Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $90.5 million for Q4 2025, a 16.5% increase from $77.7 million in Q3 2025 [4] - Diluted earnings per share increased by 18.3% to $1.33 in Q4, up from $1.13 in Q3 [4] - For the full year 2025, net income was $315.1 million, a 10.1% increase from $286 million in 2024 [4] - The net interest margin increased to 3.36% in Q4 from 3.31% in Q3 [11] - Total deposits increased by $373 million or 7.6% on an annualized basis during Q4 [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total gross loans grew by $42 million, driven by increases of $80 million in commercial real estate (CRE) loans and $17 million in residential loans [5] - Non-accrual loans were 0.6% of total loans as of December 31, 2025, down $53.3 million to $112.4 million compared to the prior quarter [8] - The average loan-to-value of CRE loans remained steady at 49% [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects loan growth in 2026 to be between 3.5% and 4.5% [5] - For 2026, deposit growth is expected to range between 4% and 5% [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to announce a new buyback program after approvals are received, with $12 million remaining under the current buyback program [4] - The management is focused on transitioning some of the maturing CDs into non-interest-bearing deposits while being sensitive to defending the existing base [18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management anticipates further benefit to the net interest margin from declining deposit costs supported by the fixed-rate proportion of the loan portfolio [11] - The competitive landscape in the local LA and New York markets remains strong, particularly for maturing CDs [18] - Management does not see any particular trends in credit migration but is closely monitoring special mention loans [20] Other Important Information - The company recorded $17.2 million in provisions for credit losses in Q4 compared to $28.7 million in Q3 [9] - The effective tax rate for Q4 2025 was 20.23% compared to 17.18% for Q3 [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you speak more in terms of what you're assuming for deposit betas embedded in that NIM outlook? - The company is assuming deposit betas in the 60% range, with market competition remaining rational in Q4 [17] Question: What are you seeing in terms of credit and any migration into criticized and overall trends? - Management noted that there are no particular trends in credit migration, with some loans being downgraded to special mention due to short-term financial issues [20][21] Question: Have you seen an elevated level of competition for incremental loan growth? - Management indicated strong competition in the C&I segment, with existing portfolios facing the most competition [29][30]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a GAAP net income of $21.71 per share for the fourth quarter, with a core net income of $23.579 per share after excluding non-core items [10][11] - The core return on average assets (ROAA) was 1.16% for the fourth quarter, exceeding the stated goal of 1% [7][10] - Earnings per share (EPS) increased by 14% year-over-year, with a 20% improvement in the fourth quarter alone [8][10] - The tangible common equity ratio increased by 90 basis points, and consolidated CET1 capital rose by 50 basis points year-over-year [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans held for investment increased by $168.4 million, or 11.1% annualized on a linked quarter basis, driven by improved demand and reduced paydowns [11] - Total deposits rose by $191.7 million, primarily due to a net increase in interest-bearing deposits [12] - The non-interest income for the fourth quarter was approximately $13.2 million, with swap fee revenue exceeding expectations [18][62] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Texas-based loans slightly declined from 39% of total loans, expected to decrease further to approximately 36% following the acquisition of Progressive Bank [12] - The company noted a balanced growth in loan production across different regions, particularly in Southwest and North Louisiana [27][66] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to focus on optimizing existing systems and deepening market presence rather than pursuing new major projects in 2026 [9][42] - There is an emphasis on sustainable ROAA, tangible book value accretion, and enhancing EPS through improved operational efficiency [9][44] - The company aims to deepen relationships with existing clients and enhance profitability before considering further M&A opportunities [43][45] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, indicating that 2026 could be even more fruitful following a pivotal 2025 [8][9] - The company is prepared to manage credit risks more effectively, learning from recent experiences with non-performing loans [30][33] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining a balanced loan portfolio to mitigate concentration risks [33] Other Important Information - The company successfully completed two major core conversions and implemented new software platforms to enhance operational capabilities [4][5] - The acquisition of Progressive Bank is expected to contribute positively to the company's growth and operational efficiency [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on loan growth and outlook - Management noted that improved pipeline demand and reduced payoffs contributed to strong loan growth in the fourth quarter, with expectations of mid-single-digit growth for 2026 [24][25] Question: Details on non-performing loans - A significant commercial real estate loan in Houston was identified as non-performing, with management indicating it is one of the largest exposures [30][32] Question: Focus on daily execution versus M&A - Management clarified that the focus for 2026 will be on optimizing existing operations rather than pursuing new acquisitions, allowing for deeper relationship building with current clients [40][43] Question: Capital management and buyback strategy - The company plans to continue share buybacks opportunistically, with a focus on attractive pricing below $120 [46][48] Question: Opportunities for hiring in the current market - Management expressed readiness to hire selectively, focusing on acquiring the right talent to support growth without needing to hire aggressively [52][54]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a GAAP net income of $21.71 per share for the fourth quarter, with core net income of $23.579 per share after excluding non-core items [10][11] - The core return on assets (ROA) was 1.16% in the fourth quarter, exceeding the company's stated goal of 1% [7][10] - Earnings per share (EPS) increased by 14% year-over-year, with a 20% improvement in the fourth quarter alone [8][10] - The tangible common equity ratio increased by 90 basis points, and consolidated CET1 capital rose by 50 basis points year-over-year [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans held for investment increased by $168.4 million, or 11.1% annualized on a linked quarter basis, driven by improved demand and reduced paydowns [11] - Total deposits rose by $191.7 million, primarily due to a net increase in interest-bearing deposits [12] - The non-interest income for the fourth quarter was approximately $13.2 million, with significant contributions from swap fee revenue [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Texas-based loans slightly declined from 39% of total loans, expected to decrease to approximately 36% following the acquisition of Progressive Bank [12] - The company experienced strong loan growth in Southwest and North Louisiana, with both regions growing over $100 million in loans and deposits each during 2025 [66] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to focus on optimizing existing systems and deepening relationships rather than pursuing new major projects in 2026 [9][42] - The management emphasized the importance of sustainable ROAA, tangible book value accretion, and enhancing EPS as key strategic goals [9][44] - The company aims to leverage its correspondent banking initiative to increase non-interest income and cross-sell products to existing clients [81] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about 2026 being even more fruitful, with a focus on daily execution and maximizing the benefits of recent system implementations [9][42] - The company acknowledged challenges in the credit environment but highlighted lessons learned regarding concentration risk and exposure management [32][34] - Management expects to maintain a neutral position on the balance sheet and achieve modest margin improvement in a slightly down rate environment [16] Other Important Information - The company began share buybacks for the first time in nearly six years and increased its common stock dividend for the seventh consecutive year [7] - The acquisition of Progressive Bank is expected to enhance the company's footprint and contribute positively to its operations [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on loan growth and outlook - Management noted that improved pipeline demand and reduced payoffs contributed to strong loan growth in the fourth quarter, with expectations of mid-single-digit growth for 2026 [24][25] Question: Details on non-performing loans - A significant commercial real estate loan in Houston was identified as non-performing, with management indicating it is one of the largest exposures on their books [30][32] Question: Focus on daily execution versus M&A - Management clarified that while they are not prioritizing new M&A opportunities, they will focus on maximizing the output from recent investments and deepening existing relationships [43][44] Question: Capital management and buyback strategy - The company plans to continue share buybacks opportunistically, with a focus on attractive pricing below $120 [46][48] Question: Opportunities for hiring in the current environment - Management indicated a willingness to hire selectively, focusing on attracting the right talent to support growth without needing to hire aggressively [52][54]

Core Insights - Great Southern Bancorp reported higher earnings for both the fourth quarter and full year of 2025, driven by stable core operations, strong credit quality, and capital deployment strategies including share repurchases [4][3] Financial Performance - Net interest income for Q4 2025 was $49.2 million, a decrease of $371,000 from the prior year and down from $50.8 million in Q3 2025, primarily due to the termination of an interest rate swap that previously contributed approximately $2 million in income [2][4] - Full year net income for 2025 reached $71.0 million, or $6.19 per diluted share, compared to $61.8 million, or $5.26 per diluted share, in 2024 [3] - Q4 net income was $16.3 million, or $1.45 per diluted share, an increase from $14.9 million, or $1.27 per diluted share, in the same quarter of the previous year [3][7] Interest Income and Expenses - Interest income fell to $73.4 million from $82.6 million a year earlier, attributed to the impact of swaps, lower average loan balances, and reduced market interest rates [1] - Interest expense totaled $24.3 million, with management noting a decline in funding costs as deposit and borrowing costs moderated [1] Asset and Loan Quality - Total assets decreased to $5.60 billion and total loans declined to $4.36 billion, influenced by elevated payoff activity, particularly in multifamily and construction loans [6][9] - Non-performing assets were reported at 0.15% of total assets, with no loan-loss provision required for 2025 [5][13] Capital Management - The company repurchased 241,000 shares in Q4 at an average price of $59.33, totaling 755,000 shares for the full year at an average price of $58.35 [18][19] - Total stockholders' equity increased to $636.1 million at year-end, up from $599.6 million in 2024, with a book value per share of $57.50 [17] Dividend and Shareholder Returns - A quarterly cash dividend of $0.43 per share was declared for Q4, with total regular dividends for 2025 amounting to $1.66 per share [18] Outlook and Challenges - Management indicated that loan growth in 2026 is expected to be challenging, primarily due to difficulties in forecasting payoffs and borrower decisions [11][12]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, the company reported net income of $16.3 million or $1.45 per diluted common share, an increase from $14.9 million or $1.27 per diluted common share in Q4 2024 [3][10] - Full-year net income for 2025 totaled $71 million or $6.19 per diluted common share, up from $61.8 million or $5.26 per diluted common share in 2024 [10][18] - Net interest income for Q4 2025 was $49.2 million, a slight decrease of $371,000 or 0.7% compared to Q4 2024 [4][11] - Non-interest income increased to $7.2 million in Q4 2025 from $6.9 million in Q4 2024 [13][14] - Non-interest expense decreased to $36 million in Q4 2025, down 2.6% from $36.9 million in Q4 2024 [8][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net loans receivable at year-end totaled $4.336 billion, a decline of $333.5 million or 7.1% from the previous year, primarily due to elevated payoff activity [5][16] - Total deposits decreased by $122.8 million or 2.7% to $4.48 billion at year-end 2025, driven by a decline in brokered deposits [6][17] - Core deposits remained stable, with a notable increase in interest-bearing checking accounts by $75 million [7][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-performing assets represented 0.15% of total assets at year-end, consistent with both the linked quarter and prior year quarter [7][17] - The company maintained strong liquidity with cash and cash equivalents totaling $189.6 million and access to approximately $1.63 billion in additional borrowing capacity [16][18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on preserving net interest margins, protecting credit quality, controlling non-interest expenses, and opportunistically repurchasing stock [3][9] - The management emphasized a conservative underwriting posture and maintaining strong capital and liquidity levels to navigate economic challenges [9][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenges in loan growth due to elevated payoffs but expressed confidence in the strength of their loan portfolio and ongoing efforts to originate new loans [30][39] - The company does not expect significant changes in net interest margins in the near term, with a slight bias towards potential increases depending on market conditions [28][29] Other Important Information - Stockholders' equity increased to $636.1 million at year-end 2025, representing 11.4% of total assets, with a book value per common share of $57.50 [18][19] - The board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.43 per common share, consistent with the previous quarter [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin outlook for 2026 - Management noted that they performed better than expected in Q4 2025, managing funding costs effectively, but did not anticipate significant margin increases moving forward [24][25][28] Question: Loan growth expectations - Management indicated that loan growth would remain challenging due to ongoing payoffs, but they are actively generating new loans [30][32][39] Question: Expense expectations for 2026 - Management acknowledged that expenses may increase due to annual salary adjustments and payroll tax resets [33]

Core Viewpoint - Bank First Corporation reported a strong financial performance for the fourth quarter and full year of 2025, with significant increases in net income and earnings per share, despite incurring merger-related expenses [1][2]. Financial Performance - Net income for Q4 2025 was $18.4 million, or $1.87 per share, up from $17.5 million, or $1.75 per share in Q4 2024 [1]. - For the full year 2025, net income reached $71.5 million, or $7.23 per share, compared to $65.6 million, or $6.50 per share in 2024 [1]. - Adjusted net income (non-GAAP) for Q4 2025 was $19.6 million, or $2.00 per share, compared to $17.4 million, or $1.74 per share in Q4 2024 [1]. - Annual adjusted net income (non-GAAP) for 2025 totaled $73.4 million, or $7.42 per share, compared to $65.0 million, or $6.45 per share in 2024 [1]. Operating Results - Net interest income (NII) for Q4 2025 was $40.2 million, an increase of $1.9 million from the previous quarter and $4.6 million from Q4 2024 [3]. - Net interest margin (NIM) improved to 4.01% in Q4 2025, up from 3.88% in the previous quarter and 3.61% in Q4 2024 [4]. Asset Quality - Nonperforming assets at December 31, 2025, were $9.0 million, down from $13.9 million in the previous quarter and $9.2 million in the prior-year fourth quarter [13]. Capital Position - Stockholders' equity was $643.8 million at December 31, 2025, an increase of $4.2 million from the end of 2024 [14]. - The book value per common share was $65.47 at December 31, 2025, compared to $63.89 at the end of 2024 [14]. Dividend Declaration - A quarterly cash dividend of $0.50 per common share was declared, representing an increase of 11.1% over the prior quarter and prior-year fourth quarter [15]. Balance Sheet - Total assets were $4.51 billion at December 31, 2025, reflecting an increase of $85.7 million during Q4 2025 [10]. - Total loans were $3.60 billion at December 31, 2025, with a contraction of $25.0 million during Q4 2025 [11]. - Total deposits were $3.70 billion at December 31, 2025, up $34.7 million from December 31, 2024 [12].

Core Viewpoint - Preferred Bank reported strong earnings for Q4 and the full year, with net income of $34.8 million for Q4 and $434 million for the full year, indicating robust profitability in the banking sector [3][5]. Financial Performance - The bank's net interest margin in December was 3.66%, slightly below the previous quarter, influenced by the December rate cut [2]. - Total cost of deposits was 3.17% in December, trending down by approximately six to seven basis points per month [2]. - For the full year, the bank earned $10.41 per share, positioning it among the top tier of the banking industry [3]. Loan and Deposit Growth - Preferred Bank experienced quarterly loan growth of $182 million, over 12%, and deposit growth of $115 million, or 7.4% [6]. - Year-to-date loan and deposit growth were reported at 7.3% and 7.2%, respectively [6]. - Management anticipates stronger loan demand in 2026, particularly in commercial real estate and C&I lending [6]. Credit Quality and Provisions - Criticized assets increased by $97 million due to a downgrade of a large relationship, with a provision of $4.3 million booked [4][8]. - Non-performing assets slightly declined, but the bank is prepared to address credit challenges within the next two quarters [11][18]. - The bank believes its reserves are adequate to cover credit situations, with qualitative factors representing 42.5% of total reserves [12]. Non-Interest Income and Expenses - The bank recorded a net gain of $1.8 million from the sale of two large OREO assets, contributing to non-interest income [13]. - Management expects first-quarter non-interest expenses to be between $21.5 million and $22.5 million, with a projected mid- to high-single-digit growth rate for the full year [16]. Capital Actions and M&A Outlook - The bank did not repurchase shares during the quarter, with future repurchases dependent on loan growth and deposit conditions [17]. - Management is reviewing potential M&A opportunities but has found pricing expectations unsatisfactory [18].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, the net income was $34.8 million, or $2.79 per share, while the full-year net income was $434 million, or $10.41 per share, indicating strong profitability within the banking industry [5][6] - The net interest margin for Q4 declined due to federal rate cuts, with a total cost of deposits reported at 3.17% for December [5][12] - Total loan growth for the quarter was $182 million, or over 12%, and deposit growth was $115 million, or 7.4% [6][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The bank's loan portfolio is 70% floating-rate, which has been impacted by recent federal rate cuts [5] - Non-performing assets slightly declined, but criticized assets increased by $97 million due to a large nine-loan relationship being classified [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Economists forecast 2026 to be a year of relative growth and stability, with improved customer outlooks for the year [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on commercial real estate and C&I loans for growth opportunities, budgeting higher numbers than the previous year [40] - The management is cautious about share repurchases, indicating that funds will likely be reserved for loan growth and deposit situations [41] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for 2026, expecting stronger loan demand and a stable market environment compared to previous downturns [8][40] - The company is actively monitoring classified loans and is prepared to take necessary actions if customers do not resolve their issues [36][42] Other Important Information - The company sold two large pieces of OREO, resulting in a net gain of $1.8 million, which was included in non-interest income [7] - The provision for loan losses was $4.3 million for the quarter, reflecting a combination of loan growth and specific reserves [91] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin visibility and deposit costs - The margin for December was 3.66%, with a total cost of deposits at 3.17% [12] Question: Deposit competition and rates - The deposit beta is around 40%, with expectations of a similar pattern in deposit costs moving forward [13] Question: Loan growth expectations - Loan growth is expected to step up from the previous year's pace, with a similar growth rate for deposits [14][15] Question: Non-interest expenses guidance - The forecast for non-interest expenses is around $21.5 to $22 million for the first quarter [16][18] Question: CD maturities and rates - About $1.3 billion in CDs are maturing in Q1 at a weighted average rate of 3.96% [22] Question: Classified loans and workout strategies - The management is optimistic about resolving classified loans within two quarters, with various options available [42][44] Question: Fee income baseline for 2026 - The Q4 fee income, excluding one-time impacts, is considered a good baseline for 2026 [57] Question: M&A appetite - The company is reviewing potential M&A opportunities but is cautious about pricing structures [65]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, the net income was $34.8 million, or $2.79 per share, while the full year net income was $434 million, or $10.41 per share, indicating strong profitability within the banking industry [4] - The net interest margin for Q4 declined due to federal rate cuts, with a margin of 3.66% in December, slightly below the quarterly average [11][12] - Total loan growth for the quarter was $182 million, or over 12%, while deposit growth was $115 million, or 7.4% [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The bank's loan portfolio is 70% floating-rate, which was impacted by federal rate cuts, reducing loan interest income [4] - Non-performing assets slightly declined, but criticized assets increased by $97 million due to a large nine-loan relationship being classified [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Economists forecast 2026 to be a year of relative growth and stability, with improved customer outlooks for the year [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to grow loan demand, budgeting for higher numbers than the previous year, particularly in commercial real estate and C&I loans [37] - The management is cautious about share repurchases, indicating that funds will likely be reserved for loan growth and deposit situations [39] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for 2026, expecting it to be a growth year barring sudden changes in government policy [6] - The competitive landscape for deposits remains strong, with local and large money center banks actively promoting CDs [29] Other Important Information - The bank sold two large pieces of OREO, resulting in a net gain of $1.8 million, which was reported in non-interest income [5] - The provision for loan losses was $4.3 million for the quarter, reflecting a combination of loan growth and specific reserves for certain loans [70] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the spot rate on deposits and average margin for December? - The margin for December was 3.66%, and the total cost of deposits was 3.17% [11] Question: What are the expectations for deposit beta going forward? - Deposit beta is expected to remain around five to six basis points a month, depending on rate cuts and competition [12] Question: What is the forecast for non-interest expenses? - The forecast for non-interest expenses is expected to grow in the mid to high single digits [38] Question: What is the status of the classified loans? - The classified loans are currently behind in interest service, primarily due to litigation involving other banks [68] Question: What is the outlook for M&A activity? - The company is reviewing a few potential M&A deals but is cautious about pricing structures [61]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted diluted earnings per share increased by 18% quarter-over-quarter and 29% year-over-year, with an adjusted return on assets (ROA) improving to 1.29% from 0.99% in the previous year [3] - Net interest income rose by $1 million or 1.7% from the prior quarter, driven by a higher interest margin [7] - The net interest margin increased to 3.7% from 3.64% in the prior quarter and from 3.36% in the fourth quarter of the previous year [8][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loan balances increased by $14 million in Q4, with the loan portfolio growing by 5.54% [5] - Total deposits increased by $63 million in Q4, primarily due to a $100 million increase in interest-bearing demand deposits [5] - Investment balances decreased by $31 million, with the yield on the investment portfolio dropping to 3.26% from 3.35% in the previous quarter [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The commercial lending group closed $254 million in new loan commitments, down from $317 million in the previous quarter [15] - The commercial loan pipeline ended the fourth quarter at $468 million, down from $511 million in the previous quarter [15] - Average interest rates for new commercial loans were 6.56%, down 11 basis points from the previous quarter [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to close the merger with Olympic Bancorp at the end of January, which is expected to enhance profitability and position the company for growth in the Puget Sound market [4] - The focus remains on integrating Olympic and ensuring successful operations while exploring future M&A opportunities [73] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating future challenges and capitalizing on growth opportunities, with expectations for loan growth to return to historical levels in 2026 [16][18] - The company anticipates continued improvement in net interest margins and deposit costs due to recent rate cuts [22] Other Important Information - The company reported a reversal of provision for credit losses of $18,000 in Q4, attributed to a change in the loan portfolio mix [8] - Non-accrual loans totaled $21 million at year-end, representing 0.44% of total loans, an increase from 0.37% at the end of the previous quarter [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for adjustable rate opportunity and margin - Management indicated that despite recent rate cuts, loan yields slightly grew, and they expect further improvement in margins without the merger [21][22] Question: Loan growth expectations and industry focus - Management expects loan growth to return to low single digits in Q1 and upper single digits as the year progresses, with visibility improving in the loan pipeline [25][31] Question: Operating expense growth and merger-related expenses - Management anticipates approximately $20 million-$21 million in merger-related expenses, with a projected run rate for Q2 and Q3 around $56 million [33][34] Question: Capital priorities post-merger - The primary focus is on closing the merger, which will utilize about 100 basis points of capital, with potential for buybacks considered after the deal closes [51][52] Question: Competition in loan yields and deposit costs - Management noted that competition remains strong but consistent, with expectations for deposit costs to continue decreasing [44][48]