Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported diluted earnings per share of $0.72, down from $0.96 in the linked quarter, with a notable $0.14 per share after-tax differential in the mortgage servicing rights fair value adjustment [21][24] - Net interest income remained unchanged at $38,500,000, while the net interest margin increased to 3.81% from 3.75% in the linked quarter, primarily due to a decline in the cost of deposits [21][22] - Deposits increased by $171,600,000 to $3,790,000,000, with the cost of deposits decreasing to 219 basis points from 229 basis points in the linked quarter [22][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans held for investment increased by $20,800,000 or 2.7% annualized to $3,080,000,000, driven by growth in commercial owner-occupied real estate loans and commercial goods and services loans [14] - The indirect auto loan portfolio grew by $7,000,000 to $243,000,000, with a decline in loans past due by more than 30 days to 41 basis points from 47 basis points [17][18] - Non-interest income decreased to $10,600,000 from $13,300,000 in the linked quarter, primarily due to a drop in mortgage banking revenues [19][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans in major metropolitan markets decreased by $18,000,000 to $1,040,000,000, with expectations of elevated early payments on loans in the first half of the year [15] - The company reported strong loan growth in the Permian market, achieving the strongest loan growth in a single quarter since entering the market in 2019 [16] - The company anticipates loan growth to trend towards the lower end of the low to mid-single digit range for the full year 2025 due to economic uncertainty [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth and selectively adding to its team across major metropolitan and rural markets [10] - A $15,000,000 stock repurchase program was authorized, with $8,300,000 spent to repurchase 250,000 shares in the first quarter, indicating a strategy to return value to shareholders [11] - The company remains cautious regarding M&A activity due to current market uncertainty but is positioned to capitalize on opportunities as they arise [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's credit quality and its ability to perform well through economic downturns, despite potential recession risks [6][10] - The company believes it has the liquidity, capital, and team to take advantage of opportunities during economic difficulties [9] - Management expects the economic growth in Texas to remain resilient, although they are aware of the uncertainties created by external factors [19] Other Important Information - The allowance for credit losses to total loans held for investment ratio was 1.4%, with a recorded provision for credit losses of $420,000 in the first quarter [23] - Non-interest expense increased to $33,000,000 from $29,900,000 in the linked quarter, with expectations that this level will be a good run rate for the remainder of the year [24][25] - Tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio was 9.64%, with tangible book value per share increasing to $26.5 [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: On deposit costs and potential for further reduction - Management acknowledged that while significant progress has been made in reducing deposit costs, there is still room for further reductions in certain accounts [31][33] Question: Loan yields and margin expansion potential - Management indicated that while there may be some room for margin expansion, it will depend on overall liquidity and loan funding conditions [35][38] Question: Elevated loan payoffs and their impact - Management noted that payoffs were approximately $10,000,000 higher in the first quarter compared to the previous quarter, but they remain confident in their production and pipeline [41][42] Question: Current hiring landscape and mortgage hiring outlook - Management stated they are actively hiring but are selective, focusing on finding the right talent rather than increasing headcount indiscriminately [48][50] Question: Concentration of loan portfolio in energy and growth in the quarter - Management confirmed that approximately 4% of the loan portfolio is concentrated in energy, primarily driven by energy service businesses [60][63]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loan balances decreased by $37 million in Q1 2025 due to elevated payoffs and prepayments, with loan yields at 5.45%, down 2 basis points from Q4 2024 [7][12] - Total deposits increased by $160.7 million in the quarter, with 95% of this growth in non-mature deposits, primarily in money market accounts [9][27] - Net interest margin increased to 3.44% for Q1 from 3.36% in the prior quarter, driven by decreases in the cost of deposits and borrowings [12] - Non-interest expense increased by $1.8 million from the prior quarter, primarily due to higher benefit costs and payroll taxes [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial lending closed $183 million in new loan commitments, down from $316 million in the previous quarter but up from $133 million in Q1 2024 [24] - The commercial loan pipeline ended Q1 at $460 million, up from $452 million in the previous quarter [25] - Investment balances decreased by $53.8 million, partly due to a pretax loss of $3.9 million on the sale of $61 million of securities [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The cost of interest-bearing deposits decreased to 1.92% in Q1 from 1.98% in the prior quarter, with expectations for further decreases due to repricing of CDs [10] - Non-performing loans improved from 0.11% of total loans at year-end to 0.09% [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue taking advantage of opportunities for growth and potential M&A, with a solid balance sheet and a strong loan pipeline [34][36] - The focus remains on prudent risk management and maintaining a strong capital position to navigate economic uncertainties [29][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about core profitability due to strong deposit growth and prudent risk management [5] - The company anticipates an annualized loan growth rate of 5% to 8% for Q2 2025, despite uncertainties in the market [77][82] Other Important Information - The company has 990,000 shares available for repurchase under the current plan, although no shares were repurchased in Q1 [15] - Credit quality metrics remained stable, with non-accrual loans totaling just over $4.4 million, representing 0.09% of total loans [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Perspective on Heritage's position among independent banks - Management believes the bank is well-positioned with specific goals for 2025 and readiness for potential M&A opportunities [34][36] Question: Details on the new team in Spokane - The new team was sourced from a larger regional bank, and the decision was based on fit and market opportunity [38][40] Question: Comments on stock buyback activity - The decision on stock buybacks is made quarterly, with no repurchases in Q1 due to stock price considerations [43] Question: Margin and deposit costs - The NIM in March was 3.45%, with the cost of interest-bearing deposits at 1.92% [48] Question: Loan growth opportunities - The company sees balanced opportunities in commercial real estate and C&I, with a focus on deposit-rich clients [62] Question: Credit metrics and underwriting approach - Management is closely monitoring economic changes and adapting their credit management strategies accordingly [72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP fully diluted earnings per share of $0.87, which represents a 135% increase compared to the fourth quarter and an 81% increase year-over-year [6] - Pre-provision net revenue for the first quarter was $9.4 million, or $1.22 per share, an 11% increase from the previous quarter [12] - The net interest margin for the quarter was 281 basis points, a 21 basis point increase from the linked quarter [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - SBA originations grew to $10 million in the first quarter, with gain on sale margins exceeding 10% [9] - Noninterest income increased by 56% to $1.5 million, driven largely by SBA gain on sale income [16] - The first quarter provision expense was $463,000, significantly lower than $4.5 million in the prior quarter [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core deposits grew by $43 million, including $28 million in noninterest-bearing deposits, while broker deposits declined by $81 million [10] - The company expects low single-digit loan growth for the full year despite a slower first quarter [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company successfully disposed of two nonperforming credits, which reduced nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets to 83 basis points [7] - The management emphasized the importance of attracting talented professionals and has added two deposit teams in the New York Metro Area [20] - The company plans to continue expanding its net interest margin and reaffirmed its net interest income guidance for the full year 2025 of $93 million to $95 million [16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the SBA gain on sale activity accelerating in Q2 2025 [9] - The management noted that credit trends were benign and highlighted the company's strong balance sheet and liquidity [19] - The company is cautious about potential changes in the SBA environment that could impact growth [52][54] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 29,924 shares at a weighted average price of $30.46 during the quarter, with 220,000 shares remaining on its authorization [19] - The efficiency ratio for the quarter was 59.9%, with expectations for improvement as net interest margin expands [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on new teams and their focus - The focus of the new teams is primarily on deposits, with some loans mixed in, and both teams have prior books over $100 million [26] Question: Update on loan pipeline and growth outlook - The company still expects low single-digit growth, with a robust pipeline despite some unexpected payoffs in Q1 [30][31] Question: Core loan yield for the quarter - The core loan yield for the quarter was approximately 6.40%, reflecting a 10 basis point expansion over the fourth quarter [38] Question: Thoughts on interest-bearing costs and margin - Timing issues affected the interest-bearing costs, with some callable brokered CDs called in Q1 leading to a one-time drag [41][42] Question: Expectations for SBA originations and fee income - Originations were better than expected, with the strongest quarter anticipated in Q4 2025 [50] Question: Share repurchase strategy - The company aims to balance share repurchases with the need to build consolidated CET1 capital, currently at 11% [72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $22.4 million for Q1 2025, translating to $0.77 per share, indicating a solid start despite economic uncertainties [4] - Net loan growth was $6.5 million, impacted by larger payoffs, while deposits decreased by $100.8 million primarily due to seasonal declines in public funds deposits [5] - The net interest margin (NIM) improved to 3.09% from 2.88% in Q4 2024, reflecting stabilization in non-interest-bearing deposits and disciplined loan pricing [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-interest income decreased by $3.2 million or 12.4% compared to Q1 2024, with contingent income in the insurance line decreasing by $700,000 [10] - Non-interest expense decreased by $746,000 or 1.5% compared to Q1 2024, demonstrating a focus on prudent expense management [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Credit quality remained strong, with non-performing assets to total assets increasing slightly by two basis points to 43 basis points, and net charge-offs remaining low at 10 basis points annualized [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to continue stock buybacks, having repurchased 221,760 shares during the quarter, indicating a commitment to returning capital to shareholders [7] - The management aims to navigate the loan-to-deposit ratio towards a target of 95% to 100%, acknowledging the cyclicality and seasonality of public funds [18][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating uncertainties related to interest rates and geopolitical concerns, emphasizing a solid first quarter performance [4][27] - The company maintains a guidance range for fee income growth of 4% to 6% for the year, contingent on mortgage banking performance [15] Other Important Information - The Board of Directors announced a $0.01 increase in the quarterly dividend to $0.22 per share, reflecting a commitment to returning value to shareholders [6] Q&A Session Summary Question: Fee income growth expectations - Management confirmed a guidance range of 4% to 6% for fee income growth, with mortgage banking performance being a potential driver [15] Question: Loan-to-deposit ratio trends - Management indicated a long-term target of 95% to 100% for the loan-to-deposit ratio, acknowledging the seasonal fluctuations in public funds [18][20] Question: Capital return and buyback potential - Management discussed the potential for buybacks, indicating that decisions will be made quarterly based on earnings projections and regulatory capital ratios [22]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP fully diluted earnings per share of $0.87, which represents a 135% increase compared to the fourth quarter and an 81% increase year-over-year [5] - Pre-provision net revenue for the first quarter was $9,400,000, or $1.22 per share, reflecting an 11% increase from the previous quarter [9] - The net interest margin for the quarter was 281 basis points, a 21 basis point increase from the linked quarter [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - SBA originations grew during the first quarter, with gain on sale margins exceeding 10% [6] - Non-interest income increased by 56% compared to the linked quarter, driven largely by $424,000 of SBA gain on sale income [11] - The efficiency ratio for the quarter was 59.9%, an increase over the prior quarter, but expected to improve as net interest margin expands [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced elevated payoff activity of $200,000,000, which offset strong origination activity of $130,000,000 funded during the first quarter [6] - Core deposits grew by $43,000,000, including $28,000,000 in non-interest bearing deposits [7] - Brokered deposits declined by $81,000,000 relative to the fourth quarter, with a total reduction of $207,000,000 over the last twelve months [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its SBA business and expects continued growth in SBA gain on sale activity throughout 2025 [6][11] - The addition of new deposit teams in the New York Metro Area is aimed at enhancing customer acquisition and deposit growth [14] - The company plans to selectively add professionals to achieve strategic goals, particularly in technology and banking [15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains optimistic about low single-digit loan growth for the full year despite a slower start [6][22] - The company anticipates continued margin expansion as maturing term deposits reprice to lower current rates [9][10] - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate changes in the SBA landscape while maintaining growth [37] Other Important Information - The company disposed of two nonperforming credits, which significantly reduced nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets to 83 basis points [5] - The balance sheet remains well-capitalized and liquid, with total assets of $3,200,000,000 [13] - The company repurchased 29,924 shares at a weighted average price of $30.46 during the quarter [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on new teams and their focus - The new teams are primarily focused on deposits, with both teams having books of business over $100,000,000 [19][20] Question: Loan pipeline and growth outlook - The company still expects low single-digit growth, with a robust pipeline despite some unexpected payoffs in the first quarter [22][23] Question: Core loan yield and margin expectations - The core loan yield for the quarter was approximately $6.40, with expectations for continued margin expansion [27][29] Question: SBA gain on sale and future expectations - Originations were better than expected, with the strongest quarter anticipated in Q4 [35] Question: Professional fees and expense outlook - Some professional fees are one-time investments that may shift into employee expenses, but elevated levels are not expected to continue [41] Question: Updates on remaining nonperforming assets - No material updates on the remaining loans, but management is optimistic about their status [45] Question: Share repurchase strategy - The company aims to balance share repurchases with the need to grow consolidated CET1 capital [52]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Trustmark reported net income of $53.6 million, representing fully diluted EPS of $0.88 per share, with a return on average assets of 1.19% and a return on average tangible equity of 13.13% [7][9] - Loans held for investment increased by $151 million or 1.2% linked quarter, with a stable deposit base and a cost of total deposits rising by 15 basis points to 1.83% [6][10] - Non-interest income totaled approximately $43 million, up 4% linked quarter, while non-interest expense declined by $419,000 linked quarter [7][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The growth in loans was diversified, reflecting increases in commercial real estate (CRE), other commercial loans, and one to four family mortgage loans [6][10] - Non-interest expense management efforts were highlighted, with declines in salaries, employee benefits, and service fees contributing to the overall reduction [8][41] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates low single-digit growth in loans held for investments and deposits for the full year 2025, while securities balances are expected to remain stable [10][11] - The net interest margin is projected to be in the range of 3.75% to 3.85% for the full year, with net interest income expected to increase mid to high single digits [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Trustmark is focused on organic loan growth, potential market expansion, and M&A opportunities depending on market conditions [11][45] - The company is monitoring the impact of tariffs and administrative policies on its customer base, indicating a cautious but optimistic outlook for growth [10][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted stable credit quality with net charge-offs totaling $1.4 million, representing four basis points of average loans [8] - The company is experiencing a solid pipeline across various business units, although some uncertainty in the market may lead to a slowdown in new origination volume [25][26] Other Important Information - The tangible book value per share increased to $27.78, up 4.1% during the quarter and 26.1% year over year [10] - The Board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.24 per share payable on June 15 to shareholders of record on June 1 [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth trends and client behavior regarding tariffs - Management discussed expectations for meaningful maturing CRE loans in 2025 and noted that many clients are considering extension options due to uncertainty in interest rates [19][20] Question: Impact of net interest margin and potential rate cuts - Management explained that a linked quarter decline in net interest margin was primarily due to seasonal declines in loan fees, and they expect low single-digit increases moving forward [27][30] Question: Credit quality and reserve build - Management confirmed that the increase in the allowance for credit losses was expected, driven by loan growth and qualitative adjustments [38][39] Question: Expense management and future investments - Management highlighted a focus on controlling expenses, with plans for a core system conversion in 2026 and a disciplined approach to managing costs [41][42] Question: Share repurchase program and capital deployment - Management indicated that the pace of share repurchases will be dictated by market conditions and loan growth, with a focus on strategic growth initiatives in key markets [44][45]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported quarterly net income of $189 million and record net interest income of $526 million, despite having two fewer business days compared to the prior period [6][36] - Loans grew by over $650 million and deposits increased by over $1.1 billion, with a net interest margin of 3.56%, which is five basis points higher than the previous quarter [7][11] - Charge-offs for the quarter decreased to 11 basis points, and the provision for credit losses was $24 million, consistent with prior quarters [8][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was 6% on an annualized basis, while deposit growth was approximately 8% on an annualized basis [11] - Non-interest income was relatively stable, totaling $116.6 million, with increases in net security gains and fees from covered call options offset by lower wealth management revenue [17] - Non-interest expenses totaled $366.1 million, down approximately $2.4 million from the prior quarter, primarily due to lower salary and employee benefit expenses [18][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-interest bearing deposits represented 21% of total deposits at the end of the quarter, remaining stable over the last five quarters [12] - The company anticipates strong loan growth in the second quarter, particularly in the premium finance segment, which is expected to grow close to $1 billion [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company announced an increase in its dividend to $2 per share on an annualized basis and continues to grow its capital ratio, with a CET1 ratio of slightly over 10% [36] - The management emphasized the importance of differentiated client service and maintaining a strong local presence to navigate economic uncertainties [40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while there is uncertainty in the market, clients remain generally encouraged about the local economy and their ability to perform normally [45] - The company is focused on proactive communication with clients to address concerns related to economic conditions, tariffs, and funding cuts [34][46] Other Important Information - The company received 14 Coalition Greenwich Awards and was recognized for best customer service in Illinois for the fourth consecutive year [36] - The tangible book value per common share increased to $78.83 compared to $75.39 in the prior quarter [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: How prevalent is uncertainty from borrowers and its impact on growth outlook? - Management acknowledged that borrowers are cautious but remain generally encouraged about the local economy, maintaining their loan growth expectations [45][46] Question: Can you walk us through the thought process on reserve changes? - The management explained that while the baseline economic scenario improved, they implemented a qualitative overlay due to spikes in credit spreads and equity market factors at the end of the quarter [52][69] Question: Any changes in competitive pricing on new home production? - Management noted that competition remains rational, with slight declines in rates from competitors, but they expect to balance this with strong loan growth [58][60] Question: How is new client acquisition in wealth management going? - The company is transitioning to a new platform that is expected to improve capabilities for financial advisors, which should enhance growth in the wealth management business [72][73] Question: Thoughts on M&A and growth through acquisition? - Management indicated ongoing M&A conversations and expressed confidence in their ability to pursue attractive acquisition opportunities [76] Question: How should we think about the source of deposit growth going forward? - Management expects to continue growing deposits to match loan growth, with a stable mix of commercial and consumer relationships [82][84]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Operating earnings were reported at 59 cents per share, with an operating return on assets of 1.04%, both showing solid improvements from the previous year [5] - Loans grew at an annualized pace of just over 5%, while deposits also grew at an annualized rate of 5% [6] - The net interest margin increased by 10 basis points over the fourth quarter, driven by lower deposit costs [6][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan portfolio saw a 7% annualized growth in Commercial and Industrial (CNI) loans, including owner-occupied Commercial Real Estate (CRE), and a 15% annualized growth in the Navitas book [15] - Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) loans experienced a 13% annualized growth [15] - Non-interest income on an operating basis decreased by $4.8 million from the previous quarter, but the run rate of fee income remained essentially flat [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposit growth was strong, with $309 million in deposit growth or 5.3% annualized, despite approximately $85 million in seasonal public funds outflow [12] - The cost of total deposits improved by 15 basis points during the quarter [13] - The loan-to-deposit ratio remained low at 78%, indicating balanced loan and deposit growth [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth as a priority for capital deployment, with share buybacks being considered more attractive than M&A at current stock prices [51][80] - The acquisition of American National Bank is set to close on May 1st, marking a significant step in the company's growth strategy [24] - The company aims to maintain a low single-digit growth in operating expenses, with expectations of modest growth in the second quarter [47] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating economic uncertainties, noting that consumer spending and employment in their markets remain strong [10] - There are no elevated concerns regarding the impact of tariffs at this time, as clients are adjusting quickly to maintain margins [10][34] - The company is cautious about potential risks in the small commercial segment, particularly with the Navitas portfolio [35] Other Important Information - The Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio increased to 13.3%, indicating a strong capital position [17] - The Total Capital Ratio (TCE) was up 21 basis points, remaining above peers [18] - The allowance for credit losses slightly increased to 1.21% of loans, with a loan loss provision of $15.4 million covering net charge-offs [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin expectations going forward - Management expects margins to increase by 5 to 10 basis points next quarter, driven by lower deposit costs and a shift in the mix between loans and securities [27] Question: Concerns regarding tariffs and borrower behavior - Management noted that impacts are client-specific and that borrowers are reacting quickly to adjust to tariff-related challenges [30][34] Question: Changes in borrower behavior and pipelines - Current pipelines for Q2 are similar to Q1, with no significant negative impacts observed [43] Question: SBA and fee income challenges - The company, as a preferred lender, has not faced significant challenges in getting SBA deals approved, and the first quarter was the largest for SBA in history [45] Question: Operating expenses outlook - Operating expenses are expected to remain in the low single-digit growth range, with some seasonal increases anticipated [47] Question: Capital deployment priorities - Organic growth remains the top priority, with share buybacks being more attractive than M&A at current valuations [51][80] Question: Credit quality and loan loss reserves - The company uses Moody's scenarios for credit loss reserves and balances economic forecasts with portfolio performance [60][66]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $17.2 million or $1.47 per diluted common share, up from $13.4 million or $1.13 per share in the same quarter a year ago, reflecting a strong performance driven by higher interest income and lower funding costs [6][16] - Net interest income totaled $49.3 million in Q1 2025, an increase of about 10% from $44.8 million in Q1 2024, with a net interest margin of 3.57%, up 25 basis points year-over-year [8][17] - Non-interest income decreased to $6.6 million, a decline of 3.2% compared to the first quarter last year [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan portfolio remained flat at $4.76 billion, up 2.2% from the end of Q1 2024, with multifamily loans at $1.59 billion and commercial real estate at $1.49 billion [9][10] - Construction lending totaled $475 million, with a healthy pipeline of unfunded balances [10] - Non-interest expenses were flat at $34.8 million year-over-year, despite investments in technology and personnel [14][21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits increased by 3.3% to $4.76 billion, driven by increases in interest-bearing checking balances and brokerage deposits [11][26] - Non-performing assets remained minimal at 0.16% of total assets, with non-performing loans at 0.07% [28][29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on executing its strategy, protecting margins, managing credit proactively, and investing in people and systems [15][24] - The board approved a new stock repurchase authorization of up to 1 million shares, indicating confidence in the company's capital position [33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while there is competition for loans, activity has decreased slightly, and they do not expect significant growth in the near term [47] - The company maintains a neutral interest rate risk posture and is prepared for potential rate cuts from the Fed [43][44] Other Important Information - The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans stood at 1.36%, consistent with the end of 2024 [30] - Total assets increased to $5.99 billion, up from $5.78 billion a year ago [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: How should the margin react without changes to Fed policy? - Management indicated that while there may be slight benefits from maturing CDs, substantial changes are not expected [38] Question: How will the balance sheet react if there are rate cuts from the Fed? - Management believes the overall interest rate risk posture is neutral, with a slight negative impact expected initially from a rate cut [43] Question: Can the company expect to remain active with buybacks given the current growth? - Management confirmed they expect to continue buybacks, depending on market conditions [54] Question: Is modest growth in expenses reasonable without any material planned expenditures? - Management stated that modest growth in expenses is a fair assumption, with no unusual expenditures anticipated [57]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Operating earnings per share increased to 52 cents, a four cent increase from the previous quarter, indicating positive operating leverage and a strong balance sheet [11] - The quarterly operating efficiency ratio improved to 56.7%, operating return on assets rose to 1.25%, and operating return on average tangible common equity grew to 15.95% [11] - Tangible book value per share increased by 13.8% on an annualized basis [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Customer deposit growth was solid, with total deposits increasing by $200 million or 3%, driven by strong growth in interest-bearing money market products [21] - Total loans declined by $182 million during the quarter, influenced by strategic portfolio management actions [22] - Commercial mortgage and residential mortgage loans showed growth, offsetting some declines in other areas [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-interest income for the quarter was $67.2 million, with fee income as a percentage of revenue at 21% [26] - The average cost of total deposits decreased by 11 basis points to 2.03% [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to execute its strategic transformation through the implementation of Fulton First, focusing on talent alignment, reinvestment for growth, and operational simplification [13] - Loan growth is expected to be in the low single-digit range for the year due to strategic decisions and the current environment [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains cautious regarding credit quality as customers navigate a volatile environment, despite improvements in asset quality metrics [18] - The company updated its rate forecast to include four 25 basis point cuts in 2025, which may impact net interest income and non-interest income [32] Other Important Information - The allowance for credit losses to total loans ratio increased to 159%, and the allowance for credit losses to non-performing loans coverage increased to 193% [30] - The company expects to incur up to $14 million of additional non-operating expenses related to Fulton First for the remainder of 2025 [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about loan growth and strategic offsets? - Management noted that overall pipelines increased year over year, but they remain cautious about the pull-through rate due to macro uncertainty [38] Question: What is the impact of potential rate cuts on net interest income? - A 25 basis point cut would be a headwind of about $1.7 million annually [44] Question: How is the credit portfolio being managed in light of tariffs? - Management is closely monitoring the credit portfolio for potential impacts from tariffs and government cost-cutting, particularly in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors [50][54] Question: What is the company's stance on share buybacks? - The capital strategy prioritizes organic growth and corporate initiatives before considering buybacks, although some shares were purchased in the first quarter [66] Question: How flexible is the operating expense guidance? - There is potential flexibility in timing for operating expenses, but management is comfortable with the midpoint of the expense range for now [73] Question: What is the outlook for fee income given market sensitivity? - Fee income growth has been strong, but headwinds are anticipated due to market sensitivity and interest rate volatility [78]