Karooooo .(KARO) - 2026 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 13:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Annual recurring revenue (ARR) increased 20% to ZAR 4,806 million, and on a U.S. dollar basis, increased 21% to $272 million [4][17] - Total revenue of ZAR 1,344 million increased 21%, with subscription revenue of ZAR 1,182 million increasing 20% [7][17] - Operating profit increased 18% to ZAR 356 million, with an operating profit margin of 29% [7][17] - Adjusted earnings per share increased 13% to $0.0828 [17][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - CARTRACK's subscription revenue increased 20% to approximately ZAR 1.2 billion, with a 29% operating profit margin [5][19] - Karooooo Logistics revenue reached ZAR 139 million, an increase of 38% [6][13] - CARTRACK's total subscribers increased 15% to approximately 2.5 million [9][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - South Africa's subscription revenue growth accelerated to 18%, comprising 71% of total subscription revenue [10][20] - Southeast Asia and the Middle East subscription revenue growth increased to 26%, with approximately 303,000 subscribers [11][20] - European subscription revenue growth accelerated to 27%, with approximately 216,000 subscribers [13][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on expanding its distribution capabilities and enhancing customer engagement through video solutions and CARTRACK tag [15][22] - Strategic investments in sales capacity are aimed at supporting future growth and improving customer acquisition [15][23] - The company prioritizes organic growth and innovation, with a disciplined capital allocation strategy [15][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to generate sustainable cash flow and maintain strong growth in an expanding market [22] - The company is encouraged by the acceleration in subscription revenue growth and remains committed to achieving FY2026 growth ambitions [23][24] - Management acknowledged the challenges in scaling operations due to high demand and the need for sufficient sales teams [25][29] Other Important Information - The company reported a net cash position of ZAR 393 million and healthy debtor collection days at 31 days [9][21] - The company aims to return surplus cash to shareholders through dividends when growth investments are not feasible [15][22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the touch rates on newer offerings and ARPU growth? - The company has grown ARPU by 4%, with a target of 10% growth in South Africa [26] Question: How does the new sales capacity compare to demand? - The company is experiencing more demand than it can deliver, indicating a need to build teams faster [27][29] Question: What is the market penetration in each region? - South Africa is estimated at 35%, Europe at 20-25%, and Asia under 10% [36][37] Question: How is AI being utilized in scaling go-to-market efforts? - AI is being explored, but there are challenges in customer acceptance in certain markets [38]
Karooooo .(KARO) - 2026 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 13:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Annual recurring revenue (ARR) increased 20% to ZAR 4,806 million, and on a U.S. dollar basis, increased 21% to $272 million [4][18] - Total revenue of ZAR 1,344 million increased 21%, with subscription revenue of ZAR 1,182 million increasing 20% [8][18] - Operating profit increased 18% to ZAR 356 million, and adjusted earnings per share increased 13% to $0.0828 [18][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - CARTRACK generated approximately ZAR 1.2 billion in subscription revenue, an increase of 20% [5][19] - Karooooo Logistics's delivery-as-a-service revenue reached ZAR 139 million, an increase of 38% [6][14] - CARTRACK's operating profit margin was a healthy 29% in Q2 [10][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - South Africa's subscription revenue growth accelerated to 18%, contributing 71% of total subscription revenue [11][20] - Southeast Asia and the Middle East subscription revenue growth increased 26%, with approximately 303,000 subscribers [12][20] - European subscription revenue growth accelerated to 27%, with approximately 216,000 subscribers [13][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on expanding its distribution capabilities and enhancing customer engagement through video solutions and CARTRACK tag [16][24] - Strategic investments in sales capacity are aimed at accelerating organic growth and broadening the customer base [11][16] - The company prioritizes organic growth and innovation while maintaining a disciplined capital allocation strategy [16][17] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to generate sustainable cash flow and achieve growth ambitions despite elevated operating expenses [21][22] - The company is well-positioned to capitalize on the expanding market driven by digital transformation and operational efficiency needs [22][23] - Management noted that the acceleration in subscription revenue growth reflects the strength of the operating model and strategic investments [23][24] Other Important Information - The company ended Q2 with net cash and cash equivalents of ZAR 393 million, maintaining a strong balance sheet [10][21] - The company paid a total cash dividend of approximately $38.6 million to shareholders [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the touch rates on newer offerings and ARPU growth? - The company has grown ARPU by 4%, with an initial target of 10% growth in South Africa [25][26] Question: How does the new sales capacity compare to demand? - The company is experiencing more demand than it can deliver, indicating a need to build teams faster [26][27] Question: What is the market penetration in each region? - South Africa's market penetration is estimated at about 35%, Europe at 20-25%, and Asia at under 10% [35][36] Question: Can AI help in scaling go-to-market efforts? - AI is being explored, but there are challenges in customer acceptance in certain markets [37]
Karooooo .(KARO) - 2026 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 13:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q2 FY26, total revenue increased by 21% to ZAR1,344 million, with subscription revenue rising by 20% to ZAR1,182 million [11][24] - Operating profit increased by 18% to ZAR356 million, and adjusted earnings per share rose by 13% to ZAR8.28 [25][30] - Annual recurring revenue (ARR) grew by 20% to ZAR486 million, and on a U.S. Dollar basis, it increased by 21% to USD272 million [5][6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Kartrak's subscription revenue grew by 20% to ZAR1,204 million, with a healthy operating profit margin of 29% [8][25] - Karoo Logistics revenue reached ZAR139 million, marking a significant increase of 38% [10][19] - Subscription revenue from Kartrak accounted for 98% of its total revenue, indicating a strong reliance on subscription-based income [25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - South Africa's subscription revenue growth accelerated to 18%, contributing 71% of total subscription revenue [16] - Southeast Asia and the Middle East saw a subscription revenue growth of 26%, with a total of approximately 303,000 subscribers [17] - European subscription revenue growth accelerated to 27%, with 216,000 subscribers in the region [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to strengthen its leadership position in South Africa while expanding its distribution footprint in Asia and Europe [20][21] - There is a focus on capital allocation towards organic growth and product innovation, with a disciplined approach to M&A [22][23] - The company is committed to enhancing its distribution capabilities and increasing product adoption among existing customers [20][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the underlying demand driven by digital transformation and the need for operational efficiency [32] - The company anticipates continued growth in subscription revenue, supported by strategic investments in sales and marketing [33] - There is a recognition of the bottleneck in customer onboarding and cross-selling due to insufficient team capacity [35][39] Other Important Information - The company reported a net cash position of USD393 million, reflecting a strong balance sheet [31] - The subscription gross margin was 72%, with a lifetime value to customer acquisition cost (LTV to CAC) ratio remaining above 9x [15][14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the tax rates you're seeing on some of your newer offerings? - The company has grown its average revenue per user (ARPU) by 4%, with expectations to grow ARPU in South Africa by 10% [35] Question: How do you think about drivers of momentum in the market? - The company has been focused on recruiting and building teams to support new customer acquisitions and cross-selling [39] Question: What did you see from vision attach rate by geo? - Most sales currently come from the existing customer base, with video sales accounting for about 10% of total sales [40] Question: How is the change in mix shift towards videos impacting gross margins? - Gross margins have remained in the range of 70% to 74%, with a slight decrease to 72% this quarter due to increased cost of sales [41] Question: How did your new sales reps compare to the existing base? - New sales reps typically take time to reach the performance levels of established salespeople [43] Question: How long do you expect elevated operating expenses to persist? - The company plans to continue investing in infrastructure and sales, indicating that elevated expenses may be a long-term strategy [44] Question: What is the estimated market penetration in each region? - South Africa is estimated to have a market penetration of about 35%, Europe around 25%, and Asia under 10% [46]
Synchrony(SYF) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 13:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Synchrony Financial reported net earnings of $1,100,000,000 or $2.86 per diluted share, with a return on average assets of 3.6% and return on tangible common equity of 30.6% [6][20] - The company generated $46,000,000,000 in purchase volume in Q3 2025, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 2% [6][16] - Ending loan receivables decreased by 2% to $100,000,000,000, influenced by lower prior period purchase volume and higher payment rates [16][20] - Net revenue was flat at $3,800,000,000, with net interest income increasing by 2% to $4,700,000,000 [17][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Purchase volume in Health and Wellness grew by 3%, while Home and Auto was down by 1% and Lifestyle was down by 3% [7][16] - Dual and co-branded cards accounted for 46% of total purchase volume, increasing by 8% year-over-year [7][16] - Average transaction values were approximately 40 basis points higher than last year, with spend frequency up by 3.4% [8][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The 30-plus delinquency rate decreased to 4.39%, down 39 basis points from the prior year [20][21] - The net charge-off rate was 5.16%, a decrease of 90 basis points from the previous year [21][20] - The allowance for credit losses as a percent of loan receivables was 10.35%, down 24 basis points from the previous quarter [22][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is gradually reversing some credit tightening in areas with strong risk-adjusted growth opportunities [10][28] - Synchrony added or expanded partnerships with over 15 partners in Q3, including the Toro Company and Lowe's [11][12] - The acquisition of Versatile Credit is expected to enhance access to flexible financing and contribute to long-term growth [13][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about consumer resilience and credit performance, noting improvements in spending trends [44][46] - The company expects flat ending receivables for the year, with a loss rate projected between 5.6% and 5.7% [25][26] - The outlook for 2025 includes expectations for net interest margin expansion and stronger delinquency formation [27][25] Other Important Information - Synchrony returned $971,000,000 to shareholders, including $861,000,000 in share repurchases [24][20] - The company has a CET1 ratio of 13.7%, indicating strong capital generation capacity [23][20] Q&A Session Summary Question: What led to the updated revenue guidance? - Management indicated that the guidance was influenced by improved delinquencies and elevated payment rates, which reduced late fee incidents [32][34] Question: Can you provide insights on the credit actions and potential rollbacks? - Management confirmed that any potential rollbacks would occur on a partner-by-partner basis, with no large-scale rollback plans in place [35][36] Question: What is the outlook for consumer behavior and credit performance? - Management noted that the consumer remains resilient, with positive trends in spending and credit performance expected to continue [44][46] Question: How do you view the potential for account growth? - Management highlighted that new accounts were up 10% sequentially and year-over-year, indicating a willingness among consumers to apply for credit [76][77] Question: What are the implications of the delinquency trends for future charge-offs? - Management acknowledged that while delinquency rates have improved, they expect to return to more seasonal trends moving forward [99][100]
ASML Holding(ASML) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 06:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q3 2025 were €7.5 billion, including €2 billion from installed base revenue and the recognition of one High NA system [1] - Gross margin for the quarter was 51.6%, aligning with guidance [1] - Net income for the quarter was €2.1 billion, with net bookings recorded at CHF 5.4 billion, including CHF 3.6 billion for EV [1] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, revenue is expected to be between €9.2 billion and €9.8 billion, significantly larger than Q3 2025 [2][3] - Installed base revenue for Q4 is projected to be approximately DKK 2.1 billion, with a gross margin expected between 51% and 53% [3] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The demand from Chinese customers is anticipated to be significantly lower in 2026 compared to 2024 and 2025, where strong business was recorded [6][7] - Despite the expected decline in demand from China, net sales for 2026 are projected to not fall below 2025 levels [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on AI-driven investments in advanced logic and DRAM, which are expected to benefit a larger part of the customer base [5] - A strategic partnership with Mistral AI has been established to enhance software capabilities within ASML's systems, improving product development speed and precision [9][11][12] - The company is pursuing opportunities in 3D integration, which is seen as a way to drive Moore's Law and meet increasing customer requirements [16][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a flow of positive news reducing uncertainties, particularly regarding AI commitments and their impact on semiconductor investments [5] - The company expects to see continued strong opportunities in advanced applications driven by AI, with a long-term revenue target of €44 billion to €60 billion by 2030 [19][20] Other Important Information - The company has successfully shipped its first advanced packaging product, the XT260, which supports advanced packaging and offers up to 4x productivity compared to existing products [15] - The maturity of the INA technology is reportedly ahead of previous technologies, indicating strong execution of the technology roadmap [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the outlook for ASML in 2026? - Management believes the impact of market dynamics will be partially effective in 2026, with net sales expected to not be below 2025 levels [7] Question: Can you elaborate on the collaboration with Mistral AI? - The partnership aims to enhance software content in ASML's systems, improving performance and development speed, with ASML taking an 11% share in Mistral [11][12] Question: What are the long-term opportunities for ASML? - Management highlighted that AI will drive advanced applications in semiconductors, with a focus on advanced DRAM and logic, and the potential for significant revenue growth by 2030 [19][20]
ASML Holding(ASML) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 06:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q3 2025 were €7.5 billion, including €2 billion from installed base revenue and the recognition of one High NA system [1] - Gross margin for the quarter was 51.6%, aligning with guidance [1] - Net income for the quarter was CHF 2.1 billion, with net bookings of CHF 5.4 billion, including CHF 3.6 billion for EUV [1] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, revenue is expected to be between €9.2 billion and €9.8 billion, with installed base revenue projected at approximately €2.1 billion [2][3] - Full year 2025 net sales are anticipated to be around €32.5 billion, with a gross margin around 52% [3] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The demand from Chinese customers is expected to significantly decrease in 2026 compared to 2024 and 2025, where strong business was recorded [6] - Despite the anticipated decline in China, net sales for 2026 are expected to not fall below 2025 levels [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on AI-driven investments in advanced logic and DRAM, which are expected to benefit a larger part of the customer base [5] - A strategic partnership with Mistral AI has been established to enhance software capabilities within ASML's systems, improving product development speed and performance [9][11] - The company is pursuing opportunities in 3D integration, which is seen as a way to drive Moore's Law and meet increasing customer requirements [16][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a flow of positive news regarding AI commitments, which is expected to drive investments in advanced semiconductor applications [5] - The company anticipates that AI will create significant value in its products moving forward, with long-term revenue opportunities projected between €44 billion and €60 billion by 2030 [20] Other Important Information - The company has shipped its first advanced packaging product, the XT260, which supports advanced packaging and offers up to 4x productivity compared to existing products [15] - The collaboration with Mistral AI includes an 11% share acquisition and a seat on their strategic committee, emphasizing the importance of AI in ASML's future [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the outlook for ASML in 2026? - Management expects the impact of market dynamics to be partially effective in 2026, with net sales not expected to be below 2025 levels [7] Question: Can you elaborate on the collaboration with Mistral AI? - The partnership aims to enhance software content in ASML's systems, improve product development speed, and leverage AI for better performance [9][11] Question: What are the long-term opportunities for ASML? - The company sees AI driving advanced applications in semiconductors and expects significant revenue opportunities by 2030 [20]
Hancock Whitney (HWC) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-14 21:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an ROA of 1.46%, up from 1.32% a year ago, indicating continued profitability improvement [6] - Adjusted net income for the quarter was nearly $128 million, or $1.49 per share, compared to $118 million, or $1.37 per share in the previous quarter [10] - The efficiency ratio improved to 54.1% from 54.91% in the prior quarter, and year-to-date efficiency ratio is 54.73%, down from 55.67% last year [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fee income grew to $106 million, an increase of 8% from the prior quarter, with investment, insurance, and annuity fees leading the increase [6] - Loans grew by $135 million, or 2% annualized, with production increasing 6% quarter-over-quarter and 46% year-over-year [7] - Deposits decreased by $387 million, primarily due to seasonal activity in public fund DDA and interest-bearing accounts [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Interest-bearing transaction balances increased, while retail time deposits and DDA balances decreased, reflecting promotional pricing changes [8] - The company ended the quarter with a TCE of 10.01% and a common equity tier one ratio of 14.08% [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to open five new locations in the Dallas market, aiming for growth and profitability [9] - The focus remains on organic growth, with a goal of achieving more favorable loan yields and relationship revenue [7] - The company is optimistic about closing out 2025 with continued growth despite a dynamic macroeconomic environment [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating challenges and supporting clients, highlighting a strong capital stack and solid allowance for credit losses [9] - The company anticipates low single-digit growth in 2025, with expectations of continued paydowns impacting loan growth [8] - Management noted that while paydowns may persist, they are focused on increasing loan production to offset this [21] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 662,000 shares of common stock during the quarter, continuing to return capital to investors [8] - The company expects to maintain a strong capital position while being proactive in deploying capital for organic growth [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth expectations and paydowns - Management indicated that loan production was strong, with a healthy growth rate, but paydowns are expected to continue due to project completions [18][21] Question: Capital management and M&A opportunities - Management clarified that they are not focused on M&A currently but are open to opportunistic approaches in the future [25][26] Question: Deposit growth expectations for Q4 - Management expects strong seasonal growth in public fund deposits and DDAs, projecting a total deposit growth of $400 million to $500 million [90][91] Question: Future growth in the Dallas market - The company plans to double its offices in the Dallas MSA and anticipates significant growth driven by business purpose clients [95][96] Question: Credit quality and criticized loans - Management expressed confidence in the moderation of criticized loans, noting improvements in client performance and refinancing activity [78][79]
VirTra(VTSI) - 2025 FY - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-14 21:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a significant vote of 4,434,960 shares or approximately 98% in favor of John Givens as a director, indicating strong shareholder support [16] - The ratification of Haney & Company as the independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2025, was approved by a majority of votes present [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has been focusing on adapting its products to meet military needs, which has led to increased interest from the military sector [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The military market has started to take notice of the company's offerings, particularly due to the company's ability to provide a single point of manufacturing and control, which is favorable compared to multiple vendors [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is strategically positioned for growth by aligning its product development with the specific needs of the military and law enforcement sectors [15] - The board has emphasized continuity and expertise in its composition to navigate recent leadership changes effectively [6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's future, highlighting that the best days are ahead and that the company is well-positioned for growth in military and adjacent markets [26] Other Important Information - The meeting included the election of five directors and the ratification of the accounting firm, which were both successfully completed [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the company progressing in the military market? - Management indicated that over the last three years, the company has been focused on developing products tailored to military needs, which has resulted in a favorable position for future growth [15]
VirTra(VTSI) - 2025 FY - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-14 21:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a significant vote of approximately 98% in favor of the election of John Givens as a director, indicating strong shareholder support [15] - The ratification of Haney & Company as the independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2025, was approved by a majority of votes, reflecting confidence in the company's financial oversight [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has focused on adapting its products to meet the specific needs of the military market, which has led to increased recognition and potential growth opportunities [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The military market has started to take notice of the company's capabilities, particularly its ability to provide comprehensive solutions without relying on multiple vendors, which enhances its competitive position [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is strategically positioned for growth by focusing on product development tailored to the military's requirements, which is seen as a key area for future expansion [14] - The emphasis on manufacturing and controlling all products internally is a strategic advantage that the company is leveraging to strengthen its market position [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's progress in the military market and highlighted the importance of aligning product offerings with customer needs [14] - The company believes that its best days are ahead, indicating a positive outlook for future performance [24] Other Important Information - The meeting included the election of five directors, with no nominations from stockholders, leading to a straightforward election process [6] - The company has established procedures for shareholder engagement during the meeting, ensuring that all voices can be heard [3] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the company progressing in the military market? - Management indicated that over the past three years, the company has been focused on adapting its products to meet military needs, which has positioned it well for future growth [14]
Hancock Whitney (HWC) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-14 21:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an adjusted net income of nearly $128 million, or $1.49 per share, compared to $118 million, or $1.37 per share in the previous quarter, reflecting a strong performance [10] - Return on Assets (ROA) improved to 1.46% from 1.32% a year ago, indicating continued profitability improvement [5] - The efficiency ratio improved to 54.1% from 54.91% in the prior quarter, and year-to-date efficiency ratio is 54.73%, down from 55.67% last year [10][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net interest income (NII) increased by $3 million, or 1%, while fee income grew to $106 million, an increase of 8% from the prior quarter, driven by record highs in investment, insurance, and annuity fees [5][10] - Loans grew by $135 million, or 2% annualized, with production increasing 6% quarter over quarter and 46% year over year [6][10] - The yield on the loan portfolio increased by 1 basis point to 5.87%, while the yield on fixed-rate loans rose by 7 basis points to 5.24% [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposits decreased by $387 million, primarily due to seasonal activity in public fund DDA and interest-bearing accounts [7][13] - Interest-bearing transaction balances increased, while retail time deposits and DDA balances decreased, reflecting promotional pricing changes [7] - The company expects low single-digit growth in deposits for the fourth quarter, with anticipated seasonal growth in public fund deposits [72] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to open five new locations in the Dallas market, aiming for increased hiring to solidify growth targets [9][27] - The focus remains on organic growth, with a goal of achieving more favorable loan yields and relationship revenue [6][9] - The company aspires to become the best bank in the Southeast for privately owned businesses, emphasizing the importance of local service and efficiency [78] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the dynamic macroeconomic environment, highlighting a strong capital position and solid allowance for credit losses [9] - The company anticipates continued growth and profitability, despite challenges from high paydowns and competitive pressures [9][23] - Management expects to maintain a proactive approach to managing capital, focusing on organic growth and potential share repurchases [27][29] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately $40 million of shares during the quarter and plans to continue at this level [14][29] - The capital ratios remain strong, with a tangible common equity (TCE) of 10.01% and a common equity tier one ratio of 14.08% [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth expectations and paydowns - Management noted that loan production was strong, with a 6% increase quarter over quarter, but high paydowns are expected to persist, impacting net growth [18][19] Question: Capital management and M&A opportunities - Management clarified that while they are not focused on M&A currently, they remain opportunistic and will consider capital deployment for organic growth and share repurchases [25][27] Question: Guidance for NII and expenses - Management indicated that NII growth expectations are modest, with a bias toward the lower end of the range, and expenses are expected to grow slightly more in the fourth quarter [43][44] Question: Deposit competition and growth expectations - Management expects strong seasonal growth in deposits for the fourth quarter, with no significant changes in competitive pressures noted [72][74] Question: Credit quality and criticized loans - Management expressed confidence in the moderation of criticized loans, citing improvements in client performance and refinancing activity [57][59]