Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Pinnacle reported fourth quarter adjusted EPS of $2.24, stable quarter over quarter and up 18% year over year [8] - Net interest income increased 3% from the third quarter and 12% year over year [8] - The net interest margin increased one basis point to 3.27% [8] - Synovus reported strong fourth quarter adjusted diluted EPS of $1.45, stable quarter over quarter and increased 16% year over year [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Pinnacle's period-end loans grew at a strong 3% from the prior quarter and 10% year over year [8] - Core deposit growth was healthy at 3% quarter over quarter and 10% year over year [8] - Synovus's period-end loan growth was $872 million, or 2% from the prior quarter and 5% from the previous year [10] - Synovus's core deposits grew $895 million, or up 2% quarter over quarter [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The merger between Pinnacle and Synovus was completed on January 1, 2026, demonstrating effective integration [6] - Both organizations have successfully completed key milestones over the past two quarters, reinforcing a solid foundation for continued growth [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Pinnacle aims to produce strong, above-peer revenue, earnings per share, and tangible book value growth [4] - The company plans to hire 250 total revenue producers in 2026, with expectations of loan growth to reach $91-$93 billion, up 9%-11% versus year-end 2025 [15] - The adjusted revenue outlook for 2026 is projected at $5-$5.2 billion [16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving loan growth targets despite competitive pressures and economic uncertainties [40] - The company anticipates a constructive credit environment with net charge-offs estimated to be in the range of 20-25 basis points for the year [18] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining high net promoter scores to ensure client satisfaction and service quality [30] Other Important Information - The company expects to realize 40% or $100 million of annualized merger-related expense savings in 2026 [18] - A $400 million common share repurchase program has been authorized to manage capital in multiple growth scenarios [19] - The quarterly common equity dividend will be $0.50 per share starting in the first quarter [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: What can the combined bank not do today that it will be able to do a year from now post-conversion? - The combined bank will move to an in-state platform that takes the best of both organizations, allowing for new capabilities and products [29] Question: When do you think you would actually initiate buybacks? - The company is likely to accrete capital for a time period and reassess buybacks later in the year, with no purchases expected in the first or second quarter [32] Question: Can you walk us through your degree of confidence in achieving loan growth targets? - The company generated 10% loan growth in the fourth quarter and expects growth from existing team members and recent hires [40] Question: What is embedded in the fee income guidance for the capital markets business? - The capital markets platforms are seen as a significant area of opportunity, with expectations of strong growth in capital markets fees in 2026 [46] Question: How do you plan to handle higher hold limits? - The company plans to increase hold limits slightly, allowing for larger loan sizes while continuing to manage risk through syndication [67]