Core Insights - First Financial Bancorp reported record-setting fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 results, showcasing strong profitability metrics and resilient net interest margin performance despite lower short-term rates [4][3][16] Financial Performance - Adjusted earnings per share for the fourth quarter reached $0.80, with an adjusted return on assets of 1.52% and an adjusted return on tangible common equity of 20.3% [3][7] - Full-year 2025 adjusted net income was $281 million, or $2.92 per share, with record revenue totaling almost $922 million, an 8% increase from 2024 [16] Balance Sheet Growth - Total loan balances increased by $1.7 billion during the quarter, primarily due to the Westfield acquisition, which contributed $1.6 billion [1][6] - Total deposit balances rose by $2 billion, including $1.8 billion from Westfield, with organic growth of $264 million [8] Net Interest Margin - The net interest margin (NIM) was reported at 3.98%, slightly down from the previous quarter, with guidance for first-quarter 2026 NIM expected to be between 3.94% and 3.99% [2][7] Fee Income - Adjusted fee income reached a record $77.3 million for the quarter, up 5% from the prior quarter, with expectations for first-quarter fee income between $71 million and $73 million [5][9][18] Expenses and Integration Costs - Adjusted non-interest expenses increased by approximately 6% from the prior quarter, largely due to acquisition-related costs, with first-quarter expense guidance set at $156 million to $158 million [10][11] Credit Quality and Capital - Asset quality remained stable, with non-performing assets at 0.48% of total assets and a total allowance of $207 million, including $26 million for the Westfield portfolio [13][14] - Tangible book value at quarter-end was $15.74, with a tangible common equity ratio of 7.79% [15] Growth Outlook - The company anticipates low single-digit organic loan growth in the first quarter and expects full-year loan growth of 6% to 8% [17] - Management highlighted growth initiatives in Grand Rapids and Chicago, focusing on expanding banking services and resources [19]

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hanmi Financial Corporation (NASDAQ: HAFC or “Hanmi”), the parent company of Hanmi Bank (the “Bank”), today reported financial results for the fourth quarter of 2025 and full year. Net income for the fourth quarter of 2025 was $21.2 million, or $0.70 per diluted share, compared with $22.1 million, or $0.73 per diluted share, for the third quarter of 2025. The return on average assets for the fourth quarter of 2025 was 1.07% and the return on average equity was ...

Core Insights - SouthState Bank reported strong financial performance in Q4 2025, with pre-provision net revenue (PP&R) of $323 million and earnings per share (EPS) of $2.47, contributing to a full-year PP&R of $1.27 billion and EPS of $9.50 for 2025 [2][5] Financial Performance - Loans and deposits grew at an annualized rate of 8% during the quarter, with cash and Fed Funds Sold levels increasing by nearly $500 million [1] - Excluding merger costs, 2025 EPS increased by over 30%, and tangible book value per share rose at a double-digit rate [3] - The company achieved record quarterly production of $3.9 billion in Q4, a 16% increase from Q3, with a loan pipeline of approximately $5 billion at year-end [11][12] Integration and Growth - The integration of Independent Financial, which expanded SouthState into Texas and Colorado, was characterized as "well-choreographed," with management noting reduced risk profile and positive momentum heading into 2026 [4][5] - Texas and Colorado markets produced $888 million in loans in Q4, a 15% increase from Q3, with full-year production in these markets up 10% compared to 2024 [13] Capital Management - The company was more aggressive with share repurchases in Q4, buying back 2 million shares at an average price of $90.65, and authorized an additional 5 million shares for repurchase [15][16] - The total payout ratio for the quarter was just shy of 100%, though management indicated this level is not expected to be sustained long term [16] Expense Management - Non-interest expenses rose due to performance-driven incentives and increased marketing and business development spending, but the efficiency ratio remained below 50% [6][9] - Management expects non-interest expenses to rise about 4% in 2026 from the 2025 base of $1.407 billion, reflecting inflationary pressures and growth initiatives [9] Outlook - The company anticipates net interest margin (NIM) to remain stable in the range of 3.80% to 3.90% for 2026, with average interest-earning assets expected to be between $61 billion and $62 billion [7][8] - Management forecasts loan accretion income of $125 million for 2026 and a deposit beta assumption of 27% to support loan growth [8]

Core Viewpoint - Zacks Investment Research has initiated coverage of Hawthorn Bancshares, Inc. (HWBK) with a "Neutral" recommendation, reflecting a mixed outlook for the company amid industry challenges [1] Company Overview - Hawthorn Bancshares, based in Jefferson City, MO, is a financial holding company that owns all outstanding capital stock of Hawthorn Bank, which operates 18 banking offices in Missouri and offers a range of financial services [2] Financial Performance - Hawthorn Bancshares reported continued operating strength in its third-quarter 2025 results, with higher net income driven by expanding margins and improved efficiency. Loan and deposit balances grew modestly, and asset quality remained stable despite one commercial credit moving to non-accrual [3] - The company's capital levels remained strong, allowing for ongoing dividends and share repurchases [3] Growth Drivers - Key factors driving future growth for Hawthorn Bancshares include sustained margin strength from disciplined balance-sheet management, strong capital levels providing flexibility for dividends and buybacks, and an emerging wealth management business contributing to fee income diversification [4] Market Position - Hawthorn Bancshares' stock has underperformed compared to industry peers and the broader market over the past year, with valuation reflecting cautious expectations from investors. There is potential for upside if earnings remain durable, but limited room for error exists if credit, funding, or margin pressures arise [6] Additional Insights - The company has a modest market capitalization of $234.5 million, indicating a promising yet risky segment of the market for potential investors [7]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.89 for the fourth quarter, a 7% increase compared to the linked quarter [4] - For the full year of 2025, net interest income improved by 2% compared to 2024, while the net interest margin declined by seven basis points [13][14] - The efficiency ratio for the fourth quarter was stable at 57.8%, with a full-year efficiency ratio of 58.7% compared to 58% for 2024 [16][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth for the full year was 6% compared to 2024, with a fourth-quarter annualized loan growth of 2% [10] - Fee-based income improved by 5% in the fourth quarter and 6% for the full year compared to 2024, driven by higher lease income and trust and investment income [15][16] - The provision for credit losses totaled $8.1 million for the fourth quarter, driven by net charge-offs and loan growth [6][7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-performing loans grew nearly $4 million compared to the linked quarter, while criticized loans declined by $32 million [9] - At year-end, 98.6% of the loan portfolio was considered current, down from 99% at September 30 [10] - The loan-to-deposit ratio remained around 89%, consistent with the linked quarter-end and prior year-end [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on technological capabilities and has implemented state-of-the-art software programs to enhance operational efficiency [20][21] - There is a strategic emphasis on maintaining a neutral interest rate risk position and managing deposit costs [14][17] - The company plans to achieve positive operating leverage for 2026 and anticipates loan growth between 3% and 5% compared to 2025 [24][25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about loan growth, particularly in the commercial sector, despite potential payoffs in a declining rate environment [33][34] - The company expects to cross the $10 billion asset threshold in 2027 but has no plans to do so organically [23][24] - Management anticipates a slight reduction in net charge-offs for 2026 compared to 2025, positively impacting the provision for credit losses [26] Other Important Information - The company plans to continue investing in data provision and warehousing, new talent, and specialty areas within existing businesses [84] - The Chief Commercial Banking Officer is set to retire, with a successor already appointed [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin guidance and accretion benefit - Management indicated that the accretion benefit for the full year is expected to be closer to five basis points [31] Question: Tax rate expectations - The tax rate for 2025 was around 21%, with expectations for 2026 to be in the 22% range [32] Question: Loan demand outlook - Management expressed encouragement regarding loan growth, particularly in commercial lending, despite some expected payoffs [33] Question: M&A environment and criteria - The company is focused on strategic patience in evaluating M&A opportunities, primarily within its existing footprint [43][44] Question: North Star Leasing performance - Management acknowledged a slight increase in charge-offs but remains optimistic about the long-term outlook for the leasing business [48] Question: Capital actions and share buybacks - Management confirmed ongoing share buyback programs and a continuation of the dividend rate [74] Question: Fee income growth outlook - Management discussed the challenges in the insurance market but remains committed to growth through acquisitions [81] Question: Deposit growth expectations - Management does not expect deposits to keep pace with loan growth, anticipating an increase in the loan-to-deposit ratio [95]

Core Viewpoint - U.S. Bancorp (USB) is expected to report year-over-year increases in quarterly revenues and earnings for Q4 2025, with results scheduled for January 20, 2026 [1][9] Financial Performance Expectations - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for net interest income (NII) is $4.29 billion, reflecting a 1.8% increase from the previous quarter [4] - The consensus estimate for total revenues is pegged at $7.33 billion, indicating a rise of 4.9% from the year-ago figure [14] - The consensus estimate for earnings per share is $1.19, representing an 11.2% increase from the prior year [14] Factors Influencing Performance - NII growth is expected to be supported by lower interest rates, stabilizing funding costs, and resilient loan demand [3][9] - Lending activity remained strong, particularly in commercial and industrial loans, despite uncertainties in tariff policies [4] - Non-interest income is projected to decline sequentially, with total non-interest income estimated at $3.04 billion, a decrease of 1.3% [10] Market Conditions - Elevated market volatility and client activity during the fourth quarter are anticipated to have positively impacted capital markets revenue [6] - Mortgage banking revenues are expected to decline to $166.9 million, a 7.3% decrease from the prior quarter, due to subdued refinancing activity [8][7] Expense Management - Total non-interest expenses are projected to rise by approximately 1%–1.5% compared to the previous quarter, driven by higher compensation and technology investments [10][11] Asset Quality - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for non-performing loans is $1.63 billion, indicating a 1.4% increase from the prior quarter [12] - The company is likely to have set aside funds for potential bad loans in light of expected rate cuts and improving economic conditions [11] Earnings Surprise History - U.S. Bancorp has a strong earnings surprise history, with an average surprise of 4.7% over the last four quarters [2]

Company Overview - Western Alliance Bancorporation is a leading regional bank holding company with a diversified portfolio of lending and deposit products, serving commercial and consumer clients through 36 branch locations and specialized loan production offices [6] - The company reported a revenue of $3.4 billion and a net income of $914.3 million for the trailing twelve months (TTM) [4] Recent Transaction - Vaughan Nelson Investment Management, L.P. disclosed a sale of 1,788,953 shares of Western Alliance, valued at approximately $145.27 million, resulting in a reduction of the fund's position to 0.33% of its 13F assets under management (AUM) from 1.7% in the previous quarter [2][8] - The fund's quarter-end position value dropped by $156.2 million due to the share sale and price movement [2] Market Context - There are concerns surrounding regional banks, particularly regarding the future interest rate environment, but optimism exists for anticipated results in 2026 [7] - Other regional banks have reported strong performance, such as Bank of New York Mellon with a 28% year-over-year earnings per share growth and M&T Bank achieving record net income in 2025 [11] Asset Quality - The quality of Western Alliance's assets appears to be improving, with a decline in the ratio of nonperforming loans and repossessed assets to total assets in Q3 [11] - The bank focuses on the western and southwestern regions of the U.S., which may raise specific concerns for investors [12] Investment Strategy - Maintaining a diversified portfolio is recommended, as it can help mitigate risks associated with individual companies [13] - The banking sector is generally positioned well heading into 2026, making it sensible to hold some banking stocks for income-producing dividends [13]

Group 1 - Wells Fargo set aside over $1 billion in the fourth quarter for potential loan defaults, an increase from $681 million in the third quarter [1] - The increase in provisions for credit losses is attributed to higher balances in commercial and industrial, auto, and credit card loans [1] - For the fourth quarter of 2024, Wells Fargo reported a provision of $1.095 billion [1] Group 2 - Net charge-offs for Wells Fargo were reported at $1 billion, up from $954 million in the third quarter [2] - The net charge-offs for the fourth quarter of 2024 were $1.2 billion [2]

Core Insights - Triumph Financial (NYSE: TFIN) is compared to its peers in the "State Commercial Banks – Fed Reserve System" industry, highlighting its performance in various financial metrics and ownership structures [1][4]. Institutional Ownership - 91.1% of Triumph Financial shares are owned by institutional investors, significantly higher than the industry average of 72.2%. Insider ownership stands at 5.6%, slightly below the industry average of 6.7% [1]. Risk and Volatility - Triumph Financial has a beta of 1.48, indicating its stock price is 48% more volatile than the S&P 500, while its peers have an average beta of 1.01 [2]. Analyst Ratings - Triumph Financial has received 1 sell rating and no buy or strong buy ratings, resulting in a rating score of 1.00. In contrast, its competitors have a higher average rating score of 2.50 [3]. Valuation & Earnings - Triumph Financial reported gross revenue of $487.93 million and net income of $16.09 million, with a price-to-earnings ratio of 238.24. In comparison, its peers have higher revenue of $749.76 million and net income of $95.99 million, with a lower price-to-earnings ratio of 39.72 [6]. Profitability - Triumph Financial's net margin is 2.00%, return on equity is 1.76%, and return on assets is 0.24%. These figures are significantly lower than its peers, which have net margins of 7.23%, return on equity of 6.94%, and return on assets of 0.79% [8]. Summary of Performance - Triumph Financial lags behind its peers in 10 out of 13 comparative factors, indicating less favorable growth aspects [9].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for Q3 2025 totaled $31 million, up 28% year over year from $24 million in the same quarter last year, and improved from a net loss of $28 million in Q2 2025 [5][6] - Net interest income reached $127 million for Q3 2025, an increase of 8% from the prior quarter and up 21% from Q3 2024 [10] - Net interest margin expanded by 20 basis points to 2.89% for Q3 2025, compared to 2.69% in the previous quarter [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was observed across all major segments: commercial and industrial loans, commercial real estate loans, and residential mortgage loans [7] - Gross loans totaled $14.6 billion, up 1.2% quarter over quarter, equivalent to 5% annualized growth [8] - Non-interest income showed quarter-over-quarter growth in service fees, international banking fees, foreign exchange, and wire transfer fees [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposits totaled $15.8 billion as of September 30, 2025, reflecting a 1% decrease from $15.9 billion as of June 30, primarily due to a reduction in brokered deposits [8] - Non-interest-bearing deposits increased to $3.5 billion, up 1% quarter over quarter [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on strengthening its deposit franchise and deepening primary banking relationships while optimizing deposit costs [8] - Continued investments in talent are aimed at driving sustainable growth and enhancing corporate and commercial banking capabilities [9] - The company anticipates high single-digit loan growth for 2025 and expects net interest income growth of approximately 10% [15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's position to drive profitable growth and create long-term value for shareholders [15] - The company is well-positioned to navigate an evolving macroeconomic environment with improved asset quality and capital ratios [7][8] Other Important Information - The board declared a quarterly common stock dividend of $0.14 per share, payable on November 21, 2025 [8] - The provision for credit losses was $9 million for Q3 2025, down from $15 million in Q2 2025, reflecting lower net charge-offs [13][14] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the spot rate on deposits? - The spot rate for total deposits at the end of September was 2.82%, and for interest-bearing deposits, it was 3.62% [19] Question: Any updates on Territorial Bancorp's integration? - The company is focusing on stabilizing and expanding operations post-acquisition, with incremental cost savings being realized [22] Question: What was the purchase accounting impact this quarter? - The loan accretion for this quarter was $5 million [25][26] Question: How much in CDs are maturing in the fourth quarter? - There are $2.3 billion of CDs maturing at an average rate of 4.08% [32][34] Question: How is the company managing loan growth amid potential rate decreases? - The company has a strong loan pipeline going into Q4 and expects to maintain loan growth despite seasonal slowdowns [52]