Q3 2025 Third Coast Bancshares Inc Earnings Call
Speaker #3: Greetings and welcome to the Third Coast Bancshares . Third quarter earnings conference call . At this time , all participants are in a listen only mode .
Natalie Hairston: Greetings, and welcome to the Third Coast Bancshares Inc. third quarter earnings conference call. At this time, all participants are in a listen-only mode. A question and answer session will follow the formal presentation. If anyone should require operator assistance during the conference, please press star zero on your telephone keypad. Please note this conference is being recorded. I would now like to turn the conference over to your host, Ms. Natalie Hairston. Please go ahead. Thank you, operator, and good morning, everyone. We appreciate you joining us for a Third Coast Bancshares Inc. conference call and webcast to review our third quarter 2025 results. With me today is Bart Caraway, Founder, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, John McWhorter, Chief Financial Officer, and Audrey Spalding, Chief Credit Officer. First, a few housekeeping items.
Speaker #3: A question and answer session will follow the formal presentation . If anyone should require operator assistance during the conference , please press Star Zero on your telephone keypad .
Speaker #3: Please note this conference is being recorded . I would now like to turn the conference over to your host , Miss Natalie Hairston .
Speaker #3: Please go ahead .
Speaker #4: Thank you . Operator . And good morning , everyone . We appreciate you joining us for Third Coast Bancshares, Inc. conference call and webcast to review our third quarter 2025 results .
Speaker #4: With me today is Bart Caraway founder , chairman , president and Chief Executive Officer John McWhorter . Chief Financial officer . And Audrey Spalding , chief credit officer .
Speaker #4: First , a few housekeeping items . There will be a replay of today's call , and it will be available by webcast on the investors section of our website at .
Natalie Hairston: There will be a replay of today's call, and it will be available by webcast on the investors section of our website at ir.thirdcoast.bank. There will also be a telephonic replay available until October 30th, and more information on how to access these replay features was included in yesterday's earnings release. Please note that the information reported on this call speaks only as of today, October 23rd, 2025, and therefore you are advised that time-sensitive information may no longer be accurate as of the time of any replay listening or transcript reading. In addition, the comments made by management during this conference call may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Federal Securities Laws. These forward-looking statements reflect the current views of management. However, various risks, uncertainties, and contingencies could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in the statements made by management.
Speaker #4: There will also be a telephonic replay available until October 30th , and more information on how to access these replay features was included in yesterday's earnings release .
Speaker #4: Please note that the information reported on this call speaks only as of today , October 23rd , 2025 , and therefore , you are advised that time sensitive information may no longer be accurate as of the time of any replay .
Speaker #4: Listening or transcript reading . In addition , the comments made by management during this conference call may contain forward looking statements within the meaning of the United States federal securities laws .
Speaker #4: These forward looking statements reflect the current views of management . However , various risks and and contingencies could cause actual results , performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in the statements made by management .
Speaker #4: The listener or reader is encouraged to read the annual Report on Form 10-K that was filed on March 5th , 2025 , to better understand those risks and uncertainties and contingencies .
Natalie Hairston: The listener or reader is encouraged to read the annual report on Form 10-K that was filed on March 5th, 2025 to better understand those risks, uncertainties, and contingencies. The comments made today will also include certain non-GAAP financial measures. Additional details and reconciliation to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures were included in yesterday's earnings release, which can be found on the Third Coast Bancshares Inc. website. Now, I will turn the call over to Third Coast Bancshares Inc.'s Founder, Chairman, President, and CEO, Mr. Bart Caraway. Bart?
Speaker #4: The comments made today will also include certain non-GAAP financial measures . Additional details and reconciliation to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures were included in yesterday's earnings release , which can be found on the Third Coast website .
Speaker #4: Now , I will turn the call over to Third Coast founder , chairman , president and CEO . Mr. Bart Caraway . Bart .
Speaker #5: Good morning , everyone , and thank you , Natalie . I'll begin by sharing the highlights from the company's performance this quarter . After my remarks , John will discuss the financials and Audrey will give a review of credit quality .
Bart Caraway: Good morning, everyone, and thank you, Natalie. I'll begin by sharing the highlights from the company's performance this quarter. After my remarks, John will discuss the financials, and Audrey will give a review of credit quality. Finally, I'll cover our merger announcement and share management's outlook for the remainder of 2025. The third quarter was particularly impressive for Third Coast Bancshares Inc., as the company reached several key milestone achievements in growth, innovation, and shareholder value. First, the recent listing of TCBX on both the New York Stock Exchange and the NYSE Texas marked a strategic shift aimed at enhancing market visibility and providing shareholders with greater liquidity. Second, we experienced notable growth in the third quarter, creating substantial asset value.
Speaker #5: Finally , I'll cover our merger announcement and share management's outlook for the remainder of 2025 . The third quarter was particularly impressive for Third Coast , as the company reached several key milestone achievements in growth , innovation and shareholder value .
Speaker #5: First , the recent listing of Ptcb on both the New York Stock Exchange and the NYSE Texas marked a strategic shift aimed at enhancing market visibility and providing shareholders with greater liquidity .
Speaker #5: Second , we experienced notable growth in the third quarter , creating substantial asset value for the first time . The company's history . We surpassed 5 billion threshold in total assets with a compound annual growth rate of 19.3% .
Bart Caraway: For the first time in the company's history, we surpassed the $5 billion threshold in total assets, with a compound annual growth rate of 19.3% since our IPO in November 2021. Our relationship banking model has remained effective, evidenced by the consistent quarter-over-quarter growth in both deposits and loans. Additionally, we set new records in book value and tangible book value, reaching $32.25 and $30.91, respectively. Our return on average assets also hit a new high, reaching an annualized 1.41% for the third quarter of 2025. These accomplishments not only demonstrate our growth strategy but also underscore our commitment to creating lasting franchise value for our stakeholders. Third, the successful completion of the bank's first and second securitization transactions mentioned during our Q2 earnings call received international recognition, winning the SCI Risk Sharing Award for North American Transaction of the Year at a recent ceremony in London.
Speaker #5: Since our IPO in November 2021 . Our relationship banking model has remained effective , evidenced by the consistent quarter over quarter growth in both deposits and loans .
Speaker #5: Additionally , we set new records in book value and tangible book value , reaching $32.25 and $30.91 , respectively . Our return on average assets also hit a new high , reaching an annualized 1.41% for the third quarter of 2025 .
Speaker #5: These accomplishments not only demonstrate our growth strategy , but also underscored our commitment to creating lasting franchise value for our stakeholders . Third , the successful completion of the bank's first and second securitization transactions mentioned during our Q2 earnings call received international recognition , winning the CI risk Sharing Award for North American Transaction of the year at a recent ceremony in London .
Speaker #5: These transactions demonstrated that what we once thought impossible is now within reach . In Third Coast is immensely proud to have set new standards for a bank .
Bart Caraway: These transactions demonstrated that what we once thought impossible is now within reach, and Third Coast Bancshares Inc. is immensely proud to have set new standards for a bank our size while redefining risk management for real estate development loan portfolios among our peers. Lastly, our ongoing efforts to optimize operating leverage led to improvements in efficiency, profitability, and opportunity. Our efficiency ratio improved to 53.05% for the third quarter. Net income rose, driven by enhancements in interest and non-interest-bearing income, while keeping expenses stable, resulting in a total of $18.1 million for the quarter. Collectively, the third quarter results position us as a strong performer and create a solid foundation for potential M&A opportunities ahead, including the definitive agreement with Keystone Bancshares Inc. that was announced yesterday, and I will discuss more in detail later in the call.
Speaker #5: Our size . While redefining risk management for real estate development , loan portfolios among our peers . Lastly , our ongoing efforts to optimize operating leverage led to improvements in efficiency , profitability , and opportunity .
Speaker #5: Our efficiency ratio improved two 53.5% for the third quarter . Net income rose , driven by enhancements in interest and non-interest bearing income .
Speaker #5: While keeping expenses stable , resulting in a total of 18.1 million for the quarter . Collectively , the third quarter quarter results position us as a strong performer and create a solid foundation for potential M&A opportunities ahead , including the definitive agreement with Keystone that was announced yesterday .
Speaker #5: And I will discuss more in detail later in the call . In summary , the third quarter not only exceeded expectations , but also set several new records for the company and overall , we remain committed to delivering on our strategic priorities and providing sustained value for our shareholders .
Bart Caraway: In summary, the third quarter not only exceeded expectations but also set several new records for the company, and overall, we remain committed to delivering on our strategic priorities and providing sustained value for our shareholders. With that, I'll turn the call over to John for the company's financial update. John?
Speaker #5: With that , I'll turn the call over to John for the company's financial update . John . Thank you , Bart , and good morning , everyone .
John McWhorter: Thank you, Bart. Good morning, everyone. We provided the detailed financial tables in yesterday's earnings release, so today I'll provide some additional color around select balance sheet and profitability metrics from the third quarter. We reported third quarter net income of $16.9 million, up 8.3% versus the second quarter of 2025. This resulted in an annualized return on average assets of 1.41% and a 15.1% return on equity. The net interest income was up $1.5 million, or 3%, from the second quarter. This increase was primarily due to a better-than-expected net interest margin and growth in average earning assets of $229 million. Non-interest expenses were essentially flat in the third quarter, where salary and employee benefits were up, but legal and professional expenses were down. If you recall, last quarter we noted relatively high legal fees associated with the securitization transactions.
Speaker #5: We provided the detailed financial tables in yesterday's earnings release . So today I'll provide some additional color around . Select balance sheet and profitability metrics from the third quarter .
Speaker #5: We reported third-quarter net income of $16.9 million, up 8.3% versus the second quarter of 2025. This resulted in an ROA of 1.41 and a 15.1% return on equity.
Speaker #5: Net interest income was up 15 million , or 3% , from the second quarter . This increase was primarily due to a better than expected net interest margin and growth in average earning assets of 229 million .
Speaker #5: Non-interest expenses were essentially flat in the third quarter , where salary and employee benefits were up , but legal and professional expenses were down .
Speaker #5: If you recall , last quarter , we noted relatively high legal fees associated with the securitizations . Investment securities were up 21 million to 583 million , and quarterly average balances were up 117 million .
John McWhorter: Investment securities were up $21 million to $583 million, and quarterly average balances were up $117 million. Yield on the portfolio at September 30th was 6.07%, and AOCI improved slightly with a gain to $10.9 million. Deposits increased $92 million for the quarter, resulting in a loan-to-deposit ratio of 95%, and our cost of funds declined slightly. Net interest margin declined to 4.10%, but was still higher than expected due to relatively high loan fees. In fact, speaking of loan fees, despite higher-than-expected accretion, capitalized loan fees at Q3 were a record $19.9 million. We're forecasting a margin of between 3.90% and 3.95% for the fourth quarter. Third quarter average loans were up $158 million versus the second quarter of this year. Period end loans, however, were up $85.4 million. Loan demand remains strong, with loans already up $50 million in October.
Speaker #5: Yield on the portfolio at September 30th was 6.07% . And Aoci improved slightly with a gain to 10.9 million . Deposits increased 92 million for the quarter , resulting in a loan to deposit ratio of 95% .
Speaker #5: And our cost of funds declined slightly . Net interest margin declined to 4.10% , but was still higher than expected due to relatively high loan fees .
Speaker #5: In fact , speaking of loan fees , despite higher than expected accretion , capitalized loan fees at 930 were a record 19.9 million , but with that said , we're forecasting a margin of between 3.90 and 3.95 for the fourth quarter .
Speaker #5: Third quarter average loans were up 158 million versus the second quarter of this year , period . End loans , however , were up 85.4 million .
Speaker #5: Loan demand remains strong , with loans already up 50 million in October . We've recently hired several new employees that we believe will be significant contributors to both loan growth and deposit growth in future quarters .
John McWhorter: We've recently hired several new employees that we believe will be significant contributors to both loan growth and deposit growth in future quarters. That completes the financial review. At this point, I'll pass the call to Audrey for our credit quality review.
Speaker #5: That completes the financial review. At this point, I'll pass the call to Audrey for our credit quality review.
Speaker #6: Thank you , John , and good morning , everyone . The third quarter highlighted the stability of our credit quality . A result of our disciplined risk management .
Audrey Spalding: Thank you, John, and good morning, everyone. The third quarter highlighted the stability of our credit quality, a result of our disciplined risk management practices and underwriting standards. Non-accrual loans declined for the second consecutive quarter, improving by $2.6 million in the third quarter. Quarter-over-quarter, non-performing loans increased by $1.6 million. However, they are $2.3 million lower than the same period a year ago. Similarly, the non-performing loans to total loans ratio rose by 3 basis points quarter-over-quarter, but still improved by 10 basis points compared to the same period last year. The 4 basis point increase in provision expense was attributable to growth in gross loans outstanding, and the company recorded net recoveries of $17,000 for the quarter. Our loan portfolio remains well-diversified and similar to the previous quarter's allocations. Commercial and industrial loans were 43% of total loans, while construction, development, and land loans were 20%.
Speaker #6: Practices and underwriting standards . Non-accrual loans declined for the second consecutive quarter , improving by 2.6 million in the third quarter quarter . Over quarter , nonperforming loans increased by 1.6 million .
Speaker #6: However , they are 2.3 million lower than the same period a year ago . Similarly , the nonperforming loans to total loans ratio rose by three basis points quarter over quarter , but still improved by ten basis points compared to the same period last year .
Speaker #6: The four basis point increase in provision expense was attributable to growth in gross loans , outstanding , and the company recorded net recoveries of $17,000 for the quarter .
Speaker #6: Our loan portfolio remains well diversified and similar to the previous quarter's allocations . Commercial and industrial loans were 43% of total loans , while construction , development and land loans were 20% .
Speaker #6: Owner occupied CRE was 10% and Non-owner occupied . CRE was 16% of total loans . Our office and medical office portfolio exposure was not materially different than previous quarters , and our multifamily exposure has declined slightly .
Audrey Spalding: Owner-occupied CRE was 10%, and non-owner-occupied CRE was 16% of total loans. Our office and medical office portfolio exposure was not materially different than previous quarters, and our multifamily exposure has declined slightly. Overall, the stability of our loan portfolio, combined with our team's discipline, allows us to maintain strong performance as we navigate market fluctuations strategically. This blend of conservative credit underwriting and careful risk management not only propels our growth but also delivers long-term value to our stakeholders. With that, I'll turn the call back to Bart. Bart?
Speaker #6: Overall , the stability of our loan portfolio combined with our teams discipline , allows us to maintain strong performance as we navigate market fluctuations strategically , this blend of conservative credit underwriting and careful risk management not only propels our growth , but also delivers long term value to our stakeholders .
Speaker #6: With that , I'll turn the call back to Bart . Bart .
Speaker #5: Thank you . Audrey . Looking ahead , we are excited to capitalize on the positive momentum generated in the third quarter as we continue to implement strategic initiatives that will drive our company forward as announced yesterday , Third Coast has entered into a definitive merger agreement with Keystone Bancshares Inc. .
Bart Caraway: Thank you, Audrey. Looking ahead, we are excited to capitalize on the positive momentum generated in the third quarter as we continue to implement strategic initiatives that will drive our company forward. As announced yesterday, Third Coast has entered into a definitive merger agreement with Keystone Bancshares Inc. Once completed, the combined entity is expected to have pro forma total assets in excess of $6 billion. We are targeting to close the transaction in the first quarter of 2026. Keystone Bank is headquartered in Austin, Texas, a region known for dynamic economic growth and a vibrant community, making it an ideal location for continued expansion. Keystone currently operates two branches within the Austin market, alongside a branch in Ballinger, Texas, and a loan production office in Bastrop, Texas.
Speaker #5: Once completed , the combined entity is expected to have a pro forma total assets in excess of 6 billion . We are targeting to close the transaction in the first quarter of 2026 .
Speaker #5: Keystone Bank is headquartered in Austin , Texas , a region known for dynamic economic growth and vibrant community , making it an ideal location for continued expansion .
Speaker #5: Keystone currently operates two branches within the Austin market , alongside a branch in Ballinger , Texas , and a loan production office in Bastrop , Texas .
Speaker #5: This partnership presents a compelling opportunity to merge two culturally aligned community banks, allowing us to leverage our shared commitment to relationship banking and customer service by combining our resources and expertise.
Bart Caraway: This partnership presents a compelling opportunity to merge two culturally aligned community banks, allowing us to leverage our shared commitment to relationship banking and customer service. By combining our resources and expertise, Third Coast will significantly strengthen its position in that corner of the Texas Triangle. Turning to our outlook, management expects the remainder of 2025 to be consistent with prior quarters. Our loan pipelines show even more demand over the robust figures of the third quarter, reinforcing our confidence in meeting our loan growth targets of $50 to $100 million in the fourth quarter. This aligns with our annualized growth rate of approximately 8%, and as always, we remain disciplined in our underwriting and portfolio management practices to ensure high-quality growth. In closing, I'd like to restate how proud I am of the Third Coast team.
Speaker #5: Third coast will significantly strengthen its position in that corner of the Texas Triangle . Turning to our outlook . Management expects the remainder of 2025 to be consistent with prior quarters .
Speaker #5: Our loan pipeline show even more demand over the robust figures of the third quarter , reinforcing our confidence in meeting our loan growth targets of 50 to 100 million in the fourth quarter .
Speaker #5: This aligns with our annualized growth rate of approximately 8% . And as always , we remain disciplined in our underwriting and portfolio management practices to ensure high quality growth .
Speaker #5: In closing, I’d like to restate how proud I am of the Third Coast team. We consistently exceed industry expectations, achieving growth rates that surpass those of our peers, thanks to the dedication of our bankers and the strategic positioning in Texas’s most attractive markets.
Bart Caraway: We consistently exceed industry expectations, achieving growth rates that surpass that of our peers. Thanks to the dedication of our bankers and the strategic positioning in Texas's most attractive markets, we have built a strong franchise characterized by a desirable banking model, sustained growth and profitability, and long-term value creation for our shareholders. With that, I'd now like to turn the call back over to the operator to begin the question and answer session. Operator?
Speaker #5: We have built a strong franchise characterised by desirable banking model , sustained growth and profitability in long term value creation for our shareholders .
Speaker #5: With that , I'd now like to turn the call back over to the operator to begin the question and answer session . Operator .
Speaker #3: Thank you . We will now be conducting a question and answer session . If you would like to ask a question , please press star one on your telephone keypad .
Natalie Hairston: Thank you. We will now be conducting a question and answer session. If you would like to ask a question, please press star one on your telephone keypad. A confirmation tone will indicate your line is in the question queue. You may press star two if you would like to remove your question from the queue. For participants using speaker equipment, it may be necessary to pick up your handset before pressing the star key. That is star one to ask a question. Our first question comes from Bernard von Gzicki with Deutsche Bank.
Speaker #3: A confirmation tone will indicate your line is in the question queue . You may press star two . If you would like to remove your question from the queue for participants using speaker equipment , it may be necessary to pick up your handset before pressing the star key .
Speaker #3: And again , that is star one . To ask a question . And our first question comes from Bernhard von Gizycki with Deutsche Bank .
Speaker #5: Morning .
Bart Caraway: Morning.
Speaker #7: Hey , guys . Good morning . Just curious on the on the merger with Keystone . The deal closes or expected to close by one Q just any expectations of how long the integration process may take ?
[Analyst 1]: Hey, guys. Good morning. Just curious, on the merger with Keystone, the deal closes or expected to close by 1/2/26. Just any expectations of how long the integration process may take? I know you noted in the decades that it should be straightforward integration given some operational compatibility. Just any color you can share? Are you on similar systems? Anything you can break out there?
Speaker #7: I know you noted in the deck that it should be straightforward integration, given some operational compatibility. Just any color you can share on similar systems?
Speaker #7: Anything you can break out there ?
Speaker #5: Yeah . Fortunately we coordinated very well with them . So we're looking at a very early second quarter core conversion with them . Fortunately , there contracts tied to our benefit .
Bart Caraway: Fortunately, we've coordinated very well with them. We're looking at a very early second quarter core conversion with them. Fortunately, their contracts tie to our benefit and expire basically in May. Plus, a lot of what they do business-wise is similar to us, so it's pretty easy to map over, and their cultural aspects are very much aligned with ours. We do expect the integration to be fairly straightforward.
Speaker #5: And expires at , you know , basically in May . Plus a lot of what they do business wise is similar to us .
Speaker #5: So it's pretty easy to map over . And their cultural aspects are very much aligned with ours . So we do expect the integration to be fairly straightforward .
Speaker #7: Okay . Understood . And then maybe just following up on the loan growth expected for for CU . I know , John , you mentioned the 50 million already in October .
[Analyst 1]: Okay. Understood. Maybe just following up on the loan growth expected for Q4. I know, John, you mentioned the $50 million already in October, and Bart, you mentioned the expectations are still the $50 to $100 million. That seems to be maybe conservative. Just wondering, any expectations that November, December might be maybe a little bit slower? Any thoughts on the pipelines and any color you can provide there?
Speaker #7: And Bart , you mentioned , you know , the expectations are still the 50 to 100 million . That seems to be maybe conservative .
Speaker #7: Just wondering any expectations that November December might be maybe a little bit slower . Just any thoughts on on the pipelines and any color you can provide ?
Speaker #7: There ?
Speaker #5: You know , Bernie , last quarter I said basically the same thing that July loans were up 50 million when we had our earnings call , and they ended up going up as much as 150 .
Bart Caraway: Bernie, last quarter, I said basically the same thing, that July loans were up $50 million when we had our earnings call, and they ended up going up as much as $150 million, and then we had a bunch of big payoffs towards the end of the quarter. We're still kind of comfortable with that $50 to $100 million number. We certainly always want to outperform, but we are up $50 million. That's going to be good for the averages for the quarter, but what happens later in the quarter as far as paydowns is just harder to predict.
Speaker #5: And then we had a bunch of big payoffs towards the end of the quarter . So , you know , we're still kind of comfortable with that 50 to $100 million number .
Speaker #5: We certainly always want to to outperform . But we are up 50 . I mean , that's going to be good for the averages for the quarter .
Speaker #5: But you know what happens later in the quarter as far as Paydowns , it's just harder to predict . Yeah , I echoed the same thing .
Bart Caraway: Yeah. I echo the same thing. I just try to keep the long vision as we're very consistent year after year. Whenever you sum it all up at the end of the year, we kind of meet what our projections are. The volatility gets very lumpy for us on it. It's just hard to tell year-end. It could even make a difference whether some loans get pushed into this year versus next year. Just everything happening with the noise in the economy, it's really hard to predict. What I will say is I feel really good about the loan pipelines and the quality of customers that we're seeing, and a lot of disruption that's happening in our markets we're benefiting from. We're just able to start seeing some of these clients that are really good quality clients.
Speaker #5: You know , again , I just try to keep the long vision as we're very consistent in year after year . Whenever you sum it all up at the end of the year , we kind of meet what our projections are .
Speaker #5: But the volatility , you know , gets very lumpy for us on it . So it's just hard to tell . Year in .
Speaker #5: You know , it could even make a difference whether some loans get , you know , pushed into this year versus next year .
Speaker #5: You know just everything happening with the noise and the economy . It's just really hard to predict . But what I will say is I feel really good about the loan pipelines and the quality of customers that we're seeing .
Speaker #5: And a lot of disruption that's happening in our markets where benefiting from . We're just able to start seeing some of these clients that are really good quality clients .
Speaker #5: We always talk about punching above our weight class and that we're getting to see . And , you know , we remain a talent magnet .
Bart Caraway: We always talk about punching above our weight class and that we're getting to see. We remain a talent magnet. Even this last few months, we've picked up a couple of bankers that are really people we're proud of that we didn't think we'd be able to get. They're going to also help with that funding part of it and the client acquisition. I just think we're poised in a great position. I don't want to overpromise and overcommit, and there's going to be some surprises where sometimes we may be more than what we think on a quarter, but then there are some times where we're going to have some paydowns and be a little less. Overall, we feel like we're right on target with where we're trying to go.
Speaker #5: And so even you know , this last few months , we've picked up a couple of bankers that are really people were proud of that .
Speaker #5: We didn't think we'd be able to get . And , you know , they're going to also help , you know , with that funding part of it .
Speaker #5: And the client acquisition . So I just think we're poised in a great position . I don't want to overpromise and overcommit . And there's going to be some surprises where sometimes we may be more than what we think on a quarter .
Speaker #5: But then there's some times where we're going to have some paydowns and be a little less , but overall , we feel like we're right on target with where we're trying to go .
Speaker #7: Great . Thanks for taking my questions .
[Analyst 1]: Great. Thanks for taking my questions.
Speaker #5: Thank you .
Bart Caraway: Thank you.
Speaker #3: Our next question comes from Woody Lei with KBW.
Natalie Hairston: Our next question comes from Woody Lay with KBW.
Speaker #8: Hey good morning guys .
[Analyst 2]: Good morning, guys.
Speaker #5: Morning , Woody .
Bart Caraway: Morning, Woody.
Speaker #8: Wanted to start on the expected EPs accretion of the deal . Is that based on consensus estimates or internal projections ? Because I mean , just based on the quarter , it would seem like consensus is a little low .
[Analyst 2]: Wanted to start on the expected EPS accretion of the deal. Is that based on consensus estimates or internal projections? Because, I mean, just based on the quarter, it would seem like consensus is a little low.
Speaker #5: Yeah , Woody , it is based on consensus . I mean , we've talked about that a lot internally . I mean , the hard thing is to know exactly what number to use .
Bart Caraway: Yeah. Woody, it is based on consensus. We've talked about that a lot internally. The hard thing is to know exactly what number to use. Certainly, we think that number is going to change over the next week or so as people saw our current earnings, and you know that that will reduce the accretion a little bit, but we don't think it's going to be material.
Speaker #5: I mean , certainly we think that number is going to change over the next week or so as people saw our current earnings .
Speaker #5: And , you know , that that will reduce the accretion a little bit . But we don't think it's going to be material .
Speaker #5: And further , if I can add on to this , the reason why we feel like it's going to be more accretive than even what we announced , because we didn't include any synergies .
Bart Caraway: Further, if I can add on to this, the reason why we feel like it's going to be more accretive than even what we announced is because we didn't include any synergies. We're being so conservative on this. There are a lot of things, just to give you an example of a few, where we think are going to fall to our benefit. For instance, we have one branch that overlaps with theirs, and eventually, one of those branches is going to get eliminated, and we're going to get some cost saved for that. They view us as a platform to where they can do more with what they have. As John and I were talking about, sent some emails around this morning, we have more than our fair share of derivative income, and they don't do derivatives at all.
Speaker #5: We were being so conservative on this . There are a lot of things . Just to give you an example of a few where we think are going to fall to our benefit .
Speaker #5: For instance , we have one branch that overlaps with theirs and eventually that one of those branches is going to get eliminated , and we're going to get some cost savings for that .
Speaker #5: You know , they view us as a platform to where they can do more with what they have . So as John and I were talking about some emails around this morning , is we have , you know , more than our fair share of derivative income and they don't do derivatives at all .
Speaker #5: So we're giving them tools on the Treasury side , on the loan side that we didn't bank in as far as synergies into this deal that are going to be pretty meaningful with it .
Bart Caraway: We're giving them tools on the treasury side and on the loan side that we didn't bank in as far as synergies into this deal that are going to be pretty meaningful with us. No matter what the numbers are, whenever we talk about the accretion side, there's a lot that we feel very comfortable of a buffer or padding that we have on the expense side or the increase in revenue that we're going to be able to get from this transaction to where, hands down, we think this is going to be very, very good for us. Not just because of that, but because we think the market is a very attractive market that's going to enhance our footprint and our value in the overall franchise.
Speaker #5: So , you know , no matter what the numbers are , you know , whenever we talk about , you know , the accretion side , there's a lot that we feel very comfortable of a buffer or padding that we have on the expense side or the , the increase in revenue that we're going to be able to get from this transaction to where Hands-down we think this is going to be a very , very good for us , and not just because of that , because we think the market is a very attractive market that's going to enhance our footprint and our value and overall franchise .
Speaker #8: All right . I appreciate the color there . Maybe just given , you know , you're going to be busy with the integration over the next couple quarters .
[Analyst 2]: All right. I appreciate the color there. Maybe just given, you know, you're going to be busy with integration over the next couple of quarters, how do you think about the near-term securitization strategy? Then longer term, just with a bigger balance sheet, does this open the door for additional flexibility on the securitization front?
Speaker #8: How do you how do you think about the near term securitization strategy . And then longer term , just with a bigger balance sheet ?
Speaker #8: Does this open the door for additional flexibility on the securitization front ?
Speaker #5: Yeah , it does would be good question . I check with the team earlier this morning and we are looking at a third securitization .
Bart Caraway: Yeah, it does, Woody. Good question. I checked with the team earlier this morning, and we are looking at a third securitization. It's probably not going to be a this-year transaction. These tend to be customer-dependent, but we do think at this point it'll be likely that we would do a similar securitization in the first quarter next year.
Speaker #5: It's probably not going to be a this year transaction . And you know , as always these these tend to be customer dependent .
Speaker #5: But but we do think at this point it'll be likely that we would do a similar securitization in the first quarter next year .
Speaker #8: Got it . And then just last for me , you're now at pro forma . You'll be at 6 billion . But you know , you're continue to be a strong organic grower just with , you know , 10 billion that threshold .
[Analyst 2]: Got it. Just last for me, you're now at, you know, pro forma, you'll be at $6 billion, but you'll continue to be a strong organic grower. Just with, you know, $10 billion, that threshold, do you see any expense investments that need to be made as you sort of approach the $10 billion mark?
Speaker #8: Do you see any expense investments that need to be made as you sort of approach the 10 billion mark ?
Speaker #5: Well , be honest with you . I think it's kind of already baked in . I mean , I think our , the examiners know that we've grown fast and they're kind of expect us to incrementally , you know , build on all of our controls .
Bart Caraway: To be honest with you, I think it's kind of already baked in. I think the examiners know that we've grown fast, and they're kind of expecting us to incrementally build on all of our controls. What we're trying to do is be smart about it and build in a lot more systems and controls instead of just adding people as we continue to grow. I think we're a long way away from $10 billion, but the expectations are always that you start putting that in place. I think that's just normal management and normal processes for us to think about that and continue. I think it's healthy for the bank to be in a position where we have strong controls and reporting in place, period.
Speaker #5: And , you know , what we're trying to do is be smart about it . And build in a lot more systems and controls instead of just adding people as we we continue to grow .
Speaker #5: You know , I think we're a long way away from 10 billion . But the expectations are always is that you start , you know , putting that in place .
Speaker #5: And I think that's just normal management and normal processes for us to think about that . And continue . And , you know , I think it's healthy for the bank to be in a position where , you know , we have strong controls and reporting in place , you know , period .
Speaker #5: So I don't think it's going to be a factor where on the PNL that we're going to see some sort of impact as we continue to grow , because I think we're doing it along the way .
Bart Caraway: I don't think it's going to be a factor where on the P&L that we're going to see some sort of impact as we continue to grow because I think we're doing it along the way.
Speaker #8: Got it . Well , I appreciate you answering my questions and congrats on the deal .
[Analyst 2]: Got it. I appreciate you answering my questions, and congrats on the deal.
Speaker #5: Thank you very much .
Bart Caraway: Thank you very much.
Speaker #3: We'll go next to Michael Rose with Raymond James .
Natalie Hairston: We'll go next to Michael Rose with Raymond James.
Speaker #9: Hey , good morning guys . Thanks for taking my questions . Good morning . I wanted to just start on the fee side .
[Analyst 3]: Good morning, guys. Thanks for taking my questions.
[Analyst 2]: Morning.
[Analyst 3]: Wanted to just start on the fee side. Another really good quarter. You guys have had some really good momentum here, but I did notice the service charge lineup is up fairly meaningfully quarter to quarter. I assume some of it's seasonal, just given what we saw last Q3. We'd just love any updated thoughts on fee income, particularly, and some of the ongoing efforts that you've talked about, Bart, over the past year or two. Thanks.
Speaker #9: Another really good quarter . You guys have had some really good momentum here , but I noticed the service charge line up fairly meaningfully .
Speaker #9: Quarter . I assume some of it's seasonal . Just given what we saw last third quarter . But we just love any updated thoughts on on fee income specifically .
Speaker #9: And you know , some of the ongoing efforts that you've talked about , Bert , over the over the past year or two ?
Speaker #9: Thanks .
Speaker #5: Yeah . Fees have certainly been a bright spot . Remember , we we converted to to FIS back in . I guess it was June and you know , there's there's better bigger products .
Bart Caraway: Yeah. Fees have certainly been a bright spot. Remember, we converted to FIS back in, I guess it was June. There's better, bigger products. It gives us more opportunity to sell things that we weren't before. We think on both the treasury side and the loan side that, for this quarter, that's where a lot of that came from. Going forward, we're not going to see the same kind of growth quarter over quarter. This was a particularly good quarter, but we're pretty confident that our fee income initiatives will continue working out, and better treasury products and happier customers, and it's just all turning out well.
Speaker #5: I mean it gives us more opportunity to sell things that we weren't before . So we think on both the Treasury side and the loan side that well , I know for this quarter , I mean , that's where a lot of that came from .
Speaker #5: But going forward , I mean , you know , we're not going to see the same kind of growth quarter over quarter . I mean , this was a particularly good quarter .
Speaker #5: But but we're we're pretty pretty confident that that our fee income initiatives will , you know , continue working out and you know , better .
Speaker #5: Treasury products . And , you know , happier customers . And it's just all turning out well .
Speaker #9: But probably safe to assume we see a little bit of a step down in the fourth quarter . Just given some of the seasonal aspects .
[Analyst 3]: is probably safe to assume we see a little bit of a step down in the fourth quarter, just given some of the seasonal aspects. Is that fair?
Speaker #9: Is that fair ?
Speaker #5: Correct . You know , flat to down a little bit ? Yes .
Bart Caraway: Correct. You know, flat to down a little bit, yes.
Speaker #9: Okay . Perfect . And then , you know , as you guys have talked about , you know , the , the , the the long growth story continues to be very , very strong .
[Analyst 3]: Okay. Perfect. As you guys have talked about, the loan growth story continues to be very, very strong. What's the hiring effort look like at this point to kind of support that high single-digit growth aspect? It seems like every bank that I talk to out there is looking to hire folks and just wanted to see what your guys' plans are and what the expense build could be kind of related to that. Thanks.
Speaker #9: What what's the hiring effort look like at this point to kind of support that high single digit growth aspect ? It seems like every bank that I talk to out there is , is looking to hire folks and just wanted to see , you know , what , what your guys plans are .
Speaker #9: And what the expense build could be kind of related to that . Thanks .
Speaker #5: Yeah , I think it's the same story we've talked about for like after we went public , obviously we went on a hiring spree and then I started talking about the fact that we're going to be very surgical and once again , I mean , it's it's continued down the same path where I think we have become a talent magnet and that we we get a lot look at a lot of the talent that's in the market that's out there .
Bart Caraway: Yeah. I think it's the same story we've talked about for like after we went public. Obviously, we went on a hiring spree, and then I started talking about the fact that we're going to be very surgical. Once again, it's continued down the same path where I think we have become a talent magnet and that we get a look at a lot of the talent that's in the market that's out there. Certainly, disruptions in the market do help us. You know, we sort of have our pipeline of people that we want. I think it's going to be basically what I'd call almost one-offs or surgical that we get. These people are going to be highly productive. They probably come with just a small support team, and they're going to generate a lot of productivity for us.
Speaker #5: And certainly disruptions in the market do help us . But , you know , we sort of have our our pipeline of people that we want and I think it's going to be basically what we call those one offs or surgical that we get .
Speaker #5: And these people are going to be highly productive . They probably come with just a small support team , and they're going to generate a lot of productivity for us .
Speaker #5: And so that's probably from a what John had talked I talked about deploying resources and making sure we control the personnel . We're just getting the highest and best talent that's out there .
Bart Caraway: That's probably from what John and I talk about, deploying resources and making sure we control the P&L. We're just getting the highest and best talent that's out there, so we get a return faster. Indeed, some of the people that come on board, they may be profitable, you know, after their first deal or two. I feel real good about where we are. We're not on a massive hiring spree like we did in the past, but we are still hiring, you know, some bankers selectively. They're just best-in-class folks. Me and Audrey both are like, we want to make sure not only do they check, you know, the bucket or the box that they are good quality, but that they're going to bring the right kind of credits that we want. We vet them very, very thoroughly. Man, this year's been exceptional.
Speaker #5: So we get a return faster . And indeed some of the people that come on board , I mean , they may be profitable , you know , after their first deal or two .
Speaker #5: So I feel real good about where we are . We're not on a massive hiring spree like we did in the past , but we are we are still hiring , you know , some bankers selectively , and they're just best in class , folks .
Speaker #5: And me and Audrey are both are like , we want to make sure not only do they check , you know , the bucket that or the box that they are good quality , but they're going to bring the right kind of credits that we want .
Speaker #5: And so we vet them very , very thoroughly . And , and this year's been exceptional . We've made a couple few hires that I've just in 20 , 26 are going to make a big impact for us .
Bart Caraway: We've made a couple of few hires that I've just in 2026 are going to make a big impact for us.
Speaker #9: It's great to hear . , you know , kudos to the success and ongoing momentum as we move forward . Maybe just one final one for me .
[Analyst 3]: That's great to hear. Kudos to the success and ongoing momentum as we move forward. Maybe just one final one for me. I didn't necessarily think that a deal was in the cards for you guys. I know the currency is a little bit depressed, but glad to see the transaction. Maybe now pro forma $6 billion, if you can describe kind of, would additional deals at some point beyond this one make sense? Specifically, what would you kind of look for? I assume it looks something like this in terms of size, but would just love kind of a schematic of how we should think about M&A for you guys. Thanks.
Speaker #9: You know , I didn't necessarily think that a deal was was in the cards for you guys . I know the currency is a little bit depressed , but glad to see the transaction .
Speaker #9: Maybe , you know , now pro forma six 6 billion . If you can describe kind of , you know what additional deals at some point beyond this one makes sense .
Speaker #9: And specifically what would you what would you kind of look for ? I assume it looks something like this in terms of size , but would just love kind of a schematic of how we should think about M&A for you guys .
Speaker #9: Thanks .
Speaker #5: Yeah , I think it's the same thing we've been talking about . You know , the first deal we did with heritage , we called it the unicorn because it was just such a great thing for us .
Bart Caraway: Yeah. I think it's the same thing we've been talking about. You know, the first deal we did with Heritage, we called it the unicorn because it was just such a great thing for us. It put us over a billion. It certainly helped us scale and efficiencies. It helped us with, you know, our market presence. It doubled our branches. The people that were there, a lot of them have become very valuable members for us in leadership roles. I view the same thing that's going to happen with Keystone in that, you know, Jeff, you know, my counterpart there, is a great banker, and they have, they're loaded with talent at that bank. Quite frankly, it even surprised me at kind of the level of their customer base. I mean, in some ways, they're kind of punching above their weight class too.
Speaker #5: It put us over a billion . It certainly helped us scale and efficiencies . It helped us with , you know , our market presence doubled our branches .
Speaker #5: You know , in the people that were there , a lot of them have become very valuable members for us . In leadership roles .
Speaker #5: And I view the same thing that's going to happen with with Keystone and that , you know , Jeff , you know , my counterpart there is a great banker and they have they're loaded with talent at that bank .
Speaker #5: And quite frankly , they even surprised me . It's kind of the level of their customer base . I mean , in some ways they're kind of punching above their weight class to and because of the cultural fit with it .
Bart Caraway: Because of the cultural fit with it, I think we're going to get a lot of positives, even more than what I think, out of this merger. It sets the bar very high, right? It's got to be financially rewarding for us, but it also has to be a great cultural fit. It's got to be the right, you know, it's got to check a lot of boxes. Those deals are really hard to come by. What I would say is that the bar for another deal is going to be pretty high. It's got to make sense for us. There are a lot of other things that have to happen. We're going to continue to execute on the organic story that we've been telling y'all about. You know, we're opportunists. We'll look at a lot of deals, and we'll see where we're at.
Speaker #5: I think we're going to get a lot of positives , even more than what I think out of this merger . And but it sets the bar very high , right ?
Speaker #5: So it's got to be financially rewarding for us , but it also has to be a great cultural fit . It's got to be the right , you know , it's got to check a lot of boxes and those deals are really hard to come by .
Speaker #5: So what I would say is the bar for another deal is going to be pretty high . It's got to it's going to make sense for for us .
Speaker #5: And there's a lot of other things that has to happen . So we're going to continue to execute on the organic story that we've been telling you all about .
Speaker #5: And , you know , we're opportunist . We'll look at a lot of deals and we'll see where we're at . I mean , John and I talked about we looked at a deal earlier this year and we came in third out of three on a bid process with it .
Bart Caraway: I mean, John and I talked about we looked at a deal earlier this year, and we came in third out of three on a bid process with it, and we're okay with that. We're just going to be very, very disciplined about what we do next with stuff. I think it's just more of the same.
Speaker #5: And we're okay with that . We're just going to be very , very disciplined about what we do next with stuff . And so , you know , I think it's just more of the same .
Speaker #9: I appreciate the caller. Thanks for taking my questions, guys.
[Analyst 3]: Appreciate the color, Bart. Thanks for taking the questions, guys.
Speaker #5: Thank you .
Bart Caraway: Thank you.
Speaker #3: And as a reminder , if you would like to ask a question , please press star one on your telephone keypad and we'll go next to Matt Olney with Stephens .
Natalie Hairston: As a reminder, if you would like to ask a question, please press star one on your telephone keypad. We'll go next to Matt Olney with Stevens.
Speaker #10: Hey , thanks . Good morning . First question for John around the margin you gave us the margin expectations for the fourth quarter .
Bart Caraway: Hey, thanks. Good morning. First question for John around the margin. You gave us the margin expectations for the fourth quarter. Any more details you can provide as far as kind of what's behind that? I just assume it's more of a normalized level of loan fees that you mentioned were elevated this quarter. Anything beyond that? Just other assumptions behind that with respect to interest rates and additional Fed cuts, and just remind us where you are as far as your rate sensitivity. Thanks.
Speaker #10: Any more details you can provide as far as kind of what's what's behind that ? I just assume it's more of a normalized level of loan fees that you mentioned were elevated this quarter .
Speaker #10: Anything beyond that . And then just other assumptions behind that . With respect to interest rates and additional fed cuts and and just remind us where you are as far as your rates sensitivity .
Speaker #10: Thanks .
Speaker #11: Yeah . You know , if you look back at our margin over , over time , we were kind of in the 370 to 380 range .
Bart Caraway: Yeah. You know, if you look back at our margin over time, we were kind of in the 3.70% to 3.80% range and really jumped up when we did those securitizations. You know, those were one-time fees that we're obviously not forecasting going forward. This quarter, it wasn't directly tied to those securitizations, but kind of the same concept of loans paying off. We booked a lot of loans this year that had a lot of fees that we capitalized. I think I said in my comments that our capitalized fees are now a record $19 million. Maybe I'm being a little conservative and saying 3.90% to 3.95%, but that's still a pretty big jump from where we were just back in the first quarter. Now, when I look at the margin on a monthly basis after the Fed cut rates, our margin did go up one basis point.
Speaker #11: And really .
Speaker #5: Jumped up when we did those securitizations . And , you know , those were one time fees that , you know , we're obviously not forecasting going forward this quarter .
Speaker #5: I mean , it wasn't directly tied to those securitizations , but , you know , kind of the same concept of , you know , loans paying off .
Speaker #5: We we've we've booked a lot of loans this year that had a lot of fees that we capitalized . I think I said in my comments that our capitalized fees are now a record $19 million .
Speaker #5: So, maybe I’m being a little conservative in saying $3.90 to $3.95, but that’s still a pretty big jump from where we were just back in the first quarter.
Speaker #5: Now , when I look at the the margin on a monthly basis after the fed cut rates , our margin did go up one basis point .
Speaker #5: So , you know , our Q is going to show that we're slightly asset sensitive . But , you know , I think we're going to outperform our assumptions .
Bart Caraway: Our Q2 is going to show that we're slightly asset-sensitive, but I think we're going to outperform our assumptions. We pretty aggressively cut rates on all the deposit accounts that we could. I think we have more to give, if that makes sense. Having a relatively low non-interest-bearing balance means that we can cut rates on a higher percentage of our total deposits. That's certainly what happened when the Fed cut rates the first time. It's what happened when they cut rates last year. It's what I think will happen when they cut rates this next time. We've probably become a little bit less asset-sensitive just because of the securities that we've been purchasing. Our securities book is much bigger than it was a year ago, and I think that'll help in the rates down.
Speaker #5: We pretty aggressively cut rates on all the deposit accounts that we could . And I think we have more to give if that makes sense .
Speaker #5: You know , having a relatively low noninterest bearing balance means that we can cut rates on a higher percentage of our total deposits .
Speaker #5: You know , that's certainly what happened when when the fed cut rates the first time , it's what happened when they cut rates last year .
Speaker #5: It's what I think will happen when they cut rates this next time . And we've probably become a little bit less asset sensitive just because of the securities that that we've been purchasing .
Speaker #5: Our securities book is much bigger than it was a year ago . And I think that'll help in the rates down that we had pretty good timing on our investment purchases , that our yield on that portfolio is 6% .
Bart Caraway: We had pretty good timing on our investment purchases that our yield on that portfolio is 6%, and I think it's going to throw off a lot of income next year.
Speaker #5: And I think it's going to going to throw off a lot of income next year .
Speaker #10: Okay . That's helpful John . And then you mentioned that securities portfolio . What remind us what portion of that is going to be variable that we should consider with with down rates .
[Analyst 3]: Okay. That's helpful, John. You mentioned that securities portfolio. Remind us what portion of that is going to be variable that we should consider with down rates.
Speaker #5: Yeah . So I guess it's close to 600 million . There's about 200 million of that . That's variable . Now one thing that's maybe a little hard to predict is we have had a lot of securities called recently .
Bart Caraway: Yeah, I guess it's close to $600 million. There's about $200 million of that that's variable. One thing that's maybe a little hard to predict is we have had a lot of securities called recently, but you know, we don't expect big changes in the portfolio.
Speaker #5: But you know , we don't expect big changes in the in the portfolio .
Speaker #10: Okay .
[Analyst 3]: Okay.
Speaker #5: But basically what we have is the maturity match . So the 206 million we have in held to maturity , that's all floating rate .
Bart Caraway: What we have in held to maturity, Matt, so the $206 million we have in held to maturity, that's all floating rate, and pretty much everything else is fixed.
Speaker #5: And pretty much everything else is fixed .
Speaker #10: Okay . Thanks . Thanks for that . And then you touched on some deposit pricing competition in your in your markets . Anything else to add there .
[Analyst 3]: Okay. Thanks for that. You touched on some deposit pricing competition in your markets. Anything else to add there? The same thing for loan pricing competition. Just appreciate anything that you're feeling in the market more recently. Thanks.
Speaker #10: And then same thing for loan pricing competition . Just appreciate anything that you're feeling . The market more recently . Thanks .
Speaker #5: Yeah we're we're feeling more confident about deposit growth than we have in quite some time . And this is going to be good core deposit growth where I think we're going to be able to start paying down some of our broker deposits and improve the the cost of funds there a little bit .
Bart Caraway: Yeah. We are feeling more confident about deposit growth than we have in quite some time. This is going to be good core deposit growth where I think we're going to be able to start paying down some of our broker deposits and improve the cost of funds there a little bit. You know, we may not be talking about huge numbers, but saving 10 bps on tens or hundreds of millions of dollars, it can add up in a hurry. That's kind of what I envision over the next couple of quarters. Remember, in recent years, we have one particular seasonal customer, and it seems like every year they send us more and more in deposits. Those funds, we're kind of already seeing them out there on the horizon, talking to the customer that those will be coming.
Speaker #5: And it you know , we may not be talking about . Huge numbers , but you know , saving ten basis points on , you know , tens or hundreds of millions of dollars .
Speaker #5: I mean , it can add up in a hurry , but that's that's kind of what I envision over the next couple of quarters .
Speaker #5: Remember , in recent years , we have one particular seasonal customer , and it seems like every year they send us more and more in deposits and those funds were kind of already seeing them out there on the horizon , talking to the customer that that those will be coming .
Speaker #5: And , you know , I think we'll let some of our brokered roll off and replace it with those . And again , they're not cheap deposits , but they'll be a little less expensive than what we currently have .
Bart Caraway: I think we'll let some of our broker deposits roll off and replace it with those. Again, they're not cheap deposits, but they'll be a little less expensive than what we currently have. That'll be a little bit of a tailwind to the margin.
Speaker #5: So that'll that'll be a little bit of a tailwind to the margin .
Speaker #10: Okay . Well that's all for me . Congrats on the acquisition . Thanks guys .
[Analyst 3]: That's all for me. Congrats on the acquisition. Thanks, guys.
Speaker #12: Thank you .
Speaker #3: And moving next to Dave Storms with Stonegate .
Bart Caraway: Thank you.
Natalie Hairston: Moving next to Dave Storms with Stonegate.
Speaker #13: Good morning and thank you for taking my morning Dave . Just wanted to kind of ask two maybe around the merger . Could you maybe talk a little bit more about your comfortability with your geographical footprint ?
[Analyst 1]: morning. Thank you for taking my call.
Bart Caraway: Morning, Dave.
[Analyst 1]: Just wanted to kind of ask too, maybe around the merger. Could you maybe talk a little bit more about your comfortability with your geographical footprint? You know, maybe getting back to that last question, are there any MSAs that you would target to expand into now that you've really shored up your presence in Austin, Texas?
Speaker #13: You know , maybe getting back to last question , are there any MSAs that you would target to expand into now that you've really shored up your presence in Austin ?
Speaker #5: You know , that's a really good question . And something we think about as well . I think our our primary goal is to continue build around the Texas Triangle with that .
Bart Caraway: Yeah. That's a really good question and something we think about as well. I think our primary goal is to continue to build around the Texas Triangle with that. You know, Austin, if you look at the market, if I'm correct, if you look at independent community banks, there's really only two independent community banks over $500 million in assets. We talk about scarcity value a lot with it, and Austin is a prime example of that. We're so lucky with Keystone to be able to get that because it gives us a foothold in that other.
Speaker #5: And , you know , Austin , if you look at the market from if I'm correct , if you look at independent community banks , there was really only two independent community banks , over 500 million in assets .
Speaker #5: So we talk about scarcity value a lot with it . And in Austin is a prime example of that . It's you know , we're so lucky with Keystone to be able to get that because it gives us a foothold in that Austin market and gets us some assets there , which I think the market is growing .
Natalie Hairston: Market and get to some assets there, which I think the market that's growing, that is, you know, has a lot of opportunity to go get some of these different customers from the community to the middle market side of it, especially as the other banks get bigger and there's more consolidation. That was kind of a rare opportunity that worked. We would certainly look at our other markets. We talked a little bit about being a talent magnet, and I think the market, you know, I've finally seen that we're able to acquire bankers that are just exceptional, that are working for much larger banks. Being that talent magnet certainly affords us to be able to grow organically. I kind of think we're almost like a platform magnet for some of these other banks now.
Speaker #5: That is , you know , has a lot of , you know , opportunity for to go get some of these different customers from community to middle market side of it , especially as the other banks get bigger and there's more consolidation .
Speaker #5: So that was kind of a rare opportunity that that worked . We would certainly look at our our other markets , but you know , we talked a little bit about being a talent magnet .
Speaker #5: And I think the market . You know , finally seeing that we're able to , you know , you know , acquire bankers that are just exceptional , that are working for much larger banks .
Speaker #5: And , you know , being that talent magnet , certainly a affords us to be able to grow organically . But I kind of think we're almost like a platform magnet for some of these other banks .
Speaker #5: Now , we give certain banks the opportunity if they want to take it to the next step . We have the infrastructure , the technology .
Natalie Hairston: We give certain banks the opportunity, if they want to take it to the next step, we have the infrastructure, the technology, now the systems in place that if they're looking for a partnership, we offer a platform for them to continue to do what they want to do and grow a certain market. Some of this is about cultural fit and about a partnership that would make a difference for us. I hope we can continue in that Texas Triangle with all of it, but it could be adjacent to that, or, you know, we're opportunist and look at things that add shareholder value. Ultimately, the way we look at it is what are we going to do that's going to make this franchise more valuable?
Speaker #5: Now , the systems in place that if they're looking for a partnership with it , you know , we offer a platform for them to continue to do what they want to do and grow a certain market .
Speaker #5: So some of this is about cultural fit and about , you know , a partnership that would make a difference for us . And I hope we can continue in that Texas triangle with all of it .
Speaker #5: But it could be adjacent to that . Or , you know , we're opportunist and look at things that add shareholder value . I mean , ultimately , the way we look at it is what are we going to do that's going to , you know , make this franchise more valuable .
Speaker #5: So I don't know if you were going there , Dave , with it , but it was a really good question that I think it's I think we're proving up that we can be a very good partner for , for other banks .
Natalie Hairston: I don't know if you were going there, Dave, with it, but it was a really good question that I think we're proving up that we can be a very good partner for other banks. I'm not so sure that with the Keystone merger, that's not going to open up more phone calls to me about banks that now have another avenue.
Speaker #5: And I'm not so sure that with the Keystone merger that that's not going to open up more phone calls to me about , you know , banks that are are have now have another , you know , avenue .
Speaker #13: Yeah . That's great . Thank you for that . One more for me . If I could just looking at some of the review of the Keystone credit profile , it looks like they do have , you know , really high quality credit profile , strong asset quality .
Bart Caraway: No, that's great, Holly. Thank you for that. One more for me, if I could. Just looking at some of the overview of the Keystone credit profile, it looks like they do have a really high-quality credit profile, strong asset quality. Is there anything that they're doing that you can see that they're doing now, kind of before your hands on it, that you think could be mapped over to Third Coast and improve your underwriting, improve your asset quality even further?
Speaker #13: Is there anything that they're doing that you can see that they're doing now ? You know , kind of before you get your hands on it that you think could be mapped over to Third Coast and improve your underwriting , improve your asset quality even further .
Speaker #5: Yeah . So what I would tell you is we really have a good customer base there that we're happy with . And Aldrin are talking about .
Natalie Hairston: Yeah. What I would tell you is we really have a good customer base there that we're happy with. Audrey and I are talking about we want to, you know, we looked at the loans, we felt comfortable, but we also engaged Gateway to do a loan review, and it came out really well, right, Audrey? I mean.
Speaker #5: We want to you know , we looked at the loans , we felt comfortable . But we also engaged gateway to do a loan review .
Speaker #5: And it came out really well . Right . Audrey ? I mean , yeah , I mean .
Speaker #6: Gateway looked at 80% of their commercial loan portfolio and the results were very , very favorable . You're correct . They have very strong asset quality .
John McWhorter: Gateway looked at 80% of their commercial loan portfolio, and the results were very, very favorable. You're correct, they have very strong asset quality.
Speaker #5: So I think what it is , is again , we layer the tools on top of what they're doing . And I think we can get , you know , more wallet share out of some of their large customers .
Natalie Hairston: I think what it is, is again, we layer the tools on top of what they're doing. I think we can get more wallet share out of some of their large customers, give them some more products to go out there and compete with some of the bigger banks now. I'm pretty excited to see what they're able to do with our additional tools.
Speaker #5: Give them some more products to go out there and compete with some of the bigger banks . Now . So I'm pretty excited about to see what they're able to do with with our our additional tools .
Speaker #13: That's perfect . Thanks for taking my questions .
Bart Caraway: That's perfect. Thanks for taking my questions.
Speaker #5: Thank you . Appreciate it .
Natalie Hairston: Thank you, Dave. Appreciate it.
Speaker #3: This now concludes our question and answer session . I would like to turn the floor back to Bart Caraway for closing comments .
Audrey Spalding: This now concludes our question and answer session. I would like to turn the floor back to Bart Caraway for closing comments.
Speaker #5: Thank you . Carrie . Appreciate that . And thanks everybody for your interest in Third Coast Bancshares, Inc. and we look forward to talking to you next quarter .
Natalie Hairston: Thank you, Carrie. Appreciate that. Thank you, everybody, for your interest in Third Coast Bancshares. We look forward to talking to you next quarter. Thank you.
Speaker #5: Thank you .
Speaker #3: Ladies and gentlemen , thank you for your participation . This does conclude today's teleconference . You may disconnect your lines and have a wonderful day .
Audrey Spalding: Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your participation. This does conclude today's teleconference. You may disconnect your lines and have a wonderful day.