Strong Loan and Deposit Growth
The company reported a significant loan growth of $257 million and a deposit increase of $63 million, with interest-bearing deposits rising by $189 million. Total deposits increased even while total deposit costs decreased by 16 basis points.
Successful Financial Performance
Renasant achieved earnings of $44.7 million or $0.70 per diluted share for the fourth quarter, with net interest income increasing by $1.9 million on a linked quarter basis.
Positive Developments in Merger with The First
The merger with The First is proceeding as planned, expected to complete in the first half of 2025, which is anticipated to strengthen the balance sheet and earnings profile.
Improved Asset Quality Metrics
Criticized loans and total non-performing assets decreased, with criticized loans as a percentage of total loans decreasing by 13 basis points to 2.89%.
Positive Outlook for Net Interest Margin
The adjusted net interest margin increased by 2 basis points to 3.34%, and the outlook for 2025 is for some modest expansion in the margin.