Core Insights - Newity, a lender service provider, is leveraging an $11 million venture capital investment to expand its platform and enhance its artificial intelligence-driven underwriting infrastructure [1][2] Company Overview - Newity has established itself as a significant player in small business lending, particularly through its partnership with Northeast Bank, which has seen substantial growth in SBA 7(a) loan originations [3][4] - The company aims to grow relationships with more banks, responding to increased interest from other financial institutions [3] Financial Performance - Northeast Bank's SBA 7(a) loan originations increased dramatically from $2.8 million in fiscal year 2022 to $1.3 billion in fiscal year 2025, with 7,800 loans processed [4][9] - In the first five months of fiscal 2026, Newity and Northeast generated 1,460 loans totaling approximately $270 million, averaging $184,695 per loan [4] Technology and Innovation - Newity has modernized its platform using newly developed AI technology, which allows for real-time underwriting and increased efficiency without a significant increase in staffing [5][6][7] - The AI system processes up to 500 different data points simultaneously, enabling quicker loan approvals and scaling operations effectively [7] Competitive Landscape - Newity is not alone in utilizing AI for SBA lending; Live Oak Bancshares, a leading competitor, reported a 94% increase in small-dollar SBA lending in 2025 [8][10] - The advancements in technology are positioning Newity at the forefront of the lending industry, with plans to adapt its AI technology for conventional loan types in the future [7][11] Future Outlook - Newity plans to continue its partnership with Northeast Bank until at least 2029, focusing on optimizing and expanding its lending operations [11]

Core Insights - PMC FIG Opportunities disclosed a new position in Northeast Bank, acquiring 32,745 shares valued at $3.40 million as of quarter-end [1][2] Company Overview - Northeast Bank is a regional financial institution with a diversified loan portfolio, combining traditional branch banking and digital services [6] - The bank focuses on serving local businesses and individuals, leveraging community relationships and a regional footprint [6] Financial Metrics - As of February 17, 2026, Northeast Bank's stock price was $120.52, with a market capitalization of $961.47 million [4] - The bank reported a total revenue of $208.71 million and a net income of $87.18 million for the trailing twelve months [4] Recent Performance - In January, Northeast Bank reported a quarterly net income of $20.7 million, or $2.47 per diluted share, with total loans reaching $4.35 billion, up 15.8% from June 30 [10] - The bank's net interest margin for the quarter was 4.49% [10] Investment Implications - The new position in Northeast Bank represents 5.35% of PMC FIG Opportunities' 13F reportable assets under management as of December 31, 2025 [8] - The bank's shares have increased by 15% over the past year, with book value per share rising from $52.29 to $62.65, indicating tangible growth alongside earnings [11] - The investment thesis for long-term investors relies on disciplined loan purchasing and strong credit control, suggesting potential for compounding growth within a small-cap bank [12]

Core Insights - Newity has secured $11 million in its first funding round to enhance its blockchain-based lending platform aimed at small businesses across the U.S. [1][2] Funding and Growth - The funding round was led by CMT Digital, with participation from various private and institutional investors, marking a significant step in Newity's development of its lending infrastructure [2] - The funding will facilitate the transition of loans onto the blockchain, with the round structured as a simple agreement for future equity [2] Company Background - Newity was founded during the pandemic by David Cody and Luke LaHaie, initially assisting small businesses with the Paycheck Protection Program before pivoting to SBA 7(a) loans and their own Growth Term Loans [3] - The company operates as a lending service provider, collaborating with banks to originate and approve loans, rather than being an SBA lender itself [3] Lending Operations - Newity has processed over $12 billion in financing for more than 125,000 small businesses, with an average loan size of approximately $118,800 and maximum loans available up to $350,000 [4] - The company utilizes a fully digital application process, automating document management and providing dedicated support teams to streamline the lending process [4] Technology and Efficiency - Newity's AI-driven underwriting platform analyzes numerous data points to deliver prequalified loan estimates in under 10 minutes, with funding available in as little as 21 days [5] - Traditional lending timelines often exceed 12 weeks, but Newity's approach aims to reduce friction and expand access to capital for entrepreneurs [6] Blockchain Strategy - Newity plans to integrate its lending products onto the blockchain, believing that this infrastructure can enhance liquidity for credit assets and create new financing avenues for small business loans [7] - The company is exploring various strategies for blockchain integration, which is expected to improve efficiency and access to capital markets [7] Market Context - Small businesses, which constitute nearly all firms in the U.S. and employ about half the workforce, face an estimated funding shortfall of $350 billion annually [8] - Industry observers anticipate a growing trend of credit platforms adopting blockchain technology for its transparency and faster settlement capabilities [9] Company Operations and Future Plans - Newity is headquartered in Chicago with around 115 employees and is actively hiring to expand its partner, marketing, and technology teams [10] - The new capital will support ongoing development and refinement of lending models, as well as advance blockchain integration strategies [11] - The company aims to leverage AI and blockchain to enhance efficiency throughout the lending lifecycle, positioning itself for the next era of small business financing [12]

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

Financial Performance - The bank reported net income of $20.7 million, or $2.47 per diluted share, for the quarter, with year-to-date net income at $43.3 million, or $5.14 per diluted share [1] - Return on average assets was 1.87% for the quarter and 2.0% year to date, while return on average equity was 15.6% for the quarter and 16.6% year to date [1] Asset and Loan Growth - Total assets ended the quarter at $4.95 billion, with loans at $4.4 billion, an increase from $3.7 billion as of September 30 [2] - The volume of loans added to the balance sheet was just under $900 million for the quarter, including $575 million of purchased commercial real estate loans and a record $252 million in originated loans at a weighted average rate of 7.6% [3][7] Net Interest Income and Margin - Net interest income was $48.8 million for the quarter and $97.0 million year to date, with a net interest margin of 4.49%, down from 4.59% in the previous quarter [6][8] - Management noted that approximately $1.25 billion of CDs maturing at a weighted average rate of 4.05% could support margin improvement going forward [6][7] SBA Program Impact - A government shutdown and changes to the SBA program reduced SBA-related gains by approximately $6 million, equating to about $0.50 of after-tax earnings per share [5][10] - SBA originations ran about $40 million in the quarter, with a projected run rate of ~$20 million per month [5][11] Credit Quality and Capital Position - Asset quality remained strong, with delinquencies and non-accruals relatively flat quarter over quarter; the allowance for credit losses increased from $46.7 million to $63.8 million [15] - The Tier 1 leverage ratio was 12.2%, and tangible book value ended the quarter at $62.65 per share, supporting just under $1 billion of loan capacity [16]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $20.7 million or $2.47 per diluted share for the quarter, with year-to-date net income of $43.3 million or $5.14 per diluted share [13] - Return on average assets was 1.87% for the quarter and 2% year to date, while return on average equity was 15.6% for the quarter and 16.6% year to date [13] - Net interest margin (NIM) for the quarter was 4.49%, down from 4.59% in the linked quarter, resulting in net interest income of $48.8 million for the quarter [14][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company originated $252 million of loans in the national lending division, with a record quarter for originated loans [8][19] - The company purchased 152 loans in five transactions with a total balance of $576 million at a purchase price of $533 million, achieving a weighted average yield to maturity of 10.8% [19] - SBA loan originations were $39.8 million, with $25 million sold for a gain of $2.1 million [9][15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced significant loan volume, with total loans on the balance sheet reaching $4.4 billion, up from $3.7 billion as of September 30th [13] - The allowance for credit losses increased from $46.7 million to $63.8 million, reflecting a coverage ratio increase from 1.24% to 1.47% [16] - The company noted that the current pipeline for loans is as full as it has ever been, with expectations of increased loan activity driven by M&A [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to grow its deposit base in Maine, which is seen as a less expensive and stickier source of funding compared to brokered deposits [31] - The company is focusing on expanding its small balance insured business loan program, which has seen significant demand [45] - The management is strategically investing in people and technology to set the bank up for long-term success while maintaining disciplined expense management [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged that the SBA program was impacted by a government shutdown, but they expect a rebound in loan originations and sales moving forward [10][12] - The company anticipates a lift in net interest margin due to the downward liability repricing expected over the next two quarters [29] - Management expressed optimism about the loan growth trajectory, with expectations of significant net interest income in subsequent quarters due to a higher loan book [11][12] Other Important Information - The company reported a decrease in non-interest expense from $21.9 million to $20.8 million, attributed to lower professional fees and reduced loan acquisition costs [17] - The company has a strong capital position with a Tier 1 leverage ratio of 12.2% and a tangible book value of $62.65 per share [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Did the company buy back stock in the fourth quarter? - The CFO clarified that the decrease in share count was due to stock compensation activity and cancellation of shares to cover taxes, with no stock buybacks [27] Question: What is the expectation for net interest margin going forward? - The CFO indicated that a lift in net interest margin is anticipated due to downward liability repricing [29] Question: How does the company view the funding mix as it grows? - Management stated that brokered deposits will likely continue to be a main source of growth, while also focusing on growing deposits in Maine [31] Question: What percentage of purchase loans does the company typically retain at maturity? - Management did not have the exact number but indicated that they try to retain many loans, especially when rates are higher [33] Question: Will there be a catch-up in SBA gain on sale income next quarter? - The CFO clarified that they expect an increase in SBA loan volume and gain on sale income next quarter, estimating around $20 million a month [40]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $20.7 million for the quarter, with diluted earnings per share of $2.47, down from previous quarters [9][13] - Return on average assets was 1.87% for the quarter and 2% year to date, while return on average equity was 15.6% for the quarter and 16.6% year to date [13] - Net interest margin (NIM) was 4.49%, down from 4.59% in the linked quarter, resulting in net interest income of $48.8 million for the quarter [14][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company originated $252 million in loans during the quarter, with a record volume of $576 million in purchased loans at a purchase price of $533 million [8][19] - SBA loan originations totaled $39.8 million, with $25 million sold for a gain of $2.1 million [9][15] - The small business insured loan product saw originations of $70 million during the quarter [16][21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The total assets ended the quarter at $4.95 billion, with loans at $4.4 billion, up from $3.7 billion as of September 30 [13] - The company experienced a 40.3% deposit growth over a three-year period in its seven branches in Maine [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to grow its deposit base in Maine, which is generally less expensive and stickier than brokered deposits [30] - There is a focus on expanding the small balance insured loan program, which is expected to sustain its growth trajectory [21] - The company is also exploring niche opportunities for deposit growth while relying on brokered deposits to fund loan growth [30][31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the operating results for the quarter were lower than previous quarters, primarily due to the impact of the government shutdown on SBA loan activity [7][10] - There is an expectation of increased net interest income in subsequent quarters due to a higher loan book [11][12] - The company anticipates a favorable trajectory for SBA loan originations and sales moving forward [15][40] Other Important Information - The allowance for credit losses increased from $46.7 million to $63.8 million during the quarter, reflecting the purchase loan activity [16] - Non-interest expense decreased to $20.8 million, attributed to lower professional fees and reduced loan acquisition costs [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Did the company buy back stock in the fourth quarter? - The company did not buy back any stock; the decrease in share count was due to stock compensation activity [26] Question: Will net interest margin see a lift going forward? - Management indicated that a lift in net interest margin is expected due to downward liability repricing [28] Question: How does the company view the funding mix as it grows? - The company plans to continue using brokered deposits while also growing its deposit base in Maine [30] Question: What percentage of purchase loans does the company typically retain at maturity? - Management did not have the exact number but indicated that they try to retain many loans, especially when rates are higher [32] Question: Will there be a catch-up in SBA gain on sale income next quarter? - The company expects an increase in SBA loan volume and anticipates that gain on sale percentages will remain around 8%-9% [39][43] Question: How does the company see the growth of the insured small business product? - The company believes the growth rate is sustainable and is focused on selling the originated loans [44][46]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $20.7 million for the quarter, with diluted earnings per share of $2.47, down from previous quarters [9][13] - Return on average assets was 1.87% for the quarter and 2% year to date, while return on average equity was 15.6% for the quarter and 16.6% year to date [13] - Net interest margin (NIM) was 4.49%, down from 4.59% in the linked quarter, resulting in net interest income of $48.8 million for the quarter [14][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company originated $252 million in loans during the quarter, marking a record for the bank, with a weighted average rate of origination of 7.6% [8][20] - SBA loan originations totaled $39.8 million, with $25 million sold for a gain of $2.1 million [9][16] - The small business insured loan product saw originations of $70.6 million during the quarter [9][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total assets ended the quarter at $4.95 billion, with loans at $4.4 billion, up from $3.7 billion as of September 30 [13][14] - The company experienced a 40.3% deposit growth over a three-year period in its seven branches in Maine [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to grow its deposit base in Maine, which is generally less expensive and stickier than brokered deposits [31] - The current pipeline for loan origination is robust, with expectations of significant opportunities in the coming quarters, particularly in commercial real estate and small business lending [20][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged that the SBA activity was impacted by a government shutdown, but noted a positive trajectory in December and expectations for increased loan originations moving forward [16][22] - The company anticipates a higher loan book in subsequent quarters, which should lead to increased net interest income [11][12] Other Important Information - The allowance for credit losses increased from $46.7 million to $63.8 million during the quarter, reflecting the purchase loan activity [17] - Non-interest expense decreased to $20.8 million, attributed to lower professional fees and reduced loan acquisition costs [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Did the company buy back stock in the fourth quarter? - The company did not buy back any stock; the decrease in share count was due to stock compensation activity [28] Question: Will net interest margin see a lift going forward? - Management indicated that a lift in net interest margin is expected due to downward liability repricing [30] Question: How does the company view its funding mix as it grows? - The company plans to continue using brokered deposits while also focusing on growing deposits in Maine [31] Question: What percentage of purchase loans does the company typically retain at maturity? - The company did not have the exact number but aims to retain many loans, especially when rates are higher [34] Question: Will there be a catch-up in SBA gain on sale income next quarter? - The company expects an increase in SBA loan volume and anticipates that gain on sale percentages will remain around 8%-9% [42][47] Question: How does the company see the growth of the insured small business product? - The company believes the run rate for the insured small business product is sustainable, with significant demand [48]

INVESTOR CALL FY26 Q2 FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT Statements in this presentation that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We may also make forward-looking statements in other documents we file with the Federal Deposit Insurance Co ...

Financial Performance - The company achieved a record net interest income of $45.6 million for the quarter, with tangible book value increasing by $4.49 or 9% since September 30 [1] - Net income reached $22.4 million, marking a record quarter for earnings when excluding significant income from the sale of PPP loans in Q3 of fiscal 2021 [2] - Loan volume for the quarter was $361 million, including $14 million invested in purchase loans, with total originations amounting to $246 million [3] Loan Activity - The company originated $100.3 million in SBA loans, with $64.5 million sold, generating a gain of $5.6 million [2] - The average size of SBA loans closed was $110,000, with a weighted average interest rate of 10.85% [17] - In the national real estate lending program, the company closed $246 million in loans, with an average balance of $8.2 million and a weighted average loan-to-value (LTV) of just over 50% [18] Asset Quality - The ratio of non-performing loans to total loans decreased to 84 basis points from 106 basis points in the previous quarter [7] - Non-performing assets declined from $37 million to $31 million, a reduction of approximately 16% [7] Liquidity and Capital - On-balance sheet liquidity improved to $430 million, up from $379 million as of September [12] - The company's leverage ratio was 11.2% and total capital ratio was 13.9% at the end of the quarter, indicating a healthy capital position [13] Market Outlook - The company remains optimistic about the loan purchasing market, with a significant volume of opportunities expected in 2025 [16][38] - There is a large pipeline for SBA lending, with expectations for continued growth due to improved technology and marketing efforts from their lending service provider, NEWITY [18][27]