Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - West Bancorporation reported a 16% earnings increase over the prior quarter and a 55% increase compared to the third quarter of the previous year [5] - Net income for the third quarter was $9.3 million, up from $8 million in the previous quarter and $6 million in the same quarter last year [17] - The net interest margin improved by nine basis points compared to the previous quarter, with loan yield increasing to 5.66% from 5.59% in the second quarter [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan outstandings were slightly up at just over $3 billion, with a $43 million increase in the third quarter [9][16] - Core deposit balances decreased by approximately $82 million in the third quarter, attributed to normal cash flow fluctuations [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Minnesota banking segment is experiencing a slowdown among manufacturing clients due to economic uncertainty, but there are new business opportunities arising from M&A activity in the region [11][12] - The company is focusing on deposit-rich business banking opportunities and has successfully attracted new deposits from high-earning individuals [12][14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains committed to maintaining strong credit quality and underwriting disciplines, with no significant problem loans reported [7][8] - There is a focus on organic growth and taking advantage of good loan opportunities, with no specific plans for capital deployment at this time [31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in maintaining a solid loan growth pace, despite being more selective in credit opportunities [23] - The company anticipates favorable conditions from future Fed rate cuts, which will help improve margins [5] Other Important Information - The Board declared a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share, payable on November 19, 2025 [6] - The effective tax rate for the quarter was around 19%, lower than previous quarters due to a change in estimate on an energy-related investment tax credit [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on loan growth pipeline and market share in Minnesota - Management indicated that the pipeline is good but not as robust as in the past due to selectivity in credit opportunities, expecting mid-single-digit growth going forward [22][23] Question: Funding growth outlook with deposit gathering - The objective is to fund growth through cash flows from the investment portfolio and deposit gathering, with potential short-term reliance on wholesale funding [24] Question: Margin tailwinds and deposit beta assumptions - There are still significant repricing opportunities in the loan portfolio, but deposit betas may not be as aggressive as in the past due to competitive pressures [25][27] Question: Medium-term assessment of Minnesota growth venture - Management expressed confidence that the Minnesota venture has exceeded expectations and is contributing positively to the bottom line [35]