Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a GAAP net income of $20.8 million for Q2 2025, which included a $3.36 million gain from the sale of a branch and various acquisition-related expenses [12][21] - The core net income, excluding non-core items, was $19.5 million, translating to an EPS of $0.66 [12][21] - The return on average assets (ROAA) was maintained at 1% and tangible book value increased by almost 15% annualized [6][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans held for investment increased by 4.5% annualized, amounting to an increase of $66.7 million from Q1 [14] - New loan production was $432 million, primarily driven by commercial and industrial (C&I) loans and commercial real estate (CRE) [14] - Total deposits decreased by $38.5 million, mainly due to a net decrease in interest-bearing deposits [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The weighted average cost of deposits decreased to 2.62%, down six basis points from the previous quarter [18] - Non-interest bearing deposits increased by $102 million or 7.8% on a linked quarter basis [16] - The company expects to maintain elevated liquidity levels in the near term, assuming no rate cuts [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving operational efficiency through a core processing system upgrade, which is expected to enhance both organic and inorganic growth [7][9] - A partnership with Progressive Bank is anticipated to provide meaningful earnings accretion starting in 2026 [9][10] - The company aims to maintain a balanced approach to growth while managing concentration risks, particularly in C&I and owner-occupied loans [46][76] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating through credit challenges, with expectations for resolution on non-performing loans in the upcoming quarters [10][34] - The sentiment among borrowers is improving, with increased activity noted in the market, contributing to a more optimistic outlook for loan growth [76] - The company is prepared to capitalize on opportunities for growth while maintaining a disciplined approach to risk management [86] Other Important Information - The company experienced a negative trend in asset quality metrics, with non-performing loans (NPLs) increasing to 0.97% [22] - The company is actively managing its funding sources, including an increase in FHLB borrowings to optimize its balance sheet [54] Q&A Session Summary Question: Excess liquidity related to core conversion - Management indicated that excess liquidity will be maintained until the core conversion with Oakwood is complete [28][29] Question: Credit migration and reserves - Management confirmed that the migration was from substandard to non-accrual, with adequate reserves in place for the affected credits [30][32] Question: Expense outlook for the next quarters - Management expects a modest increase in core expenses in Q3, with a run rate in the low $50 million range [40] Question: Loan growth expectations - Management anticipates mid-single-digit loan growth for the remainder of the year, with a positive sentiment among borrowers [72][76] Question: Loan yields and competition - Management noted that loan yields have softened due to competition, but they remain focused on maintaining a competitive stance [51] Question: Feedback on the new core processing system - Management stated it is too early for comprehensive feedback but remains optimistic about the long-term benefits of the new system [56][58] Question: Growth potential of Smith Sheldon Wilson - Management expressed confidence in the growth potential of Smith Sheldon Wilson, expecting to double its impact in the next 12-24 months [63][65]