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

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

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core earnings per share for Q3 2025 was $0.91, with year-to-date core EPS at $2.66, reflecting a 3% growth compared to the previous year [3][9] - Net income was reported at $26.8 million, or $0.88 per diluted share, while core net income was $27.6 million, or $0.91 per diluted share [9] - Net interest income increased by 4.9% to $76.4 million, with a net interest margin rising by 5 basis points to 3.6% [9][10] - Non-performing assets decreased by $12.2 million, or 34.6%, to $23 million, representing 0.26% of total assets [4][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans grew by $99 million across growth mode portfolios, achieving a 3.3% growth rate, up from 2.1% in the previous quarter [5][6] - The PACE portfolio saw total assessments grow by $27.4 million, with CPACE growing over 8% [5] - Deposits increased by $415 million, with notable growth in the political segment (19% increase) and climate and sustainability segment (21% increase) [6][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total on-balance sheet deposits increased by $149 million, or 1.9%, to $7.6 billion [10] - The tangible book value per share increased by $0.98, or 4%, to $25.31, marking a 46% growth since September 2021 [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is investing in a fully integrated digital modernization platform to enhance productivity and customer understanding [7] - The focus remains on maintaining a balanced and predictable contribution from lending channels while managing geographic diversity [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, highlighting strong deposit growth and a solid credit portfolio [6][7] - The company raised its full-year 2025 core pre-tax pre-provision earnings guidance to $164 to $165 million [16] Other Important Information - The allowance for credit losses on loans decreased by $2.5 million to $56.5 million, with a ratio of 1.18% [15] - The company plans to continue share buybacks until the share price reflects forward earnings projections [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Specific reserve mentioned on page 11 - The specific reserve of $1.9 million is related to a multifamily property with an updated appraisal indicating a change in LTV [19][20] Question: Impact of potential rent freezes in New York City - Management does not expect significant impact in the next 18 to 24 months and is monitoring the situation closely [21][22][23] Question: Concerns about federal funding for green energy projects - Existing projects are secure as funding streams are locked in, and the company is seeing acceleration in project transactions [24][25][26][30] Question: Positioning against regulatory scrutiny - The company focuses on compliance with laws and regulations, emphasizing solid performance and risk management [31][32] Question: Expense management and guidance - Expenses are on track with the $170 million annual target, with potential upside if Q4 expenses align with Q3 [35][39] Question: Loan yields and new originations - Loan yields are expected to decline due to anticipated rate cuts, with current origination yields remaining strong [40][42]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a one-time expense of $3,700,000 from the early redemption of bonds, impacting earnings per share (EPS) by approximately $0.57 after tax [3] - A discrete tax-related expense of $1,300,000 from prior Mexico operations impacted EPS by approximately $0.26 after tax [4] - The total impact of these unusual events on EPS for the quarter was around $1.61 after tax [4][5] - The company experienced a year-over-year increase in new customer origination volume of approximately 40% at the end of the second quarter [6] - The portfolio nominally grew by 5.5% year-over-year, with a 1.5% increase compared to the previous year [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - New customer origination volume for the year-to-date is up 35%, returning to pre-COVID levels [6] - The first pay default rate and delinquency rate for new originations are in line with fiscal years 2019 and 2020 [8] - Non-refinance originations increased by 15% year-over-year in the second quarter, marking the highest volume for that quarter except for fiscal year 2022 [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has seen a stable and improving delinquency rate while maintaining credit quality [10] - The company has proactively tightened its credit box for new customers multiple times this fiscal year, although no major signs of weakness in consumer performance have been observed [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on substantial customer base expansion, strong loan growth, and improved loan approval rates while maintaining credit quality [10] - Marketing efforts have shifted to a test-and-learn environment, successfully reducing the cost of acquisition for new customers [25] - The company aims for modest growth in marketing budgets, targeting mid to low single digits for portfolio growth and mid to high single digits for customer base growth [26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the overall health of the consumer, noting that while there are signs of weakness in the auto loan sector, their portfolio remains stable [21][22] - The company is optimistic about returning enhanced value to shareholders through strong EPS growth and a declining share count [10] Other Important Information - The company repurchased and canceled $170,000,000 of bonds and established a $175,000,000 warehouse facility [9] - A new credit agreement was completed, increasing commitments to $640,000,000 and allowing for stock repurchases of up to 100% of net income [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on the three discrete items impacting EPS - The impact on EPS was $0.26 from Mexico, $0.57 from bond redemption, and $0.78 from increased provision due to new customer growth [14] Question: Inquiry about operating expenses and personnel expense increase - The net difference in personnel expense was confirmed, with a decrease expected in future quarters [16] Question: Health of the underlying consumer and its impact on demand and credit - Management noted no major signs of weakness in their portfolio despite broader market concerns, with proactive credit tightening measures in place [22] Question: Update on marketing efforts and competitive environment - The company has successfully reduced acquisition costs through new marketing strategies and is seeing increased demand and application volume [26]

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 [9] - 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 [15] 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][34] Question: Margin and deposit cost adjustments 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 [38][39] 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 capital deployment through buybacks depending on market conditions [43][44]

Net Interest Income & Margin - Net interest income is expected to continue to grow at double digits into the end of this year and next year [2] - Net interest margin guidance is between 3 and 5 basis points [2] Regional Economic Activity & Lending - Central New York is experiencing strong employment growth, even before the Micron investment [4] - Manufacturing is strong from Western New York through Massachusetts up to northeastern Pennsylvania, driving growth [5][6] - The company is seeing increased activity from contractors and subcontractors preparing for site work, beginning in November [5] Credit Quality & Loan Provisions - Credit quality is very good in the company's markets [7] - The company lowered loan provisions due to strong housing and commercial lending markets [6][7] - The company is not seeing signs of stress in credit markets, except for temporary weakness related to Canadian tourism in Vermont and northern New York [8]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $35.3 million or $0.92 earnings per diluted share, with an adjusted net income of $36.6 million or $0.96 earnings per diluted share, reflecting a 30% annualized increase over the prior quarter [8][9] - Return on tangible common equity was 14.72%, achieved while maintaining a high level of capital [6][9] - Fully taxable equivalent net interest margin expanded three basis points to 3.98%, with an 11 basis points increase year-over-year [10][11] - Non-interest income totaled $20.7 million, a 21% increase from the previous quarter and a 13% increase year-over-year [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan fundings for the quarter reached $421 million, bringing year-to-date total loan fundings to $1 billion [9][20] - Commercial Banking, particularly in the C&I portfolio, saw an annualized growth rate of 8.7% [15] - Non-performing loans decreased by 20%, now standing at $27 million, with a non-performing loan ratio improving to 36 basis points [10][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits increased by $2 million from the prior quarter, with average deposits steady at $8.2 billion [11] - The cost of deposits was 2.08%, and the total cost of funds was 2.1% [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company announced a merger with Vista Bancshares, expected to close in the first quarter, which is anticipated to enhance market share and operational capabilities [7][15] - The company is focused on maintaining pricing discipline and managing loan and deposit pricing effectively [10][20] - Plans to leverage the strengths of Vista in treasury management and wealth management to enhance service offerings [64] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the loan pipeline and credit quality trends, indicating a strong outlook for the fourth quarter [7][15] - The company is prepared to adjust deposit rates in response to potential Fed rate cuts, aiming to maintain net interest margins [26][27] - Management highlighted the competitive landscape, particularly from private credit in the commercial real estate sector, but remains confident in their positioning [38][54] Other Important Information - The company incurred approximately $1.7 million in acquisition-related expenses during the quarter [8][12] - Non-interest expense totaled $67.2 million, including $6.2 million related to the launch of 2Unify [12][13] - The tangible book value per share grew 12% annualized to $27.45 [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the margin guidance and expected impacts from rate cuts? - Management indicated that the third quarter's margin was positively impacted by recoveries and expressed confidence in maintaining a mid-3.9% margin despite potential rate cuts [25][26] Question: What are the expectations for expenses related to 2Unify? - Management confirmed that the increase in 2Unify expenses was expected and will continue to invest in marketing and variable costs as client onboarding progresses [28][29] Question: How is the company positioned regarding loan growth and paydowns? - Management clarified that the reduction in loan volume was primarily due to heavy payoffs rather than directive paydowns, and expressed optimism about returning to growth in the fourth quarter [37][39] Question: What are the company's thoughts on private credit competition? - Management noted that competition from private credit is primarily seen in the commercial real estate sector, but they are confident in their ability to compete effectively [54] Question: What are the plans for capital deployment and buybacks? - Management confirmed that they have $35-36 million remaining in buyback authorization and will be opportunistic in capital deployment while considering potential M&A opportunities [56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved a net income of $21.9 million, translating to a diluted EPS of $1.13, with a return on average assets of 1.6% and return on average equity of 15.7% [9][12] - The net interest margin (NIM) increased to 4.11% from 4.07% in the previous quarter, indicating effective loan pricing and funding cost management [3][9] - Non-interest expenses decreased by $1.3 million compared to the prior quarter, leading to an efficiency ratio improvement from 60.3% to 56.4% [4][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was strong, with an annualized growth rate of 4.9% in the third quarter, reflecting successful alignment of the acquired portfolio with the company's risk profile [3][7] - Fee income as a percentage of operating revenue remained stable at 20.8%, with non-interest income increasing to $13.4 million from $12.9 million in the previous quarter [4][10] - The loan portfolio reached nearly $4 billion with an average yield of 6.58%, and loan production during the quarter was $224 million [14][15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced increased competition in both loan and deposit pricing, particularly in growth markets such as Baltimore, Lancaster, and Harrisburg [21][22] - The cost of deposits declined slightly, and the company adjusted deposit pricing downward to align with market rates [15][36] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining credit quality while pursuing prudent growth, with a proactive approach to managing risk in its portfolio [5][8] - The management emphasized the importance of relationship banking, which allows for high engagement and local decision-making to meet client needs [7][22] - The company plans to continue investing in its future while managing expenses, with a target quarterly run rate around $36 million [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, citing successful execution of the merger with Kudor's Value as a key factor in current financial performance [4][17] - The company is aware of economic uncertainties and is focused on maintaining a solid foundation for future growth [8][12] - Management indicated that while NIM may face pressure from potential rate cuts, strategic pricing actions could help mitigate this impact [19][35] Other Important Information - The company redeemed $32.5 million of subordinated debt, which is expected to reduce interest expenses going forward [9][10] - The allowance coverage ratio was 1.21% at the end of the quarter, which management believes adequately addresses the risk of loss in the loan portfolio [12][13] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the expected impact of Fed rate cuts on NIM? - Management indicated that while NIM may experience some downward pressure, competitive pricing and strategic actions could help maintain it within the 4.0% to 4.15% range [19][20] Question: Where is the competition in loan and deposit pricing coming from? - Competition varies by market, with larger competitors and those closer in size contributing to the competitive landscape [21][22] Question: Can you provide details on classified loans? - The largest classified loans total about $20 million, with some being in commercial real estate and other C&I credits [29][30] Question: What is the lending focus for next year? - The company plans to focus on commercial real estate and has recently hired additional talent in the C&I space to enhance its offerings [31][32] Question: What tools are available to mitigate NIM compression? - Management highlighted pricing adjustments on deposits and maintaining loan pricing as key strategies to offset potential NIM compression [35][36]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved a net income of $21.9 million, translating to a diluted EPS of $1.13, with a return on average assets of 1.6% and return on average equity of 15.7% [9][12] - The net interest margin (NIM) increased to 4.11% from 4.07% in the previous quarter, reflecting prudent loan pricing and effective management of funding costs [3][9] - Non-interest expenses decreased by $1.3 million compared to the prior quarter, leading to an efficiency ratio improvement from 60.3% to 56.4% [4][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was strong, with an annualized growth rate of 4.9% in the third quarter, supported by a solid pipeline [3][7] - Fee income as a percentage of operating revenue remained stable at 20.8%, with non-interest income increasing to $13.4 million from $12.9 million in the previous quarter [4][11] - The loan portfolio reached nearly $4 billion with an average yield of 6.58%, and loan interest increased to $66.0 million from $63.2 million [13][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposits increased by $17 million, with a loan-to-deposit ratio of 88%, providing sufficient liquidity for loan funding [14][15] - The cost of deposits declined slightly, and the company adjusted deposit pricing downward to align with market rates [15][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining credit quality while pursuing prudent growth, with a proactive approach to managing risk in its loan portfolio [5][8] - The successful execution of last year's merger is seen as a key factor in the company's strong financial performance, with optimism for future growth [4][17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged economic uncertainties but expressed confidence in the bank's risk management strategies and credit quality [6][8] - The company anticipates potential NIM pressure due to expected Fed rate cuts but believes it can offset this through competitive pricing and strategic actions [19][35] Other Important Information - The company redeemed $32.5 million of subordinated debt, which is expected to reduce interest expenses going forward [9][10] - The allowance coverage ratio was 1.21%, indicating adequate risk coverage in the loan portfolio [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: NIM trajectory with potential Fed rate cuts - Management indicated that while NIM may experience some downward pressure, competitive pricing and strategic actions could help maintain current levels [19][23] Question: Competition in loan and deposit pricing - Management noted that competition varies by market, with different competitors impacting pricing dynamics [21][22] Question: Details on classified loans - The largest classified loans total approximately $20 million, with a mix of commercial real estate and other credits [29][30] Question: Lending focus for next year - The company plans to focus on commercial real estate and middle-market opportunities, leveraging newly hired talent [31][32] Question: Tools to mitigate NIM compression - Management highlighted pricing adjustments and competitive strategies as key tools to manage NIM amid rate cuts [35][36]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for the third quarter totaled $10.1 million or $0.59 per share, representing a 9% increase from the previous quarter and a 45% increase year-over-year [3][5] - Net interest income increased for the fifth consecutive quarter, rising by $1.9 million to $29.3 million, driven by higher interest income of $3.2 million [6][8] - Net interest margin expanded by six basis points to 2.98%, marking a 30 basis point increase over the last four quarters [3][7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans held for investment grew by $68 million or 8% on an annualized basis, primarily from the in-house mortgage origination business [4] - Third quarter loan originations totaled $188 million at a blended yield of 6.70%, which is 67 basis points above the prior quarter's blended loan portfolio yield [4][9] - Non-performing loans decreased by $11.3 million or 20% to $44.5 million, attributed to charge-offs and upgrades [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits increased by $178 million from the end of the second quarter to $3.4 billion, with growth across all deposit categories [11] - The allowance for loan losses to total loans held for investment ratio stood at 1.36% as of September 30, indicating appropriate risk coverage [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on addressing remaining credit issues and improving asset quality, with a goal of resolving significant non-accrual loans [20][21] - There is an ongoing effort to shift the loan portfolio mix towards commercial and industrial (C&I) loans while maintaining strong growth in residential mortgages [34][36] - The company is considering opportunities for share buybacks and refinancing sub-debt, while also investing in business growth and technology [55] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about core earnings growth and lower credit costs, viewing these as positive signs for the future [3] - The competitive landscape for liquidity remains challenging, impacting the ability to reduce funding costs significantly [7][30] - The company anticipates continued loan growth, although Q4 may see some seasonal moderation [34] Other Important Information - The tangible book value per share increased to $25.89, reflecting a 12% annualized increase [11] - The company repurchased 660,000 shares, or 4% of shares outstanding, during the third quarter [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Asset quality improvement metrics - Management acknowledged progress in asset quality but indicated that more work is needed, particularly in resolving non-accrual loans [18][19] Question: Capital and share repurchase authorization - Approximately $4 million remains in the current share repurchase program, with management open to future buybacks depending on stock price and market conditions [22][23] Question: Deposit beta and interest rates - Management noted that deposit beta has slowed due to fierce competition for liquidity, and they expect to capitalize on upcoming maturing time deposits [28][30] Question: Loan growth and portfolio mix - The pipeline remains healthy, with a focus on residential mortgages and a gradual shift towards C&I loans, although government shutdowns may impact SBA loan funding [35][36] Question: Interest recovery and FHLB advances - No significant interest recovery was noted in Q3, and FHLB advances were replaced with brokered deposits at higher rates [42][43]