OREANDA-NEWS. BB&T Corporation (NYSE: BBT) today reported quarterly earnings for the third quarter of 2015. Net income available to common shareholders was $492 million, compared to $512 million earned in the third quarter of 2014. Earnings per diluted common share totaled $0.64 for the quarter, compared to $0.70 for the third quarter of last year. Excluding merger-related and restructuring charges, net income available to common shareholders was $539 million, up 4.5% compared to $516 million earned in the third quarter of 2014. Adjusted earnings per diluted share was $0.70 compared to $0.71 in the earlier quarter.

"We are pleased to report strong results for the quarter, driven by healthy organic loan and deposit growth and the acquisition of Susquehanna Bancshares," said Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Kelly S. King. "We also announced an agreement to acquire National Penn, of Allentown, Pennsylvania. These acquisitions will significantly expand our presence in the mid-Atlantic region and vault us to #4 deposit market share in Pennsylvania.

"I am excited to share that the successful acquisition of Susquehanna, coupled with organic balance sheet growth, has pushed us above $200 billion in assets, which is a significant milestone.

"We had a strong overall quarter with higher revenues and improved net interest margin, continued excellent results in asset quality, and strong capital and liquidity," said King. "Revenues were $2.5 billion, up $155 million, or 6.6% compared to the third quarter of 2014. The Susquehanna acquisition contributed approximately $150 million in revenues since August 1, and we look forward to continued growth within our newly expanded footprint."