Improved Earnings and Profitability
Earnings and profitability improved due to a larger earning asset base, driving an increase in net interest income, a lower provision for credit losses, and a decrease in non-interest expense. Earnings per share were $1.30 diluted, up $0.20 from the linked September quarter and $0.23 from the December 2023 quarter.
Strong Loan and Deposit Growth
Gross loan balances increased by over $60 million during the second quarter, with a year-over-year increase of $295 million or just under 8%. Deposit balances increased by about $170 million in the second quarter and by $225 million or about 5.5% compared to the prior year.
Stable Asset Quality
Adversely classified loans decreased by about $849,000 or 4 basis points compared to the linked quarter. Nonperforming loan balances increased slightly but remained in line as a percentage of total loans. Nonperforming asset balances dropped to 22 basis points from 26 basis points last quarter.
Increased Tangible Book Value
Tangible book value per share increased by $4.26 or 12% during the last 12 months, reaching $38.91.
Successful Performance Improvement Initiatives
The company launched a performance improvement initiative aimed at enhancing efficiency and meeting customer needs, with some enhancements already implemented and positive results expected over the coming years.