Strong Loan Growth
Total loans held for investment, excluding mortgage warehouse, grew by $123 million, representing 10% annualized growth. The commercial lending segment experienced a 22% annualized growth in net loans.
Improved Net Interest Margin
Net interest margin increased by 31 basis points to 2.97%, driven by strategic redeployment of cash proceeds and reduction of higher-cost deposit balances.
Positive Credit Metrics
Commercial credit quality is strong with key metrics at or below peer performance, including past due loans greater than 30 days at 10 basis points and a nonperforming loan ratio declining to 19 basis points.
Strategic Initiatives and Expense Management
Restructuring initiatives completed in the quarter are expected to lead to a more efficient cost structure in 2025, with key strategic initiatives yielding positive financial positioning.
Sale of Mortgage Warehouse Division
The mortgage warehouse division was sold for a gain, effective January 17, which will be recognized in Q1 results.