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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies | 12 Months Ended
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Dec. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract] |
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies | Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Business Operations Synovus provides commercial and consumer banking in addition to a full suite of specialized products and services including private banking, treasury management, wealth management, mortgage services, premium finance, asset-based lending, structured lending, and international banking to its clients through its wholly-owned subsidiary bank, Synovus Bank, primarily in offices located throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee. In addition to our banking operations, we also provide various other financial planning and investment advisory services to our clients through direct and indirect wholly-owned non-bank subsidiaries, including: Synovus Securities, headquartered in Columbus, Georgia, which specializes in professional portfolio management for fixed-income securities, investment banking, the execution of securities transactions as a broker/dealer, and the provision of individual investment advice on equity and other securities; and Synovus Trust, headquartered in Columbus, Georgia, which provides trust, asset management, and financial planning services. Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements of Synovus include the accounts of the Parent Company and its consolidated subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The accounting and financial reporting policies of Synovus are in accordance with GAAP and conform to the accounting and reporting guidelines prescribed by bank regulatory authorities. Prior period consolidated financial statements are reclassified whenever necessary to conform to the current period presentation. No reclassifications of prior period balances were material to the consolidated financial statements unless specifically disclosed. The Company’s consolidated financial statements include all entities in which the Company has a controlling financial interest. A VIE for which Synovus or a subsidiary has been determined to be the primary beneficiary is also consolidated. The determination of whether a controlling financial interest exists is based on whether a single party has both the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance and the obligation to absorb the losses of the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. Investments in VIEs where Synovus is not the primary beneficiary are accounted for using either the proportional amortization method or equity method of accounting. The Company uses the hypothetical liquidation at book value (HLBV) method for equity investments when the liquidation rights and priorities as defined by an equity investment agreement differ from what is reflected by the underlying percentage ownership interests. Investments in VIEs are included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets, and the Company's proportionate share of income or loss is included as either a component of income tax expense (proportional amortization method) or non-interest income (equity method). The maximum potential exposure to losses relative to investments in VIEs is generally limited to the sum of the outstanding balance, future funding commitments and any related loans to the entity. The assessment of whether or not the Company has a controlling interest (i.e., the primary beneficiary) in a VIE is performed on an on-going basis. Refer to "Part II - Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data - Note 14 - Commitments and Contingencies" of this Report for additional details regarding Synovus' involvement with VIEs. Immaterial Correction of Prior Period Financial Statements During the third quarter of 2021, the Company made corrections to proceeds and purchases of investment securities available for sale by adjusting for the impact of timing differences associated with unsettled trades that crossed certain reporting periods. The Company concluded that the corrections were not material to any prior or current periods from a combined qualitative and quantitative perspective. A summary of corrections is presented below.
Corrected Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows |  |
(unaudited) |  |  |  |  |
| Year Ended December 31, 2020
(in thousands) | As Reported |  | Adjustment |  | As Corrected
Investing Activities |  |  |  |  |
Proceeds from sales of investment securities available for sale | $ | 4,054,670 |  |  | $ | (1,404,984) |  |  | $ | 2,649,686 |
Purchases of investment securities available for sale | (7,441,163) |  |  | 1,404,984 |  |  | (6,036,179) |
Net cash used in investing activities | $ | 2,352,973 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 2,352,973 |
Use of Estimates In preparing the consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP, 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 consolidated balance sheets and the reported amounts of revenue and expense 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 ACL, estimates of fair value, income taxes, and contingent liabilities. Business Combinations Assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations are recorded at their acquisition date fair values, except as provided for by the applicable accounting guidance, with any excess recorded as goodwill. The results of operations of the acquired company are combined with Synovus’ results from the acquisition date forward. In accordance with ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations, the Company generally records provisional amounts at the time of acquisition based on the information available to the Company. The provisional estimates of fair values may be adjusted for a period of up to one year (“measurement period”) from the date of acquisition if new information is obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date that, if known, would have affected the measurement of the amounts recognized as of that date. Subsequent to the acquisition date, adjustments recorded during the measurement period are recognized in the current reporting period. Acquisition costs are expensed when incurred. Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and due from banks as well as interest-bearing funds with Federal Reserve Bank, interest earning deposits with banks, and federal funds sold and securities purchased under resale agreements, which are inclusive of any restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents. On March 15, 2020, the Federal Reserve Board announced that, effective March 26, 2020, it would reduce reserve requirement ratios to zero percent for all depository institutions. Cash and cash equivalents included $65.1 million at December 31, 2021 and $158.7 million at December 31, 2020, which were pledged to collateralize certain derivative instruments and letters of credit. Investment Securities Available for Sale Investment securities available for sale are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses, net of the related tax effect, excluded from earnings and reported as a separate component of shareholders' equity within accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until realized. For investment securities available for sale in an unrealized loss position, if Synovus has an intention to sell the security, or it is more likely than not that the security will be required to be sold prior to recovery, the security is written down to its fair value. The write down is charged against the ACL with any additional impairment recorded in earnings. If the aforementioned criteria are not met, Synovus performs a quarterly assessment of its available for sale debt securities to determine if the decline in fair value of a security below its amortized cost is related to credit losses or other factors. Management cons iders the extent to which fair value is less than amortized cost, the issuer of the security, any changes to the rating of the security by a rating agency, and adverse conditions specifically related to the security, among other factors. In assessing whether credit-related impairment exists, the present value of cash flows expected to be collected from the security is compared to the security's amortized cos t. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the security's amortized cost basis, the difference is attributable to credit losses. For such differences, Synovus records an ACL with an offset to provision for credit losses. Synovus limits the ACL recorded to the amount the security's fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. Impairment losses related to other factors are recognized in other comprehensive income (loss). Interest income on securities available for sale is recorded on the accrual basis. Accrued interest on available for sale debt securities is excluded from the ACL determination and is recognized within other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Available for sale debt securities are placed on non-accrual status when we no longer expect to receive all contractual amounts due, which is generally at 90 days past due. Accrued interest receivable is reversed against interest income when a security is placed on non-accrual status. Accordingly, we do not recognize an allowance for credit loss against accrued interest receivable. Premiums and discounts are amortized or accreted over the life of the related security as an adjustment to yield using the effective interest method unless the premium is related to callable debt securities. For these securities, the amortization period is shortened to the earliest call date. Realized gains and losses for securities are included in investment securities gains (losses), net, on the consolidated statements of income and are derived using the specific identification method, on a trade date basis. Mortgage Loans Held for Sale and Mortgage Banking Income Mortgage Loans Held for Sale Mortgage loans held for sale are initially measured at fair value under the fair value option election with subsequent changes in fair value recognized in mortgage banking income on the consolidated statements of income. Mortgage Banking Income Mortgage banking income consists primarily of origination and ancillary fees on mortgage loans originated for sale, and gains and losses from the sale of those loans. Mortgage loans are sold servicing released, without recourse or continuing involvement, and meet ASC Topic 860, Transfers and Servicing criteria for sale accounting. Other Loans Held for Sale Other loans held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value. Loans Held for Investment and Interest Income Loans the Company has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future are reported at principal amounts outstanding less amounts charged off, net of deferred fees and costs, and purchase premium/discount. Interest income is recognized on a level yield basis. Non-accrual Loans Loans on which the accrual of interest has been discontinued are designated as non-accrual loans. Accrual of interest is discontinued on loans when reasonable doubt exists as to the full collection of interest or principal, or when loans become contractually past due for 90 days or more as to either interest or principal, in accordance with the terms of the loan agreement, unless they are both well-secured and in the process of collection. When a loan is placed on non-accrual status, previously accrued and uncollected interest is reversed as an adjustment to interest income on loans. Interest payments received on non-accrual loans are generally recorded as a reduction of principal. As payments are received on non-accruing loans, interest income can be recognized on a cash basis; however, there must be an expectation of full repayment of the remaining recorded principal balance. The remaining portion of this payment is recorded as a reduction to principal. Loans are generally returned to accruing status when they are brought fully current with respect to interest and principal and when, in the judgment of management, the loans are estimated to be fully collectible as to both principal and interest, and the borrower has sustained repayment performance under the terms of the loan agreement for a reasonable period of time (generally six months). Troubled Debt Restructurings When borrowers are experiencing financial difficulties, Synovus may, in order to assist the borrowers in repaying the principal and interest owed to Synovus, make certain modifications to the borrower's loan. All loan modifications, renewals, and refinances are evaluated for TDR classification. The ALL on a TDR is measured using the same method as all other loans held for investment, except that the original interest rate, and not the rate specified with the restructuring, is used to discount the expected cash flows. Concessions provided by Synovus in a TDR are generally made in order to assist borrowers so that debt service is not interrupted and to mitigate the potential for loan losses. A number of factors are reviewed when a loan is renewed, refinanced, or modified, including cash flows, collateral values, guarantees, and loan structures. Concessions are primarily in the form of providing a below market interest rate given the borrower's credit risk to assist the borrower in managing cash flows, an extension of the maturity of the loan generally for less than one year, or a period of time generally less than one year with a reduction of required principal and/or interest payments (e.g., interest only for a period of time). Insignificant periods of reduction of principal and/or interest payments, or short-term deferrals, are generally not considered to be financial concessions. Further, it is generally Synovus' practice not to defer principal and/or interest for more than twelve months. Non-accruing TDRs may generally be returned to accrual status if there has been a period of performance, usually at least a six-month sustained period of repayment performance in accordance with the agreement. In the fiscal year subsequent to a loan's initial reporting as a TDR, a TDR for a borrower who is no longer experiencing financial difficulty (as evidenced by a period of performance), which yields a market rate of interest at the time of a renewal, and for which no principal was forgiven, is no longer considered a TDR. Concentrations of Credit Risk A substantial portion of the loan portfolio is secured by real estate in markets located throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee. Accordingly, the ultimate collectability of a substantial portion of the loan portfolio is susceptible to changes in market conditions in these areas. Loan Origination Fees and Costs Loan origination fees and direct loan origination costs are deferred and amortized to net interest income over the life of the related loan or over the commitment period as a yield adjustment. Allowance for Credit Losses (ACL) On January 1, 2020, Synovus adopted ASU 2016-13 (and all subsequent ASUs on this topic, collectively, ASC 326), which replaced the existing incurred loss impairment guidance with an expected credit loss methodology (referred to as CECL). CECL requires management’s estimate of credit losses over the full remaining expected life of loans and other financial instruments and for Synovus, applies to loans, unfunded loan commitments, accrued interest receivable, and available for sale debt securities. Upon adoption, Synovus applied the modified retrospective approach and recorded an after-tax cumulative-effect adjustment to beginning retained earnings for non-PCD assets (formerly non-PCI assets) and unfunded commitments of $35.7 million. Additionally, an initial estimate of expected credit losses on PCD assets (formerly PCI or ASC 310-30) was recognized with an offset to the cost basis of the related loans of $62.2 million. As permitted by transition guidance, Synovus did not reassess whether PCI assets met the criteria of PCD assets as of the adoption date. The remaining non-credit discount (based on the adjusted amortized cost basis) will be accreted into interest income. Results for reporting periods after adoption are presented under ASC 326 while prior period amounts continue to be reported in accordance with previously applicable GAAP. The following table illustrates the impact of ASC 326 adoption:
| As of January 1, 2020
in thousands | Pre-ASC 326 Adoption |  | Impact of ASC 326 Adoption |  | As Reported under ASC 326
Assets |  |  |  |  |
Allowance for loan losses: |  |  |  |  |
Commercial and industrial | $ | 145,782 |  |  | $ | (2,310) |  |  | $ | 143,472 |
Commercial real estate | 67,430 |  |  | (651) |  |  | 66,779 |
Consumer | 68,190 |  |  | 85,955 |  |  | 154,145 |
Total allowance for loan losses | $ | 281,402 |  |  | $ | 82,994 |  |  | $ | 364,396 |
Liabilities |  |  |  |  |
Reserve for unfunded commitments | $ | 1,375 |  |  | $ | 27,440 |  |  | $ | 28,815 |
Allowance for credit losses | $ | 282,777 |  |  | $ | 110,434 |  |  | $ | 393,211 |
The following table illustrates the distribution of the ASC 326 adoption impact to loans and equity:
| As of January 1, 2020
in thousands | Pre-ASC 326 Adoption |  | Impact of ASC 326 Adoption |  | As Reported under ASC 326
Loans, net | $ | 36,881,048 |  |  | $ | (20,767) |  |  | $ | 36,860,281 |
Retained earnings | 1,068,327 |  |  | (35,721) |  |  | 1,032,606 |
Allowance for Loan Losses (ALL) The ALL on loans held for investment represents management's estimate of credit losses expected over the life of the loans included in Synovus' existing loans held for investment portfolio. Changes to the allowance are recorded through a provision for credit losses and reduced by loans charged-off, net of recoveries. Determining the appropriateness of the allowance is complex and requires judgment by management about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Accrued but uncollected interest is recorded in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. In general, the Company does not record an ACL for accrued interest receivables as allowable per ASC 326-20-30-5A as Synovus' non-accrual policies result in the timely write-off of accrued but uncollected interest. Credit loss measurement Synovus' loan loss estimation process includes procedures to appropriately consider the unique characteristics of its loan portfolio segments (C&I, CRE and consumer). These segments are further disaggregated into loan classes, the level at which credit quality is assessed and monitored (as described in the subsequent sections). The ALL is measured on a collective (pool) basis when similar risk characteristics exist. Loans are grouped based upon the nature of the loan type and are further segregated based upon the methods for risk assessment. Credit loss assumptions are primarily estimated using a DCF model applied to the aforementioned loan groupings. This model calculates an expected life-of-loan loss percentage for each loan category by considering the forecasted PD, which is the probability that a borrower will default, adjusted for relevant forecasted macroeconomic factors comprising multiple weighted scenarios representing different plausible outcomes, and LGD, which is the estimate of the amount of net loss in the event of default. Expected credit losses are estimated over the contractual term of the loan, adjusted for expected prepayments and curtailments when appropriate. Management's determination of the contract term excludes expected extensions, renewals, and modifications unless either of the following applies: there is a reasonable expectation at the reporting date that a TDR will be executed with an individual borrower, or an extension or renewal option is included in the contract at the reporting date that is not unconditionally cancellable by Synovus. To the extent the lives of the loans in the portfolio extend beyond the period for which a reasonable and supportable forecast can be made (which is two years for Synovus), the Company reverts, on a straight-line basis back to the historical rates over a one year period. Life-of-loan loss percentages may also be adjusted, as necessary, for certain quantitative and qualitative factors that in management's judgment are necessary to reflect losses expected in the portfolio. These adjustments address inherent limitations in the quantitative model including uncertainty and limitations, among others. The above reflects the ALL estimation process for most commercial and consumer sub-pools. In some cases, Synovus may apply other acceptable loss rate models to smaller sub-pools. Loans that do not share risk characteristics are individually evaluated on a loan by loan basis with specific reserves, if any, recorded as appropriate. Specific reserves are determined based on two methods: discounted cash flow based upon the loan's contractual effective interest rate or at the fair value of the collateral, less costs to sell if the loan is collateral-dependent. For individually evaluated loans, under the DCF method, resulting expected credit losses are recorded as a specific reserve with a charge-off for any portion of the expected credit loss that is determined not to be recoverable. The reserve is reassessed each quarter and adjusted as appropriate based on changes in estimated cash flows. Additionally, where guarantors are determined to be a source of repayment, an assessment of the guarantee is required. This guarantee assessment would include, but not be limited to, factors such as type and feature of the guarantee, consideration for the guarantor's financial strength and capacity to service the loan in combination with the guarantor's other financial obligations as well as the guarantor's willingness to assist in servicing the loan. For individually evaluated loans, if the loan is collateral-dependent, then the fair value of the loan's collateral, less estimated selling costs, is compared to the loan's carrying amount to determine impairment. Fair value is estimated using appraisals performed by a certified or licensed appraiser. Management also considers other factors or recent developments, such as changes in absorption rates or market conditions at the time of valuation, selling costs and anticipated sales values, taking into account management's plans for disposition, which could result in adjustments to the fair value estimates indicated in the appraisals. The assumptions used in determining the amount of the impairment are subject to significant judgment. Use of different assumptions, for example, changes in the fair value of the collateral or management's plans for disposition could have a significant impact on the amount of impairment. Purchased Loans with Credit Deterioration Purchased loans are evaluated upon acquisition in order to determine if the loan, or pool of loans, has experienced more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since origination or issuance. In the performance of this evaluation, Synovus considers migration of the credit quality of the loans at origination in comparison to the credit quality at acquisition. Purchased loans classified as PCD are recognized in accordance with ASC 326-20-30, whereby the amortized cost basis of the PCD asset is ‘grossed-up’ by the initial estimate of credit losses with an offset to the ALL. This acquisition date allowance has no income statement effect. Post-acquisition, any changes in estimates of expected credit losses are recorded through the provision for credit losses. Non-credit discounts or premiums are accreted or amortized, respectively into interest income using the interest method. Loans formerly accounted for as purchased credit-impaired in accordance with ASC 310-30 were automatically transitioned to PCD classification. The Company did not maintain ASC 310-30 pools. PCD loans were integrated into existing pool structures based upon the nature of the loan type and are further segregated based upon the individual loan risk ratings as noted above. The accounting treatment for purchased loans classified as non-PCD is the same as loans held for investment as detailed in the above section. Allowance for Credit Losses on Off-balance-sheet Credit Exposures Synovus maintains a separate ACL for off-balance-sheet credit exposures, including unfunded loan commitments, unless the associated obligation is unconditionally cancellable by the Company. This allowance is included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets with associated expense recognized as a component of the provision for credit losses on the consolidated statements of income. The reserve for off-balance-sheet credit exposures considers the likelihood that funding will occur and estimates the expected credit losses on resulting commitments expected to be funded over their estimated life using the estimated loss rates on loans held for investment. Commercial Loans - Risk Ratings Synovus utilizes two primary methods for risk assessment of the commercial loan portfolio: SRR Assessment and DRR Assessment. DRR is a statistical model approach to risk rating that includes a PD and a LGD. The SRR model is an expert judgment based model that results in a blended (i.e. single) rating. The single and dual risk ratings are based on the borrowers' credit risk profile, considering factors such as debt service history, current and estimated prospective cash flow information, collateral supporting the credit, source of repayment as well as other variables, as appropriate. Each loan is assigned a risk rating during its initial approval process. For SRR loans, this process begins with a loan rating recommendation from the loan officer responsible for originating the loan. Commercial SRR loans are graded on a 10-point scale and include classifications of special mention, substandard, doubtful, and loss consistent with bank regulatory classifications. The primary determinants of the risk ratings for commercial SRR loans are the reliability of the primary source of repayment and the borrower's expected performance (i.e., the likelihood that the borrower will be able to service its obligations in accordance with the terms). Expected performance is based upon a full analysis of the borrower's historical financial results, current financial strength and future prospects, which includes any external drivers. The DRR methodology is used for larger relationships within the C&I loan portfolio as well as certain IPRE loa ns. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, approximat ely 41% a nd 40% of total commercial loans were rated using the DRR methodology, respectively. The DRR includes sixteen PD categories. The loan rating (for both SRR and DRR loans) is subject to approvals from other members of management, regional credit and/or loan committees depending on the size of the loan and credit attributes. Loan ratings are regularly re-evaluated based upon annual scheduled credit reviews or on a more frequent basis if determined prudent by management. Additionally, an independent loan review function evaluates Synovus' risk rating processes on a continuous basis. Consumer Loans – Risk Ratings Consumer loans are subject to uniform lending policies and consist primarily of loans with strong borrower credit scores. Synovus makes consumer lending decisions based upon a number of key credit risk determinants including FICO scores as well as loan-to-value and debt-to-income ratios. Consumer loans are generally assigned a risk rating on a 9-point scale based on credit bureau scores, with a loan grade of 1 assigned as the lowest level of risk and a loan grade of 6 as the highest level of risk. No loans graded higher than 6 at origination are approved for funding. At 90-119 days past due, a loan grade of 7-substandard non-accrual is applied and at 120 days past due, the loan is generally downgraded to grade 9-loss or is charged-off. The consumer loan portfolio is sent on a quarterly basis to a consumer credit reporting agency for a refresh of clients' credit scores so that management can evaluate ongoing consistency or negative migration in the quality of the portfolio. Revolving lines of credit are reviewed for a material change in financial circumstances and, when appropriate, the line of credit may be suspended for further advances. FICO scores within the residential real estate portfolio have generally remained stable over the last several years. The Allowance for Loan Losses, for periods before 2020, was established as follows: a.Impaired loans were generally evaluated on a loan by loan basis with specific reserves, if any, recorded as appropriate. Specific reserves were determined based on ASC 310-10-35, which provided for measurement of a loan's impairment based on one of three methods: i) discounted cash flow based upon the loan's contractual effective interest rate, ii) at the loan's observable market price, or iii) at the fair value of the collateral, less costs to sell if the loan was collateral-dependent. b.For loans that were not considered impaired, the allocated allowance for loan losses was calculated consistent with ASC 450, and determined based upon EL factors, which were applied to groupings of specific loan types by loan risk ratings. Allocated EL factors were also adjusted, as necessary, for certain qualitative factors that in management's judgment were necessary to reflect losses incurred in the portfolio. Transfers of Financial Assets Transfers of financial assets in which Synovus has surrendered control over the transferred assets are accounted for as sales. Control over transferred assets is considered to be surrendered when 1) the assets have been legally isolated from Synovus or any consolidated affiliates, even in bankruptcy or other receivership, 2) the transferee has the right to pledge or exchange the assets with no conditions that constrain the transferee and provide more than a trivial benefit to Synovus, and 3) Synovus does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets. If the transfer is accounted for as a sale, the transferred assets are derecognized from the balance sheet and a gain or loss on sale is recognized on the consolidated statements of income. If the sale criteria are not met, the transfer is accounted for as a secured borrowing and the transferred assets remain on Synovus' consolidated balance sheets and the proceeds from the transaction are recognized as a liability. Cash Surrender Value of Bank-Owned Life Insurance Investments in bank-owned life insurance policies on certain current and former officers and employees of Synovus are recorded at the net realizable value of the policies. Net realizable value is the cash surrender value of the policies less any applicable surrender charges and any policy loans. Synovus has not borrowed against the cash surrender value of these policies. Changes in the cash surrender value of the policies as well as proceeds from insurance benefits are recorded in income from bank-owned life insurance on the consolidated statements of income. Premises, Equipment and Software Premises, equipment and software including bank owned branch locations and leasehold improvements are reported at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization, which are computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Buildings and improvements are depreciated over an average of 10 to 40 years, while furniture, equipment, and software are depreciated and amortized over a range of 3 to 10 years. Synovus capitalizes certain costs associated with the acquisition or development of internal-use software. Once the software is ready for its intended use, these costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the software’s expected useful life over a range of the lesser of contract terms or 3 to 7 years. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life or the remainder of the lease term. Synovus reviews long-lived assets, such as premises and equipment, for impairment whenever events and circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Maintenance and repairs are charged to non-interest expense and improvements that extend the useful life of the asset are capitalized to the asset's carrying value and depreciated. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the excess purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets of acquired businesses. Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level, equivalent to a business segment or one level below. Synovus performs its annual evaluation of goodwill impairment during the fourth quarter of each year and as events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Refer to "Part II - Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data - Note 5 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" of this Report for details of the evaluation. Other intangible assets relate primarily to a core deposit intangible and borrower relationships resulting from business acquisitions. The core deposit intangible is amortized over its estimated useful life of approximately ten years utilizing an accelerated method. The remaining intangible assets are amortized using straight line methods based on the remaining lives of the assets with amortization periods ranging from eight to ten years. Amortization periods for intangible assets are monitored to determine if events and circumstances require such periods to be reduced. Intangible assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of the intangible assets is measured by a comparison of the asset's carrying amount to future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. Any resulting impairment is measured by the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the asset (based on the undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the asset). Segment Disclosures ASC Topic 280, Segment Reporting, requires information be reported about a company’s operating segments using a “management approach.” Reportable segments are identified as those revenue-producing components for which discrete financial information is produced internally and which are subject to evaluation by the chief operating decision maker in making resource allocation decisions. Based on this guidance, Synovus identified three major reportable business segments: Community Banking, Wholesale Banking, and Financial Management Services (FMS), with functional activities such as treasury, technology, operations, marketing, finance, enterprise risk, legal, human resources, corporate communications, executive management, among others, included in Treasury and Corporate Other. Refer to "Part II - Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data - Note 17 - Segment Reporting" of this Report for additional details. The application and development of management reporting methodologies is a dynamic process and is subject to periodic enhancements. As these enhancements are made, financial results presented by each reportable segment may be periodically revised. Other Assets Other assets include ROU assets, FRB and FHLB stock, derivative asset positions, net deferred tax assets, accrued interest receivable and investments in tax credits, other investments, and other balances as shown in "Part II - Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data - Note 6 - Other Assets" of this Report. As a member of the Federal Reserve System, Synovus is currently required to purchase and hold shares of capital stock in the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta (recorded at amortized cost, which approximates fair value, of $143.7 million and $142.5 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively) in an amount equal to the greater of 6% of its capital and surplus or 0.6% of deposits. As a member of the FHLB, Synovus is also required to purchase and hold shares or capital stock in the FHLB (recorded at amortized cost, which approximates fair value, of $16.2 million and $15.0 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively) in an amount equal to its membership base investment plus an activity-based investment determined according to the level of outstanding FHLB advances. Derivative Instruments Synovus’ risk management policies emphasize the management of interest rate risk within acceptable guidelines. Synovus’ objective in maintaining these policies is to limit volatility in net interest income arising from changes in interest rates. Risks to be managed include both fair value and cash flow risks. Utilization of derivative financial instruments provides a valuable tool to assist in the management of these risks. All derivative instruments are recorded on the consolidated balance sheets at their respective fair values, net of variation margin payments, as components of other assets and other liabilities. The accounting for changes in fair value (i.e., unrealized gains or losses) of a derivative instrument depends on whether it qualifies and has been designated as part of a hedging relationship in accordance with ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging. Synovus formally assesses, both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivative instruments that are used are highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the hedged items. Fair value hedges - If the hedged exposure is a fair value exposure, the unrealized gain or loss on the derivative instrument is recognized in earnings in the period of change, in the same income statement line as the offsetting unrealized loss or gain on the hedged item attributable to the risk being hedged. When a fair value hedge is discontinued, the remaining cumulative adjustments to the hedged item and accumulated amounts in OCI are accounted for in the same manner as other components of the carrying amount of the asset or liability. If the hedged item is derecognized, the accumulated amounts in OCI are immediately reclassified to net income. Cash flow hedges - If the hedged exposure is a cash flow exposure, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported initially as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of the tax impact, and subsequently reclassified into earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings with the impacts recorded in the same income statement line item used to present the earnings effect of the hedged item. When a cash flow hedge is discontinued but the hedged cash flows or forecasted transactions are still expected to occur, gains or losses that were accumulated in other comprehensive income are amortized into earnings over the same periods which the hedged transactions are still expected to affect earnings. If, however, it is probable the forecasted transactions will no longer occur, the accumulated amounts in OCI at the de-designation date are immediately recognized in earnings. If the derivative instrument is not designated as a hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is recognized in earnings as a component of other non-interest revenue on the consolidated statements of income in the period of change. Synovus also holds derivative instruments, which consist of interest rate lock agreements related to expected funding of fixed-rate mortgage loans to clients (interest rate lock commitments) and forward commitments to sell mortgage-backed securities and individual fixed-rate mortgage loans. Synovus’ objective in obtaining the forward commitments is to mitigate the interest rate risk associated with the interest rate lock commitments and the mortgage loans that are held for sale. Both the interest rate lock commitments and the forward commitments are reported at fair value, with adjustments recorded in current period earnings in mortgage banking income. Synovus also enters into interest rate swap agreements to facilitate the risk management strategies of certain commercial banking clients. Synovus mitigates this risk by entering into equal and offsetting interest rate swap agreements with highly rated third-party financial institutions. The interest rate swap agreements are free-standing derivatives and are recorded at fair value with any unrealized gain or loss recorded in current period earnings in other non-interest revenue. These instruments, and their offsetting positions, are recorded in other assets and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. Non-interest Revenue Synovus' contracts with clients generally do not contain terms that require significant judgment to determine the amount of revenue to recognize. Synovus' policies for recognizing non-interest revenue within the scope of ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, including the nature and timing of such revenue streams, are included below. Service Charges on Deposit Accounts: Revenue from service charges on deposit accounts is earned through cash management, wire transfer, and other deposit-related services, as well as overdraft, NSF, account management and other deposit-related fees. Revenue is recognized for these services either over time, corresponding with deposit accounts' monthly cycle, or at a point in time for transaction-related services and fees. Payment for service charges on deposit accounts is primarily received immediately or in the following month through a direct charge to clients' accounts. Fiduciary and Asset Management Fees: Fiduciary and asset management fees are primarily comprised of fees earned from the management and administration of trusts and other client assets. Synovus' performance obligation is generally satisfied over time and the resulting fees are recognized monthly, based upon the month-end market value of the assets under management and the applicable fee rate. Payment is generally received a few days after month-end through a direct charge to clients' accounts. Synovus does not earn performance-based incentives. Card Fees: Card fees consist primarily of interchange fees from consumer credit and debit cards processed by card association networks, as well as merchant discounts, and other card-related services. Interchange rates are generally set by the credit card associations and based on purchase volumes and other factors. Interchange fees and merchant discounts are recognized concurrently with the delivery of service on a daily basis as transactions occur. Payment is typically received immediately or in the following month. Card fees are reported net of certain associated expense items including loyalty program expense and network expense. Brokerage Revenue: Brokerage revenue consists primarily of commissions. Additionally, brokerage revenue includes advisory fees earned from the management of client assets. Transactional revenues are based on the size and number of transactions executed at the client's direction and are generally recognized on the trade date with payment received on the settlement date. Advisory fees for brokerage services are recognized and collected monthly and are based upon the month-end market value of the assets under management at a rate predetermined in the contract. Capital Markets Income (within the scope of ASC Topic 606): Investment banking income, a component of capital markets income, is comprised primarily of securities underwriting fees and remarketing fees. Synovus assists corporate clients in raising capital by offering equity or debt securities to potential investors. The transaction fees are based on a percentage of the total transaction amount. The underwriting and remarketing fees are recognized on the trade date when the securities are sold to third-party investors with payment received on the settlement date. Insurance Revenue (included in other non-interest revenue on the consolidated statements of income): Insurance revenue primarily consists of commissions received on annuity and life product sales. The commissions are recognized as revenue when the client executes an insurance policy with the insurance carrier. In some cases, Synovus receives payment of trailing commissions each year when the client pays its annual premium. Other Fees (included in other non-interest revenue on the consolidated statements of income): Other fees within the scope of ASC Topic 606 primarily consist of revenue generated from safe deposit box rental fees and lockbox services. Fees are recognized over time, on a monthly basis, as Synovus' performance obligation for services is satisfied. Payment is received upfront for safe deposit box rentals and in the following month for lockbox services. Income Taxes Synovus is a domestic corporation that files a consolidated federal income tax return with its wholly-owned subsidiaries and files state income tax returns on a consolidated or separate entity basis with the various taxing jurisdictions based on its taxable presence. The current income tax payable or receivable is an estimate of the amounts currently owed to or due from taxing authorities in which Synovus conducts business. It also includes increases and decreases in the amount of taxes payable for uncertain tax positions reported in tax returns for the current and/or prior years. Synovus uses the asset and liability method to account for future income taxes expected to be paid or received (i.e., deferred income taxes). Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement (GAAP) carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, including operating losses and tax credit carryforwards. The deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in income tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is required for deferred tax assets if, based on available evidence, it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the asset will not be realized. In making this assessment, all sources of taxable income available to realize the deferred tax asset are considered, including taxable income in prior carryback years, future reversals of existing temporary differences, tax planning strategies, and future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards. The predictability that future taxable income, exclusive of reversing temporary differences, will occur is the most subjective of these four sources. Changes in the valuation allowance are recorded through income tax expense. Significant estimates used in accounting for income taxes relate to the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets, estimates of the realizability of income tax credits, utilization of NOLs, the determination of taxable income, and the determination of temporary differences between book and tax bases. Synovus accrues tax liabilities for uncertain income tax positions based on current assumptions regarding the expected outcome by weighing the facts and circumstances available at the reporting date. If related tax benefits of a transaction are not more likely than not of being sustained upon examination, Synovus will accrue a tax liability or reduce a deferred tax asset for the expected tax impact associated with the transaction. Events and circumstances may alter the estimates and assumptions used in the analysis of its income tax positions and, accordingly, Synovus' effective tax rate may fluctuate in the future. Synovus recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions as a component of income tax expense. Share-based Compensation Synovus has a long-term incentive plan under which the Compensation and Human Capital Committee of the Board of Directors has the authority to grant share-based awards to Synovus employees. Synovus' share-based compensation costs associated with employee grants are recorded as a component of salaries and other personnel expense on the consolidated statements of income. Share-based compensation costs associated with grants made to non-employee directors of Synovus are recorded as a component of other operating expense. Vesting for grants of share-based awards granted to Synovus employees accelerates upon retirement for plan participants who have reached age 65 and who also have no less than ten years of service at the date of their election to retire. Share-based compensation expense for service-based awards that contain a graded vesting schedule is recognized net of estimated forfeitures for plan participants on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the requisite service period for the entire award or the period until reaching retirement eligibility. The non-employee director restricted share units become fully vested and transferable upon the earlier to occur of the completion of three years of service or the date the holder reaches the mandatory retirement age, as set forth in the Company's Corporate Governance Guidelines. Thus, share-based compensation expense for non-employee awards is recognized over the shorter of three years or mandatory retirement. Synovus records all tax effects associated with share-based compensation through the income statement. Earnings per Share Basic net income per common share is computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the average common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted net income per common share reflects the dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted. The dilutive effect of outstanding options and restricted share units is reflected in diluted net income per common share, unless the impact is anti-dilutive, by application of the treasury stock method. Share Repurchases Common stock repurchases are recorded at cost. At the date of repurchase, shareholders' equity is reduced by the repurchase price and includes commissions and other transaction expenses that arise from the repurchases. The Company has not historically retired shares repurchased, but Synovus' policy is to record retirement of shares in accordance with ASC 505-30-30. If treasury shares are subsequently reissued, treasury stock is reduced by the cost of such stock with differences between cost and the re-issuance date fair value recorded in additional paid-in capital or retained earnings, as applicable. Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures Synovus carries various assets and liabilities at fair value based on the fair value accounting guidance under ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements, and ASC Topic 825, Financial Instruments. Fair value is defined 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. Fair Value Hierarchy Synovus determines the fair value of its financial instruments based on the fair value hierarchy established under ASC 820-10-35, which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. A financial instrument’s categorization within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the financial instrument's fair value measurement in its entirety. There are three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value. The three levels of inputs of the valuation hierarchy are defined below:
| Level 1 | Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets and liabilities for the instrument or security to be valued.
| Level 2 | Observable inputs other than Level 1 quoted prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices in markets that are not active or model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data.
| Level 3 | Unobservable inputs that are supported by little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability.
Valuation Methodology by Instrument - Recurring Basis The following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for the major categories of financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Investment Securities Available for Sale and Trading Account Assets/Liabilities The fair values of investment securities available for sale and trading securities are primarily based on actively traded markets where prices are based on either quoted market prices or observed transactions. Management employs independent third-party pricing services to provide fair value estimates for Synovus' investment securities available for sale and trading securities. Fair values for fixed income investment securities are typically determined based upon quoted market prices, and/or inputs that are observable in the market, either directly or indirectly, for substantially similar securities. Level 1 securities are typically exchange quoted prices and include financial instruments such as U.S. Treasury securities and marketable equity securities. Level 2 securities are typically matrix priced by the third-party pricing service to calculate the fair value. Such fair value measurements consider observable data such as market spreads, cash flows, yield curves, live trading levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayments speeds, credit information, and the respective terms and conditions for debt instruments. The types of securities classified as Level 2 within the valuation hierarchy primarily consist of collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed securities, debt securities of GSEs and agencies, corporate debt, asset-backed securities, and state and municipal securities. Management uses various validation procedures to confirm the prices received from pricing services are reasonable. Such validation procedures include reference to market quotes and a review of valuations and trade activity of comparable securities. Consideration is given to the nature of the quotes (e.g., indicative or firm) and the relationship of recently evidenced market activity to the prices provided by the third-party pricing service. Further, management also employs the services of an additional independent pricing firm as a means to verify and confirm the fair values of the primary independent pricing firms. When there is limited activity or less transparency around inputs to valuation, Synovus develops valuations based on assumptions that are not readily observable in the marketplace; these securities are classified as Level 3 within the valuation hierarchy. Mortgage Loans Held for Sale Synovus elected to apply the fair value option for mortgage loans originated with the intent to sell to investors in the secondary market. When loans are not committed to an investor at a set price, fair value is derived from a hypothetical bulk sale model using current market pricing indicators. A best execution valuation model is used for loan pricing for similar assets based upon forward settlements of a pool of loans of similar 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 primarily used as collateral for securitizations, the valuation model methodology attempts to reflect the pricing execution available to Synovus’ principal market. Mortgage loans held for sale are classified within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy. Other investments The other investments in which Synovus holds a limited partner interest consist of i) funds that invest in privately held companies and ii) funds previously invested in privately held companies which become publicly traded securities. Funds invested in privately held companies are classified as Level 3 and the estimated fair value of the company is the estimated fair value as an exit price the fund would receive if it were to sell the company in the marketplace. The fair value of the fund's underlying investments is estimated through the use of valuation models, such as option pricing or a discounted cash flow model. Synovus typically sells shares in any investment after initial public offering (IPO) lock-up periods have ended. Mutual Funds Mutual funds (including those held in rabbi trusts) primarily invest in equity and fixed income securities. Shares of mutual funds are valued based on quoted market prices and are therefore classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Derivative Assets and Liabilities Fair values of interest rate lock commitments and forward commitments are estimated based on an internally developed model that uses readily observable market data such as interest rates, prices and indices to generate continuous yield or pricing curves, volatility factors, and client credit-related adjustments, subject to the anticipated loan funding probability (pull-through rate). These fair value estimates are classified as Level 2 within the valuation hierarchy. Fair values of interest rate swaps are determined using a discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative which also includes a credit value adjustment for client swaps or provided by the clearing house, or centralized counter party (CCP), for swaps within our hedging program. An independent third-party valuation is used to verify and confirm these values, which are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy. Valuation Methodology by Instrument - Non-recurring Basis The following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for the major categories of financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis. Loans Loans measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis consist of loans that do not share similar risk characteristics. These loans are typically collateral dependent loans that are valued using third-party appraised value of collateral less estimated selling price (Level 3). Other Loans Held for Sale Loans are transferred to other loans held for sale at amortized cost when Synovus makes the determination to sell specifically identified loans. If the amortized cost exceeds fair value a valuation allowance is established for the difference. The fair value of the loans is primarily determined by analyzing the anticipated market prices of similar assets less estimated costs to sell. At the time of transfer, any credit losses are determined in accordance with Synovus' policy and recorded as a charge-off against the allowance for loan losses. Subsequent changes in the valuation allowance due to changes in the fair value subsequent to the transfer, as well as gains/losses realized from the sale of these assets, are recorded as gains/losses on other loans held for sale, net, as a component of non-interest expense on the consolidated statements of income (Level 3). 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. A loan is classified as an in-substance foreclosure when Synovus has taken possession of the collateral regardless of whether formal foreclosure proceedings have taken place. At foreclosure, ORE is recorded at fair value less estimated selling costs, which establishes a new cost basis. Subsequent to foreclosure, ORE is evaluated quarterly and reported at fair value less estimated selling costs, not to exceed the new cost basis, determined by review of current appraisals, as well as the review of comparable sales and other estimates of fair value obtained principally from independent sources, adjusted for estimated selling costs (Level 3). Any adjustments are recorded as a component of foreclosed real estate expense, net on the consolidated statements of income. Other Assets Held for Sale Other assets held for sale consist of certain premises and equipment held for sale. The fair value of these assets is determined primarily on the basis of appraisals or BOV, as circumstances warrant, adjusted for estimated selling costs. Both techniques engage licensed or certified professionals that use inputs such as absorption rates, capitalization rates, and market comparables (Level 3). Fair Value of Financial Instruments Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash Cash and cash equivalents, 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. Since these amounts relate to highly liquid assets, these are considered a Level 1 measurement. Loans, net of Deferred Fees and Costs Synovus estimates the fair value of loans based on the present value of the future cash flows using the interest rate that would be charged for a similar loan to a borrower with similar risk, adjusted for a discount based on the estimated time period to complete a sale transaction with a market participant. Loans are considered a Level 3 fair value measurement. Deposits 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. Synovus has determined that the appropriate classification for deposits is Level 2 due to the ability to reasonably measure all inputs to valuation based on observable market variables. Short-term and Long-term Debt Short-term and long-term debt is considered a Level 2 valuation, as management relies on market prices for bonds or debt that is similar, but not necessarily identical, to the debt being valued. Short-term debt that matures within ten days is assumed to be at fair value and is considered a Level 1 measurement. Long-term Debt Long-term debt balances are presented net of discounts and premiums as well as debt issuance costs that arise from the issuance of long-term debt. Discounts, premiums and debt issuance costs are amortized using the effective interest rate method or straight-line method (when the financial statement impacts of this method are not materially different from the former method). Contingent Liabilities and Legal Costs Synovus estimates its contingent liabilities with respect to outstanding legal matters based on information currently available to management, management’s estimates about the probability of outcomes of each case and the advice of legal counsel. Management accrues an estimated loss from a loss contingency when information available indicates that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Significant judgment is required in making these estimates and management must make assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain. Accordingly, the actual loss may be more or less than the current estimate. In many situations, Synovus may be unable to estimate reasonably possible losses due to the preliminary nature of the legal matters, as well as a variety of other factors and uncertainties. As there are further developments, Synovus will reassess these legal matters and the related potential liabilities and will revise, when needed, its estimate of contingent liabilities. Legal costs, including attorney fees, incurred in connection with pending litigation and other loss contingencies are expensed as incurred. Recently Adopted Accounting Standards ASU 2020-08, Codification Improvements to Subtopic 310-20, Receivables – Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs. The guidance in this ASU pertains to the shortened amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, which p remium is amortized to the next call date, and clarifies that each reporting period an entity should reevaluate the effective yield if there is no remaining premium or no further call dates remaining. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. Synovus adopted ASU 2020-08 effective January 1, 2021 with no material impact to the consolidated financial statements. ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12 to simplify and reduce complexities when accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions. Among the provisions of this guidance is the requirement that an entity reflect the effect of an enacted change in tax laws or rates in the annual effective tax rate computation in the interim period that includes the enactment date. ASU 2019-12 is effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. Synovus adopted ASU 2019-12 effective January 1, 2021 with no material impact to the consolidated financial statements unless there are changes in tax law that require recognition as set forth in this guidance. ASU 2021-06, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205), Financial Services - Depository and Lending (Topic 942), and Financial Services-Investment Companies (Topic 946). In August 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-06 which amends SEC paragraphs in the codif ication pursuant to SEC Final Rule Rele ases No. 33-10786 and No. 33-10835. These rule releases amend disclosure requirements applicable to acquisitions and dispositions of businesses and also amend statistical disclosures that banks and bank holding companies provide to investors. ASU 2021-06 eliminates disclosures that overlap with SEC rules or US GAAP. The amendments in this ASU were effective upon its addition to the FASB codification with no material effect to the consolidated financial statements Recently Issued Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted 2021-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers. In October 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-08 to address diversity in practice related to the accounting for revenue contracts with customers acquired in a business combination. Generally, this new guidance will result in the acquirer recognizing contract assets and contract liabilities at the same amounts recorded by the acquiree (in accordance with ASC 606). The guidance in ASU 2021-08 should be applied prospectively to acquisitions occurring on or after the effective date. For Synovus, the amendments in this Update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption of the amendments is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. ASU 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848). In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-01 which provides optional expedients and exceptions in Topic 848 for derivative instruments and hedge accounting modifications resulting from the discounting transition of reference rate reform. The expedients and exceptions provided by ASU 2021-01 will not be available after December 31, 2022, other than for existing hedging relationships entered into by December 31, 2022. The ASU may be applied as of the beginning of an interim period that includes or is subsequent to March 12, 2020, until the sunset date of December 31, 2022. Synovus adopted ASU 2020-04 Reference Rate Reform: Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting on October 1, 2020. While Synovus has not yet finalized the election of optional expedients for ASU 2021-01, we do not currently expect there to be a material financial impact to the Company regardless of which optional expedients the Company selects to replace LIBOR.

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