Financial Institutions(FISI) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income available to common shareholders of $19.6 million or $0.96 per diluted share for Q4 2025, and $73.4 million or $3.61 per diluted share for the full year [4] - Return on average assets was 120 basis points for the year, while return on average equity was 12.38%, both exceeding annual guidance [4] - The efficiency ratio for the year was 58% [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans increased by 1.5% in Q4 and 4% year-over-year to $4.66 billion, driven by strong demand in commercial lending [6] - Commercial business loans were down modestly on a linked-quarter basis but up 11% year-over-year [6] - Residential lending grew 1% during both the 3 and 12 months ended December 31, 2025 [8] - Consumer indirect loans decreased by 3.7% in Q4 and 4.5% for the year to $807 million [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Year-end total deposits were $5.21 billion, down 2.8% from September 30, driven by seasonal public deposit outflows [10] - Deposits were up 2% year-over-year despite the wind down of the banking-as-a-service line of business [10] - The company expects low single-digit deposit growth year-over-year amid a competitive landscape [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic credit discipline growth, prudent expense management, and building a strong capital position to deliver long-term value to shareholders [25] - The company aims to drive sustainable growth through its community bank and wealth management firm, leveraging its size and market position [26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the growth potential of Upstate New York markets, particularly with the recent investment by Micron Technology [7] - The company anticipates higher performance for full year 2026, targeting a return on average assets of at least 122 basis points and an efficiency ratio below 58% [13][22] Other Important Information - The company completed an $80 million subordinated debt offering with a fixed rate of 6.5% [5] - The company reported a BBB- rating from Kroll with a stable outlook, reflecting improved profitability and capital position [6] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin expectations for the year - Management indicated that margins were impacted by the sub debt raise and expect incremental expansion throughout the year [29] Question: Loan growth outlook - Management confirmed intentional management of the indirect auto portfolio and expressed confidence in both C&I and CRE growth prospects [33][34] Question: Share buyback plans - Management noted that share buybacks remain an attractive capital allocation option, with a focus on maintaining Common Equity Tier 1 above 11% [37] Question: Deposit growth initiatives - Management emphasized the focus on core deposit acquisition and the success of treasury management offerings in driving commercial deposit growth [46][48]