Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record-breaking third-quarter sales of approximately $2.7 billion, representing a 6% year-over-year increase, driven by strong performance in Asia and South America, along with favorable currency effects and tariff-related compensation [11][22][12] - Adjusted operating income increased by 14% to $271 million from $237 million last year, with an adjusted operating margin of 10%, which is 70 basis points better than the same quarter last year [12][23] - Earnings per share for the third quarter reached a record high, with a 26% increase year-over-year, primarily driven by higher operating income and a reduced share count [8][24] - Operating cash flow totaled $258 million, an increase of $81 million or 46% compared to the previous year [12][26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales growth in China has returned to outperformance, driven by recent product launches, with sales to domestic OEMs growing by almost 23%, significantly outpacing light vehicle production growth [7][19] - The company achieved a gross margin of 19.3%, an increase of 130 basis points year-over-year, primarily due to direct labor efficiency and headcount reductions [13][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global light vehicle production increased by 4.6% in the third quarter, exceeding expectations, with strong growth for domestic OEMs in China supported by government policies [14][15] - Light vehicle production in North America showed resilience, while production in Western Europe and Japan declined by approximately 2% to 3% [15][31] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on expanding its presence in China, investing in a second R&D center to strengthen partnerships with Chinese OEMs [9][10] - A joint venture with HSAE, a leading Chinese automotive electronics developer, aims to develop advanced safety electronics, enhancing the company's competitive position in high-growth areas [11][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate trade volatility and regional dynamics, with an improved outlook for global light vehicle production, particularly in North America and China [31][32] - Despite expected challenges in 2025, the company anticipates higher sales and continued outperformance, especially in China, while acknowledging potential headwinds from inflation compensation and increased depreciation costs [35][36] Other Important Information - The company plans to repurchase shares worth $300 million to $500 million annually and has increased its quarterly dividend to $0.85 per share, reflecting confidence in financial strength [9][24] - The leverage ratio remains low at 1.3 times, below the target limit of 1.5 times, indicating prudent financial management [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Why isn't organic sales benefiting from the stronger production environment? - Management explained that adjustments for past quarters and a larger negative market mix impacted organic sales guidance, along with delays in new launches in China [42][44] Question: Was there anything unusual in the strong margin for Q3? - Management confirmed that a $50 million supplier compensation was a one-time benefit, contributing to the strong margin alongside higher-than-expected sales [45][46] Question: How should Q4 trends be viewed for 2026? - Management expressed confidence in reaching midterm targets, noting that Q4 is typically the strongest quarter, but current trends should not be extrapolated directly into 2026 [50][52] Question: What are the expected headwinds for Q4? - Management identified lower engineering income, reduced inflation compensation, and increased depreciation as the main headwinds for Q4 [61][63] Question: How is the company positioned in the Chinese market? - Management highlighted strong growth with domestic OEMs, despite some negative impacts from global customers, and expressed optimism about future performance in China [116][117]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income available to common shareholders of $1.3 billion, or $1.04 per share, which included $0.02 per share of restructuring charges primarily related to severance [4][12] - Adjusted revenue increased by 3.7% late in the quarter, driven by a 9.9% growth in non-interest income and a 1.2% growth in net interest income [12][22] - Average loan balances increased by 2.5%, while average deposit balances decreased by $3.9 billion sequentially, or 1% [5][14] - The company returned $1.2 billion of capital to shareholders through dividends and stock repurchases, with plans to target approximately $750 million in share repurchases during the fourth quarter [7][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consumer and small business banking saw net new checking account growth with over 20,000 new accounts added, and average loan balances increased by 2% late in the quarter [9][10] - Wholesale loans increased by 2.8% late in the quarter, driven by growth from new and existing clients [10][11] - Wealth management income increased by 7.5% late in the quarter due to higher market values and positive net asset flows [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Digital transactions rose by 7% year over year, with digital channels accounting for 40% of new clients, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials [10] - The company experienced broad-based growth across industry banking verticals, with significant increases in loan and deposit production per banker [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company announced a strategic investment to build 100 new branches in high-growth markets and enhance digital capabilities [3][4] - The focus remains on deepening relationships with existing clients and attracting new clients through technology-enabled experiences [4][26] - The company aims to achieve a 15% ROTCE by 2027, reflecting confidence in long-term earnings power and strategic direction [24][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to reach a 15% ROTCE by 2027, with expectations for revenue growth in 2026 to more than double compared to 2025 [24][26] - The company anticipates continued loan growth and improved client deposit growth in the fourth quarter and into 2026 [14][22] Other Important Information - The company maintained strong asset quality metrics, with net charge-offs declining both on a late quarter and year-over-year basis [7][19] - The CET1 capital ratio remained stable at 11%, with an improved CET1 ratio including AOCI at 9.4% [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Revenue growth expectations for 2026 - Management indicated that revenue growth is expected to more than double in 2026 compared to 2025, with both net interest income and fee income contributing to this growth [32][34] Question: Deposit pricing outlook with Fed rate cuts - Management expressed optimism about deposit pricing and growth momentum, anticipating improvements in interest-bearing deposit beta due to recent Fed rate cuts [38][40] Question: Credit quality perspective - Management stated that overall credit quality remains strong, with a focus on high-quality assets in both wholesale and consumer spaces [70][73] Question: Capital levels and buyback flexibility - Management confirmed flexibility in buybacks, with a target of $750 million for the fourth quarter, while maintaining a conservative capital structure [78] Question: Non-accrual loans and First Brands exposure - Management acknowledged that the increase in non-accrual loans includes exposure to First Brands, which has been accounted for in the forward guidance [87][90]

Financial Performance - Sales growth accelerated to 4% in Q3, with broad-based execution across teams despite market headwinds [3][4] - Higher Education delivered 2% growth in the nine-month period, with solid performance in core U.S. Higher Ed [4][30] - Q3 performance is in line with expectations, with confidence in a stronger Q4 due to known business unit dynamics [5][6] Business Unit Performance - Virtual Learning achieved 17% sales growth in Q3, driven by excellent enrollment performance [3][4] - Assessment and Qualifications growth accelerated to 4% in Q3, with Pearson VUE returning to growth [3][4] - English Language Learning returned to growth in Q3, despite difficult migration conditions in larger markets [5][6] Market Dynamics - International Higher Ed faced challenges, particularly in mature markets like Canada and the UK, leading to a decline [28][30] - The company is shifting strategy towards emerging markets and digital products to address challenges in mature markets [28][29] - Visibility into Q4 performance is decent across business units, with strong expectations for virtual learning and assessments [5][6] Company Strategy and Industry Competition - The company aims to lead in the application of innovative technologies, particularly AI, across products and services [6][7] - Investments are being made to maintain core strengths, including brand and distribution networks, while evolving products to leverage AI [7][11] - Strategic partnerships with companies like Salesforce and Cognizant are being pursued to enhance enterprise learning solutions [12][13] Management Commentary on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management is optimistic about Q4 performance and annual results aligning with market expectations [6][30] - The company acknowledges ongoing headwinds in certain segments but is confident in the long-term growth potential driven by digital strategies [28][30] - Future growth is expected to be mid-single digits, with a focus on leveraging new contract wins and improving performance in enterprise learning [25][48] Other Important Information - The Test Prep business is currently small but is being integrated into a broader Pearson Skilling Suite [56][57] - The company is actively monitoring the impact of AI on the education sector and exploring partnerships to enhance learning outcomes [41][42] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on revenue model for new contract wins in Pearson VUE - The revenue model is primarily on a per-candidate basis, with no significant upfront implementation fees [16][20] Question: Expectations for growth from new contract wins in 2026 - Management is not providing guidance for 2026 at this time but expects mid-single digits growth in the medium term [25][26] Question: Challenges in International Higher Ed - The decline in International Higher Ed is attributed to challenges in mature markets, with a strategic shift towards emerging markets and digital products [28][30] Question: Performance expectations for virtual learning and ELL in Q4 - Strong visibility for virtual learning is expected to continue, while ELL is anticipated to have a good Q4, particularly in Latin America [39][40] Question: Clarification on PDRI and PTE performance - PDRI is facing challenges this year, with a slow recovery expected, while PTE has shown stronger performance than initially anticipated [48][50]

Financial Performance - Sales growth accelerated to 4% in Q3, indicating broad-based execution across teams despite market headwinds [2][3] - Higher education segment delivered 2% growth over the nine-month period, with solid performance in core U.S. higher education [3][4] Business Unit Performance - Virtual learning achieved 17% sales growth in Q3, driven by improved enrollment performance and digital marketing [3] - Assessment and qualifications growth accelerated to 4% in Q3, with Pearson VUE returning to growth due to new contract launches [3] - English language learning returned to growth in Q3, despite challenging migration conditions in larger markets [4] Market Dynamics - International higher education faced significant challenges, particularly in mature markets like Canada and the UK, leading to a decline in performance [4][25] - The company is shifting its strategy towards emerging markets and digital products to counteract difficulties in mature markets [25] Company Strategy and Industry Competition - The company is focused on applying innovative technologies, particularly AI, across its products and services to enhance learning outcomes and operational efficiency [5][6] - New partnerships and contracts, such as with Salesforce and Cognizant, are aimed at expanding enterprise customer engagement and leveraging AI capabilities [9][10] Management Commentary on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in a strong Q4 performance, driven by known business unit dynamics and enrollment visibility [4][5] - The company anticipates mid-single digits growth for Pearson VUE in the medium term, despite ongoing challenges in the PDRI segment [20][42] Other Important Information - The company is investing in its core strengths, including brand and distribution networks, while renewing products and services with AI at the forefront [6][7] - The test prep business launched in April is still small but is being integrated into a broader offering called the Pearson Skilling Suite [45] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on revenue model for Pearson VUE contracts - The revenue model is primarily on a per-candidate basis, with no significant upfront implementation fees [13][17] Question: Expectations for growth from new contract wins in Pearson VUE - Management did not provide specific guidance for 2026 but indicated that good performance in Q4 would positively impact future growth [19][20] Question: Issues in international higher education segment - The decline is attributed to challenges in mature markets, with a strategic shift towards digital products in emerging markets expected to improve performance [24][25] Question: Future growth expectations for virtual learning - Strong growth is expected to continue into Q4 and beyond, supported by good visibility from back-to-school enrollments [31][32] Question: Visibility on new contracts in English Language Learning - There is good visibility for a strong Q4, particularly in Latin America [33] Question: Opportunities with AI offerings - The company is engaged in discussions with AI firms to explore partnerships and leverage advancements in AI for educational solutions [34]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record net revenues and pre-tax income for Q3 2025, with commissions rising to a record $537 million, up 23% from the previous year [11] - Net interest income reached a quarterly record of $967 million, reflecting a 21% increase year-over-year, driven by higher segregated cash and margin loan balances [11][19] - Total net revenues increased by 21% compared to the previous year [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commission revenue increased by 23% year-over-year, with options volume rising 27% and equity volumes up 67% [11][5] - The company added 790,000 net new accounts in Q3, exceeding the total added in all of last year [4] - Client equity surpassed $750 billion, up 40% from the previous year, compared to 16% growth for the S&P 500 [4] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The S&P 500 index rose 8% during the quarter, indicating positive market sentiment [3] - The company experienced strong trading volumes, with record options contracts at 418 million and a 67% increase in equities [5][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on automating brokerage operations and expanding product offerings while minimizing costs [25] - New product introductions include tax-advantaged savings accounts in Japan and Sweden, as well as a proprietary connections feature for clients [8][9] - The company aims to enhance its global presence and product offerings, particularly in the cryptocurrency space [55] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a positive market environment with steady to declining interest rates, contributing to strong account growth and trading activity [3][4] - The company anticipates continued growth in client accounts and trading volumes, driven by a favorable economic backdrop [58] Other Important Information - The company has no long-term debt and reported total assets of $200 billion, a 35% increase from the previous year [16] - The firm ranked fourth in the number of hedge funds serviced, indicating strong competitive positioning [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of capital markets activity on securities lending revenue - Management indicated that securities lending revenue is influenced by customer balances and shorting activity, with potential benefits from increased IPOs and M&A activity [26] Question: Evidence of AI impacting trading volumes - Management acknowledged increased trading volumes but could not definitively attribute them to AI integration [27][29] Question: Trends in non-U.S. dollar balances and interest rate sensitivity - Management noted that as the business grows, the percentage of non-U.S. dollar balances increases, enhancing interest rate sensitivity [33] Question: Strategy for growing forecast contracts - The company is focusing on adding broker partners and increasing participation from direct customers in forecast contracts [39] Question: Recent trends in account growth and geographic client acquisition - Management confirmed continued strong account growth with no signs of deceleration, maintaining a diverse geographic client base [58][50]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record net revenues and pretax income for Q3 2025, with commissions rising to a record $537 million, up 23% from the previous year [15][16] - Net interest income reached a quarterly record of $967 million, reflecting a 21% increase year-over-year, driven by higher segregated cash and margin loan balances [16][24] - Total net revenues increased by 21%, with client equity surpassing $500 billion, up 40% from last year [6][7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commission revenue increased by 23% year-over-year, with options volume rising 27% and equity volumes up 67% [16][22] - The company added over 790,000 net new accounts in Q3, exceeding the total added in all of the previous year [6][7] - The trading volumes in newer products such as crypto and forecast contracts saw significant growth, with crypto trade volumes up 87% from the previous quarter [8][9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The S&P 500 Index rose 8% during the quarter, indicating a positive market sentiment despite traditional concerns [5] - The company experienced strong net new account growth across all regions and client types, reflecting organic growth [5][6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on automating brokerage operations, expanding product offerings, and minimizing costs to enhance competitiveness [30] - New product introductions include tax-advantaged savings accounts in Japan and Sweden, as well as features like proprietary connections for investment insights [12][13] - The company aims to leverage its strong financial standing and competitive interest rates to attract more clients and expand its market presence [21][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a positive operating environment with steady to declining interest rates and a less restrictive regulatory environment [4][5] - The company anticipates continued growth in client accounts and trading volumes, driven by a favorable economic backdrop and innovative product offerings [30][31] Other Important Information - The company has no long-term debt and reported total assets 35% higher than the prior year, driven by increased margin lending and segregated cash balances [21] - The company ranked fourth in the number of hedge funds serviced, indicating a strong position in the prime brokerage space [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of capital markets activity on securities lending revenue - Management indicated that securities lending revenue is influenced by customer balances and shorting, with increased activity expected during IPOs and M&A [33][34] Question: Evidence of AI impacting trading volumes - Management acknowledged increased trading volumes but could not definitively attribute them to AI integration in trading [36][38] Question: Trends in non-U.S. dollar balances and interest rate sensitivity - Management explained that growth in client accounts leads to higher interest rate sensitivity, which is beneficial for the company [44][45] Question: Strategy for growing the forecast contracts business - The company is focusing on adding broker partners and increasing participation from direct customers in forecast contracts [51][52] Question: Margin loan growth and customer types - Management noted that margin loans increased significantly, driven by a general appetite for risk among clients [53][54] Question: Geographic client acquisition trends and regulatory impacts - Management confirmed that while client acquisition in China has slowed due to regulatory changes, it has not materially impacted overall growth [67][68] Question: Update on digital assets and crypto services - The company is working on offering cryptocurrency trading in Europe and plans to introduce stablecoin deposits and asset transfers [71][73]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Reported operating income for Q3 was $1.1 billion, with earnings per share at $0.37, including a $164 million impairment charge [17][18] - Adjusted revenue decreased by approximately $30 million, or 1%, due to unfavorable mix and coal pricing, despite a 1% volume growth [17][18] - Adjusted expenses increased by 3%, with interest and other expenses rising by $19 million compared to the previous year [17][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Merchandise revenue and volume decreased by 1%, with minerals volume and revenue up 8% and 12% respectively [11][12] - Coal revenue declined by 11% on a 3% lower total volume, while utility coal tonnage increased by 22% year over year [13][15] - Intermodal revenue increased by 4% on a 5% volume increase, benefiting from strong growth with key customers [10][15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Business conditions are mixed, with customers facing challenges from shifting trade policies and weak global commodity prices [11] - The domestic coal market shows steady trends, while the chemical and forest product markets are impacted by tariffs and production rationalization [12][13][15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be the best-performing railroad in North America, focusing on financial performance, safety, and customer service [4][5] - Completion of major infrastructure projects like the Howard Street Tunnel and Blue Ridge Subdivision is expected to enhance capacity and resiliency [10][11] - The company is actively pursuing strategic opportunities to create value for shareholders while maintaining strong customer relationships [25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's operational performance and ability to navigate mixed economic conditions [25] - There is optimism regarding the potential for volume growth and improved margins in the upcoming quarters, driven by operational efficiencies [18][25] - The company is focused on building a high-performance culture and capitalizing on strategic opportunities as they arise [25][46] Other Important Information - Year-to-date free cash flow is $1.1 billion, with over $2 billion returned to shareholders [23] - The company maintains a full-year CAPEX guidance of $2.5 billion, excluding the Blue Ridge project [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company position itself against peers pursuing mergers? - Management emphasized the importance of running the company effectively to create value and be prepared for strategic opportunities when they arise [29][31] Question: How will the completion of infrastructure projects impact the company? - Management noted that the completion of these projects sets the company up well for future growth and cost reductions [34][36] Question: What are the expectations for coal and intermodal markets? - Management expressed optimism about domestic coal demand and intermodal growth, highlighting ongoing discussions with customers [66][83] Question: What are the cash priorities for 2026? - Management indicated a focus on shareholder returns and potential investments in projects that enhance operational efficiency [90]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The third quarter reported operating income was $1.1 billion, and earnings per share were $0.37, which included a $164 million impairment charge related to goodwill [27] - Adjusted revenue decreased by approximately $30 million or 1%, while adjusted expenses increased by 3% [27][29] - Year-to-date free cash flow reached $1.1 billion, including over $850 million in cash outflows for the Blue Ridge project [33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Merchandise revenue and volume were down 1%, with revenue per unit (RPU) flat, while minerals volume and revenue increased by 812% [19] - Coal revenue declined by 11% on a 3% lower total volume, with domestic coal business showing steady trends [22][23] - Intermodal revenue increased by 4% on a 5% volume increase, benefiting from strong growth with key customers [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Business conditions across markets are mixed, with customers facing uncertainty from shifting trade policies and weak global commodity prices [18] - Fertilizer volume rebounded due to improved production, driving 7% growth in the quarter [20] - Forest products and chemical markets saw a 7% volume decline compared to the prior year, impacted by broader market softness and tariffs [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be the best-performing railroad in North America, focusing on financial performance, safety, customer service, and operational efficiency [8][9] - Completion of major infrastructure projects like the Howard Street Tunnel and Blue Ridge Subdivision is expected to enhance network capacity and resiliency [16][18] - The company is actively pursuing strategic opportunities to create value for shareholders while maintaining strong customer relationships [36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's operational performance and ability to capitalize on market opportunities despite mixed economic conditions [36] - The company anticipates continued improvements in operational efficiency and cost control, setting a positive outlook for the fourth quarter and beyond [34][36] - Management highlighted the importance of building a high-performance culture and leveraging strategic opportunities for growth [67] Other Important Information - The company remains committed to shareholder distributions, having returned over $2 billion year-to-date [33] - The completion of infrastructure projects is expected to provide a competitive edge in the market, particularly in intermodal services [18][19] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the company positioned versus peers in light of potential mergers? - Management emphasized the importance of running the company effectively to create value and be prepared for strategic opportunities as they arise [41][43] Question: How is the company capitalizing on completed infrastructure projects? - Management noted that the completion of the Howard Street Tunnel and Blue Ridge projects positions the company well for cost reductions and increased service offerings [48][49] Question: What are the expectations for market conditions and growth drivers? - Management indicated that while some markets are facing challenges, there are opportunities for growth in intermodal and coal sectors, with optimism for future performance [85][89] Question: What are the company's priorities moving forward? - The focus is on driving best-in-class performance, building a high-performance culture, and capitalizing on strategic opportunities [67][68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Third quarter reported operating income was $1.1 billion, and earnings per share was $0.37, including a $164 million impairment charge [17] - Adjusted revenue decreased by about $30 million, or 1%, due to unfavorable mix and coal pricing, while adjusted expenses increased by 3% [17][19] - Year-to-date free cash flow reached $1.1 billion, with over $850 million in cash outflows for the Blue Ridge project [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Merchandise revenue and volume were down 1%, with minerals volume and revenue up 8% and 12% respectively [11][12] - Coal revenue declined 11% for the quarter on a 3% lower total volume, while utility coal tonnage increased by 22% year over year [13][15] - Intermodal revenue was up 4% on a 5% increase in volume, benefiting from strong growth with key customers [10][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Business conditions are mixed, with customers facing uncertainty from shifting trade policies and weak global commodity prices [11] - The domestic coal market shows steady trends, while the chemical and forest product markets have faced challenges, with volume down 7% [12][70] - The intermodal market is expected to grow, particularly with the completion of the Howard Street Tunnel, which will enhance service offerings [11][80] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be the best-performing railroad in North America, focusing on financial performance, safety, and customer service [4][5] - Completion of major infrastructure projects like the Howard Street Tunnel and Blue Ridge Subdivision is expected to enhance capacity and resiliency [10][11] - The company is actively pursuing strategic opportunities to create value for shareholders while maintaining strong customer relationships [25][39] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's operational performance and ability to navigate mixed economic conditions [25] - The company anticipates easing year-over-year headwinds into the fourth quarter, supported by strong operational execution and cost control [18] - There is optimism regarding the coal market and potential improvements in the chemical and forest product sectors as economic conditions stabilize [70] Other Important Information - The company has returned over $2 billion to shareholders year-to-date and remains committed to shareholder distributions [23] - The company expects to maintain its capital expenditure guidance of $2.5 billion for the full year, excluding the Blue Ridge project [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company position itself against peers pursuing mergers? - The company emphasizes running its operations effectively to create value and be prepared for strategic opportunities when they arise [31][32] Question: How will the completion of infrastructure projects impact the company? - The completion of the Blue Ridge and Howard Street projects is expected to enhance operational efficiency and cost reduction, setting the stage for growth [36][37] Question: What are the company's priorities moving forward? - The focus is on driving best-in-class performance, building a high-performance culture, and capitalizing on strategic opportunities [51] Question: How does the company view the current market conditions? - The company acknowledges mixed market conditions but remains optimistic about growth opportunities, particularly in intermodal and coal sectors [70][72] Question: What are the cash flow priorities for 2026? - The company plans to prioritize shareholder returns and may consider debt reduction, depending on cash flow performance [90]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $17.8 million for Q3 2025, up from $16.5 million in Q3 2024, translating to $1.56 per diluted common share compared to $1.41 a year ago [3][8] - Net interest income increased to $50.8 million, a rise of $2.8 million or 5.8% from $48 million in the same period last year [4][9] - The annualized net interest margin improved to 3.72% from 3.42% a year ago, reflecting stable loan yields and effective funding cost control [4][10] - Non-interest expense rose to $36.1 million from $33.7 million in the prior year, primarily due to higher legal and professional fees and technology upgrades [6][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gross loans totaled $4.54 billion, a decline of $223 million or 4.7% from December 31, 2023, mainly due to elevated commercial real estate and multifamily loan payoffs [4][15] - Construction lending showed solid momentum with total unfunded construction commitments steady at approximately $600 million [5][16] - Non-interest income totaled $7.1 million, slightly up from $7.0 million in Q3 2024, driven by improvements in commissions on annuity sales and fees on loans [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits decreased by $77.5 million or 1.7% compared to December 31, 2024, primarily due to a decrease in brokered deposits [16][17] - As of September 30, 2025, uninsured deposits totaled approximately $742 million, representing roughly 16% of total deposits [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasized disciplined cost control and operational efficiency while strategically investing in areas that enhance capabilities for sustained growth [15][19] - The Board of Directors approved a new stock repurchase authorization for up to 1 million additional shares, reflecting a commitment to returning value to shareholders [19][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that credit quality remains strong, with no significant signs of weakness across the portfolio, despite some idiosyncratic issues in specific projects [24][25] - The company is well-positioned to handle potential future rate cuts, with expectations that moderate cuts will not significantly impact margins [27][28] Other Important Information - The efficiency ratio was reported at 62.45%, up from 61.34% in the prior year, indicating a slight increase in operational costs relative to income [14] - The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans stood at 1.43%, reflecting a slight increase from the previous quarter [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook and regional opportunities - Management highlighted opportunities across various regions, including Texas and Atlanta, while noting elevated payoffs [22][23] Question: Signs of weakness in the portfolio - Management stated that there are no broad signs of weakness, with any issues being specific to individual projects [24] Question: Outlook on operating expenses - Management indicated that some operating expenses are expected to stabilize, with potential decreases in legal and professional fees [35][36] Question: Commission income sustainability - Management acknowledged that commission income is at a higher level than historically but could fluctuate based on customer interest [37][38]