Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q3 2025, the company reported net income of $37 million or $0.82 per diluted share on revenue of $116 million, reflecting a quarter-on-quarter revenue growth of 13.6% and EPS growth of 19% year-on-year [10][11] - Pre-tax, pre-provision income was $55 million, with a pre-tax, pre-provision ROA of 2.25%, ROA of 1.5%, and ROTC of 15.1%, indicating strong profitability metrics [10][11] - The net interest margin expanded by 9 basis points to 4.27%, supported by an improved deposit mix and higher asset yields [11][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans grew by 6% linked quarter and 11% year-to-date, ending at $7.5 billion, with originations of $264 million driven by commercial banking and equipment leasing [11][13] - Non-interest income totaled $15.9 million, up 9.5% from the last quarter, primarily due to a $7 million gain on the sale of loans [17] - Non-interest expense increased by 1.5% to $60.5 million, reflecting higher salary and employee benefits [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits reached $7.8 billion, up 1% linked quarter and 7% year-to-date, with non-interest-bearing accounts increasing by $160 million or 9% linked quarter [11][14] - The company experienced stable demand for credit, with loan commitments growing and draw activity contributing to loan growth [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to build a preeminent commercial banking franchise in Chicago, focusing on expanding its commercial payments business and onboarding customers in 2026 [20] - The company is open to disciplined M&A opportunities that align with its strategic goals, maintaining a strong capital position to support growth and potential acquisitions [6][7][35] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted stable to improving credit quality despite macroeconomic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, emphasizing vigilance over risks [6] - The company anticipates crossing the $10 billion asset threshold in Q1 2026, which will delay the impact of the Durbin Amendment until 2027 [20][37] Other Important Information - The company was recognized with multiple awards, including the 2024 SBA 7A, 504, and Expert Lender of the Year awards, highlighting its strong employee engagement and workplace culture [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on margin and net interest income - Management indicated that they have been outperforming model assumptions due to competitive deposit rate resets and improved analytical capabilities [26][27] Question: M&A activity and capital management - The company remains open to M&A opportunities, focusing on transactions that deliver shareholder value while maintaining capital flexibility for growth and dividends [35][36] Question: Impact of government shutdown on SBA business - Management explained that while they continue to originate SBA loans, the shutdown affects their ability to sell and settle loans in the secondary market, potentially delaying gain on sale income [39][40] Question: Credit reserve levels and economic outlook - The decrease in reserves was attributed to the resolution of loans with specific reserves, and management would assess reserves based on the unguaranteed exposure if holding loans longer due to the shutdown [95][96]