Bank Earnings & Performance - Wells Fargo's overall report was not bad, despite mortgage pressure and regulatory constraints [1] - JP Morgan's investment banking gained 7%, exceeding expectations of a 14% loss [1] - Goldman Sachs is up 60% from its low [1] - JP Morgan announced a buyback and a dividend increase [1] Market & Economic Signals - The market is doing fine, with financials leading, and technology, especially semis, performing strongly [1] - Banks passed the stress test, indicating financial stability [1] - Net interest income saw a slight squeeze, suggesting competitive measures and banks actively seeking growth [1] - IPOs are scheduled even for August, typically a slow month [1] Future Outlook & Concerns - Expectation for net interest income to stabilize due to stabilizing rates [1] - Focus on loan and deposit growth as key indicators [1] - Jamie Dimon's call was not overly pessimistic, with concerns limited to tariff uncertainty and geopolitical issues [1]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, Banco Macro's net income totaled ARS 45.7 billion, a decrease of 59% or ARS 65.3 billion compared to Q4 2024 [4] - The annualized return on average equity was 3.81% and the return on average assets was 1.2% [5] - Net operating income before general and administrative expenses was ARS 801 billion, down 9% or ARS 82.6 billion from Q4 2024 [5] - Provision for loan losses increased by 60% or ARS 25.3 billion compared to Q4 2024, totaling ARS 66 billion [6] - Net interest income was ARS 579.2 billion, ARS 1 billion higher than Q4 2024, and up 122% or ARS 318 billion year-on-year [6][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Interest income totaled ARS 866.7 billion, down 3% or ARS 22.6 billion from Q4 2024 [7] - Income from interest on loans increased by 9% or ARS 49.6 billion compared to the previous quarter, but decreased by 18% or ARS 132.2 billion year-on-year [7][8] - Fee income was ARS 169.8 billion, a decrease of 1% or ARS 943 million from Q4 2024, but increased by 29% year-on-year [11] - Net income from financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss was ARS 66.4 billion, down 55% from Q4 2024 [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Banco Macro's market share over private sector loans reached 9.5% as of March 2025 [16] - Total deposits increased by 5% or ARS 485.4 billion quarter-on-quarter, totaling ARS 9.6 trillion, and increased by 23% year-on-year [16] - Nonperforming loans ratio was 1.44%, with a coverage ratio of 163.34% [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The bank aims to utilize its excess capital of ARS 3.2 trillion, with a capital adequacy ratio of 34.3% and a Tier one ratio of 33.6% [18] - The focus is on organic growth, with potential for future M&A opportunities as the number of banks in Argentina may shrink [26][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects real loan growth of 60% for 2025 and deposits to grow at 45% [24] - Inflation is forecasted at around 30% for 2025, with a declining trend in domestic interest rates anticipated [35] - Operating expenses are expected to grow close to inflation, around 30% [36] Other Important Information - The effective income tax rate was 43% higher than in Q4 2024 [14] - The bank's liquidity remains strong, with a liquid assets to deposits ratio of 68% [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on guidance for loan growth, deposits, and ROE - Management maintains a 60% loan growth forecast for 2025, with deposits expected to grow at 45% and ROE revised to 8% to 10% [24][25] Question: Expectations on macroeconomic factors - GDP growth is forecasted at 5% for 2025, with inflation at 30% and a declining trend in interest rates [35] Question: Loan to deposit ratio and capital ratio - The loan to deposit ratio is expected to increase, with loans representing 48% of total assets in Q1 2025 [37] Question: Bond portfolio positioning - The bank prefers high exposure to inflation-linked securities to hedge equity, aiming to maintain a stable level of available-for-sale bonds [46][48]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for the first quarter was $2,700,000, with diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.42, representing a 27% increase compared to the prior year quarter [5] - Tangible book value per share increased to $15.79, up from $14.93 last year, marking a 5.8% increase [5] - Net interest income totaled $11,300,000, a 23% increase from $9,200,000 in the first quarter of the previous year [5][19] - Operating expenses rose approximately 3.5% from the linked quarter, totaling $12,400,000, which includes $726,000 in merger-related expenses [7][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth for the quarter was $97,000,000, up 9.8% from the prior year, marking the fourth consecutive quarter of sequential loan growth [6][13] - Mortgage originations for the quarter were $40,000,000, down from the prior year and linked quarters, but the current pipeline is approximately $50,000,000 [6][8] - Noninterest income increased by 3.9% from the prior year quarter to $4,100,000, driven by gains on mortgage loans and commercial loan swap revenue [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposits grew over 10%, including $56,000,000 from the Marblehead acquisition, while excluding Marblehead, growth was 5.4% [6][12] - The deposit base ended the quarter at $1,270,000,000, the highest level in the company's history [24] - Demand deposits expanded by $8,000,000 or 3% for an annualized growth rate of 12% [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on five key initiatives: growing and diversifying revenue, expanding footprint, operational excellence, and maintaining asset quality [7] - The acquisition of Marblehead Bancorp is expected to enhance market presence and provide tailored financial solutions to clients [11] - The company is committed to digital innovation and enhancing client care initiatives to remain competitive against larger regional banks [15][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in loan growth despite economic uncertainties, with a budgeted growth of 8% to 10% for the year [40] - The company anticipates continued improvement in net interest margin due to lower funding costs and loan repricing [20][56] - Management remains optimistic about the economic environment and client situations, despite potential concerns regarding tariffs [39][57] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 26,500 shares at an average price of just under $21, representing approximately 130% of tangible book value [26] - The allowance for credit losses remained robust at 1.41% of total loans, providing 254% coverage of nonperforming loans [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook on loan growth and impact of tariffs - Management is confident in the loan pipeline and does not foresee significant pullback from clients due to tariffs, although economic uncertainty exists [36][39] Question: Expectations for mortgage volume and pipeline - The current mortgage pipeline is healthy, and management is optimistic about achieving budgeted numbers for the year [42][43] Question: Deposit trends and liquidity outlook - Management expects some seasonal fluctuations in deposits but anticipates core deposit growth to remain strong [49] Question: Credit quality and reserve levels - Management is bullish on credit quality and expects to maintain reserve levels while provisioning for anticipated loan growth [58][61] Question: Capital management priorities post-acquisition - The company plans to stabilize capital levels and may resume share buybacks when opportunities arise [66]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for the first quarter of 2025 was $13.1 million, with a return on average assets of 1.3% and return on average equity of 13.28% [10] - Average loan yields increased by one basis point to 6.02%, while net interest margin improved to 3.45% from 3.36% in the previous quarter [10] - Total loans held for investment rose by $89.1 million or 2.52% from the prior quarter [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The commercial real estate segment of the loan portfolio increased to 81.11% from 80.75% quarter over quarter [5] - Loan originations for the first quarter were $259.3 million, with payoffs and pay downs totaling $65.6 million and $104.6 million respectively [5] - Non-performing loans remained stable at 0.05% of loans held for investment [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposits increased by $178.4 million or 5% compared to the previous quarter, driven by increases in non-interest bearing demand and various types of interest-bearing deposits [6][7] - Non-wholesale deposits increased by $48.4 million or 1.61% quarter over quarter [8] - The cost of total deposits decreased by 10 basis points to 2.48% during the first quarter [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth and disciplined business practices, aiming to benefit customers, employees, community, and shareholders [14] - Expansion into the San Francisco Bay Area is supported by adding seasoned professionals and increasing core deposit accounts [4] - The company aims to maintain a fortress balance sheet with a target of 10% cash and a loan-to-deposit ratio below 100% [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's resilience and ability to adapt to changing economic conditions, projecting loan growth of 10% to 12% for the remainder of the year [19][20] - Concerns regarding tariffs and economic slowdown were acknowledged, but management believes the bank is well-positioned due to the composition of its loan portfolio [30] - The company remains optimistic about the demand for its services, particularly in the mobile home park and RV park sectors [29] Other Important Information - The company declared a cash dividend of $0.20 per share, expected to be paid on May 12, 2025 [9] - Five Star Bancorp was ranked third on the S&P Global Market Intelligence List of best-performing community banks among banks with assets between $3 billion and $10 billion [61] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook for the year - Management is bullish on loan growth, projecting 10% to 12% for the remainder of the year due to a strong sales force and solid pipelines [19][20] Question: Reason for higher cost wholesale funding - Management indicated that core deposit growth is expected to match loan growth, and they do not anticipate additional wholesale funding [22] Question: Impact of tariffs on RV manufactured housing business - Management feels comfortable with their portfolio's performance in the face of tariffs, citing historical resilience during economic downturns [30] Question: Changes in allowance for loan losses - The increase in allowance was driven by portfolio growth and revised economic forecasts from the FOMC [35] Question: Loan pricing competition - Management acknowledged competitive pricing but remains satisfied with their current loan spreads [40] Question: Customer hesitancy to borrow - Management noted strong demand in certain asset classes and emphasized their robust sales team as a key factor in maintaining loan growth [46][47] Question: Loan demand differences across regions - Management reported no significant challenges in the Bay Area, highlighting strong opportunities and a growing client base [49][50] Question: Small business borrowers' response to economic uncertainty - Management indicated that small business borrowers face high costs of borrowing, but they maintain a high level of reserves against this book [52][54]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for the first quarter of 2025 was $13.1 million, with a return on average assets of 1.3% and return on average equity of 13.28% [10] - The net interest margin improved to 3.45% from 3.36% in the previous quarter, driven by lower average cost of deposits [10] - Total loans held for investment increased by $89.1 million or 2.52% from the prior quarter [4][10] - Non-performing loans remained stable at 0.05% of loans held for investment [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The commercial real estate segment of the loan portfolio increased from 80.75% to 81.11% quarter over quarter [5] - Loan originations during the first quarter were $259.3 million, while payoffs and pay downs were $65.6 million and $104.6 million respectively [5] - Non-interest income decreased to $1.4 million from $1.7 million in the previous quarter, primarily due to a reduction in income from equity investments [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposits increased by $178.4 million or 5% compared to the previous quarter, driven by increases in non-interest bearing demand and various types of interest-bearing deposits [6][7] - Non-wholesale deposits increased by $48.4 million or 1.61% quarter over quarter [8] - Local agency deposits accounted for 22.4% of total deposits as of March 31, 2025 [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth and disciplined business practices, aiming to benefit customers, employees, community, and shareholders [13] - Expansion into the San Francisco Bay Area is a key strategic initiative, supported by the addition of seasoned professionals [4][12] - The company aims to maintain a fortress balance sheet with a target of 10% in cash and a loan-to-deposit ratio below 100% [21] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's resilience and ability to adapt to changing economic conditions [13] - The company anticipates loan growth of 10% to 12% for the remainder of the year, supported by a strong sales force [18][19] - Concerns regarding tariffs and economic slowdown were acknowledged, but management believes the company is well-positioned relative to competitors [30] Other Important Information - The company declared a cash dividend of $0.20 per share, expected to be paid on May 12, 2025 [9] - Five Star Bancorp was ranked third on the S&P Global Market Intelligence List of best-performing community banks in the nation [61] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook for the year - Management is bullish on loan growth, expecting 10% to 12% for the remainder of the year, supported by a strong sales force [18][19] Question: Reason for higher cost wholesale funding - Management indicated that core deposit growth is expected to match loan growth, and they do not anticipate additional wholesale funding [21] Question: Impact of tariffs on RV manufactured housing business - Management feels comfortable about the portfolio's performance, citing historical resilience during economic downturns [30] Question: Changes in allowance for loan losses - The increase in allowance was driven by portfolio growth and revised economic forecasts from the FOMC [34][35] Question: Loan pricing competition - Management acknowledged competitive pricing but remains satisfied with current spreads [38][39] Question: Customer hesitancy to borrow - Management noted strong demand in certain asset classes and emphasized the effectiveness of their sales force [46][47] Question: Small business borrowers' response to economic uncertainty - Management indicated that small business borrowers face high costs of borrowing, but reserves against this book remain high [53][55]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $4.9 million for Q1 2025, which is a 67% increase year-over-year, translating to $0.30 per share [10] - The net interest margin improved by 36 basis points year-over-year, driven by a 7 basis point decrease in the cost of deposits [4][10] - The total risk-based capital ratio stood at 16.69%, with a tangible common equity (TCE) ratio of 9.82% [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loan originations for the quarter were $63 million, with commercial loan originations at $49 million, marking a fivefold increase from the same quarter last year [6] - Non-interest income increased by over $100,000 from the prior quarter, primarily due to higher earnings on Bank-Owned Life Insurance (BOLI) [13] - Non-interest expense rose by $2.9 million from the prior quarter, mainly due to seasonal increases in salaries and employee benefits [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits reached $3.3 billion, an increase of $82 million from the prior quarter, with non-interest bearing deposits comprising 43% of total deposits [13] - The average cost of deposits declined by 7 basis points in Q1, with continued reductions observed into April [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue generating solid financial performance in 2025, focusing on improving net interest margin and revenue [16] - There is an emphasis on adding banking talent to support profitable growth and investing in innovation and technology to enhance service quality [16] - The company is evaluating share repurchase options as part of its capital management strategy [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while there is economic uncertainty, they expect a higher level of loan growth driven by new hires rather than a significant increase in market-wide loan demand [16] - The company has not observed any meaningful increase in risk within its loan portfolio despite broader macroeconomic concerns [5] Other Important Information - The company declared a cash dividend of $0.25 per share, marking the 80th consecutive dividend payment [15] - Charitable contributions in Q1 were $403,000, significantly higher than previous quarters, as the timing of contributions was pulled forward [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations around the buyback moving forward - Management is contemplating capital actions and is waiting for discussions with regulators regarding their capital plan [20][22] Question: Details on classified loans - The majority of classified loans were related to two borrowers, a contractor and a multifamily real estate entity, with unique performance issues [23][24] Question: Expense expectations for upcoming quarters - The expense base is expected to normalize, with a historical compound annual growth rate of about 4% [25][26] Question: Deposit growth sustainability - The deposit growth was attributed to new accounts and inflows from existing clients, though some seasonal outflows are expected [31] Question: Future loan production trends - Loan production remains strong, driven by new hires, with a healthy pipeline expected to sustain growth [36][39] Question: Concerns regarding the wine industry exposure - The company has minimal exposure to the wine industry, with loans secured and closely monitored [87][88] Question: Client movement from larger banks to smaller institutions - There is a trend of clients moving from larger banks to community-oriented institutions, benefiting the company [90][92] Question: Investment portfolio and cash management - The company is balancing its investment portfolio and cash levels, with no immediate need to stockpile cash [94][96]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $4.9 million for Q1 2025, which is a 67% increase year-over-year, translating to $0.30 per share [11] - The net interest margin improved by 36 basis points year-over-year, driven by a decrease in the cost of deposits [5][11] - Total risk-based capital ratio stood at 16.69% and tangible common equity (TCE) ratio at 9.82% [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loan originations for the quarter were $63 million, with commercial loan originations at $49 million, marking a fivefold increase from the same quarter last year [8] - Non-interest income increased by over $100,000 from the prior quarter, primarily due to higher earnings on Bank-Owned Life Insurance (BOLI) [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits reached $3.3 billion, an increase of $82 million from the previous quarter, with non-interest bearing deposits comprising 43% of total deposits [14][9] - The average cost of deposits declined by seven basis points in Q1 2025, reflecting effective management of deposit rates [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue generating solid financial performance in 2025, focusing on net interest margin and revenue growth [18] - Plans to add banking talent and invest in innovation and technology to enhance service quality and operational efficiency [18][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the stability of the loan portfolio despite macroeconomic concerns, noting no significant increase in risk within their portfolio [6][18] - The company anticipates a healthy loan pipeline and expects to see improving loan growth driven by new hires rather than a general increase in market demand [18] Other Important Information - The company declared a cash dividend of $0.25 per share, marking the 80th consecutive dividend payment [17] - Charitable contributions in Q1 2025 were $403,000, significantly higher than previous quarters due to a shift in timing for contributions [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations around the buyback moving forward - Management is contemplating capital actions post-regulatory exam and has authorization for buybacks, but no immediate plans were disclosed [22][24] Question: Details on classified loans - The majority of classified loans were related to two borrowers with unique operational issues, and management does not expect further deterioration [25][26] Question: Expense expectations for upcoming quarters - The expense base is expected to normalize, with a historical compound annual growth rate of about 4% [27][29] Question: Deposit growth sustainability - Management noted that while there were seasonal inflows, the growth is attributed to new client relationships and ongoing efforts in commercial lending [34] Question: Future loan production trends - The company is not seeing a delay in deals despite macro uncertainty, with a healthy loan pipeline driven by new hires [40][42] Question: Credit management approach amidst uncertainty - Management confirmed that their conservative credit management approach remains unchanged despite economic uncertainties [64] Question: Plans for deploying excess liquidity - The company has accelerated securities purchases and is monitoring loan growth and tax-related outflows before further actions [66] Question: Concerns regarding the wine industry exposure - The company has minimal exposure to the wine industry and is closely monitoring clients in that sector, with no major issues reported [86] Question: Trends in client movement from larger banks - Management noted a trend of clients moving from larger institutions to community-oriented banks, although it is difficult to predict cyclicality [90]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $24.7 million or $0.46 per diluted share, with an annualized return on average assets of 94 basis points and an annualized return on average tangible common equity of 11.48% [10] - Net interest income for the quarter was $99.3 million, a decrease from $103 million in the previous quarter, resulting in a net interest margin of 4.2% compared to 4.25% in the fourth quarter of 2024 [11][12] - Non-interest expense decreased to $70.2 million from $75.3 million in the previous quarter, reflecting a focus on managing expenses [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a provision for loan losses of $3.6 million, with minimal net charge-offs of $163,000, bringing the allowance for credit losses on loans to $83.7 million or 1.15% of loans [13] - Non-interest income increased to $5.5 million from $5 million in the previous quarter, benefiting from small gains on asset sales [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a competitive market for deposits, with a focus on new account origination, onboarding more accounts in both number and dollar amount compared to the previous quarter [30][31] - The company maintained a strong proportion of non-interest bearing deposits, representing over 37% of the deposit base, and achieved a 14 basis point improvement in the cost of funds [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to build a strong foundation for growth while managing capital to benefit shareholders, including share repurchases totaling 1.4 million shares at an average price of $27.99 [15][17] - The management expressed a cautious but optimistic outlook for growth, expecting it to be pushed to the latter half of the year due to current economic uncertainties [9][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged economic uncertainty introduced by the administration but noted no immediate signs of impact on their communities [7] - The company remains focused on customer acquisition and is optimistic about the growth potential in the second half of the year, despite challenges [9][28] Other Important Information - The total risk-based capital ratio was 15.94% at the end of the first quarter, slightly down from 16% at the end of 2024, but the regulatory capital ratios at the bank increased year-over-year [14] - The Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program allowing up to $65 million in shares to be repurchased through May 2026 [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the current sentiment from clients regarding loan growth? - Management indicated a cautious optimism about potential loan growth, noting that the pipeline is building positively and that payoffs have been significant, around $275 million to $300 million per quarter [22][27] Question: Can you elaborate on the competitive deposit market? - Management confirmed that the market is intensely competitive, but they have successfully onboarded new accounts, with a significant portion being new customers [30][31] Question: What are the current trends in credit quality? - Management noted some migration in non-accruals, particularly in owner-occupied commercial real estate, but emphasized a cautious approach to credit evaluation [34][37] Question: What are the company's plans regarding capital management? - Management stated they are considering various options for capital utilization, including potential debt redemption and continued share buybacks, while remaining open to M&A opportunities [44][46] Question: How do you see the interest margin evolving? - Management expressed a goal to achieve a core net interest margin of over 4%, while acknowledging that improvements may be incremental due to current economic conditions [56][58]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for Q1 2025 was $25 million or $0.81 per diluted share, while core net income was $27.1 million or $0.88 per diluted share, reflecting the sustainability of earnings [24][25] - Core earnings per share was $0.88, supported by net interest income of $70.6 million, which was within the guidance range [12][24] - The tangible book value per share increased by 4% to $23.51, while core revenue per diluted share decreased by $0.10 to $2.57 [26] - The CET1 ratio improved by 43 basis points to 14.32%, indicating a strong capital position [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans receivable increased by $7 million to $4.6 billion, driven by increases in multifamily and commercial industrial loans [38] - Political deposits grew by $103 million or 11% to $1.1 billion, consistent with historical patterns post-election [15][32] - Core non-interest income decreased to $9.1 million from $9.5 million, primarily due to lower commercial banking fees [42] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits increased by $446 million to $7.6 billion, with on-balance sheet deposits rising by 3.2% [31][32] - Non-interest-bearing deposits decreased to 39% of average ending deposits, while average cost of deposits increased by seven basis points to 159 basis points [33] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to maintain a conservative approach amid uncertain economic conditions, focusing on strong capital and liquidity [17][18] - A new $40 million share repurchase program was authorized, indicating a commitment to returning capital to shareholders [30][68] - The company is expanding its commercial PACE franchise, expecting C-PACE originations to ramp up to $15 to $20 million per quarter in the latter half of the year [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in revenue growth and margin expansion for the remainder of the year, despite modest declines in core earnings and revenue [13][14] - The company anticipates C&I loan growth to remain muted in Q2, with reacceleration expected in the latter half of the year [18] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong credit profile and higher liquidity levels due to potential impacts from federal funding reductions [17][18] Other Important Information - The company is planning a move to a new headquarters in New York City by mid-2026, aimed at attracting and retaining top talent [21][22] - Nonperforming assets totaled $33.9 million, representing an increase driven by commercial industrial nonaccrual loans [46] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on the $8.3 million loan that went on nonaccrual - Management indicated that the loan is in the solar sector and has sufficient collateral value, allowing them to maintain reserve coverage [54][56] Question: Impact of funding for clean energy projects - Management confirmed that there is no observed decline in funding for clean energy projects, with a strong pipeline continuing [58][60] Question: Concerns about political challenges affecting the bank - Management emphasized their focus on core business growth and maintaining strong capital and liquidity to navigate potential challenges [64][66] Question: Update on the political deposit franchise outlook - Management reported strong deposit performance with 11% growth in political deposits, consistent with historical trends [77][78] Question: Utilization of off-balance sheet strategies - Management explained that off-balance sheet strategies will be used as appropriate to manage balance sheet growth and maintain net interest income [84][86] Question: Expectations for expenses and digital transformation projects - Management confirmed that expenses are expected to ramp up throughout the year, with a focus on digital transformation and hiring plans [91][92] Question: Tangible impacts from the new administration - Management stated that they have not seen tangible impacts on lending or deposits but are closely monitoring potential risks [96][99]

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