Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $1.8 billion or $4.35 per share for Q3 2025, reflecting strong performance across the franchise [4][16] - Total revenue reached a record $5.9 billion, up $254 million or 4% from the previous quarter, driven by record net interest income and fee income [16][18] - Non-interest expense increased by $78 million or 2%, resulting in over 200 basis points of positive operating leverage and record PPNR of $2.5 billion [16][21] - The net charge-off ratio remained low at 22 basis points, indicating strong credit quality [5][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In retail banking, consumer demand deposit accounts (DDAs) grew by 2% year-over-year, with a notable 6% growth in the Southwest region [6][7] - The asset management business saw client growth and positive net flows, particularly in expansion markets [8] - Commercial loans increased by $3.4 billion or 2%, driven by growth in the commercial and industrial (C&I) portfolio, while commercial real estate loans declined by $1 billion or 3% [12][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average deposits increased by $9 billion or 2% during the quarter, with strong growth in commercial interest-bearing deposits, which rose by 7% [14][15] - The total rate paid on interest-bearing deposits increased by 8 basis points to 2.32% [15] - The company anticipates a decline in the rate paid on deposits in Q4 due to the impact of the September Fed rate cut [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth and strategic acquisitions, such as the recent announcement to acquire FirstBank, which will enhance its market share in Colorado [8][41] - The company aims to reduce costs by $350 million in 2025 through a continuous improvement program while investing in technology and branch expansion [21][24] - The management emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong capital position, with an estimated CET1 ratio of 10.6% [11][68] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects real GDP growth to be below 2% in 2025, with unemployment peaking above 4.5% in mid-2026 [24] - The company anticipates three consecutive Fed rate cuts, which may impact net interest income in the short term but expects a stable to slightly declining revenue outlook for 2025 [24][25] - Despite potential economic challenges, management expressed confidence in consumer spending and corporate clients' cautious optimism [5][24] Other Important Information - The company returned $1 billion of capital to shareholders during the quarter, including $679 million in common dividends and $331 million in share repurchases [11] - The company is on track to complete over 200 branch builds by 2029, with more than 25 new branches expected to open by the end of the year [7][8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin performance and outlook - Management expects net interest margin (NIM) to continue expanding and reach above 3% by 2026, despite a slight decline in the current quarter due to commercial deposit growth [28][30] Question: Expense expectations for Q4 - Expenses are expected to rise due to seasonal factors, with a full-year increase now projected at 1.5% [32][34] Question: Scale and growth opportunities - The company aims to grow its retail franchise at a pace similar to its C&I franchise, focusing on organic growth and selective acquisitions [40][41] Question: Commercial real estate loan runoff - Management expects the decline in commercial real estate balances to inflect positively at the beginning of next year [42][43] Question: Capital levels and rating agency perspectives - The company is currently well-capitalized with a CET1 ratio of 10.6% and is assessing its capital strategy in light of recent developments with rating agencies [68][70] Question: Loan demand outlook - Management sees some strengthening in commercial loan demand, particularly in M&A financing, while credit quality remains strong [58][74]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, América Móvil reported total revenue of 233 billion pesos, up 4.2% in Mexican peso terms and 6.2% at constant exchange rates [6] - EBITDA totaled 94 billion pesos, increasing by 4.9% in nominal terms and 6.8% at constant exchange rates [9] - Net income surged to 23 billion pesos, equivalent to $0.38 per share or $0.40 per ADR, with free cash flow amounting to 53 billion pesos, a 47% increase year on year [10][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The postpaid client base increased by 8.1% year over year, with 3 million new postpaid clients added in the quarter [5][6] - Mobile service revenue grew by 7.1%, the fastest rate in two years, driven by a recovery in prepaid revenue, which expanded by 3.9% [7] - Fixed-line service revenue decelerated to 4.7% growth, impacted by a slowdown in corporate networks revenue, which fell from a 15% increase in Q2 to 3.5% in Q3 [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. dollar depreciated against several currencies in the region, declining 2.7% against the Mexican peso and 4.1% against the Colombian peso [4] - In Brazil, the company added 1.5 million postpaid clients, contributing significantly to overall growth [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is evaluating potential acquisitions, including a joint bid with Entel for Telefónica assets in Chile, indicating a strategy focused on market consolidation [18][19] - Investments in network modernization and customer service enhancements are ongoing, particularly in Chile, where the company has seen significant EBITDA growth [34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the recovery in mobile prepaid revenues in Mexico is closely tied to economic conditions, with expectations for continued improvement [14] - In Colombia, the company is optimistic about growth despite competitive pressures, with service revenue increasing by 7.8% [29] Other Important Information - The company reduced its net debt by 16 billion pesos, ending the quarter with a net debt of 454 billion pesos, equivalent to 1.55 times net debt to EBITDA after leases [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Mobile prepaid revenues in Mexico recovery drivers - Management indicated that the recovery is closely related to economic conditions and expects continued improvement in mobile revenues [14] Question: Margin expansion in Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay - Management confirmed that margin expansion is due to operational improvements and synergies, with no one-off accounting effects [15] Question: Potential acquisitions in Brazil and Chile - Management is evaluating opportunities in both regions, with a focus on strategic acquisitions that make sense for the company [18][19] Question: Competitive environment in Mexico - Management acknowledged strong competition but emphasized their superior network quality and customer service as key differentiators [22] Question: Performance drivers in Brazil's prepaid segment - Management noted that ARPU in Brazil's prepaid segment is growing at 7.3%, driven by increased consumption and network investments [26] Question: Competitive market update for Colombia and Chile - Management highlighted ongoing investments in fiber and network improvements, with expectations for continued growth despite competitive pressures [30][34]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $1.8 billion, or $4.35 per share, reflecting strong performance across the franchise [3][12] - Total revenue reached a record $5.9 billion, up $254 million, or 4% from the previous quarter [11][12] - Non-interest expense increased by $78 million, or 2%, resulting in over 200 basis points of positive operating leverage [11][12] - The net charge-off ratio remained low at 22 basis points, indicating strong credit quality [3][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In retail banking, consumer demand deposit accounts (DDAs) grew by 2% year-over-year, with a notable 6% growth in the Southwest region [4] - The asset management business saw client growth and positive net flows, particularly in expansion markets [5] - Commercial loans increased by $3.4 billion, or 2%, driven by growth in the commercial and industrial (CNI) portfolio [8][9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average deposits increased by $9 billion, or 2%, with strong growth in commercial interest-bearing deposits, which rose by 7% [10] - Non-interest-bearing deposits remained stable at $93 billion, constituting 21% of total deposits [10] - The company anticipates a decline in the rate paid on deposits in the fourth quarter due to expected Fed rate cuts [10][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth and strategic acquisitions, such as the recent announcement to acquire FirstBank, which will enhance its market share in Colorado [5][27] - The company aims to complete over 200 branch builds by the end of 2029, indicating a commitment to expanding its retail footprint [4] - The management emphasized a selective approach to acquisitions, avoiding a deal frenzy while pursuing opportunities that align with growth strategies [27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management expressed cautious optimism about the economy, expecting real GDP growth to be below 2% in 2025 and unemployment to peak above 4.5% in mid-2026 [17] - The company expects net interest income (NII) to grow approximately 1.5% in the fourth quarter, with total revenue anticipated to be stable to down 1% [17][18] - Management highlighted strong consumer spending and corporate client optimism as positive indicators for the economy [3][4] Other Important Information - The company returned $1 billion of capital to shareholders during the quarter, including $679 million in common dividends and $331 million in share repurchases [8] - The tangible book value per common share increased by 4% linked quarter and 11% year-over-year, reflecting strong capital position [7] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin performance and outlook - Management expects net interest margin (NIM) to continue expanding, with a target of exceeding 3% in 2026, despite a temporary decline due to commercial deposit growth [20][22] Question: Expense expectations for the fourth quarter - Management indicated that expenses are expected to rise due to seasonal factors and increased business activity, with a full-year expense growth expectation of 1.5% [24][25] Question: Scale and growth opportunities - The company is focused on organic growth and strategic acquisitions, with a commitment to maintaining pace in retail and commercial banking [27] Question: Commercial loan growth and demand - Management noted a slight strengthening in commercial loan demand, particularly in M&A financing, with expectations for commercial real estate balances to turn positive in 2026 [30][41] Question: Capital levels and regulatory environment - The company is well-capitalized with a CET1 ratio of 10.6%, and management is assessing capital levels in light of potential regulatory changes [45][46] Question: Consumer spending trends - Management observed robust consumer spending across all segments, driven by wealth effects among higher-income clients [68][69]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a strong quarter with solid organic growth in both loan and deposit portfolios, contributing to strong capital accumulation and favorable capital ratios [3][4] - The core net interest margin for the quarter was 4.55%, with expectations of slight compression to 4.50% due to deposit cost pressures and potential further rate cuts [20][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth remains robust, with expectations of high single-digit year-over-year growth, despite potential lumpy paydowns [9][10] - Loan fee income has increased, now representing about 40 basis points of the margin, driven by successful sales efforts and a robust deal market [21][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The current loan pricing dynamics show new loans coming in slightly below the previous average of 7.4%, with more pressure observed on the deposit side [12] - The mortgage business is currently slow, with expectations for improvement in 2026, although the pipeline has increased compared to six months ago [31][32] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is actively pursuing M&A opportunities, focusing on strategic combinations, although current market conditions present challenges due to factors like AOCI and long maturity loans [13][35] - The acquisition of a mortgage operation is seen as a strategic move to enhance service offerings to high-net-worth clients, with expectations for gradual growth in this segment [32][33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the current market conditions and the company's positioning, highlighting strong liquidity, capital, earnings, and margins [3][4] - Concerns about macroeconomic volatility have led to increased reserves, reflecting a cautious approach to credit amidst growth [22][23] Other Important Information - The company anticipates a similar run rate for core fee income and non-interest expenses in the upcoming quarter, with oil and gas revenue being less predictable [29] - Credit trends remain strong, with no significant migrations in criticized or classified loans during the quarter [39] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook for Q4 and 2026 - The company expects high single-digit year-over-year growth, with a good current pipeline despite potential paydowns [9][10] Question: Loan pricing dynamics - New loans are slightly below the previous average of 7.4%, with more pressure on deposits than loans [12] Question: M&A activity update - The company is actively looking at various transactions and remains competitive in the M&A space [13][35] Question: Net interest margin trajectory - Expected slight compression in net interest margin due to deposit cost pressures and rate cuts [20] Question: Credit trends and reserve increases - Credit performance was strong, with a decision to increase reserves due to macroeconomic volatility [22][23] Question: Mortgage business outlook - The mortgage business is slow but expected to improve in 2026, with a stronger pipeline than six months ago [31][32]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net loss of $29.7 million, or $1.57 per diluted share for the quarter, impacted by a bond portfolio repositioning that resulted in a realized loss of $53.4 million [8][9] - Net interest income for the period was $62.5 million, an increase of $12.7 million linked quarter, with a margin improvement to 4.45%, up 28 basis points from the previous quarter [9][10] - Non-interest expenses for the quarter were $49.1 million, adjusted to exclude M&A charges, reflecting an increase of 8.3% due to the NBC Oklahoma acquisition [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The merger with NBC Oklahoma added $665 million in loans and $808 million in deposits, enhancing the company's footprint in Oklahoma [3][4] - Non-interest income, excluding the impact of the portfolio repositioning, was $8.9 million, driven by improvements in customer service charge line items [9] - Loan production in the quarter was $243 million, up 23% linked quarter, with an average rate of 7.14% [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits increased approximately $860 million during the quarter, with organic deposit growth of approximately $37 million [21] - Non-interest-bearing accounts closed the quarter at 22.52% of total deposits, up from 21.56% at the end of Q2 [21] - The company anticipates closing the Frontier Holdings transaction in 2025, which will further expand its market presence [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to grow through strategic mergers, having successfully integrated NBC Oklahoma and planning to enter Nebraska through Frontier Holdings [4][5] - Management expressed confidence in executing growth strategies and achieving a projected earnings per share of $5 by 2026 [23] - The company is focused on enhancing its community banking model while expanding its footprint and asset generation capabilities [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains positive about the credit environment, noting stable credit quality trends across the portfolio despite broader economic uncertainties [14] - The company is closely monitoring consumer behavior and potential inflation impacts, with no significant strain observed in its loan portfolio [36] - Management expects to leverage its capital for growth while maintaining a strong return for shareholders [23] Other Important Information - The company completed a system conversion in late August, with associated expenses primarily impacting the fourth quarter [10] - The ending reserve ratio closed the quarter at 1.36%, reflecting the addition of non-PCE credit marks from NBC Oklahoma [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Could you discuss your deposit pricing strategy? - Management indicated a consistent approach to adjusting deposit rates in line with FOMC rate changes, with no significant competitive shifts observed [25][26] Question: How is business sentiment in your operating footprint? - Management reported strong business sentiment with no significant impacts from tariffs, remaining bullish on market conditions [28] Question: What is the outlook for loan growth? - Management expects loan production to continue improving, supported by new market entries and a strong pipeline [34] Question: Are there areas of strain in your portfolio? - Management is monitoring various sectors, including agriculture and consumer loans, but currently sees no significant issues [36] Question: What is the outlook for M&A activity? - Management remains optimistic about M&A opportunities, focusing on strategic fit and integration potential [63]

Equity Bancshares (NYSE:EQBK) Q3 2025 Earnings Call October 15, 2025 10:00 AM ET Company ParticipantsTerry McEvoy - Managing DirectorBrian Katzfey - VP and Director of Corporate Development and Investor RelationsChris Navratil - CFOBrett Elliott - Chairman and CEORick Sems - Bank CEOConference Call ParticipantsNathan Race - Managing Director and Senior Research AnalystJeff Riley - AnalystDamon DelMonte - Managing Director and Equity Research AnalystBrett Robinson - AnalystOperatorThank you for your patience ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a strong quarter with solid organic growth in both loan and deposit portfolios, contributing to strong capital accumulation and robust capital ratios [3][4] - The core net interest margin for the quarter was 4.55%, with expectations of slight compression to 4.50% due to deposit cost pressures and potential further rate cuts [18][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was highlighted as a key area of strength, with expectations of high single-digit year-over-year growth continuing into 2026 [9] - Loan fee income has increased, now representing about 40 basis points of the margin, driven by successful sales efforts and a robust deal market [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted increased volatility in the macroeconomic environment, which has influenced credit trends and reserve levels [21][22] - The mortgage business remains slow, with expectations for improvement in 2026, although the pipeline has shown increased activity compared to six months ago [30][31] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is actively pursuing M&A opportunities, although challenges remain due to market conditions and seller expectations [12][33] - The strategic acquisition of a mortgage operation is seen as a positive move, enhancing the company's ability to serve high-net-worth clients [31][32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the current market conditions and the company's positioning, despite acknowledging potential macroeconomic challenges [3][4] - There is a cautious approach to credit provisioning, with management indicating that future reserves may depend on macro conditions and portfolio growth [23][24] Other Important Information - The company emphasized the importance of maintaining strong capital levels and liquidity as part of its risk management strategy [21][22] - Management highlighted the benign nature of credit migrations during the quarter, indicating overall stability in the credit portfolio [38] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook for Q4 and 2026 - Management expects high single-digit year-over-year growth in loans, with a good current pipeline despite potential paydowns [9] Question: Loan pricing dynamics and competition - New loans are expected to be priced slightly below 7.4%, with more pressure on deposit pricing than on loans [11] Question: Net interest margin trajectory - Anticipated slight compression in net interest margin due to rate cuts, potentially down to 4.47% [18] Question: Loan fee income dynamics - Loan fee income has been strong due to a robust deal market, but may trend back toward normal levels [20] Question: Credit trends and reserve increases - Credit performance was strong, but reserves were increased due to macroeconomic volatility [21][22] Question: Outlook for fees and expenses - Core fee income and non-interest expenses are expected to remain stable, with oil and gas revenue being less predictable [28] Question: Mortgage business expectations - The mortgage business is slow, but there is hope for improvement in 2026, with increased pipeline activity noted [30][31] Question: Challenges in M&A activity - The company faces challenges due to market conditions and seller expectations, but remains active in seeking strategic opportunities [33]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net loss of $29.7 million, or $1.57 per diluted share for the quarter, impacted by a bond portfolio repositioning that resulted in a realized loss of $53.4 million [8] - Net interest income for the period was $62.5 million, an increase of $12.7 million linked quarter, with a margin improvement of 28 basis points to 4.45% [9][15] - Non-interest expenses for the quarter were $49.1 million, adjusted to exclude M&A charges, reflecting an increase of 8.3% due to the NBC Oklahoma acquisition [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The merger with NBC Oklahoma added $665 million in loans and $808 million in deposits, enhancing the company's market presence in Oklahoma [3][4] - Loan production in the quarter was $243 million, up 23% linked quarter, with originations averaging a rate of 7.14% [19] - Total deposits increased approximately $860 million during the quarter, with organic deposit growth of approximately $37 million [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is expanding its footprint into Nebraska through a merger with Frontier Holdings, which is expected to add strong earning assets [4][5] - Non-interest-bearing accounts increased to 22.52% of total deposits, up from 21.56% at the end of Q2 [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to grow through strategic mergers, having successfully integrated NBC Oklahoma and planning to enter the Nebraska market [4][5] - Management expressed confidence in executing growth strategies and achieving a projected earnings per share of $5 in 2026 [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains positive about the credit environment and expects stable credit quality trends despite broader economic uncertainties [13] - The company anticipates margin in a range of 4.4% to 4.5% for the fourth quarter, with expectations for continued growth in the balance sheet and non-interest revenue lines [16][22] Other Important Information - The company completed a subordinated debt raise of $75 million to support ongoing growth initiatives [4] - The ending reserve ratio closed the quarter at 1.36%, reflecting the addition of non-PCE credit marks from NBC Oklahoma [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Could you discuss your deposit pricing strategy? - The company has consistently adjusted deposit rates in line with FOMC rate cuts, with no significant shifts observed in the market [24][25] Question: What is the sentiment in your operating footprint regarding loan growth? - Management reported strong business sentiment and does not see significant impacts from tariffs, remaining bullish on market conditions [25] Question: Was the increase in deposit costs linked to NBC Oklahoma? - The increase in deposit costs was entirely attributable to liabilities from the NBC Oklahoma transaction [27][28] Question: What are the expectations for loan payoffs? - Payoff activity is expected to normalize, with historical averages anticipated to return, contributing to loan growth [30][31] Question: How is the company monitoring potential strains in the credit portfolio? - Management is closely watching all areas, particularly consumer and agricultural sectors, but currently sees no significant strain [33][34] Question: What is the outlook for M&A activity? - The company continues to explore M&A opportunities, focusing on strategic fit and integration potential [55]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported strong organic growth in both loan and deposit portfolios, contributing to solid quarterly results [4][5] - The core net interest margin (NIM) ended the quarter at 4.55%, with expectations of slight compression due to potential rate cuts [24][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan fee income has increased and now represents about 40 basis points of the margin, driven by successful sales efforts and a robust deal market [25][26] - The mortgage business is currently slow, but there is an expectation for improvement in 2026, with a significant increase in the pipeline compared to six months ago [39][41] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing pressure on the deposit side compared to the loan side, indicating competitive dynamics in the market [14][15] - There is ongoing deal activity in the market, but challenges remain due to macroeconomic factors affecting M&A transactions [44][46] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining strong capital levels while navigating macroeconomic volatility, which influences credit provisioning decisions [27][29] - The strategic acquisition in the mortgage sector is seen as a niche service that could grow into a more significant income provider over time [41][43] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the current market conditions and the company's positioning, despite acknowledging potential economic challenges [5][6] - There is a cautious outlook on loan growth due to the possibility of lumpy paydowns and macroeconomic uncertainties [12][13] Other Important Information - The company is actively exploring M&A opportunities, although current market conditions present challenges for potential transactions [46][47] - Credit performance remains strong, with no significant migrations in classified loans during the quarter [51] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook for Q4 and 2026 - Management expects high single-digit year-over-year growth, with a good pipeline but acknowledges potential lumpy paydowns [13] Question: Loan pricing dynamics and competition - New loans are slightly below the previous average of 7.4%, with more pressure on deposit pricing than on loans [14][15] Question: M&A activity update - The company is actively looking at various transactions and remains open to strategic combinations [16][17] Question: Net interest margin trajectory - NIM is expected to experience slight compression due to rate cuts, potentially dropping to around 4.47% [24][25] Question: Loan fee income dynamics - The increase in loan fee income is attributed to strong sales performance and a robust deal market, though it may trend back to normal levels [25][26] Question: Credit trends and reserve increases - The decision to increase reserves was based on portfolio growth and macroeconomic volatility, with a focus on maintaining credit integrity [27][29] Question: Expectations around fees and expenses - Core fee income and noninterest expenses are expected to remain stable, with oil and gas revenues being less predictable [35] Question: Mortgage business outlook - The mortgage business is currently slow, but there is hope for improvement in 2026, with a significant increase in the transaction pipeline [39][41] Question: Challenges in M&A today - The overhang of AOCI and long maturity loans are keeping some sellers hesitant, impacting M&A activity [44][46]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a strong quarter with solid organic growth in both loan and deposit portfolios, contributing to strong capital accumulation and robust capital ratios [3][4] - The core net interest margin for the quarter was reported at 4.55%, with expectations of slight compression to 4.50% due to deposit cost pressures and potential further rate cuts [18][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was highlighted as a key area of strength, with expectations of high single-digit year-over-year growth continuing into 2026 [9] - Loan fee income has increased significantly, now representing about 40 basis points of the margin, driven by a robust deal market and successful sales efforts [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that the mortgage business remains slow, with expectations for improvement in 2026, although current conditions are challenging due to high fallout rates and affordability issues [30][31] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is actively pursuing M&A opportunities, although challenges remain due to market conditions and seller expectations [12][33] - The strategic acquisition of a mortgage operation was emphasized as a move to enhance service offerings to high-net-worth clients, with a focus on niche markets [31][32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the current market conditions and the company's positioning, despite acknowledging macroeconomic uncertainties [3][4] - Concerns regarding credit trends were addressed, with management indicating a cautious approach to provisioning in light of portfolio growth and macro volatility [21][22] Other Important Information - The company highlighted the importance of maintaining strong capital levels and the prudent approach to credit risk management in a volatile environment [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook for Q4 and 2026 - Management expects high single-digit year-over-year growth in loans, with a good pipeline of activity [9] Question: Loan pricing dynamics and competition - New loans are expected to be priced slightly below 7.4%, with more pressure on deposit pricing than on loans [11] Question: M&A activity update - The company is actively exploring M&A opportunities, with a disciplined approach to potential transactions [12][33] Question: Net interest margin trajectory - A slight decline in net interest margin is anticipated due to deposit cost pressures and rate cuts [18] Question: Credit trends and reserve increases - Credit performance was strong, with a slight increase in reserves due to macroeconomic concerns [21][38] Question: Outlook for fees and expenses - Core fee income is expected to maintain a similar run rate, with oil and gas revenue being less predictable [28] Question: Mortgage business expectations - The mortgage business is currently slow, but there is hope for improvement in 2026, with a stronger pipeline than six months ago [30][31]