Easley, Michael. Press Release, 2001-01-26, Gov. Mike Easley's Statement on the Merger Agreement Between Centura Banks Inc. and Royal Bank of Canada

Michael F. Easley Governor State of North Carolina Office of the Governor For Release: IMMEDIATE Contact: Cari Flepp Date: January 26, 2001 Phone: (919) 733-5612 GOV. MIKE EASLEY’S STATEMENT ON THE MERGER AGREEMENT BETWEEN CENTURA BANKS INC. AND ROYAL BANK OF CANADA "I am excited by the news that Rocky Mount-based Centura Banks Inc. is joining Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), one of North America’s premiere financial services institutions. RBC has a rich heritage in Canada and a sterling reputation as an innovative, people-oriented organization. Likewise, Centura has a long history in North Carolina and has been an active, community-oriented corporate citizen for more than a century. I am pleased to learn that Royal Bank of Canada has chosen Centura as its growth engine for expanding its U.S. banking operations, that its headquarters will remain in Rocky Mount, and that Centura will continue to grow and prosper. This agreement speaks well to the vitality of our people, our region and our economy. We welcome Royal Bank of Canada to the region." -30- Govemor's Press Office State Capitol. Raleigh, NC 27603-8001 (919) 733-5612 - Toll Free 1-800-662-7005 FAX (919) 733-5166 Z:\arc\staging\State_Agencies\Governors_Office\Easley_07-01-09\groups\po\achivel\Item_33958_Press_Releases\2001\Govemor\01- January\Centura_and_Royal_Bank_of_Canada_merger.doc