Horizon Bancorp(US:HBNC)2025-10-23 13:32Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Horizon Bancorp Inc. reported net interest margin expansion for the eighth consecutive quarter, with an exit run rate in September above 4% [5][16] - The net interest margin increased by 29 basis points to 3.52% for the quarter, with expectations to expand further in Q4 to a range of 4.15% to 4.25% [19][26] - The allowance for credit losses decreased to $50.2 million, representing an allowance to credit loss to loans held for investment of 1.04% [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net loan total for investment decreased to $162 million, primarily due to a $210 million impact from the runoff and sale of indirect auto loans, while commercial loans grew by $58 million [9][10] - The combined relationship-based fee income categories of service charges, card, and mortgage income increased from the previous quarter [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The core relationship balances in the deposit portfolio remained resilient despite planned outflows from higher-rate transactional accounts [14] - The company anticipates a decline in deposit balances in Q4, primarily due to the targeted reduction of high-cost non-relationship balances [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on creating durable returns and sustainable long-term value for shareholders through disciplined capital management and profitable loan growth [6][30] - Horizon Bancorp Inc. is considering M&A opportunities that are accretive to its community banking platform, with a focus on franchises that enhance profitability [37][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in delivering superior community banking performance and capital generation metrics moving into 2026 [6][30] - The company is monitoring economic conditions closely, with future provision expenses driven by anticipated loan growth and credit quality trends [12] Other Important Information - The company executed a balance sheet restructuring that exceeded initial expectations, optimizing securities and loan portfolios [4][6] - Non-interest income was impacted by a $299 million loss in the sale of securities and a $7.7 million loss on the sale of the indirect auto loan portfolio [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the new narrative for Horizon Bancorp Inc.? - Management indicated that the company is positioned to generate capital at a greater pace and will focus on measured deployment strategies for growth, including potential M&A opportunities [35][36] Question: Are there any other potential outlets for capital outside of organic loan growth and M&A? - Management confirmed that M&A will be a focus, targeting franchises that add to the current profitable platform, with potential sizes ranging from $300 million to several billion dollars [38][40] Question: How does the company support its rate-neutral position? - Management explained that while the balance sheet is modestly asset-sensitive, they do not expect significant impacts from rate changes due to their deposit positioning [44][45] Question: What are the trends in credit quality? - Management noted that non-performing loans increased slightly, but overall credit quality remains satisfactory, with no significant areas of stress identified [70][74] Question: What is the outlook for loan growth in 2026? - Management anticipates mid-single-digit growth primarily from organic commercial growth, with no immediate need for significant headcount increases [87][88]