First Interstate reports Q2 EPS 69c, consensus 58c

“Our net interest margin continued to improve as expected, and we are prudently managing expenses while focusing our efforts on organic growth. Our liquidity and capital levels are strong, providing us a solid foundation to grow and improve profitability through relationship banking. This quarter, our results reflect a series of actions that position the bank for future success, including the outsourcing of our consumer credit card product,” said James A. Reuter, President and Chief Executive Officer of First Interstate (FIBK) BancSystem, Inc. “We are pleased with the stability in non-performing assets, net charge-offs, and improvement in classified asset levels. The increase in criticized assets is due mostly to slower lease-up in the multifamily portfolio and reflects our proactive approach to credit risk management.”