Preferred Bank(US:PFBC)2025-04-25 19:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Preferred Bank reported a net income of $30 million or $2.23 per share for the first quarter of 2025, impacted by a significant reversal of interest income due to elevated non-performing loans [5] - The net interest margin for the quarter was reported at 3.75%, down from 4.06% in the previous quarter, with an internal estimate suggesting it would have been around 4.06% without the reversal effect [7] - Total classified loans decreased by $30 million or approximately 20% from the previous quarter [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-performing loans totaled $71 million at quarter end, with $66 million related to two specific credits [5] - The bank experienced a negative loan growth of $6 million, approximately 0.1% of the total loan portfolio, while deposits increased by 2.6% on a linked quarter basis [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The bank is closely monitoring its trade finance segment, which comprises over $200 million of its loan portfolio, due to uncertainties arising from the ongoing tariff situation [8] - Management noted that loan demand is not expected to improve significantly due to the unpredictability of the tariff war, which is affecting supply chains and costs [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The bank is focusing on understanding the implications of the tariff situation on its customers and is adjusting its loan underwriting practices accordingly [45][49] - Management emphasized the importance of being cautious and diligent in monitoring the loan portfolio, especially in light of potential economic impacts from tariffs [28][58] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed concerns about the potential impact of tariffs on property values and customer operations, indicating a "wait and see" approach from many clients [29] - The bank is prepared to continue growing its loan portfolio but acknowledges the challenges posed by the current economic environment [28] Other Important Information - The bank has a buyback program with $65 million available, having repurchased 532,000 shares in the first 24 days of April [23] - Management indicated that the normalized expense run rate for the next couple of quarters is expected to be between $21.5 million and $22 million [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin outlook excluding reversals - Management indicated that the margin for the quarter, excluding nonaccrual reversals, would have been 3.94%, which is better than anticipated [13] Question: Details on non-performing loans - One of the non-performing loans is expected to close soon at par, while the other is in bankruptcy court with a good appraisal value supporting the credit [20][21] Question: Expense run rate for Q2 - The normalized expense run rate is expected to be around $21.5 million to $22 million for the next couple of quarters [22] Question: Loan interest revenue decline - The decline in loan interest revenue was attributed to interest reversals and the impact of rate cuts from the previous year [38][40] Question: Positioning the bank amid economic uncertainty - Management is focusing on understanding customer reactions to the tariff situation and adjusting lending practices accordingly [45][49]