     0.66       0.20       3.61       5.71  
 
                             
Total interest earning assets
  $ 32,124,145       32,425,793       32,308,295       31,296,510       30,979,514  
Yield
    4.83 %     4.84       5.44       5.81       5.96  
 
                             
 
                                       
Interest Bearing Liabilities:
                                       
Interest bearing demand deposits
  $ 3,582,954       3,602,371       3,201,355       3,076,447       3,154,884  
Rate
    0.45 %     0.49       0.80       1.07       1.10  
Money market accounts
  $ 6,241,764       6,272,015       6,129,751       6,771,080       6,826,724  
Rate
    1.24 %     1.30       1.80       2.19       2.15  
Savings deposits
  $ 477,752       452,206       442,623       457,526       461,970  
Rate
    0.15 %     0.16       0.22       0.25       0.25  
Time deposits under $100,000
  $ 3,126,984       3,222,601       3,264,401       3,055,465       2,814,714  
Rate
    3.13 %     3.41       3.64       3.69       3.97  
Time deposits over $100,000
  $ 5,355,736       5,555,084       5,386,772       4,731,468       4,316,454  
Rate
    3.04 %     3.31       3.63       3.79       4.09  
National market brokered money market accounts
  $ 1,885,214       2,073,734       1,982,179       1,271,113       1,082,008  
Rate
    0.75 %     0.82       1.27       2.27       2.54  
National market brokered time deposits
  $ 3,203,546       3,718,570       4,549,172       3,968,783       3,495,947  
Rate
    3.09 %     3.38       3.70       3.61       3.64  
 
                             
Total interest bearing deposits
  $ 23,873,950       24,896,581       24,956,253       23,331,882       22,152,701  
Rate
    1.96 %     2.16       2.58       2.77       2.82  
Federal funds purchased and other short-term liabilities
  $ 1,166,785       578,717       876,330       1,459,097       2,302,986  
Rate
    0.36 %     0.59       0.90       1.94       2.03  
Long-term debt
  $ 2,090,710       1,964,064       2,106,785       2,119,321       2,048,213  
Rate
    1.94 %     2.07       3.44       3.32       3.44  
 
                             
Total interest bearing liabilities
  $ 27,131,445       27,439,362       27,939,368       26,910,300       26,503,900  
Rate
    1.89 %     2.11       2.59       2.77       2.80  
 
                             
Non-interest bearing demand deposits
  $ 3,812,876       3,611,958       3,508,753       3,463,563       3,448,794  
 
                             
Net interest margin
    3.23 %     3.05       3.20       3.42       3.57  
 
                             
 
*   Yields and rates are annualized.
 
(1)   Included as a component of other assets on the accompanying balance sheet.

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Yields earned on average interest-earning assets and rates paid on average interest-bearing liabilities for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 are presented below:
                 
    Six Months Ended June 30,  
(dollars in thousands)   2009     2008  
Interest Earning Assets:
               
Taxable investment securities
  $ 3,403,956       3,404,324  
Yield
    5.19 %     5.19  
Tax-exempt investment securities
  $ 111,871       146,007  
Yield
    6.99 %     7.16  
Trading account assets
  $ 21,275       31,592  
Yield
    5.71 %     6.40  
Commercial loans
  $ 23,549,144       22,973,543  
Yield
    4.74 %     6.37  
Consumer loans
  $ 4,344,690       4,071,035  
Yield
    5.44 %     6.70  
Allowance for loan losses
  $ (645,333 )     (389,544 )
 
           
Loans, net
  $ 27,248,501       26,655,034  
Yield
    4.98 %     6.53  
Mortgage loans held for sale
  $ 258,493       139,427  
Yield
    5.19 %     5.75  
Federal funds sold, due from Federal Reserve Bank and other short-term investments
  $ 1,105,223       164,731  
Yield
    0.28 %     2.40  
Federal Home Loan Bank and Federal Reserve Bank stock (1)
  $ 124,817       116,551  
Yield
    0.59 %     5.76  
 
           
Total interest earning assets
  $ 32,274,136       30,657,666  
Yield
    4.84 %     6.32  
 
           
 
               
Interest Bearing Liabilities:
               
Interest bearing demand deposits
  $ 3,592,609       3,177,767  
Rate
    0.47 %     1.33  
Money market accounts
  $ 6,256,806       6,922,184  
Rate
    1.27 %     2.57  
Savings deposits
  $ 465,050       455,276  
Rate
    0.15 %     0.27  
Time deposits under $100,000
  $ 3,174,528       2,796,239  
Rate
    3.27 %     4.20  
Time deposits over $100,000
  $ 5,454,859       4,244,085  
Rate
    3.18 %     4.38  
National market brokered money market accounts
  $ 1,978,953       968,595  
Rate
    0.79 %     2.97  
National market brokered time deposits
  $ 3,459,636       3,398,312  
Rate
    3.25 %     3.98  
 
           
Total interest bearing deposits
  $ 24,382,441       21,962,458  
Rate
    2.00 %     3.01  
Federal funds purchased and other short-term liabilities
  $ 874,376       2,278,313  
Rate
    0.43 %     2.56  
Long-term debt
  $ 2,027,737       1,989,312  
Rate
    1.98 %     3.75  
 
           
Total interest bearing liabilities
  $ 27,284,554       26,230,083  
Rate
    2.00 %     3.14  
 
           
 
Non-interest bearing demand deposits
  $ 3,712,972       3,393,450  
 
 
           
Net interest margin
    3.15 %     3.64  
 
           
 
*   Yields and rates are annualized.
 
(1)   Included as a component of other assets on the accompanying balance sheet.

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The following table summarizes the components of net interest income for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, including the tax-equivalent adjustment that is required in making yields on tax-exempt loans and investment securities comparable to taxable loans and investment securities. The taxable-equivalent adjustment is based on a 35% Federal income tax rate.
                                 
    Six Months Ended     Three Months Ended  
    June 30,     June 30,  
(in thousands)   2009     2008     2009     2008  
Interest income
  $ 770,885       962,020       384,491       458,140  
Taxable-equivalent adjustment
    2,399       2,311       1,219       1,134  
 
                       
Interest income, taxable equivalent
    773,284       964,331       385,710       459,274  
Interest expense
    271,037       409,950       127,883       184,719  
 
                       
Net interest income, taxable equivalent
  $ 502,247       554,381       257,827       274,555  
 
                       
Non-Interest Income
The following table summarizes non-interest income for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008.
                                 
    Six Months Ended     Three Months Ended  
    June 30,     June 30,  
(in thousands)   2009     2008     2009     2008  
Service charges on deposit accounts
  $ 58,401       54,461       29,702       26,070  
Fiduciary and asset management fees
    21,471       25,519       10,657       12,898  
Brokerage and investment banking revenue
    14,393       17,693       7,521       9,206  
Mortgage banking income
    23,912       13,847       14,590       5,686  
Bankcard fees
    26,436       26,417       13,755       14,198  
Other fee income
    16,412       21,266       8,722       10,081  
Other non-interest income
    19,122       28,798       6,450       13,373  
Increase in fair value of private equity investments, net
    8,090       4,946       8,090        
Proceeds from sale of MasterCard shares
    8,351       16,186       8,351       16,186  
Proceeds from redemption of Visa shares
          38,542              
 
                       
Total non-interest income
  $ 196,588       247,675       107,838       107,698  
 
                       
Total non-interest income for the six months ended June 30, 2009 decreased $51.1 million, or 20.6%, and increased $140 thousand, or 0.1%, as compared to the six and three months ended June 30, 2008. Excluding the 2008 gain on redemption of Visa shares, the increase in fair value of private equity investments and the proceeds from sale of MasterCard shares in both 2009 and 2008, total non-interest income for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 decreased $7.9 million, or 4.2%, and decreased $0.1 million, or 0.1% compared to same periods a year ago.
Service charges on deposit accounts, the single largest component of fee income, were $58.4 million and $29.7 million for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, up 7.2% and 13.9% from the same periods in 2008. Service charges on deposit accounts consist of non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees (which represent 60.4% and 60.1% of the total for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009), account analysis fees, and all other service charges.
NSF fees for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 were $35.3 million and $17.8 million, representing an increase of $793 thousand, or 2.3%, and $2.1 million, or 13.6%, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2008. Account analysis fees were $14.2 million and $7.0 million for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, and increased $2.7 million, or 23.9%, and $858 thousand, or 14.0% compared to the same periods in the prior

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year. The increase in account analysis fees was primarily due to lower earnings credits on commercial demand deposit accounts. All other service charges on deposit accounts, which consist primarily of monthly fees on retail demand deposit and saving accounts, were $8.9 million and $4.9 million for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, representing an increase of $404 thousand, or 4.8%, and $639 thousand, or 15.1%, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2008.
Financial management services revenues (which primarily consist of fiduciary and asset management fees, brokerage and investment banking revenue, and customer interest rate swap revenue which is included in other fee income) decreased 21.3% to $40.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009, and decreased 18.2% to $21.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009, as compared to the same periods in 2008. The decline in financial management services revenue for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 was impacted by market factors, including weakness in the economy as well as the lower market value of assets under management.
Mortgage banking income increased $10.1 million, or 72.7%, for the six months ended June 30, 2009, and increased $8.9 million, or 156.6%, for the three months ended June 30, 2009 as compared to the same periods in 2008. The increase primarily results from mortgage production, which increased $646.2 million, or 95.0%, and $298.0 million, or 87.3% for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 compared to the same periods in the prior year. The increased mortgage production is principally related to a high volume of refinance business. The 2008 results for the three months ended March 31, 2008, include a $1.2 million increase in mortgage revenues due to the adoption of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) No. 109, “Written Loan Commitments Recorded at Fair Value through Earnings.”
Other fee income decreased $4.9 million and $1.4 million, or 22.8% and 13.5%, respectively, for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 as compared to the same periods in 2008. The decreases for the six and three month periods are principally due to a decline in fees associated with customer interest rate swap transactions and letters of credit.
Other non-interest income decreased $9.7 million, or 33.6%, for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and decreased $6.9 million, or 51.8%, for the three months ended June 30, 2009 compared to the same periods in 2008. The decline in other non-interest income for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 was primarily due to a decline in life insurance cash surrender value appreciation income.
During the three months ended June 30, 2009, Synovus sold the remainder of its MasterCard shares and recognized a pre-tax gain of $8.4 million as compared to a $16.2 million gain from the sale of MasterCard shares for the three months ended June 30, 2008. During the three months ended March 31, 2008, Synovus recognized a pre-tax gain of $38.5 million on redemption of a portion of its membership interest in Visa, Inc. as a result of the Visa IPO. For further discussion of Visa, see the section titled “Visa, Inc. Initial Public Offering and Litigation Expense” above and the section titled “Non-Interest Expense” below.

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Non-Interest Expense
The following table summarizes non-interest expense for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008.
                                 
    Six Months Ended     Three Months Ended  
    June 30,     June 30,  
(in thousands)   2009     2008     2009     2008  
Salaries and other personnel expense
  $ 221,294       231,806       109,315       109,676  
Net occupancy and equipment expense
    62,374       61,337       30,727       31,126  
FDIC insurance and other regulatory fees
    43,060       12,250       30,061       6,172  
Foreclosed real estate expense
    218,734       21,558       172,404       13,677  
Losses on other loans held for sale
    1,095       9,944       1,160       9,944  
Goodwill impairment
          27,000             27,000  
Professional fees
    17,312       13,394       10,355       8,454  
Restructuring charges
    6,755       4,251       397       4,251  
Other operating expenses
    89,050       103,228       41,897       55,664  
Visa litigation expense (recovery)
          (17,430 )            
 
                       
Total non-interest expense
  $ 659,674       467,338       396,316       265,964  
 
                       
Non-interest expense increased by 41.2% and 49.0% for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, compared to the same periods in the prior year. Fundamental non-interest expense (excluding other credit costs, FDIC insurance expense, restructuring charges, changes in the Visa litigation accrual, and goodwill impairment expense as shown in more detail on page 75 of this report) is down $23.7 million, or 5.8%, and $9.6 million, or 4.8% for the six and three months ended March 31, 2009.
For the six and three months ended June 30, 2009, salaries and other personnel expenses decreased by $10.5 million, or 4.5%, and $361 thousand, or 0.3% compared to the same periods in the prior year. The 2009 amounts reflect reductions in retirement and discretionary benefit accruals, and in the total number of employees. For 2009, no executive salary increases, cash bonuses, or equity grants will be made. Additionally, no merit increases are planned for non-executive employees. Total employees at June 30, 2009 were 6,465, down 411, or 6.0%, compared to December 31, 2008, and down 810, or 11.1%, compared to June 30, 2008. Net occupancy and equipment expense increased $1.0 million, or 1.7%, and decreased $399 thousand, or 1.3% for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 compared to the same periods in the prior year.
Other credit costs, which include expenses associated with foreclosed real estate, losses on the sale of other loans held for sale, provision for losses on unfunded commitments and customer interest rate swaps, and other collection related expenses, increased $191.8 million to $230.6 million, and increased $146.6 million to $176.3 million for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 compared to the same periods in the prior year. The increase in other credit costs is principally the result of heightened levels of foreclosures and assets obtained through foreclosure proceedings (primarily other real estate) as well as losses associated with disposal of foreclosed assets.
FDIC insurance expense increased $31.3 million to $40.6 million and increased $24.2 million to $28.9 million for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 compared to the same periods in the prior year. The increase in FDIC insurance and other regulatory fees is primarily a result of the FDIC’s increase in base assessment rates at the beginning of 2009 as well as a $16.6 million special assessment in June 2009, which was assessed as 5 basis points of total assets minus Tier 1 capital. The current year increase in FDIC insurance expense is also a result of Synovus’

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voluntary participation in the FDIC Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program. This FDIC program allows Synovus to offer 100% deposit protection for non-interest bearing deposit transaction accounts regardless of dollar amount at FDIC-insured institutions.
Restructuring (severance) charges of $6.8 million and $400 thousand were recognized for the six and three months ended June 30, 2009.
Synovus recorded a litigation accrual in 2007 associated with indemnification obligations under Visa’s Retrospective Responsibility Plan. During the three months ended March 31, 2008, Synovus reversed $17.4 million of its litigation accrual for its membership proportion of the amount which Visa funded to an escrow established to pay judgments or settlements of Visa’s covered litigation. For further discussion of the Visa litigation expense, see the section titled “Visa Initial Public Offering and Litigation Expense.”
Income Tax Expense
The effective tax rate for the second quarter 2009 was principally impacted by the recognition of a significant increase in the deferred tax assets valuation allowance. Other contributing factors were the level of exempt income earned relative to the overall level of pre-tax loss, restrictions imposed by state laws which prohibit net operating loss deductions from being applied in either past or future periods, the recognition of a valuation allowance for certain state deferred tax assets and changes in the level of income in various jurisdictions where Synovus operates, due to the income tax rates differing among such jurisdictions.
                                 
    Six Months Ended   Three Months Ended
    June 30,   June 30,
(in thousands)   2009   2008   2009   2008
Income (loss) before income taxes
  $ (885,201 )     147,742       (663,396 )     21,539  
Income tax (benefit) expense
    (164,220 )     52,952       (79,143 )     9,302  
Effective tax rate
    (18.6 %)     35.8 %     (11.9 %)     43.2 %
During the three months ended June 30, 2009, Synovus performed its quarterly assessment of net deferred tax assets. Under SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (“SFAS No. 109”), companies are required to assess whether a valuation allowance should be established against their deferred tax assets based on the consideration of all available evidence using a “more likely than not” standard. In making such judgments, significant weight is given to evidence that can be objectively verified. As a result of the increased credit losses, Synovus is now in a three-year cumulative pre-tax loss position as of June 30, 2009. A cumulative loss position is considered significant negative evidence in assessing the realizability of a deferred tax asset which is difficult to overcome. Synovus did not consider future taxable income in determining the realizability of its deferred tax assets. Synovus’ estimate of the realization of its deferred tax assets was solely based on future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, taxable income in prior carry back years, and tax planning strategies. This resulted in an increase to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance of approximately $173 million during the three months ended June 30, 2009. The increase in the valuation allowance was recorded through an adjustment to the estimated annual effective tax rate. Based on current projections, Synovus estimates that the effective tax rate for the second half of 2009 will remain at approximately the same level as the actual effective tax rate for the first half of 2009 (18.7%). While there are many factors that could impact the actual effective tax rate, a significant factor is management’s projection of the pre-tax loss for the year. If the

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projected pre-tax losses vary significantly from current estimates, the actual effective tax rate could vary significantly.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of valuation allowance recorded against deferred tax assets is as follows:
                 
(in thousands)   2009     2008  
Balance at January 1
  $ 5,068        
Increase for three months ended March 31
    3,327       1,221  
Increase for the three months ended June 30
    173,424       767  
 
           
Balance at June 30
  $ 181,819       1,988  
 
           
Dividends
The following table presents information regarding dividends declared on Synovus’ common stock during the six months ended June 30, 2009 and the twelve months ended December 31, 2008.
                                         
2009   2008
            Per Share                   Per Share
Date Declared   Date Paid   Amount   Date Declared   Date Paid   Amount
March 10, 2009
  April 1, 2009   $ 0.0100     March 10, 2008   April 1, 2008   $ 0.1700  
June 10, 2009
  July 1, 2009     0.0100     June 9, 2008   July 1, 2008     0.1700  
 
                  September 10, 2009   October 1, 2008     0.0600  
 
                  December 9, 2008   January 2, 2009     0.0600  
On September 10, 2008, Synovus announced that its Board of Directors had voted to reduce its dividend by 65% to $0.06 per share to further strengthen Synovus’ financial position by preserving its capital base. On March 10, 2009, Synovus announced that its Board of Directors voted to further reduce it dividend by 83% to $0.01 per share to enable Synovus to further preserve its capital base. Management closely monitors trends and developments in credit quality, liquidity (including dividends from subsidiaries, which are expected to be significantly lower than those received in previous years), financial markets and other economic trends, as well as regulatory requirements, all of which impact Synovus’ capital position, and will continue to periodically review dividend levels to determine if they are appropriate in light of these factors.
In addition to dividends paid on its common stock, Synovus paid dividends of $19.6 million and $12.1 million, to the Treasury on our Series A Preferred Stock during the six and three months ended June 30, 2009 and March 31, 2009, respectively. There were no dividends paid during 2008 on the Series A Preferred Stock, which was issued on December 19, 2008.
Synovus’ participation in the Capital Purchase Program restricts its ability to increase the quarterly cash dividends payable on Synovus common stock. Prior to December 19, 2011, unless Synovus has redeemed the Series A Preferred Stock or the Treasury has transferred the Series A preferred stock to a third party, the consent of the Treasury will be required for Synovus to pay a quarterly dividend of more than $0.06 per share or make any distribution on its common stock.
Synovus’ ability to pay dividends is dependent upon dividends and distributions to the Parent Company from its banking and non-banking subsidiaries, which are restricted by various regulations administered by federal and state bank regulatory authorities. Dividends from subsidiaries in 2009 will be significantly lower than those received in previous years. In addition,

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the Federal Reserve Board also has supervisory authority that may limit Synovus’ ability to pay dividends on its capital stock under certain circumstances. Based on guidance issued by the Federal Reserve Board on February 24, 2009 and revised on March 27, 2009, Synovus must inform and consult with the Federal Reserve Board prior to declaring and paying any future dividends.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 166, “Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets — an amendment of FASB Statement No. 140” (SFAS 166). SFAS 166 removes the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity from SFAS No. 140, “Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets” (SFAS 140), and removes the exception from applying FASB Interpretation No. 46 (revised December 2003), “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities,” to qualifying special-purpose entities. SFAS 166 clarifies that the objective of paragraph 9 of SFAS 140 is to determine whether a transferor and all of the entities included in the transferor’s financial statements being presented have surrendered control over transferred financial assets. This determination must consider the transferor’s continuing involvement in the transferred financial asset, including all arrangements or agreements made contemporaneously with, or in contemplation of, the transfer, even if they were not entered into at the time of the transfer. SFAS 166 modifies the financial-components approach used in SFAS 140 and limits the circumstances in which a financial asset, or portion of a financial asset, should be derecognized when the transferor has not transferred the entire financial asset to an entity that is not consolidated with the transferor in the financial statements being presented and/or when the transferor has continuing involvement. The special provisions of SFAS 140 and SFAS No. 65, “Accounting for Certain Mortgage Banking Activities” (SFAS 65), for guaranteed mortgage securitizations are removed to require those securitizations to be treated the same as any other transfer of financial assets within the scope of SFAS 140, as amended by this SFAS 166. If the transfer does not meet the requirements for sale accounting, the securitized mortgage loans should continue to be classified as loans in the transferor’s statement of financial position. SFAS 166 requires that a transferor recognize and initially measure at fair value all assets obtained (including a transferor’s beneficial interest) and liabilities incurred as a result of a transfer of financial assets accounted for as a sale. Enhanced disclosures are required to provide financial statement users with greater transparency about transfers of financial assets and a transferor’s continuing involvement with transferred financial assets. The provisions of this statement are effective as of the beginning of each reporting entity’s first annual reporting period that begins after November 15, 2009, for interim periods within that first annual reporting period, and for interim and annual reporting periods thereafter. Early application is prohibited. Synovus is currently evaluating the impact of SFAS 166, but does not presently expect that the provisions of SFAS 166 will have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 167, “Amendments to FASB Interpretation No. 46(R)” (SFAS 167). The FASB expects SFAS 167 to improve financial reporting by enterprises involved with variable interest entities. The FASB undertook this project to address (1) the effects on certain provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 46 (revised December 2003), “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities” (FIN 46), as a result of the elimination of the qualifying special-purpose entity concept in FASB 166, and (2) constituent concerns about the application of certain key provisions of Interpretation 46(R), including those in which the accounting and disclosures under FIN 46 do not always provide timely and useful information about an enterprise’s involvement in a variable interest entity. SFAS 167 is effective as of the beginning of each reporting entity’s first annual reporting period that begins after November 15,

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2009, for interim periods within that first annual reporting period, and for interim and annual reporting periods thereafter. Earlier application is prohibited. Synovus does not expect that the provisions of SFAS 167 will have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 168, “The FASB Accounting Standards CodificationÔ and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, a replacement of FASB Statement No. 162” (SFAS 168). The FASB Accounting Standards CodificationÔ (Codification) will become the source of authoritative U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) recognized by the FASB to be applied by nongovernmental entities. Rules and interpretive releases of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under authority of federal securities laws are also sources of authoritative GAAP for SEC registrants. On the effective date of this Statement, the Codification will supersede all then-existing non-SEC accounting and reporting standards. All other nongrandfathered non-SEC accounting literature not included in the Codification will become nonauthoritative. SFAS 168 is effective for financial statements issued for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. Synovus does not expect that the provisions of SFAS 168 will have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

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Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Presentation of the tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio and the tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets ratio, core deposits, pre-tax pre-credit costs income, and fundamental non-interest expense are non-Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (non-GAAP) financial measures. The most comparable GAAP measures are the equity to total assets ratio, total deposits, pre-tax income (loss), and total non-interest expense. The following table illustrates the method of calculating these non-GAAP financial measures:
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
                         
  June 30,     December 31,     June 30,  
(dollars in thousands)   2009     2008     2008  
 
                       
Total risk-weighted assets
  $ 30,037,167       32,106,501       32,455,002  
 
                       
Total assets
  $ 34,349,670       35,786,270       34,227,301  
Goodwill
    (39,280 )     (39,521 )     (492,138 )
Other intangible assets, net
    (18,914 )     (21,266 )     (24,860 )
 
                 
Tangible assets
  $ 34,291,476       35,725,483       33,710,303  
 
                 
 
                       
Total equity
  $ 3,055,163       3,819,507       3,452,683  
Goodwill
    (39,280 )     (39,521 )     (492,138 )
Other intangible assets, net
    (18,914 )     (21,266 )     (24,860 )
Cumulative perpetual preferred stock
    (923,855 )     (919,635 )      
 
                 
Tangible common equity
  $ 2,073,114       2,839,085       2,935,685  
 
                 
 
                       
Tangible common equity to tangible assets
    6.05 %     7.95       8.71  
Tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets
    6.90 %     8.84       9.05  
 
                       
Total deposits
  $ 27,423,814       28,617,179       26,028,352  
National market brokered deposits
    (4,994,641 )     (6,338,079 )     (4,587,302 )
 
                 
Core deposits
  $ 22,429,173       22,279,100       21,441,050  
 
                 
                                 
    Six Months Ended     Three Months Ended  
    June 30,     June 30,  
    June 30,     June 30,     June 30,     June 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
Income (loss) before income taxes
  $ (885,201 )     147,742       (663,396 )     21,539  
Add: Provision for losses on loans
    921,963       184,665       631,526       93,616  
Add: Other credit costs (1)
    230,585       38,828       176,308       29,686  
Add: Goodwill impairment
          27,000             27,000  
Add: Restructuring costs
    6,755       4,251       397       4,251  
Add (Subtract) Visa litigation settlement expense (recovery)
          (17,430 )            
 
                       
Pre-tax pre-credit costs income
  $ 274,102       385,056       144,835       176,092  
 
                       
 
                               
Total non-interest expense
  $ 659,674       467,338       396,316       265,964  
Other credit costs
    (230,585 )     (38,829 )     (176,308 )     (29,686 )
FDIC insurance expense
    (40,585 )     (9,242 )     (28,915 )     (4,743 )
Restructuring charges
    (6,755 )     (4,251 )     (397 )     (4,251 )
Visa litigation recovery
          17,430              
Goodwill impairment expense
          (27,000 )           (27,000 )
 
                       
Fundamental non-interest expense
  $ 381,749       405,446       190,696       200,284  
 
                       

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Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
                                 
    Six Months Ended     Three Months Ended  
    June 30,     June 30,  
  June 30,     June 30,     June 30,     June 30,  
(dollars in thousands)   2009     2008     2009     2008  
 
                               
Other credit costs:
                               
Foreclosed real estate expenses
  $ 218,734       21,558       172,404       13,677  
Loss on sale of impaired loans
    1,095       9,944       1,160       9,944  
Reserve for unfunded commitments(1)
    (3,423 )     4,067       (622 )     4,067  
Reserve for customer interest rate swap agreements(1)
    8,755             833        
Loan collection expenses(1)
    4,309       2,832       2,159       1,648  
Appraisal and recording expenses(1)
    1,115       428       374       350  
 
                       
Total other credit costs
  $ 230,585       38,829       176,308       29,686  
 
                       
 
(1)   Components of other operating expenses on the consolidated statements of income.
Management uses these non-GAAP financial measures to assess the performance of Synovus’ core business and the strength of its capital position. Synovus believes that the above non-GAAP financial measures provide meaningful information to assist investors in evaluating Synovus’ operating results, financial strength, and capitalization. The non-GAAP measures should be considered as (a) additional views of the way Synovus’ financial measures are affected by significant charges for credit costs and goodwill impairment, and (b) additional views of the strength of Synovus’ tangible capitalization using the non-GAAP financial ratios, tangible common equity to tangible assets and tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets. Total risk-weighted assets is a required measure used by banks and financial institutions in reporting regulatory capital and regulatory capital ratios to Federal and state regulatory agencies. Tangible common equity to tangible assets and tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets are non-GAAP financial measures utilized by many investors and investment analysts to evaluate the financial strength and capitalization of banks and financial institutions. Core deposits is a measure used by management and investment analysts to evaluate organic growth of deposits and the quality of deposits as a funding source. Pre-tax pre-credit costs income is a measure used by management to evaluate core operating results exclusive of credit costs as well as certain non-core expenses such as goodwill impairment charges, restructuring charges, and Visa litigation expense (benefit). Fundamental non-interest expense is a measure utilized by management to measure the success of expense management initiatives focused on reducing recurring controllable operating costs.

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ITEM 3 — QUANTITATIVE AND
QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT
MARKET RISK
Interest rate risk is the primary market risk to which Synovus is potentially exposed. Synovus measures its sensitivity to changes in market interest rates through the use of a simulation model. Synovus uses this simulation model to determine a baseline net interest income forecast and the sensitivity of this forecast to changes in interest rates. These simulations include all of Synovus’ earning assets, liabilities, and derivative instruments. Forecasted balance sheet changes, primarily reflecting loan and deposit growth forecasts, are included in the periods modeled. Anticipated deposit mix changes in each interest rate scenario are also included in the periods modeled.
Synovus has modeled its baseline net interest income forecast assuming a flat interest rate environment with the federal funds rate at the Federal Reserve’s current targeted range of 0% to .25%. Due to short-term interest rates being at or near 0% at this time, only rising rate scenarios have been modeled. Synovus has modeled the impact of a gradual increase in short-term rates of 100 and 200 basis points to determine the sensitivity of net interest income for the next twelve months. As of the end of the second quarter, the interest rate sensitivity of Synovus has not significantly changed as compared to December 31, 2008. Synovus continues to maintain a moderately asset sensitive position which would be expected to benefit net interest income in a rising interest rate environment. Several factors could serve to diminish this asset sensitivity, the primary of which would be an increase in the level of deposit pricing competition. The following table represents the estimated sensitivity of net interest income to these changes in short term interest rates at June 30, 2009, with comparable information for December 31, 2008.
         
    Estimated % Change in Net Interest Income
Change in Short-Term   as Compared to Unchanged Rates
Interest Rates   (for the next twelve months)
(in basis points)   June 30, 2009   December 31, 2008
+ 200   1.7%   3.9%
+ 100   0.8%   0.9%
While these estimates are reflective of the general interest rate sensitivity of Synovus, local market conditions and their impact on loan and deposit pricing would be expected to have a significant impact on the realized level of net interest income. Actual realized balance sheet growth and mix would also impact the realized level of net interest income. Synovus also considers the interest rate sensitivity of non-interest income, primarily deposit account analysis fees, mortgage banking income, and financial management services income, in determining the appropriate net interest income sensitivity positioning.

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ITEM 4 — CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
We have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report as required by Rule 13a-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. This evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer. Based on this evaluation, these officers have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in timely alerting them to material information relating to Synovus (including its consolidated subsidiaries) required to be included in our periodic SEC filings. No change in Synovus’ internal control over financial reporting occurred during the period covered by this report that materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II — OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1 — LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Synovus and its subsidiaries are subject to various legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of its business. In the ordinary course of business, Synovus and its subsidiaries are also subject to regulatory examinations, information gathering requests, inquiries and investigations. Synovus establishes accruals for litigation and regulatory matters when those matters present loss contingencies that Synovus determines to be both probable and reasonably estimable. In the pending regulatory matter described below, loss contingencies are not reasonably estimable in the view of management, and, accordingly, a reserve has not been established for this matter. Based on current knowledge, advice of counsel and available insurance coverage, management does not believe that the eventual outcome of pending litigation and/or regulatory matters, including the pending regulatory matters described below, will have a material adverse effect on Synovus’ consolidated financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. However, in the event of unexpected future developments, it is possible that the ultimate resolution of these matters, if unfavorable, may be material to Synovus’ results of operations for any particular period.
CompuCredit Litigation
As previously disclosed, the FDIC conducted an investigation of the policies, practices and procedures used by Columbus Bank and Trust Company (CB&T), a wholly owned banking subsidiary of Synovus Financial Corp. (Synovus), in connection with the credit card programs offered pursuant to its Affinity Agreement with CompuCredit Corporation (CompuCredit). CB&T issues credit cards that are marketed and serviced by CompuCredit pursuant to the Affinity Agreement. A provision of the Affinity Agreement generally requires CompuCredit to indemnify CB&T for losses incurred as a result of the failure of credit card programs offered pursuant to the Affinity Agreement to comply with applicable law. Synovus is subject to a per event 10% share of any such loss, but Synovus’ 10% payment obligation is limited to a cumulative total of $2 million for all losses incurred.
On June 9, 2008, the FDIC and CB&T entered into a settlement related to this investigation. CB&T did not admit or deny any alleged violations of law or regulations or any unsafe and unsound banking practices in connection with the settlement. As a part of the settlement, CB&T and the FDIC entered into a Cease and Desist Order and Order to Pay whereby CB&T agreed to: (1) pay a civil money penalty in the amount of $2.4 million; (2) institute certain changes to CB&T’s policies, practices and procedures in connection with credit card programs; (3) continue to implement its compliance plan to maintain a sound risk-based compliance management system and to modify them, if necessary, to comply with the Order; and (4) maintain its previously established Director Compliance Committee to oversee compliance with the Order. CB&T has paid the civil money penalty, and that payment is not subject to the indemnification provisions of the Affinity Agreement described above.
CB&T and the FDIC also entered into an Order for Restitution pursuant to which CB&T agreed to establish and maintain an account in the amount of $7.5 million to ensure the availability of restitution with respect to categories of consumers, specified by the FDIC, who activated Aspire credit card accounts issued pursuant to the Affinity Agreement on or before May 31, 2005. The FDIC may require the account to be applied if, and to the extent that, CompuCredit defaults, in whole or in part, on its obligation to pay restitution to any consumers required under the settlement agreements CompuCredit entered into with the FDIC and the Federal Trade

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Commission (FTC) on December 19, 2008. Those settlement agreements require CompuCredit to credit approximately $114 million to certain customer accounts that were opened between 2001 and 2005 and subsequently charged off or were closed with no purchase activity. CompuCredit has stated that this restitution involves mostly non-cash credits — in effect, reversals of amounts for which payments were never received. In addition, CompuCredit has stated that cash refunds to consumers are estimated to be approximately $3.7 million. This $7.5 million account represents a contingent liability of CB&T. At June 30, 2009, CB&T has not recorded a liability for this contingency.
Any amounts paid from the restitution account are expected to be subject to the indemnification provisions of the Affinity Agreement described above. Synovus does not currently expect that the settlement will have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
On May 23, 2008, CompuCredit and its wholly owned subsidiary, CompuCredit Acquisition Corporation, sued CB&T and Synovus in the State Court of Fulton County, Georgia, alleging breach of contract with respect to the Affinity Agreement. This case has subsequently been transferred to Georgia Superior Court, CompuCredit Corp,. v. Columbus Bank and Trust Co. , Case No. 08-CV-157010 (Ga. Super Ct.) (the “Superior Court Litigation”). CompuCredit seeks compensatory and general damages in an unspecified amount, a full accounting of the shares received by CB&T and Synovus in connection with the MasterCard and Visa initial public offerings and remittance of certain of those shares to CompuCredit, and the transfer of accounts under the Affinity Agreement to a third-party. CB&T and Synovus intend to vigorously defend themselves against these allegations. Based on current knowledge and advice of counsel, management does not believe that the eventual outcome of this case will have a material adverse effect on Synovus’ consolidated financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. It is possible, however, that in the event of unexpected future developments the ultimate resolution of this matter, if unfavorable, may be material to Synovus’ results of operations for any particular period.
On October 24, 2008, a putative class action lawsuit was filed against CompuCredit and CB&T in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, Greenwood v. CompuCredit, et. al., Case No. 4:08-cv-04878 (CW) (“Greenwood”), alleging that the solicitations used in connection with the credit card programs offered pursuant to the Affinity Agreement violated the Credit Repair Organization Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1679 (“CROA”), and the California Unfair Competition Law, Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17200. CB&T intends to vigorously defend itself against these allegations. On January 22, 2009, the court in the Superior Court Litigation ruled that CompuCredit must pay the reasonable attorneys’ fees incurred by CB&T in connection with the Greenwood case pursuant to the indemnification provision of the Affinity Agreement described above. Any losses that CB&T incurs in connection with Greenwood are also expected to be subject to the indemnification provisions of the Affinity Agreement described above. Based on current knowledge and advice of counsel, management does not believe that the eventual outcome of this case will have a material adverse effect on Synovus’ consolidated financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Securities Class Action Litigation
On July 7, 2009, the City of Pompano Beach General Employees’ Retirement System filed suit against Synovus, and certain of Synovus’ current and former officers, in the United States District Court, Northern District of Georgia (Civil Action File No. 1 09-CV-1811) (the “Securities Class Action”) alleging, among other things, that Synovus and the named individual

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defendants misrepresented or failed to disclose material facts that artificially inflated Synovus’ stock price in violation of the federal securities laws. The plaintiffs in the Securities Class Action seek damages in an unspecified amount.
Synovus and the individual named defendants collectively intend to vigorously defend themselves against these allegations. Because the Securities Class Action was recently filed and there are significant uncertainties involved in any potential class action litigation, based upon information that presently is available to it, Synovus’ management team is unable to predict the outcome of the purported Securities Class Action and cannot currently reasonably determine the probability of a material adverse result or reasonably estimate a range of potential exposure, if any. Although the ultimate outcome of this lawsuit cannot be ascertained at this time, based upon information that presently is available to it, Synovus’ management team presently does not believe that the Securities Class Action, when resolved, will have a material adverse effect on Synovus’ consolidated financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

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ITEM 1A — RISK FACTORS
In addition to the other information set forth in this Report, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part I under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 and in Part II under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2009, which could materially affect our business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows or future results. The risks described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q are not the only risks facing Synovus. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows or future results.
Other than the risk factors set forth below, there were no material changes during the period covered by this Report to the risk factors previously disclosed in the Synovus’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 and Synovus’ Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2009.
Further adverse changes in our credit rating could increase the cost of our funding from the capital markets.
During the second quarter of 2009, Moody’s Investors Service, Standard and Poor’s Ratings Services and Fitch Ratings downgraded Synovus’ long term debt to below investment grade. The ratings agencies regularly evaluate Synovus and certain of its subsidiary banks, and their ratings of long-term debt are based on a number of factors, including our financial strength as well as factors not entirely within our control, including conditions affecting the financial services industry generally. In light of the continuing difficulties in the financial services industry and the housing and financial markets, there can be no assurance that Synovus will not receive additional adverse changes in its ratings, which could adversely affect the cost and other terms upon which Synovus is able to obtain funding.
Future losses may result in an additional valuation allowance to our deferred tax assets.
During the quarter ended June 30, 2009, Synovus incurred a charge of approximately $173 million to record an increase in its valuation allowance for deferred tax assets. See Note 14 — Income Taxes to the Unaudited Financial Statements in Part 1 of this report. Additional future losses will require Synovus to recognize an additional valuation allowance, which will adversely impact its results of operations.
We are heavily regulated by federal and state agencies; changes in laws and regulations or failures to comply with such laws and regulations may adversely affect our operations and our financial results.
Synovus and our subsidiary banks, and many of our nonbank subsidiaries, are heavily regulated at the federal and state levels. This regulation is designed primarily to protect depositors, federal deposit insurance funds and the banking system as a whole, not shareholders. Congress and state legislatures and federal and state regulatory agencies continually review banking laws, regulations and policies for possible changes. Changes to statutes, regulations or regulatory policies, including interpretation and implementation of statutes, regulations or policies, including EESA, TARP, the Financial Stability Plan, and the ARRA could affect us in substantial and unpredictable ways, including limiting the types of financial services and products we may offer and/or increasing the ability of nonbanks to offer competing financial

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services and products. While we cannot predict the regulatory changes that may be borne out of the current economic crisis, and we cannot predict whether we will become subject to increased regulatory scrutiny by any of these regulatory agencies, any regulatory changes or scrutiny could be expensive for us to address and/or could result in our changing the way that we do business.
Furthermore, various federal and state bodies regulate and supervise our nonbank subsidiaries, including our brokerage, investment advisory, insurance agency and processing operations. These include, but are not limited to, the SEC, FINRA, federal and state banking regulators and various state regulators of insurance and brokerage activities. Federal and state regulators have the ability to impose substantial sanctions, restrictions and requirements on our banking and nonbanking subsidiaries if they determine, upon examination or otherwise, violations of laws with which the Synovus or its subsidiaries must comply, or weaknesses or failures with respect to general standards of safety and soundness. Such enforcement may be formal or informal and can include directors’ resolutions, memoranda of understanding, cease and desist orders, civil money penalties and termination of deposit insurance and bank closures. Enforcement actions may be taken regardless of the capital level of the institution. In particular, institutions that are not sufficiently capitalized in accordance with regulatory standards may also face capital directives or prompt corrective action. Enforcement actions may require certain corrective steps (including staff additions or changes), impose limits on activities (such as lending, deposit taking, acquisitions or branching), prescribe lending parameters (such as loan types, volumes and terms) and require additional capital to be raised, any of which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. The imposition of regulatory sanctions, including monetary penalties, may have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations, and damage to our reputation, and loss of our financial services holding company status. In addition, compliance with any such action could distract management’s attention from our operations, cause us to incur significant expenses, restrict us from engaging in potentially profitable activities, and limit our ability to raise capital.
We may be required to raise additional Tier 1 capital to comply with new regulatory standards adopted following the release of the results of the Supervisory Capital Assessment Program.
On May 7, 2009, the Federal Reserve Board announced the results of the Supervisory Capital Assessment Program (“SCAP”), commonly referred to as the “stress test,” of the capital needs through the end of 2010 of the nineteen largest U.S. bank holding companies. As a result of the SCAP, a number of the bank holding companies reviewed as part of the SCAP were required, or voluntarily chose, to raise additional Tier 1 capital, particularly common equity. Following the release of the SCAP results, bank holding companies that were not part of the SCAP, such as Synovus, have faced significant speculation as to the results of the stress tests performed on the largest 19 financial institutions and the hypothetical results if the stress test methodology if it was applied to other financial institutions, including regional banks smaller in size. Under the SCAP methodology, financial institutions were required to maintain Tier 1 common equity at or above 4% of risk weighted assets. This additional common equity is intended to serve as a buffer against higher losses than generally expected, and allow such bank holding companies to remain well capitalized and able to lend to creditworthy borrowers should such losses materialize. Synovus’ management conducted an analysis of Synovus’ capital position using certain aspects of the SCAP methodology but applying Synovus’ own assumptions relating to certain economic factors and credit conditions. Based on this analysis, management presently believes that Synovus would be able to comply with this 4% regulatory capital threshold using internally generated sources of capital. However, if economic conditions or other factors worsen to a greater degree than the assumptions underlying Synovus’ internal assessment of its capital position, or if there are opportunities for Synovus to undertake one or more transactions

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that potentially would be accretive to Synovus’ capital and/or liquidity position, then Synovus may seek additional capital from external sources, or enter into such other transactions.
We may be unable to receive dividends from our subsidiary banks, and we may be required to contribute capital to those banks, which could adversely affect our liquidity and cause us to raise capital on terms that are unfavorable to us.
The primary source of liquidity for Synovus Financial Corp., as the holding company, is dividends from subsidiary banks, which are governed by certain rules and regulations of various state and federal banking regulatory agencies. Dividends from subsidiaries in 2009 will be significantly lower than those received in previous years. In addition, should Synovus’ subsidiaries require additional capital, either due to asset growth or realized losses, Synovus may be required to provide capital infusions to these subsidiaries. During 2009, Synovus has been required to provide capital to certain subsidiaries and expects to continue to do so in the second half of 2009. In addition, current market conditions and required dividend payments on the Series A Preferred Stock will likely continue to put additional pressure on Synovus’ liquidity position. If these trends continue, Synovus may be forced to raise additional capital. Given the weakened economy, current market conditions and Synovus’ recent financial performance and related credit rating downgrades, Synovus may be unable to raise obtain new borrowings or issue equity on favorable terms, if at all. In addition, the terms of a potential equity offering would result in dilution to our existing shareholders. Also, Synovus may be unable to raise the amount of capital that it desires due to the limited number of shares of its common stock that currently remain authorized and available for issuances under its organizational documents.
We are a defendant in a purported federal securities class action lawsuit, and, if we are unable to prevail in this matter, then our business, operating results and financial condition would suffer.
On July 7, 2009, the City of Pompano Beach General Employees’ Retirement System filed suit against us in the United States District Court, Northern District of Georgia against Synovus and certain current and former executive officers alleging, among other things, that Synovus and the named defendants misrepresented or failed to disclose material facts that artificially inflated our stock price in violation of the federal securities laws. The plaintiffs in the suit seek damages in an unspecified amount. Synovus cannot at this time predict the outcome of this litigation or reasonably determine the probability of a material adverse result or reasonably estimate range of potential exposure, if any, that this litigation might have on us, our business, our financial condition or our results of operations, although such effects could be materially adverse. In addition, in the future, Synovus may need to record litigation reserves in respect of this litigation. Further, regardless of how this litigation proceeds, it could divert Synovus’ management’s attention and other resources away from operations and other affairs.

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ITEM 2 — UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY
SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
In prior periods, Synovus received previously owned shares of its common stock in payment of the exercise price of stock options and shares withheld to cover taxes on vesting for non-vested shares granted. No shares of Synovus common stock were delivered during the three months ended June 30, 2009.

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ITEM 4 — SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
The annual shareholders’ meeting was held on April 23, 2009. Following is a summary of the proposals that were submitted to the shareholders for approval and a tabulation of the votes with respect to each proposal.
Proposal I
The proposal was to elect as directors the eighteen nominees named in the proxy statement for Synovus’ 2009 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.
                         
Nominee   Votes For   Votes Against   Abstentions
Daniel P. Amos
    1,814,157,560       854,431,424       41,425,754  
Richard E. Anthony
    2,599,422,333       98,814,098       11,778,307  
James H. Blanchard
    2,621,889,813       80,627,779       7,497,136  
Richard Y. Bradley
    2,468,010,074       228,977,851       13,026,804  
Frank W. Brumley
    2,040,216,382       656,617,107       13,181,239  
Elizabeth W. Camp
    2,624,873,573       72,718,095       12,423,071  
Gardiner W. Garrard, Jr.
    2,580,815,532       116,019,913       13,179,294  
T. Michael Goodrich
    2,619,161,696       78,055,258       12,797,775  
Frederick L. Green, III
    2,616,021,975       80,503,762       13,489,001  
V. Nathaniel Hansford
    2,611,900,881       85,100,502       13,013,245  
Mason H. Lampton
    2,615,251,533       82,343,542       12,419,654  
Elizabeth C. Ogie
    2,623,781,881       74,175,320       12,057,527  
H. Lynn Page
    2,627,784,443       75,967,359       6,262,937  
J. Neal Purcell
    2,626,574,325       70,213,179       13,227,234  
Melvin T. Stith
    2,622,542,555       74,269,480       13,202,694  
Philip W. Tomlinson
    2,581,699,251       115,684,839       12,630,628  
William B. Turner, Jr.
    2,588,197,799       110,275,320       11,541,610  
James D. Yancey
    2,624,892,749       73,882,270       11,239,710  
Proposal II
The proposal was to ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP as Synovus’ independent auditor for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009.
                         
    Votes For   Votes Against   Abstentions
Votes
    2,644,624,251       50,337,861       15,052,637  
Proposal III
The proposal was to approve the compensation of Synovus’ named executive officers as determined by the Compensation Committee.
                         
    Votes For   Votes Against   Abstentions
Votes
    2,518,781,279       171,536,831       19,696,629  

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ITEM 6 — EXHIBITS
     
(a) Exhibits   Description
 
   
3.1
  Articles of Incorporation of Synovus, as amended, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of Synovus’ Quarterly Report on Form 10- Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2006, as filed with the SEC on May 10, 2006
 
   
3.2
  Articles of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Synovus incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of Synovus’ Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 17, 2008, as filed with the SEC on December 17, 2008
 
   
3.3
  Articles of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Synovus establishing the terms of the Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of Synovus’ Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 17, 2008, as filed with the SEC on December 22, 2008
 
   
3.4
  Articles of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Synovus establishing the terms of the Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of Synovus’ Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 17, 2008, as filed with the SEC on December 22, 2008
 
   
3.5
  Bylaws, as amended, of Synovus, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of Synovus’ Current Report on Form 8-K date December 17, 2008, as filed with the SEC on December 17, 2008
 
   
10.1
  Synovus Financial Corp. Executive Salary Continuation Death Benefit Plan dated August 1, 2009
 
   
10.2
  Summary of Board of Directors Compensation, as amended
 
   
12.1
  Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
 
   
31.1
  Certification of Chief Executive Officer
 
   
31.2
  Certification of Chief Financial Officer
 
   
32
  Certification of Periodic Report

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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
         
  SYNOVUS FINANCIAL CORP.
 
 
Date: August 10, 2009  BY:   /s/ Thomas J. Prescott    
    Thomas J. Prescott   
    Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer   

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INDEX TO EXHIBITS
     
Exhibit Number   Description
 
   
3.1
  Articles of Incorporation of Synovus, as amended, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of Synovus’ Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2006, as filed with the SEC on May 10, 2006
 
   
3.2
  Articles of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Synovus incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of Synovus’ Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 17, 2008, as filed with the SEC on December 17, 2008
 
   
3.3
  Articles of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Synovus establishing the terms of the Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of Synovus’ Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 17, 2008, as filed with the SEC on December 22, 2008
 
   
3.4
  Articles of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Synovus establishing the terms of the Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of Synovus’ Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 17, 2008, as filed with the SEC on December 22, 2008
 
   
3.5
  Bylaws, as amended, of Synovus, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of Synovus’ Current Report on Form 8-K date December 17, 2008, as filed with the SEC on December 17, 2008
 
   
10.1
  Synovus Financial Corp. Executive Salary Continuation Death Benefit Plan dated August 5, 2009
 
   
10.2
  Summary of Board of Directors Compensation, as amended
 
   
12.1
  Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
 
   
31.1
  Certification of Chief Executive Officer
 
   
31.2
  Certification of Chief Financial Officer
 
   
32
  Certification of Periodic Report

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