Core Viewpoint - Columbia Banking (COLB) stock has increased by 32.6% over the past six months, driven by strong quarterly performance, the acquisition of Pacific Premier, and favorable operating conditions [1][9] Financial Performance - The third-quarter 2025 results showed a 17% year-over-year increase in total revenues, with net interest income (NII) also up by 17%, and net interest margin (NIM) improved to 3.84% from 3.56% a year ago [2] - Management expects fourth-quarter 2025 NIM to be "just north of" 3.90%, supported by approximately $12 million in deposit premium amortization [5] Cost Management and Synergies - Columbia Banking targets $127 million in annual cost savings from the Pacific Premier acquisition, with $48 million already realized by September 30, 2025 [8] - Operating expenses are anticipated to be between $330 million and $340 million per quarter for the next several quarters [8] Shareholder Returns - The board has authorized up to $700 million in share repurchases through November 30, 2026, which could enhance per-share metrics if executed [7] - The quarterly dividend has been raised by 2.8% to 37 cents per share, yielding 5.1% [7] Valuation and Earnings Estimates - COLB trades at a forward P/E of 9.52X, which is below the industry average, with a price target of $31 [11] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for COLB's earnings is $2.91 for 2025 and $3.07 for 2026, indicating year-over-year growth of 7.4% for 2025 and 5.6% for 2026 [12]