National Bank (US:NBHC)2026-01-28 17:02Financial 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 end of 2025 [5][9] - The net interest margin for the fourth quarter was 3.97%, with a full-year net interest margin of 3.94% [7][8] - Fourth quarter net income, excluding one-time items, was $22.7 million or $0.60 per diluted share, while full-year adjusted net income was $117.6 million or $3.06 per diluted share [9][12] 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 [24] - The commercial loan portfolio grew nearly 8% annualized, while there was a decline in commercial real estate loan balances due to accelerated payoffs [24][25] - The company expects loan growth of approximately 10% in 2026, starting with a combined loan portfolio of about $9.4 billion [10][37] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The non-performing asset ratio improved by 11 basis points to 36 basis points of total loans by the end of 2025 [11] - The criticized loan ratio improved by 73 basis points during the year, indicating better asset quality [12] - The company is focusing on expanding its presence in Texas and resort markets, which are expected to drive growth [20][49] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enter 2026 with a clean slate and a focus on profitable growth following the Vista Bank acquisition [6][10] - The strategy includes enhancing service offerings such as wealth management and trust services, and expanding mortgage products [19] - The company is committed to maintaining a loan-to-deposit ratio of approximately 90% and holding about 15% of total assets in cash and investments [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, projecting earnings exceeding $1 per share in Q4 2026 and over $4 per share in 2027 [17] - The management acknowledged challenges in 2025 but emphasized a strong focus on credit quality and prudent growth strategies for 2026 [43][80] - The integration of Vista Bank is expected to enhance the company's growth profile and market presence [19][21] Other Important Information - The company incurred $4.1 million in after-tax acquisition costs and a $2.6 million after-tax loss on the strategic sale of investment securities in Q4 2025 [8][12] - Non-interest income for the fourth quarter was $14.4 million, with projections for total non-interest income in 2026 to be between $75 million and $80 million [13] - The effective tax rate for 2025 was 18%, with an expected increase to approximately 20% for 2026 due to changes in income mix [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Confirmation of loan growth and margin guidance - Management confirmed a projected 10% loan growth in 2026, a margin near 4%, and earnings over $1 in Q4 2026 and over $4 in 2027 [37] Question: 2UniFi revenue and expense guidance - The projected revenue for 2UniFi in 2026 is $2 million to $4 million, with expenses held flat at $22 million [39][55] Question: Credit quality and charge-offs - Management addressed that the charge-offs were due to a few problem loans and emphasized a clean slate for 2026 [43][80] Question: Growth drivers in Texas and resort markets - Management highlighted strong loan production and growth potential in Texas and resort markets, supported by the Vista acquisition [46][49] Question: Margin performance and interest reversals - Management clarified that there were no interest reversals in Q4 and that the margin was managed well despite rate cuts [52][53] Question: Partnership developments for 2UniFi - Management acknowledged delays in partnership discussions but emphasized a strong focus on client activation and scaling the business [66][67]