Metropolitan Commercial Bank was named one of Newsweek's Best Regional Banks in 2024 and 2025. The Bank was ranked by Independent Community Bankers of America among the top ten successful loan producers for 2024 by loan category and asset size for commercial banks with more than $1 billion in assets. Kroll affirmed a BBB+ (investment grade) deposit rating on January 29, 2025. For the fourth time, MCB has earned a place in the Piper Sandler Bank Sm-All Stars Class of 2024. The Bank is a New York State charte ...

Reaffirms Commitment to Pursuing All Measures to Maximize Value for Shareholders, Including by Voting Against All Incumbent Whitestone Board Members BALTIMORE, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- MCB Real Estate ("MCB"), a leading commercial real estate developer and investment management firm with a diverse nationwide portfolio and approximately $4 billion in AUM, today sent a letter to the Board of Trustees of Whitestone REIT (NYSE: WSR) ("Whitestone" or the "Company") regarding MCB's previously announced propos ...

Core Insights - Metropolitan Bank Holding Corp. (MCB) reached a 12-month high of $80.78 before correcting to a current price of $72.95, indicating notable volatility in its stock performance [1] Company Overview - MCB has shown interesting changes within a five-month period, reflecting its dynamic market position [1] Market Context - The article highlights the author's extensive experience in the logistics sector and stock investing, particularly focusing on ASEAN and NYSE/NASDAQ stocks, which includes banks, telecommunications, logistics, and hotels [1] - The author has been trading in the Philippine stock market since 2014, initially investing in blue-chip companies and later diversifying into various industries and market cap sizes [1] - The author entered the US market in 2020, gaining insights through a trading account managed for a relative before opening their own account [1]

Financial Performance - Net income for Q3 2025 was $7.1 million, a decrease of $5.1 million from $12.3 million in Q3 2024, primarily due to a $21.2 million increase in the provision for credit losses[117]. - For the nine months ended September 30, 2025, net income was $42.2 million, down $3.1 million from $45.3 million in the same period of 2024, mainly due to a $30.0 million increase in the provision for credit losses[118]. - Non-interest income decreased to $2.5 million in Q3 2025, down $3.8 million from $6.3 million in Q3 2024, primarily due to the absence of GPG revenue[134]. - Non-interest expense for Q3 2025 decreased to $45.8 million, down $5.5 million from the previous year, mainly due to a $10.0 million decrease in regulatory reserves[135]. - Non-interest expense decreased by $3.8 million to $131.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, compared to $135.4 million for the same period in 2024[136]. Asset and Loan Growth - Total assets increased to $8.2 billion as of September 30, 2025, reflecting a growth of $933.7 million, or 12.8%, from December 31, 2024[107]. - Total loans reached $6.8 billion, an increase of $747.6 million, or 12.4%, primarily driven by a $752.7 million rise in CRE loans[110]. - The average balance of loans for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, increased by $681.1 million compared to the same period in 2024[130]. - Loan production for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, was $1.4 billion, compared to $1.0 billion for the same period in 2024[144]. Deposits and Cash Position - Total deposits rose to $7.1 billion, up $1.1 billion, or 18.2%, from December 31, 2024, with non-interest-bearing demand deposits comprising 19.5% of total deposits[114]. - Cash and cash equivalents rose to $385.9 million at September 30, 2025, up from $200.3 million at December 31, 2024[143]. - Total deposits increased by $1.1 billion, or 18.2%, to $7.1 billion at September 30, 2025, compared to December 31, 2024[145]. Credit Quality and Loss Provisions - The allowance for credit losses (ACL) was $94.2 million as of September 30, 2025, compared to $63.3 million at December 31, 2024, with a provision of $34.7 million recorded for the nine months ended September 30, 2025[113]. - Non-performing loans increased to $81.6 million, representing 1.20% of total loans, up from 0.54% at December 31, 2024[112]. - The provision for credit losses for Q3 2025 was $23.9 million, reflecting changes in macroeconomic outlook and loan growth[133]. Shareholder Returns - The company repurchased 39,166 shares at an average cost of $69.27 per share during the three months ended September 30, 2025, with $47.3 million remaining under the share repurchase plan[100]. - The company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.15 per share, payable on November 14, 2025[98]. Interest Income and Expense - Net interest income for Q3 2025 increased to $132.0 million, up $11.5 million from $120.5 million in Q3 2024, driven by an $801.4 million increase in the average balance of loans[128]. - The net interest margin for Q3 2025 was 3.88%, an increase of 26 basis points from 3.62% in Q3 2024, attributed to loan and deposit pricing initiatives[127]. - Interest expense for Q3 2025 decreased to $54.7 million, down $532,000 from $55.2 million in Q3 2024, due to a 34 basis point decrease in the total cost of funds[131]. Securities and Other Comprehensive Loss - Total securities amounted to $934.4 million, reflecting a $18.7 million increase, or 2.0%, from December 31, 2024[109]. - Accumulated other comprehensive loss decreased by $11.3 million to $41.9 million, primarily due to unrealized gains on AFS securities[116]. Regulatory and Economic Factors - The Tier 1 leverage ratio for the Company was 9.8% at September 30, 2025, down from 10.8% at December 31, 2024[150]. - The estimated effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, was 30.0%, down from 31.1% for the same period in 2024[137]. - The estimated economic value of equity (EVE) would decrease by 5.21% with a 200 basis points increase in interest rates at September 30, 2025[160]. - In the event of a 200 basis points increase in interest rates, the Company would experience a 0.13% decrease in net interest income[157]. - The aggregate estimated amount of FDIC uninsured deposits was $1.8 billion at September 30, 2025, compared to $1.6 billion at December 31, 2024[146].

Core Insights - Metropolitan Commercial Bank has appointed Emma Krentz as AI Scientist in its newly established Office of Artificial Intelligence [1] - Emma Krentz brings a proven track record in designing and deploying AI and machine learning solutions specifically for the financial services industry [1] - The appointment reflects the bank's commitment to technological innovation and enhancing its service offerings through advanced AI capabilities [1] Company Developments - The establishment of the Office of Artificial Intelligence indicates a strategic move by Metropolitan Commercial Bank to integrate AI into its operations [1] - Emma Krentz's extensive experience in the banking industry positions her as a key asset in driving the bank's AI initiatives [1] - The focus on AI and machine learning solutions aligns with industry trends towards digital transformation in financial services [1]

Group 1 - The article does not provide any relevant content regarding the company or industry [1]

Core Insights - Metropolitan Bank Holding Corp. is focusing on AI integration and aligning with regulatory expectations while maintaining strong asset quality and customer engagement [1][4] - The bank has initiated a $50 million share repurchase program and declared its first common stock dividend, demonstrating commitment to shareholder returns [2] - Year-to-date, deposits have increased by over $1 billion, reflecting an 18% growth without acquisitions, and the bank is expanding its branch network in strategic locations [3][4] Financial Performance - In the third quarter, loan growth was approximately $170 million or 2.6%, with a year-to-date increase of over 12% [4][8] - Net interest margin (NIM) rose to 3.88%, up five basis points from the previous quarter, with expectations for further expansion in the fourth quarter [12][13] - Net interest income for the third quarter was $77.3 million, marking a 5% increase from the prior quarter and over 18% year-over-year [13] Risk Management and Provisions - The bank's third-quarter provision expense was $23.9 million, primarily related to specific multifamily loans, with minimal actual credit losses historically [5][10] - The bank's analysis indicates that recent Medicaid and Medicare cutbacks will not materially affect borrowers [5] - The overall asset quality remains strong, with no significant credit issues identified in the loan portfolio [10][34] Future Outlook - The bank is well-positioned to benefit from favorable industry trends despite market volatility, with a focus on capturing additional market share and optimizing profitability [6][37] - The loan pipeline remains robust, with projections of $100 million to $200 million in additional loan growth for the remainder of the year [9][34] - The bank anticipates continued growth in deposits and a modest decline in the cost of interest-bearing deposits, enhancing NIM further [10][12]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, loan growth was approximately $170 million, or 2.6%, with year-to-date growth exceeding $750 million, or more than 12% [3][9] - Core deposits increased by approximately $280 million, or 4.1% in the quarter, and year-to-date deposits grew by over $1 billion, or 18% [3][9] - Net interest margin (NIM) rose five basis points to 3.88% from 3.83% in the prior quarter, marking the eighth consecutive quarter of margin expansion [4][12] - Net interest income for Q3 was $77.3 million, up 5% quarter-over-quarter and over 18% year-over-year [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loan originations year-to-date reached $1.4 billion, with a mix of approximately 70% fixed and 30% floating rate loans [3][9] - The provision expense for Q3 was $23.9 million, with $18.7 million related to three loans extended to a single borrower group [7][13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The bank's non-depository financial institution (NDFI) book totals about $350 million, or approximately 5% of the loan portfolio, with no identified credit issues [10] - The cost of interest-bearing deposits declined by 9 basis points quarter-over-quarter [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is expanding its branch network in strategic markets, including Lakewood, New Jersey, and Miami, Florida [4] - The bank is focused on capturing additional market share through traditional channels and enhancing shareholder value [8] - The launch of an AI strategy is underway, with the hiring of an AI director to align with regulatory expectations [5] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the bank's position to benefit from favorable tailwinds in the banking industry despite recent market volatility [7][8] - The bank's asset quality remains strong, with no broad-based negative trends identified [5][6] Other Important Information - A $50 million share repurchase program was approved, along with the payment of the first common stock dividend [4] - The effective tax rate for the quarter was approximately 30% [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on the CRE multifamily relationship - Management provided insights on a multifamily relationship in Champaign, Illinois, and Ohio, indicating ongoing restructuring efforts [20] Question: Additional details on the $5.2 million provision - The provision was primarily driven by macroeconomic forecast deterioration and loan growth, with $3.5 million related to macroeconomic variables [22] Question: Bank's policy on insider selling prior to earnings releases - Management confirmed that insider trading is governed by 10b5-1 agreements and blackout periods [24][25] Question: Percentage of CRE loans out of market - Management indicated no immediate concerns beyond what was reported in Q3, with 19% of the portfolio in Manhattan [31] Question: Opportunities for deposit growth - Management noted a diversified deposit model, with no reliance on any single vertical for significant growth [34] Question: Digital transformation expenses - Management confirmed a slight tail in expenses for the first quarter of 2026, estimating it to be well less than $2 million [36] Question: Credit trends and asset quality - Management stated that aside from the specific credit issue, there were no noticeable movements in asset quality [47] Question: Future margin expectations - Management expressed optimism about approaching a 4% margin in 2026 with multiple rate cuts [54][55]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, Metropolitan Commercial Bank (MCB) reported loan growth of approximately $170 million, or 2.6% [3] - Year-to-date loan growth reached approximately $750 million, exceeding 12% [4] - Core deposits increased by approximately $280 million, or 4.1% in the quarter, with year-to-date growth over $1 billion, or 18% [4] - The net interest margin (NIM) increased by five basis points to 3.88% from 3.83% in the prior quarter [5][15] - Net interest income for Q3 was $77.3 million, up 5% from the previous quarter and over 18% year-over-year [17] - Diluted EPS for Q3 was reported at $0.67, with a normalized estimate closer to $1.95 after adjustments [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loan originations year-to-date were $1.4 billion, with a mix of approximately 70% fixed and 30% floating rate loans [4][12] - The bank's non-deposit funding initiative (NDFI) totals approximately $350 million, representing about 5% of the loan portfolio, with no identified credit issues [13] - Noninterest expense for the quarter was approximately $45.8 million, an increase of $2.7 million from the prior quarter, driven by compensation, technology costs, and licensing [19][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The bank's asset quality remains strong, with no broad-based negative trends identified across loan segments or geographies [7] - The provision expense for Q3 was $23.9 million, with $18.7 million related to a specific borrower group [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - MCB's growth strategy focuses on maintaining and developing existing deposit verticals while exploring new branch openings in strategic markets [4] - The company is advancing its technology stack and has initiated an AI strategy, hiring its first AI director [6] - The bank aims to capture additional market share through traditional channels and strategically position itself for future opportunities [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the bank's position to benefit from favorable tailwinds in the banking industry despite recent market volatility [8] - The bank anticipates modest further expansion of NIM in Q4 due to a decline in the cost of funds and continued deposit growth [16] - Management noted that the recent provision expense is a prudent measure and does not reflect broader credit issues within the portfolio [47] Other Important Information - The board approved a $50 million share repurchase program and the payment of the first common stock dividend, reflecting a commitment to shareholder returns [5] - The effective tax rate for the quarter was approximately 30% [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on the multifamily relationship metrics - Management provided insights on a multifamily relationship involving vacant buildings in Champaign, Illinois, and Ohio, indicating ongoing restructuring efforts [26] Question: Additional details on the $5.2 million provision - The provision was primarily driven by macroeconomic forecasts from Moody's, with a significant portion related to variable forecast deterioration [28] Question: Bank's policy on insider selling prior to earnings releases - Management confirmed that insider trading is governed by 10b5-1 plans, ensuring compliance with blackout periods [30][32] Question: Percentage of CRE loans out of market - Management stated that there are no immediate concerns about other CRE loans beyond those reported in Q3 [34] Question: Future opportunities in deposits - Management indicated that growth is spread evenly across various deposit verticals, with no reliance on a single category for significant growth [39] Question: Digital transformation expenses in Q1 - Management confirmed that there will be a slight tail in digital transformation expenses into Q1, but it will be managed effectively [41] Question: Trends on criticized and classified loans - Management reported no noticeable credit migration movements within the portfolio, indicating stability [45] Question: Near-term growth strategies - Management reassured that the specific reserve taken is an outlier and will not deter near-term growth strategies [47]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, loan growth was approximately $170 million, or 2.6%, with year-to-date growth exceeding $750 million, or more than 12% [3][9] - Core deposits increased by approximately $280 million, or 4.1% in the quarter, with year-to-date growth over $1 billion, or 18% [3][10] - Net interest margin (NIM) rose five basis points to 3.88%, up from 3.83% in the prior quarter [4][12] - Net interest income for Q3 was $77.3 million, up 5% quarter-over-quarter and more than 18% year-over-year [13] - Diluted EPS for Q3 reported at $0.67, with a normalized estimate of approximately $1.95 after adjustments [13][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loan originations year-to-date were $1.4 billion, with a mix of approximately 70% fixed and 30% floating rate loans [3][9] - The bank's non-depository financial institution (NDFI) book totals about $350 million, representing around 5% of the loan portfolio, with no identified credit issues [10][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The bank's asset quality remains strong, with no broad-based negative trends identified across loan segments or geographies [5][6] - The provision expense for Q3 was $23.9 million, with $18.7 million related to three loans extended to a single borrower group [6][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its presence in strategic markets, including new branch openings in Lakewood, New Jersey, Miami, and West Palm Beach, Florida [4][8] - The bank is advancing its AI strategy and digital transformation, with full integration expected by the end of Q1 2026 [5][8] - The focus for 2025 and beyond is to capture additional market share and enhance shareholder value through traditional channels [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the favorable tailwinds for the banking industry despite recent market volatility [7][8] - The bank anticipates modest further expansion of NIM due to declining costs of funds and continued deposit growth [12][41] - Management indicated that the recent provision expense is an outlier and does not reflect broader credit quality concerns [39][40] Other Important Information - The company approved a $50 million share repurchase program and paid its first common stock dividend, reflecting a commitment to shareholder returns [4][8] - The effective tax rate for the quarter was approximately 30% [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on the CRE multifamily relationship - Management provided insights on a multifamily relationship in Champaign, Illinois, and Ohio, indicating ongoing restructuring efforts [18][19] Question: More detail on the $5.2 million provision - The provision was primarily driven by macroeconomic forecast deterioration and loan growth, with reliance on third-party forecasts [20][22] Question: Bank's policy on insider selling prior to earnings releases - Management confirmed adherence to blackout periods and 10b5-1 agreements for insider trading [21][24] Question: Percentage of CRE loans out of market - Management stated that there are no immediate concerns beyond what was reported, with 19% of the portfolio in Manhattan [26][28] Question: Opportunities for deposit growth - Management indicated a balanced approach across various deposit verticals, with no reliance on a single category for growth [29] Question: Digital transformation expenses in Q1 2026 - Management confirmed a slight tail in expenses for Q1 2026, estimating it to be well under $2 million [31][32] Question: Size of credit and asset quality trends - Management detailed specific loans contributing to credit increases, emphasizing overall static asset quality [34][38] Question: Potential for margin to approach 4% in 2026 - Management expressed optimism about achieving a margin above 4% with continued efforts to control funding costs [41][42]