National Bank (NBHC) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 10% growth in tangible book value per share and a CET1 capital ratio of 14.89% for the year [4] - The net interest income margin for the fourth quarter was 3.97%, with a full-year net interest margin of 3.94% [6][10] - Fourth quarter net income was $22.7 million, or $0.60 per diluted share, while full-year adjusted net income totaled $117.6 million, or $3.06 per diluted share [7][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company originated $591 million in total loans during the fourth quarter, with $429 million coming from commercial loan originations, marking a record for the company [22] - The loan portfolio at the end of the year was approximately $9.4 billion, with projected loan growth of about 10% for 2026 [9] - Non-interest income for the fourth quarter was $14.4 million, while full-year non-interest income is projected to be between $75 million and $80 million for 2026 [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The non-performing asset ratio improved by 11 basis points to 36 basis points of total loans by year-end [10] - The criticized loan ratio improved by 73 basis points during the year [10] - The company expects to maintain a loan-to-deposit ratio of approximately 90% [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on profitable growth following the acquisition of Vista Bank, which is expected to enhance its service offerings and market presence [5][18] - The strategic sale of securities and addressing problem loans were part of the company's efforts to enter 2026 with a clean slate [5] - The company is committed to expanding its services, including wealth management and enhanced treasury management offerings [18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about entering 2026 with strong growth potential, driven by the Vista acquisition and a focus on client activation [25][26] - The company anticipates a strong economic environment in Texas and various resort markets, which are expected to provide growth opportunities [19] - Management expects to deliver earnings exceeding $1 per share in the fourth quarter of 2026 and full-year earnings exceeding $4 per share in 2027 [15] Other Important Information - The company completed the initial phase of its 2UniFi project, which aims to revolutionize small business banking [27][29] - The effective tax rate for 2025 was 18%, with an expected increase to approximately 20% for 2026 due to the integration of Vista [14] - The company plans to hold 15% of total assets in cash and investments [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Confirmation of loan growth and margin expectations - Management confirmed a projected 10% loan growth in 2026, a margin near 4%, and earnings over $1 in the fourth quarter of 2026 [35] Question: 2UniFi revenue and expense guidance - Management projected $2 million to $4 million in 2UniFi revenue for 2026, with expenses held flat at $22 million [36] Question: Credit quality and charge-offs - Management addressed that the charge-offs were due to specific problem loans and expressed confidence in improving credit metrics in 2026 [41] Question: Growth drivers for 2026 - Management indicated that growth would be driven by strong production in Texas and resort markets, with a focus on commercial loans [44][46] Question: Margin performance and deposit costs - Management clarified that the December margin was 3.97%, with a lag in deposit pricing compared to asset repricing [50][62] Question: Partnership developments for 2UniFi - Management acknowledged delays in finalizing a partnership for 2UniFi but emphasized a strong focus on client activation and scaling the business [63] Question: Loan growth confidence and payoffs - Management expressed confidence in achieving 10% loan growth in 2026, with reduced scheduled maturities compared to the previous year [79]