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Columbia Banking System (COLB)
NASDAQ:COLB
US Market
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Columbia Banking System (COLB) AI Stock Analysis

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COLB

Columbia Banking System

(NASDAQ:COLB)

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Outperform 78 (OpenAI - 4o)
Rating:78Outperform
Price Target:
$32.00
â–˛(13.60% Upside)
Columbia Banking System's strong technical indicators and positive earnings call are the primary drivers of its high score. The company's solid financial performance and reasonable valuation further support its attractiveness, despite some profitability and debt concerns.
Positive Factors
Successful Acquisition
The acquisition expands Columbia's footprint and market share, enhancing its position as a leading regional bank, which can drive long-term growth and competitive advantage.
Strong Cash Flow
Improved cash generation capabilities indicate efficient cash management, providing the company with flexibility to invest in growth opportunities and withstand economic fluctuations.
Share Repurchase Program
This reflects confidence in the company's financial health and can enhance shareholder value through reduced share count and increased earnings per share.
Negative Factors
Declining Profitability Margins
Decreasing margins can impact long-term profitability and limit the company's ability to reinvest in growth, affecting its competitive position.
Loan Portfolio Optimization Challenges
Efforts to optimize the loan portfolio may constrain loan growth, potentially affecting revenue generation and market competitiveness.
Seasonal Deposit Outflows
Seasonal outflows could necessitate reliance on wholesale funding, affecting interest margins and financial stability during these periods.

Columbia Banking System (COLB) vs. SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

Columbia Banking System Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionColumbia Banking System, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Columbia State Bank that provides a range of banking services to small and medium-sized businesses, professionals, and individuals in the United States. It offers personal banking products and services, including noninterest and interest-bearing checking, savings, money market, and certificate of deposit accounts; home mortgages for purchases and refinances, home equity loans and lines of credit, and other personal loans; debit and credit cards; and digital banking services. The company also provides business banking products and services, such as checking, savings, interest-bearing money market, and certificate of deposit accounts; agricultural, asset-based, builder, and other commercial real estate loans, as well as loans guaranteed by the small business administration; and professional banking, treasury management, merchant card, and international banking services. In addition, it offers wealth management solutions that include financial planning services, such as asset allocation, net worth analysis, estate planning and preservation, education funding, and wealth transfer; long-term care, and life and disability insurance solutions; individual retirement solutions comprising retirement planning, retirement income strategies, and traditional and Roth individual retirement accounts; and business solutions, which comprise business retirement plans, key person insurance, business succession planning, and deferred compensation plans to individuals, families, and professional businesses. Further, the company provides fiduciary, investment, and administrative trust services, such as personal and special needs trusts, estate settlement, and investment agency and charitable management. It operates a network of 153 branch locations, including 68 in the state of Washington, 59 in Oregon, 15 in Idaho, and 11 in California. The company was founded in 1993 and is headquartered in Tacoma, Washington.
How the Company Makes MoneyColumbia Banking System generates revenue primarily through interest income from loans and investments, as well as non-interest income from service fees and other banking services. The bank earns interest by lending money to consumers and businesses, with interest rates typically higher than the rates paid on deposits. Key revenue streams include commercial and residential loans, consumer loans, and mortgage originations. Additionally, the bank collects fees for services such as account maintenance, ATM transactions, and wealth management, contributing to its non-interest income. Strategic partnerships with local businesses and community organizations also help drive customer growth and enhance service offerings, further supporting the bank's overall earnings.

Columbia Banking System Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Oct 30, 2025
(Q3-2025)
|
% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:Jan 22, 2026
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
Columbia Banking Systems reported a positive third quarter, characterized by the successful acquisition of Pacific Premier and strong operating performance, including increased margins and capital ratios. The announcement of a significant share repurchase program demonstrates confidence in the company's future. However, seasonal deposit outflows and the ongoing process of loan portfolio optimization present challenges that need careful management.
Q3-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Successful Acquisition of Pacific Premier
Columbia Banking Systems successfully closed its strategic acquisition of Pacific Premier, expanding its footprint to an 8-state Western region with approximately $68 billion in assets and nearly 10% deposit market share in the Northwest.
Strong Operating Performance
Operating PPNR increased by 12% from the second quarter and 22% from the prior year. This reflects Columbia's focus on profitability and balance sheet optimization, with one month including Pacific Premier's contribution.
Net Interest Margin Increase
Net interest margin expanded by 9 basis points to 3.84%, driven by customer deposit growth and balance sheet optimization, including the reduction of high-cost wholesale funding.
Share Repurchase Program Announcement
The Board of Directors authorized a $700 million share repurchase program, reflecting confidence in the strength of Columbia's balance sheet and enhanced capital position following the acquisition of Pac Premier.
Improved Capital Ratios
Regulatory capital ratios expanded with Tier 1 common at 11.6% and total risk-based capital ratio at 13.4%, well above long-term targets.
Negative Updates
Seasonal Deposit Flows and Outflows
Seasonality is expected to impact deposit balances in Q4 and Q1, with potential outflows due to taxes and other payments, which may necessitate the use of wholesale funding or securities portfolio adjustments.
Loan Portfolio Optimization
Columbia plans to manage down approximately $8 billion of inherited transactional loans, which may affect overall loan growth despite efforts to remix into higher-yielding, relationship-based loans.
Company Guidance
During the third-quarter 2025 earnings call, Columbia Banking Systems provided significant guidance on their performance and strategic direction. The company successfully completed the acquisition of Pacific Premier, expanding its footprint and bolstering its position as a leading regional bank with approximately $68 billion in assets and nearly a 10% deposit market share in the Northwest. The focus on optimizing the balance sheet and remixing transactional portfolios was highlighted, with the intent to manage down roughly $8 billion of inherited transactional loans. Operating Pre-Provision Net Revenue (PPNR) increased by 12% from the second quarter and 22% from the prior year, reflecting the bank's emphasis on profitability, with net interest margin also seeing a meaningful rise. The bank reported a third-quarter operating earnings per share (EPS) of $0.85, excluding merger-related costs, and an operating return on average tangible equity of 18.2%. The acquisition led to a tangible book dilution of 1.7%, well below the anticipated 7.6%. Looking forward, Columbia expressed confidence in maintaining a high teens return on tangible equity and announced a $700 million share repurchase program, reflecting strong capital generation and a robust outlook.

Columbia Banking System Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Columbia Banking System shows strong profitability metrics with stable EBIT and EBITDA margins. However, declining revenue growth and increasing debt levels present potential risks. Cash flow management is crucial due to negative trends in free cash flow growth.
Income Statement
72
Positive
Columbia Banking System's income statement shows a mixed performance. The TTM data indicates a decline in revenue growth rate, which is concerning. However, the company maintains healthy gross and net profit margins, suggesting operational efficiency. The EBIT and EBITDA margins are stable, reflecting consistent profitability. The revenue growth rate has fluctuated significantly over the years, indicating potential volatility in revenue streams.
Balance Sheet
68
Positive
The balance sheet reflects a moderate debt-to-equity ratio, which has increased over the years but remains manageable. The return on equity is positive, indicating the company is generating returns for its shareholders. The equity ratio is stable, suggesting a solid capital structure. However, the increasing debt levels could pose a risk if not managed properly.
Cash Flow
75
Positive
The cash flow statement reveals challenges in free cash flow growth, with a negative trend in recent periods. The operating cash flow to net income ratio is low, indicating potential issues in converting income into cash. However, the free cash flow to net income ratio is strong, suggesting efficient cash generation relative to net income. The declining free cash flow growth rate is a concern that needs addressing.
BreakdownTTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue2.99B2.97B2.74B1.35B1.32B1.42B
Gross Profit1.92B1.82B1.78B1.19B1.32B1.09B
EBITDA776.88M868.62M615.45M478.88M589.66M-1.42B
Net Income478.30M533.67M348.71M336.75M420.30M-1.52B
Balance Sheet
Total Assets67.50B51.58B52.17B31.85B30.64B29.24B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments13.34B2.08B10.99B4.49B6.63B5.51B
Total Debt3.07B3.90B4.76B1.72B975.13M1.60B
Total Liabilities59.71B46.46B47.18B29.37B27.89B26.53B
Stockholders Equity7.79B5.12B5.00B2.48B2.75B2.70B
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow705.21M623.20M669.84M1.04B647.25M81.79M
Operating Cash Flow720.85M658.87M669.84M1.07B662.72M93.77M
Investing Cash Flow1.47B114.57M501.74M-3.53B-1.53B-960.11M
Financing Cash Flow-1.96B-1.06B-303.69M1.00B1.06B2.08B

Columbia Banking System Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price28.17
Price Trends
50DMA
25.99
Positive
100DMA
25.41
Positive
200DMA
24.27
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
0.53
Negative
RSI
59.63
Neutral
STOCH
69.54
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For COLB, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 28.17 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 26.72, above the 50-day MA of 25.99, and above the 200-day MA of 24.27, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 0.53 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 59.63 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 69.54 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for COLB.

Columbia Banking System Risk Analysis

Columbia Banking System disclosed 38 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Columbia Banking System reported the most risks in the "Finance & Corporate" category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

Columbia Banking System Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (68)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
78
Outperform
$8.28B12.457.32%5.24%-0.30%-3.80%
75
Outperform
$5.95B11.887.87%2.89%4.54%27.56%
71
Outperform
$6.38B13.037.07%4.34%-1.94%41.35%
70
Outperform
$5.27B7.4912.35%3.78%2.79%2.11%
69
Neutral
$5.53B20.776.92%3.12%8.73%26.19%
68
Neutral
$18.00B11.429.92%3.81%9.73%1.22%
63
Neutral
$5.56B12.2511.20%2.88%1.43%19.58%
* Financial Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
COLB
Columbia Banking System
28.17
-0.42
-1.47%
OZK
Bank OZK
45.99
-0.17
-0.37%
FNB
F.N.B.
16.92
0.74
4.57%
GBCI
Glacier Bancorp
42.54
-13.00
-23.41%
HOMB
Home Bancshares
27.96
-2.45
-8.06%
VLY
Valley National Bancorp
11.44
1.44
14.40%

Columbia Banking System Corporate Events

Stock BuybackDividends
Columbia Banking System Increases Quarterly Dividend by 3%
Positive
Nov 14, 2025

On November 14, 2025, Columbia Banking System, Inc. announced a 3% increase in its quarterly cash dividend to $0.37 per common share, payable on December 15, 2025. This move aligns with the company’s strategic focus on enhancing shareholder value, supported by a $700 million share repurchase program and expectations of strong profitability and capital generation in the coming quarters.

The most recent analyst rating on (COLB) stock is a Hold with a $28.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Columbia Banking System stock, see the COLB Stock Forecast page.

Executive/Board Changes
Columbia Banking System Appoints New CFO Ivan Seda
Neutral
Nov 4, 2025

On October 29, 2025, Columbia Banking System announced the appointment of Ivan Seda as Chief Financial Officer, effective December 31, 2025, succeeding Ronald L. Farnsworth, who will transition to a senior advisor role until June 1, 2026. Seda, who joined Columbia in August 2025 and has extensive financial experience, is expected to continue driving the company’s growth and shareholder value. Farnsworth has been instrumental in Columbia’s recent strategic developments, and his transition is aimed at ensuring a seamless leadership change.

The most recent analyst rating on (COLB) stock is a Buy with a $29.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Columbia Banking System stock, see the COLB Stock Forecast page.

Columbia Banking Systems’ Earnings Call Highlights Strategic Growth
Nov 1, 2025

Columbia Banking Systems’ recent earnings call painted a positive picture of the company’s third-quarter performance, underscored by strategic acquisitions and robust financial metrics. The sentiment was largely optimistic, driven by the successful acquisition of Pacific Premier and a strong operating performance. However, the company acknowledged challenges such as seasonal deposit outflows and the ongoing optimization of its loan portfolio.

Columbia Banking System’s Q3 2025 Financial Performance
Oct 31, 2025

Columbia Banking System, Inc. is a regional bank headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, offering a range of financial services including retail and commercial banking, wealth management, and equipment leasing across the western United States. In its third quarter of 2025, Columbia Banking System reported significant financial developments, including the completion of its acquisition of Pacific Premier Bancorp, which expanded its market presence in Southern California. The acquisition contributed to a rise in net interest income and net interest margin, despite increased non-interest expenses due to merger-related costs. Key financial metrics for the quarter included a net income of $96 million and an operating net income of $204 million, with diluted earnings per share at $0.40 and operating earnings per share at $0.85. The bank’s net interest income increased by $59 million from the previous quarter, while non-interest income saw a $12 million rise. However, non-interest expenses surged by $115 million, primarily due to merger and restructuring costs. Credit quality showed improvement with a reduction in net charge-offs and non-performing assets. Looking ahead, Columbia Banking System remains focused on integrating Pacific Premier and optimizing its balance sheet, with a strategic emphasis on sustainable growth and capital returns to shareholders, as evidenced by the authorization of a $700 million share repurchase program.

Stock BuybackFinancial DisclosuresM&A Transactions
Columbia Banking System Reports Strong Q3 2025 Results
Positive
Oct 30, 2025

On October 30, 2025, Columbia Banking System reported its third-quarter 2025 financial results, highlighting a net income of $96 million and operating net income of $204 million. The company completed its acquisition of Pacific Premier, which contributed to a $59 million increase in net interest income and a 9 basis point rise in net interest margin. Despite acquisition-related expenses impacting reported results, core profitability remained strong, supported by customer deposit growth and balance sheet optimization. The board authorized a $700 million share repurchase program, reflecting confidence in the company’s strategy and capital generation outlook.

The most recent analyst rating on (COLB) stock is a Hold with a $28.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Columbia Banking System stock, see the COLB Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyM&A Transactions
Columbia Banking System Completes Major Acquisition
Positive
Sep 2, 2025

On September 2, 2025, Columbia Banking System completed its acquisition of Pacific Premier Bancorp, significantly enhancing its strategic expansion in Southern California and solidifying its market leadership in Northern California, Washington, Oregon, and Arizona. This acquisition increases Columbia’s assets to approximately $70 billion, with more than 350 locations across eight western states, reinforcing its position as a regional banking leader. The integration of systems and services is expected in the first quarter of 2026, with the unified Columbia brand now serving customers, marking a significant milestone in Columbia’s growth and market presence.

The most recent analyst rating on (COLB) stock is a Buy with a $35.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Columbia Banking System stock, see the COLB Stock Forecast page.

Financial Disclosures
Columbia Banking System Announces Q3 2025 Results Date
Neutral
Aug 29, 2025

On August 29, 2025, Columbia Banking System, Inc. announced it will release its third quarter 2025 financial results on October 30, 2025, after market close. The company will host a conference call for investors and analysts on the same day to discuss the financial results and recent activities, followed by a live Q&A session. This announcement highlights Columbia’s commitment to transparency and engagement with stakeholders, potentially impacting its market positioning and investor relations.

The most recent analyst rating on (COLB) stock is a Buy with a $29.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Columbia Banking System stock, see the COLB Stock Forecast page.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Nov 26, 2025