Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $16.9 million for Q3 2025, an increase of 8.3% compared to Q2 2025, resulting in a return on assets (ROA) of 1.41% and a return on equity (ROE) of 15.1% [8][9] - Total assets surpassed $5 billion for the first time, with a compound annual growth rate of 19.3% since the IPO in November 2021 [6] - The efficiency ratio improved to 53.05% for Q3 2025, indicating better operational efficiency [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net interest income increased by $1.5 million, or 3%, primarily due to a better-than-expected net interest margin and growth in average earning assets of $229 million [9] - Average loans rose by $158 million compared to Q2 2025, while period-end loans increased by $85.4 million [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposits increased by $92 million for the quarter, resulting in a loan-to-deposit ratio of 95% [9] - The yield on the investment securities portfolio was 6.07% as of September 30, 2025, with total investment securities rising to $583 million [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company announced a definitive merger agreement with Keystone Bancshares, expected to close in Q1 2026, which will create a combined entity with total assets exceeding $6 billion [14] - The merger aims to enhance market presence and leverage shared commitment to relationship banking and customer service [14][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in meeting loan growth targets of $50 million to $100 million in Q4 2025, supported by strong loan pipelines [15] - The company remains disciplined in underwriting and portfolio management practices to ensure high-quality growth [15] Other Important Information - The company achieved new records in book value and tangible book value, reaching $32.25 and $30.91, respectively [6] - The successful completion of the bank's first and second securitization transactions received international recognition, winning the SCI Risk Sharing Award for North American Transaction of the Year [7] Q&A Session Summary Question: Integration process timeline for the Keystone merger - The integration is expected to be straightforward due to operational compatibility, with a core conversion planned for early Q2 2026 [19][20] Question: Loan growth expectations for Q4 - The company is comfortable with the $50 million to $100 million loan growth target, although year-end paydowns may affect final figures [21][22] Question: EPS accretion expectations from the merger - EPS accretion estimates are based on consensus, with expectations that the number may change following the current earnings report [29][30] Question: Near-term securitization strategy - A third securitization is being considered, likely in Q1 2026, but it will depend on customer demand [33] Question: Future M&A opportunities - The company is open to additional deals but will maintain a high bar for any future acquisitions, focusing on cultural fit and financial rewards [50][51] Question: Fee income growth and expectations - Fee income has shown strong momentum, with expectations for a slight step down in Q4 due to seasonal factors [42][44] Question: Hiring efforts to support loan growth - The company is selectively hiring top talent to support growth, focusing on high productivity and quality candidates [46][48] Question: Geographic expansion plans - The company aims to build around the Texas Triangle and is open to opportunities that enhance shareholder value [73][75]