Strong Loan Growth and Fee Income
Management highlighted 'outstanding loan growth' during 2025 and 'strong loan fee income' driven by scale in key markets (Oklahoma and Texas). Management described sustained momentum and weekly client engagement to maximize loan dollars. Jason Estes cited an expected payoff pace of roughly $25 million per month going forward while emphasizing continued origination activity.
Very Strong Asset Quality and Disciplined Underwriting
Management said loan growth was achieved 'without sacrificing underwriting' and noted asset quality is 'probably better than it's ever been.' As a result, provisions were not materially increased this year or last year despite significant growth.
Healthy Net Interest Margin Positioning
CFO referenced a current NIM 'around $4.45' as a 'great starting point,' noting many loans are at floors which supports margin stability. Management also highlighted mitigating actions (time deposit repricing) that can help offset some pressure.
Lower Cost of Funds and Deposit Wins
CFO reported a current cost of funds run rate of $2.40 and noted the company picked up a couple of 'nice deposits' post year-end that helped reduce cost of funds. Management described solid organic deposit growth across the year.
Strong Expense Control and Fee Base
Management reiterated strong expense discipline. For Q4, CFO provided a guide: roughly $9.1 million in core expense and ~$1 million attributable to oil & gas expense. Fee income in Q4 was approximately $2 million total (split ~$1M core fee, ~$1M oil & gas).
Capital Build and Strategic Optionality for M&A
Management said capital is 'piling up rapidly,' giving the company optionality to pursue M&A or maintain discipline. They emphasized resisting significant buybacks to build capital and said AOCI headwinds have eased somewhat, improving deal visibility.
Top-Tier Long-Term Shareholder Returns (Management View)
Management pointed to long-term total shareholder return versus peers as 'top, top, top tier,' and emphasized focus on delivering 'top-tier results' over time rather than near-term buybacks.