Carter Bankshares reports Q1 EPS $3.88 vs. 39c last year

Net interest margin increased 15 basis points to 3.07% for the first quarter of 2026, compared to 2.92% for the prior quarter and increased 39 basis points compared to the prior year quarter; The Company’s Tier 1 capital ratio was 13.52% at March 31, 2026, compared to 10.70% at December 31, 2025. The Company’s leverage ratio was 11.10% at March 31, 2026, compared to 9.43% at December 31, 2025. The Company’s total risk-based capital ratio was 14.78% at March 31, 2026, compared to 11.95% at December 31, 2025. Reports tangible book value per share $22.69. “We are very pleased to report the successful resolution of our largest nonperforming credit relationship during the first quarter of 2026,” stated Litz H. Van Dyke, Chief Executive Officer. “This Transaction meaningfully strengthened our balance sheet and favorably increased tangible book value by $3.49 per share, while also improving key financial ratios. It represents an important milestone for the Company and positions us well for continued growth.We continued to deliver strong operating performance during the quarter, highlighted by margin expansion and solid loan growth across our footprint. Annualized loan growth of 6.1%7, net of the Transaction, reflects continued momentum in our commercial and small business lending platforms, supported by a healthy pipeline and increasing traction in commercial and industrial lending. We also expect a continued tailwind from prior construction lending commitments, which are anticipated to fund over the next 12 to 18 months as projects progress. Our balance sheet remains slightly liability sensitive, positioning us to benefit from potential Federal Reserve interest rate reductions, which we expect would further support margin expansion, particularly given the short-term nature of our certificates of deposit portfolio.”