Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q3 2025, diluted earnings per share increased to $0.96 from $0.86 in the linked quarter, primarily due to a reduction in provision for credit losses and an increase in net interest income [18] - Net interest income rose to $43 million from $42.5 million in the linked quarter, while the net interest margin (NIM) was 4.05%, slightly down from 4.07% [18][19] - The consolidated common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio was 14.41%, and the Tier 1 leverage ratio was 12.37% as of September 30, 2025 [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans held for investment decreased by $45.5 million to $3.05 billion, primarily due to a $46.5 million decrease in multifamily property loans [9] - The indirect auto loan portfolio remained relatively unchanged at $239 million, down from $296 million a year ago, with a focus on maintaining credit quality [13][15] - Non-interest income for Q3 was $11.2 million, down from $12.2 million in the linked quarter, mainly due to a decrease in mortgage banking revenues [16][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposits increased by $142.2 million to $3.88 billion, with significant growth in non-interest-bearing deposits, which rose to $50.7 million [19] - The non-interest-bearing deposit-to-total deposit ratio increased to 27% from 26.7% in the linked quarter [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to grow its lending team by up to 20% to enhance loan growth, with a focus on organic growth and potential M&A opportunities [5][7] - The management is optimistic about accelerating loan growth in 2026, despite current headwinds from higher-than-normal loan paydowns [5][16] - The company is actively engaging in discussions with potential acquisition targets that align with its conservative nature and culture [6][54] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the bank's strong financial position and the potential for organic growth, while also being cautious about economic conditions [4][21] - The management noted that while there have been challenges, such as increased loan paydowns, they expect these to moderate in the coming year [9][16] - The company remains focused on maintaining asset quality and is prepared for varying economic conditions [21] Other Important Information - The company redeemed $50 million in subordinated debt, which was done to avoid higher interest rates as the debt was transitioning to a floating rate [22] - The tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio was 10.25%, an increase of 27 basis points from the previous quarter [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Plans for increasing the lending team - The company plans to increase its lending team by up to 20%, with a current base of about 40 lenders, focusing solely on production staff [27][30] Question: Growth in specific markets - Growth is expected in the Permian, Houston, and Dallas MSA markets [30] Question: Concerns about subprime loan concentration - Management clarified that there has not been a significant increase in subprime loans, and any changes in credit scores are being monitored closely [33][34] Question: Impact of redeemed subordinated debt - The $50 million subordinated debt was redeemed to avoid an increase in interest payments, with no additional expenses incurred from the redemption [36][38] Question: Vulnerability of the commercial real estate book - Management acknowledged that while there are scheduled payoffs, they are not lowering credit standards and are focused on finding new business [88]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net interest income increased by $1.5 million compared to the second quarter and by $5 million year-over-year [4] - Net income rose by $3.5 million, or 43%, compared to Q3 of 2024 [5] - Return on average assets improved by 28 basis points to 1.16% compared to 0.88% in the third quarter of last year [5] - Earnings per share increased to $0.47 in the third quarter, a 46% increase compared to Q3 a year ago [5] - Return on tangible common equity was reported at 12.35% [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans increased by $47 million for the second quarter, or 5.6% annualized, and grew by $286 million, or over 9%, year-over-year [8] - C&I loans grew by $194 million, and owner-occupied commercial real estate loans increased by $40 million [8] - Specialized lending groups now constitute 16% of total loans, with no single niche exceeding 5% of total loans [5] - Non-performing assets declined to 36 basis points compared to 40 basis points at June 30 and 47 basis points one year ago [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposit balances increased by over $55 million during the quarter, or an annualized 7% [9] - Average cost of deposits declined by 3 basis points to 2.69% for the quarter [15] - Average non-interest-bearing deposits grew by $21 million during the quarter and by $52 million year-to-date [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is evolving into a middle-market commercial bank, focusing on relationship-driven strategies rather than growth for its own sake [19] - New branch openings and strategic closures are part of the company's efforts to optimize its branch network [17] - The company aims to maintain a balance between growing deposits and managing costs effectively [19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The economic outlook remains uncertain, but the company is well-positioned for various rate environments [7] - Management is focused on maintaining credit quality despite some softness in the small business segment [6] - The company anticipates a modest increase in expenses due to new branches but aims to keep overall costs flat [35] Other Important Information - Non-interest income totaled $2.4 million in Q3 2025, down from $2.7 million in Q2 [12] - The efficiency ratio improved to 52%, remaining below 60% for the 25th consecutive quarter [13] - The company repurchased almost 120,000 shares at an average price of $14.91 during the quarter [7] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on expenses and efficiency actions - Management highlighted ongoing focus on cost control while balancing investment opportunities, with no major new costs anticipated [32][33] Question: Insights on margin and deposit costs following Federal Reserve cuts - Management indicated that adjustments to deposit costs will be made in response to Federal Reserve actions, aiming for a neutral impact on margins [39][40] Question: Capital levels and buyback considerations - The company maintains a soft limit on total risk-based capital ratio around 11.5% and is open to various capital deployment strategies, including buybacks [44][45]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net interest income increased by $1,000,000 compared to the second quarter and by $5,000,000 year-over-year [4] - Net income rose by $3,500,000 or 43% compared to 2024 [5] - Earnings per share improved to $0.47, a 46% increase compared to Q3 of the previous year [6] - Return on average assets improved by 28 basis points to 1.16% compared to 0.88% in the third quarter of last year [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans increased by $47,000,000 for the second quarter or 5.6% annualized, with a total growth of $286,000,000 or over 9% year-over-year [9] - The combined ratio of commercial and industrial (C&I) and owner-occupied commercial real estate loans is now 42.2% of total loans, up from 40% a year ago [10] - Specialized lending groups now account for 16% of total loans, with no single niche exceeding 5% [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposit balances increased by over $55,000,000 during the quarter, reflecting an annualized growth rate of 7% [11] - Average cost of deposits declined by three basis points to 2.69% for the quarter [20] - Nonperforming assets (NPAs) to total assets declined to 36 basis points compared to 40 basis points at the end of the previous quarter [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is evolving into a middle-market commercial bank, focusing on relationship-driven strategies rather than growth for the sake of growth [18][25] - The branch strategy includes opening new branches while consolidating others to optimize the network [22][23] - The company aims to maintain strong capital ratios while exploring opportunities for shareholder value through investments and share buybacks [18][56] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The economic outlook remains uncertain, but the company is well-positioned for various rate environments [8] - Management is focused on maintaining credit quality despite some softness in the small business segment [7][30] - The company anticipates a modest increase in expenses due to new branches but aims to keep overall costs flat [44] Other Important Information - The efficiency ratio improved to 52%, remaining below 60% for the 25th consecutive quarter [17] - The company repurchased almost 120,000 shares at an average price of $14.91 during the quarter [7] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on expenses and efficiency actions taken - Management emphasized ongoing cost control while balancing investment opportunities, with no major new costs anticipated [37][40] Question: Near-term run rate expectations - Management indicated that any increase in expenses due to new branches would be modest and not significant [46][47] Question: Margin and deposit cost reductions - Management stated that adjustments to deposit costs would be made in response to Fed rate changes, aiming for a neutral impact on margins [48][49] Question: Government portfolio deposits - Approximately 12% to 13% of total deposits are tied to the effective funds rate, allowing for immediate adjustments with Fed changes [53] Question: Share buyback considerations and capital levels - The company maintains a soft limit on total risk-based capital ratios and is open to various capital deployment strategies, including buybacks [55][56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Reported net income available to common shareholders was $89.2 million, with earnings per common share at $0.63. Adjusted operating earnings available to common shareholders were $119.7 million or $0.84 per common share, resulting in an adjusted operating return on tangible common equity of 20.1% and an adjusted operating return on assets of 1.3% [15][16] - Total allowance for credit losses decreased to $320 million, down approximately $22.4 million from the second quarter, with net charge-offs increasing to $38.6 million or 56 basis points annualized [16][17] - Tax equivalent net interest income was $323.6 million, a decrease of $2.1 million from the second quarter, with a steady net interest margin at 3.83% [18][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Quarterly loan growth was approximately 0.5% annualized, with average loan growth quarter over quarter at 4.3% annualized. The company expects year-end loan balances to range between $27.7 billion and $28 billion [6][8] - Non-interest income decreased by $29.7 million to $51.8 million, primarily due to a pretax loss related to the final CRE loan sale settlement [20] - Adjusted operating non-interest income increased by $5.1 million to $56.6 million, driven by higher loan-related interest rate swap fees and increased equity method investment income [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company maintains a well-diversified portfolio, with approximately 23% of total loans in the Washington metro area and 77% across a broader footprint. Non-performing assets as a percentage of loans held for investment remained low at 0.49% [10][11] - The unemployment rate in Maryland to Virginia stood at 3.6%, below the national average of 4.3%, indicating resilience in the market despite government employment reductions and shutdown concerns [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The integration of Sandy Spring Bank is progressing smoothly, with expectations to achieve cost-savings targets and enhanced earnings power visible on a reported basis by 2026 [4][5] - The company aims to deliver sustainable growth and top-tier financial performance, leveraging strategic advantages gained from the Sandy Spring acquisition and continued organic growth opportunities [5][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in asset quality, reaffirming the forecast for the full year 2025 net charge-off ratio to be between 15 and 20 basis points [10] - The company anticipates mid-single-digit loan growth for 2026, with potential for high single-digit growth in a more normalized environment [33][34] Other Important Information - The company paid a common stock dividend of $0.34 per share, an increase of 6.3% from the previous year's third quarter dividend amount [24] - Full-year projections include net interest income between $1.16 billion and $1.165 billion, with an expected net interest margin for the full year between 3.75% and 3.8% [25][26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook for 2026 - Management expects mid-single-digit loan growth for 2026, with potential for high single-digit growth in a normalized environment, supported by strong pipelines and new client acquisition [33][34] Question: Expense outlook and efficiency ratio - The efficiency ratio is expected to be in the mid-40s for 2026, with a focus on maintaining a flat expense base while expanding in North Carolina [35][36] Question: Credit health and trends - Overall credit trends are positive, with low non-performing assets and past dues. The two charge-offs were isolated events, and management remains confident in the portfolio's health [60][61]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Horizon Bancorp Inc. reported net interest margin expansion for the eighth consecutive quarter, with an exit run rate in September above 4% [5][16] - The net interest margin increased by 29 basis points to 3.52% for the quarter, with expectations to expand further in Q4 to a range of 4.15% to 4.25% [19][26] - The allowance for credit losses decreased to $50.2 million, representing an allowance to credit loss to loans held for investment of 1.04% [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net loan total for investment decreased to $162 million, primarily due to a $210 million impact from the runoff and sale of indirect auto loans, while commercial loans grew by $58 million [9][10] - The combined relationship-based fee income categories of service charges, card, and mortgage income increased from the previous quarter [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The core relationship balances in the deposit portfolio remained resilient despite planned outflows from higher-rate transactional accounts [14] - The company anticipates a decline in deposit balances in Q4, primarily due to the targeted reduction of high-cost non-relationship balances [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on creating durable returns and sustainable long-term value for shareholders through disciplined capital management and profitable loan growth [6][30] - Horizon Bancorp Inc. is considering M&A opportunities that are accretive to its community banking platform, with a focus on franchises that enhance profitability [37][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in delivering superior community banking performance and capital generation metrics moving into 2026 [6][30] - The company is monitoring economic conditions closely, with future provision expenses driven by anticipated loan growth and credit quality trends [12] Other Important Information - The company executed a balance sheet restructuring that exceeded initial expectations, optimizing securities and loan portfolios [4][6] - Non-interest income was impacted by a $299 million loss in the sale of securities and a $7.7 million loss on the sale of the indirect auto loan portfolio [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the new narrative for Horizon Bancorp Inc.? - Management indicated that the company is positioned to generate capital at a greater pace and will focus on measured deployment strategies for growth, including potential M&A opportunities [35][36] Question: Are there any other potential outlets for capital outside of organic loan growth and M&A? - Management confirmed that M&A will be a focus, targeting franchises that add to the current profitable platform, with potential sizes ranging from $300 million to several billion dollars [38][40] Question: How does the company support its rate-neutral position? - Management explained that while the balance sheet is modestly asset-sensitive, they do not expect significant impacts from rate changes due to their deposit positioning [44][45] Question: What are the trends in credit quality? - Management noted that non-performing loans increased slightly, but overall credit quality remains satisfactory, with no significant areas of stress identified [70][74] Question: What is the outlook for loan growth in 2026? - Management anticipates mid-single-digit growth primarily from organic commercial growth, with no immediate need for significant headcount increases [87][88]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $35.3 million or $0.92 of earnings per diluted share for the third quarter, with adjusted net income increasing 30% annualized over the prior quarter to $36.6 million or $0.96 per diluted share [6][7] - The return on tangible common equity was 14.72%, achieved while maintaining a high level of capital [4] - The fully taxable equivalent net interest margin expanded three basis points during the third quarter to 3.98%, with an annualized growth of 11 basis points compared to the same quarter last year [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan fundings for the quarter totaled $421 million, bringing total year-to-date loan fundings to $1 billion, with quarterly loan fundings increasing each quarter of 2023 [7][8] - Non-interest income for the third quarter totaled $20.7 million, which is 21% higher than the second quarter and 13% higher than the third quarter of last year [10] - Non-interest expense totaled $67.2 million, including $1.7 million of acquisition expenses and $6.2 million of 2Unify expenses [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits ended the quarter $202 million higher than the prior quarter, with average deposits holding steady at $8.2 billion [10] - The cost of deposits totaled 2.08%, while the total cost of funds was 2.1% [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company announced a merger with Vista Bankshares, which is expected to close in the first quarter, and management is optimistic about the strategic value of this transaction [5][13] - The company is focused on maintaining pricing discipline, which has resulted in solid margin expansion [8] - The launch of 2Unify is seen as a significant step forward, with plans to provide revenue guidance in the next quarterly earnings call [11][17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the quality of new loan production and the strength of new relationships, despite headwinds from loan payoffs in the commercial real estate (CRE) portfolio [4][5] - Credit quality improved during the quarter, with a 20% reduction in non-performing loans [9] - Management is prepared to adjust deposit rates in response to potential Fed rate cuts, indicating a proactive approach to managing interest margins [22][23] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with a strong tangible common equity (TCE) ratio of 10.6% and a common equity Tier 1 ratio of 14.7% [12] - The tangible book value per share grew 12% annualized to $27.45 [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the margin and expected impacts of rate cuts? - Management indicated that the third quarter's margin was positively impacted by recoveries and that they are prepared to adjust deposit rates in line with Fed actions [21][22] Question: What are the expectations for loan growth in Q4? - Management noted that the reduction in loan volume was not driven by directive paydowns and expressed optimism about the loan pipeline for Q4 [32][34] Question: How much are 2Unify expenses expected to be in Q4? - Expected 2Unify expenses for Q4 are in the range of $7 million to $9 million, accounting for increased marketing and variable costs [37] Question: What are the opportunities from the Vista acquisition? - Management highlighted the potential for growth in treasury management and wealth management services, leveraging the strengths of both organizations [55][56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - TrustCo Bank Corp NY reported a net income of $16.3 million for Q3 2025, representing a 26.3% increase compared to Q3 2024, with a return on average assets of 1.02% and return on average equity of 9.29% [8][9] - The efficiency ratio improved by almost 9% year-over-year, indicating enhanced operational efficiency [5] - The consolidated equity-to-assets ratio was 10.90% for Q3 2025, slightly down from 10.95% in Q3 2024 [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average loans grew by 2.5% or $125.9 million to $5.2 billion, with home equity loans increasing by $59.9 million or 15.7% [10][15] - Residential real estate loans increased by $34 million or 0.8%, while average commercial loans rose by $34.6 million or 12.4% [10] - Non-performing loans decreased to $18.5 million from $19.4 million year-over-year, with non-performing loans to total loans at 0.36% [9][18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits reached $5.5 billion, up $217 million compared to the prior year, reflecting strong customer confidence [11] - The net interest margin for Q3 2025 was 2.79%, an increase of 18 basis points from the prior year [12] - The yield on interest-earning assets increased to 4.25%, while the cost of interest-bearing liabilities decreased to 1.9% [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to build long-term shareholder value through disciplined share repurchase programs, having repurchased nearly half of the approved one million shares [7] - TrustCo Bank Corp NY focuses on maintaining high-quality underwriting standards and conservative lending practices to manage credit risk effectively [10][17] - The company is exploring expansion opportunities in Pasco County, Florida, and other locations in downstate New York [31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the bank's competitive deposit offerings and the potential for net interest income upside due to maturing CDs [26][27] - The real estate market remains strong, contributing to recoveries and demand for loans, particularly in home equity lending [28][29] - The bank is well-positioned to continue delivering strong financial performance despite potential easing from the Federal Reserve [12] Other Important Information - The wealth management division had approximately $1.25 billion in assets under management, contributing significantly to non-interest income [13][14] - Total non-interest expense was $26.2 million, slightly down from the prior year, indicating effective cost management [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you quantify the expected net interest income upside? - The highest rate offered is 4% for a three-month CD, with about $1 billion in CDs maturing over the next six months, expected to reprice favorably [26][27] Question: How many homes relate to the recoveries mentioned? - The $194,000 in recoveries corresponds to approximately five properties, indicating a strong real estate market with high demand [28][29] Question: What are the plans for branch expansion? - The company is considering expansion in Pasco County, Florida, and is also looking for opportunities in downstate New York [30][31]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings of $140.9 million, translating to an EPS of $2.22 per diluted share for Q3 2025, reflecting a solid foundation for future growth [4] - Total outstanding loan balances increased by 2.4% sequentially, adding nearly $1.2 billion over the past two quarters [4][7] - Net interest margin expanded by 11 basis points, with core net interest income increasing by $11.3 million [5][14] - Fee income grew by 3.6% sequentially, contributing to overall performance [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The core commercial and industrial (CNI) loan portfolio grew by 1.4% quarter over quarter, while the commercial real estate (CRE) business increased by 4.2% [7][8] - The specialty lending portfolio saw a slight increase, with healthcare loans up by 1.8% driven by strong origination activity [8] - Investment banking revenue reached a record of $16.1 million, primarily due to municipal bond underwriting activity [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Assets under management (AUMA) grew by 4.1% to $122.7 billion, marking the highest quarter on record [12] - The company maintained a strong liquidity profile with a loan-to-deposit ratio in the mid-60% range, providing strategic flexibility [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to sustain loan growth momentum, particularly in commercial real estate and core CNI, while being cautious about energy sector exposure [22] - M&A opportunities are considered, but the company prioritizes organic growth and share repurchases as primary uses of capital [24][25] - The launch of mortgage finance is expected to contribute significantly to growth, with a target of $500 million in commitments by year-end [32][42] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in maintaining strong loan growth despite competitive pressures and market disruptions from M&A activity [22] - The company anticipates that net charge-offs will remain well below historical norms, supported by strong credit quality [9][17] - Future guidance includes expectations for loan growth of 5 to 7% and net interest income between $1.325 billion and $1.35 billion [16][17] Other Important Information - The company repurchased over 365,000 shares at an average price of $111 per share during the quarter [6] - Credit quality remains a core strength, with a combined allowance for credit losses at 1.32% of outstanding loans [9][10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth expectations and competitive forces - Management noted strong loan growth of around 2.5% in recent quarters and expressed confidence in sustaining this momentum despite competitive pressures from M&A activity [20][22] Question: Capital allocation and M&A considerations - The company prioritizes organic growth and share repurchases, with M&A being a secondary consideration, focusing on strong core deposit franchises [24][25] Question: Core margin trends and expectations - Management indicated a continued upward trend in core margin, driven by fixed-rate asset repricing and deposit repricing opportunities [30] Question: Mortgage finance growth potential - The company expects significant growth in mortgage finance, with a target of $500 million in commitments by year-end and a strong appetite for growth in 2026 [32][42] Question: Fee income range and guidance - Management acknowledged the challenges in predicting fee income but expressed confidence in good activity across various fee-generating businesses [38] Question: Credit quality and charge-off expectations - Management reiterated strong credit quality and low charge-off expectations, with a long-term average loss rate projected around 20 to 25 basis points [66][67]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings of $140.9 million, translating to an EPS of $2.22 per diluted share for Q3 2025, reflecting a solid foundation for future growth [3][4] - Total outstanding loan balances increased by 2.4% sequentially, adding almost $1.2 billion over the past two quarters [3][6] - Net interest margin expanded by 11 basis points, with core net interest income increasing by $11.3 million [4][13] - Fee income grew by 3.6% sequentially, contributing to overall performance [5][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The core Commercial and Industrial (CNI) loan portfolio grew by 1.4% quarter over quarter, while the commercial real estate (CRE) business increased by 4.2% [6][7] - The specialty lending portfolio saw a slight increase, with healthcare loans up by 1.8% driven by strong origination activity [7] - Investment banking revenue reached a record of $16.1 million, primarily due to municipal bond underwriting activity [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Assets Under Management (AUMA) grew to over $122 billion, marking a 4.1% increase in the third quarter [5][11] - Non-performing assets decreased by $7 million to $67 million, with a non-performing assets to period loans ratio of 27 basis points [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to sustain growth momentum, particularly in the CNI and CRE sectors, while maintaining a strong liquidity profile [4][16] - There is a focus on organic growth, with share repurchases and dividends as secondary uses of capital, while M&A opportunities are considered cautiously [22][23] - The launch of the mortgage finance business is expected to contribute significantly to growth, with a target of $500 million in commitments by year-end [30][37] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustaining loan growth despite competitive pressures and market disruptions from M&A activity [20][21] - The outlook for net interest income is projected between $1.325 billion and $1.35 billion, with expectations for continued growth in loans and deposits [16][18] - Credit quality remains strong, with expectations for low charge-offs and a healthy allowance for credit losses [8][72] Other Important Information - The company repurchased over 365,000 shares at an average price of $111 per share during the quarter, reflecting a commitment to shareholder value [5][6] - Total expenses increased by $15.3 million, primarily due to personnel expenses related to workforce realignment [13][15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth expectations and competitive forces - Management noted strong loan growth of around 2.5% in recent quarters and expressed confidence in sustaining this momentum despite competitive pressures from M&A activity [19][20] Question: Capital allocation and M&A considerations - The company prioritizes organic growth but remains open to M&A opportunities that align with strategic goals, emphasizing caution in execution [22][23] Question: Core margin trends and expectations - Management indicated a continued upward trend in core margin, driven by fixed-rate asset repricing and deposit repricing opportunities [26][27] Question: Mortgage finance business potential - The mortgage finance business is expected to grow significantly, with a target of $500 million in commitments by year-end and a strong growth outlook for 2026 [30][37] Question: Fee income range and guidance - Management discussed the challenges in providing precise guidance for fee income but noted strong activity across various fee-generating businesses [32][33] Question: Credit quality and charge-off expectations - The company maintains a strong credit quality outlook, with expectations for charge-offs to remain low in the near term [56][72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - WinTrust reported a record net income of $216 million for Q3 2025, up nearly 11% from $195 million in the previous quarter [5][10] - Net interest income increased by $20 million to $567 million, driven by solid loan and balance sheet growth [5][10] - Total loans reached $52 billion, reflecting an 11% year-to-date increase on an annualized basis [6][10] - Total deposits were nearly $57 billion, with deposit growth of $895 million, representing a 6% increase over the prior quarter [9][10] - Net interest margin was 3.5%, slightly down from the previous quarter but within the targeted range [6][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was broad-based, with commercial real estate loans increasing by $327 million and life finance loans growing by $252 million [15][16] - Non-interest income totaled $130.8 million, up approximately $6.7 million compared to the prior quarter, supported by higher wealth management and mortgage revenue [12][10] - Non-interest expenses decreased slightly to $380 million from $381.5 million in the previous quarter, indicating well-controlled expenses [12][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - WinTrust achieved deposit share gains in key markets, ranking third in deposit market share in Illinois, up one position [7][10] - The company continues to see strong growth in its franchises in Wisconsin and West Michigan, with significant upside potential [7][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on core deposit growth as a key strategy, leveraging its advantageous market position [7][10] - WinTrust aims to continue generating loan and deposit growth in the mid to high single-digit range while maintaining a stable net interest margin [23][10] - The management emphasizes a disciplined approach to underwriting and a commitment to customer relationships in the Midwest [24][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the stability of net interest margin despite potential rate cuts, citing a balanced deposit structure [35][10] - The overall credit environment remains stable, with proactive measures in place to address any challenges [20][10] - Management noted a sense of measured optimism among customers as they approach year-end [20][10] Other Important Information - The company has consistently grown tangible book value per share since going public and is on track to do so again in 2025 [13][10] - A one-time impact from preferred stock redemption reduced fully diluted net income per common share by $0.28 in Q3 [14][10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the loan growth drivers and any NDFI exposure? - Management highlighted unique market positioning in Chicago, gaining market share from larger banks, and noted that 70% of NDFI exposure is in mortgage warehouse lines with no losses experienced [28][33] Question: How do you feel about holding the margin in the current range with potential Fed rate cuts? - Management expressed confidence in maintaining the margin around 3.5%, citing a balanced deposit structure and effective hedging strategies [35][36] Question: What is the outlook for commercial loan growth? - Management indicated that the decline in commercial loan growth was more about timing than market competition, with consistent opportunities in the pipeline [40][41] Question: Can you expand on the strategy to focus on Midwest markets? - Management emphasized the attractiveness of the Midwest markets and the company's ability to take market share from competitors, preferring organic growth over expansion into other geographies [42][44] Question: What is the outlook for premium finance loans? - Management remains optimistic about premium finance growth, indicating it will continue to be a significant part of the loan portfolio [75][108] Question: Are there any segments or industries being closely monitored for credit? - Management is paying close attention to higher education and healthcare sectors, ensuring customers are well-capitalized to weather potential challenges [99][100]