First Hawaiian(FHB) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net interest income increased to $160.5 million, up$ 1.8 million from the prior quarter, driven by lower deposit costs and investment portfolio restructuring [12][7] - Total loans declined by $115 million or 0.8% from the prior quarter, primarily due to commercial real estate loans [9] - Total deposits slightly declined, with retail deposits increasing by$ 105 million while commercial deposits fell by $167 million [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Noninterest income was stable at$ 50.5 million, while noninterest expenses were $123.6 million, with no significant nonrecurring items [14] - The bank maintained strong credit performance, with classified assets decreasing by$ 3 million and year-to-date net charge-offs at $3.8 million [15][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The statewide unemployment rate remained stable at 3%, compared to the national rate of 4.1% [6] - Visitor arrivals increased by 1% and spending rose by 4.5% compared to 2024 levels, with Maui seeing the largest increases [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains well-capitalized with ample liquidity and plans to continue supporting customers while managing expenses [8][7] - The management is focused on maintaining strong relationships with customers and is optimistic about loan growth despite market uncertainties [24][63] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted increased uncertainty in the macroeconomic environment but remains optimistic about opportunities for growth [24][63] - The company is closely monitoring the impact of tariffs and economic conditions on its loan portfolios, particularly in the consumer and commercial sectors [68][70] Other Important Information - The bank repurchased approximately 974,000 shares at a total cost of$ 25 million, with $75 million remaining under the 2025 stock repurchase plan [8] - The allowance for credit losses increased to$ 166.6 million, reflecting a more pessimistic economic forecast [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on loan performance and economic pulse - Management indicated that average loans for the quarter were up over Q4, with a strong pipeline despite some uncertainty in the market [23][24] Question: Competitive landscape on deposit costs - Management expressed confidence in further reducing deposit costs as rates decline, but noted limited room for significant reductions beyond current levels [26][32] Question: Expense trajectory and investment plans - Management reiterated guidance for expenses and indicated a commitment to investing in the business while remaining cautious about the economic outlook [36][38] Question: Allowance for credit losses and consumer exposure - The increase in the allowance was driven by the economic forecasting model, with management noting stable performance in the consumer portfolio [42][94] Question: Impact of tariffs on loan portfolios - Management is closely monitoring the impact of tariffs on various loan portfolios, particularly in the C&I sector, but has not observed significant concerns yet [68][70] Question: Margin outlook and rate cuts - Management indicated that the ability to offset rate cuts will depend on loan growth, with potential for margins to remain stable if growth is strong [80][81]