Strong Quarterly Loan Originations
Total loan originations of $141 million in Q4 with $106 million funded; over 90% of originations were commercial. Management called this one of the strongest quarters in the past decade.
Material Full-Year Loan Origination Growth
For the full year, originated $374 million in new loans, including $274 million funded, representing a 79% increase versus the prior year.
Improving Asset Quality
Classified loans declined 35% quarter-over-quarter to 1.5% of total loans (from 2.4%); non-accrual loans fell 14% to 1.3% of total loans (from 1.5%); past-due loans decreased to the lowest level since 2023.
Deposit Growth with Lower Cost
Total deposits increased during Q4 while the bank reduced its cost of deposits by 10 basis points; management highlighted account acquisition (~1,000 accounts opened) and ongoing success bringing new commercial relationships.
Balance Sheet Repositioning Expected to Drive Future Earnings and Margin
Completed repositioning of held-to-maturity portfolio to available-for-sale and sold 74% of legacy HTM. Management expects approximately $0.40 of EPS accretion over 12 months and ~25 basis points of net interest margin lift from the action.
Net Interest Income and NIM Expansion
Net interest income increased to $31.2 million in the quarter. Reported adjusted monthly NIM moved from 3.12% (October adjusted) to 3.42% (December), a ~30 basis point expansion during the quarter attributable to restructuring and targeted deposit cuts.
Strong Underwriting, Diversified Production and Pipeline
Originations were more diversified across commercial categories, geographies and property types; pipeline ~30% higher than a year ago. Management highlighted success in growth markets (e.g., Greater Sacramento) and contributions from recent hires.
Solid Reserves and Minor Credit Provision
Allowance for credit losses remains strong at 1.42% of total loans; provision for credit losses was minor in Q4 due to improved credit trends and substantial reserves.
Non-GAAP Profitability Improvements
Excluding securities repositioning loss, non-GAAP net income was $9.4 million ($0.59 per share). Non-GAAP pre-tax, pre-provision income increased 31% sequentially and 51% year-over-year.
Capital Actions and Shareholder Return
Replenished capital using subordinated debt (avoiding equity dilution). Board declared a $0.25 per share cash dividend—the 83rd consecutive quarterly dividend.