Fifth Third (Nasdaq: FITB) today was named Editors’ Choice: Best Lender for Buying Now and Refinancing Later in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Lending Awards. The honor reflects the Bank’s leadership in delivering mortgage solutions that support customers navigating today’s dynamic housing market.

The recognition also underscores Fifth Third’s innovative approach to helping homebuyers move confidently in a high-rate environment, offering tools and programs that make it easier to purchase a home now while maintaining the flexibility to benefit from future market improvements.

“This recognition reflects our belief that a mortgage is more than a financial transaction—it’s a life decision,” said Jay Plum, Head of Consumer Lending at Fifth Third. “Our teams take the time to understand each customer’s story and help them move forward with confidence, whether they’re buying now, planning to sell later, or looking for stability in a changing market.”

U.S. News determined the winning institutions for each category using comprehensive, data-driven methodologies, evaluating affordability, eligibility requirements, customer service for lenders and more.

This U.S. News’ Editors’ Choice distinction follows strong consumer adoption and industry response to Fifth Third’s Rate Drop Protector, introduced in 2023. The program allows homebuyers to purchase with today’s rate and refinance later with no lender closing costs if interest rates drop—removing a significant barrier for customers who want to buy now but are monitoring the rate outlook. Since launch, Fifth Third’s Rate Drop Protector has empowered thousands of Fifth Third mortgage customers to move forward with greater financial confidence, supporting both first time homebuyers and experienced borrowers seeking long-term value and flexibility.

Fifth Third is recognized as an industry leading mortgage lender that approaches every loan with a deep understanding of each borrower’s goals, never as a routine transaction. In 2025, the Bank originated more than $7.4 billion in mortgages, placing it among the nation’s top 45 mortgage lenders and one of the top 10 banks in overall mortgage volume. Its portfolio includes more than 35 mortgage products designed to support a wide range of income levels, credit backgrounds, and geographic needs. Fifth Third is also widely known for its first time homebuyer education programs and affordable lending solutions, which help make homeownership more attainable and accessible for more families.

About Fifth Third

Fifth Third is a bank that’s as long on innovation as it is on history. Since 1858, we’ve been helping individuals, families, businesses and communities grow through smart financial services that improve lives. Our list of firsts is extensive, and it’s one that continues to expand as we explore the intersection of tech-driven innovation, dedicated people and focused community impact. Fifth Third is one of the few U.S.-based banks to have been named among Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies^® for several years. With a commitment to taking care of our customers, employees, communities and shareholders, our goal is not only to be the nation’s highest performing regional bank, but to be the bank people most value and trust.

Fifth Third Bank, National Association is a federally chartered institution. Fifth Third Bancorp is the indirect parent company of Fifth Third Bank and its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ^® Global Select Market under the symbol "FITB." Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com. Deposit and credit products provided by Fifth Third Bank, National Association. Member FDIC.

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