First Foundation (FFWM)2025-04-30 15:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of 0.08 per share, returning to profitability after a net loss of 5 million decrease in non-interest expense compared to the fourth quarter [5][10] - Pre-provision net revenue increased to 0.11 per share, compared to a loss of 180 million in new loan balances at an average yield of 7.09%, with approximately 78% being commercial and industrial (C and I) loans [5] - Loans held for investment decreased primarily due to 1.3 billion [5] - Total non-interest income was 4.7 million gain on the sale of securities [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Assets under management decreased to 5.4 billion at the end of the previous year, while trust assets under advisement increased to 1.1 billion [9] - Overall deposits declined to 400 million decrease in high-cost brokered deposits [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on reducing its commercial real estate concentration and selectively exiting lower-yielding multifamily loans [5] - A strategic plan is in place to remix the loan portfolio, improve interest rate risk management, and grow non-interest income through various channels [8] - The company aims to improve sustainable profitability over the intermediate term, with expectations for net interest margin to reach between 1.8% and 2.2% by the end of 2026 [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the financial future, highlighting strong capitalization, ample liquidity, and a focus on unlocking embedded value in the franchise [21] - The company anticipates a modest reduction in total assets as it works to reduce loans held for sale to zero and improve its deposit mix [20] - Management noted that while there is some hesitancy in capital expenditures among clients, there are also opportunities for growth in certain markets [27] Other Important Information - The company remains well-capitalized with a common equity Tier one ratio of 10.6% and a Tier one leverage ratio of 8.1% [19] - The tangible book value per share increased to 9.36 in the prior quarter [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: How have utilization rates trended thus far in 2025? - Management noted some hesitancy among clients regarding capital expenditures, but some clients have accelerated inventory purchases due to trade uncertainties [27] Question: Did you invest in any particular markets in 1Q? - The company added personnel in the Florida market and remains optimistic about that area, while most production is expected to come from California [29] Question: Is the decline in AUM due to fluctuations in customer account balances? - Management acknowledged some terminations and turnover but remains optimistic about the pipeline going forward [31] Question: What rate environment does the NIM outlook assume? - The company is assuming two rate cuts in 2025 and a total of six cuts through the end of 2027, remaining conservative in its outlook [36] Question: Any expense impact from internal control remediation? - Management indicated there will be some professional service expenses as they bring in expertise to accelerate the transition [43] Question: How do you expect overall loan balances to trend going forward? - The company expects modest growth in loan balances over time, focusing on reducing CRE concentration and increasing higher-yielding loans [70]