Wintrust(WTFC)2025-04-22 18:01Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported quarterly net income of 526 million, despite having two fewer business days compared to the prior period [6][36] - Loans grew by over 1.1 billion, with a net interest margin of 3.56%, which is five basis points higher than the previous quarter [7][11] - Charge-offs for the quarter decreased to 11 basis points, and the provision for credit losses was 116.6 million, with increases in net security gains and fees from covered call options offset by lower wealth management revenue [17] - Non-interest expenses totaled 2.4 million from the prior quarter, primarily due to lower salary and employee benefit expenses [18][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-interest bearing deposits represented 21% of total deposits at the end of the quarter, remaining stable over the last five quarters [12] - The company anticipates strong loan growth in the second quarter, particularly in the premium finance segment, which is expected to grow close to 2 per share on an annualized basis and continues to grow its capital ratio, with a CET1 ratio of slightly over 10% [36] - The management emphasized the importance of differentiated client service and maintaining a strong local presence to navigate economic uncertainties [40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while there is uncertainty in the market, clients remain generally encouraged about the local economy and their ability to perform normally [45] - The company is focused on proactive communication with clients to address concerns related to economic conditions, tariffs, and funding cuts [34][46] Other Important Information - The company received 14 Coalition Greenwich Awards and was recognized for best customer service in Illinois for the fourth consecutive year [36] - The tangible book value per common share increased to 75.39 in the prior quarter [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: How prevalent is uncertainty from borrowers and its impact on growth outlook? - Management acknowledged that borrowers are cautious but remain generally encouraged about the local economy, maintaining their loan growth expectations [45][46] Question: Can you walk us through the thought process on reserve changes? - The management explained that while the baseline economic scenario improved, they implemented a qualitative overlay due to spikes in credit spreads and equity market factors at the end of the quarter [52][69] Question: Any changes in competitive pricing on new home production? - Management noted that competition remains rational, with slight declines in rates from competitors, but they expect to balance this with strong loan growth [58][60] Question: How is new client acquisition in wealth management going? - The company is transitioning to a new platform that is expected to improve capabilities for financial advisors, which should enhance growth in the wealth management business [72][73] Question: Thoughts on M&A and growth through acquisition? - Management indicated ongoing M&A conversations and expressed confidence in their ability to pursue attractive acquisition opportunities [76] Question: How should we think about the source of deposit growth going forward? - Management expects to continue growing deposits to match loan growth, with a stable mix of commercial and consumer relationships [82][84]