Successful Merger with The First Bancshares
The merger with The First Bancshares was completed on April 1, and the second quarter numbers reflect a full quarter of operations from both companies. The cultural integration of employees and customers has gone well, and systems conversion is planned for early August.
Positive Financial Growth
Adjusted earnings were approximately $66 million or $0.69 per diluted share. Loans increased by $312 million or 7%, and deposits also increased by $361 million or 7%. The core net interest margin expanded from 3.42% to 3.58%.
Asset Quality Improvement
Improvement was noted in past due loan percentage, and nonperforming loans remained flat. The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans increased by 1 basis point to 1.57%.
Efficiency Ratio Improvement
The adjusted efficiency ratio improved by about 7 percentage points due to improved net revenue and cost containment efforts.
Noninterest Income Growth
Noninterest income increased to $48.3 million in the second quarter, a linked quarter increase of $11.9 million. The mortgage division contributed significantly with an increase in income of $1.6 million.