Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for Q3 2025 totaled $4.9 million, or $0.85 per diluted share, an increase of 24.1% in diluted earnings per share year-over-year compared to $3.9 million, or $0.68 per diluted share in Q3 2024 [3][8] - Return on average assets improved to 1.21% and return on average equity improved to 13.0% [3] - Efficiency ratio improved to 60.7% in Q3 2025 from 66.5% in Q3 2024 [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans were flat based on period-end balances, while average loans grew nearly 10% on an annualized basis compared to the prior quarter [4][12] - Non-interest income totaled $4.1 million, an increase of $442,000 compared to the prior quarter, driven by gains on sales of mortgage loans and higher deposit-related fee income [11] - Non-performing loans declined by almost $7 million, primarily from the resolution of a large commercial real estate loan [4][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposits totaled $1.3 billion at September 30, 2025, increasing by $51.6 million on a linked quarter basis [13] - The Kansas economy remains healthy, with an unemployment rate of 3.8% and a 1.2% year-over-year increase in home sales [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains risk-averse, focusing on monitoring interest rate and concentration risk while maintaining strong credit discipline [6] - The strategy emphasizes a resilient, relationship-driven approach to navigate evolving market dynamics [18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strength of the loan portfolio and the ability to navigate market dynamics, while focusing on maintaining solid credit quality amid economic uncertainties [19][18] - The company plans to continue investing in talent and infrastructure to support customer growth [6] Other Important Information - The Board declared a cash dividend of $0.21 per share and a 5% stock dividend, marking the 97th consecutive quarterly cash dividend and the 25th consecutive year of a 5% stock dividend [5] Q&A Session Summary - No questions were submitted during the Q&A session, and the call concluded with management expressing gratitude for the support and confidence in the company [20][21]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $17.5 million or $0.84 per diluted share for Q3 2025, compared to $13.8 million or $0.65 per diluted share in the prior year period, reflecting a significant year-over-year increase [3] - Loan balances grew at an annualized rate of 3.2%, while total deposits, excluding brokered time deposits, increased by 13% annualized [3] - The efficiency ratio for Q3 2025 was 58.86%, indicating effective expense management [4] - The return on average assets was 1.27% and return on average equity was 14.57% for the quarter [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The commercial loan portfolio increased by $57 million during the quarter, contributing to a year-to-date growth of $188 million or 12.9% annualized [8] - The mortgage and consumer loan portfolios contracted during the quarter due to seasonality and disciplined underwriting [8] - Non-interest income totaled $11.9 million in Q3 2025, up from $9.5 million in the year-ago quarter [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits as of September 30, 2025, were $4.9 billion, with core deposits increasing by $148.2 million during the third quarter [5] - The deposit base comprised 46% retail, 37% commercial, and 17% municipal, all showing year-over-year growth [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue investing in its team and technology while striving to be Michigan's most people-focused bank [20] - The focus remains on growing the commercial banking segment and enhancing customer relationships [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about finishing 2025 strong and growing the customer base and earnings in 2026 [5] - The credit quality remains strong, with low levels of watch credits and historically low net charge-offs [4][10] Other Important Information - Non-performing assets increased from 0.16% to 0.38% of total assets quarter-over-quarter, primarily due to one commercial relationship facing financial difficulties [5] - The effective income tax rate for Q3 2025 was 17.3% [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide details on the new commercial banking hires? - The three new hires have a minimum of 15 years of experience, with two having over 20 years, and they were added in Southeast Michigan [23] Question: What opportunities exist from market dislocation? - The company sees ongoing opportunities for talent acquisition and commercial banking relationships as the industry consolidates [24] Question: How competitive is the environment for core funding? - The funding environment is competitive, with a focus on comprehensive relationships to grow both sides of the balance sheet [27] Question: Can you comment on the margin outlook? - The margin is expected to remain stable despite potential Fed cuts, with benefits from asset repricing and a shift in asset mix [31] Question: What is the status of credit quality? - There is one primary borrower in distress, but overall credit quality remains solid, with no systemic issues observed [41]

Economic Impact of Government Shutdown - The ongoing government shutdown, now in its 28th day, is expected to slow down the economy due to the inability to obtain necessary government approvals for various activities [2][4] - The shutdown affects a significant number of government employees, estimated at 250,000 to 300,000, who are also customers of the company [3] IPO and M&A Activity - The company had a strong third quarter with numerous IPOs and increased M&A advisory revenue, but the fourth quarter may present challenges due to the SEC being closed, hindering IPO filings [1][5] - Despite the shutdown, M&A deals continue to progress, with two deals announced recently [6] Credit Quality and Concerns - The company reports that its exposure to recent banking sector issues, including bankruptcies and fraud concerns, is not material [7][8] - Credit quality has improved post-pandemic, with charge-off rates normalizing to levels similar to 2019, which was a low point for credit costs [8][9] Private Credit Market - The rise of private credit, particularly from firms like Blackstone and Apollo, poses competitive risks to traditional banking, as many loans are now being made outside the banking system [16][17] - The company emphasizes the importance of maintaining customer relationships and providing compelling reasons for clients to choose traditional banking over private credit options [18] Regulatory Environment - The company anticipates a more favorable regulatory backdrop with the upcoming resolution of the Basel 3 endgame, which could impact capital requirements and overall banking operations [19]

Core Points - The company reported a net income of $1.68 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2025, which is a 3% increase from the previous quarter but a 12% decrease from the same quarter last year [3][4][41] - The net interest margin improved to 3.00%, up six basis points from the previous quarter and up 16 basis points from the same quarter last year [3][6][41] - Total loans held for investment decreased slightly to $1.04 billion from $1.05 billion at the end of the previous quarter [3][8] - Total deposits were $874.8 million, down 2% from the previous quarter [3][12] Financial Performance - The company’s return on average assets was 0.55%, compared to 0.53% in the previous quarter and 0.61% in the same quarter last year [5][41] - Return on average stockholders' equity was 5.17%, up from 5.01% in the previous quarter but down from 5.78% in the same quarter last year [5][41] - Net interest income increased by $314,000, or 4%, to $8.93 million compared to the same quarter last year, driven by a higher net interest margin [6][41] Loan and Deposit Trends - Interest income on loans receivable increased by $108,000, or 1%, to $13.13 million, primarily due to a higher average loan yield [7][41] - The average yield on loans receivable increased by eight basis points to 5.05% [7][41] - Total loans originated for investment were $29.6 million, a 2% increase from the same quarter last year [8][41] Non-Interest Income and Expenses - Non-interest income decreased by $86,000, or 10%, to $813,000, primarily due to a decline in other non-interest income [20][41] - Non-interest expense increased by $111,000, or 1%, to $7.63 million, mainly due to higher salaries and employee benefits [21][41] - The efficiency ratio improved to 78.35% from 79.08% in the same quarter last year, reflecting higher net interest income [22][41] Tax and Shareholder Returns - The provision for income taxes was $1.05 million, up 34% from the same quarter last year [23][41] - The effective tax rate increased to 38.5% compared to 29.3% in the same quarter last year [24][41] - The company repurchased 66,707 shares at an average cost of $15.75 per share during the quarter [24][41]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fully diluted earnings per share were $1.20, a 29% increase year-over-year and a 13% increase from the previous quarter [3] - Net interest margin improved for the sixth consecutive quarter, rising by seven basis points to 2.46% [3] - Return on common equity improved to 13.6% for the quarter [3] - Average deposits increased by 7% annualized [3] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan portfolio is balanced between consumer and commercial, with consumer loans representing 57% or $7.9 billion of total loans [9] - Commercial loans accounted for $6.1 billion, or 43% of total loans, with 73% secured by real estate [9] - Noninterest income increased to $46 million during the quarter, compared to $44.8 million in the linked quarter [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Bank of Hawaii advanced its number one deposit market share position in Hawaii by 40 basis points as of June 30, 2025 [4] - The bank's market share has grown by 600 basis points since 2005, outperforming competitors in the Hawaii market [4] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to leverage its dominant market position and brand strength to build wealth market share, particularly in the affluent segment [6][7] - A partnership with Saterra is expected to modernize the broker-dealer platform, enhancing client experience and attracting top advisors [7] - The bank is focused on improving coordination between commercial and wealth teams to capitalize on cross-marketing opportunities [7] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management anticipates further expansion of net interest margin for several quarters [5] - The outlook for loan growth remains in the low single digits, with expectations for improvement in the pipeline [32] - The company is optimistic about the wealth management segment and plans to continue investing in talent and resources [37] Other Important Information - The allowance for credit losses on loans and leases ended the quarter at $148.8 million, with a ratio of 1.06% [14] - The company recorded a provision for credit losses of $2.5 million, down from $3.3 million in the previous quarter [23] - Capital ratios remained above regulatory thresholds, with tier one capital at 14.3% and total risk-based capital at 15.4% [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Spot rate on total deposits - The spot rate on total deposits is 154 basis points [27] Question: Outlook for net interest margin (NIM) - Management believes achieving a 3% NIM is possible, with a projected increase of 25 basis points per year [30] Question: Commentary on loan growth outlook - The guidance for loan growth remains in the low single digits, with expectations for improvement in Q4 [32] Question: Changes in wealth management strategy - The partnership with Saterra is progressing well, and the bank is focused on enhancing client experience and attracting top advisors [36] Question: Capital return and buybacks - The company is likely to engage in share repurchases in the current quarter and into next year [41] Question: Credit quality in the office sector - A relationship credit in the office space was exited, contributing to the reduction in Central Business District loans [55]

Core Insights - Valley National Bancorp (VLY) reported better-than-expected quarterly results, with adjusted earnings per share of 28 cents, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 26 cents, and a year-over-year increase of 55.6% [1][10] Financial Performance - The third-quarter 2025 net income reached $163.4 million, a 66.9% increase from the previous year, driven by higher net interest income (NII) and non-interest income, despite higher expenses and lower loan balances [2][10] - Total revenues on a fully-taxable-equivalent (FTE) basis were $512.4 million, an 8.4% year-over-year increase, although slightly below the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $513.9 million [3] - NII on an FTE basis was $447.5 million, up 8.7% year over year, with a net interest margin of 3.05%, expanding by 19 basis points [3] - Non-interest income rose 6.9% year over year to $64.9 million, primarily due to increases in various fee income components [4] Expense Management - Non-interest expenses totaled $282 million, a 4.6% increase year over year, while adjusted non-interest expenses rose 3.5% to $272.8 million [4] - The adjusted efficiency ratio improved to 53.37%, down from 56.13% in the prior-year quarter, indicating enhanced profitability [5] Loan and Deposit Trends - As of September 30, 2025, total loans were $49.3 billion, showing a slight decline, while total deposits increased to $51.2 billion, up approximately 1% from the previous quarter [6] Credit Quality - Total non-performing assets increased to $427.3 million, a 40.1% rise year over year, with the allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans at 1.21%, up 7 basis points [7] - Provision for credit losses was $19.2 million, down 74.4% year over year [7] Profitability and Capital Ratios - Adjusted annualized return on average assets improved to 1.04%, up from 0.62% in the previous year, while adjusted annualized return on average shareholders' equity rose to 8.62%, up from 5.64% [8] - The tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio was 8.79%, an increase from 7.68% in the corresponding period of 2024, and the Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio improved to 11.72% from 10.29% [9]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $25.7 million or $0.50 per diluted share for Q3 2025, compared to $26.4 million or $0.51 per share in Q2 2025, reflecting an annualized ROAA of 0.97% and an annualized ROATCE of 11.45% [9] - Net interest income increased to $100.6 million from $98.3 million in the previous quarter, with a net interest margin of 4.2% compared to 4.18% in Q2 2025 [10] - The total risk-based capital ratio improved to 16.33% at the end of Q3 2025 from 15.98% at the end of Q2 2025, and tangible book value per share increased by 9.3% year-over-year [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The provision for loan losses was $305,000 in Q3 2025, with net charge-offs totaling $3.3 million, primarily from previously identified credits [11] - Non-interest income decreased to $5 million from $5.8 million in the previous quarter, mainly due to write-downs on foreclosed assets [12] - Non-interest expenses rose to $73.1 million from $70 million in Q2 2025, driven by increased salaries and benefits, including severance expenses related to branch closures [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced strong deposit growth, with 51% of new deposits coming from new customers, reflecting improved brand awareness and customer satisfaction [32] - The company reported a significant increase in loan originations, up 62% year-to-date compared to the same period last year, although Q3 originations were lower than Q2 [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance shareholder value through disciplined capital deployment, focusing on building quality assets and maintaining strong credit quality [8] - The management emphasized the importance of maintaining a competitive edge in a dynamic market, particularly in Texas, where M&A activity is increasing [13][67] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the stability of credit trends and the overall market, despite some concerns in the industry [7][29] - The company plans to continue optimizing expenses and managing its balance sheet effectively to support growth and maintain financial flexibility [45] Other Important Information - The company repurchased shares and paid down $30 million of subordinated debt after the quarter-end, reinforcing its capital position [8] - The management noted that Q3 expenses were considered an outlier and expected a return to a more typical expense level in Q4 2025 [12][44] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is driving the payoffs and paydowns, and what is the growth outlook? - Payoffs in the last quarter were about $50 million more than the previous quarter, with 44% related to collateral sales and 25% due to refinancing elsewhere. The company remains optimistic about future growth due to a healthy pipeline [20][22] Question: What are the current credit concerns and management's approach? - Management stated that they conduct stress testing and monitor portfolios closely, emphasizing a shift towards more stable C&I credits while maintaining a strong real estate loan portfolio [26][28] Question: What are the drivers behind the strong deposit growth? - The company reported that 51% of new deposits were from new customers, reflecting successful market share gains and improved customer satisfaction [31][32] Question: What are the expectations for seasonal deposit strength in Q4? - The company noted historical seasonal strength in government banking deposits, but it is difficult to predict exact amounts for the upcoming quarter [39][41] Question: What is the outlook for loan growth and M&A activity? - Management indicated that loan growth is expected to manifest in the second half of the year, with ongoing conversations about potential M&A opportunities while being cautious about maintaining a strong balance sheet [65][67]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income available to common shareholders of $20.1 million, or $0.99 per diluted share for Q3 2025, reflecting strong financial results [4] - Return on average assets (ROAA) and return on average equity (ROAE) improved to 132 basis points and 13.31% respectively, both up notably from previous periods [5] - Full-year 2025 guidance for ROAA was revised to exceed 115 basis points, up from 110 basis points, and ROAE to greater than 12%, up from 11.25% [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was reported at 1.2%, driven by commercial lending, while total deposits increased by 3.9% [4] - Total commercial loans reached approximately $3 billion, reflecting a 1.6% increase from the previous quarter and an 8.3% increase year-over-year [6] - Consumer indirect loan balances increased by 0.6% from the previous quarter but were down 4.1% year-over-year [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced strong commercial growth in upstate New York, particularly in the Syracuse region due to Micron Technologies' investment [8] - Residential lending showed modest growth, with mortgage and home equity applications up 12% and 11% year-over-year respectively [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims for profitable organic growth and anticipates raising profitability targets for 2026 [21] - A focus on maintaining a strong balance sheet and managing funding costs is evident, with expectations for incremental margin improvement in 2026 [15][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the opportunities ahead, citing strong performance and a healthy pipeline for future growth [21] - The company is preparing for potential rate cuts and expects to manage margins effectively in 2026 [24] Other Important Information - Non-interest income was reported at $12.1 million, up 13.6% from the previous quarter, driven by various revenue streams [16] - The efficiency ratio for the year-to-date was about 58%, indicating strong revenue growth relative to expenses [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook on margin and potential rate cuts - Management indicated that while margins may see a modest decline in Q4, they expect a recovery in 2026 as new loan production and cost management take effect [24][25] Question: Thoughts on share buyback activity - Management expressed satisfaction with the board's approval of the buyback, viewing it as a means to support share value [26] Question: Loan growth expectations for 2026 - Management conveyed optimism about achieving mid-single-digit growth rates in loans as they build their financial plan for 2026 [27]

Core Insights - Associated Banc-Corp's (ASB) Q3 2025 earnings per share (EPS) of 73 cents exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 66 cents and improved from 56 cents in the prior-year quarter [1][9] - The increase in net income available to common shareholders was 43% year over year, reaching $122 million, surpassing the estimate of $106.1 million [2] Revenue and Expenses - Total revenues for the quarter were $391 million, reflecting a 20% year-over-year increase and beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $375.91 million [3] - Net interest income (NII) reached a record $305 million, up 16% year over year, driven by higher commercial lending volumes and improved deposit mix management [4] - Non-interest income totaled $81 million, increasing 21%, primarily due to higher capital markets revenues and fees [5] - Non-interest expenses rose 8% to $216 million, mainly due to increased personnel and technology costs, exceeding the estimate of $209.3 million [5] Efficiency and Credit Quality - The efficiency ratio improved to 54.77%, down from 59.51% in the prior-year quarter, indicating enhanced profitability [6] - The provision for credit losses was $16 million, down from $21 million in the prior-year quarter, with total non-performing assets decreasing by 8% [8] Loans and Deposits - Total loans as of September 30, 2025, were $31.0 billion, up 1% sequentially, while total deposits rose 2% to $34.9 billion [7] Capital Ratios and Outlook - The Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio improved to 10.89%, up from 10.30% in the corresponding period of 2024 [10] - Management expects loans to grow at 5-6% and total core customer deposits to rise by 4-5% in 2025 [11] - Non-interest income is projected to increase by 5-6%, up from the previous guidance of 1-2% [12]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted earnings per share increased by 5.7% quarter-over-quarter and 24.4% year-over-year [3] - Return on assets (ROA) improved to 1.11% from 0.87% in the same quarter last year [3] - Net interest income rose by $2.4 million, or 4.3%, from the prior quarter [6] - Net interest margin increased to 3.64% from 3.51% in the previous quarter [7] - Total capital ratios remain above well-capitalized thresholds, with the tangible common equity (TCE) ratio rising to 9.8% from 9.4% [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loan balances decreased by $5.7 million, despite an increase in loan originations [4] - Loan yields in the portfolio were 5.53%, up three basis points from the previous quarter [4] - Total deposits increased by $73 million, with non-interest-bearing deposits rising by $33.7 million [5] - Investment balances decreased by $33 million due to expected principal cash flows [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average interest rate for new commercial loans was 6.67%, up 12 basis points from the previous quarter [16] - The deposit pipeline ended the quarter at $149 million, compared to $132 million in the second quarter [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The pending merger with Olympic Bank Corp is expected to enhance profitability and growth in the Puget Sound market [3] - The company aims to return to traditional loan growth rates of mid to high single digits in 2026 [25] - The focus remains on managing loan-to-deposit ratios, with a target of reaching 85% [64] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in credit quality despite economic volatility, noting no material impact on credit metrics [12] - The company anticipates continued deposit growth and a positive outlook for loan production in the upcoming quarters [17] - Management is closely monitoring the economic environment but sees no immediate threats to loan demand [27] Other Important Information - Non-accrual loans totaled $17.6 million, representing 0.37% of total loans, an increase from 0.21% in the previous quarter [9] - The company halted lost trade activity and did not purchase any securities in Q3 to preserve capital for the acquisition [6] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the spot cost of deposits and NIM for September? - The spot rate on interest-bearing deposits was 1.87%, and the NIM for September was 3.66% [23] Question: How much opportunity is there to reduce rates on non-maturity deposits? - There is potential to reduce rates on approximately $1 billion in exception-priced deposits currently costing close to 3% [24] Question: What is the outlook for organic loan growth in 2026? - The company expects to return to mid to high single-digit growth rates in 2026, with positive net advances anticipated [25][26] Question: How has competition been trending in the markets? - Competition remains strong, with pricing competition on deposits varying by geography [42] Question: What are the capital priorities post-deal approval and integration? - The focus will be on preserving capital during the transaction costs associated with the merger, with potential for future buybacks to be evaluated later [62]