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NewtekOne(NEWT) - 2024 Q4 - Annual Report

Lending Performance - Newtek Bank was the largest SBA 7(a) lender in the U.S. by dollar loan approval volume, approving over 1billionofSBA7(a)loansduringthefirst4.5monthsoftheSBAsfiscalyear2025[30].Thecompanyoriginated1 billion of SBA 7(a) loans during the first 4.5 months of the SBA's fiscal year 2025[30]. - The company originated 943.0 million of SBA 7(a) loans during 2024 and 814.4millionduring2023,indicatingastronglendingperformance[33].NewtekBanksSBA7(a)loanportfolioconsistedof6,968loansoriginatedacross50statesin81differentindustriesasofDecember31,2024,demonstratingadiversifiedloandistribution[35].NewtekBankranksasthelargestSBA7(a)lenderbasedondollarvolumeofloanapprovalsasofDecember31,2024[59].NewtekBankhasoriginatedSBA504loanswithamaximumloanamounttypicallynotexceeding814.4 million during 2023, indicating a strong lending performance[33]. - Newtek Bank's SBA 7(a) loan portfolio consisted of 6,968 loans originated across 50 states in 81 different industries as of December 31, 2024, demonstrating a diversified loan distribution[35]. - Newtek Bank ranks as the largest SBA 7(a) lender based on dollar volume of loan approvals as of December 31, 2024[59]. - Newtek Bank has originated SBA 504 loans with a maximum loan amount typically not exceeding 5.5 million[37]. - Newtek Bank offers larger loans between 5.0millionand5.0 million and 15.0 million, targeting independent business owners with strong balance sheets and cash flow[65]. - Newtek Bank's SBA 7(a) loans allow for rapid sale of U.S. government guaranteed portions, enhancing balance sheet management and returns[63]. - Newtek Bank sells guaranteed portions of SBA 7(a) loans at premiums, historically above 110% of par value[178]. Operational Efficiency - The company transitioned all SBA 7(a) loan originations to Newtek Bank in April 2023, enhancing operational efficiency and service delivery[31]. - Newtek Bank received PLP status in April 2023, allowing expedited processing of SBA loan applications without prior SBA review[31]. - The NewTracker platform has historically received hundreds of unique referrals daily from alliance partners, enhancing client acquisition capabilities[19]. - The Newtek Advantage provides independent business owners with 24/7 access to business and financial solutions experts, integrating with Intuit QuickBooks for real-time financial insights[23]. - Newtek Bank's digital account opening platform has facilitated rapid growth in its deposit base with competitive market rates[40]. - The patented NewTracker® software enables cost-effective customer acquisition and transaction processing, providing real-time access for referral partners[64]. - Newtek Bank's participation in the secondary market for SBA 7(a) loans is regulated by the SBA, which may restrict further sales if compliance issues arise[116]. Market Position and Strategy - The U.S. independent business owner/SMB market includes 34.8 million businesses, representing a large, underserved market[59]. - Increased demand for comprehensive SMB solutions is driving growth, with a focus on electronic payment processing, insurance services, and payroll solutions[60]. - The company aims to enhance clients' businesses through its comprehensive financial solutions, positioning itself for continued growth in underserved market segments[60]. - The company has historically focused on long-term growth needs for its subsidiaries rather than immediate returns, aiming to support the development of businesses within its integrated operational platform[135]. - The company seeks to lend to businesses with strong competitive positions and appropriate capital structures to minimize risk and enhance loan performance[126]. Regulatory Compliance - The company is subject to comprehensive regulation by the OCC and the FDIC, ensuring safety and soundness in its operations[82]. - Newtek Bank is required to maintain a Tier 1 leverage ratio of no less than 10% and a total risk-based capital ratio of 11.5% as per commitments made under the Operating Agreement[94]. - The capital thresholds to be regarded as a well-capitalized institution include a common equity tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6.5%, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 8.0%, and a total risk-based capital ratio of 10.0%[93]. - The company is subject to various federal, state, and local laws governing consumer protection, including fair lending and privacy regulations[100]. - The company must comply with anti-money laundering laws, requiring significant investment in compliance programs[104]. - Regulatory capital rules limit the ability of Newtek Bank to pay dividends, requiring compliance with certain capital levels before any distribution[98]. - The company is not currently subject to the examination and enforcement jurisdiction of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) as its assets are less than $10 billion[102]. Risk Management - The company maintains disciplined underwriting policies and rigorous portfolio management, including quantitative and qualitative stress tests[69]. - A stress test is conducted on applicants' cash flow to assess their ability to withstand interest rate increases, with a focus on maintaining a debt service coverage ratio above 1:1[148]. - The company evaluates fixed assets based on net book value to determine realizable value among collateral types[161]. - The company requires a personal financial statement and tax transcripts for all owners of 20% or more, ensuring thorough credit assessment[149]. - The company emphasizes a value-oriented lending philosophy, screening potential loan opportunities for suitability and consistency with underwriting criteria[142]. Employee and Corporate Governance - As of December 31, 2024, the workforce consisted of 591 professionals, emphasizing a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace[190]. - The company aims to maintain a competitive compensation and benefits structure to retain key management personnel, which is critical for business management[189]. - The company has adopted a code of ethics to ensure compliance with Nasdaq Corporate Governance Requirements, promoting ethical practices among employees[196]. - The company has a whistleblower policy in place to encourage reporting of unethical or illegal activities, ensuring confidentiality and protection against retaliation[192]. - The company is committed to ongoing training and development opportunities for employees to enhance their skills and effectiveness[190]. Economic and Market Conditions - Global economic conditions, including uncertainty about the financial stability of the United States, could significantly impact the company's business and financial condition[214]. - Economic recessions or downturns could impair clients and negatively affect operating results[214]. - Inflation may adversely impact the company's business and financial condition[214]. - The company faces a highly competitive market for clients, which could reduce returns and result in losses[214]. - Indebtedness could adversely affect the company's business and financial results[214]. - Public health emergencies and resulting economic uncertainties could significantly impact the fair value of investments and clients[214].