Bridgewater Bank(US:BWB)2025-04-24 14:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted earnings per share of $0.32, excluding merger-related expenses, indicating strong performance in the first quarter [6] - Net interest margin expanded by 19 basis points to 2.51%, driven by lower deposit pricing and higher loan yields [13][8] - First quarter loan balances increased by 16% on an annualized basis, reflecting strong loan demand [7][6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core deposit growth was 8% annualized in the first quarter, contributing to a more offensive approach on loan growth [7][19] - Non-interest income remained elevated at $2.1 million, including $325,000 from investment advisory fees related to the recent acquisition [17] - The multifamily loan portfolio, particularly in affordable housing, grew to nearly $600 million, with a 13% increase over the past year [25][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted favorable market trends in The Twin Cities, with improved absorption levels in the multifamily sector [27] - The loan pipeline is at its highest level since 2022, indicating strong future loan growth potential [21][22] - Economic uncertainty and market volatility regarding tariffs were highlighted as potential headwinds for client projects [22][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to gain market share amidst ongoing market disruptions in the Twin Cities, focusing on affordable housing and commercial real estate [38][11] - Technology initiatives include upgrading online banking platforms and systems conversion from recent acquisitions [38] - The company is actively monitoring competition in the commercial real estate sector, noting increased activity from previously sidelined players [42][41] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving mid to high single-digit loan growth for 2025, despite potential economic uncertainties [35][34] - The company remains focused on net interest income growth, with expectations for continued margin expansion [35][36] - Management acknowledged the impact of recent market volatility but emphasized the importance of maintaining strong client relationships [10][11] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately $600,000 of common stock during the quarter, with $14.7 million remaining under the current share repurchase authorization [33] - Non-performing assets increased to 0.2% of loans, primarily due to one central business district office loan being moved to non-accrual [30][29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Changes in competition in the CRE sector - Management noted increased activity from smaller players in the market, tightening spreads slightly [42] Question: Details on margin and deposit costs - The March average margin was reported at 2.53%, with ongoing efforts to lower deposit costs [46][45] Question: Loan growth distribution throughout the quarter - Loan growth was relatively steady across the quarter, with a slight bias towards the back half [49] Question: Timeline for the workout of a non-accrual loan - The workout process for the non-accrual loan is expected to be longer-term, with the borrower engaged in a workout plan [51] Question: M&A activity and potential future deals - Management is in discussions with owners of smaller franchises in the Twin Cities but indicated no imminent deals [65]