Have you been eager to see how Citizens Financial Group, Inc. CFG performed in Q1 in comparison with the market expectations? Let’s quickly scan through the key facts from this Providence, Rhode Island-based financial services company’s earnings release this morning:An Earnings BeatCitizens Financial came out with earnings per share of 41 cents, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 38 cents. Notably, the reported quarter did not record any restructuring charges or significant one-time items.Better-than-expected results were driven by higher net interest income and relatively stable expenses, partially offset by fall in non interest income and significant rise in provisions. Also the quarter benefited from the rate hike as net interest margin (NIM) improved.How Was the Estimate Revision Trend?You should note that the earnings estimate for Citizens Financial remained stable prior to the earnings release. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has remained unchanged at 38 cents over the last 7 days.Revenue Almost at Par with ExpectationsCitizens Financial posted total revenues of $1,234 million, almost in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1,227 million. Notably, revenues improved 4% year over year.KeyStats:Net income increased 7% year over year to $223 million.Provision for credit losses jumped 57% year over year to $91 million.Non-interest expense remained almost stable year over year at $811 million. NIM improved 9 basis points year over to 2.86%.Efficiency ratio declined to 66% in first-quarter 2016 from 68% in the prior year quarter. Generally, lower ratio is indicative of the improved efficiency of the bank. What Zacks Rank SaysThe estimate revisions that we discussed earlier have driven a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) for Citizens Financial. However, since the latest earnings performance is yet to be reflected in the estimate revisions, the rank is subject to change. Now it all depends on what sense the just-released report makes to the analysts.Check back later for our full write up on this Citizens Financial earnings report!Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report >> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report CITIZENS FIN GP (CFG): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research