Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for Q1 2025 was $25 million or $0.81 per diluted share, while core net income was $27.1 million or $0.88 per diluted share, reflecting the sustainability of earnings [24][25] - Core earnings per share was $0.88, supported by net interest income of $70.6 million, which was within the guidance range [12][24] - The tangible book value per share increased by 4% to $23.51, while core revenue per diluted share decreased by $0.10 to $2.57 [26] - The CET1 ratio improved by 43 basis points to 14.32%, indicating a strong capital position [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans receivable increased by $7 million to $4.6 billion, driven by increases in multifamily and commercial industrial loans [38] - Political deposits grew by $103 million or 11% to $1.1 billion, consistent with historical patterns post-election [15][32] - Core non-interest income decreased to $9.1 million from $9.5 million, primarily due to lower commercial banking fees [42] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits increased by $446 million to $7.6 billion, with on-balance sheet deposits rising by 3.2% [31][32] - Non-interest-bearing deposits decreased to 39% of average ending deposits, while average cost of deposits increased by seven basis points to 159 basis points [33] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to maintain a conservative approach amid uncertain economic conditions, focusing on strong capital and liquidity [17][18] - A new $40 million share repurchase program was authorized, indicating a commitment to returning capital to shareholders [30][68] - The company is expanding its commercial PACE franchise, expecting C-PACE originations to ramp up to $15 to $20 million per quarter in the latter half of the year [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in revenue growth and margin expansion for the remainder of the year, despite modest declines in core earnings and revenue [13][14] - The company anticipates C&I loan growth to remain muted in Q2, with reacceleration expected in the latter half of the year [18] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong credit profile and higher liquidity levels due to potential impacts from federal funding reductions [17][18] Other Important Information - The company is planning a move to a new headquarters in New York City by mid-2026, aimed at attracting and retaining top talent [21][22] - Nonperforming assets totaled $33.9 million, representing an increase driven by commercial industrial nonaccrual loans [46] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on the $8.3 million loan that went on nonaccrual - Management indicated that the loan is in the solar sector and has sufficient collateral value, allowing them to maintain reserve coverage [54][56] Question: Impact of funding for clean energy projects - Management confirmed that there is no observed decline in funding for clean energy projects, with a strong pipeline continuing [58][60] Question: Concerns about political challenges affecting the bank - Management emphasized their focus on core business growth and maintaining strong capital and liquidity to navigate potential challenges [64][66] Question: Update on the political deposit franchise outlook - Management reported strong deposit performance with 11% growth in political deposits, consistent with historical trends [77][78] Question: Utilization of off-balance sheet strategies - Management explained that off-balance sheet strategies will be used as appropriate to manage balance sheet growth and maintain net interest income [84][86] Question: Expectations for expenses and digital transformation projects - Management confirmed that expenses are expected to ramp up throughout the year, with a focus on digital transformation and hiring plans [91][92] Question: Tangible impacts from the new administration - Management stated that they have not seen tangible impacts on lending or deposits but are closely monitoring potential risks [96][99]

South Plains Financial (SPFI) Q1 2025 Earnings Call April 24, 2025 05:00 PM ET Company Participants Steven Crockett - CFO & TreasurerCurtis Griffith - Chairman & CEOCory Newsom - Director and PresidentWoody Lay - Vice PresidentBrent Bates - CCOJoseph Yanchunis - Senior Equity Research Associate Operator Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the South Plains Financial First Quarter twenty twenty five Earnings Conference Call. During today's presentation, all parties will be in a listen only mo ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loan balances decreased by $37 million in Q1 2025 due to elevated payoffs and prepayments, with loan yields at 5.45%, down 2 basis points from Q4 2024 [7][12] - Total deposits increased by $160.7 million in the quarter, with 95% of this growth in non-mature deposits, primarily in money market accounts [9][27] - Net interest margin increased to 3.44% for Q1 from 3.36% in the prior quarter, driven by decreases in the cost of deposits and borrowings [12] - Non-interest expense increased by $1.8 million from the prior quarter, primarily due to higher benefit costs and payroll taxes [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial lending closed $183 million in new loan commitments, down from $316 million in the previous quarter but up from $133 million in Q1 2024 [24] - The commercial loan pipeline ended Q1 at $460 million, up from $452 million in the previous quarter [25] - Investment balances decreased by $53.8 million, partly due to a pretax loss of $3.9 million on the sale of $61 million of securities [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The cost of interest-bearing deposits decreased to 1.92% in Q1 from 1.98% in the prior quarter, with expectations for further decreases due to repricing of CDs [10] - Non-performing loans improved from 0.11% of total loans at year-end to 0.09% [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue taking advantage of opportunities for growth and potential M&A, with a solid balance sheet and a strong loan pipeline [34][36] - The focus remains on prudent risk management and maintaining a strong capital position to navigate economic uncertainties [29][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about core profitability due to strong deposit growth and prudent risk management [5] - The company anticipates an annualized loan growth rate of 5% to 8% for Q2 2025, despite uncertainties in the market [77][82] Other Important Information - The company has 990,000 shares available for repurchase under the current plan, although no shares were repurchased in Q1 [15] - Credit quality metrics remained stable, with non-accrual loans totaling just over $4.4 million, representing 0.09% of total loans [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Perspective on Heritage's position among independent banks - Management believes the bank is well-positioned with specific goals for 2025 and readiness for potential M&A opportunities [34][36] Question: Details on the new team in Spokane - The new team was sourced from a larger regional bank, and the decision was based on fit and market opportunity [38][40] Question: Comments on stock buyback activity - The decision on stock buybacks is made quarterly, with no repurchases in Q1 due to stock price considerations [43] Question: Margin and deposit costs - The NIM in March was 3.45%, with the cost of interest-bearing deposits at 1.92% [48] Question: Loan growth opportunities - The company sees balanced opportunities in commercial real estate and C&I, with a focus on deposit-rich clients [62] Question: Credit metrics and underwriting approach - Management is closely monitoring economic changes and adapting their credit management strategies accordingly [72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP fully diluted earnings per share of $0.87, which represents a 135% increase compared to the fourth quarter and an 81% increase year-over-year [6] - Pre-provision net revenue for the first quarter was $9.4 million, or $1.22 per share, an 11% increase from the previous quarter [12] - The net interest margin for the quarter was 281 basis points, a 21 basis point increase from the linked quarter [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - SBA originations grew to $10 million in the first quarter, with gain on sale margins exceeding 10% [9] - Noninterest income increased by 56% to $1.5 million, driven largely by SBA gain on sale income [16] - The first quarter provision expense was $463,000, significantly lower than $4.5 million in the prior quarter [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core deposits grew by $43 million, including $28 million in noninterest-bearing deposits, while broker deposits declined by $81 million [10] - The company expects low single-digit loan growth for the full year despite a slower first quarter [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company successfully disposed of two nonperforming credits, which reduced nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets to 83 basis points [7] - The management emphasized the importance of attracting talented professionals and has added two deposit teams in the New York Metro Area [20] - The company plans to continue expanding its net interest margin and reaffirmed its net interest income guidance for the full year 2025 of $93 million to $95 million [16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the SBA gain on sale activity accelerating in Q2 2025 [9] - The management noted that credit trends were benign and highlighted the company's strong balance sheet and liquidity [19] - The company is cautious about potential changes in the SBA environment that could impact growth [52][54] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 29,924 shares at a weighted average price of $30.46 during the quarter, with 220,000 shares remaining on its authorization [19] - The efficiency ratio for the quarter was 59.9%, with expectations for improvement as net interest margin expands [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on new teams and their focus - The focus of the new teams is primarily on deposits, with some loans mixed in, and both teams have prior books over $100 million [26] Question: Update on loan pipeline and growth outlook - The company still expects low single-digit growth, with a robust pipeline despite some unexpected payoffs in Q1 [30][31] Question: Core loan yield for the quarter - The core loan yield for the quarter was approximately 6.40%, reflecting a 10 basis point expansion over the fourth quarter [38] Question: Thoughts on interest-bearing costs and margin - Timing issues affected the interest-bearing costs, with some callable brokered CDs called in Q1 leading to a one-time drag [41][42] Question: Expectations for SBA originations and fee income - Originations were better than expected, with the strongest quarter anticipated in Q4 2025 [50] Question: Share repurchase strategy - The company aims to balance share repurchases with the need to build consolidated CET1 capital, currently at 11% [72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $22.4 million for Q1 2025, translating to $0.77 per share, indicating a solid start despite economic uncertainties [4] - Net loan growth was $6.5 million, impacted by larger payoffs, while deposits decreased by $100.8 million primarily due to seasonal declines in public funds deposits [5] - The net interest margin (NIM) improved to 3.09% from 2.88% in Q4 2024, reflecting stabilization in non-interest-bearing deposits and disciplined loan pricing [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-interest income decreased by $3.2 million or 12.4% compared to Q1 2024, with contingent income in the insurance line decreasing by $700,000 [10] - Non-interest expense decreased by $746,000 or 1.5% compared to Q1 2024, demonstrating a focus on prudent expense management [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Credit quality remained strong, with non-performing assets to total assets increasing slightly by two basis points to 43 basis points, and net charge-offs remaining low at 10 basis points annualized [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to continue stock buybacks, having repurchased 221,760 shares during the quarter, indicating a commitment to returning capital to shareholders [7] - The management aims to navigate the loan-to-deposit ratio towards a target of 95% to 100%, acknowledging the cyclicality and seasonality of public funds [18][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating uncertainties related to interest rates and geopolitical concerns, emphasizing a solid first quarter performance [4][27] - The company maintains a guidance range for fee income growth of 4% to 6% for the year, contingent on mortgage banking performance [15] Other Important Information - The Board of Directors announced a $0.01 increase in the quarterly dividend to $0.22 per share, reflecting a commitment to returning value to shareholders [6] Q&A Session Summary Question: Fee income growth expectations - Management confirmed a guidance range of 4% to 6% for fee income growth, with mortgage banking performance being a potential driver [15] Question: Loan-to-deposit ratio trends - Management indicated a long-term target of 95% to 100% for the loan-to-deposit ratio, acknowledging the seasonal fluctuations in public funds [18][20] Question: Capital return and buyback potential - Management discussed the potential for buybacks, indicating that decisions will be made quarterly based on earnings projections and regulatory capital ratios [22]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP fully diluted earnings per share of $0.87, which represents a 135% increase compared to the fourth quarter and an 81% increase year-over-year [5] - Pre-provision net revenue for the first quarter was $9,400,000, or $1.22 per share, reflecting an 11% increase from the previous quarter [9] - The net interest margin for the quarter was 281 basis points, a 21 basis point increase from the linked quarter [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - SBA originations grew during the first quarter, with gain on sale margins exceeding 10% [6] - Non-interest income increased by 56% compared to the linked quarter, driven largely by $424,000 of SBA gain on sale income [11] - The efficiency ratio for the quarter was 59.9%, an increase over the prior quarter, but expected to improve as net interest margin expands [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced elevated payoff activity of $200,000,000, which offset strong origination activity of $130,000,000 funded during the first quarter [6] - Core deposits grew by $43,000,000, including $28,000,000 in non-interest bearing deposits [7] - Brokered deposits declined by $81,000,000 relative to the fourth quarter, with a total reduction of $207,000,000 over the last twelve months [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its SBA business and expects continued growth in SBA gain on sale activity throughout 2025 [6][11] - The addition of new deposit teams in the New York Metro Area is aimed at enhancing customer acquisition and deposit growth [14] - The company plans to selectively add professionals to achieve strategic goals, particularly in technology and banking [15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains optimistic about low single-digit loan growth for the full year despite a slower start [6][22] - The company anticipates continued margin expansion as maturing term deposits reprice to lower current rates [9][10] - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate changes in the SBA landscape while maintaining growth [37] Other Important Information - The company disposed of two nonperforming credits, which significantly reduced nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets to 83 basis points [5] - The balance sheet remains well-capitalized and liquid, with total assets of $3,200,000,000 [13] - The company repurchased 29,924 shares at a weighted average price of $30.46 during the quarter [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on new teams and their focus - The new teams are primarily focused on deposits, with both teams having books of business over $100,000,000 [19][20] Question: Loan pipeline and growth outlook - The company still expects low single-digit growth, with a robust pipeline despite some unexpected payoffs in the first quarter [22][23] Question: Core loan yield and margin expectations - The core loan yield for the quarter was approximately $6.40, with expectations for continued margin expansion [27][29] Question: SBA gain on sale and future expectations - Originations were better than expected, with the strongest quarter anticipated in Q4 [35] Question: Professional fees and expense outlook - Some professional fees are one-time investments that may shift into employee expenses, but elevated levels are not expected to continue [41] Question: Updates on remaining nonperforming assets - No material updates on the remaining loans, but management is optimistic about their status [45] Question: Share repurchase strategy - The company aims to balance share repurchases with the need to grow consolidated CET1 capital [52]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Trustmark reported net income of $53.6 million, representing fully diluted EPS of $0.88 per share, with a return on average assets of 1.19% and a return on average tangible equity of 13.13% [7][9] - Loans held for investment increased by $151 million or 1.2% linked quarter, with a stable deposit base and a cost of total deposits rising by 15 basis points to 1.83% [6][10] - Non-interest income totaled approximately $43 million, up 4% linked quarter, while non-interest expense declined by $419,000 linked quarter [7][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The growth in loans was diversified, reflecting increases in commercial real estate (CRE), other commercial loans, and one to four family mortgage loans [6][10] - Non-interest expense management efforts were highlighted, with declines in salaries, employee benefits, and service fees contributing to the overall reduction [8][41] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates low single-digit growth in loans held for investments and deposits for the full year 2025, while securities balances are expected to remain stable [10][11] - The net interest margin is projected to be in the range of 3.75% to 3.85% for the full year, with net interest income expected to increase mid to high single digits [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Trustmark is focused on organic loan growth, potential market expansion, and M&A opportunities depending on market conditions [11][45] - The company is monitoring the impact of tariffs and administrative policies on its customer base, indicating a cautious but optimistic outlook for growth [10][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted stable credit quality with net charge-offs totaling $1.4 million, representing four basis points of average loans [8] - The company is experiencing a solid pipeline across various business units, although some uncertainty in the market may lead to a slowdown in new origination volume [25][26] Other Important Information - The tangible book value per share increased to $27.78, up 4.1% during the quarter and 26.1% year over year [10] - The Board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.24 per share payable on June 15 to shareholders of record on June 1 [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth trends and client behavior regarding tariffs - Management discussed expectations for meaningful maturing CRE loans in 2025 and noted that many clients are considering extension options due to uncertainty in interest rates [19][20] Question: Impact of net interest margin and potential rate cuts - Management explained that a linked quarter decline in net interest margin was primarily due to seasonal declines in loan fees, and they expect low single-digit increases moving forward [27][30] Question: Credit quality and reserve build - Management confirmed that the increase in the allowance for credit losses was expected, driven by loan growth and qualitative adjustments [38][39] Question: Expense management and future investments - Management highlighted a focus on controlling expenses, with plans for a core system conversion in 2026 and a disciplined approach to managing costs [41][42] Question: Share repurchase program and capital deployment - Management indicated that the pace of share repurchases will be dictated by market conditions and loan growth, with a focus on strategic growth initiatives in key markets [44][45]

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 - Operating earnings were reported at 59 cents per share, with an operating return on assets of 1.04%, both showing solid improvements from the previous year [5] - Loans grew at an annualized pace of just over 5%, while deposits also grew at an annualized rate of 5% [6] - The net interest margin increased by 10 basis points over the fourth quarter, driven by lower deposit costs [6][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan portfolio saw a 7% annualized growth in Commercial and Industrial (CNI) loans, including owner-occupied Commercial Real Estate (CRE), and a 15% annualized growth in the Navitas book [15] - Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) loans experienced a 13% annualized growth [15] - Non-interest income on an operating basis decreased by $4.8 million from the previous quarter, but the run rate of fee income remained essentially flat [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposit growth was strong, with $309 million in deposit growth or 5.3% annualized, despite approximately $85 million in seasonal public funds outflow [12] - The cost of total deposits improved by 15 basis points during the quarter [13] - The loan-to-deposit ratio remained low at 78%, indicating balanced loan and deposit growth [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth as a priority for capital deployment, with share buybacks being considered more attractive than M&A at current stock prices [51][80] - The acquisition of American National Bank is set to close on May 1st, marking a significant step in the company's growth strategy [24] - The company aims to maintain a low single-digit growth in operating expenses, with expectations of modest growth in the second quarter [47] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating economic uncertainties, noting that consumer spending and employment in their markets remain strong [10] - There are no elevated concerns regarding the impact of tariffs at this time, as clients are adjusting quickly to maintain margins [10][34] - The company is cautious about potential risks in the small commercial segment, particularly with the Navitas portfolio [35] Other Important Information - The Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio increased to 13.3%, indicating a strong capital position [17] - The Total Capital Ratio (TCE) was up 21 basis points, remaining above peers [18] - The allowance for credit losses slightly increased to 1.21% of loans, with a loan loss provision of $15.4 million covering net charge-offs [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin expectations going forward - Management expects margins to increase by 5 to 10 basis points next quarter, driven by lower deposit costs and a shift in the mix between loans and securities [27] Question: Concerns regarding tariffs and borrower behavior - Management noted that impacts are client-specific and that borrowers are reacting quickly to adjust to tariff-related challenges [30][34] Question: Changes in borrower behavior and pipelines - Current pipelines for Q2 are similar to Q1, with no significant negative impacts observed [43] Question: SBA and fee income challenges - The company, as a preferred lender, has not faced significant challenges in getting SBA deals approved, and the first quarter was the largest for SBA in history [45] Question: Operating expenses outlook - Operating expenses are expected to remain in the low single-digit growth range, with some seasonal increases anticipated [47] Question: Capital deployment priorities - Organic growth remains the top priority, with share buybacks being more attractive than M&A at current valuations [51][80] Question: Credit quality and loan loss reserves - The company uses Moody's scenarios for credit loss reserves and balances economic forecasts with portfolio performance [60][66]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $17.2 million or $1.47 per diluted common share, up from $13.4 million or $1.13 per share in the same quarter a year ago, reflecting a strong performance driven by higher interest income and lower funding costs [6][16] - Net interest income totaled $49.3 million in Q1 2025, an increase of about 10% from $44.8 million in Q1 2024, with a net interest margin of 3.57%, up 25 basis points year-over-year [8][17] - Non-interest income decreased to $6.6 million, a decline of 3.2% compared to the first quarter last year [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan portfolio remained flat at $4.76 billion, up 2.2% from the end of Q1 2024, with multifamily loans at $1.59 billion and commercial real estate at $1.49 billion [9][10] - Construction lending totaled $475 million, with a healthy pipeline of unfunded balances [10] - Non-interest expenses were flat at $34.8 million year-over-year, despite investments in technology and personnel [14][21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits increased by 3.3% to $4.76 billion, driven by increases in interest-bearing checking balances and brokerage deposits [11][26] - Non-performing assets remained minimal at 0.16% of total assets, with non-performing loans at 0.07% [28][29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on executing its strategy, protecting margins, managing credit proactively, and investing in people and systems [15][24] - The board approved a new stock repurchase authorization of up to 1 million shares, indicating confidence in the company's capital position [33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while there is competition for loans, activity has decreased slightly, and they do not expect significant growth in the near term [47] - The company maintains a neutral interest rate risk posture and is prepared for potential rate cuts from the Fed [43][44] Other Important Information - The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans stood at 1.36%, consistent with the end of 2024 [30] - Total assets increased to $5.99 billion, up from $5.78 billion a year ago [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: How should the margin react without changes to Fed policy? - Management indicated that while there may be slight benefits from maturing CDs, substantial changes are not expected [38] Question: How will the balance sheet react if there are rate cuts from the Fed? - Management believes the overall interest rate risk posture is neutral, with a slight negative impact expected initially from a rate cut [43] Question: Can the company expect to remain active with buybacks given the current growth? - Management confirmed they expect to continue buybacks, depending on market conditions [54] Question: Is modest growth in expenses reasonable without any material planned expenditures? - Management stated that modest growth in expenses is a fair assumption, with no unusual expenditures anticipated [57]