Keystone Acquisition Drove Balance Sheet Expansion
Keystone merger materially expanded the franchise: total assets increased 23.2%, loans increased 19.5% and deposits increased 23.5% from year-end. Keystone contributed roughly a 20% lift to loans and deposits and expanded the customer base and geographic footprint in Central Texas.
Strong Loan Pipelines and Early 2Q Momentum
Underlying organic momentum remains strong: excluding Keystone, loans were up approximately $45 million in the quarter, quarterly average loan balances rose over $100 million, and April month-to-date loan originations were already up over $100 million. Management extended the quarterly loan growth target range to $75 million–$125 million.
Net Interest Income Growth
Net interest income was $53.6 million for the quarter, a 2.7% increase sequentially, driven by a larger earning asset base post-merger.
Adjusted Profitability Metrics (Excluding Merger Costs)
Reported diluted EPS was $0.88; excluding merger-related expenses, EPS would have been approximately $1.02. Excluding merger items, return on average assets would have been 1.25%.
Tangible Book Value and Cost-Save Outlook
Tangible book value ended the quarter at $31.70, in line with prior guidance of $31.69. Management expects roughly $6 million of merger-related cost saves, with most savings beginning to be realized in 3Q/4Q and fully in place by next year.
Platform and Product Build-Out
Third Coast added senior relationship bankers in Houston and Dallas, launched an asset-based lending (ABL) platform, and expanded public funds and correspondent banking teams to diversify funding and fee streams—initiatives designed to drive future loan growth and fee income.
Fee Income Trending Steady
Management guided fee income to roughly $4.0 million for the quarter and expects a modest increase going forward to a $4.0–$4.5 million range; securitizations remain a potential upside to fees and margin.