First Western Financial Q4 Earnings Call Highlights

Core Insights - First Western Financial reported improved profitability in Q4 2025, driven by loan and deposit growth, net interest margin expansion, and disciplined expense management [5][8] Loan and Deposit Growth - Loans held for investment increased by $59 million from the previous quarter, with new loan production totaling $146 million at an average rate of 6.36% [1][7] - Total deposits rose by $102 million, attributed to new deposit relationships, despite seasonal outflows [9] Financial Performance - The company posted a net income of $3.3 million, or $0.34 per diluted share, which was higher than the prior quarter [4][8] - Gross revenue increased by 1.5% from the prior quarter and 12.2% year-over-year, primarily due to higher net interest income [10] Net Interest Margin - Net interest margin expanded to 2.71%, driven by lower deposit costs and the opportunity to reprice approximately $250 million of fixed-rate loans maturing next year [7][11] - Net interest income rose by 5.6% sequentially and 21.7% year-over-year, attributed to a higher net interest margin [11] Asset Quality and Expenses - Asset quality trends remained stable, with decreases in non-accrual loans and non-performing assets [17] - Non-interest expense increased by $1.2 million due to a $1.4 million write-down on an OREO property, but excluding this, expenses decreased [16] Future Outlook - Management expects continued balance sheet growth in 2026 to be similar to 2025 levels, with positive trends in net interest margin and fee income [18] - The company aims to keep quarterly expenses below $20 million while remaining open to investment opportunities [19]