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]