UBFO's Q3 Earnings Rise Y/Y on Higher Net Interest Income

Core Viewpoint - United Security Bancshares demonstrated a positive earnings response for Q3 2025, with a notable increase in net income and net interest margin, despite some declines in total interest income and noninterest income [1][3][4]. Financial Performance - Earnings per share (EPS) for Q3 2025 was reported at 23 cents, an increase from 22 cents in the same quarter last year [2]. - Total interest income slightly declined by 0.8% to $15.6 million from $15.8 million year-over-year, while net interest income rose by 5.1% to $12.4 million, up from $11.8 million [3]. - Net income increased by 5.1% to $4 million from $3.8 million in the prior year [3]. Key Business Metrics - Net interest margin improved to 4.35% from 4.20% year-over-year, driven by reduced costs of deposits and short-term borrowings [4]. - The cost of funds decreased to 1.1% from 1.4%, contributing to improved profitability [4]. - Return on average assets (ROAA) rose to 1.3% from 1.2%, and return on average equity (ROAE) increased to 11.7% from 11.6% [4]. Income Sources - Loan interest and fees fell by 0.9% year-over-year to $14.3 million, while noninterest income decreased by 20% to $1.6 million, primarily due to lower gains from fair value adjustments of junior subordinated debentures [5]. - Non-interest expenses increased by 4.1% to $7.4 million, reflecting higher technology, salary, and benefits costs [5]. Management Insights - The CEO expressed optimism regarding loan growth and the bank's equity position, noting a $7 million increase in shareholder equity after dividends [6]. - A decrease in student loan charge-offs was observed, indicating an improving credit environment [6]. Performance Drivers - Quarterly profitability improvements were attributed to lower short-term borrowing costs and a reduction in credit loss provisions, which fell to $1 million from $1.6 million year-over-year [7]. - A $0.2 million gain from a $3 million partial redemption of TruPS contributed positively to noninterest income [7]. Broader Developments - Net interest income benefited from increased earnings from overnight investments at the Federal Reserve and reduced funding costs [8]. - Average loan rates dipped slightly to 5.92% from 6.04%, but this was offset by a decrease in liability costs [8]. Other Notable Events - The company completed a $3 million partial redemption of its TruPS, reducing the contractual balance to $9 million [9]. - A cash dividend of 12 cents per share was declared, payable on October 21, 2025 [9]. - Other real estate owned (OREO) increased to $7.9 million from $4.6 million at year-end 2024, mainly due to foreclosures, although total nonperforming assets decreased to $14.1 million from $17.2 million [10].