Accounting changes and new accounting guidance (Policies)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Basis of presentation

Basis of presentation

The accounting and financial reporting policies of BNY Mellon, a global financial services company, conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) and prevailing industry practices. For information on our significant accounting and reporting policies, see Note 1 in our 2019 Annual Report.

The accompanying consolidated financial statements are unaudited. In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented have been made. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with our 2019 Annual Report.

Reclassifications

Certain immaterial reclassifications have been made to prior periods to place them on a basis comparable with the current period presentation.

Use of estimates

Use of estimatesThe preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates based upon assumptions about future economic and market conditions which affect reported amounts and related disclosures in our financial statements. Although our current estimates contemplate current conditions and how we expect them to change in the future, it is reasonably possible that actual conditions could be worse than anticipated in those estimates, which could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Fair value measurement

Fair value measurementFair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset, or paid to transfer a liability, in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. A three-level hierarchy for fair value measurements is utilized based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability as of the measurement date. BNY Mellon’s own creditworthiness is considered when valuing liabilities. See Note 20 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in our 2019 Annual Report for information on how we determine fair value and the fair value hierarchy.The following tables present the financial instruments carried at fair value at Sept. 30, 2020 and Dec. 31, 2019, by caption on the consolidated balance sheet and by the three-level valuation hierarchy. We have included credit ratings information in certain of the tables because the information indicates the degree of credit risk to which we are exposed, and significant changes in ratings classifications could result in increased risk for us.

Loans

LoansLoans are reported at amortized cost, net of any unearned income and deferred fees and costs. Certain loan origination and upfront commitment fees, as well as certain direct loan origination and commitment costs, are deferred and amortized as a yield adjustment over the lives of the related loans. Loans held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or fair value.

Troubled debt restructuring/loan modifications

Troubled debt restructuring/loan modifications

A modified loan is considered a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”) if the debtor is experiencing financial difficulties and the creditor grants a concession to the debtor that would not otherwise be considered. A TDR may include a transfer of real estate or other assets from the debtor to the creditor, or a modification of the term of the loan. Credit losses related to TDRs are accounted for under an individual evaluation methodology (see “Allowance for credit losses” below). Credit losses for anticipated TDRs are accounted for similarly to TDRs and are identified when there is a reasonable expectation that a TDR will be executed with the borrower and when we expect the modification to affect the timing or amount of payments and/or the payment term.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, there have been two forms of relief provided for classifying loans as TDRs: The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”) and the Interagency

Guidance (as defined below). Financial institutions may account for eligible loan modifications either under the CARES Act or the Interagency Guidance. The Company has elected to apply both the CARES Act and the Interagency Guidance, as applicable, in providing borrowers with loan modification relief in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

The CARES Act, which became law on March 27, 2020, provides that financial institutions may, subject to certain conditions, elect to temporarily suspend the U.S. GAAP requirements with respect to loan modifications related to the coronavirus pandemic that were current as of Dec. 31, 2019 and that would otherwise be identified and treated as TDRs.

This TDR relief is applicable to modifications that were made from March 1, 2020 until the earlier of Dec. 31, 2020 or 60 days from the date the national emergency related to the coronavirus pandemic officially ends.

Various banking regulators issued guidance in the April 7, 2020 “Interagency Statement on Loan Modifications and Reporting for Financial Institutions Working with Customers Affected by the Coronavirus (revised)” (“Interagency Guidance”) on loan modification treatment pursuant to which financial institutions can apply the U.S. GAAP requirements for loan modifications. In accordance with this guidance, a loan modification is not considered a TDR if the modification is related to the coronavirus pandemic, the borrower had been current when the modification program was implemented, and the modification includes payment deferrals for not more than six months.

Nonperforming assets

Nonperforming assets

Commercial loans are placed on nonaccrual status when principal or interest is past due 90 days or more, or when there is reasonable doubt that interest or principal will be collected.

When a first or second lien residential mortgage loan reaches 90 days delinquent, it is subject to an individual evaluation of credit loss and placed on nonaccrual status.

When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, previously accrued and uncollected interest is reversed against current period interest revenue. Interest receipts on nonaccrual loans are recognized

as interest revenue or are applied to principal when we believe the ultimate collectability of principal is in doubt. Nonaccrual loans generally are restored to an accrual basis when principal and interest become current and remain current for a specified period. “Allowance for credit losses” below provides additional information regarding the individual evaluation of credit losses for nonperforming loans.

Allowance for credit losses

Allowance for credit losses

The accounting policy for estimating credit losses related to financial assets measured at amortized cost, including loans and lending-related commitments changed beginning in the first quarter of 2020 as a result of the adoption of ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses: Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. This ASU also included targeted amendments with respect to credit losses for available-for-sale debt securities. The accounting policy for determining the allowances has been identified as a “critical accounting estimate” as it requires us to make numerous complex and subjective estimates and assumptions relating to amounts which are judgmental and inherently uncertain.

Credit quality is monitored by management and is reflected within the allowance for credit losses. The allowance represents management’s estimate of expected credit losses over the expected contractual life of the financial instruments as of the balance sheet date. The allowance methodology is designed to provide procedural discipline in assessing the appropriateness of the allowance.

A quantitative methodology and qualitative framework is used to estimate the allowance for credit losses. The qualitative framework is described in further detail within “Allowance for credit losses - Other” below. The quantitative component of our estimate uses models and methodologies that categorize financial assets based on product type, collateral type, and other credit trends and risk characteristics, including relevant information about past events, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions that affect the collectability of the recorded amounts. The allowance may be determined using various methods, including discounted cash flow methods, loss-rate methods, probability of default methods or other methods that we determine to be appropriate.

We estimate our expected credit losses using the probability of default method for the majority of our financial assets. We measure expected credit losses of financial assets on a collective (pool) basis when similar risk characteristics exist. For a financial asset that does not share risk characteristics with other assets, expected credit losses are measured based on an individual evaluation method.

In our estimate, with the exception of our small home equity line of credit portfolio, available-for-sale debt securities, and individually evaluated financial assets, we utilize a multi-scenario macroeconomic forecast which includes a weighting of baseline, stronger near-term growth and moderate recession scenarios. This approach allows us to develop our estimate using a wide span of economic input variables. Our baseline scenario reflects a view on likely performance of each global region and the other two scenarios are designed relative to the baseline scenario. The scenarios include both a reasonable and supportable forecast period as well as a reversion period. The reasonable and supportable forecast is typically over a two- to three-year horizon, followed by a reversion period in which the economic data reverts to long-term historical experience. In general, the forecasts across the alternative economic scenarios tend to revert toward the long-term trends after the forecast period, which is the period in which the confidence interval is considered reasonable and supportable. The speed at which the scenario specific forecasts revert is based on observed historical patterns of mean reversion that are reflected in our model parameter estimates. Certain macroeconomic variables such as unemployment or home prices take longer to revert after a contraction, though specific recovery times are scenario-specific. Reversion will usually take longer the further away the scenario specific forecast is from the historical mean. On a quarterly basis, within a developed governance structure, we update these scenarios for current economic conditions and may adjust the scenario weighting based on our economic outlook.

Allowance for credit losses - Loans and lending-related commitments

The allowance for credit losses on loans is presented as a valuation allowance to loans, and the allowance for credit losses on lending-related commitments is recorded in other liabilities. The components of the allowance for credit losses on loans and lending-

related commitments consist of the following three elements:

•a pooled allowance component for higher risk-rated and pass-rated commercial and institutional credits;

•a pooled allowance component for residential mortgage loans; and

•an asset-specific allowance component involving individually evaluated credits of $1 million or greater.

The first element, a pooled allowance component for higher risk-rated and pass-rated commercial and institutional credits, is based on our expected credit loss model. Individual credit analyses are performed on such loans before being assigned a credit rating. All borrowers are collectively evaluated based on their credit rating. The loss expected in each loan incorporates the borrower’s credit rating, facility rating and maturity. The loss given default, derived from the facility rating, incorporates a recovery expectation, and for unfunded lending exposures, an estimate of the use of the facility at default (usage given default). The borrower’s probability of default is derived from the associated credit rating. For each of the different parameters, specific credit models are developed for each segment of our portfolio, including commercial loans and lease financing, commercial real estate, financial institutions, and other. Segmentation is established based on risk characteristics of the loans and how risk is monitored. We use both internal and external data in the development of these parameters. In estimating the term of the exposures and resulting effect on the measurement of expected credit loss, we consider the impact of potential prepayments as well as the effect of borrower extension options. Borrower ratings are reviewed at least annually and are periodically mapped to third-party databases, including rating agency and default and recovery databases, to ensure ongoing consistency and validity. Higher risk-rated loans and lending-related commitments are reviewed quarterly.

The second element, a pooled allowance component for residential mortgage loans, is determined by first segregating our mortgage pools into two categories: (i) our wealth management mortgages and (ii) our legacy mortgage portfolio disclosed as other residential mortgages. We then apply models to each portfolio to predict prepayments, default rates and

loss severity. We consider historical loss experience and use a loan-level, multi-period default model which further segments each portfolio by product type including first lien fixed rate mortgages, first lien adjustable rate mortgages, second lien mortgages, and interest-only mortgages. We calculate the mortgage loss up to loan contractual maturity and embed a reasonable and supportable forecast and macroeconomic variable inputs which are described above. For home equity lines of credit, probability of default and loss given default are based on external data from third-party databases due to the small size of the portfolio and limited internal data. Our legacy mortgage portfolio and home equity line of credit portfolios represent small sub-segments of our mortgage loans.

The third element, individually evaluated credits, is based on individual analysis of loans of $1 million and greater which no longer share the risk characteristics with other loans. Factors we consider in measuring the extent of expected credit loss include the payment status, collateral value, the borrower’s financial condition, guarantor support, the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due, anticipated modifications of payment structure or term for troubled borrowers, and recoveries if they can be reasonably estimated. We measure the expected credit loss as the difference between the amortized cost basis in the loan and the present value of the expected future cash flows from the borrower which is generally discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, or the fair value of the collateral, if the loan is collateral dependent. We generally consider nonperforming loans as well as loans that have been or are anticipated to be modified under a troubled debt restructuring for individual evaluation given the risk characteristics of such loans.

Allowance for credit losses - Securities - Debt

When estimating expected credit losses, we segment our available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities portfolios by major asset class. This is influenced by whether the security is structured or non-structured (i.e., direct obligation), as well as the issuer type.

Debt securities are classified as available-for-sale securities when we intend to hold the securities for an indefinite period of time or when the securities may be used for tactical asset/liability management

purposes and may be sold from time to time to effectively manage interest rate exposure, prepayment risk and liquidity needs. Available-for-sale securities are measured at fair value. The difference between fair value and amortized cost represents the unrealized gains or losses on assets classified as available-for-sale, and is recorded net of tax as an addition to, or deduction from, other comprehensive income, unless we determine that this difference or a portion thereof represents an expected credit loss. If we determine that a credit loss exists, the amount is recognized as an allowance for credit losses in securities - available-for sale, with a corresponding adjustment to the provision for credit losses. We evaluate credit losses at the individual security level and do not recognize credit losses if the fair value exceeds amortized cost, and if we determine that a credit loss exists, we limit the recognition of the loss to the difference between fair value and amortized cost. In our determination of whether an expected credit loss exists, we routinely conduct periodic reviews and examine various quantitative and qualitative factors that are unique to each portfolio, including the severity of the unrealized loss position, agency rating, credit enhancement, cash flow deterioration and other factors. The measurement of an expected credit loss is then based on the best estimate of the present value of cash flows to be collected from the debt security. Generally, cash flows are discounted at the effective interest rate implicit in the debt security. Changes to the present value of cash flows due to the passage of time are recognized within the allowance for credit losses.

We estimate expected credit losses for held-to-maturity debt securities using a similar methodology as described in the first allowance element within “Allowance for credit losses - Loans and lending-related commitments” above. The allowance for credit losses on held-to-maturity debt securities are recorded in securities - held-to-maturity. The components of the credit loss calculation for each major portfolio or asset class include a probability of default and loss given default and their values depend on the forecast behavior of variables in the macroeconomic environment. For structured debt securities, we estimated expected credit losses at the individual security level and use a cash flow model to project principal losses. Generally, cash flows are discounted at the effective interest rate implicit in the debt security. The difference is reflected in the allowance for credit losses, and changes to the present

value of cash flows due to the passage of time are recognized within the allowance for credit losses.

We currently do not require an estimate of expected credit losses to be measured and recorded for U.S. Treasury securities, agency debt securities, as well as other debt securities that meet certain conditions that are based on a combination of factors such as guarantees, credit ratings, and other credit quality factors. These assets are monitored within our established governance structure on a recurring basis to determine if any changes are warranted.

Allowance for credit losses – Other financial instruments

We also estimate expected credit losses associated with margin loans, reverse repurchase agreements, security lending indemnifications, and deposits with third-party financial institutions using a similar methodology as described in the first allowance element within “Allowance for credit losses - Loans and lending-related commitments” above. The allowance for credit losses on reverse repurchase agreements are recorded in federal funds sold and securities purchased under resale agreements; the allowance for credit losses on securities lending indemnifications is recorded in other liabilities and the allowance for credit losses on deposits with third-party financial institutions is recorded in cash and due from banks or interest-bearing deposits with banks. Our reverse repurchase agreements are short term and subject to continuous overcollateralization by our counterparties and timely collateral replenishment, when necessary. As a result, we estimate the expected credit loss related to the uncollateralized portion of the asset at the balance sheet date, if any, and when there is a reasonable expectation that the counterparty will not replenish the collateral in compliance with the terms of the repurchase agreement. This method is also applied to margin lending arrangements and securities lending indemnifications.

Allowance for credit losses - Other

We do not apply our credit loss measurement methodologies to accrued interest receivable balances related to our loan, debt securities and deposits with third party financial institutions assets given our nonaccrual policy that requires charge-off of interest receivable when deemed uncollectible. Accrued interest receivable related to these instruments is

presented in total with other interest-bearing instruments in the consolidated balance sheet. Accrued interest receivable related to each major loan class is disclosed within our credit quality disclosure in Note 5.

Our policy for credit losses related to purchased financial assets requires an evaluation to be performed prior to the effective purchase date to determine if more than an insignificant decline in credit quality has occurred during the period between the origination and purchase date, or, in the case of debt securities, the period between the issuance and purchase date. If we purchase a financial asset with more than insignificant deterioration in credit quality, the measurement of expected credit loss is performed using the methodologies described above, and the credit loss is recorded as an allowance for credit losses on the purchase date. Subsequent to purchase, changes (favorable and unfavorable) in expected cash flows are recognized immediately in net income by adjusting the allowance. We evaluate various factors in the determination of whether a more than an insignificant decline in credit quality has occurred and these factors vary depending upon the type of asset purchased. Such factors include changes in risk rating and/or agency rating, collateral deterioration, payment status, purchase price, credit spreads, and other factors. We did not purchase any such assets during the first nine months of 2020 and did not own such assets as of Sept. 30, 2020.

We apply a separate credit loss methodology to accounts receivables to estimate the expected credit losses associated with these short-term receivables which historically have not resulted in significant credit losses. The allowance for credit losses on accounts receivable is reflected in other assets.

The qualitative component of our estimate for the allowance for credit losses is intended to capture expected losses that may not have been fully captured in the quantitative component. Through an established governance structure, management determines the qualitative allowance each period based on an evaluation of various internal and environmental factors which include: scenario weighting and sensitivity risk, credit concentration risk, economic conditions and other considerations. We may also make adjustments for idiosyncratic

risks. Once determined in the aggregate, our qualitative allowance is then allocated to each of our financial instrument portfolios except for debt securities and those instruments carried in other assets based on the respective instruments’ quantitative allowance balances. The allocation of this additional allowance for credit losses is inherently judgmental, and the entire allowance for credit losses is available to absorb credit losses regardless of the nature of the loss.