Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income increased by 56% to $11.1 million, with earnings per share rising to $0.46 [8][20] - Net interest income grew by 7% to $53.4 million, while the net interest margin remained steady at 8.09% [8][15] - Total loans increased to $2.49 billion, up 4% from the previous year [16][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consumer lending, the largest business line, saw total originations decrease to $197 million from $277.6 million a year ago, but interest income rose by 9% to $71.2 million [9][10] - The recreational loan book grew to $1.55 billion, representing 62% of total loans, while the home improvement loan book reached $803.5 million, accounting for 32% of total loans [9][10] - The commercial segment generated $3.3 million in income this quarter, with equity gains totaling $27.6 million over the past eight quarters [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Delinquencies for recreational loans were at 0.49%, while home improvement loans had a delinquency rate of 0.16% [9][10] - The average interest rate on deposits was 3.81% as of June [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on disciplined execution and strategic positioning to drive growth across its lending segments [8] - Medallion Financial is committed to returning capital to shareholders, having repurchased over 48,000 shares and increased dividends by 20% year-over-year [13][20] - The company is expanding its strategic partnership program, which has seen record originations of $168.6 million this quarter [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's pipeline and the potential for continued success, despite challenges in the economic environment [13][14] - The company anticipates growth in originations as it manages capital and maintains underwriting standards [42] Other Important Information - The company raised over $75 million through a public offering of non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock [6] - Operating costs increased to $21.5 million, driven by technological initiatives aimed at improving servicing capabilities [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: What were the strategic partners that you sold the loans to identified? - The loans sold were typical recreational loans, not from strategic partnerships, with a sale of about $53 million closed in April [24][25] Question: Is that going to be an ongoing thing? - The company expects to continue selling loans, although not on a quarterly basis [27] Question: Were there any non-recurring items in the quarter aside from the gains? - The only non-recurring item was a $1.3 million gain on the loan sale [29] Question: Your reserve ratio is going up. What's the thinking in terms of managing both the reserves and the capital levels going forward? - The capital increased significantly due to a recent offering, providing ample capital for growth [34][35] Question: Is there anything to call out on the delinquency trend for recreational loans? - The increase in delinquency is attributed to older vintages, but newer loans are performing better [40] Question: Can you walk us through unit economics of these strategic partnership loans? - The company charges fees ranging from 20 to 50 basis points for loans funded through FinTech partners, with higher yields compared to typical consumer loans [43][44] Question: Any outlook for loan growth, margin, and credit quality going forward? - The company expects to maintain current credit standards and margins, with potential expansion as interest rates fall [46][48]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported after-tax operating income of $979 million, resulting in an operating earnings per share of $2.58 [5] - Year-to-date book value per share grew by 11.4%, reflecting strong execution and long-term value creation [5] - The annualized operating return on average common equity was 18.2% [16] - Book value per share increased by 7.3% in the quarter [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The property and casualty insurance group achieved underwriting income of $129 million and net premium returns surpassed $2 billion, up 30.7% from 2024 [8] - The reinsurance segment generated $451 million in underwriting income and over $2 billion in net premium written, with gross written premium increasing by 8.7% compared to 2024 [11] - The mortgage segment delivered $238 million of underwriting income, with mortgage originations remaining low due to higher mortgage rates [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Competitive pressures were noted in E&S property, excess D&O, and cyber lines, while pricing in these areas appears to be stabilizing [10] - The Lloyd's and London market business experienced increased but rational competition, with strong results from long-term investments [10] - The delinquency rate for the U.S. mortgage insurance business decreased slightly to 1.93% [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on disciplined underwriting and capital management to generate superior returns across market cycles [5] - Growing presence in the small and midsized market is central to the company's strategy, with a focus on integrating new acquisitions [9] - The company aims to pursue opportunities in the property catastrophe market, particularly in Florida, where attractive risk-adjusted returns have been identified [11][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the quality and durability of the in-force portfolio, which is a core driver of mortgage earnings [14] - The company remains committed to pursuing opportunities that offer the strongest risk-adjusted returns, despite ongoing economic uncertainty [13] - Management noted that the P&C industry still presents meaningful opportunities for disciplined underwriters [8] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $161 million of shares in July, in addition to $360 million worth of common shares repurchased through the end of the second quarter [22] - The company recognized favorable development across all three segments, with significant improvements in short-tail lines in the reinsurance segment [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insurance segment growth excluding MCE - Management indicated that growth was around 2% in the quarter, with a focus on casualty lines and international business [24][25] Question: Capital return and share repurchase strategy - Management confirmed that capital return remains a focus area, with ongoing evaluations for share buybacks and dividends [27][30] Question: Adverse development from UK-Russia aviation ruling - Management acknowledged some adverse developments but stated that they were absorbed within the IBNR through short-tail lines, with no significant adverse impact overall [31] Question: Growth in the Florida market - Management noted that tort reform has positively impacted the market, leading to a drop in local companies' attrition loss ratios [50] Question: Reinsurance growth and timing impact - Management confirmed that adjusting for timing issues, net written premium growth for the reinsurance segment would have been in double digits [52] Question: Casualty pricing trends - Management indicated that casualty rates are expected to remain attractive, with single-digit trends on the primary side and double-digit on excess layers [102]

Core Viewpoint - Zacks Investment Research has initiated coverage of United Bancorp, Inc. (UBCP) with a Neutral recommendation, indicating a balanced perspective on the company's strengths and challenges [1] Financial Performance - United Bancorp has a forward dividend yield of 5.51%, with a second-quarter 2025 dividend of 18.5 cents per share, reflecting a 5.7% year-over-year increase [2] - The bank reported $6.3 million in net interest income in Q1 2025, slightly up from the previous year, driven by steady loan yields and tax-exempt municipal income [3] - Noninterest income grew 48% year over year to $1.3 million, supported by stronger deposit-related fees and gains on securities [5] Liquidity and Stability - Liquidity surged more than 85% to $36.4 million, while deposits rose to $624.1 million, enhancing lending flexibility and financial stability [4] - The bank's loan book is conservatively managed, with nonperforming loans at just 0.39% and a solid 0.82% allowance for credit losses [4] Risks and Challenges - The available-for-sale securities portfolio reported $15.2 million in unrealized losses as of March 2025, up from $12.5 million at year-end 2024, impacting tangible book value and shareholder equity [6] - Non-interest expenses increased by $0.7 million year over year, primarily due to rising employee costs, which compressed pre-tax income [7] - The company faces pressure from a shift toward higher-cost funding, including a $9.1 million increase in time deposits and a $7.1 million rise in repurchase agreements, which may narrow net interest margins [7] Market Position - United Bancorp's stock has appreciated but continues to trade below broader sector valuation benchmarks, indicating investor caution regarding long-term growth prospects amid rising costs and margin pressures [8] - The bank's footprint in southeastern Ohio and parts of West Virginia positions it to benefit from federal infrastructure investments, offering potential growth opportunities in commercial lending and community banking services [5]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the fourth quarter, the company originated $29.4 million of loans held for investment, a 5% increase from $27.9 million in the prior quarter [5] - Loan principal payments and payoffs increased by 83% to $42 million from $23 million in the previous quarter [5] - The outstanding balance of loans held for investment decreased by $13.2 million from the previous quarter [9] - The net interest margin decreased by eight basis points to 2.94% compared to 3.02% in the prior quarter [9] - The average cost of deposits increased to 1.33%, up seven basis points, while the cost of borrowing increased to 4.58% [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans held for investment decreased primarily in multifamily, commercial real estate, and commercial business loans, partially offset by a small increase in single-family loans [6] - The company continues to see moderate activity in loans held for investment despite cautious behavior from real estate investors [6] - The weighted average rate of loans originated in June was 6.69%, compared to 5.16% for loans held for investment as of June 30, 2025 [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is monitoring commercial real estate loans, particularly those secured by office buildings, with a total exposure of $39.5 million, representing 3.8% of loans held for investment [7] - The company has approximately $117 million of loans repricing in September and $98 million repricing in December, both expected to increase by 15 basis points [11][27] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims for disciplined growth of the loan portfolio, recognizing the shift in monetary policy and the reversal of the inverted yield curve [13] - The strategy includes maintaining cash dividends and utilizing stock buyback programs as a responsible capital management tool [15] - The company is focused on improving operating efficiencies to lower operating expenses, with a projected run rate of $7.6 million to $7.8 million per quarter for fiscal 2026 [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that current credit quality remains strong, with nonperforming assets unchanged at $1.4 million [6] - The company is optimistic about the future, suggesting opportunities for expansion of the net interest margin in the upcoming quarters [12] - Management indicated that the mix of loans may shift based on performance, with a preference for a balanced portfolio of single-family and multifamily loans [19] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately 76,000 shares of common stock in June and distributed about $3.8 million in cash dividends to shareholders for the fiscal year [15][16] - The company has exceeded well-capitalized capital ratios, allowing for the execution of its business plan without complications [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Has the recent uptick in prepayments shifted your view on portfolio mix or originations? - Management indicated that they prefer a 50% mix of single-family and multifamily loans but will adjust based on performance, noting recent strength in multifamily and commercial real estate [19] Question: Is there an efficiency ratio that you target? - Management stated that the current operating expense baseline can support future growth, and as the loan portfolio grows, the efficiency ratio is expected to improve over time [21] Question: Is the increased payout this quarter a function of increased competition? - Management responded that both pricing and structure are factors, with tighter underwriting characteristics contributing to credit quality [25] Question: What is the dollar value of loans repricing in the next two quarters? - Management confirmed approximately $117 million repricing in September and $98 million in December, with specific interest rates provided [27][28] Question: What is the seasonality of operating expenses? - Management noted that March typically sees higher operating expenses due to employer taxes, while July 1 sees merit increases impacting future quarters [28][29] Question: What is the range of the loan deposit ratio? - Management explained that a higher loan to deposit ratio is typical for their business model, with a recent reduction from the 120s to the mid-one teens [30][32]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for Q2 2025 was $685 million, more than double the result from a year ago, including a recognition of $380 million for the increase in fair value of equity securities still held [9] - Non-GAAP operating income for Q2 was $311 million, up 52% year-over-year [9] - The property casualty combined ratio improved by 3.6 percentage points to 94.9% compared to Q2 last year, despite a one-point increase in catastrophe losses [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial lines grew net written premiums by 9% with a combined ratio of 92.9%, improving by 6.2 percentage points [13] - Personal lines grew net written premiums by 20%, with a combined ratio of 102%, which was 4.9 percentage points better than last year [13] - Excess and surplus lines grew net written premiums by 12% with a combined ratio of 91.1%, improving by 4.3 percentage points [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated property casualty net written premiums grew by 11% for the quarter, including a 16% growth in agency renewal premiums [10] - The average renewal price increases for most lines of business during Q2 were lower than in 2025 but still healthy, with commercial lines averaging near the high end of the mid-single-digit percentage range [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on an agent-centered strategy, balancing profitability and growth while benefiting from a rebalanced investment portfolio [7] - The company is committed to profitable premium growth objectives supported by superior claim service and strong relationships with independent insurance agents [11] - The company has added an additional layer of $300 million on top of its property catastrophe reinsurance program to enhance coverage [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term direction and strategy of the insurance business, despite challenges from California wildfires [7] - The second half of the year is typically more profitable for the personal lines business, with an average improvement of eight points observed over the past five years [8] - Management noted that the underwriting profitability is expected to improve with average price increases and effective risk segmentation [12] Other Important Information - The company reported an 18% growth in investment income, reflecting efforts to rebalance the investment portfolio [16] - Cash flow from operating activities for the first six months of 2025 was $1.1 billion, down $44 million from a year ago due to increased catastrophe losses [18] - The company paid $133 million in dividends to shareholders during 2025, with no shares repurchased during the quarter [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Differences in commercial lines pricing commentary - Management clarified that the pricing for commercial lines has moved to the high end of the mid-single digits, indicating a slight decrease from the first quarter [30] Question: Comfort around recent accident year releases for general liability - Management expressed confidence in the reserving process, noting consistent approaches and favorable reserve development for recent accident years [34][36] Question: Expense ratio guidance - Management indicated that while the expense ratio was better than expected, they aim to maintain it below 30% on an ongoing basis [45] Question: Changes in loss trends - Management reported no significant changes in loss trends during the quarter [68] Question: Growth prospects between property and casualty - Management noted that while the property market is softening, their small to middle market commercial package business continues to see healthy rates [70] Question: Competitive pressures in the property market - Management acknowledged increased competition in the property market but emphasized their disciplined underwriting approach [87][90]

Core Viewpoint - CNO Financial Group reported strong second quarter results for 2025, with revenue and non-GAAP earnings per share exceeding analyst expectations, despite declines in net income compared to the previous year [1][5][7] Financial Performance - GAAP revenue reached $1,151.5 million, significantly higher than the estimated $747.81 million, marking an 8.0% increase year-over-year from $1,066.2 million in Q2 2024 [2][5] - Non-GAAP earnings per share were $0.87, slightly above the expected $0.86, but down 17.1% from $1.05 in Q2 2024 [2][7] - GAAP net income decreased by 21.1% compared to Q2 2024, while non-GAAP net operating income also fell [7][8] Business Overview - CNO Financial Group focuses on providing life and health insurance products primarily to middle-income Americans, operating through its Consumer and Worksite Divisions [3] - The company utilizes a mix of exclusive and independent agents along with direct marketing to distribute its products [3] Key Success Factors - The effectiveness of the agent and distribution strategy, prudent investment management, and product innovation are critical for the company's success [4] - The company is focusing on agent recruitment, sales growth, and the implementation of digital processes [4] Premium Growth - New annualized premiums increased by 17%, driven by a 22% rise in new life insurance premiums and an 11% increase in new health insurance premiums compared to Q2 2024 [6] - Both Consumer and Worksite divisions reported double-digit gains in new annualized premiums, with a notable increase in digital sales channels [6] Investment and Capital Management - Book value per share rose to $25.92, up 13.7% from $22.80 a year earlier, supported by a share buyback of 2.6 million shares totaling $100.0 million [9] - The company's statutory risk-based capital (RBC) ratio was 378%, indicating strong financial stability [9] Product Innovation - The company continues to innovate with new products, including indexed annuities with lifetime income guarantees and enhanced worksite offerings [10] - Technological advancements, such as accelerated underwriting for simplified life insurance, have contributed to operational improvements [10] Outlook - Management reaffirmed its fiscal 2025 outlook, aiming to improve operating return on equity by 150 basis points through 2027 [12] - The company anticipates further profitability growth through balanced business expansion and disciplined expense management [12]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted earnings per share of $1.53, which includes a one-time expense of $0.12 related to executive separation costs [5][11] - GAAP earnings were $1.41 per diluted share, with revenue in the title segment reaching $1.7 billion, a 13% increase compared to the same quarter of 2024 [11][12] - Investment income grew by 17% this quarter, totaling $147 million, driven by higher interest income and increased average interest-bearing deposit balances [7][13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial revenue increased by 33% to $234 million, with closed orders up 2% and average revenue per order up 30% [12] - Purchase revenue declined by 3%, driven by a 6% decrease in closed orders, while refinance revenue surged by 54%, accounting for just 5% of direct revenue [12][13] - Home warranty segment revenue was $110 million, up 3%, with a loss ratio improvement from 46% to 41% due to lower claim frequency [14][15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The residential market continues to face challenges, with purchase revenue declining due to home affordability issues and elevated mortgage rates [8] - In July, open purchase orders were down 8%, while refinance orders increased by 29%, indicating a strong commercial activity [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on capital management, including a new $300 million share repurchase authorization [10] - Investments in data technology and AI are expected to drive productivity improvements and differentiate the company in the market [10][47] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the commercial business outlook, citing broad-based strength and a potential acceleration of deals due to expiring tax incentives [21][22] - The company anticipates continued strength in the refinance market for at least another year, although it will eventually normalize [24][25] Other Important Information - The effective tax rate for the quarter was 24.6%, slightly above the normalized rate of 24% [15] - The company repurchased 1 million shares for $61 million at an average price of $57.95 during the quarter [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Source of strength in commercial ARPO - Management noted that commercial revenue growth was driven by higher quality transactions and a broad array of asset classes, with a significant increase in fee per file [18][20] Question: Increase in commercial refinance activity - Management indicated that the increase is cyclical, with a significant amount of refinance business expected in the coming year [23][24] Question: Durability of refinance activity in Canada - Management expects strong refinance activity in Canada to continue for the remainder of the year, contributing positively to overall growth [28] Question: Competitive environment in home warranty - Management acknowledged competition but highlighted strong results driven by lower claim frequency and effective pricing strategies [31][34] Question: Sustainability of strong margins - Management indicated that while margins improved significantly, the second half of the year may present tougher comparisons, but they expect to finish the year with improved margins [39][40] Question: Update on technology investments - Management reported progress on technology rollouts, with plans for national implementation in early 2025, aiming to enhance operational efficiency [42][47] Question: FHFA title pilot update - Management confirmed the pilot is underway, focusing on low-risk refinance transactions, and they are monitoring its progress closely [52][56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported all-time record net revenue of $934 million and adjusted EBITDA of $451 million for the second quarter of 2025, marking the fifth consecutive second quarter of record results [6][26] - Adjusted EBITDA for the Live and Historical Racing segment grew by $17 million or 6% compared to the prior year quarter, driven primarily by HRM growth in Kentucky and Virginia [27][29] - The company generated $455 million or $6.29 per share of free cash flow in the first half of the year, with a reduction in 2025 maintenance capital projection by $10 million to $80 million to $90 million [32][35] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Churchill Downs Racetrack experienced a slight decline in adjusted EBITDA by $1 million, less than 1%, due to a high prior year comparison from the 150th Kentucky Derby [27] - All HRM properties in Kentucky delivered growth in the second quarter, with particularly strong performance from Northern Kentucky and Louisville venues [28] - The Exacta business contributed over $3 million to adjusted EBITDA growth from both third-party customers and HRM properties [29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average viewership for the Kentucky Derby broadcast reached nearly 18 million, a 6% increase over 2024, with peak viewership climbing to almost 22 million, up 8% from last year [10] - Social media impressions during Derby Week totaled over 285 million, a 67% increase from 2024 [11] - Wagering on the Derby race was up 11% over last year's all-time high, with Derby Day wagering increasing by 9% [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to grow Derby Week through ticketing revenue, broadcast rights, wagering, sponsorships, and selective renovations [8][15] - A new seven-year contract with NBC will provide a $10 million increase in adjusted EBITDA for 2026, with prime-time coverage for the Kentucky Oaks race expected to enhance visibility and engagement [11][12] - Strategic investments in renovations and expansions at Churchill Downs Racetrack are aimed at elevating guest experiences and broadening appeal [16][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about continued growth in Derby Week driven by ticket revenue, strategic investments, and increased wagering [18][24] - The company is focused on building brand awareness and customer relationships in new markets, particularly in Virginia and New Hampshire [19][20] - Management highlighted the importance of capital management and disciplined allocation to support long-term growth [32][35] Other Important Information - The company is targeting to close the acquisition of 90% of the Casino Salem project in New Hampshire in the third quarter, with plans for a state-of-the-art gaming and entertainment destination [21] - The company has retained rights to the associated HRM license in Salem and is evaluating alternative uses for a second HRM license [22] - The company is working on implementing HRM-based electronic table games and has developed a new HRM roulette product [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations around pricing at the Starting Gate Pavilion - Management expects increased demand and pricing for the Starting Gate Pavilion due to positive reviews and word-of-mouth from last year [38] Question: Discussion around the New Hampshire market - Management indicated that further details will be shared post-transaction closure, emphasizing the strong market demographics and location advantages [41][44] Question: International attendance and marketing for the Derby - Management noted that thoroughbred racing is a global game and emphasized ongoing efforts to build international connections and sponsorships [49][50] Question: Federal tax bill impact on cash flow and capital allocation - Management expects similar cash tax savings for 2026 as in 2025, with a focus on strategic investments and share repurchases when stock value is not reflective of long-term potential [55][56] Question: Growth potential in Kentucky and Virginia HRM markets - Management believes there is substantial runway for growth in both states, with strong metrics supporting ongoing optimism [59] Question: Impact of prediction markets on horse racing - Management does not see prediction markets as a significant risk due to the nature of pari-mutuel wagering and existing legal protections [64][66] Question: Future M&A opportunities in New Hampshire - Management is focused on executing the Salem project but is open to evaluating future opportunities in the region [68] Question: Strategic goals for the Oaks schedule change - The change aims to enhance national visibility for the Oaks and drive attendance and wagering leading into the Derby [72][74] Question: Plans for the area between the First Turn and Sky Terrace - Management confirmed that this area will not disrupt the 2026 Derby and will be detailed in future communications [80] Question: Sponsorship relationships and growth - Management emphasized a strategic approach to sponsorships, focusing on building win-win partnerships and increasing international interest [86]

Core Insights - Popular reported strong Q2 2025 earnings, with EPS at $3.09, exceeding the consensus estimate of $2.54, and revenue at $800 million, surpassing the expected $792.79 million [1][2] - The company raised its quarterly dividend and announced a new share repurchase program, indicating a positive outlook [1] Financial Performance - EPS (GAAP) increased by 26.0% year-over-year from $2.46 in Q2 2024 to $3.09 in Q2 2025 [2] - Revenue (GAAP) grew by 8.9% year-over-year from $734.6 million in Q2 2024 to $800 million in Q2 2025 [2] - Net interest income rose to $631.5 million, an 11.1% increase from $568.3 million in the previous year [2] - Net interest margin improved to 3.49%, up from 3.22% a year earlier [2] Business Strategy - Popular focuses on personal and commercial banking, with over half of its loan portfolio tied to real estate in Puerto Rico [3] - The company is investing in technology upgrades and digital transformation to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency [4] Quarterly Highlights - Net income for the quarter reached $210.4 million, a significant increase from the prior quarter [5] - Deposit balances grew to $67.22 billion, reflecting a $1.40 billion increase from the first quarter [6] - Non-performing loans decreased, with the non-performing loan ratio narrowing to 0.82% from 0.96% a year earlier [7] Capital Position - The Common Equity Tier 1 ratio stood at 15.91%, indicating a strong capital position [9] - The company repurchased 1.14 million shares valued at $112 million during the quarter, nearing completion of a $500 million buyback plan [9] Future Outlook - Management did not provide new financial guidance but reiterated loan growth targets of 3-5% for fiscal 2025 [12] - The quarterly dividend was raised by 7% to $0.75 per share, pending board approval [13]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans held for investment increased by $223 million or 1.7% linked quarter and $374.8 million or 2.9% year to date [4] - Deposit base grew by $35 million during the quarter, with personal and commercial deposits totaling $13 billion at June 30, an increase of $103.8 million or 0.8% from the prior quarter [5] - Net income for the second quarter was $55.8 million, representing fully diluted EPS of $0.92, up 4.5% from the prior quarter [5] - Return on average assets was 1.21% and return on average tangible equity was 13.13% in the second quarter [5] - Net interest income expanded by 4.3% to $161.4 million, producing a net interest margin of 3.81%, an increase of six basis points from the prior quarter [5] - Non-interest income totaled $39.9 million, unchanged linked quarter [6] - Non-interest expense increased by $1.1 million or 0.9% linked quarter [6] - Non-performing assets declined by $5 million or 5.3% linked quarter [7] - CET1 ratio increased by seven basis points to 11.7% [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Growth in loans was diversified across one to four family mortgage loans, other loans and leases, and commercial and industrial loans [4] - Non-interest income was positively impacted by wealth management and brokerage business due to improved financial markets [55] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is monitoring the impact of tariffs and other administrative policies on its customer base, but has not seen a significant impact at this point [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on organic loan growth, potential market expansion, and M&A opportunities [13] - The company is actively recruiting talent in key growth markets such as Houston, Birmingham, Atlanta, and South Alabama [34] - The company is interested in participating in M&A activity but will approach it conservatively [35] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The company expects loans held for investment to increase in mid-single digits for the full year, revised upward from low single-digit growth [11] - The net interest margin guidance has been tightened to a range of 3.77% to 3.83% for the full year [12] - The provision for credit losses is expected to trend lower compared to the full year 2024 [12] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $11 million of common stock during the quarter, with a remaining repurchase authority of $74 million for the year [9] - The quarterly cash dividend declared was $0.24 per share [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is driving the increase in growth guidance to mid-single digits? - Management indicated it is a combination of good production in non-CRE categories and delays in scheduled maturities for the CRE book [17][18] Question: Is there potential for further profitability improvement? - Management believes there is upside in profitability due to operating leverage and potential net interest margin expansion [20][22] Question: Are there any rate cut assumptions in the NIM guidance? - Management has a baseline forecast that includes a Fed rate cut in September and December, which may impact net interest margin [30] Question: What are the company's thoughts on M&A versus organic growth? - Management is focusing on both organic growth and M&A opportunities, with a conservative approach to M&A [34][35] Question: How does the recent guidance revision impact reserves? - Management noted a slight decrease in the reserve percentage and a reduction in criticized and classified loans, which positively impacts provisioning [42][46]