Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The diluted GAAP earnings per share increased to $4.24 from $3.32 in the prior quarter, while net income was $116 million compared to $584 million in the linked quarter [8][10] - The return on assets (ROA) and return on common equity (ROCE) were reported at 1.37% and 10.39%, respectively [8] - The common equity tier 1 (CET1) ratio at the end of the second quarter was estimated at 10.98%, down from 11.5% at the end of the first quarter [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average residential mortgage and consumer loans grew by $1.1 billion, reflecting a diversified business model [7] - Noninterest income increased to $683 million from $611 million in the linked quarter, with notable growth in mortgage banking and trust income [17] - The efficiency ratio improved to 55.2% from 60.5% in the prior quarter, indicating better expense management [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average total deposits rose by $2.2 billion or 1% to $163.4 billion, with growth across most segments [12] - The yield on investment securities decreased by 19 basis points to 3.81%, primarily due to premium amortization [15] - Commercial real estate (CRE) loans declined by 4% to $25.3 billion, reflecting continued payoffs and paydowns [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on growing its New England and Long Island markets while optimizing resources through simplification and enhancing risk management capabilities [27] - The management emphasized a disciplined approach to acquisitions, indicating a preference for cultural fit and credit quality in potential targets [77] - The company aims to maintain a strong capital position while being opportunistic with share repurchases [26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management acknowledged potential economic slowing and risks related to tariffs and geopolitical conditions, but expressed optimism about the company's strong liquidity and capital generation [23] - The outlook for taxable equivalent net interest income is projected to be between $7 billion and $7.15 billion, reflecting continued softness in commercial and CRE loan growth [24] - The management expects net charge-offs for the full year to be less than 40 basis points, with criticized loans anticipated to continue declining [26] Other Important Information - The company executed $1.1 billion in share repurchases during the second quarter, contributing to a 1% growth in tangible book value per share [6] - The net interest margin was reported at 3.62%, a decrease of four basis points from the prior quarter, primarily due to higher costs of interest-bearing deposits [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan dynamics and CRE portfolio outlook - The management indicated that the CRE pipeline continues to build, with over $5 billion currently in the pipeline, suggesting a positive outlook for growth later in the year [32] Question: Capital management and buyback strategy - The management stated that the target CET1 ratio is around 10%, but given current market uncertainties, operating in the range of 10.75% to 11% is deemed appropriate [36] Question: Fee income growth and trust business performance - The trust business has shown strong growth, driven by investments in Europe and increased demand for corporate trust services [38] Question: Consumer loan growth sustainability - The management noted that recent consumer loan growth was driven by preemptive buying ahead of price increases, but expressed optimism for continued growth in the RV and auto sectors [68] Question: Deposit competition and strategy - The management emphasized the importance of attracting operating accounts and maintaining competitive rates to grow deposits sustainably [106]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $12 million and earnings per share of $0.50 for the quarter, indicating a strong start to the year [4] - Net interest income grew by 7% to $51.4 million compared to the previous year, with a net interest margin of 7.94% for the quarter [11] - The net book value per share increased to $16.36 from $16 in the prior quarter and $14.93 a year ago [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The consumer lending business originated $136 million in loans, maintaining a loan book of $2.4 billion, with average FICOs at origination of 685 for recreation loans and 781 for home improvement loans [4] - The commercial lending division originated $9.7 million in new loans and exited one loan with a significant return on investment [5][6] - The strategic partnership program achieved over $125 million in originations for the second consecutive quarter, diversifying the loan offerings [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans outstanding increased by 12% year-over-year to $2.5 billion, including $1.5 billion in recreation loans and $812 million in home improvement loans [12] - Consumer loans more than ninety days past due decreased to $8.7 million, or 0.37% of total consumer loans, down from 0.49% at the end of 2024 [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on methodical growth and maintaining strong credit quality in its loan origination processes [8] - There is an ongoing effort to expand the strategic partnership program, with expectations to add new partners over time [9] - The company is committed to capital allocation strategies, including share buybacks and dividend increases, reflecting a strong commitment to shareholders [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the stability of the taxi medallion business and identified recovery opportunities in charge-off medallion loans [7] - The company anticipates continued capital gains from its investments, with expectations for one or two more realizations in the year [26] - Management expects loan growth of 5% to 7% for the year, emphasizing a cautious approach to growth in light of economic uncertainties [48] Other Important Information - Operating expenses increased to $20.8 million, attributed to technological initiatives and legal costs [14] - The company approved a 9% increase in the quarterly dividend to $0.12 per share, marking the third increase since reinstating the dividend [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Were there any nonrecurring expense items aside from those highlighted? - Yes, professional fees were elevated, including $300,000 in technology costs and $600,000 related to the annual meeting [19] Question: Any update on the SEC matter? - The matter is believed to be resolved, pending board approval and a judge's sign-off [21] Question: What flexibility does the company have in building reserves? - The company has flexibility to use judgment in determining allowances, which was applied in Q1 [22] Question: Are there any anticipated capital gains from Medallion Capital for the rest of the year? - Yes, the company expects one or two more capital gains, but the timing is uncertain [26] Question: What is the outlook on margins and total loan growth for the rest of the year? - Margins are expected to remain stable, with loan growth projected at 5% to 7% [48]