Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is tracking to be in the upper half of the production guidance range of 35-39 million tons for the full year, potentially reaching the upper quartile [4] - Cash operating costs were AUD 93 per ton at the half-year, consistent with the guidance range of AUD 89–AUD 97 per ton [4][16] - The company ended the quarter with a cash balance of $1.8 billion after paying an interim dividend of approximately $82 million [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company produced 15.8 million tons of ROM coal, translating to 12.3 million tons of salable coal, with an attributable share of 9.3 million tons, all in line with forecasts [7][9] - Attributable sales volume was 10.7 million tons, which was 31% higher than the June quarter, recovering from previous delays [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International coal prices remained under pressure, with average realized prices for thermal coal at AUD 130 per ton and metallurgical coal at AUD 195 per ton [15] - The average prices for the indices improved marginally, with the API 5 index averaging $69 per ton and the Global Coal Newcastle index averaging $109 per ton [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maximize operational performance and drive value generation for shareholders, focusing on maintaining controllable cost discipline [3][4] - The company is exploring opportunities for growth, particularly during cyclical downturns, while maintaining a strong financial position [42] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged external and temporary cost pressures affecting cash operating costs but remains optimistic about maintaining costs within the guidance range [4][16] - The company is positioned well for an upswing in coal prices, with a strong operational performance and disciplined cost control [62] Other Important Information - The company has achieved a downward trend in total recordable injury frequency rate, which was 5.71% at the end of September, below the industry average [6] - The company is maintaining a strong financial position with no interest-bearing debt and good access to debt markets [62] Q&A Session Summary Question: Breakdown of cash costs and transportation costs - The CFO indicated that cash operating costs remain consistent, with some savings from diesel, but transportation costs are impacted by wet weather and port usage [20][22] Question: Inventory levels and sales recovery - The company reported that sales volumes were recovered in Q3 due to previous delays, and they are in a comfortable position regarding unsold inventory [28] Question: Capital expenditure for the third quarter - The CFO confirmed that capital expenditure is consistent with guidance and is primarily driven by fleet upgrades and heavy equipment [33] Question: Changes in production cost expectations - Management noted that while they previously hoped to move below the midpoint of the cost guidance, they now expect to remain around the midpoint due to external pressures [44] Question: Outlook on Queensland royalties - The CFO stated that there are no anticipated changes to Queensland royalties at this time [57] Question: Potential mergers and acquisitions - Management reiterated that they do not comment on specific scenarios but are exploring opportunities in the context of the current market conditions [55][56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a cash balance of $1.8 billion at the end of the quarter, following an interim dividend payment of approximately $82 million, with no interest-bearing debt remaining [15][36] - Cash operating costs were A$93 per ton, consistent with the previous year, and the company aims to maintain costs around the midpoint of the A$89–97 per ton guidance range for the full year [4][15][40] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company produced 15.8 million tonnes of ROM coal, translating to 12.3 million tonnes of salable coal, with an attributable share of 9.3 million tonnes, all in line with forecasts [6][9] - Attributable sales volume increased by 31% compared to the June quarter, reaching 10.7 million tonnes, recovering from previous delays due to disruptions at the Port of Newcastle [5][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International coal prices remained under pressure, with average realized prices for thermal coal at A$130 per ton and metallurgical coal at A$195 per ton, resulting in an overall average realized sales price of A$140 per ton, slightly down from A$142 per ton in the prior quarter [14][46] - The API 5 index averaged $69 per ton, and the Global Coal Newcastle index averaged $109 per ton during the quarter, with some improvement noted in the indices [13][14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maximizing operational performance and driving value generation for shareholders, with expectations to deliver production in the upper half of the guidance range for the year [3][55] - The management emphasized maintaining cost discipline and operational efficiency as a competitive advantage, particularly in a challenging market environment [55] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management acknowledged external and temporary cost pressures affecting the sector, particularly through the Port of Newcastle, but remains optimistic about returning to normal operating conditions [4][40] - There is cautious optimism regarding the coal market, with indications that prices may have reached cyclical lows, and the company is well-positioned for potential upswing in coal prices [55] Other Important Information - The company has a strong financial position with $1.8 billion in cash and good access to debt markets, allowing for the evaluation of growth opportunities [55] - The company is actively assessing potential mergers and acquisitions, particularly during the cyclical downturn, while maintaining a disciplined approach to capital allocation [36][38] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the breakdown of cash costs looking, particularly transportation costs? - The CFO indicated that cash operating costs remain consistent, with some savings from diesel, but transportation costs have seen temporary increases due to wet weather and port issues [18][20] Question: What is the current inventory situation and sales outlook? - The company reported a comfortable sales position, having recovered delayed sales volumes from Q2, and is maintaining a focus on logistics to ensure timely deliveries [24][25] Question: What is the outlook for capital expenditure? - The company confirmed that capital expenditure is on track within the guidance range of A$750 to A$900 million, primarily driven by fleet upgrades and heavy equipment investments [28][51] Question: What is the expected profit for the upcoming quarter? - The company does not provide profit forecasts but maintains guidance on production, cost, and capital expenditure ranges [43] Question: Any updates on Queensland royalties? - The company does not anticipate changes to Queensland royalties at this time [50]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a cash balance of AUD 1,800,000,000 at the end of the quarter, following the payment of an interim dividend of approximately AUD 82,000,000, and remains free of interest-bearing debts [20][21][75] - Cash operating costs were AUD 93 per tonne at the half-year mark, which is in the middle of the guidance range of AUD 89 to AUD 97 per tonne [5][20] - The company is tracking to be in the upper half of its production guidance range of 35,000,000 to 39,000,000 tonnes for the full year [4][75] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company produced 15,800,000 tonnes of ROM coal, translating to 12,300,000 tonnes of saleable coal, with an attributable share of 9,300,000 tonnes, all in line with forecasts [7][8][12] - Saleable coal production increased by 14% compared to the previous quarter, despite wet weather disruptions [11][12] - Attributable sales volume was 10,700,000 tonnes, which is 1% higher than the previous quarter [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International coal prices remained under pressure, with average realized prices for thermal coal at AUD 130 per tonne and metallurgical coal at AUD 195 per tonne [18] - The average overall realized sales price was AUD 140 per tonne, slightly down from AUD 142 per tonne in the prior quarter [18] - Total global seaborne trade is down 11% year-to-date, with Australian exports down 9% due to poor geological conditions [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maximize operational performance and drive value generation for shareholders, focusing on maintaining controllable cost discipline [4][75] - The management is optimistic about the potential for recovery in coal prices, emphasizing the company's strong financial position and ability to explore opportunities during cyclical downturns [49][75] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong operational performance and cost control, which is seen as a competitive advantage [74][75] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged external and temporary cost pressures affecting cash operating costs but expects to deliver unit costs around the midpoint of the guidance range for the full year [5][20] - There is cautious optimism regarding the coal market, with indications that prices may have reached cyclical lows [18][75] - The company is closely monitoring the impact of weather conditions and logistics on sales and production [14][41] Other Important Information - The company has a strong balance sheet and good access to debt markets, allowing for the evaluation of potential growth opportunities [75] - The management highlighted the importance of maintaining a low-risk sales position and the ability to take advantage of spot opportunities in the market [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the breakdown of cash costs looking, particularly transportation costs? - The CFO noted that transportation costs are largely fixed and will be supported by increased production, but temporary increased costs from the Port of Newcastle are expected due to weather disruptions [23][26][27] Question: What is the current inventory situation and outlook for sales recovery? - The Executive General Manager of Marketing and Logistics stated that the company is in a comfortable low-risk scenario regarding sales and is focused on recovering delayed sales volumes from the previous quarter [32] Question: What is the capital expenditure incurred in the third quarter? - The CFO confirmed that capital expenditure is consistent with guidance and is primarily driven by fleet upgrades and heavy equipment investments [36][37] Question: Is there any change in the view on per tonne production costs? - Management acknowledged that while there were hopes to move below the midpoint of the cost guidance, current expectations are to remain around the midpoint due to external pressures [51][52] Question: What is the outlook on Queensland royalties? - Management indicated that there are no anticipated changes to Queensland royalties at this time [68] Question: What is the expected profit for the upcoming quarter? - The company does not provide profit forecasts but offers guidance on production, cost, and capital expenditure ranges [58] Question: What are the implications of potential mergers and acquisitions? - Management reiterated that they do not comment on specific scenarios but emphasized the company's strong financial position to explore opportunities [66][67]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The net interest margin expanded by 11 basis points to 3.28% [5][10] - Customer fees, excluding net credit valuation adjustment, grew by $10 million [5] - Adjusted expenses declined by $1 million, leading to an improved efficiency ratio of 59.6% [5] - Diluted earnings per share was $1.48, down from $1.63 in the prior period [7] - The provision for credit loss was recorded at $49 million, with net charge-offs of $56 million, or 37 basis points of loans on an annualized basis [6][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net interest income increased by $52 million, or 8%, compared to the third quarter of 2024 [9] - Customer-related non-interest income was $163 million, slightly down from $164 million in the prior period [11] - Adjusted customer-related non-interest income, excluding net CVA, was $174 million, representing a 6% increase versus the second quarter [11] - Average loans increased by 2.1% annualized over the previous quarter [13] - Average deposit balances were relatively flat, with a notable 11.5% reduction in average brokered deposits [13][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average non-interest-bearing deposits grew by approximately $192 million, or 0.8% compared to the prior quarter [14] - Total borrowings declined by $1.8 billion during the quarter [15] - Non-performing assets remained low at 0.54% of loans and other real estate owned [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue producing positive operating leverage as revenue growth outpaces non-interest expense growth [19] - There is a focus on enhancing capital markets offerings, including real estate capital markets and investment banking advisory fees [11] - The company is open to M&A opportunities but prioritizes smaller deals that enhance market density [58] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence that the credit issues faced are isolated incidents and emphasized a strong credit history [24][96] - The outlook for net interest income is moderately increasing, supported by continued growth in loans and deposits [9][10] - Management expects to maintain a stable risk appetite despite recent credit challenges [96] Other Important Information - The common equity tier one ratio was reported at 11.3%, indicating a strong capital position [18] - The company has seen a 17% growth in tangible book value per share compared to the prior year [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the isolated incident related to the charge-offs? - Management confirmed that the incident is isolated and has conducted a thorough review of the portfolio, finding no similar issues [22][23] Question: What is the outlook for net interest income? - The guidance includes expectations for fixed-rate asset repricing and loan growth, with a potential yield pickup of 2-3 basis points [31][32] Question: How has loan demand changed recently? - Loan spreads have improved slightly, and while there was some runoff in CNI, production has been up in most months this year [78][81] Question: What is the company's approach to M&A? - The company is open to smaller deals that enhance market presence but is not under pressure to pursue acquisitions [58][59] Question: How does the company view the NDFI portfolio? - Management believes that concerns regarding the NDFI portfolio are somewhat overblown, highlighting the safety of certain categories like capital call lines [106]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The third quarter reflected continued momentum in core earnings with net interest margin expanding by 11 basis points to 3.28% [5] - Customer fees, excluding net credit valuation adjustment, grew by $10 million, and adjusted expenses declined by $1 million, improving the efficiency ratio to 59.6% [5] - Diluted earnings per share was $1.48 compared to $1.63 in the prior period and $1.37 in the year-ago period [7] - Net interest income increased by $52 million, or 8%, relative to the third quarter of 2024 [9] - Adjusted non-interest income was $174 million for the quarter, representing a 6% increase versus the second quarter and an 8% increase versus the year-ago quarter [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average loans increased by 2.1% annualized over the previous quarter and 3.6% over the year-ago period [13] - Customer-related non-interest income was $163 million for the quarter, with capital market fees, excluding net CVA, increasing by 25% compared to the prior year period [11] - Adjusted expenses of $520 million decreased by $1 million versus the prior quarter and increased by 4% versus the year-ago period [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average non-interest-bearing deposits grew approximately $192 million, or 0.8% compared to the prior quarter [14] - Total borrowings declined by $1.8 billion during the quarter, with short-term FHLB advances decreasing by $2.3 billion [15] - Non-performing assets remained relatively low at 0.54% of loans and other real estate owned compared to 0.51% in the prior quarter [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company expects to continue producing positive operating leverage as revenue growth outpaces non-interest expense growth [19] - The outlook for customer-related fee income in the third quarter of 2026 is moderately increasing relative to the third quarter of 2025, driven by increased customer activity and new client acquisitions [12] - The company is open to M&A opportunities but is not feeling compelled to pursue any deals at this time [58] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence that the recent credit issues are isolated incidents and emphasized a strong credit history [24][25] - The company anticipates continued growth in loans and deposits, supported by fixed asset repricing and favorable shifts in the composition of average interest-earning assets [9] - Management noted that the current economic environment requires a thoughtful approach to lending, particularly in commercial real estate [66] Other Important Information - The company recorded a $49 million provision for credit loss, with net charge-offs in the quarter being $56 million, or 37 basis points of loans on an annualized basis [6][16] - The common equity tier one ratio this quarter was 11.3%, indicating a strong capital position [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the isolated incident related to the charge this quarter? - Management confirmed that the incident is isolated and that a thorough internal review has not revealed similar issues [23][24] Question: How much fixed-rate asset repricing is factored into the NII guide outlook? - The CFO indicated that there is potential for two to three basis points on earning asset yields to play through, which is embedded in the guidance [32] Question: What is the current risk appetite and how might it evolve? - Management stated that underwriting practices will remain consistent and that the recent credit issues will not impact loan growth [95] Question: How has loan demand changed over the last 90 days? - Loan spreads have improved slightly, and while there has been some muted growth, the company is prepared for increased loan growth in the future [77] Question: What does deregulation mean for the company? - Management welcomed a return to solid regulation and emphasized that it would not materially change how the company operates [87]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The third quarter reflected continued momentum in core earnings with net interest margin expanding by 11 basis points to 3.28% [4] - Customer fees, excluding net credit valuation adjustment, grew by $10 million, while adjusted expenses declined by $1 million, leading to an improved efficiency ratio of 59.6% [4] - Average loans and customer deposits increased by annualized rates of 2.1% and 3.1% respectively compared to the prior quarter [4] - Diluted earnings per share was $1.48 compared to $1.63 in the prior period and $1.37 in the year-ago period [5][6] - Adjusted non-interest income was $174 million for the quarter, representing a 6% increase versus the second quarter and an 8% increase versus the year-ago quarter [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net interest income increased by $52 million, or 8%, relative to the third quarter of 2024, benefiting from fixed asset repricing and favorable shifts in the composition of average interest-earning assets [7][8] - Customer-related non-interest income was $163 million for the quarter, slightly down from $164 million in the prior period but up from $158 million one year ago [10] - Capital market fees, excluding net CVA, increased by 25% compared to the prior year period, driven by higher loan syndications and customer swap fee revenue [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average loans increased by 2.1% annualized over the previous quarter and 3.6% over the year-ago period [12] - Average non-interest-bearing deposits grew approximately $192 million, or 0.8% compared to the prior quarter [13] - Total borrowings declined by $1.8 billion during the quarter, with short-term FHLB advances decreasing by $2.3 billion [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company expects to continue producing positive operating leverage as revenue growth outpaces non-interest expense growth [19] - The outlook for customer-related fee income in the third quarter of 2026 is moderately increasing relative to the third quarter of 2025, driven by increased customer activity and new client acquisitions [11] - The company is focused on maintaining a strong capital position and is open to M&A opportunities, particularly smaller deals that enhance market density [50][51] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence that the recent credit issues are isolated incidents and emphasized the strength of their credit history [22][24] - The company anticipates continued loan growth driven by commercial loans, despite some recent paydowns and payoffs [56][59] - Management noted that the current regulatory environment is shifting towards a focus on solid regulation, which they view positively [72][74] Other Important Information - The company recorded a $49 million provision for credit loss, with net charge-offs in the quarter at $56 million, or 37 basis points of loans on an annualized basis [4][16] - The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of loans remains stable at 1.2% [17] - The common equity tier one ratio this quarter was 11.3%, indicating a strong capital position [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the isolated incident regarding the charge this quarter? - Management reviewed the portfolio and believes it is an isolated incident, with no similar loans found [22][23] Question: How much fixed-rate asset repricing is factored into the NII guide outlook? - The guidance includes expectations for fixed-rate loans and securities, with potential yield increases embedded [27][28] Question: What is the outlook for operating leverage? - Management expects positive operating leverage but did not provide a specific range at this time [34][35] Question: How has loan demand changed over the last 90 days? - Loan spreads have improved slightly, and production has been up in most months this year compared to 2024 [65][66] Question: What is the company's current risk appetite? - The company will continue its historical underwriting practices, and the recent credit issues will not impact loan growth [80][81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The third quarter reflected continued momentum in core earnings with net interest margin expanding by 11 basis points to 3.28% compared to the prior quarter [5] - Customer fees, excluding net credit valuation adjustment, grew by $10 million, while adjusted expenses declined by $1 million, leading to an improved efficiency ratio of 59.6% [5] - Diluted earnings per share was $1.48, down from $1.63 in the prior period, impacted by a $0.06 per share negative effect from net credit valuation adjustment [7] - The provision for credit loss was recorded at $49 million, with net charge-offs of $56 million or 37 basis points of loans on an annualized basis [6][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net interest income increased by $52 million or 8% compared to Q3 2024, benefiting from fixed asset repricing and favorable shifts in the composition of average interest-earning assets [9] - Customer-related non-interest income was $163 million for the quarter, slightly down from $164 million in the prior period, but adjusted customer-related non-interest income increased by 6% compared to the second quarter [12][13] - Average loans decreased by 2.1% annualized over the previous quarter, while average non-interest-bearing deposits grew by approximately $192 million or 0.8% compared to the prior quarter [15][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total borrowings declined by $1.8 billion during the quarter, with short-term FHLB advances decreasing by $2.3 billion [19] - The cost of total deposits declined sequentially by one basis point to 1.67% [18] - Non-performing assets remained low at 0.54% of loans and other real estate owned, compared to 0.51% in the prior quarter [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company expects to continue producing positive operating leverage as revenue growth outpaces non-interest expense growth [24] - The outlook for net interest income for 2026 is moderately increasing relative to 2025, supported by continued earnings asset remix and growth in loans and deposits [11] - The company is focused on maintaining a strong credit quality and has established a full reserve against certain loans, viewing recent charge-offs as isolated incidents [6][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the credit quality and indicated that the recent charge-offs were isolated incidents, with no further exposure related to the borrowers involved [30][31] - The company anticipates moderate loan growth driven by commercial loans, despite some recent reductions in C&I classified levels [15][76] - Management noted that the current economic environment presents both challenges and opportunities, with a focus on strategic investments in revenue-generating businesses [14][93] Other Important Information - The common equity Tier one ratio was reported at 11.3%, indicating a strong capital position [23] - The company has been actively pursuing new products and marketing strategies to enhance loan growth and customer acquisition [73][93] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the isolated incident related to the charge-offs? - Management confirmed that the charge-offs were an isolated incident and that a thorough review of the portfolio did not reveal similar issues [29][30] Question: What is the outlook for net interest income? - The company expects a slight to moderate increase in net interest income, factoring in fixed asset repricing and loan growth [11][39] Question: How is loan demand changing? - Loan spreads have improved slightly, and while there has been some runoff in C&I, production remains strong [88][90] Question: What is the company's risk appetite following recent events? - Management stated that the risk appetite remains unchanged and that they will continue to underwrite loans as they have historically [107] Question: How does the company view the NDFI portfolio? - Management believes that concerns regarding the NDFI portfolio are somewhat overblown, emphasizing the safety of certain categories within it [120]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $65.6 million and diluted earnings per share of $1.20, representing an 18% increase from the same quarter last year [9][10] - Pre-provision net revenue was $88.3 million, with a return on average assets of 1.47% and a return on common equity of 14.9% [9][10] - The book value grew by an annualized 14% from the previous quarter, ending at $32.37 per share [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was below expectations, with loan paybacks increasing by $500 million over the prior two quarters [3][4] - The loan pipeline increased by over 10% in October compared to September and is 40% higher than a year ago [3][4] - Non-performing assets rose to $930 million, an increase of approximately $96 million during the quarter [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a reduction in high-cost municipal deposits, offset by large corporate deposit inflows [4][5] - All markets are now profitable, a first for the company since its inception [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to manage down total deposit costs as the Federal Reserve reduces the Fed Funds rate [4][5] - There is a focus on organic loan and deposit growth, with competitive and profitable pricing strategies [14] - The company is exploring opportunities in Texas, emphasizing the importance of local relationships in that market [48] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that lending activity softened in the third quarter but has been robust moving into the fourth quarter [7] - The company expects continued margin expansion due to anticipated rate cuts by the Federal Reserve [11][26] - Management expressed confidence in resolving several material credits in the near future [8] Other Important Information - The company recognized a loss of $7.8 million on the sale of bonds and invested in a solar tax credit, benefiting from a reduced tax provision [9][10] - The efficiency ratio improved from 36.90% in the third quarter of 2024 to 35.22% in the third quarter of 2025 [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: What pushed the borrower to non-performing status? - Management indicated that substantial additional collateral was taken, and a large payment expected before quarter-end did not materialize, leading to the non-accrual status [21] Question: What is the loan-to-value on the loans? - The loan-to-value is currently below one-to-one, with adequate security to cover the loans [23] Question: What is the expectation for margin improvement? - Management expects a 7 to 10 basis points improvement in margin each quarter, with a normalized spot rate for September at 3.28% [25][47] Question: Where is loan demand currently? - Loan demand is described as "okay," with a desire for more commercial and industrial loans rather than commercial real estate [31] Question: What is the effective tax rate going forward? - The effective tax rate is expected to remain around 18.9% for the year, with a goal to keep it below 20% [40]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $65.6 million and diluted earnings per share of $1.20, representing an 18% increase from the same quarter last year [9] - Pre-provision net revenue was $88.3 million, with a return on average assets of 1.47% and a return on common equity of 14.9% [9] - The book value grew by an annualized 14% from the previous quarter, ending at $32.37 per share [10] - Net interest income for the quarter was $133.4 million, with a normalized net interest margin of 3.19% [10][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was below expectations, with loan paybacks increasing by $500 million over the prior two quarters [3] - The loan pipeline increased by over 10% in October compared to September and is 40% higher than a year ago [3][4] - Non-performing assets rose to $930 million, an increase of approximately $96 million during the quarter [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a reduction in high-cost municipal deposits, offset by large corporate deposit inflows [4] - All markets are now profitable, a first since the company's inception [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to manage down total deposit costs as the Federal Reserve reduces the Fed Funds rate [4] - Focus on organic loan and deposit growth while maintaining competitive pricing [14] - The company is exploring opportunities in Texas, emphasizing the importance of local relationships [43] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that lending activity softened in Q3 but has been robust moving into Q4 [6] - The company expects continued margin expansion due to anticipated Federal Reserve rate cuts [11][26] - Management expressed confidence in resolving non-performing loans and maintaining credit quality [8][18] Other Important Information - The company recognized a loss of $7.8 million on the sale of bonds and invested in a solar tax credit, benefiting from a reduced tax provision [9][15] - The company has a total NDFI exposure of $71 million, which is less than 1% of the loan portfolio, indicating a cautious approach to risk [16][17] Q&A Session Summary Question: What pushed the borrower to non-performing status? - Management indicated that substantial additional collateral was taken, and a large payment expected did not materialize, leading to the non-accrual status [21] Question: What is the loan-to-value on the loans? - The loan-to-value is believed to be below one-to-one, with adequate security to cover the loans [23] Question: What is the expected margin improvement with upcoming Federal Reserve cuts? - Management expects a 7 to 10 basis points improvement in margin each quarter, with current normalized rates at 3.28% [25][41] Question: Are there new markets of interest for the company? - The company is particularly interested in Texas, emphasizing the need for local relationships to succeed in that market [43] Question: What is the effective tax rate going forward? - The effective tax rate is expected to remain around 18.9% for the year, with efforts to keep it below 20% [39]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $65.6 million and diluted earnings per share of $1.20, representing an 18% increase from the same quarter last year [11] - Pre-provision net revenue was $88.3 million, with a return on average assets of 1.47% and a return on common equity of 14.9% [11] - The book value grew by an annualized 14% from the previous quarter, ending at $32.37 per share [13] - Net interest income was reported at $133.4 million, with a normalized net interest income of $137.8 million, resulting in a net interest margin of 3.09% [13][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was below expectations, with loan paydowns increasing by $500 million over the prior two quarters [4] - The loan pipeline increased by over 10% in October compared to September and is 40% higher than a year ago [4][5] - Non-performing assets increased by approximately $96 million during the quarter, primarily due to a relationship with a large merchant developer [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company hired seven new producers across its markets, achieving profitability in all markets for the first time [7] - The company is managing down total deposit costs as the Federal Reserve reduces the Fed funds rate [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on organic loan and deposit growth while managing non-interest expenses [18] - There is a strategic emphasis on non-interest income growth through credit cards, merchant services, and treasury management products [16] - The company is exploring opportunities in Texas, aiming to attract local talent and customers [62] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that lending activity softened in Q3 but has been robust moving into Q4 [8] - The company expects continued margin expansion due to anticipated rate cuts from the Federal Reserve [14][33] - Management expressed confidence in the loan pipeline and expects a good close in loan growth for Q4 [6][41] Other Important Information - The company recognized a loss of $7.8 million on the sale of bonds and invested in a solar tax credit, benefiting from a $2.4 million tax provision [12][19] - The company has a total NDFI exposure of $71 million, which is less than 1% of its loan portfolio, indicating a cautious approach to lending in riskier categories [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: What pushed the borrower to nonperforming status? - Management indicated that additional collateral was obtained, but a large payment expected before quarter-end did not materialize, leading to the non-accrual status [28][29] Question: What is the loan-to-value ratio on the loans? - Management stated that while the loan-to-value is elevated, it is believed to be below one-to-one, with adequate security to cover the loans [31] Question: What are the expectations for margin improvement? - Management expects a 7 to 10 basis point improvement in margin each quarter, with a normalized spot rate for September at 3.28% [33][34] Question: What is the outlook for loan demand? - Management noted that loan demand is currently okay, with commercial real estate being a stronger area, but overall demand is not great [41] Question: What is the effective tax rate going forward? - The effective tax rate is expected to remain around 18.9% for the year, with efforts to keep it below 20% in the future [54]