KeyCorp returns to a profit in first quarter

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Large regional bank M&T Bank Corp. Monday reported loan growth in its first quarter results and KeyCorp said at least it saw signs of a turnaround, as loan growth becomes the focus for bank investors.

For both banks earnings grew, not through loan growth but as improving credit quality led to smaller loan-loss reserves. M&T shares rose 2.3% to $87.29 recently. KeyCorp dropped 3% to $8.55.

At Key, the Cleveland parent of KeyBank, loan balances actually fell across the board as the bank exited certain types of lending, including commercial real estate.