Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total assets exceeded $30 billion, ending the year at $32 billion, a record for the company [3] - Net income for the quarter was $63.8 million, with a total net income for 2025 of $239 million, an increase of $48.9 million, or 26% from the prior year [3][4] - Pre-Tax Pre-Provision Net Revenues of $362 million for 2025 increased $107 million, or 42% over the prior year [4] - Diluted Earnings Per Share for 2025 was $1.99, an increase of $0.31 per share, or 18% from the prior year [4] - Total deposits increased by $4 billion, or 20%, during 2025, reaching $24.6 billion [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net Interest Income for the quarter was $266 million, an increase of $41 million, or 18% from the prior quarter [4] - The loan portfolio increased to $21 billion at the end of 2025, up $3.7 billion, or 21% from the prior year [4] - Non-interest income for the quarter totaled $40 million, an increase of $5 million, or 14%, over the prior quarter [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The net interest margin for the quarter was 3.58%, an increase of 19 basis points from the prior quarter [5] - The loan yield for the quarter was 6.09%, an increase of 12 basis points from the prior quarter [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company successfully closed two strategic acquisitions in 2025, expanding its footprint in Idaho and Texas, which align with its long-term growth strategy [2] - The company aims to achieve a net interest margin of 4% by the second half of 2026, driven by structural repricing drivers [19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in growth despite a slower organic growth rate of about 1% annualized, citing a record level of loan pipeline early in the year [15][16] - The company is optimistic about the integration of Guaranty Bank & Trust, expecting it to contribute meaningfully to production [17][66] Other Important Information - The efficiency ratio improved from 66.7% at the beginning of the year to 63% [7] - Non-Performing Assets remained low at 22 basis points of total assets, reflecting strong credit quality [8] - The company declared its 163rd consecutive quarterly dividend of $0.33 per share [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Organic growth and loan side performance - Management acknowledged a slower organic growth rate but noted a record loan pipeline and expected stronger growth in 2026 [15][16] Question: Margin trajectory and dependence on Fed cuts - Management confirmed that margin growth is not dependent on Fed cuts and expects to reach a 4% margin by the second half of 2026 [19] Question: Expense run rate and investments - Management provided guidance for core non-interest expenses and indicated a typical pattern of expense management throughout the year [21][31] Question: Integration of Guaranty Bank & Trust - Management reported a smooth integration process with minimal disruption and expressed excitement about the growth potential in Texas [66] Question: Future margin expansion and loan pricing - Management indicated that they expect continued margin expansion and are seeing good spreads on new loan production [32][44]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total assets reached $2.8 billion, up 8.1% year-over-year [2] - Loans grew by $216 million, or 11%, reflecting strong commercial activity [2] - Deposits increased to $171 million, or 7.9% [2] - Net interest income expanded to 3.27%, improving from 3.16% in the prior year [2] - Non-performing loans stood at 0.14% of total loans, indicating excellent credit quality [3] - Tangible book value per share increased 10.8% year-over-year to $11.97 [3] - GAAP-diluted EPS reported at $0.07, with operational diluted EPS at $0.44 [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average loans increased $31.9 million, or 6.02% annualized compared to the prior quarter [10] - Gross loan production totaled $196 million in Q4, with $83.5 million from correspondent banking [12] - Average deposits were stable, down $3.9 million compared to the prior quarter but up $314.6 million year-over-year [10] - Net interest income increased by $933,000 on a linked quarter basis, representing 17.4% annualized growth [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The bank's loan portfolio increased to just under $2.2 billion, with commercial real estate representing 57% [18] - The quality of the loan portfolio remains strong, with a past-due ratio at 0.14% [19] - The bank's securities portfolio ended the quarter with $461.4 million, with a quarterly portfolio yield of 3.01% [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to expand and strengthen its deposit base as a top priority for 2026 [25] - Focus on four strong business lines: Business Banking, Private Client Group, Association Banking, and Correspondent Banking [26] - Plans to launch a new lending and deposit gathering team in targeted small business markets [27] - Emphasis on relationship-driven growth rather than rate-driven [25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the bank's business model and strategic actions to enhance earnings power in 2026 [3] - Anticipation of further NIM improvement supported by rate cuts and ongoing deposit strategy execution [13] - The bank's capital ratios exceed regulatory requirements, indicating a solid financial position [6] Other Important Information - The board approved a 25% increase in quarterly cash dividend to $0.12 per share [6] - The company executed a $40 million subordinated debt issuance, primarily used for share repurchase [3] Q&A Session Summary Question: Deposit trends and shrinkage at year-end - Management noted a significant deposit move of over $100 million from a long-term client, which is expected to rebuild over time [35] Question: Loan-to-deposit ratio expectations - Management prefers a loan-to-deposit ratio between 90-95% and anticipates rebuilding deposits in 2026 [39] Question: SBA vertical expansion - The SBA initiative has been growing prudently, aiming for $40-$50 million in annual volume over the next three years [41] Question: Capital strategy and priorities - The focus remains on building capital and returning it to shareholders, with no significant plans for new initiatives [47] Question: Margin expectations for the first quarter - Management expects NIM to be flat to slightly up in the first quarter, with potential for growth from rate cuts [54] Question: Expense outlook - Anticipated expenses to gradually increase with new hires, targeting a low 50% efficiency ratio [65] Question: Fee income outlook - Expected non-interest income to build around $3.5-$3.8 million range for 2026, driven by various fee-generating activities [68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total assets exceeded $30 billion, ending the year at $32 billion, a record for the company [3] - Net income for 2025 was $239 million, an increase of $48.9 million, or 26% from the prior year [3][4] - Diluted earnings per share for 2025 was $1.99, an increase of $0.31 per share, or 18% from the prior year [4] - Pre-tax, pre-provision net revenues of $362 million for 2025 increased $107 million, or 42% over the prior year [4] - Net interest income for 2025 was $889 million, an increase of $184 million, or 26% from the prior year [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan portfolio increased to $21 billion at the end of 2025, up $3.7 billion, or 21% from the prior year [4] - Total deposits reached $24.6 billion, an increase of $4 billion, or 20%, during 2025 [4] - Non-interest income for the quarter totaled $40 million, an increase of $5 million, or 14%, over the prior quarter [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The net interest margin for the quarter was 3.58%, an increase of 19 basis points from the prior quarter [5] - The loan yield for the quarter was 6.09%, an increase of 12 basis points from the prior quarter [5] - The cost of funding decreased to 1.52%, down 6 basis points from the prior quarter [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company successfully closed two strategic acquisitions in 2025, expanding its footprint in Idaho and Texas [2] - The focus is on integrating Guaranty Bank & Trust and leveraging its market position for future growth [65] - The company aims to achieve a net interest margin of 4% by the second half of 2026, driven by structural repricing [19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in growth despite a slower organic growth rate of about 1% annualized [13] - The company anticipates low- to mid-single-digit growth for 2026, with a record level of loan pipeline early in the year [15] - Management highlighted a strong capital position and a commitment to shareholder returns through consistent dividends [8] Other Important Information - Non-performing assets remained low at 22 basis points of total assets, reflecting strong credit quality [8] - The efficiency ratio improved from 66.7% at the beginning of the year to 63% [7] - The company declared its 163rd consecutive quarterly dividend of $0.33 per share [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Organic growth and loan side performance - Management acknowledged a slower organic growth rate but expressed confidence in future growth, particularly with the Guaranty integration [13][15] Question: Margin trajectory and Fed dependency - Management confirmed that margin growth is not dependent on Fed actions and expects to reach a 4% margin by late 2026 [19] Question: Expense run rate and investments - The core non-interest expense for the first quarter is guided at $189 million - $193 million, with expectations for moderation in subsequent quarters [21][31] Question: Integration of Guaranty Bank & Trust - Integration is proceeding smoothly, with a focus on maintaining leadership and minimizing disruption [65][66] Question: Future M&A outlook - Management is optimistic about future M&A opportunities while remaining disciplined in their approach [55] Question: Loan pricing and competition - Current loan pricing is favorable, with good spreads observed, and management is optimistic about maintaining this trend [35][44] Question: Cash flow from securities - Expected cash flow from the securities book is approximately $425 million per quarter for 2026 [45] Question: Net charge-offs and credit quality - Net charge-offs are considered normal for year-end cleanup, with no unusual items reported [78]

Fourth Quarter 2025 Conference Call Safe Harbor This presentation contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements reflect the current views of First Western Financial, Inc.'s ("First Western") management with respect to, among other things, future events and First Western's financial performance. These statements are often, but not always, ma ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings per share of $0.23 on a fully diluted GAAP basis and $0.41 on a core basis [3] - Net interest income grew by $5 million, or 5%, compared to the prior quarter, and increased by 14% compared to the prior year quarter [4] - The net interest margin declined modestly to 2.87% compared to the third quarter [4] - Total loans increased by $474 million, representing an 18% annualized growth rate, driven by $1 billion in originations [4][10] - Asset quality remained strong, with non-performing loans to total loans at 0.2% and non-performing assets to total assets at 0.22% [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The C&I business grew by 42% for the year, benefiting from talent recruitment and favorable conditions for borrowers [9] - Non-interest income decreased by $3.3 million to $9 million during the quarter, primarily due to lower title fees and a reduction in the gain on sale of loans [11] - Total deposits increased by $528 million, with $323 million driven by organic growth across various business lines [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Premier Bank team grew deposits by $90 million, or 37%, from the linked quarter, with a weighted average cost of their deposit portfolio declining by 36 basis points to 2.28% [10] - Approximately 21% of the new deposits are in non-interest-bearing DDA accounts [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company announced a merger agreement with Flushing Financial Corporation, which is expected to enhance organic growth initiatives in New York [6][7] - The merger is anticipated to improve profitability and increase operating scale, providing meaningful upside to shareholders [7] - The company remains focused on continued organic growth efforts, which have shown success in the current quarter [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects high single-digit growth in net interest income for the year, despite the typical seasonal slowdown in Q1 [21] - The effective tax rate is expected to remain in the 23%-25% range quarterly, absent any changes in tax policy [16] - The company anticipates continued strong asset quality, with low levels of criticized and classified loans [13] Other Important Information - The company did not repurchase any shares this quarter, as capital was utilized to support loan growth [6] - The quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per common share was approved, marking the 116th consecutive quarterly cash dividend [6] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarity on net interest income guidance - Management indicated that net interest income growth will likely exceed loan balance growth due to the compounding effect of the larger balance sheet [21] Question: Commentary on loan sales post-merger - Management stated it is too early to provide precise figures on loan sales, as they are currently reviewing portfolios [22] Question: Expense line clarification - The recurring CRT premium expense is categorized under other expenses, similar to insurance premium expenses [23] Question: C&I growth expectations for 2026 - Management expects C&I growth rates to remain in the 7%-9% range, with strong deposit growth anticipated [35] Question: Deposit growth outlook for Premier Banking - Management confirmed the target of $2 billion-$3 billion in deposits by the end of 2027 remains intact [39] Question: Deposit costs outlook for the year - Management expects deposit costs to decrease, lagging behind rate cuts, and anticipates steady improvement in margins [76]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total assets exceeded $30 billion, ending the year at $32 billion, a record for the company [3] - Net income for Q4 was $63.8 million, with a total net income of $239 million for 2025, an increase of $48.9 million, or 26% from the prior year [3][4] - Pre-Tax Pre-Provision Net Revenues for 2025 were $362 million, an increase of $107 million, or 42% over the prior year [4] - Diluted Earnings Per Share for Q4 was $0.49, and for 2025 was $1.99, an increase of $0.31 per share, or 18% from the prior year [4] - Net Interest Income for Q4 was $266 million, up $41 million, or 18% from the prior quarter, and for 2025 was $889 million, an increase of $184 million, or 26% from the prior year [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan portfolio at the end of 2025 was $21 billion, increasing $3.7 billion, or 21% for the year [4] - Total deposits reached $24.6 billion, increasing $4 billion, or 20% during 2025 [4] - Non-interest income for Q4 totaled $40 million, an increase of $5 million, or 14% over the prior quarter, and up 28% over the prior year [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-Performing Assets remained low at 22 basis points of total assets, with a slight increase from the prior quarter [7] - Net charge-offs were 6 basis points of total loans for the year, compared to 8 basis points in the prior year [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company successfully closed two strategic acquisitions in 2025, expanding its footprint in Idaho and Texas, which are seen as markets with strong growth potential [2][3] - The company aims to continue its disciplined approach to increasing net interest margin and improving efficiency ratios [6][8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in future growth, citing a record level of loan pipeline early in 2026 and expectations for low- to mid-single-digit growth for the year [15] - The company anticipates achieving a net interest margin of 4% by the second half of 2026, driven by structural repricing drivers [18][70] Other Important Information - The efficiency ratio improved from 66.7% at the beginning of the year to 63% [6] - Tangible stockholders' equity increased by $609 million, or 29%, in 2025, with tangible book value per share rising to $21, up 12% year-over-year [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Organic growth and loan side performance - Management acknowledged a slower organic growth rate of about 1% annualized but noted a record level of loan pipeline early in 2026, with expectations for growth to improve as the year progresses [13][15] Question: Margin trajectory and expectations - Management confirmed that the net interest margin is on track to reach 4% by the second half of 2026, with confidence in continued growth independent of Federal Reserve actions [18][70] Question: Expense run rate and trends - The core non-interest expense for Q1 is guided at $189-$193 million, with expectations for moderation in subsequent quarters [31][74] Question: Integration of Guaranty Bank & Trust - Management reported a smooth integration process for Guaranty Bank & Trust, emphasizing the retention of leadership and culture, which is expected to enhance performance in the Texas market [66][68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total assets reached $2.8 billion, up 8.1% year-over-year [2] - Loans grew by $216 million, or 11%, reflecting strong commercial activity [2] - Deposits increased to $171 million, or 7.9%, demonstrating continued franchise growth [2] - Net interest income expanded to 3.27%, improving from 3.16% in the prior year [2] - Non-performing loans stood at 0.14% of total loans, indicating excellent credit quality [3] - Tangible book value per share increased 10.8% year-over-year to $11.97 [3] - GAAP-diluted EPS was reported at $0.07, with operational diluted EPS at $0.44 [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average loans increased $31.9 million, or 6.02% annualized compared to the prior quarter [10] - Gross loan production totaled $196 million in Q4, with 43% from correspondent banking [12] - Average deposits were stable, down $3.9 million compared to the prior quarter but up $314.6 million year-over-year [10] - Non-interest income was $3.3 million for Q4, consistent with prior quarters, excluding the securities loss [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The bank's loan portfolio increased to just under $2.2 billion, with commercial real estate representing 57% [19] - The average interest-bearing deposit rates decreased to 3.02%, down from 3.29% in the third quarter [10] - The bank's balance sheet is liability sensitive, with 61% of the loan portfolio being variable-rate or hybrid [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to expand and strengthen its deposit base, focusing on relationship-driven growth rather than rate-driven [26] - Key business lines include Business Banking, Private Client Group, Association Banking, and Correspondent Banking, each with clear plans for growth [26][27] - The strategy for 2026 includes launching a new lending and deposit gathering team in targeted markets [26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the bank's ability to build back deposits lost at year-end and emphasized the importance of deposit growth for 2026 [36] - The company anticipates further NIM improvement supported by rate cuts and ongoing execution of its deposit strategy [13] - The tax expense is expected to be modeled at 26.4% going forward, reflecting compliance with state tax liabilities [9][57] Other Important Information - The board approved a 25% increase in the quarterly cash dividend to $0.12 per share [5] - The company completed a $40 million subordinated debt issuance, primarily used for share repurchase [3] Q&A Session Summary Question: Deposit trends and year-end shrinkage - Management noted a significant deposit move of over $100 million from a long-term client, which is expected to rebuild over time [36] Question: Loan-to-deposit ratio preferences - Management prefers a loan-to-deposit ratio between 90-95% for optimal liquidity [39] Question: SBA vertical expansion - The SBA initiative has been growing prudently, with plans to increase annual volume to $40-50 million over the next three years [42] Question: Capital strategy and priorities for 2026 - The focus remains on building capital and returning it to shareholders, with no significant plans for new initiatives beyond organic growth [47] Question: Margin expectations for the first quarter - Management expects NIM to be flat to slightly up in the first quarter, influenced by deposit runoff and potential rate cuts [54] Question: Expense outlook and new hires - The expense base is expected to gradually increase with new hires, targeting a low 50% efficiency ratio [66] Question: Fee income outlook - Non-interest income is anticipated to build around $3.5-$3.8 million for 2026, driven by various fee-generating activities [68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the full year 2025, net income was $130.1 million, or $2.89 per diluted share, on revenue of $446 million, representing a 9.7% year-over-year increase [13] - The pre-tax pre-provision ROA was 219 basis points, ROA was 136 basis points, and ROTCE was 13.5% [14] - For Q4 2025, net income was $34.5 million, or $0.76 per diluted share, on revenue of $117 million, with revenue up 1.1% from the prior quarter and 12% year-over-year [15] - Tangible book value per share grew by approximately 17% [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Year-on-year loan growth was 8.9%, while deposits grew by 2.5% [14] - In Q4, loans grew by 3% linked quarter, with origination activity consistent at $323 million, primarily from commercial and leasing businesses [15] - Total loans stood at $7.5 billion at year-end, with origination activity up 22% compared to the prior quarter [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is positioned as the largest local community bank and the second largest local commercial bank in Chicago, with significant growth opportunities in the market [6][8] - The Chicago banking market offers substantial opportunities for growth and development, with Byline well-positioned to lead [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to become the preeminent local commercial bank, focusing on organic growth and maintaining a disciplined credit approach [9][24] - A new commercial payments business was launched, with six customers onboarded and additional customers in the pipeline [23] - The company is preparing to cross the $10 billion asset threshold in 2026 while monitoring the regulatory environment closely [23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the operating environment has evolved with elevated interest rates and increased macroeconomic uncertainty, but they remained focused on serving customers and executing their strategy [12] - The company expressed optimism about its competitive position and ability to capitalize on opportunities, emphasizing a strong team and operational leverage [24] Other Important Information - The board approved a 20% increase in the quarterly dividend, reflecting confidence in the company's financial performance [5][17] - The company repurchased approximately 346,000 shares and authorized a new repurchase program for up to 5% of outstanding shares [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Areas of growth and efficiency - Management highlighted excitement around the commercial payments team and the potential for growth in the commercial banking space in Chicago [30][32] Question: Capital return strategy - Management indicated a focus on maintaining flexibility with capital, returning excess capital to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases [33][35] Question: Loan growth outlook - Management expects mid-single-digit loan growth, primarily driven by commercial lending, with real estate growth dependent on transaction activity [44] Question: Net interest income outlook - Management noted that while the first quarter typically sees lower activity, they expect stable to growing net interest income throughout the year [46][48] Question: Credit quality outlook - Management indicated no material changes in credit quality, maintaining a consistent guidance range for net charge-offs [50][98]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the full year 2025, net income was $130.1 million, or $2.89 per diluted share, on revenue of $446 million, representing a 9.7% year-over-year increase [12] - The pre-tax pre-provision ROA was 219 basis points, ROA was 136 basis points, and ROTCE was 13.5% [12] - For Q4 2025, net income was $34.5 million, or $0.76 per diluted share, on revenue of $117 million, with profitability metrics remaining solid [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Year-on-year loan growth was 8.9%, while deposits grew by 2.5% [12] - In Q4, loans grew by 3% linked quarter, with origination activity consistent at $323 million, primarily from commercial and leasing businesses [14] - Non-interest income increased, contributing to a 12% year-over-year revenue growth [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is positioned as the largest local community bank and the second largest local commercial bank in Chicago, with significant growth opportunities in the market [5][7] - The company is preparing to cross the $10 billion asset threshold in 2026, which will enhance its competitive position [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to become the preeminent local commercial bank, focusing on organic growth and maintaining a disciplined credit approach [22][23] - A new commercial payments business was launched, with six customers onboarded and additional customers in the pipeline [22] - The company emphasizes a people-first banking approach, which has contributed to low employee turnover and high engagement [6][8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the operating environment has been characterized by elevated interest rates and macroeconomic uncertainty, but the company remained focused on serving customers and executing its strategy [11] - The outlook for net interest income is based on a forward curve that assumes a 50 basis point decline in the Fed funds rate for 2026 [18] - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to generate sustainable growth and return capital to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases [34] Other Important Information - The board approved a 20% increase in the quarterly dividend, reflecting strong financial performance [4][16] - The company repurchased approximately 346,000 shares during the quarter and authorized a new repurchase program for up to 5% of outstanding shares [15][34] Q&A Session Summary Question: Areas of growth and efficiency - Management highlighted excitement around the commercial payments team and the potential for growth in the commercial banking space in Chicago [30] Question: Capital return strategy - Management indicated a focus on maintaining flexibility with capital, returning excess capital to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases [32][34] Question: Loan growth outlook - Management expects mid-single-digit loan growth, primarily driven by commercial lending, with real estate activity dependent on transaction volume [43] Question: Net interest income outlook - Management noted that while the first quarter typically sees lower activity, they expect stable to growing net interest income throughout the year [45][46] Question: Credit quality outlook - Management maintained guidance for net charge-offs in the range of 30-40 basis points, with no material changes in credit quality expected [49] Question: Commercial payments business - Management clarified that the commercial payments team is focused on onboarding clients such as payroll processing companies and fintechs, with a deliberate approach to growth [70][72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the fourth quarter of 2025, GAAP net income was $75.3 million, with diluted earnings per share at $1.52, resulting in a 1.20% return on assets and an 8.38% return on average common equity [12] - Adjusted operating net income for the quarter was $84.4 million, or $1.70 diluted EPS, representing a 1.34% return on assets and a 9.38% return on average common equity [12] - Operating EPS increased by 60% and operating ROAA rose by 40 basis points compared to the first quarter of 2025 [2] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - C&I loans increased 9% organically in 2025, now representing 25% of total loans, up from 22% at year-end 2024 [6] - Total commercial loans closed were $789 million in the fourth quarter, up from $754 million in the previous quarter [6] - Non-time deposits grew organically by 4.2% in 2025, with DDAs representing 28% of overall deposits [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The cost of total deposits was 1.46% in the fourth quarter, reflecting the value of the deposit franchise [7] - Legacy Rockland Trust branches generated record new business relationships, totaling 6,921, with 97% of branches achieving positive net new growth in business relationships [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on organic growth, expense management, and capital optimization moving into 2026 [10] - Plans include hiring more commercial lenders and aligning incentive structures to emphasize both loan and deposit growth [9] - The company is not currently focused on M&A, prioritizing organic growth and successful integration of the enterprise acquisition [32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's positioning across markets, driven by product strength and employee dedication [10] - The overall asset quality remains stable, with no significant loss exposures currently in workout status [22] - Management anticipates continued margin expansion from cash flow repricing dynamics in both loan and securities portfolios [22] Other Important Information - The company returned $164 million of capital to shareholders in 2025, including the repurchase of 913,000 shares for $61 million [8] - The fourth quarter results benefited from a lower tax rate due to one-time adjustments associated with the corporate tax return [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you walk through the dynamics with the criticized classified loans? - Management noted that the increase in non-performing assets was primarily due to one specific loan that is now in the first quarter 2026 maturity bucket, which is expected to be resolved early in 2026 [27][29] Question: What is the outlook on deposit betas with potential rate cuts? - Management indicated that they expect to maintain a 20% beta on non-CD deposits and 80% on CDs, reflecting their deposit franchise structure [30][31] Question: What is the outlook on M&A? - Management stated that they are not focused on M&A at the moment, prioritizing organic growth and successful integration of the enterprise acquisition [32] Question: What are the plans for hiring additional commercial loan officers? - Management mentioned that they are in a good position with new hires from the previous year and expect inherent C&I growth from these new team members [57] Question: Can you provide guidance on capital targets? - Management indicated long-term capital targets for CET1 in the high 11%-12% range, suggesting a focus on returning capital to shareholders through buybacks [39]