Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loan balances decreased by $37 million in Q1 due to elevated payoffs and prepayments, with loan yields at 5.45%, down 2 basis points from the previous quarter [4][5] - Total deposits increased by $160.7 million, primarily in non-maturity deposits, with a significant growth in money market accounts [5][6] - Net interest margin increased to 3.44% from 3.36% in the prior quarter, driven by decreases in the cost of deposits and borrowings [8][9] - Regulatory capital ratios remain above well-capitalized thresholds, with the TCE ratio rising to 9.3% from 9% in the prior quarter [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial lending closed $183 million in new loan commitments, down from $316 million in the previous quarter, with a commercial loan pipeline of $460 million [17][18] - The average interest rate for new commercial loans was 6.83%, up 20 basis points from the previous quarter [19][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The cost of interest-bearing deposits decreased to 1.92% from 1.98% in the prior quarter, with expectations for further decreases due to repricing of CDs [6][9] - Non-performing loans improved to 0.09% of total loans, down from 0.11% at year-end [12][13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to leverage its solid balance sheet and strong capital position to navigate economic uncertainties and pursue growth opportunities [20] - There is a focus on maintaining a balanced loan mix, particularly between commercial and industrial (C&I) loans and real estate [49] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about core profitability due to strong deposit growth and prudent risk management, projecting continued benefits through 2025 [3][20] - The company is closely monitoring emerging economic risks, including tariffs and federal funding changes, which could impact credit quality [15][55] Other Important Information - A pretax loss of $3.9 million was recognized on the sale of $61 million of securities as part of a strategic repositioning of the balance sheet [7] - The company has 990,000 shares available for repurchase under the current plan, with potential future buybacks depending on market conditions [10][33] Q&A Session Summary Question: Perspective on Heritage's position among independent banks in the Northwest - Management believes the bank is well-positioned with specific goals for 2025 and is ready for potential M&A opportunities [25][26] Question: Details on the new team in Spokane - The team was acquired from a larger regional bank, and the decision was based on a thorough assessment of fit and market opportunity [29][30] Question: Comments on stock buyback activity - The decision on buybacks is made quarterly, with no repurchases in Q1 due to stock price increases, but future activity may resume depending on conditions [32][33] Question: Spot cost on total deposits and NIM in March - The NIM in March was 3.45%, with the cost of interest-bearing deposits at 1.92% [37][41] Question: Opportunities for further growth in loan commitments - Management expects a balanced mix of C&I and real estate loans, with a strong focus on deposit growth [49][50] Question: Anticipated loan growth and appetite for credit - The company projects an annualized growth rate of 5% to 8% for Q2, with a strong pipeline but acknowledges uncertainty in the market [58][62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for Q1 2025 was $17.8 million, or 65¢ per diluted share, with a return on average assets of 0.96% and return on average equity of 13.04% [19][20] - The efficiency ratio improved to 61.2%, the best since Q4 2022 [20] - Net interest income increased by $1.9 million or 3.5% from the prior quarter to $57.7 million, with net interest margin (NIM) at 3.31%, up 14 basis points sequentially [20][21] - Total deposits declined by $48 million from the prior quarter, but average balances increased by $14 million [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan portfolio increased by $1.7 billion sequentially, marking the first quarterly increase in two years, driven by commercial mortgage and construction lending [16] - Total other operating income was $11.1 million, while total other operating expense was $42.1 million in Q1 [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Hawaii construction industry saw a 20.3% increase in total construction value for the first ten months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, forecasted to exceed $14 billion [10] - Hawaii's unemployment rate remained low at 2.9% in March, outperforming the national rate of 4.2% [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to grow market share in Hawaii while exploring targeted lending opportunities in Mainland markets [15] - A focus on optimizing the balance sheet and executing strategies to navigate market uncertainties is emphasized [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding loan growth, particularly in commercial areas, despite market volatility [38] - The company is prepared to navigate potential economic challenges and is monitoring the impacts of current administration policies [13][11] Other Important Information - The company plans to consolidate office space, anticipating a one-time pretax write-off of $2 to $2.5 million, with expected annual savings of approximately $1 million [23] - A quarterly cash dividend of 27¢ per share was declared, payable on June 16 [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook amidst market volatility - Management remains cautiously optimistic about loan growth, reiterating guidance of low to mid-single-digit growth for the year, primarily in commercial areas [38][39] Question: Impact of trade wars on clients - Approximately 10% of the loan book may be impacted, particularly in accommodation, restaurant, wholesale, and retail sectors, but clients are expected to manage short-term turbulence [42][43] Question: Deposit performance and competitive landscape - The company is pleased with deposit performance, with a favorable mix shift towards core deposits, and expects funding costs to trend down gradually [48] Question: Margin expectations for March - The margin for March was reported at 3.37%, with expectations for continued expansion driven by lower funding costs and favorable mix shifts [54][56] Question: Capital priorities and stock repurchases - The capital position is strong, with plans for organic growth, share repurchases, and maintaining a quarterly cash dividend [68][69]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for Q1 2025 was $17.8 million, or $0.65 per diluted share, with a return on average assets of 0.96% and return on average equity of 13.04% [15][16] - Net interest income increased by $1.9 million, or 3.5%, from the prior quarter to $57.7 million, with a net interest margin of 3.31%, up 14 basis points sequentially [16][18] - The efficiency ratio improved to 61.2, the best since Q4 2022 [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan portfolio increased by $1.7 million sequentially, marking the first quarterly increase in two years, driven by commercial mortgage and construction lending [13] - Total deposits declined by $48 million from the prior quarter, but average balances increased by $14 million, with a notable rise in average non-time deposits [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Hawaii construction industry saw a 20.3% increase in total construction value for the first ten months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, forecasted to exceed $14 billion [9] - The statewide unemployment rate in Hawaii remained low at 2.9%, outperforming the national rate of 4.2% [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to grow market share in Hawaii while targeting lending opportunities in Mainland markets, focusing on small businesses [12][13] - Management is optimistic about net loan growth continuing to pick up, particularly in commercial areas [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating economic uncertainties and maintaining strong results despite external factors [7][11] - The company is prepared to address potential impacts from current administration policies and market volatility [11] Other Important Information - The company plans to consolidate office space, expecting to recognize a one-time pretax write-off of $2 million to $2.5 million, with anticipated annual savings of approximately $1 million [18] - A quarterly cash dividend of $0.27 per share was declared, payable on June 16 [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook amidst market volatility - Management remains cautiously optimistic about loan growth, reiterating guidance for low to mid-single digit growth for the full year, primarily in commercial areas [28][30] Question: Impact of trade wars and tariffs on clients - Approximately 10% of the loan book may be impacted, particularly in accommodation, restaurant, and retail sectors, but management believes clients can handle short-term turbulence [32][34] Question: Deposit performance and competitive landscape - The company is pleased with deposit performance, with a favorable mix shift towards core deposits, and expects funding costs to trend down gradually [38][40] Question: Margin expectations for March - The margin for March was reported at 3.37%, with expectations for continued expansion driven by lower funding costs and favorable asset repricing [44][46] Question: Capital priorities and share repurchases - The company maintains a strong capital position, focusing on organic growth, share repurchases, and a quarterly cash dividend with a 40% payout ratio [53][54]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net operating profit of $29 million, or $0.54 per share, with pre-tax, pre-provision earnings at $43.4 million, or 1.41% [7] - Total loans decreased by $125 million, or 5% annualized, with average balances down $135 million compared to Q4 [8] - The tangible book value per share increased to $22.33, up from $21.61 at year-end, representing a 13.8% year-over-year increase [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gross loan production for Q1 was $750 million, with only 31% funded, while production over the last four quarters exceeded $2.8 billion, a 130% increase year-over-year [9][10] - Operating non-interest income increased by 2.4% to $14.8 million on a linked quarter basis, with fee income as a percentage of total revenue rising to 13.4% in Q1 2025 from 12.3% in Q1 2024 [37] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan-to-deposit ratio improved from 104% to 89% over the last two years, with a target to remain below 90% going forward [27] - Wholesale funding reliance decreased to 13.7%, down from over 24% in the same period last year [28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to achieve a return on average assets (ROAA) exceeding 1% in the latter half of the year, focusing on disciplined loan growth despite current challenges [8] - The bank has increased its quarterly dividend by 10% to $0.22 per share, indicating confidence in its growth outlook and capital generation [19][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about future loan growth, anticipating flat loan totals for the year but expecting significant growth in 2026 due to a strong pipeline [55][56] - The company is committed to managing its balance sheet and capital effectively amidst economic uncertainties, focusing on shareholder value [40] Other Important Information - Non-performing assets increased from $79 million at year-end to $97 million, primarily due to two loans in retail and office sectors [13] - The company repurchased 377,000 shares during the quarter, with $37 million remaining on the authorization for further buybacks [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on deposit growth and DDA stickiness - Management noted that deposit growth was influenced by seasonality and new customer attrition, with DDA showing some outflows during Q4 [46] Question: Future expense outlook - Management indicated that expenses are expected to rise slightly due to investments in new hires, but overall attention to expenses remains high [50][52] Question: Loan growth expectations - Management anticipates flat loan growth for the year, with a strong pipeline suggesting growth in 2026 [55][56] Question: Outlook on government guaranteed business - Management remains bullish on the government guaranteed business, particularly in the SBA space, with a strong pipeline expected to ramp up [90][91] Question: Trends in credit quality - Management confirmed that strategies are in place to address non-accrual loans, with confidence in resolving these issues by early third quarter [136]

Trustmark Corporation (NASDAQ:TRMK) Q1 2025 Results Conference Call April 23, 2025 9:30 AM ET Company Participants Joey Rein - Director of Corporate Strategy Duane Dewey - President & Chief Executive Officer Tom Owens - Chief Financial Officer Barry Harvey - Chief Credit & Operations Officer Tom Chambers - Chief Accounting Officer Conference Call Participants Will Jones - KBW Tim Mitchell - Raymond James Christopher Marinac - Janney Montgomery Scott Operator Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome t ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company recorded net income of $9.4 million or $0.37 per diluted share, with a return on average assets (ROA) of 1% for Q1 2025 [12] - Excluding the OREO write down, EPS would have been $0.40 per share or an ROA of 1.07% [12] - Net interest margin increased to 3.65% from 3.54% in the previous quarter, supported by a decline in interest-bearing deposit costs [14] - Nonperforming assets to total assets declined to 0.42% from 0.46% at the end of Q4 2024 [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was strong at $92 million, representing a 12% annualized growth rate, with significant contributions from asset-based lending, private equity, and small business lending [8][25] - The asset-based lending portfolio increased to just over $90 million, while the private equity fund banking portfolio grew to $128 million [10] - Small business lending, including Business Express and SBA loans, reached $91 million [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits increased by $64 million or 8% from the previous quarter, with noninterest-bearing deposits growing significantly [21] - The noninterest-bearing demand deposits ratio rose to 17.2%, up from 15.8% a year ago [21] - Time deposits increased by $47 million, supported by brokered funding [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on deposit generation and maintaining profitable relationships in a competitive environment [20] - Plans for branch expansion include opening new branches in New Jersey and relocating a Florida branch [22] - The company is investing in technology, including the rollout of a Salesforce CRM tool to enhance customer relationship management [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding loan demand, anticipating continued activity in construction and refinancing despite potential economic slowdowns [41][42] - The company is focused on maintaining a strong credit profile and managing risks associated with new lending units [88] - Management believes the current allowance for credit losses is adequate, with a strong coverage ratio relative to peers [51] Other Important Information - The efficiency ratio remained strong at 57.65%, below 60% for 23 consecutive quarters [18] - The company continued its buyback program and maintained a stable cash dividend [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth in the quarter and future lending environment - Management noted that much of the loan activity is tied to ongoing projects, with expectations for continued demand in the near term [41][42] Question: Buyback activity and future plans - Management indicated that buyback activity is on the radar, especially while the stock trades at lower levels [47][48] Question: Credit reserves and economic outlook - Management feels comfortable with the current allowance for credit losses, indicating a strong coverage ratio [50][51] Question: OREO write down details - The write down was related to an acquired loan in New York City, with management taking a conservative approach to ensure full coverage [56][57] Question: NIM and funding costs - Management discussed expectations for stable net interest margin, with some headwinds and tailwinds offsetting each other [66] Question: Growth targets for C&I lending - Management provided growth targets for asset-based lending and private equity, indicating potential for significant increases in the coming years [74][75]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record revenue for the first quarter of 2025, with end-of-period loans growing 1% quarter-over-quarter to a new record level of $54 billion [6][7] - Net interest income increased to $600 million, up $12 million from Q4, and net interest margin rose by 11 basis points to 3.35% [20][21] - The return on tangible common equity was nearly 16%, and the return on average assets was 1.6% [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fee income grew by 8%, driven by strong customer activity across various categories [8][21] - Residential mortgage origination remained steady, with a strong pipeline for Q2, while commercial real estate balances also grew [16] - The efficiency ratio for Q1 was 36.4%, indicating industry-leading efficiency [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The non-performing assets ratio decreased by two basis points to 24 basis points at quarter-end [9][25] - The criticized loans ratio increased to 2.3%, with classified loans rising to 1.38% [25][28] - The allowance for loan losses increased to 1.35% of total loans, reflecting a proactive approach to credit risk management [26][28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to capitalize on opportunities arising from economic uncertainties while maintaining a strong capital position [13][28] - There is a focus on diversifying revenue streams and enhancing fee income through customer engagement and service expansion [7][21] - The management emphasized the importance of a strong balance sheet to support customers and navigate economic challenges [13][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that clients are adapting to economic uncertainties and diversifying supply chains, which positions the company favorably [11][12] - The company remains vigilant regarding credit risk and is prepared for potential economic downturns [26][60] - Future loan growth will depend on economic conditions, with a cautious approach to lending in uncertain times [62][66] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately 920,000 shares for $85 million and distributed $85 million to shareholders via dividends [29][30] - The effective tax rate for 2025 is expected to be below 23% [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Why is the NII guide not moving higher? - The guidance remains appropriate due to anticipated rate cuts and current economic outlook [35] Question: Can the deposit beta be sustained? - The positive momentum may slow as the forward curve flattens, but the company expects to remain above the 50% guide [37] Question: What is the outlook for capital return and buybacks? - The company will continue to be opportunistic with buybacks while maintaining a strong position to support customers [45][46] Question: Are current tariff risks larger than in previous years? - Clients are better prepared now compared to 2017, and the company is actively engaging with clients to manage risks [50][52] Question: How does the company view loan growth opportunities? - The company has the capital and balance sheet to support clients, but loan growth will depend on economic conditions [60][62] Question: What is the strategy for growing fee income? - The company focuses on domestic lending fees and wealth management, with some fees tied to cross-border activity [71] Question: Can you elaborate on the allowance build rationale? - The allowance increase was driven by a higher weighting for downside scenarios due to economic uncertainties [74] Question: What are the expectations for expenses in the coming quarters? - The company remains comfortable with its expense guidance while continuing to invest in technology and infrastructure [80] Question: What is the strategy for security purchases in liquidity management? - The focus is on purchasing high-quality liquid assets, primarily Ginnie Mae securities [120]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported quarterly net income of $189 million and record net interest income of $526 million, despite having two fewer business days compared to the prior period [6][36] - Loans grew by over $650 million and deposits increased by over $1.1 billion, with a net interest margin of 3.56%, which is five basis points higher than the previous quarter [7][11] - Charge-offs for the quarter decreased to 11 basis points, and the provision for credit losses was $24 million, consistent with prior quarters [8][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was 6% on an annualized basis, while deposit growth was approximately 8% on an annualized basis [11] - Non-interest income was relatively stable, totaling $116.6 million, with increases in net security gains and fees from covered call options offset by lower wealth management revenue [17] - Non-interest expenses totaled $366.1 million, down approximately $2.4 million from the prior quarter, primarily due to lower salary and employee benefit expenses [18][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-interest bearing deposits represented 21% of total deposits at the end of the quarter, remaining stable over the last five quarters [12] - The company anticipates strong loan growth in the second quarter, particularly in the premium finance segment, which is expected to grow close to $1 billion [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company announced an increase in its dividend to $2 per share on an annualized basis and continues to grow its capital ratio, with a CET1 ratio of slightly over 10% [36] - The management emphasized the importance of differentiated client service and maintaining a strong local presence to navigate economic uncertainties [40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while there is uncertainty in the market, clients remain generally encouraged about the local economy and their ability to perform normally [45] - The company is focused on proactive communication with clients to address concerns related to economic conditions, tariffs, and funding cuts [34][46] Other Important Information - The company received 14 Coalition Greenwich Awards and was recognized for best customer service in Illinois for the fourth consecutive year [36] - The tangible book value per common share increased to $78.83 compared to $75.39 in the prior quarter [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: How prevalent is uncertainty from borrowers and its impact on growth outlook? - Management acknowledged that borrowers are cautious but remain generally encouraged about the local economy, maintaining their loan growth expectations [45][46] Question: Can you walk us through the thought process on reserve changes? - The management explained that while the baseline economic scenario improved, they implemented a qualitative overlay due to spikes in credit spreads and equity market factors at the end of the quarter [52][69] Question: Any changes in competitive pricing on new home production? - Management noted that competition remains rational, with slight declines in rates from competitors, but they expect to balance this with strong loan growth [58][60] Question: How is new client acquisition in wealth management going? - The company is transitioning to a new platform that is expected to improve capabilities for financial advisors, which should enhance growth in the wealth management business [72][73] Question: Thoughts on M&A and growth through acquisition? - Management indicated ongoing M&A conversations and expressed confidence in their ability to pursue attractive acquisition opportunities [76] Question: How should we think about the source of deposit growth going forward? - Management expects to continue growing deposits to match loan growth, with a stable mix of commercial and consumer relationships [82][84]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The diluted earnings per share for the first quarter were 68 cents, with annualized loan growth exceeding 4% compared to the linked quarter [6][7] - Asset quality metrics improved, including a reduction in the annualized net charge-off rate to 52 basis points from 61 basis points in the previous quarter [9][10] - Deposit balances grew by 2%, driven by higher money market and governmental deposit account balances, while core deposit growth exceeded 3% [7][19] - The book value per share increased by 2% to $31.9, and tangible book value per share improved by 4% to $20.68 [7][21] - The net interest income reported was down 1% compared to the linked quarter, with a net interest margin decrease of three basis points [8][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial real estate loans contributed $75 million to loan growth, while residential real estate loans increased by $13 million and consumer indirect loans grew by $10 million [13][14] - The small ticket leasing portfolio experienced net charge-offs, which were a significant driver of the overall charge-off rate [9][40] - Fee-based income grew over 2%, primarily due to performance-based insurance commissions [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The overall allowance for credit losses increased to 1.01% of total loans, with a provision for credit losses rising nearly $4 million compared to the linked quarter [11][12] - The company noted that despite national declines in consumer confidence, there was no material impact on consumer demand in their lines of business [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company announced an increase in its quarterly dividend for the tenth consecutive year, reflecting a commitment to shareholder returns [8][21] - Management emphasized a focus on maintaining high standards for associates and a commitment to community service, which they believe drives solid results and shareholder value [24][25] - The company is actively engaged in evaluating acquisition opportunities but is committed to a strategic patience approach, preferring to find the right partner rather than rushing into a deal [68][112] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism regarding loan growth despite macroeconomic uncertainties, citing strong visibility into the second quarter pipeline [35][36] - The company anticipates a normalization of the provision for credit losses in the second half of 2025, aligning with historical rates [27][94] - Management noted that they are prepared to adjust operating expenses based on revenue scenarios, maintaining flexibility in their expense management [99] Other Important Information - The efficiency ratio increased to 60.7% from 59.6% in the linked quarter, driven by higher costs and lower accretion income [18] - The investment portfolio declined by $40 million, representing 20.3% of total assets, as proceeds were reinvested into loan growth [18][19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook and risks - Management indicated strong visibility into the second quarter pipeline and expressed optimism despite potential impacts from tariffs [35][36] Question: North Star leasing and charge-offs - Management expects charge-offs to continue declining throughout the year, with a focus on improving credit quality [40][41] Question: Fee income guidance reduction - The reduction was attributed to softer performance in insurance income and changes in mortgage-related income expectations [50][51] Question: Consumer behavior in response to tariffs - Management noted an increase in indirect lending and consumer deposits, indicating a shift in consumer behavior towards securing loans before potential price increases [64][65] Question: Acquisition strategy and market expansion - Management expressed a desire to expand in existing markets and evaluate opportunities in adjacent regions, emphasizing a strategic approach to acquisitions [68][112]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $11.3 million, or 67 cents per diluted share, for the first quarter of 2025 [10] - Tangible book value increased to $23.61 per share, representing over 9% annualized growth quarter over quarter [10] - Total revenue reached $46.8 million, with net interest income expanding as anticipated [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was at a 9% annualized pace for Q1, meeting expectations, while deposit growth was at 10% quarter over quarter annualized [11] - Noninterest income for the quarter totaled $8.6 million, exceeding guidance, driven by strong insurance and mortgage banking revenues [20] - Operating expenses remained stable at just over $32 million, consistent with the previous quarter [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average portfolio yield, including fees, was 5.97%, slightly down from the previous quarter [15] - The loan to deposit ratio held steady at 83%, providing flexibility for future growth [15][17] - The company anticipates a net interest margin of around 3.25% for Q2 2025, with expectations of margin expansion of 2 to 3 basis points quarterly throughout the year [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on leveraging its growth phase, aiming for continued EPS growth and achieving near-term revenue targets [24] - There is an emphasis on recruiting talented team members to enhance revenue-generating capabilities, particularly in private banking and treasury management [26] - The company remains committed to organic growth while being open to potential M&A opportunities if they align with strategic goals [125][126] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's growth prospects despite market volatility, citing strong client relationships and business performance [34][35] - The company is closely monitoring the impact of tariffs on clients but has received positive feedback regarding order volumes and pricing stability [37][38] - Management believes that credit quality remains strong, with nonperforming assets at 0.19% of total assets [20] Other Important Information - The effective corporate tax rate for the quarter was approximately 17%, with expectations of stabilization between 18% to 19% going forward [21] - The company's consolidated TCE ratio increased to 7.6%, and total risk-based capital ratio remained well above regulatory standards at 11.2% [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Customer sentiment and loan growth outlook - Management noted strong market conditions and positive client feedback, indicating confidence in maintaining loan growth [34][35] Question: Balance sheet leverage and loan to deposit ratio - The company has room to increase its loan to deposit ratio while ensuring prudent growth and maintaining appropriate credit structures [42][43] Question: Share repurchase plans - The company has approximately $1.5 million left for share repurchases and will consider buying back shares as valuations improve [49][50] Question: Margin expectations with potential Fed rate cuts - Management indicated that they are well-positioned to benefit from Fed rate cuts, with potential upside to margin expansion if cuts occur earlier than expected [58][60] Question: Fee income outlook and performance of investment services - The company expects fee income in the low to mid $8 million range for Q2, with strong performance in insurance and mortgage banking contributing to growth [96][100] Question: Equipment financing and leasing business line - Management expressed satisfaction with the growth of the equipment financing segment, indicating plans for continued expansion in this area [131][132]