Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For 2025, the company reported net income before taxes of approximately $80 million, representing a 16.4% increase, while total revenue reached $284 million, up 10.6% from $257 million in 2024 [5][24] - The earnings per share (EPS) for Q4 was $0.65, with the annual EPS for 2025 at $2.21 basic and $2.18 diluted, reflecting increases of 12% and 11% respectively over 2024 [8][24] - Tangible book value grew significantly, ending 2025 at $12.19 compared to approximately $6.92 at the beginning of the year [9][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The alternative loan program (ALP) has shown strong performance, with a significant increase in loan originations and a focus on long-term loans with lower monthly payments [10][15] - The efficiency ratio at the holding company improved from 63.2% to 58.3%, indicating better operational efficiency as assets grew by 33% [12][26] - The payments business contributed approximately $16.8 million of adjusted EBITDA in 2025, with expectations of $17.9 million in 2026 [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company opened 9,000 new depository accounts and reached a total of 34,000 active depository accounts, indicating strong market penetration [3][11] - Business deposits increased by $34 million in Q4 and $164 million for the year, while consumer deposits grew by $167 million in Q4 and $293 million for the year [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to serve independent business owners and small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), focusing on providing better loan products with longer amortization periods and lower interest rates [4][5] - The strategic acquisition of National Bank of New York City in January 2023 has significantly expanded the company's asset base and operational capabilities [6][9] - The company is leveraging technology to create a frictionless banking experience, integrating services such as payroll and insurance with banking products [29][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a K-shaped economic recovery, with businesses serving the lower end of the market facing challenges, while those serving the middle and upper markets are performing well [60] - The company expects to see continued growth in SBA loan originations and is well-positioned to adapt to changes in the lending environment [44][46] - Management expressed optimism about the future, highlighting the potential for productivity improvements and inflation stabilization in 2026 [60] Other Important Information - The company has initiated the offering of life insurance to business lending clients, with 25% of borrowers purchasing life insurance through the Newtek Agency [12] - The efficiency ratio at the bank is approximately 47%, indicating strong operational performance [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: What drove the increase in deposit account openings? - Management attributed the 50% increase in deposit account openings to the frictionless digital access for both business and consumer deposits, along with competitive rates and no fees [38][41] Question: What are the trends in non-interest income and expectations for next year? - Management expects the 7(a) business to pick up, citing recent changes in SBA regulations that may benefit their lending volumes [43][44] Question: How are SBA loans performing compared to competitors? - Management indicated that their charge-off rates are in line with industry averages, while their margins are significantly better than larger competitors [88]