Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - **Industry**: Chinese Banking Sector - **Key Metrics**: Total Social Financing (TSF), Loans, Deposits Core Insights 1. **Total Social Financing (TSF) and Loan Growth**: - New TSF in December 2025 reached Rmb 2.2 trillion, a year-over-year decrease of Rmb 0.6 trillion, primarily due to a decrease in government bond issuance by Rmb 1.1 trillion [1] - Government bond issuance for the full year 2025 increased by Rmb 14 trillion (+23% year-over-year), contributing 39% of new TSF, up from 35% in 2024 [1] - Rmb loans to the real economy decreased by Rmb 16 trillion (-7% year-over-year), contributing 45% of new TSF, down from 53% in 2024, indicating weak demand from the real economy [1] 2. **Loan Composition**: - New loans totaled Rmb 0.9 trillion in December 2025, a year-over-year decrease of Rmb 0.1 trillion [1] - Retail credit saw a net decrease of Rmb 0.1 trillion, with short-term retail loans continuing a downward trend since October [1] - Corporate loans increased by Rmb 1.1 trillion (up Rmb 0.6 trillion year-over-year), attributed to a low base from December 2024 due to local government debt swaps [1] 3. **Credit Growth Dynamics**: - For the full year 2025, corporate loans contributed 95% of new credits, compared to 79% in 2024, with corporate loan growth at 9.1% versus 0.5% for retail loans [1] - Discussions with banks suggest that retail credit demand may improve in 2026 as retail risks are digested and consumption stimulus policies take effect [1] 4. **Deposit Trends**: - Deposits increased by Rmb 1.7 trillion, up Rmb 3.1 trillion year-over-year, primarily due to a smaller decline in non-bank financial institution deposits [5] - Household deposit growth remained robust, with a net increase of Rmb 2.6 trillion (up Rmb 0.4 trillion year-over-year) [5] - M2 growth rate was 8.5% year-over-year, rebounding from 8.0% in November, supported by fiscal spending [5] 5. **Market Conditions**: - M1 growth rate declined to 3.8% year-over-year from 4.9% in November, possibly due to a high base from large-scale corporate debt repayments in December 2024 [5] Additional Important Insights - The banking sector is experiencing a shift with corporate lending becoming the primary driver of credit growth, while retail lending remains subdued due to weak consumption and regulatory impacts [1][5] - The overall economic environment is characterized by a cautious outlook on retail credit demand, with expectations for gradual improvement in the coming year [1]

Core Insights - The People's Bank of China released the financial statistics report for 2025, indicating a total loan balance of 275.74 trillion yuan by the end of December, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 6.2% [1] - The total increase in RMB loans for the year 2025 was 16.27 trillion yuan, with household loans increasing by 441.7 billion yuan [1] Loan Breakdown - The balance of RMB loans reached 271.91 trillion yuan at the end of December, with a year-on-year growth of 6.4% [1] - Household loans saw a mixed trend, with short-term loans decreasing by 835.1 billion yuan while medium to long-term loans increased by 1.28 trillion yuan [1] - Corporate loans increased by 15.47 trillion yuan, with short-term loans rising by 4.81 trillion yuan and medium to long-term loans increasing by 8.82 trillion yuan, alongside a rise in bill financing by 1.66 trillion yuan [1] - Non-bank financial institution loans decreased by 110.3 billion yuan [1] Foreign Currency Loans - By the end of December, the balance of foreign currency loans was 545 billion USD, showing a year-on-year growth of 0.5% [1] - The total increase in foreign currency loans for the year was 2.9 billion USD [1]

Core Insights - Bosnia and Herzegovina's central bank foreign exchange reserves reached 18.28 billion marks by the end of October, an increase of 360 million marks from September, representing a year-on-year growth of 1.24 billion marks or 7.3% [1] Group 1: Foreign Exchange Reserves - As of the end of October, foreign exchange reserves stood at 18.28 billion marks, up by 360 million marks from the end of September [1] - Year-on-year, the reserves increased by 1.24 billion marks, reflecting a growth rate of 7.3% [1] Group 2: Domestic Loans - Total domestic loans in Bosnia and Herzegovina reached 28.02 billion marks by the end of October, with an increase of 226.6 million marks from September, marking a growth of 0.8% [1] - Year-on-year, domestic loans grew by 2.84 billion marks, which is a 10.4% increase [1] Group 3: Breakdown of Loan Growth - Residential loans increased by 161.2 million marks (1.1% growth), while loans to non-financial public enterprises rose by 17.1 million marks (2.4% growth) [1] - Government agency loans increased by 58 million marks (4.5% growth), whereas private enterprise loans decreased by 8.8 million marks (0.1% decline) [1] - Other domestic sector loans saw a decrease of 1 million marks (0.3% decline) [1] Group 4: Annual Loan Growth - Residential loans increased by 1.48 billion marks (11.6% growth), while private enterprise loans grew by 777.2 million marks (7.4% growth) [1] - Government agency loans rose by 90.4 million marks (7.2% growth), and non-financial public enterprise loans surged by 184.1 million marks (33% growth) [1] - Other domestic sector loans increased by 116.2 million marks (43% growth) [1]

Summary of Synchrony Financial Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Synchrony Financial - **Industry**: Financial Services, specifically focusing on consumer credit and payment solutions Key Points and Arguments Performance and Growth - Synchrony Financial had a strong year in 2025, renewing over 40 partners, including Walmart, and managing credit effectively [1][2] - The company is optimistic about growth heading into 2026, with successful launches such as Walmart OnePay and Amazon PayLater [2][3] - Credit performance is strong, with a positive trend in purchase volume, particularly in the non-prime segment [5][6] - The company reported a 2% increase in purchase volume in Q3, indicating a positive inflection point [6] Consumer Health and Spending Trends - Consumer spending has shown improvement, with average transaction volume and frequency increasing [5][6] - The company noted a distinction between prime and subprime cohorts, with super prime segments experiencing outsized growth due to stock market gains and consumer confidence [7][8] - Holiday sales from November 1st to Christmas were strong, with promotional activities driving growth [9][10] Credit Actions and Strategy - Delinquencies are at 4.5%, with charge-off rates consistent with expectations, indicating effective credit management [13][14] - The company is unwinding credit restrictions, focusing on health and wellness and digital platforms, while maintaining a disciplined approach to credit origination [25][28] - The goal is to return to a long-term growth framework of 7%-10% as the economy stabilizes [29] Platform Performance - Digital and health and wellness platforms are expected to see continued outsized growth, with significant investments made in these areas [15][16] - The Walmart partnership is highlighted as a key growth driver, with a technologically advanced program that integrates seamlessly into the Walmart ecosystem [20][21] - Lifestyle, home, and auto segments are recovering but lagging behind other platforms due to consumer caution on larger purchases [19][32] Competitive Positioning - Synchrony Financial has successfully renewed contracts with major partners, with 97% of balances secured through renewals [39] - The competitive landscape remains rational, with the company confident in its ability to win deals based on product capabilities and underwriting technology [37][38] - The company is focused on expanding distribution through non-traditional business development opportunities, integrating financing into various platforms [34][35] Financial Metrics and Capital Management - The company has a CET1 ratio over 13.5% and has increased its buyback program to $3.5 billion, indicating strong capital management [58] - The net interest margin (NIM) is expected to improve as liquidity conditions become more favorable, with a target to return to or exceed 16% [53][54] Future Outlook - Synchrony Financial is well-positioned for growth in 2026 and beyond, with a focus on technology investments and strategic partnerships [60] - The company emphasizes the importance of maintaining a disciplined approach to credit while capitalizing on growth opportunities in the consumer finance space [49][50] Additional Important Insights - The company is leveraging advanced underwriting systems like Prism to enhance credit performance and manage risk effectively [46][51] - There is a focus on integrating financing products into the purchasing path of consumers, which is seen as a key growth strategy moving forward [36][37]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Tangible book value per share plus dividends increased by 17% year over year and 4.5% quarter over quarter [2] - Net attributable profit exceeded €2.5 billion, although it decreased compared to the previous quarter due to higher inflation in Turkey and one-off positive impacts in the second quarter [3] - CET1 capital ratio improved by 8 basis points to 13.42%, providing capacity for increased shareholder remuneration [4] - Cumulative profits for the first nine months reached almost €8 billion, a 4.7% increase year over year [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core revenues showed strong growth with net interest income and fees increasing by 18% and 15% year over year, respectively [5] - Net interest income grew by 3.2% quarter on quarter in Spain, driven by strong loan growth in profitable segments [19] - In Mexico, net interest income grew by 3.3% quarter on quarter, supported by robust lending activity [21] - Turkey's net attributable profit increased by nearly 50% year over year, driven by higher core revenues [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth in Spain accelerated to 7.8% year over year, while Mexico's loan growth was 9.8% year over year [9] - The Mexican peso's appreciation negatively impacted FX hedges this quarter but is expected to benefit in the coming quarters [3] - The cost of risk in Mexico improved, with guidance now expecting it to remain below 340 basis points [24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on organic growth and has closed the chapter on the Sabadell transaction, emphasizing future operational focus [45] - A significant share buyback program of nearly €1 billion will commence, alongside a record interim dividend [16] - The company is committed to achieving a cost-to-income ratio of 35% by 2028, with a focus on maintaining operational leverage [68] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about future revenue and profit growth, citing stability in customer spreads and strong loan growth [12] - The company expects interest rates to stabilize, with limited room for further cuts, which will support core revenue growth [11] - The competitive landscape in Mexico is acknowledged, with a focus on leveraging existing strengths to maintain market position [76] Other Important Information - The company acquired a record 8.7 million new customers in the first nine months of 2025, with 66% through digital channels [17] - A record €97 billion was channeled into sustainable business, reflecting the company's commitment to sustainability [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan book growth in Spain and cost of risk in Mexico - Management noted that corporate loan growth in Spain is strong, driven by various sectors, while mortgage growth is limited due to pricing concerns [34][37] - The cost of risk in Mexico is expected to improve, with positive macro adjustments influencing guidance [38][39] Question: Insights on the Sabadell transaction and capital distribution outlook - Management considers the Sabadell transaction a missed opportunity but emphasizes a focus on future growth and shareholder value [45][46] - The company plans to distribute excess capital back to shareholders, targeting a capital level of 11.5% to 12% [46][50] Question: Margins in Spain and Mexico - Management indicated that customer spreads in Spain are stabilizing, with expectations of limited further declines [55][58] - In Mexico, margins are resilient despite falling interest rates, with expectations of stabilization in customer spreads [61][62] Question: Group costs and ambitions for Corporate & Investment Banking (CIB) - Management highlighted a focus on containing costs and achieving a cost-to-income ratio of 35% by 2028 [68] - The CIB business aims for 20% revenue growth, with aspirations to double the business over four years [70][72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Prosperity Bancshares reported net income of $137.6 million for Q3 2025, an increase from $127.3 million in Q3 2024, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 8.2% [7][8] - The net interest margin on a tax-equivalent basis increased to 3.24% for Q3 2025, up from 2.95% in Q3 2024 [8][14] - The annualized return on tangible equity was 13.43%, and return on assets was 1.44% for the quarter [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans outstanding were $20.7 billion at September 30, 2025, a decrease of $160 million from $20.9 billion at June 30, 2025 [8][17] - Non-interest income for Q3 2025 was $41.2 million, slightly down from $43 million in Q2 2025 [14] - Non-interest expense was $138.6 million for Q3 2025, compared to $140.3 million for the same period in 2024 [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposits increased to $27.7 billion at September 30, 2025, up by $308 million or 1.1% from $27.4 billion at June 30, 2025 [9] - Non-performing assets totaled $119 million, representing 36 basis points of quarterly average earning assets, an increase from $110 million or 33 basis points at June 30, 2025 [9][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company signed a definitive merger agreement with Southwest Bancshares Inc., expanding its footprint in San Antonio and enhancing its market share [6][10] - The company is focused on completing pending acquisitions and exploring additional strategic opportunities, indicating a trend towards consolidation in the banking industry [10][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the Texas economy, highlighting its resilience and growth potential despite national economic challenges [11] - The competitive lending environment is described as aggressive, with management emphasizing the importance of prudent lending practices [25][27] Other Important Information - The Board of Directors approved an increase in the fourth quarter 2025 dividend to $0.60 per share from $0.58 per share [7] - The efficiency ratio improved to 44.1% for Q3 2025, down from 46.9% in Q3 2024 [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for loan growth - Management indicated that loan growth is expected to be flat in Q4 2025 due to competitive pricing and elevated payoffs, but they are optimistic for next year with pending acquisitions [24][25] Question: Buyback activity - Management stated that buyback activity will be price-dependent and they expect to be active soon [32][34] Question: Margin outlook - Management remains optimistic about margin expansion over the next 12 to 36 months, despite potential rate cuts [49][50] Question: Hiring efforts - Management confirmed ongoing efforts to hire more lenders to bolster loan growth [39][40] Question: Deposit competition - Management is comfortable with an 80% loan-to-deposit ratio and focuses on core deposits, emphasizing relationship banking [113][115]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Prosperity Bancshares reported net income of $137.6 million for Q3 2025, an increase from $127.3 million in Q3 2024, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 8.2% in net income per diluted common share, which rose to $1.45 from $1.34 [7][8] - The net interest margin on a tax-equivalent basis improved to 3.24% for Q3 2025, up from 2.95% in Q3 2024, indicating a significant increase of 29 basis points [8][14] - Deposits increased by $308 million or 1.1% to $27.7 billion at the end of Q3 2025 compared to $27.4 billion at the end of Q2 2025 [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans outstanding, excluding warehouse purchase program loans, decreased to $20.7 billion at September 30, 2025, down from $20.9 billion at June 30, 2025, a decline of $160 million [8][9] - Non-interest income for Q3 2025 was $41.2 million, slightly down from $43 million in Q2 2025, while non-interest expense remained stable at $138.6 million [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a competitive lending environment with aggressive terms being offered, leading to a cautious approach in loan participation [9][27] - Non-performing assets totaled $119 million or 36 basis points of quarterly average earning assets at September 30, 2025, compared to $110 million or 33 basis points at June 30, 2025, indicating a slight increase in non-performing assets [9][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on completing pending acquisitions of American Bank Holding Corporation and Southwest Bancshares, which are expected to enhance its market presence in Texas [10][11] - The board approved an increase in the quarterly dividend to $0.60 per share, reflecting confidence in the company's performance and market conditions [7] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the Texas economy, highlighting its resilience and growth potential despite national economic challenges [10][11] - The company anticipates continued improvement in net interest margins over the next 24 to 36 months, regardless of interest rate fluctuations [8][49] Other Important Information - The company has no brokered deposits and emphasizes the importance of core deposits in its growth strategy [9][12] - The efficiency ratio improved to 44.1% for Q3 2025, down from 46.9% in Q3 2024, indicating better cost management [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for loan growth given recent declines - Management indicated that loan growth is expected to be flat in the near term due to competitive pricing and elevated payoffs, but they remain optimistic for next year with approved construction deals pending funding [23][25] Question: Buyback activity and stock price considerations - Management stated that buyback activity will be price-dependent, with intentions to be more active given the current undervaluation of the stock [32][34] Question: Hiring efforts to bolster loan growth - Management confirmed ongoing efforts to hire more lenders to support loan growth, with recent approvals for new hires [39][40] Question: Deposit competition and loan-to-deposit ratio - Management is comfortable with an 80% loan-to-deposit ratio and focuses on core deposits, noting that competition from out-of-state banks may ease as they establish market share [112][113] Question: Margin outlook amid potential rate cuts - Management remains confident in margin expansion over the next 12 to 36 months, despite potential rate cuts, projecting a margin of around 3.38% in the future [95][96]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Prosperity Bancshares reported net income of $137.6 million for Q3 2025, an increase from $127.3 million in Q3 2024, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 10.2% [5] - Net income per diluted common share increased to $1.45 for Q3 2025, up 8.2% from $1.34 in Q3 2024 [6] - The net interest margin on a tax-equivalent basis improved to 3.24% for Q3 2025, compared to 2.95% for the same period in 2024, marking a 29 basis points increase [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans outstanding were approximately $22.028 billion at September 30, 2025, down from $22.197 billion at June 30, 2025, indicating a decrease of $169 million [15] - Non-interest income for Q3 2025 was $41.2 million, slightly down from $43 million in Q2 2025 [12] - Non-interest expense was $138.6 million for Q3 2025, compared to $140.3 million for the same period in 2024 [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposits increased to $27.7 billion at September 30, 2025, up by $308 million or 1.1% from $27.4 billion at June 30, 2025 [8] - Non-performing assets totaled $119 million, representing 0.54% of loans and other real estate, an increase from $110 million or 0.50% at June 30, 2025 [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company signed a definitive merger agreement with Southwest Bancshares Inc., which will expand its footprint in the San Antonio metro area and enhance its market share [4] - The company is also pursuing a merger with American Bank Holding Corporation to strengthen its presence in South Texas [4] - The management emphasized a focus on core deposits and maintaining a healthy loan-to-deposit ratio, currently at 80% [68] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the Texas economy, noting it remains one of the strongest and most diverse economies in the world, with a GDP of approximately $2.7 trillion [9] - The competitive lending environment is described as aggressive, with management opting to be prudent in loan pricing to protect net interest margins [24] - Future loan growth is expected to be modest, with a projection of low single digits for the next year, influenced by ongoing acquisitions [22] Other Important Information - The Board of Directors approved an increase in the fourth quarter 2025 dividend to $0.60 per share from $0.58 per share [5] - The company does not have any brokered deposits, which is a positive indicator of its deposit quality [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for loan growth - Management indicated that loans are down slightly year-to-date and expect a flat quarter due to competitive pricing and elevated payoffs [21] Question: Buyback activity - Management stated that buyback activity will be price-dependent and expressed a desire to be more active in the near future [29] Question: Hiring more lenders - Management confirmed ongoing efforts to hire more lenders to bolster loan growth, while maintaining a focus on quality [37] Question: Margin outlook - Management remains optimistic about margin expansion over the next 12 to 36 months, despite potential rate cuts [45] Question: Deposit competition - Management is comfortable with the current loan-to-deposit ratio and emphasized the importance of core deposits [101]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Reported net income available to common shareholders was $180.4 million, including $35.6 million of acquisition expenses, compared to $13.5 million in the second quarter. Excluding these expenses, net operating income was $206.5 million or $2.70 per share [4] - Net interest income totaled $475 million, an increase of $8 million or 1.7% from the second quarter, driven by organic growth in average loans and earning assets [4] - Fee income increased by 12.4% on a linked quarter basis, excluding market valuation changes on equity positions [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Investment banking saw nearly a 14% increase in activity from the second quarter, driven by agency and mortgage-backed trading [4] - Quarterly loan production surpassed $2 billion for the first time, with strong organic growth momentum [5] - CNI (Commercial and Industrial) loans were the strongest contributor, with more than 14% annualized growth over the second quarter average balances [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth outpaced peer banks, with UMB reporting an 8% annualized increase in average loan balances compared to the 5.5% median increase reported by peers [6] - Total nonperforming loans were $132 million or 35 basis points of loans, with a slight increase attributed to two legacy HTLF loans [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company successfully completed the full systems and brand conversion of Heartland Financial USA, Inc., which is expected to enhance growth opportunities [3] - UMB aims to augment loan growth with acquired deposits through M&A, focusing on high-quality partnerships to support its growth strategy [67][68] - The company is optimistic about the integration of Heartland's lenders, enhancing customer focus and operational efficiency [53][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects charge-off levels to remain near or below historical averages for the remainder of the year, despite a slight increase in nonperforming loans [9] - The company anticipates continued strong loan activity and pipeline in both legacy and HTLF markets, with a strong pipeline looking ahead into the fourth quarter [6] - Management expressed confidence in the economic outlook, noting that borrowers are performing well [40] Other Important Information - The Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.43 per share, representing a 7.5% increase from the prior quarter [10] - The effective tax rate for the third quarter was 20.4%, with expectations for the full year to be between 19% and 22% [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you dissect the production trends and their sustainability? - Management noted that loan growth is driven by local penetration and the capacity of the officer corps, with early signs of success from the Heartland acquisition [21][22] Question: Any updates on credit quality? - Management expressed satisfaction with credit quality, stating that reserves have been established for identified loans, and they expect charge-offs to align with previous guidance [25][32] Question: What is the outlook for expenses in Q1 2026? - Management indicated that cost savings from the Heartland acquisition are expected to materialize by the end of Q1 2026, with some inflationary pressures anticipated [46][50] Question: How is the integration of Heartland's lenders progressing? - Management highlighted that the integration has been smooth, with enhanced support and quicker turnaround times for clients [53][60] Question: What opportunities exist for new loan production across Heartland's regions? - Management identified significant opportunities in various markets, particularly California and Wisconsin, emphasizing low penetration rates [64][66] Question: How does the company view M&A opportunities? - Management reiterated that while they do not need to pursue M&A, they are open to strategic acquisitions that can enhance their deposit base [67][68] Question: What is the outlook for the trust and securities processing division? - Management noted strong growth driven by asset servicing and corporate trust, with expectations for continued momentum [88][91]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings per share of $1.19 for Q3 2025, down from $1.36 in the previous quarter and $1.32 in Q3 2024 [4] - Return on average assets was 1.11% and pre-provision return on average assets was 1.61% [5] - Net interest income increased by $5.5 million compared to the previous quarter, reaching $158 million, while net interest margin improved by two basis points to 4.23% [5][25] - Non-performing assets increased by $22 million, resulting in a ratio of 83 basis points compared to 71 basis points in the linked quarter [20][28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth for the quarter was 6% or $174 million, net of $22 million in guaranteed loan sales [6][14] - Deposit growth was exceptional, with an increase of $240 million in the quarter, leading to a total year-over-year increase of approximately 7% [7][18] - Specialty deposits grew by $189 million in the quarter and $681 million year-over-year, reflecting a 22% increase [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced strong loan origination in the Southwest markets, particularly in Dallas and Las Vegas [6][13] - Growth in deposits was observed across all regions year-over-year, with non-interest-bearing accounts representing over 32% of total deposits [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on integrating new branches acquired in Arizona and Kansas City, which will enhance its market presence [3][11] - The strategy emphasizes organic growth and maintaining a balanced approach to lending and deposit generation [11][58] - The management is optimistic about the economic environment, with expectations of continued loan production and client onboarding [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that clients are showing increased confidence due to recent economic developments, including interest rate cuts and clarity in trade policies [12][13] - The company expects to maintain or slightly accelerate loan production levels moving forward [12] - There is confidence in returning non-performing assets to historical levels in the coming quarters [10][21] Other Important Information - The company increased its quarterly dividend by $0.01 to $0.32 per share for Q4 2025 [9][31] - The acquisition of branches is expected to be accretive to net interest margin, despite recent interest rate cuts [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide clarity on the resolution timeline for the Southern California credits and the life insurance premium finance loan? - Management indicated that the resolution for the Southern California loans may take longer than anticipated due to a secondary bankruptcy filing, while the life insurance loan is expected to be resolved through litigation, with full principal coverage assured [36][38] Question: What is the company's exposure to non-depository financial institutions (NDFIs)? - The company has approximately $260 to $270 million in balances across 18 to 20 relationships with private lenders, primarily secured by first mortgages on residential real estate [39][40] Question: What are the expectations for non-interest expenses in the fourth quarter? - The company anticipates total expenses to be around $112 million, factoring in branch acquisition costs and normalizing for non-recurring items [67] Question: How does the company view its capital priorities moving forward? - The focus remains on organic growth, with potential for share buybacks if suitable M&A opportunities do not arise [58][76] Question: What is driving the growth in specialty deposits? - The company has invested in people and systems, leading to a variable cost model that is profitable and allows for market share growth [77]