The operating environment remains challenging for many banks but experts at Raymond James' annual whole loan conference in September 2024 noted there is a growing acceptance and willingness to pursue deals to counter headwinds facing the group. In the episode, three veterans at Raymond James – John Toohig, head of whole loan trading; Bill Sammon, head of financial services capital markets; and Bob Toma, managing director in financial services investment banking – discussed the outlook for bank earnings, the heath of the consumer, the threat from institutions' exposure to commercial real estate and the impact of lower rates on future performance. The group also discussed how the fundamental environment will impact sentiment among investors and bank boards, the recent rebound in M&A and capital raising activity, and the potential for more deals, including securitizations that help banks derisk their balance sheets.