Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The operating return on assets was 1.37% for the third quarter, with a return on equity of 12.1% and a return on tangible common equity (ROTCE) of 17.6%, showing continued improvement over linked and prior year quarters [3] - Net income for the third quarter was $54.5 million, or $1.03 per diluted common share, with operating earnings per share at $1.05, an increase of $0.17 per share compared to the prior quarter [9] - Revenues grew approximately 9% from the prior quarter and 26% from the third quarter of the prior year, driven by improvements in net interest income [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans increased by $1.6 billion for the year, including acquired loans from Evans Bancorp, with annualized loan growth in 2025 being approximately 1% higher from December 2024 [9] - The total loan portfolio of $11.6 billion is comprised of 56% commercial relationships and 44% consumer loans [10] - Total deposits of $13.7 billion were up $2.1 billion from December 2024, with growth in checking and money market accounts [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced solid growth in deposits in the Western region of New York post-merger with Evans Bancorp, retaining key lending relationships despite approximately $30 million of net contractual runoff in the portfolio [6] - The new Malta, New York branch near GlobalFoundries is seeing excellent traffic and growth, while the Hudson Valley market is experiencing positive demographic shifts [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to open a financial center in Rochester during 2026 and is exploring locations in the Finger Lakes to enhance its branch network [6] - The company is focused on scaling operations in New Hampshire and optimizing branch locations to remain agile and responsive to market needs [8] - The management is interested in fill-in strategies for M&A opportunities with like-minded community banks to expand the franchise [33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed that recent and expected changes to Fed funds rates may challenge future margin improvements compared to recent quarters [4] - The company is in a strong capital position and has growth opportunities across all markets, well-positioned to take advantage of them [15] - Management anticipates low to mid-single-digit loan growth rates in early to mid-2026, with a robust pipeline of lending opportunities [20] Other Important Information - The company announced an 8.8% improvement to its dividend to shareholders, marking the 13th consecutive year of increases [5] - Total operating expenses, excluding acquisition expenses, were $110 million for the quarter, reflecting a full quarter of Evans activity [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for cost savings and total expenses moving forward? - Management indicated that cost savings have been achieved during the third quarter, and the run rate of $110 million is expected to be appropriate going forward, with typical expense increases running between 3.5% and 4.5% [18] Question: What is the outlook for loan growth in the coming quarters? - Management expects low to mid-single-digit growth rates for loans, with a strong pipeline and good activity levels in the markets [20] Question: What is the expected number of new branches and talent recruitment? - Management anticipates adding four to six new branches per year to improve market concentration and has been productive in recruiting talent in the Western region of New York [28] Question: Is the company considering additional M&A deals? - Management is open to fill-in strategies for M&A opportunities with smaller community banks to expand their franchise [33] Question: What are the expectations for margin pressure in the near term? - Management indicated potential margin pressure in the fourth quarter due to deposit repricing dynamics, but there may be opportunities for margin improvement in 2026 [34][76]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - NBT Bancorp reported net income of $54.5 million, or $1.03 per diluted common share, with operating earnings per share at $1.05, an increase of $0.17 compared to the prior quarter [10] - Operating return on assets was 1.37%, return on equity was 12.1%, and ROTCE was 17.6%, showing continued improvement [3] - Tangible book value per share increased by 7% year-over-year to $25.51 [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans increased by $1.6 billion year-over-year, with a diversified portfolio comprising 56% commercial and 44% consumer loans [11] - Total deposits rose to $13.7 billion, up $2.1 billion from December 2024, with growth in checking and money market accounts [12] - Non-interest income represented 28% of total revenues, with fee income increasing by 9.8% compared to the previous quarter [14][13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Western region of New York saw solid growth in deposits post-Evans Bancorp merger, with plans for new branches in Rochester and other areas [6][8] - The company is exploring new locations in the Finger Lakes and plans to break ground on a new branch near the Micron chip fabrication site in Clay, New York [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to support organic growth and maintain a strong capital position, with a renewed share repurchase authorization of 2 million shares through the end of 2027 [5] - NBT Bancorp is focused on filling in its franchise through opportunistic M&A and branch expansion, particularly in underrepresented markets [29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in maintaining a strong capital position and identified growth opportunities across all markets [16] - Future margin improvements may be challenged due to expected changes in Fed funds rates, but there is optimism for potential margin recovery in 2026 [31][58] Other Important Information - The company announced an 8.8% dividend increase, marking the 13th consecutive year of increases [5] - Total operating expenses for the quarter were $110 million, reflecting a 4.4% increase from the prior quarter [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for cost savings and total expenses moving forward? - Management indicated that cost savings from the Evans integration are largely achieved, with a run rate of $110 million expected going forward, alongside typical expense increases of 3.5% to 4.5% [18][19] Question: What is the outlook for loan growth in the coming quarters? - Management anticipates low to mid-single-digit growth rates for loans, with a strong pipeline and good activity levels in the markets [20][21] Question: Are there plans for additional M&A deals? - The company is open to opportunistic M&A to fill in its franchise and is in discussions with like-minded community banks [29] Question: What is the current status of solar loans and auto loan delinquencies? - Management noted no significant pressure on auto loan delinquencies and indicated that solar loans are performing as expected, despite market volatility [35][36] Question: What is the outlook for fee income and insurance growth? - The insurance business is expected to grow at a rate of high mid-single digits, with seasonally strong performance in the third quarter [48][49] Question: What are the expectations for margin pressure and potential improvements? - Management expects some initial pressure on margins but sees potential for improvement in 2026 if the yield curve steepens [57][58]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $106 million, or $1.54 per diluted share, with a return on assets at 1.56% and return on tangible common equity at 14.6% [9][10] - The efficiency ratio improved to 49.19% from 51.63% in the previous quarter, driven by a strong 17.8% annualized revenue growth [9][12] - Tangible book value per share grew to $42.90, reflecting a strong 15.2% annualized growth [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan portfolio production topped $2 billion, with a 4% annualized loan growth primarily from commercial and industrial (C&I) and commercial real estate (CRE) [6][7] - Non-interest income increased by $7.4 million, mainly from better equipment finance fees and a non-recurring gain on securities [11] - The company repurchased approximately $8.5 million of common stock, with a new share repurchase plan of $200 million approved [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposits increased by $295 million, with core deposits growing by $355 million, while brokered CDs represented only 5% of total deposits [13][14] - Non-interest-bearing deposits remained strong at 30.4% of total deposits [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on growing its core deposit base and tangible book value per share, with an emphasis on revenue growth and positive operating leverage [4][8] - The management is optimistic about capitalizing on growth opportunities in the Southeastern markets, particularly amid ongoing banking disruptions [7][8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism regarding loan demand and pipeline trends, anticipating potential growth acceleration into 2026 [19][49] - The company expects some margin compression in the coming quarters due to rising deposit costs, but remains focused on net interest income growth [11][41] Other Important Information - The company’s capital ratios improved, with common equity tier one at 13.2% and tangible common equity at 11.3% [5] - Asset quality remains stable, with low levels of net charge-offs and non-performing assets [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan demand and pipeline trends - Management noted strong demand across all verticals and steady payoffs, expressing optimism for the fourth quarter and beyond [18][19] Question: Competition landscape - Competition is primarily on pricing, but management believes disruption in the market will provide additional volume opportunities [20][21] Question: Equipment finance demand and credit trends - Demand in equipment finance is picking up, with declining charge-offs indicating a healthy credit environment [24][25] Question: Expense growth outlook - Management anticipates a 5.5% increase in expenses next year, driven by salary and benefit increases [36][37] Question: Margin outlook and deposit costs - Management expects margin compression due to deposit repricing and competition, but remains focused on growing non-interest-bearing deposits [40][41] Question: Loan growth potential - Management is optimistic about the potential for loan growth to accelerate into the high single digits or even double digits, depending on macroeconomic conditions [49][50] Question: Investment portfolio size - The investment portfolio is expected to stabilize around 9% to 10% of total assets, with a focus on deposit growth [51] Question: M&A versus organic growth - Management prioritizes organic growth opportunities over M&A, given the current market disruption [53] Question: Mortgage activity and demand - Management is hopeful for increased mortgage activity as interest rates stabilize, with a significant increase in applications noted [60]

Core Insights - Eagle Bancorp Montana, Inc. reported a net income of $3.6 million, or $0.46 per diluted share, for Q3 2025, reflecting an increase from $3.2 million, or $0.41 per diluted share, in the previous quarter and $2.7 million, or $0.34 per diluted share, in Q3 2024 [1][5][30] - For the first nine months of 2025, net income rose to $10.1 million, or $1.29 per diluted share, compared to $6.3 million, or $0.81 per diluted share, in the same period of 2024 [1][30] - The board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.145 per share, representing an annualized yield of 3.41% based on recent market prices [2] Financial Performance - Net interest income before provision for credit losses increased by 3.0% to $18.7 million in Q3 2025, compared to $18.1 million in Q2 2025, and increased by 18.3% compared to $15.8 million in Q3 2024 [5][13] - Total revenues for Q3 2025 increased by 2.0% to $23.4 million, compared to $23.0 million in the previous quarter and increased by 12.6% compared to $20.8 million in Q3 2024 [14] - Noninterest income decreased by 1.9% to $4.7 million in Q3 2025, compared to $4.8 million in the preceding quarter, but increased compared to $5.0 million in Q3 2024 [15] Balance Sheet Highlights - Total assets were $2.12 billion at September 30, 2025, a slight decrease from $2.15 billion a year ago and $2.14 billion three months earlier [4][27] - Total loans increased by 1.5% to $1.56 billion at September 30, 2025, compared to $1.52 billion a year earlier, but decreased by 0.8% from $1.57 billion at June 30, 2025 [5][7] - Total deposits increased by $101.7 million, or 6.2%, to $1.75 billion at September 30, 2025, compared to a year earlier [8][27] Credit Quality - The allowance for credit losses represented 1.14% of portfolio loans and 430.4% of nonperforming loans at September 30, 2025, compared to 1.12% and 356.7%, respectively, a year earlier [18][33] - Nonperforming loans were $4.1 million at September 30, 2025, down from $5.1 million at June 30, 2025, and $4.8 million a year earlier [18][33] Capital Management - Shareholders' equity was $186.5 million at September 30, 2025, compared to $177.7 million a year earlier and $180.6 million three months earlier [10][27] - The Tier 1 capital to adjusted total average assets ratio was 10.35% as of September 30, 2025, indicating strong capital management [19]

Core Insights - BCB Bancorp, Inc. reported a net income of $4.3 million for Q3 2025, an increase from $3.6 million in Q2 2025 but a decrease from $6.7 million in Q3 2024 [1][14] - The company declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.16 per share, payable on November 24, 2025 [2] - The CEO highlighted a profitable quarter with improved capital ratios and a strong liquidity position, alongside an expanding net interest margin [3] Financial Performance - Net interest income for Q3 2025 was $23.7 million, a slight increase from $23.1 million in Q2 2025, but a decrease from $23.0 million in Q3 2024 [40] - The net interest margin increased to 2.88% in Q3 2025 from 2.80% in Q2 2025 and 2.58% in Q3 2024 [8][17] - Total assets decreased by $246 million, or 6.8%, to $3.353 billion as of September 30, 2025, primarily due to strategic initiatives to enhance capital ratios [6] Asset Quality - The company recognized $16.9 million in net charge-offs during Q3 2025, significantly higher than $3.4 million in Q3 2024, largely due to a $12.7 million charge-off related to a cannabis loan [18][30] - Non-accrual loans totaled $93.5 million, or 3.31% of gross loans, at September 30, 2025, compared to $35.3 million, or 1.13%, a year earlier [31] Balance Sheet Highlights - Total deposits were $2.687 billion at September 30, 2025, a slight increase from $2.662 billion at June 30, 2025 [8][11] - The allowance for credit losses increased to $37.8 million, or 1.34% of gross loans, as of September 30, 2025, compared to $34.8 million, or 1.15%, at December 31, 2024 [9][19] - Stockholders' equity decreased by $5.5 million, or 1.7%, to $318.5 million at September 30, 2025, primarily due to a decline in retained earnings [13] Year-to-Date Performance - For the first nine months of 2025, the company reported a net loss of $498,000, a significant decline from a profit of $15.4 million in the same period of 2024 [23][42] - Net interest income for the first nine months of 2025 was $130.4 million, down 11.5% from $147.4 million in 2024 [24] - Non-interest income increased to $6.6 million for the first nine months of 2025, compared to $2.0 million in the same period of 2024 [27]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q3 2025, the company reported net income of $4.9 million, a decrease of $16.9 million or 77.5% compared to the previous quarter [12] - Diluted earnings per share were $0.16, down from $0.72 in the linked quarter [12] - Net interest income increased by $1.45 million or 2.7% compared to the linked quarter [16] - The tax equivalent net interest margin decreased by one basis point to 2.94% [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans increased to $4.77 billion, a linked quarter increase of $163.4 million or 3.5% [12] - The average rate of loans funded during the quarter was approximately 6.7% [12] - Non-interest income, excluding the net loss on the sales of available-for-sale (AFS) securities, increased by $260,000 or 2.1% [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company’s securities portfolio was $2.56 billion, a decrease of $174.2 million or 6.4% from the previous quarter [13] - Deposits increased by $329.6 million or 5% on a linked quarter basis [15] - Non-performing assets increased to approximately $2.7 million, but remained low at 0.42% of total assets [10][13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on repositioning its available-for-sale (AFS) securities portfolio to enhance future net interest income and provide balance sheet flexibility [4] - The company anticipates continued growth in the Texas economy, which is expected to outpace the overall U.S. growth rate [6] - The company is exploring potential acquisitions and hiring opportunities due to market disruptions caused by larger banks [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about net interest income growth due to favorable market conditions and loan growth [5][21] - The company expects net interest margin to improve slightly in Q4 2025, driven by loan growth and securities restructuring [21] - Management noted that competition in the market remains intense, particularly in commercial real estate and C&I lending [30] Other Important Information - The company issued $150 million of subordinated notes at a 7% fixed to floating rate in mid-August [15] - The company repurchased 26,692 shares of common stock at an average price of $30.24 during the third quarter [16] - The effective tax rate for Q3 was 3.7%, a decrease from 17.8% in the prior quarter [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the expected net interest margin for Q4? - Management expects the net interest margin to be up slightly due to the impact of subordinated notes and loan growth [21] Question: Any updates on potential acquisitions? - Management indicated interest in a few institutions that might be for sale and mentioned ongoing hiring efforts due to market disruptions [24] Question: How is the loan pipeline looking entering Q4? - The loan pipeline rebounded to $1.8 billion, indicating strong future growth potential despite a dip mid-quarter [28] Question: What is the outlook for trust fees? - Management anticipates double-digit revenue growth in trust fees due to a strong team and increasing client base [37] Question: How many rate cuts are anticipated through year-end and into 2026? - Management anticipates at least two rate cuts next year, depending on inflation and employment conditions [39]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q3 2025, the company reported net income of $8.9 million or $0.45 per diluted share, an increase from $6.9 million or $0.35 per share in Q3 2024, representing a 29% year-over-year growth [2][8] - Return on average assets increased to 1.27% from 1.11% a year ago, while return on average equity improved to 15.74% from 13.38% [3][8] - The efficiency ratio strengthened to 52.28%, reflecting disciplined expense management [3][10] - Net interest margin expanded to 3.14% compared to 3.03% in the same quarter last year [3][10] - Total assets reached $2.8 billion, marking a 10.5% year-over-year growth [3][4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net interest income before provision for credit losses was $21.3 million, up $3.2 million or 17.5% from the prior year [3][13] - Loans held for investment grew to $2.1 billion, an increase of more than $199 million or 10.3% from $1.9 billion a year ago [4][10] - Non-performing loans declined to 0.06% of total loans, down from 0.14% last year, indicating strong credit quality [4][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits ended the quarter at $2.5 billion, marking a robust 15.5% year-over-year increase [3][4] - Average deposits increased to $166 million or nearly 29% compared to the prior quarter and are up $380 million or 18% year over year [10][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on relationship-based growth and has added new production personnel to support growth plans in diversified deposit-focused business verticals [4][10] - The management highlighted the strength of Florida's economy as a key driver of success, with real GDP growth tracking around 2.4% in 2025 [25][26] - The company aims to leverage opportunities in the association banking vertical, with plans to potentially double the book of business in the next 18 months [39] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustaining momentum into 2026, citing solid business fundamentals and a vibrant market [54] - The company anticipates improvements in net interest margin as excess cash is put to work in loan volume and securities portfolio [14][45] - Management noted that the current economic environment aligns well with the company's strategy, particularly in serving middle market businesses and real estate development [26] Other Important Information - The company completed a $40 million subordinated debt issuance, primarily used for share repurchase, which underscores confidence in the intrinsic value of its stock [5][8] - Tangible book value per share grew to $11.55, reflecting the impact of the share repurchase [5][10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you quantify the yacht payoffs in the quarter? - The yacht payoffs were a little over $10 million and occurred in August, impacting loan yields and margin [29] Question: Is the loan production in September a sign of sustained momentum? - Management believes it is a sign of sustained loan momentum, with a strong pipeline for Q4 [31] Question: How is competition impacting loan pricing? - The market is very competitive, and pricing is based on relationships rather than transactions [32] Question: What is the outlook for the margin in Q4? - A margin of 3.27% is expected for Q4, with further rate cuts anticipated [37][44] Question: What are the expectations for non-interest income? - Non-interest income is expected to remain stable, with activity in wire fees and swap fees anticipated to continue [38] Question: What growth opportunities exist in the association banking business? - The company is bullish on the association banking vertical, with significant growth potential identified [39]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net earnings of $6.8 million and earnings per share of $0.28 for Q3 2025, compared to core income of $2 million and $0.08 per share in Q3 2024 [5] - Return on Assets (ROA) and Return on Tangible Common Equity (ROTCE) improved to 70 basis points and 9.45%, respectively [5] - Core ROA adjusted for certain items is closer to 90 basis points, aligning with the target of 1% ROA [6] - Net interest margin increased to 3.18%, up from 2.86% in the previous quarter and 2.97% year-over-year [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The mortgage division's production increased from approximately $20 million to $100-$120 million per month over the past few years, with pre-tax earnings of about $1.9 million in Q3 [11] - The Mortgage Warehouse division showed average balances of $210 million, ending balances of $327 million, and pre-tax earnings of about $1.6 million [12] - Panacea Financial Division's loan balances rose to $530 million, with deposits growing to $132 million, a 50% increase year-over-year [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-interest-bearing checking accounts grew by about 16% compared to a year ago, improving the deposit mix and reducing the cost of deposits by almost 20% [7] - Average earning assets increased by 10% annualized in Q3 2025 [19] - Non-interest income reached $12 million, up from $10.6 million in the previous quarter, driven primarily by increased mortgage revenue [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to increase the proportion of non-interest-bearing deposits to around 20% of total deposits, focusing on enhancing the deposit mix [34] - The strategy includes leveraging technology and customer relationships to drive down deposit costs while maintaining competitive rates [40][46] - The company is focused on sustainable growth in the mortgage and Panacea divisions, with plans to maintain strong production levels [31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving a 1% ROA goal, citing strong operational momentum and a favorable deposit mix [25] - The company anticipates continued growth in profitability with fewer one-time items affecting core earnings [25] - Management noted that credit quality remains stable, with expectations for resolution of certain non-accrual loans in the coming quarters [50] Other Important Information - The company experienced limited impacts on net interest margin from consumer programs and expects this to continue [20] - The mortgage division's profitability rebounded significantly, with a notable increase in loan funding compared to the previous year [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on overall loan growth for Q4 and into 2026 - Management indicated potential for continued growth in the Mortgage Warehouse division and projected 6-8% growth for the core bank [30][31] Question: Timing for reaching a 3.30% margin - Management expects to approach a 3.30% margin by the first quarter of next year, focusing on increasing non-interest-bearing deposits [34] Question: Impact of interest rate changes on deposit costs - Management noted that while competition may drive rates, their strategy of increasing checking accounts allows for competitive positioning [40] Question: Stickiness of digital banking customers - Management confirmed that digital customers are proving to be stickier than expected, with high retention rates and significant average balances [42][46] Question: Resolution of asset quality issues - Management expressed optimism about resolving certain non-accrual loans within the next few quarters, particularly in the C&I sector [50]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $25.7 million or $0.50 per diluted share for Q3 2025, a slight decrease from $26.4 million or $0.51 per diluted share in Q2 2025, reflecting an annualized ROA of 0.97% and an annualized ROATCE of 11.45% [7] - Net interest income increased to $100.6 million in Q3 2025 from $98.3 million in Q2 2025, with a net interest margin of 4.2% compared to 4.18% in the previous quarter [7][8] - The allowance for credit losses on loans decreased to $78.9 million or 1.1% of loans, down from $83.2 million or 1.14% at the end of Q2 2025 [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-interest income decreased to $5 million in Q3 2025 from $5.8 million in Q2 2025, primarily due to write-downs on foreclosed assets [10] - Non-interest expenses increased to $73.1 million from $70 million in the previous quarter, driven by higher salaries and benefits, including severance expenses related to branch closures [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a significant increase in loan originations, up 62% year-to-date compared to the same period last year, with a focus on commercial and industrial (C&I) loans [21] - Deposit growth was strong, with 51% of new deposits coming from new customers, indicating successful market share gains [28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maintain a disciplined approach to building quality assets and protecting margins while focusing on full balance relationships to drive long-term shareholder value [6][12] - The management highlighted the importance of low-cost deposits and plans to continue acquiring customers while being cautious about competitive pressures in the market [30][31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the stability of credit trends and the overall market, despite some charge-offs, indicating a favorable outlook for the company's credit quality [4][25] - The company is positioned to take advantage of opportunities arising from M&A disruptions in Texas, emphasizing its unique franchise strength in a competitive landscape [12] Other Important Information - The company repurchased shares totaling just under $5 million in Q3 2025, with a year-to-date total of approximately $64 million in share repurchases [11] - The total risk-based capital ratio improved to 16.33% at the end of Q3 2025, up from 15.98% at the end of Q2 2025 [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is driving the payoffs and paydowns, and what is the growth outlook? - Management noted that payoffs were about $50 million more than the previous quarter, with 44% related to collateral sales and 25% due to refinancing elsewhere, indicating a competitive market [19][20] Question: What are the current credit concerns and management's approach? - Management emphasized the importance of stress testing and careful monitoring of credit quality, with a focus on maintaining a healthy loan-to-deposit ratio [24][25] Question: What are the drivers behind the strong deposit growth? - The company reported that 51% of new deposits were from new customers, reflecting successful brand awareness and market share gains [28] Question: What are the expectations for seasonal deposit strength in Q4? - Management acknowledged historical seasonal strength in government banking deposits but noted the unpredictability of timing [36][38] Question: What makes the current expense level an outlier? - Management indicated that the increase in expenses was due to severance payments and elevated medical insurance costs, expecting expenses to return closer to previous levels in Q4 [40][42] Question: How does the company plan to manage deposit costs moving forward? - The company plans to focus on lowering deposit costs where possible, particularly for price-sensitive customers, while defending its net interest margin [46][49] Question: What are the company's thoughts on M&A opportunities? - Management continues to explore M&A opportunities but remains cautious about protecting the balance sheet and deposit base [60][61]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $25.7 million or $0.50 per diluted share for Q3 2025, a slight decrease from $26.4 million or $0.51 per diluted share in Q2 2025, reflecting an annualized ROA of 0.97% and an annualized ROATCE of 11.45% [6][11] - Net interest income increased to $100.6 million in Q3 2025 from $98.3 million in Q2 2025, driven by higher earning assets and a net interest margin of 4.2%, up from 4.18% in the previous quarter [6][7] - The allowance for credit losses on loans decreased to $78.9 million or 1.1% of loans, down from $83.2 million or 1.14% at the end of Q2 2025 [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-interest income decreased to $5 million in Q3 2025 from $5.8 million in Q2 2025, primarily due to write-downs on foreclosed assets [10] - Non-interest expenses increased to $73.1 million from $70 million in the previous quarter, attributed to higher salaries and benefits, including severance expenses related to branch closures [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced strong deposit growth, with 51% of new deposits coming from new customers, indicating a successful strategy in expanding market share [24] - The total risk-based capital ratio improved to 16.33% at the end of Q3 2025, compared to 15.98% at the end of Q2 2025 [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance shareholder value through disciplined asset building, protecting margins, and focusing on full client relationships [5] - The management emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong balance sheet to support quality growth and to be opportunistic in the current competitive landscape [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in credit quality, noting that charge-offs were primarily from small credits that were already identified and reserved for [4] - The company anticipates continued loan origination growth, with a healthy pipeline and a year-to-date increase of 62% in loan originations compared to the previous year [18] Other Important Information - The company repurchased shares and paid down $30 million of subordinated debt after the quarter ended, reinforcing its capital position [5] - The tangible book value per share increased by 9.3% year-over-year, from $19.28 to $21.08 [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is driving the payoffs and paydowns? - Payoffs were about $50 million more than the previous quarter, with 44% related to collateral sales and 25% to refinancing elsewhere [16][17] Question: What are the current credit concerns? - Management stated that stress testing and portfolio monitoring are in place, and they are cautious about the mix of C&I credits while maintaining a focus on real estate loans [19][20] Question: What are the drivers behind deposit growth? - The growth was driven by new accounts, with 51% of new deposits from new customers, reflecting brand awareness and customer satisfaction improvements [24] Question: What are the expectations for loan growth and payoffs? - Management expects a lift from advances exceeding paydowns, with a healthy pipeline and loan originations anticipated to continue growing [44][46] Question: What is the company's approach to M&A? - The company is cautious about M&A, focusing on finding partners that align with their funding structure and protecting their balance sheet [48]