Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q2 2025, revenue was flat, operating income decreased by 4%, and diluted earnings per share fell by less than 1% compared to the prior year, primarily due to inflationary cost pressures [11][12] - The company generated over $225 million in free cash flow during the quarter, maintaining a strong cash flow despite challenging market conditions [10][14] - The average diluted share count was 5% lower than the prior year, which partially offset the declines in earnings [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Intermodal volumes increased by 6% year-over-year, with a notable 15% growth in Eastern volumes, while Transcon volumes decreased by 1% [30][31] - The dedicated business showed resilience with fleet losses subsiding, and the company is excited about returning to fleet growth [8][39] - The brokerage business is still working on right-sizing its cost structure while focusing on growth with the right customers [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Overall customer demand trended modestly below normal seasonality, with intermodal service demand remaining strong [16][17] - Truckload spot rates remained soft, indicating excess capacity in the truckload market [18] - The company is observing diverse customer strategies in response to trade policy changes, impacting their supply chain and capacity plans [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on operational excellence, scaling investments in people, technology, and capacity, while also repairing margins and improving financial performance [4][6] - A new initiative to lower the cost to serve has identified $100 million in annual cost reductions across efficiency, asset utilization, and technology improvements [12][13] - The company aims to maintain a strong balance sheet with minimal leverage while returning value to shareholders through dividends and stock repurchases [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains confident in the company's ability to capitalize on growth opportunities despite market uncertainties [5][9] - The company is preparing for future growth while focusing on controlling expenses in the near term to preserve future earnings potential [6][9] - Management highlighted the importance of customer relationships and service levels, which have led to high customer retention rates [19] Other Important Information - The company repurchased a record $319 million of stock during the second quarter, reflecting its strong cash flow and commitment to returning value to shareholders [14] - The launch of the Quantum service in Mexico is expected to drive growth in that market, which has been the fastest-growing channel for the company [34] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on bid season performance and revenue per load - Management indicated that mix plays a significant role in revenue per load, with Transcon volumes down and Eastern volumes up, reflecting customer adjustments to tariffs and imports [42][43] Question: Details on the $100 million cost savings initiative - The $100 million identified for cost savings is part of ongoing efforts to address excess equipment and improve asset utilization, with savings expected to be proportionate to spending levels across segments [50][52] Question: Cost improvement initiatives specific to ICS - Management noted that significant cost reductions have been achieved in ICS, with a focus on efficiency and span of control, leading to a notable decrease in operating expenses year-over-year [58][64] Question: Discussion on intermodal margins and pricing - Management expressed optimism about stabilizing intermodal margins through cost initiatives and modest pricing improvements, emphasizing that growth and cost control are equally important for margin recovery [84][88] Question: Customer uncertainty around forecasting demand for peak season - Management acknowledged the challenges in forecasting demand due to diverse customer strategies and trade policy changes, but emphasized readiness to meet demand when it arises [101][104]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for Q4 2025 was $17.2 million, representing a 71% increase year-over-year [9][24] - For fiscal year 2025, total revenue reached $59.8 million, a 115% increase compared to fiscal year 2024 [24] - Gross margin improved to 44.3% in Q4 2025 from 13.9% in the prior year [10][25] - Fiscal year 2025 gross margin was 40.5%, up from 1.3% in fiscal year 2024 [11][25] - GAAP net loss for Q4 2025 was $51.1 million, compared to a loss of $22.3 million in the prior year [29] - Adjusted EBITDA loss for Q4 2025 was $20.3 million, compared to a loss of $16.5 million in the prior year [29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Assure system generated over 3,900 prescriptions in Q4 2025, a 43% increase year-over-year [9] - Revenue growth was driven by a higher mix of in-network patients and improvements in revenue cycle management capabilities [24][25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Covered lives for the Assure system now total over 285 million health plan members in the U.S. [13] - The company is targeting geographies with high volumes of WCD prescriptions and strong in-network payer coverage [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to expand its commercial team and enhance revenue cycle management capabilities [11][12] - Plans to nearly double sales coverage over the next few years, increasing from approximately 80 sales territories [12] - The company is focused on continuous innovation and has over 365 patent assets [14][15] - The goal is to make the Assure system the standard of care for patients at risk of sudden cardiac arrest [23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving significant operating leverage and gross margin expansion over the next few years [11][30] - The company expects revenue of $85 million for fiscal year 2026, a 42% increase compared to fiscal year 2025 [30] - Management highlighted the underutilization of WCD therapy, indicating a significant market opportunity [16][17] Other Important Information - The company is not subject to competitive bidding due to the Assure system being a class III medical device [26] - The company is focused on building clinical evidence to support the safety and efficacy of the Assure system [15][84] Q&A Session Summary Question: Guidance for fiscal year 2026 and underlying assumptions - Management indicated that revenue growth will be driven by sales territory productivity, expansion plans, and penetration of existing accounts [33][35] Question: Margin expansion potential - Management noted that margin expansion is expected due to increasing volumes and improved revenue per fit [37][38] Question: Sole source contract with a provider network - Management explained that the contract allows for better patient management and smoother revenue cycle processes [40][42] Question: Seasonality considerations for fiscal year 2026 - Management stated that prescription growth is expected to average 40% per quarter, with higher conversion rates in the first half of the year [44][45] Question: Competitive response and guidance - Management clarified that the guidance reflects normal scaling and territory ramp-up, with no significant competitive issues [48][50] Question: Conversion rate drivers - Management identified fill rate, claim conversion, and in-network patient mix as key drivers of the conversion rate [59][61] Question: Plans for randomized trials - Management is focused on executing the post-approval study and leveraging the data from the registry [83][85]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Organic growth for Q2 2025 was 3%, aligning with expectations, while non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA margin remained flat at 15.3% compared to the previous year [5][20]. - Non-GAAP adjusted net income per share increased by 5.1% to $2.50, compared to the same period in 2024 [6][32]. - Cash flow supported dividends, acquisitions, and share repurchases, with $223 million used for share repurchases in the first half of 2025, on track for a total of $600 million for the year [6][35]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Media and advertising grew by 8%, driven by strong media performance, while precision marketing increased by 5% [24]. - Public relations saw a decline of 9%, primarily in the U.S., due to weaker performance in global networks [25]. - Healthcare revenues decreased by 5%, and branding and retail commerce fell by 17% due to market uncertainties [26][27]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. market experienced organic growth of 3%, while Asia Pacific and Continental Europe also posted solid growth, with the UK being the only region without growth [28]. - The auto category saw year-over-year increases, reflecting new business wins, although some client spend reductions were noted [28]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on completing the acquisition of Interpublic, with 13 out of 18 required jurisdictions approved, aiming for a seamless integration [7][10]. - A reorganization of advanced data and technology assets into a platform organization was implemented to enhance client service and accelerate growth [10][11]. - The strategy emphasizes the integration of generative AI to enhance creativity and operational efficiency, positioning the company for long-term competitive advantage [14][18]. Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while macroeconomic uncertainties persist, they remain confident in achieving full-year organic growth and margin targets [13][20]. - The company is prepared to adapt to changing market conditions and is optimistic about future growth opportunities, particularly post-acquisition [70][71]. Other Important Information - The company has appointed a new Chief People Officer to enhance HR capabilities and attract top talent [12]. - The integration planning for Interpublic is ongoing, with a focus on achieving identified synergies [13][76]. Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you speak to the progression of things since your last update in April? - Management indicated that the environment has not changed significantly, with ongoing macro concerns being manageable [40][41]. Question: How do you view the sustainability and growth of principal trading? - Management expressed confidence in the continued growth of media, highlighting their unique product offerings [46][47]. Question: What is the expected impact of AI agents on financials? - The deployment of AI agents is expected to enhance operational efficiency and drive top-line growth, although the full financial impact is yet to be determined [60][62]. Question: How do you view the current pipeline of opportunities? - Management noted that while some decision processes have slowed, they continue to be invited to significant pitches, indicating ongoing interest from clients [88][89]. Question: How should repositioning and acquisition-related costs be modeled for the year? - Management clarified that repositioning costs are separate from the synergy target and do not expect further charges in the near term [82][83]. Question: How does the company view the impact of new AI tools on the creative business model? - Management believes that advancements in AI will enhance creativity and efficiency, allowing for new compensation models based on outcomes rather than time spent [106][111].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an adjusted net income of $118 million or $1.37 per share for the second quarter, compared to $120 million or $1.38 per share in the first quarter [12] - The net interest margin (NIM) expanded by six basis points, reaching 1.37% after adjusting for transaction-related expenses [5][12] - Total loans increased by $364 million or 6% annualized, driven by stronger demand and increased line utilization [5][12] - Total deposits decreased by $148 million, primarily due to a reduction in certificates of deposit (CDs) [6][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fee income grew by $4 million or 4%, with trust fees being the primary driver of this growth [12][13] - The efficiency ratio improved to 54.91% from 55.22% in the previous quarter, indicating better cost management [13] - The company added 10 net new bankers during the quarter, contributing to its organic growth strategy [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a solid allowance for credit losses at 1.45%, indicating a strong position to navigate economic challenges [10] - Criticized commercial loans decreased by 4% to $594 million, while nonaccrual loans decreased by 9% to $95 million [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on organic growth, with a guidance of low single-digit loan growth for 2025, inferring mid single-digit growth for the second half of the year [6][12] - The company is optimistic about its growth prospects, particularly in the Dallas market, with plans to open five new financial centers [9] - The acquisition of Sable Trust Company is expected to enhance the company's capabilities and client base [7][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the dynamic macroeconomic environment but expressed confidence in the company's ample liquidity and strong capital ratios [10] - The management noted that clients have become less sensitive to economic headlines and are returning to making business decisions based on facts [30] - The company expects modest NIM expansion and net interest income (NII) growth of 3-4% for the year [17] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 750,000 shares of common stock during the quarter, reflecting its commitment to returning capital to shareholders [7][19] - The company anticipates two rate cuts of 25 basis points in September and December, which may impact deposit costs and NIM [17][44] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the target CET1 ratio for buybacks? - Management indicated a comfortable operating range for Tier 1 common capital between 11% and 11.5% and around 8% for TCE [23][24] Question: What is the outlook for loan growth and borrower health? - Management noted that net new loans to new clients are the primary driver for growth, with a positive outlook barring macroeconomic changes [29][30] Question: Can you provide more insight into NIM outlook? - Management expects NIM to continue expanding in the second half of the year, driven by loan growth and reduced deposit costs [41][44] Question: How much of the expense base came from the Sable acquisition? - The increase in expenses related to Sable was approximately $2.5 million for the quarter [50] Question: What is the outlook for criticized loans? - Management reported a decrease in criticized loans and expressed confidence in the portfolio's health moving forward [105][106] Question: What is the company's stance on M&A? - Management reiterated that M&A is not a current focus but remains opportunistic for the future [58][112]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Reported earnings per share (EPS) increased to $2.17 compared to $2.15 in the prior year period, marking an 18% year-over-year increase when excluding notable items [7][9] - Total revenue increased by 9% year-over-year, while fee revenue rose by 12%, both excluding notable items [18] - Pre-tax margin expanded to nearly 30%, and return on tangible common equity (ROTCE) was approximately 19%, excluding notable items [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Investment Services secured over $1 trillion in new asset servicing wins, generating $145 million in new servicing fee revenue [9][10] - Asset management business, rebranded as State Street Investment Management, achieved a record AUM exceeding $5 trillion, with quarterly net inflows over $80 billion [10][11] - FX trading revenue increased by 27% year-over-year, driven by record client volumes [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - AUCA reached a record $49 trillion, up 11% year-over-year, supported by higher market levels and client flows [19] - The U.S. low-cost ETF market segment saw continued market share gains, with State Street's ETFs leading in trading volume [11][22] - Securities finance revenues increased by 17% year-over-year, reflecting strong balance growth across agency lending and prime services [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on disciplined execution of its strategy, aiming for consistent growth and operational excellence [6][14] - The rebranding of the asset management business reflects a commitment to innovation and deepening client relationships [10] - The next generation of the operating model transformation is a priority, with a focus on operational efficiency and productivity gains supported by AI [14][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged significant financial market volatility due to geopolitical and economic uncertainty but highlighted strong business momentum and financial performance [5][6] - The company expects total fee revenue growth for 2025 to be in the range of 5% to 7%, an improvement from the previous outlook of 3% to 5% [32] - Management remains committed to returning capital to shareholders, with plans to increase the quarterly dividend by 11% [13][31] Other Important Information - Notable items totaled $138 million pretax, primarily due to a repositioning charge associated with the operating model transformation [17] - The company generated over $1 billion in expense savings over the last three years, with expectations to increase that to over $1.5 billion by year-end 2025 [13][29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry on fees and fee operating leverage - Management indicated that the pace of sales remains strong, with a target of $350 million to $400 million in servicing fees for the year, supported by a record level of fees to be installed [35][36][38] Question: Clarification on new wins and client rescoping - Management does not anticipate further issues related to client rescoping and emphasized the importance of back-office elements in new mandates [39][40][42] Question: Discussion on net interest income (NII) and its outlook - Management confirmed guidance for NII to remain roughly flat year-over-year, acknowledging variability due to factors like deposit mix and interest rates [45][49][54] Question: Thoughts on M&A activity in the industry - Management expressed confidence in organic growth capabilities but remains open to M&A as a complement to strategy, emphasizing a high bar for any potential acquisitions [56][58] Question: Insights on asset management business and net inflows - Management noted consistent organic growth in the institutional channel, driven by innovative products and strong relationships with investment consultants [62][64] Question: Regulatory environment and tier one leverage ratio - Management acknowledged the current constraints of the tier one leverage ratio but indicated a constructive environment for potential regulatory changes in the future [67][68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $4 billion and earnings per share of $1.96, with a return on tangible common equity (ROTCE) of 8.7% [4][19] - Revenues increased by 8% year-over-year, driven by growth across all business lines, with total revenues reaching $21.7 billion [4][19] - Net interest income excluding markets rose by 7%, while non-interest revenues, excluding markets, increased by 1% [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Services revenue grew by 8%, with a ROTCE of 23% for the quarter, driven by robust growth in loans and deposits [5][30] - Markets revenues increased by 16%, with fixed income revenues up 20% and equities revenues up 6% [6][31] - Investment banking fees rose by 13%, with M&A activity up 52% and equity capital markets (ECM) up 25% [33] - Wealth management revenues surged by 20%, with a pretax margin of 29% [35] - U.S. Personal Banking (USPB) revenues increased by 6%, driven by branded cards and retail banking [37] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced strong client activity in both fixed income and equities, with significant growth in prime services and derivatives [6][31] - The average loans increased by 3% across the firm, with a diversified deposit base also growing by 3% [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing its strategy with discipline, improving performance and returns across its businesses while advancing their strategic positions [5][12] - Investments in digital assets and stablecoin infrastructure are being prioritized to enhance competitiveness and client offerings [13][86] - The company aims to achieve a ROTCE target of 10% to 11% next year, viewing it as a waypoint rather than a destination [18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the resilience of the U.S. economy, driven by strong consumer activity and entrepreneurial spirit [15] - The company anticipates some macroeconomic uncertainties but remains optimistic about its trajectory and ability to deliver for clients [16] - The outlook for the full year has been adjusted to expect revenues around $84 billion, with net interest income excluding markets projected to rise closer to 4% [40] Other Important Information - The company returned over $3 billion in capital to shareholders, including $2 billion in share repurchases [9][10] - The CET1 capital ratio stood at 13.5%, significantly above regulatory requirements, with plans for continued share repurchases [10][27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Long-term return profile beyond 2026 - Management refrained from providing specific targets for 2027 but expressed confidence in the firm's strategy and performance across its business lines [45][46] Question: Revenue forecast for the second half of the year - Management acknowledged the seasonality in the second half and indicated that the forecast includes expected market softness [60][64] Question: Capital management and regulatory reforms - Management discussed the binding constraint of standardized CET1 and the ongoing assessment of capital buffers in light of regulatory changes [68][70] Question: Transformation costs and consent order - Management indicated that transformation costs are expected to increase in 2025 but will trend down in 2026, with ongoing efforts to improve operational efficiency [90][94]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $5.5 billion, or $1.6 per diluted common share, which is an increase from both the first quarter and the previous year [26] - Return on tangible common equity improved, reflecting the company's focus on strategic priorities and expense discipline [5][26] - Non-interest income increased by $348 million, or 4% year-over-year, benefiting from the gain associated with the Merchant Services joint venture transaction [29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consumer Small and Business Banking revenue increased by 3% year-over-year, driven by lower deposit costs and higher deposit balances [36] - Investment banking fees rose by 9% year-over-year, contributing to the growth in non-interest income [29] - Auto revenue decreased by 15% year-over-year due to lower loan balances, although it increased by 2% from the first quarter [38] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average deposits increased by 4% year-over-year, although total average deposits declined by 1% due to a reduction in higher-cost corporate treasury deposits [28] - Commercial net loan charge-offs increased slightly, but overall credit performance remained strong with a decline in consumer net loan charge-offs [31][32] - The company expects to be more aggressive in pursuing consumer and corporate deposits now that the asset cap has been lifted [12][13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The lifting of the asset cap is seen as a pivotal milestone, allowing the company to focus more on growth and future opportunities [6][10] - The company plans to allocate more capital to grow loans and deposits, particularly in the corporate and investment banking sectors [12][14] - There is a commitment to maintaining a strong capital position while also returning excess capital to shareholders through dividends and stock buybacks [14][35] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the strength of consumers and businesses, citing low unemployment and controlled inflation [21] - There is recognition of potential economic uncertainties, but management remains hopeful about the outcomes of current trade negotiations [23] - The company is focused on driving efficiencies and leveraging technology to enhance productivity while pursuing growth [86] Other Important Information - The company plans to increase its common stock dividend by 12.5% to $0.45 per share, subject to Board approval [14] - The expected stress capital buffer will decrease by 120 basis points starting in the fourth quarter, allowing for a lower CET1 regulatory minimum [13][34] - The company has repurchased over $6 billion of common stock in the first half of the year and authorized an additional repurchase program of up to $40 billion [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth assumptions for the second half of the year - Management expects modest growth in consumer loans, particularly in credit cards and auto loans, while mortgage loans are anticipated to decline slightly [46][47] Question: Total revenue outlook for the year - Management indicated that fee income is expected to remain stable, with investment advisory fees being supportive for the remainder of the year [49][50] Question: Impact of the asset cap removal on medium-term return targets - Management emphasized that the removal of the asset cap opens options for growth but does not imply immediate dramatic changes [61][62] Question: Retail deposit growth in a competitive landscape - The company plans to increase marketing efforts and expand its footprint to drive primary checking account growth and overall deposit growth [74][78] Question: Net interest income outlook amid potential rate cuts - Management noted that while rate cuts could impact net interest income, they expect continued growth from deposit repricing and loan growth [90]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $15.3 million or $0.86 per diluted share, with adjusted earnings of $16.6 million or $0.94 per diluted share [9] - Net interest income for the period was $49.8 million, an increase of $1.8 million linked quarter, with a margin of 4.17%, improving by 10 basis points compared to the previous quarter [9][10] - The tangible common equity (TCE) ratio closed at 10.63%, up 41% year-over-year, and tangible book value per share increased by 25% to $32.17 [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan balances year-to-date increased by $100 million, while deposits, excluding seasonal public funds, remained stable [6] - Non-interest income for the quarter was $8.6 million, up $500,000 from Q1, driven by improvements in customer service charge line items [10] - Production in the quarter totaled $197 million, in line with prior period organic production and double that of Q2 2024 [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-accrual loans increased to $42.6 million, up $18.3 million from the previous quarter, primarily due to a specific QSR relationship [14] - Total classified assets closed at $71 million, representing 11.4% of total bank regulatory capital, remaining below historical averages [14] - Delinquency over thirty days decreased to $16.8 million, with net charge-offs annualized at six basis points for the quarter [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company successfully closed its merger with NBC Bank on July 2, 2025, enhancing its presence in Oklahoma [4][5] - The management emphasized a dual strategy of organic growth and strategic mergers and acquisitions (M&A) [7][25] - The company is focused on maintaining a disciplined approach to M&A opportunities, emphasizing value while controlling dilution [25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about maintaining spread and improving earnings through repositioning of earning assets throughout 2025 [10] - The company has not seen significant concerns in its operating markets that would indicate economic challenges on the horizon [11] - Management remains positive on credit quality trends, with expectations for continued sound credit performance despite broader economic uncertainties [16] Other Important Information - The company plans to refinance its outstanding subordinated debt issue within the month [11] - The management team is focused on growing relationships and deepening wallet share, which is expected to benefit the company in the future [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Plans for the NBC Bank bond portfolio - The NBC Bank bond portfolio was sold prior to acquisition, resulting in cash balances being brought over, with no immediate actions required [28] Question: Stress within the QSR portfolio - There are softer operating numbers from other borrowers in the QSR sector, but diversification within the portfolio mitigates risks [32] Question: Non-interest expenses decline - The decline in non-interest expenses is predominantly due to M&A savings from the NBC deal [35] Question: Loan growth outlook for the second half of the year - The company is optimistic about continued loan growth, with pipelines at their highest levels and strong activity in C&I lending [49] Question: Margin outlook and deposit growth - The core margin is expected to maintain around 4.17%, with continued opportunities for repricing in both loans and deposits [57] Question: Opportunities in Wichita and aircraft lending - The company's exposure to the aircraft industry is minimal, and there is no significant impact from the aviation sector on the overall business [62] Question: M&A target size range - The company is focusing on institutions between $250 million and $1.5 billion for potential acquisitions [69]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Earnings per share (EPS) of $1.93 increased by 27% year over year, and by 28% excluding notable items [7][21] - Total revenue rose by 9% year over year, exceeding $5 billion for the first time in a quarter [7][17] - Pre-tax margin improved to 37%, and return on tangible common equity increased to 28% [7][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Security Services reported total revenue of $2.5 billion, up 10% year over year, with investment services fees growing by 10% [26] - Marks and Wealth Services segment revenue increased by 13% year over year to $1.7 billion, with net interest income up 21% [29] - Investment and Wealth Management segment revenue decreased by 2% year over year, with assets under management at $2.1 trillion, reflecting a 3% increase [30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Firm-wide assets under custody and administration (AUCA) reached $55.8 trillion, up 13% year over year [19] - Foreign exchange revenue increased by 16% year over year due to elevated volatility and higher volumes [20] - Net interest income rose by 17% year over year, driven by reinvestment of maturing investment securities at higher yields [24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a multiyear transformation to capture market beta and generate alpha through improved operational efficiency and client engagement [8][9] - Emphasis on delivering innovative solutions and enhancing the commercial model to deepen client relationships [10][11] - The transition to a platforms operating model is expected to enhance efficiency and client service [13][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted elevated market volatility and geopolitical tensions as key factors influencing the operating environment [6][5] - The company expects solid fee revenue growth in 2025, with net interest income projected to increase by high single digits year over year [32] - Management remains optimistic about the potential for organic growth and the impact of AI on operational efficiency [84][85] Other Important Information - The company returned approximately $1.2 billion of capital to shareholders, resulting in a 92% total payout ratio year to date [23] - A 13% increase in the quarterly common stock dividend was declared following the Federal Reserve's stress test results [33] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company view capital deployment relative to stock trading? - Management emphasized strong momentum and the importance of investing in the business while remaining open to sensible M&A opportunities if they align with strategic priorities [40][41] Question: Is it safe for investors to assume a high return on tangible common equity? - Management indicated that there is no ceiling on medium-term targets and that the company is focused on continuous improvement and organic growth [44][45] Question: Are fees performing better than original expectations? - Management acknowledged strong performance in fees and highlighted the positive operating leverage achieved, with a focus on organic growth [50][51] Question: What investments are being made to improve Investment Management performance? - Management noted leadership changes and a focus on cross-selling within the firm to enhance performance in Investment Management [62][66] Question: What is the outlook for acquisitions? - Management stated that while M&A can be a powerful tool, the primary focus remains on driving organic growth and ensuring any acquisitions align with strategic goals [102]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported EPS of $0.06 and adjusted EPS of $0.88 for the quarter, with tangible book value per share growing at a compound annual growth rate of 12.2% since the IPO [5] - Net income on a reported basis was $2.9 million, while adjusted net income was $40.8 million, significantly impacted by a $60 million pre-tax loss from a securities transaction [14][15] - Net interest income increased by 3.5% from the prior quarter and 8.6% year-over-year, reaching $111.4 million [15] - The net interest margin expanded by 13 basis points to 3.68% due to loan growth and cost management [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was at an annualized rate of 4.2%, while deposits grew at an annualized rate of 7.2% [10] - Core non-interest income, excluding the securities loss, was $25.8 million, representing a 9% increase over the previous quarter [16] - The company experienced a loss in non-interest income of $34.6 million due to the securities trade [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted increased market volatility due to trade policy announcements and geopolitical events, which impacted customer behavior and loan activity [7][8] - The loan growth was concentrated in residential mortgages and commercial real estate, with significant increases in specific categories [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The merger with Southern States is expected to add immediate scale and accretive earnings, with integration efforts on track for completion by the end of Q3 [11][12] - The company is optimistic about both organic and inorganic growth opportunities, with a focus on capitalizing on market disruptions [12][13] - The company aims to maintain a strong capital position while pursuing additional M&A opportunities in the future [56][82] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate economic uncertainties and highlighted the potential for growth in the coming quarters [9][11] - The outlook for loan growth remains mid to high single digits, with a strong pipeline of opportunities despite some delays in funding [10][37] - The company anticipates a net interest margin in the range of $3.70 to $3.80 for the second half of the year [25] Other Important Information - The company migrated to a new allowance model to enhance forecasting precision, which had a net impact of approximately $395,000 on reserves [19] - The company plans to redeem subordinated debt and trust preferred securities using proceeds from the securities sale [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the margin guidance and the impact of the bond restructuring? - Management confirmed that virtually no securities from Southern States will be brought over, focusing on paying down brokered deposits and optimizing capital [34][35] Question: What is the outlook for loan growth and the current pipeline? - Management reiterated a mid to high single-digit growth outlook, noting that some expected fundings were delayed but overall customer activity remains strong [37][40] Question: Can you provide details on the higher provision for mortgage banking? - The increase in provision was driven by higher LTV loans and changes in economic forecasts, with a focus on maintaining a profitable operating business [49][50] Question: What is the company's stance on future M&A activity? - Management expressed optimism about M&A opportunities, particularly in the $3 billion to $7 billion range, and emphasized readiness to capitalize on market disruptions [56][82] Question: How is the company managing hiring and recruitment? - The company continues to recruit talent, hiring four new revenue producers in the second quarter to prepare for potential market disruptions [60]