Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings of $140.9 million, or EPS of $2.22 per diluted share for Q3 2025, reflecting continued momentum and confidence in future growth [4][5] - Total outstanding loan balances increased by 2.4% sequentially, adding nearly $1.2 billion over the past two quarters [5][9] - Net interest margin expanded by 11 basis points, with core net interest income increasing by $11.3 million [5][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The core C and I loan portfolio grew by 1.4% quarter over quarter, while specialized lending portfolios showed slight increases, particularly in healthcare loans [10][11] - The commercial real estate (CRE) business increased by 4.2% quarter over quarter, with expectations for continued growth in outstanding balances [12] - Fee income grew by 3.6% sequentially, with a record quarter for investment banking revenue driven by municipal bond underwriting [7][8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Assets Under Management (AUMA) reached over $122.7 billion, marking a 4.1% increase in the third quarter [20] - The company maintained strong capital levels, with TCE growing to 10.1% and CET1 reaching 13.6% [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to sustain loan growth momentum, with projections of 5% to 7% growth for the full year [25] - There is a focus on organic growth, with share repurchases and dividends as secondary uses of capital, while M&A opportunities are considered cautiously [36][39] - The launch of the mortgage finance business is expected to contribute significantly to growth, with a target of $500 million in commitments by year-end [46][48] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in maintaining strong loan growth despite competitive pressures and market disruptions [33][34] - The company anticipates that credit quality will remain strong, with expectations for low charge-offs and a healthy allowance for credit losses [15][26] - The management highlighted the importance of adapting to market conditions and maintaining a strong liquidity profile [6][22] Other Important Information - The company repurchased over 365,000 shares at an average price of $111 per share during the quarter, reflecting a commitment to shareholder value [8] - The combined allowance for credit losses is $328 million, representing 1.32% of outstanding loans, indicating a healthy reserve level [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth expectations and competitive forces - Management noted strong loan growth of around 2.5% in recent quarters and expressed confidence in sustaining this momentum despite competitive pressures and market disruptions [31][33] Question: Capital allocation and M&A considerations - The company prioritizes organic growth, followed by share repurchases and dividends, while remaining open to M&A opportunities that provide strategic value [36][39] Question: Core margin trends and expectations - Management expects a continued upward trend in core margin, driven by fixed-rate asset repricing and deposit repricing opportunities [43][44] Question: Mortgage finance business growth potential - The company anticipates significant growth in the mortgage finance business, with a target of $500 million in commitments by year-end and plans for aggressive growth in 2026 [46][48] Question: Fee income range and expense guidance - Management provided insights into the fee income range, indicating strong activity across various business lines, while also discussing expense growth and expectations for moderation in the future [51][56]