Atlantic Union Bankshares (US:AUB)2025-07-24 14:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The reported net income available to common shareholders was $16.8 million, with earnings per common share at $0.12. Adjusted operating earnings were $135.1 million or $0.95 per common share, resulting in an adjusted operating return on tangible common equity of 23.8% and an adjusted operating return on assets of 1.46% [18][19] - The CET1 capital ratio was 9.8%, and the loan to deposit ratio was approximately 88% at quarter end [9][24] - The tax equivalent net interest margin expanded by 38 basis points to 3.83%, driven by the addition of Sandy Spring acquired loans and deposits [19][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The total loan portfolio fair value mark discount was $789.7 million, with loans held for investment totaling $27.3 billion, an increase of $8.9 billion from the prior quarter [16][24] - Non-interest income increased by $52.3 million to $81.5 million, primarily due to gains from the sale of commercial real estate loans and equity interest [20][21] - Reported non-interest expense increased by $145.5 million to $279.7 million, driven by merger-related costs and the full quarter impact of the Sandy Spring acquisition [22][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Approximately 23% of total loans are in the Washington Metro Area, with the remaining 77% across other regions [12] - The unemployment rate in Maryland was reported at 3.3%, while Virginia's rate was 3.5%, indicating a robust economic environment [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth opportunities in North Carolina, planning to open 10 new branches starting in 2026 [31][32] - The acquisition of Sandy Spring Bank is seen as a strategic move to enhance market presence in Maryland and Virginia, with a goal to leverage this for further growth [30][29] - The company aims to maintain a mid-40s efficiency ratio while investing in technology and organic growth initiatives [40][41] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the integration of Sandy Spring and the potential for sustainable growth, despite economic uncertainties [6][8] - The company anticipates solid loan growth in the second half of the year, supported by a robust loan pipeline [10][66] - The outlook for net charge-offs has been lowered to between 15 and 20 basis points for the full year, reflecting confidence in asset quality [12][25] Other Important Information - The company plans to host an Analyst Day in December to share a new three-year strategic plan [28] - The effective tax rate for the second quarter was a negative 13.2%, with an expected increase to 21% to 22% for the full year [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: How should we think about the pro forma growth outlook on a larger balance sheet and plans for The Carolinas? - Management indicated a strong pipeline and record levels of loan growth, particularly in The Carolinas, with optimism for the second half of the year [37][39] Question: What is the expense outlook beyond what has been provided for this year? - The company is targeting a mid-40s efficiency ratio, inclusive of investments in The Carolinas [40][41] Question: How are capital levels being managed, and is there interest in exploring the reversal of the CECL double count? - The CET1 ratio is expected to increase, with plans to evaluate the CECL double count impact and consider share repurchases in the future [43][46] Question: What is the credit quality perspective on the legacy Atlantic Union basis? - The overall credit quality remains stable, with the increase in NPAs attributed to the Sandy Spring portfolio [50][52] Question: What opportunities are there for growth in the DC market? - Management emphasized the focus on Maryland and Northern Virginia, with confidence in the existing team and capabilities to drive growth [95][100]