Wintrust(US:WTFC)2025-10-21 16:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Wintrust reported a record net income of $216 million for Q3 2025, up from over $195 million in the previous quarter, representing an increase of almost 11% quarter over quarter [3] - Net interest income increased by $20 million from the second quarter to $567 million, driven by solid loan and overall balance sheet growth [4] - Total assets grew by $646 million to just under $70 billion [8] - Non-interest income totaled $130.8 million, up approximately $6.7 million compared to the prior quarter [10] - Non-interest expenses decreased slightly to $380 million from $381.5 million in the previous quarter, with improved efficiency ratios [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans reached $52 billion at quarter end, up 11% year to date on an annualized basis, with loan growth of just over $1 billion [4][7] - Commercial real estate loans grew by $327 million, while the Wintrust Life Finance team added $252 million [13] - Non-performing loans decreased from $189 million to $163 million, reflecting strong credit quality [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Wintrust achieved deposit share gains in key markets, ranking third in deposit market share in Illinois, up one position [5] - Deposit growth was $895 million during the quarter, representing a 6% increase over the prior quarter on an annualized basis [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on core deposit growth and maintaining a disciplined approach to underwriting, particularly in the Midwest markets [19] - Wintrust aims to continue generating loan and deposit growth in the mid to high single-digit range while maintaining a stable net interest margin [19] - The company is exploring both organic growth and potential acquisitions, with a preference for organic growth in familiar markets [97] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in maintaining a stable net interest margin despite potential rate cuts, citing effective balance sheet management [32][61] - The overall credit environment is stable, with proactive measures in place to address any emerging credit challenges [17] - Management noted a sense of measured optimism among customers as they approach year-end [17] Other Important Information - The company has consistently grown tangible book value per share since becoming public and is on track to do so again in 2025 [11] - A one-time impact from preferred stock redemption reduced fully diluted net income per common share by $0.28 in Q3 [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the loan growth drivers and any NDFI exposure? - Management highlighted unique market positioning in Chicago, gaining market share from larger banks, and noted that NDFI exposure totals just over $2 billion, primarily in mortgage warehouse lines [25][31] Question: How do you feel about holding the margin in the current range with potential Fed rate cuts? - Management expressed confidence in maintaining the margin around $350, citing a balanced approach to deposits and loans [32] Question: What is the outlook for commercial loan growth? - Management indicated that the decline in commercial loan growth was more about timing than market competition, with consistent opportunities in the pipeline [37] Question: Can you expand on the strategy to play offense in your markets? - Management emphasized the attractiveness of the Midwest markets and the focus on organic growth rather than expanding into faster-growing regions [38][39] Question: Are there any segments or industries where you are pulling back your appetite to lend? - Management stated they are not pulling back from any specific segments but are closely monitoring higher education and healthcare sectors [81] Question: What is the biggest risk to maintaining the NIM? - Management identified irrational competition as a potential risk but noted that the current environment remains rational [83]