NewtekOne(NEWT) - 2024 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported Q2 2024 earnings of $0.43 per share, beating the analyst consensus of $0.405, with revenue around $60.6 million [3][4] - The company reaffirmed its full-year EPS guidance for 2024 at $1.85 to $2.05, indicating confidence in its financial outlook despite recent market volatility [3][4] - The net interest margin for the bank was reported at 4.3%, remaining stable quarter-to-quarter, while the holding company’s net interest margin was lower at 2.71% due to the mix of income sources [4][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The bank experienced a 17% growth in business deposits, reaching $136 million, and a 13% sequential growth in total loans [4][11] - The efficiency ratio at Newtek Bank improved to 42%, reflecting operational efficiency [9][10] - The company highlighted the importance of its alternative loan program, which is expected to drive future growth and profitability [6][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that the industry averages for deposit and loan growth are flat, contrasting with its own growth figures [4][11] - The company is positioned to benefit from a shift in funding costs as it transitions from higher-cost securitizations to lower-cost bank funding [5][27] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to differentiate itself from traditional banks by focusing on technology-driven solutions and a unique business model that emphasizes noninterest income [8][15] - The Newtek Advantage business portal is a key strategic initiative designed to enhance customer engagement and provide added value beyond traditional banking services [29][44] - The company is actively expanding its SBA lending and alternative loan programs, which are expected to contribute significantly to revenue growth [35][51] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate market volatility and maintain its earnings guidance, emphasizing the unpredictability of market conditions [55][56] - The management team highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong capital position and the potential for lower-cost deposits to enhance profitability [49][51] - The company is focused on leveraging its technology and operational efficiencies to drive growth and improve customer service [44][45] Other Important Information - The company completed a registered public offering of $71 million in fixed-rate notes, which will support its growth initiatives [9] - The company has opened a new office in Wilmington, North Carolina, and hired additional staff to support its commercial banking operations [38][39] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide details on the 2024 guidance and areas of noninterest income that are expected to perform well? - Management indicated that the alternative loan program (ALP) and merchant services are expected to drive noninterest income growth in the second half of the year [53] Question: How has recent market volatility impacted the guidance? - Management noted that while market conditions have been unpredictable, they chose to maintain their guidance to provide reliability to investors [55] Question: Can you explain the expected shift in EPS from Q3 to Q4? - Management clarified that the shift is influenced by various internal factors, including joint ventures and the timing of revenue recognition from the ALP program [57][58]