Balance sheet repositioning
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Ready Capital (RC) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-11-07 14:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a GAAP loss from continuing operations of $0.13 per common share and distributable earnings were a loss of $0.94 per common share, with $0.04 per common share excluding realized losses on asset sales [13][16] - Net interest income declined to $10.5 million due to a $1.4 billion reduction in the CRE portfolio and $40 million of negative credit migration [13][14] - Book value per share was $10.28 at quarter end, down $0.16 from June 30, primarily due to the dividend covered shortfall [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The core portfolio totaled 1,120 loans with an unpaid principal balance of $5.4 billion, with delinquencies increasing to 5.9% of the total [5][6] - In small business lending operations, $175 million of SBA 7(a) loans were originated, which is 50% below the quarterly target [9][10] - The small business lending platform generated $11 million in net income, adding 280 basis points return on equity before realized losses [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Portland mixed-use asset represented 14% of quarter-end equity, with a net operating loss of $330,000 for the hotel and occupancy at 48% [7][8] - The office and retail space in the Portland asset is currently 28% leased and has reached break-even [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on returning to financial health and profitability through portfolio yield rehabilitation, growth in small business lending, and management of 2026 debt maturities [4] - The strategy includes reducing CRE loan exposure and liquidating non-core assets to improve liquidity [4][11] - The company plans to evaluate the dividend in December based on progress in the business plan and liquidity levels [12][28] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in refinancing pending debt maturities and emphasized a conservative approach to new investments and dividend policy [11][40] - The company expects to leverage unencumbered assets and additional debt issuance to address maturing obligations [11][28] Other Important Information - The company completed two portfolio sales, netting $85 million from the sale of 21 loans and $24 million from the sale of 196 small balance loans [4][5] - The net increase in provision for loan losses was $38 million, with a decrease in the valuation allowance of $178 million [15][16] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the right level of leverage for the company going forward? - Management indicated that current gross leverage is around $3.5 million, with a target of less than that on a pro forma basis [19][20] Question: What is the current covenant on the unencumbered asset ratio? - The company confirmed that the unencumbered asset test is well covered within the 1.2 range, with no requirement to be at 1.25 [23][25] Question: What is the rationale for continuing to pay dividends while managing debt maturities? - Management stated that they are adopting an aggressive approach to reposition the balance sheet and will evaluate the dividend in December based on liquidity and business progress [27][28] Question: How is the Portland property being carried on the balance sheet? - The property is carried at fair value for the condos and at cost for the other components [33][34] Question: How does the company view the current market valuations for properties? - Management noted that the Portland asset is unique and not directly comparable to other properties, emphasizing positive trends in hospitality and RevPAR [36][37]
Firstsun Capital Bancorp(FSUN) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-28 15:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The merger with First Foundation Inc. was announced, which is expected to significantly enhance the company's growth and risk profile [2][4] - The pro forma CET1 capital level after closing is projected at 10.5%, with no new capital required as part of the deal [18] - The company anticipates a significant improvement in net interest margin (NIM) from a recent run rate of 1.60% to nearly 4% by 2027 [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The merger will allow for a dramatic acceleration of the business plan, particularly in Southern California, enhancing the wealth management platform with over $5.3 billion in assets under management [15][16] - The repositioning plan includes downsizing $3.4 billion in total liabilities, focusing on reducing non-relationship rate-sensitive elements [16][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company will operate in eight of the top 10 largest metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) in the Central and Western regions of the U.S. and five of the top 10 fastest-growing markets [15] - The Southern California market is highlighted as having a better lower-cost mix of deposits compared to other regions [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to transform First Foundation's balance sheet to align more closely with its own, focusing on core funding and enhancing fee income [12][19] - The strategy includes leveraging existing teams in Southern California to drive organic growth and improve the overall business mix [60][61] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the merger's ability to reduce risk while enhancing growth opportunities in attractive markets [22] - The management team noted that the current economic environment presents unique opportunities due to disruptions faced by larger banks, particularly in the middle market [65] Other Important Information - The company expects to achieve a 35% cost savings post-merger, primarily through personnel reductions and professional services [80] - The company is focused on improving its credit risk profile and has a detailed plan to address liquidity, interest rate, and credit risks [17][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you walk us through the mechanics of the $3.4 billion repositioning plan? - The repositioning is expected to be completed around the closing date, with some activities already in progress [25][26] Question: What are the expectations for capital management long-term? - The company anticipates a significant amount of capital accretion, providing flexibility for future growth and M&A opportunities [32][33] Question: How do the EPS projections compare to street estimates? - Internal projections indicate a significant improvement in net interest income (NII) and expense reductions, leading to a positive outlook for EPS [40][42] Question: What gives confidence in the regulatory approval of the merger? - Extensive discussions with regulators have been held, and the company has taken lessons from past experiences to ensure a smoother process this time [46][47] Question: What are the sources of the expected cost savings? - Approximately 70% of the cost savings are expected to come from personnel reductions, with additional savings from professional services and back-office efficiencies [80][82]
Firstsun Capital Bancorp(FSUN) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-28 15:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The merger between FirstSun Capital and First Foundation is expected to enhance the profitability profile of the combined organization, with a projected return on assets (ROA) of approximately 145 basis points by 2027 [19] - The common equity tier 1 (CET1) capital level post-closing is projected at a strong 10.5%, with no new capital required as part of the deal [18] - The pro forma company is expected to have a regulatory commercial real estate (CRE) concentration ratio of approximately 238%, significantly improved from First Foundation's current levels [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The merger is anticipated to diversify the fee business mix significantly, particularly through the wealth management platform, which has over $5.3 billion in assets under management [14] - The repositioning plan includes a total downsizing of $3.4 billion, focusing on lowering non-relationship rate-sensitive elements on both sides of the balance sheet [16] - The combined organization aims to improve net interest margin (NIM) from a recent run rate of 1.60% to nearly 4% by 2027 [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The merger will expand FirstSun's geographic footprint into eight of the top 10 largest metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) in the Central and Western regions of the U.S. [14] - The Southern California market is highlighted as a significant growth opportunity, with expectations for accelerated hiring and growth in this region [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The merger is seen as a strategic move to tackle unloved companies in the industry, which tend to have lower projections and higher upside potential [5] - The company plans to migrate more of First Foundation's balance sheet to its business model, enhancing profitability through improved asset yields and fee income [12] - The focus will be on transforming the combined organization quickly, with a clear plan to reduce risk and improve the credit profile [13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to transform First Foundation's operations rapidly, leveraging existing teams in Southern California [9] - The management team emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong focus on organic growth opportunities while managing capital effectively [31] - There is an expectation of continued improvement in net interest income (NII) and fee income, particularly from the wealth management business [39] Other Important Information - The merger is not expected to be a quick process, as it involves significant due diligence and structuring to ensure success for both parties [4] - The company has a detailed plan in place to accomplish the downsizing actions concurrently with the closing of the deal [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you walk us through the mechanics of the $3.4 billion repositioning plan and its timing? - The repositioning is expected to be accomplished around the closing date, with some progress anticipated in Q4 and Q1 based on existing plans [25][26] Question: What are the sources of the expected 35% cost savings? - Approximately 70% of the cost savings are expected to come from personnel reductions, with additional savings from professional services and back-office opportunities [70][72] Question: How does the company plan to manage capital long-term? - The company expects to see CET1 leveling off beyond 2027, with future capital management strategies being employed to support organic growth and M&A opportunities [31][32] Question: What gives the company confidence regarding regulatory approval for the merger? - Extensive conversations with regulators have been held, and the company has taken lessons from past experiences to ensure a clear and structured approach to the merger [42] Question: Can you provide insights on the credit side and expectations for charge-offs going forward? - The company had a $10 million provision expense in Q3, with expectations for charge-offs to be in the low 40s in terms of basis points for 2025 [44][45]
Horizon Bancorp(HBNC) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-23 13:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Horizon Bancorp Inc. reported net interest margin expansion for the eighth consecutive quarter, with an exit run rate in September above 4% [5][16] - The net interest margin increased by 29 basis points to 3.52% for the quarter, with expectations to expand further in Q4 to a range of 4.15%-4.25% [19][26] - The allowance for credit losses decreased to $50.2 million, representing an allowance to credit loss to loans held for investment of 1.04% [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net loan total for investment decreased to $162 million, primarily due to a $210 million impact from the runoff and sale of indirect auto loans, while commercial loans grew by $58 million [9][10] - The combined relationship-based fee income categories of service charges, card, and mortgage income increased from the third quarter [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The core relationship balances in the deposit portfolio remained resilient, with planned outflows in higher-cost non-core transactional accounts [14] - The company anticipates a decline in deposit balances in Q4, primarily due to the targeted reduction of high-cost non-relationship balances [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on profitable loan growth and maintaining excellent credit quality as a cornerstone of its success [7] - Horizon Bancorp Inc. aims to create durable returns and sustainable long-term value for shareholders through disciplined capital management and potential M&A opportunities [30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in delivering superior community banking performance and capital generation metrics moving into 2026 [6][30] - The company is optimistic about growth opportunities in Michigan and Indiana, leveraging its strong brand reputation and community banking model [40][60] Other Important Information - The company has seen a significant positive increase in performance in September, indicating strong momentum heading into Q4 [7] - Non-interest income was materially impacted by balance sheet actions, including a $299 million loss in the sale of securities [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on the new narrative for Horizon Bancorp Inc. and strategic emphasis - Management highlighted a focus on positive capital stewardship and a more efficient, de-risked balance sheet that will generate capital at a greater pace [36] Question: Potential outlets for capital outside of organic loan growth and M&A - Management indicated that M&A will focus on franchises that add to the current profitable franchise, with potential targets in Michigan and Indiana [39][40] Question: Balance sheet being rate neutral - Management clarified that while the balance sheet is modestly asset-sensitive, they do not expect significant impacts from rate changes [45] Question: Trends in credit quality and areas of stress - Management noted that non-performing loans increased slightly, but overall credit quality remains satisfactory with no significant areas of concern [70][74] Question: Loan growth outlook for 2026 - Management expects mid-single-digit growth primarily from organic commercial growth, without the need for significant additional headcount [87] Question: Capital accretion and buybacks - Management stated that while buybacks are an option for creating shareholder value, they are not a priority in the near term following recent capital raises [91]
Horizon Bancorp(HBNC) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-23 13:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Horizon Bancorp Inc. reported net interest margin expansion for the eighth consecutive quarter, with an exit run rate in September above 4% [5][16] - The net interest margin increased by 29 basis points to 3.52% for the quarter, with expectations to expand further in Q4 to a range of 4.15% to 4.25% [19][26] - The allowance for credit losses decreased to $50.2 million, representing an allowance to credit loss to loans held for investment of 1.04% [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net loan total for investment decreased to $162 million, primarily due to a $210 million impact from the runoff and sale of indirect auto loans, while commercial loans grew by $58 million [9][10] - The combined relationship-based fee income categories of service charges, card, and mortgage income increased from the previous quarter [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The core relationship balances in the deposit portfolio remained resilient despite planned outflows from higher-rate transactional accounts [14] - The company anticipates a decline in deposit balances in Q4, primarily due to the targeted reduction of high-cost non-relationship balances [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on creating durable returns and sustainable long-term value for shareholders through disciplined capital management and profitable loan growth [6][30] - Horizon Bancorp Inc. is considering M&A opportunities that are accretive to its community banking platform, with a focus on franchises that enhance profitability [37][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in delivering superior community banking performance and capital generation metrics moving into 2026 [6][30] - The company is monitoring economic conditions closely, with future provision expenses driven by anticipated loan growth and credit quality trends [12] Other Important Information - The company executed a balance sheet restructuring that exceeded initial expectations, optimizing securities and loan portfolios [4][6] - Non-interest income was impacted by a $299 million loss in the sale of securities and a $7.7 million loss on the sale of the indirect auto loan portfolio [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the new narrative for Horizon Bancorp Inc.? - Management indicated that the company is positioned to generate capital at a greater pace and will focus on measured deployment strategies for growth, including potential M&A opportunities [35][36] Question: Are there any other potential outlets for capital outside of organic loan growth and M&A? - Management confirmed that M&A will be a focus, targeting franchises that add to the current profitable platform, with potential sizes ranging from $300 million to several billion dollars [38][40] Question: How does the company support its rate-neutral position? - Management explained that while the balance sheet is modestly asset-sensitive, they do not expect significant impacts from rate changes due to their deposit positioning [44][45] Question: What are the trends in credit quality? - Management noted that non-performing loans increased slightly, but overall credit quality remains satisfactory, with no significant areas of stress identified [70][74] Question: What is the outlook for loan growth in 2026? - Management anticipates mid-single-digit growth primarily from organic commercial growth, with no immediate need for significant headcount increases [87][88]
Horizon Bancorp(HBNC) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-23 13:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Horizon Bancorp's net interest margin expanded for the eighth consecutive quarter, reaching 3.52% in Q3, with an exit run rate above 4% in September [5][17][20] - The company reported a net loan total for investment of $162 million, with a $210 million impact from the runoff and sale of indirect auto loans [10][12] - The allowance for credit losses decreased to $50.2 million, representing 1.04% of loans held for investment, with a net release of $3.6 million in provisions [12][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial loans grew by $58 million in Q3, representing a 7% annualized increase, while residential mortgage lending volumes remained flat [10][11] - The combined relationship-based fee income categories, including service charges and card income, showed an increase from the previous quarter [5][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced predicted outflows in higher-cost non-core transactional accounts as part of its balance sheet restructuring plan [5][14] - Non-interest income was impacted by a $299 million loss in the sale of securities and a $7.7 million loss on the sale of the indirect auto loan portfolio [21][22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Horizon Bancorp is focused on creating durable returns and sustainable long-term value for shareholders through disciplined capital management and profitable growth strategies [6][30] - The company plans to pursue M&A opportunities that are accretive to its community banking platform, with a focus on franchises that enhance profitability [35][39] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in delivering superior community banking performance and capital generation metrics moving into 2026 [6][30] - The outlook for Q4 includes expectations for net interest margin expansion to 4.15% to 4.25%, with total reported expenses approximating $40 million [27][28] Other Important Information - The company has made significant improvements in its deposit portfolio, enhancing growth and stability in core client relationships [14][15] - The effective tax rate for Q4 is expected to be in the range of 18% to 20%, reflecting stronger pre-tax income [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on the new narrative for Horizon Bancorp Inc. - Management indicated that the company is positioned to generate capital at a greater pace and will focus on measured deployment strategies for profitable growth [34][35] Question: Criteria for potential M&A opportunities - M&A will focus on franchises that add to the current profitable franchise, with potential targets in Michigan and Indiana [36][39] Question: Balance sheet's rate neutrality - Management acknowledged a modest asset sensitivity but emphasized that the balance sheet is designed to be rate neutral [42] Question: Trends in credit quality and areas of stress - Non-performing loans increased slightly, but management noted that the overall credit profile remains strong, with no significant areas of concern [58][61] Question: Loan growth outlook for 2026 - The company anticipates mid-single-digit loan growth driven primarily by commercial lending, with no immediate need for significant headcount increases [70][71]
Chemung Financial Corporation Reports Third Quarter 2025 Net Income of $7.8 million, or $1.62 per share
Globenewswire· 2025-10-21 20:05
Core Points - Chemung Financial Corporation reported a net income of $7.8 million, or $1.62 per share, for Q3 2025, a significant recovery from a net loss of $6.5 million in Q2 2025 and an increase from $5.7 million in Q3 2024 [1] - The growth in net interest income was $1.9 million, or approximately 9%, compared to the prior quarter, driven by increased interest income on loans and a decrease in interest expense on deposits [2][6] - The company emphasized the strength in credit quality and core operations, indicating a strong strategic direction and execution across divisions [3] Financial Performance - Net interest income for Q3 2025 totaled $22.7 million, up from $20.8 million in Q2 2025, marking a 9.1% increase [6] - Interest income on loans increased due to a $63.1 million rise in average loan balances and a seven basis point increase in average yield [7] - Non-interest income for Q3 2025 was $6.1 million, recovering from a loss of $10.7 million in the previous quarter [15] Balance Sheet and Asset Quality - Total assets decreased to $2.697 billion as of September 30, 2025, from $2.776 billion at the end of 2024, primarily due to balance sheet repositioning efforts [40] - Non-performing loans decreased to $7.8 million, or 0.35% of total loans, down from $9.0 million, or 0.43%, at the end of 2024 [36] - The allowance for credit losses on loans increased to $23.6 million as of September 30, 2025, compared to $21.4 million at the end of 2024 [38] Dividends and Shareholder Equity - The company announced a $0.02 per share dividend increase, representing a 6.3% increase over the prior quarter [8] - Total shareholders' equity rose to $245.3 million as of September 30, 2025, a 13.9% increase from $215.3 million at the end of 2024 [49] Market Position and Strategy - The Corporation's strategic balance sheet repositioning included the sale of available for sale securities, which contributed to improved liquidity and capital management [41][55] - The company continues to experience strong demand for commercial lending products, with total commercial loan balances increasing by $154.7 million, or 10.2%, compared to the prior year-end [42]
Union Bankshares Announces Earnings for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2025 and Declares Quarterly Dividend
Globenewswire· 2025-10-15 20:26
Core Viewpoint - Union Bankshares, Inc. reported significant growth in net income and asset quality for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2025, compared to the same periods in 2024, despite ongoing economic uncertainty [1][7][12]. Financial Performance - Consolidated net income for Q3 2025 was $3.4 million, up from $1.3 million in Q3 2024, and for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, it was $8.3 million compared to $5.8 million in the same period of 2024 [1][7]. - Net interest income increased by $1.7 million, or 18.3%, to $11.2 million for Q3 2025, driven by a rise in interest income and volume [8]. - Noninterest income rose to $3.4 million for Q3 2025 from $2.9 million in Q3 2024 [10]. Balance Sheet Highlights - Total assets grew to $1.57 billion as of September 30, 2025, from $1.52 billion a year earlier, primarily due to a 5.1% increase in loans to $1.18 billion [2]. - Total deposits increased to $1.19 billion as of September 30, 2025, compared to $1.17 billion a year prior [5]. - Stockholder's equity strengthened, with book value per share rising 6.1% to $16.95 [6]. Asset Quality and Risk Management - The allowance for credit losses on loans increased by 14.0% due to proactive risk management and loan growth [3]. - Credit loss expense decreased to $313 thousand in Q3 2025 from $425 thousand in Q3 2024, reflecting the growth and mix of the loan portfolio [9]. Loan Activity - Qualifying residential loans originated and sold to the secondary market were $46.0 million and $102.8 million for Q3 and nine months ended September 30, 2025, respectively, compared to $35.2 million and $76.1 million in the same periods of 2024 [4]. Dividend Declaration - The Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.36 per share for the quarter, payable on November 6, 2025 [11].
Healthcare Realty (HR) Q2 FFO Jumps 8%
The Motley Fool· 2025-08-02 09:11
Core Viewpoint - Healthcare Realty Trust reported its Q2 2025 earnings, showing improved operational performance despite a GAAP net loss per share and a decline in revenue compared to the previous year [1][8]. Financial Performance - Normalized FFO per share was $0.41, exceeding analyst estimates, while GAAP net loss per share was $(0.45) [1][8]. - Revenue for the quarter was $297.502 million, down 5.9% from $316.3 million in Q2 2024 [2]. - Funds Available for Distribution (FAD) was $115.4 million, reflecting a 7.2% increase year-over-year [2][8]. - The quarterly dividend was reduced by 23% to $0.24 per share to enhance sustainability and retained earnings [9][10]. Business Overview and Strategy - The company specializes in owning and managing medical office buildings, focusing on outpatient healthcare facilities leased to leading health systems and physicians [3]. - Strategic priorities include optimizing the property portfolio, improving operational efficiency, and managing the balance sheet [4]. Operational Highlights - Same store cash Net Operating Income (NOI) improved by 5.1%, with occupancy rising to 90% and margins reaching 64.3% [5]. - Tenant retention was at 83%, with health system tenants accounting for 33% of new leasing volume [5][13]. - The company executed 1.5 million square feet of leases, with 452,000 square feet in new agreements [5]. Portfolio Management - The company sold $182.4 million of assets during the quarter, targeting non-core or underperforming assets, with an additional $700 million in sales under contract [6]. - The Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio improved from 6.4x to 6.0x, with further reductions anticipated by year-end 2025 [6]. Leadership and Governance - Leadership changes included a new President and CEO, along with a streamlined board governance structure [7]. - A comprehensive strategic plan was launched, focusing on margin expansion and disciplined capital allocation [7]. Future Guidance - Full-year Normalized FFO per share guidance was raised to a range of $1.57 to $1.61, with same store cash NOI growth expectations lifted to 3.25% to 4.00% [15]. - The company aims for a Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio of 5.4x to 5.7x by year-end [15]. - Key themes to monitor include execution of pending asset sales, margin expansion, and operational improvements [16].
Associated Banc-p(ASB) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-24 22:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings of $0.65 per share for Q2 2025, with total loans growing by 1% quarter-over-quarter and 3% year-over-year [9] - Net interest income reached a record $300 million, up $43 million or 17% compared to the same period last year [10][11] - The return on tangible common equity was 12.96%, a 62 basis point improvement from Q1 [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial and industrial (C&I) loans grew by over $700 million in the first half of 2025, with $356 million added in Q2 alone [6][10] - Total average quarterly loans increased by nearly $400 million versus Q1, with C&I leading the growth [14] - Non-interest income for Q2 was $67 million, a 3% increase year-over-year [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core customer deposits were up 4.3% compared to the same period last year, despite seasonal outflows in Q2 [10][15] - The net interest margin climbed above 3%, reflecting a strong profitability profile [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing its strategic plan, which includes enhancing profitability through a mix shift in its asset base [5][12] - There is a strong emphasis on organic growth in customer relationships, with the best organic checking household growth in nearly a decade [5][16] - The company aims to reduce reliance on wholesale funding by increasing lower-cost core customer deposits [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to grow core customer deposits in the second half of the year, citing strong household growth trends and a growing commercial pipeline [10][16] - The management remains vigilant regarding credit quality, with a proactive approach to managing portfolios amid macroeconomic uncertainties [8][30] Other Important Information - The company added nine basis points to its CET1 capital in Q2, totaling a 19 basis point increase year-to-date [7] - The efficiency ratio improved to below 56%, the lowest level since early 2023 [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Seasonal decline in deposits - Management acknowledged the seasonal decline but noted that it was anticipated and that they expect a rebound in the second half of the year due to a growing commercial pipeline [36][39] Question: Update on office CRE portfolio - Management indicated that the office CRE portfolio is evolving positively, with proactive clients benefiting from improvements [46][48] Question: Margin outlook and deposit pricing strategy - Management discussed the importance of asset-side growth in maintaining margin strength and emphasized disciplined pricing strategies for deposits [53][59] Question: Thoughts on acquisitions - Management stated that any potential acquisition would need to be a good strategic, financial, and cultural fit, emphasizing the priority of executing their current strategic plan [68][70] Question: Increase in ACL for C&I portfolio - Management explained that the increase in the allowance for credit losses (ACL) for the C&I portfolio is primarily due to growth in that segment [72] Question: Sustainability of positive operating leverage - Management expressed confidence in sustaining positive operating leverage into 2026, driven by growth in commercial loans and disciplined expense management [79][81]