Financial Performance - As of December 31, 2024, United Community Banks, Inc. had consolidated total assets of $27.7 billion[23] - Consolidated loans amounted to $18.2 billion, representing 66% of total consolidated assets[30] - In 2024, the bank originated $870 million in residential mortgage loans, with approximately 70% sold into the secondary market[33] - The bank sold $303 million of manufactured housing loans, recognizing a pre-tax loss of $27.2 million[28] - The Bank paid dividends to the Holding Company totaling $153 million in 2024, $198 million in 2023, and $133 million in 2022[78] - The Holding Company declared quarterly cash dividends on its common stock amounting to $0.94 per share in 2024, $0.92 per share in 2023, and $0.86 per share in 2022[78] - The Bank's revenue primarily comes from interest on loans and fees, as well as interest and dividends from investment securities[135] Regulatory Environment - Effective June 2024, the bank changed its primary federal regulator from the FDIC to the Federal Reserve[28] - The Holding Company must maintain a CET1 capital conservation buffer of 2.5% to avoid restrictions on capital distributions, including dividends[80] - The Federal Reserve requires bank holding companies to pay dividends only from current operating earnings and to maintain adequate capital above regulatory guidelines[85] - The Bank is insured by the FDIC and is subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve and the CFPB[75] - The Bank is subject to examination and reporting requirements from multiple regulatory bodies, including the Federal Reserve and the SCBFI[74] - The Bank is required to maintain a minimum Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio of 4.5% and a total capital ratio of 8.0% under Basel III standards[88] - As of December 31, 2024, the Bank qualified as "well-capitalized" with a total capital ratio of at least 10%[94] - The Bank must maintain a 2.5% capital conservation buffer on top of its minimum risk-based capital requirements to avoid restrictions on capital distributions[90] - The Bank is subject to a challenging regulatory environment that restricts its activities and may increase compliance costs[176] Strategic Initiatives - The bank's business strategy includes selective acquisitions and expansion into attractive markets, with a focus on maintaining a reasonable earn-back period for any tangible book value dilution[42] - An agreement was announced to acquire ANB, which has total assets of $423 million, total loans of $312 million, and total deposits of $360 million[28] - The Bank's strategy includes pursuing acquisitions and organic growth to enhance profitability and operational efficiency[138] Competition and Market Conditions - The Bank is subject to intense competition from various financial service providers, including non-traditional and disruptive service providers[141] - The Bank's ability to expand may be hindered by its smaller size and limited geographic diversification compared to larger institutions[142] - The financial services industry is experiencing rapid technological changes, with significant investments in artificial intelligence and machine learning necessary for future success[143] - Physical branch utilization is declining, leading to increased competition from digital-only banks and disruptors, which poses a risk to traditional banking models[144] - Competition for top talent is increasing, with higher costs associated with hiring and retaining experienced personnel impacting operational expenses[155] Risk Management - The effectiveness of the company's risk management framework is critical, as inadequacies could lead to unexpected losses and regulatory scrutiny[153] - The company's ability to manage cybersecurity risks is essential, as breaches could result in significant reputational damage and financial liabilities[151] - The company faces operational risks from evolving fraud methods, including card fraud and phishing attacks, which are exacerbated by advancements in technology[146] - The company has implemented a customer information security program approved by its Board of Directors to safeguard confidential customer information[123] - The company assesses third-party vendors for cybersecurity risks as part of its vendor onboarding and due diligence processes[215] Economic Factors - Inflationary pressures have been significant, impacting purchasing power and potentially leading to higher interest rates, which pose risks to the company's financial condition[158] - Economic volatility can increase realized credit losses and decrease demand for products and services, particularly in the regional markets served by the company[159] - Rising interest rates and inflation adversely affect borrowers' ability to repay loans, impacting the company's financial condition and capital levels[170] - The Federal Reserve increased interest rates significantly in 2022 and much of 2023, impacting the company's business and clients[161] Credit and Liquidity Risks - The company faces higher credit and concentration risk due to a significant portion of its loans being concentrated in small to medium-sized businesses, which may be more adversely affected during economic downturns[171] - The company maintains an Allowance for Credit Losses (ACL) to cover potential losses in its loan portfolio, which may need to be increased due to changing economic conditions[174] - A significant portion of deposits exceeding FDIC insurance limits may increase liquidity risk during financial distress[187] - The company may face challenges in maintaining liquidity if a significant portion of deposits is withdrawn quickly[188] - A downgrade in the company's credit rating could limit access to borrowings or increase borrowing costs[186] Cybersecurity - The company faces significant cybersecurity risks due to the complexity and attractiveness of its systems to threat actors, necessitating ongoing investment in protective measures[212] - The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) oversees the cybersecurity program, reporting to the Risk Committee on key metrics and security efforts[222] - Regulatory requirements mandate that the company notify its primary federal regulator within 36 hours of significant cybersecurity incidents[210] - The company employs a layered defensive approach to manage cybersecurity threats, integrating incident response within its overall risk management framework[213] Miscellaneous Risks - Legal disputes and regulatory actions pose risks that could have material adverse financial effects or cause reputational harm to the company[180] - Political dysfunction and volatility within the federal government could lead to abrupt shifts in federal policy, adversely affecting the company's business and financial performance[179] - The company is subject to external risks such as pandemics and acts of terrorism, which may disrupt business operations and financial markets[207] - Natural disasters and climate change could negatively impact the company's results of operations and financial condition[195] - Changes in accounting standards could materially impact the company's reported earnings and financial condition[190] - The company's stock price can be volatile, influenced by various external factors unrelated to financial performance[203] - The company has provisions in its articles and bylaws that could delay or prevent an attempted acquisition, including requiring 75% approval for business combinations[205] - The company may experience dilution of current stockholders' ownership if it raises capital through equity financings, which could be at a price dilutive to existing shareholders[206]

Core Insights - United Community has been recognized for the ninth consecutive year with multiple Coalition Greenwich Best Bank awards, highlighting its commitment to exceptional service and tailored financial solutions [1][4] - The bank received one national award and four regional awards, showcasing its strengths in middle-market and small business banking [2][6] Awards and Recognition - United Community won the following awards in 2025: - Best Bank - Overall Satisfaction for Middle Market Banking in the U.S. (National) - Best Bank - Overall Satisfaction for Middle Market Banking in the U.S. (South) - Best Bank - Likelihood to Recommend for Small Business Banking in the U.S. (South) - Best Bank - Satisfaction in Cash Management for Middle Market Banking in the U.S. (South) - Best Bank - Satisfaction with Relationship Manager for Middle Market Banking in the U.S. (South) [2][6] - The bank has accumulated a total of 57 Greenwich awards over the past nine years, indicating consistent performance and customer satisfaction [2] Company Overview - United Community Banks, Inc. is a top 100 U.S. financial institution with $27.7 billion in assets as of December 31, 2024, and operates 199 offices across six states [4] - The bank offers a full range of banking, wealth management, and mortgage services, and has been recognized for customer satisfaction and as a trusted bank in the Southeast [4]

Core Points - United Community Banks, Inc. declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.24 per share, payable on April 4, 2025, to shareholders of record as of March 14, 2025 [1] Company Overview - United Community Banks, Inc. is a financial holding company with $27.7 billion in assets as of December 31, 2024, and operates 199 offices across six states [2] - The company offers a full range of banking, wealth management, and mortgage services, and has a national SBA lending franchise and equipment lending subsidiary [2] - United Community has received multiple accolades, including being a 10-time winner of J.D. Power's award for customer satisfaction in the Southeast and being recognized as one of the "Best Banks to Work For" by American Banker for eight consecutive years [2] - The bank has also been consistently listed by Forbes as one of the World's Best Banks and one of America's Best Banks [2]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings of $0.61 for the quarter and $2.04 for the full year [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - No specific details on business line performance were provided in the available content Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - No specific market data or metrics were mentioned in the available content Company Strategy and Development Direction and Industry Competition - No specific strategic direction or competitive analysis was provided in the available content Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Forward-looking statements were made, emphasizing the need to consider risks and uncertainties as described in the company's filings [3] Other Important Information - The company provided reconciliations for non-GAAP financial measures in the Financial Highlights section of the earnings release [2] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers - No specific questions and answers from the Q&A session were provided in the available content

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT This Investor Presentation contains "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. In general, forward-looking statements usually may be identified through use of words such as "may," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "will," "should," "plan," "estimate," "predict," "continue" and "potential," or the negative of these terms or other comparable termino ...

Financial Performance - Diluted earnings per share were $0.61 (GAAP) and $0.63 (operating), with a return on assets of 1.06% (GAAP) and 1.01% (operating)[10] - The efficiency ratio improved to 56.1% (GAAP) and 55.2% (operating), indicating better operational performance[11] - The company maintains a strong capital position with a Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio of 13.2%[34] - The net interest margin was reported at 3.26%, reflecting the company's effective interest rate management[10] - The operating efficiency ratio improved to 55.2%, down from the prior quarter and year, indicating enhanced operational efficiency[49] - Noninterest income on a GAAP basis rose by $32.4 million to $40.5 million, primarily due to the bond restructuring in 4Q23[45] - Diluted earnings per share (EPS) increased from $0.11 in 4Q23 to $0.61 in 4Q24, reflecting a strong performance improvement[88] - Return on assets (ROA) improved from 0.18% in 4Q23 to 1.06% in 4Q24, indicating enhanced profitability[90] - The efficiency ratio decreased from 66.33% in 4Q23 to 56.05% in 4Q24, demonstrating better cost management[90] - Tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio increased from 8.36% in 4Q23 to 8.97% in 4Q24, indicating a stronger capital position[90] - The book value per share increased from $26.52 in 4Q23 to $27.87 in 4Q24, reflecting growth in shareholder equity[88] - The company reported a loss on the sale of manufactured housing loans of $27,209 thousand in 3Q24, which was not repeated in subsequent quarters[88] - The return on tangible common equity (ROTE) improved from 10.58% in 4Q23 to 12.12% in 4Q24, indicating better returns for shareholders[90] - The company experienced a goodwill impairment loss of $5,100 thousand in 2Q24, impacting overall earnings[88] Asset and Loan Management - Total assets reached $27.7 billion, with total deposits at $23.5 billion and total loans at $18.2 billion[8] - Customer deposits increased by $213 million, or 3.7% annualized, from Q3 2024, with public funds up $414 million seasonally[20] - Loan growth was 4.7% annualized, primarily driven by commercial and industrial (C&I) loans, equipment finance, and home equity lines of credit (HELOC)[30] - Approximately $8.0 billion, or 44%, of total loans are variable rate and reprice or mature within one year[41] - Nonperforming assets were 0.64% of total loans, flat from 3Q24, while past due loans improved to 0.17%[53] - The total outstanding loans in the office portfolio amount to $841.3 million, representing 4.6% of total loans, with an average loan size of $1.4 million[66] - The top 100 loans in the office portfolio account for $501 million, or 60% of the total office portfolio[65] - The multi-family portfolio has an outstanding balance of $977.2 million, which is 5.4% of total loans, with an average loan size of $2.8 million[73] - The top 100 loans in the multi-family portfolio total $889.5 million, representing 91% of the total multi-family portfolio[71] - The senior care portfolio has an outstanding balance of $311.9 million, which is 1.7% of total loans, with an average loan size of $7.1 million[75] - The average loan-to-value (LTV) ratio for the office portfolio is 62.0%, while the multi-family portfolio has a weighted average LTV of 49.6%[65][70] Interest and Deposit Management - Time deposits are set to mature significantly, with 51% maturing in Q1 2025 at an average rate of 4.14%[21] - The average deposit costs decreased to 2.20% in 4Q24, down from 2.35% in 3Q24[59] - 4Q24 net interest revenue increased by $1.1 million from 3Q24, reaching $210.3 million, while the core net interest margin decreased by 7 basis points to 3.19%[41] Strategic Acquisitions - The acquisition of ANB Holdings, Inc. is expected to close in Q2 2025, adding approximately $440 million in assets and $375 million in deposits[9] - The company plans to close the ANB acquisition in 2Q25, expecting a tangible book value decrease of approximately $0.13 and a CET1 decrease of 7 basis points[38] Awards and Recognition - The company received 15 Greenwich Excellence Awards for outstanding performance in small business and middle market banking in 2023[8] Charge-offs and Credit Losses - Net charge-offs for 4Q24 were $9.5 million, or 0.21% of loans annualized, with Navitas losses contributing 0.13%[53] - The allowance for credit losses (ACL) remained stable at 1.20% of the portfolio, with a provision of $11.4 million covering charge-offs and loan growth[57]

GREENVILLE, S.C., Jan. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- United Community Banks, Inc. (NYSE:UCB) (United) today announced net income for the fourth quarter of 2024 of $75.8 million and pre-tax, pre-provision income of $108 million. Diluted earnings per share of $0.61 for the quarter represented an increase of $0.50 from the fourth quarter a year ago and an increase of $0.23 from the third quarter of 2024. As previously reported, the fourth quarter of 2023 included a loss from restructuring our investment securit ...

GREENVILLE, S.C., Jan. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- United Community Banks, Inc. (NYSE: UCB) (United) today announced net income for the fourth quarter of 2024 of $75.8 million and pre-tax, pre-provision income of $108 million. Diluted earnings per share of $0.61 for the quarter represented an increase of $0.50 from the fourth quarter a year ago and an increase of $0.23 from the third quarter of 2024. As previously reported, the fourth quarter of 2023 included a loss from restructuring our investment securi ...

GREENVILLE, S.C., Jan. 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- United Community Banks, Inc. (NYSE: UCB) announces it will release its fourth quarter 2024 financial results on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, before the stock market opens. The company also will hold a conference call at 9:00 a.m. EST on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, to discuss its financial results, business highlights, and outlook. Participants can pre-register for the conference call by navigating to https://dpregister.com/sreg/10195478/fe2fad701a. Those ...

GREENVILLE, S.C., Dec. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- United Community Banks, Inc. (NYSE: UCB) (“United”) and ANB Holdings, Inc. (“ANB”) announced today the execution of a definitive merger agreement (the “Merger Agreement”) pursuant to which United will acquire ANB, and its wholly-owned subsidiary, American National Bank (“ANB Bank”), in an all-stock transaction with an aggregate value of approximately $80 million (the “Merger”). ANB Bank is headquartered in Oakland Park, Florida, a northern and fast-growing ...