Old National Q4 2025 Old National Bancorp Earnings Call | AllMind AI Earnings | AllMind AI
Q4 2025 Old National Bancorp Earnings Call
Operator: Welcome to the Old National Bancorp Q4, Q&A 2025 Earnings Conference call. This call is being recorded and has been made accessible to the public in accordance with the SEC's Regulation FD. Corresponding presentation slides can be found on the Investor Relations page at oldnational.com and will be archived there for 12 months. Management would like to remind everyone that certain statements on today's call may be forward-looking in nature and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ from those discussed. The company refers you to its forward-looking statement legend in the earnings release and presentation slides. The company's risk factors are fully disclosed and discussed within its SEC filings. In addition, certain slides contain non-GAAP measures which management believes provide more appropriate comparisons. These non-GAAP measures are intended to assist investors' understanding of performance trends.
Speaker #1: Welcome to the old National Bancorp . Fourth quarter and full year 2025 earnings conference call . This call is being recorded and has been made accessible to the public in accordance SEC's with the regulation .
Speaker #1: FD. Corresponding presentation slides can be found on the Investor Relations page at Old National and will be archived there for 12 months.
Speaker #1: Management would like to remind everyone that certain statements on today's call may be forward-looking in nature, and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ from those discussed.
Speaker #1: The company refers you to its forward looking statement . Legend in the earnings presentation slides . The company's risk factors are fully disclosed and discussed within its SEC filings .
Speaker #1: In addition, certain slides contain measures which non-GAAP management believes provide more appropriate comparisons. These non-GAAP measures are intended to assist investors' understanding of performance trends.
Jim Ryan: Reconciliations for those numbers are contained within the appendix of the presentation. I'd now like to turn the call over to Old National's Chairman and CEO, Jim Ryan, for opening remarks. Mr. Ryan. Good morning. Before we get started, I want to congratulate the Indiana Hoosiers for a perfect season and winning the National College Football Championship. You've made our state incredibly proud. Earlier today, Old National announced strong Q4 earnings, marking an exceptional year that set new organizational records for adjusted earnings per share, net income, and the efficiency ratio. Our 2025 results were driven by a focus on the fundamentals: core deposit growth to support loan expansion, positive operating leverage, disciplined credit management, and healthy liquidity and capital ratios. Once again, we showed our unwavering commitment to shareholders, clients, team members, and communities.
Reconciliations for those numbers are contained within the appendix of the presentation. I'd now like to turn the call over to Old National's Chairman and CEO, Jim Ryan, for opening remarks. Mr. Ryan.
Speaker #1: Reconciliations for those numbers are contained within the appendix of the presentation. I'd now like to turn the call over to Old National's Chairman and CEO, Jim Ryan, for opening remarks.
Jim Ryan: Good morning. Before we get started, I want to congratulate the Indiana Hoosiers for a perfect season and winning the National College Football Championship. You've made our state incredibly proud. Earlier today, Old National announced strong Q4 earnings, marking an exceptional year that set new organizational records for adjusted earnings per share, net income, and the efficiency ratio. Our 2025 results were driven by a focus on the fundamentals: core deposit growth to support loan expansion, positive operating leverage, disciplined credit management, and healthy liquidity and capital ratios. Once again, we showed our unwavering commitment to shareholders, clients, team members, and communities.
Speaker #1: Ryan Mr. .
Speaker #2: Good morning. Before we get started, I want to congratulate the Indiana Hoosiers for a perfect season and winning the National College Football Championship.
Speaker #2: You've made our state incredibly proud . Earlier today , Old National announced strong fourth quarter earnings , marking an exceptional year that set new organizational records for adjusted earnings per share , net income and efficiency ratio .
Speaker #2: Our 2025 results were driven by a focus on the fundamentals: core deposit growth to support loan expansion, positive operating leverage, disciplined credit management, and healthy liquidity and capital ratios.
Jim Ryan: Our peer-leading Q4 profitability was highlighted by an adjusted return on average tangible common equity of nearly 20%, an adjusted ROA of 1.37%, and an adjusted efficiency ratio of 46%. These outstanding quarterly results further reinforced the momentum behind our 2025 record performance that John will discuss later in the call. In Q4 of 2025, we successfully completed the systems conversion and integration related to our Bremer Bank partnership. This was a major effort executed exceptionally well, and I want to thank our team members once again for their relentless focus and hard work throughout this process. The conversion reaffirmed the strength of our disciplined integration framework, which truly sets Old National apart. As we have stated, driving tangible book value per share growth is a key priority.
Our peer-leading Q4 profitability was highlighted by an adjusted return on average tangible common equity of nearly 20%, an adjusted ROA of 1.37%, and an adjusted efficiency ratio of 46%. These outstanding quarterly results further reinforced the momentum behind our 2025 record performance that John will discuss later in the call. In Q4 of 2025, we successfully completed the systems conversion and integration related to our Bremer Bank partnership. This was a major effort executed exceptionally well, and I want to thank our team members once again for their relentless focus and hard work throughout this process. The conversion reaffirmed the strength of our disciplined integration framework, which truly sets Old National apart. As we have stated, driving tangible book value per share growth is a key priority.
Speaker #2: Once again , we showed our commitment unwavering to shareholders , clients , team members and communities . Our peer leading fourth quarter profitability was highlighted by an adjusted return on average , common equity of nearly 20% and an adjusted ROA of 1.37% and an adjusted efficiency ratio of 46% .
Speaker #2: These outstanding quarterly results further reinforce the momentum behind our 2025 record performance that John will discuss later in the call . In the fourth quarter of 2025 , we successfully completed the systems conversion and integration related to our Bremer Bank partnership .
Speaker #2: This major effort was executed exceptionally well, and I want to thank our team members once again for their relentless focus and hard work throughout this process.
Speaker #2: The conversion reaffirmed the strength of our disciplined integration framework , which truly sets old National apart as we have stated , driving tangible book value per share growth is a key priority this past year , we grew tangible book value per share by 15% .
Jim Ryan: This past year, we grew tangible book value per share by 15% despite the impact of closing our Bremer partnership, the associated one-time charges, and repurchasing 2.2 million shares in the back half of the year. We remained committed to strengthening tangible book value per share while continuing to drive peer-leading profitability. Looking ahead to 2026, we will maintain the right balance between building capital organically and returning capital through share repurchases supported by our peer-leading return on average tangible common equity. As I mentioned last quarter, the best investment we can make is in ourselves. Our focus remains on organic growth and disciplined capital returns to maximize shareholder value. We started 2026 with strong momentum, and we will continue to strengthen our core fundamentals by investing in talent, technology, and client-facing capabilities. These efforts will ensure we remain strong, scalable, and positioned for long-term success. Thank you.
This past year, we grew tangible book value per share by 15% despite the impact of closing our Bremer partnership, the associated one-time charges, and repurchasing 2.2 million shares in the back half of the year. We remained committed to strengthening tangible book value per share while continuing to drive peer-leading profitability. Looking ahead to 2026, we will maintain the right balance between building capital organically and returning capital through share repurchases supported by our peer-leading return on average tangible common equity. As I mentioned last quarter, the best investment we can make is in ourselves. Our focus remains on organic growth and disciplined capital returns to maximize shareholder value. We started 2026 with strong momentum, and we will continue to strengthen our core fundamentals by investing in talent, technology, and client-facing capabilities. These efforts will ensure we remain strong, scalable, and positioned for long-term success. Thank you.
Speaker #2: Despite the impact of closing our Bremer partnership , the associated one time charges and repurchasing 2.2 million shares in the back the half of year , we remain committed to strengthening tangible book value per share while continuing to drive peer leading profitability .
Speaker #2: Looking ahead to 2026 , we will maintain the right balance between building capital organically and returning capital through share repurchases , supported by our peer leading return .
Speaker #2: On average , tangible common equity . As I mentioned last quarter , the best investment we can make is in ourselves . Our focus remains organic on growth and disciplined capital returns to maximize shareholder value started .
Speaker #2: We 2026 with strong momentum , and we will continue to strengthen our core fundamentals by investing in talent , technology and client facing capabilities .
Jim Ryan: I will now hand the call over to John to read the financial results in more detail. Thanks. On slide 5, as Jim mentioned, Q4 2025 was a strong finish to a highly successful year marked by records in adjusted EPS and efficiency with peer-leading profitability, improvement in already durable credit metrics, and significant capital generation despite closing Bremer, which solidified our position in Minnesota while adding attractive funding in North Dakota. Speaking of our latest partnership, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that the conversion of Bremer was one of our smoothest and most successful integrations ever. For the quarterly details on slide 6, we reported GAAP Q4 earnings per share of $0.55.
I will now hand the call over to John to read the financial results in more detail.
Speaker #2: efforts ensure we will These remain strong , scalable and positioned for long term success . Thank you . I will now hand the call over to John to review the financial results in more detail .
John Moran: Thanks. On slide 5, as Jim mentioned, Q4 2025 was a strong finish to a highly successful year marked by records in adjusted EPS and efficiency with peer-leading profitability, improvement in already durable credit metrics, and significant capital generation despite closing Bremer, which solidified our position in Minnesota while adding attractive funding in North Dakota. Speaking of our latest partnership, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that the conversion of Bremer was one of our smoothest and most successful integrations ever. For the quarterly details on slide 6, we reported GAAP Q4 earnings per share of $0.55.
Speaker #2: Thanks . On slide five , as Jim mentioned , fourth quarter finish to a 2025 was a strong highly successful year marked by records in adjusted EPs and efficiency , with peer leading profitability improvement in already durable credit metrics and significant capital generation .
Speaker #2: Despite closing Bremer , which solidified our position in Minnesota while adding attractive funding in North Dakota . Speaking of our latest partnership , I'd be remiss if I didn't mention conversion of that the Bremer was one of our smoothest most and successful integrations ever for the quarterly details on slide six , we reported GAAP for Q earnings per share of $0.55 , excluding $0.07 of merger related expenses .
Jim Ryan: Excluding $0.07 of merger-related expenses, Bremer pension plan termination charges, and the reduction in our FDIC special assessment accrual, adjusted earnings per share were $0.62, a 5% increase over the prior quarter and a 27% increase year over year. Results were driven by stable margin, better-than-expected growth in fee income, and well-controlled expenses. Importantly, credit improved with an 8% reduction in total criticized and classified loans, and low levels of non-PCD charge-offs. Our profitability profile, as measured by return on assets and on tangible common equity, remained top decile against our peers. Lastly, our capital position has rebuilt quickly with CET1 over 11%, and we grew tangible book value per share over 17% annualized. On slide 7, you can see our quarterly balance sheet trends, highlighting our strong liquidity and capital.
Excluding $0.07 of merger-related expenses, Bremer pension plan termination charges, and the reduction in our FDIC special assessment accrual, adjusted earnings per share were $0.62, a 5% increase over the prior quarter and a 27% increase year over year. Results were driven by stable margin, better-than-expected growth in fee income, and well-controlled expenses. Importantly, credit improved with an 8% reduction in total criticized and classified loans, and low levels of non-PCD charge-offs. Our profitability profile, as measured by return on assets and on tangible common equity, remained top decile against our peers. Lastly, our capital position has rebuilt quickly with CET1 over 11%, and we grew tangible book value per share over 17% annualized. On slide 7, you can see our quarterly balance sheet trends, highlighting our strong liquidity and capital.
Speaker #2: Bremer Pension Plan termination charges and the reduction in FDIC special assessment accrual, adjusted earnings per share were $0.62, a 5% increase over the prior quarter and a 27% increase year over year.
Speaker #2: Results were driven by stable margin , better than expected growth in fee income , and well controlled expenses . Importantly , credit improved with an 8% reduction in total .
Speaker #2: Criticized and classified loans and low levels of non charge offs . Our profitability profile , as measured by return on assets and on tangible common equity , remain top decile against our peers .
Speaker #2: Lastly , our capital position has rebuilt quickly with Cet1 over 11% and we grew tangible book value per share over 17% annualized on seven , you can see our slide quarterly balance sheet trends highlighting our strong liquidity and capital , our deposit growth over the last year has continued to keep pace with asset growth , and the loan to deposit ratio is now 89% .
Jim Ryan: Our deposit growth over the last year has continued to keep pace with asset growth, and the loan-to-deposit ratio is now 89%. We grew tangible book value per share by 4% from Q3 and 15% over the last year, even with the impact of the Bremer close and absorbing approximately $140 million of merger charges year-to-date while repurchasing 2.2 million shares since we restarted the buyback in Q3 of 2025. These liquidity and capital levels continue to provide a strong foundation as we head into 2026. On slide 8, we show trends in earning assets. Total loans grew 6.4% annualized from last quarter. Production was up 25% and was strong throughout our commercial book. Despite strong production, our pipeline is up nearly 15% from the prior quarter. Higher production levels were again partly offset by strategic portfolio management, as evidenced by our lower criticized and classified levels due to payoffs.
Our deposit growth over the last year has continued to keep pace with asset growth, and the loan-to-deposit ratio is now 89%. We grew tangible book value per share by 4% from Q3 and 15% over the last year, even with the impact of the Bremer close and absorbing approximately $140 million of merger charges year-to-date while repurchasing 2.2 million shares since we restarted the buyback in Q3 of 2025. These liquidity and capital levels continue to provide a strong foundation as we head into 2026. On slide 8, we show trends in earning assets. Total loans grew 6.4% annualized from last quarter. Production was up 25% and was strong throughout our commercial book. Despite strong production, our pipeline is up nearly 15% from the prior quarter. Higher production levels were again partly offset by strategic portfolio management, as evidenced by our lower criticized and classified levels due to payoffs.
Speaker #2: We grew tangible book value per share by 4% from three Q and 15% over the last year . Even with the impact of the Bremer Close and absorbing approximately $140 million of merger charges year to date , while repurchasing 2.2 million shares .
Speaker #2: We restarted the since buyback in the third quarter of 2025. These liquidity and capital levels continue to strongly provide a foundation as we head into 2026.
Speaker #2: On slide eight , we show trends in earning assets . Total loans grew 6.4% annualized from last quarter . Production up was 25% and was strong throughout our commercial book .
Speaker #2: Despite strong production . Our pipeline is up nearly 15% from the prior quarter . Higher production again levels were partly offset by strategic portfolio management , as evidenced by our lower criticized and classified levels due to payoffs .
Jim Ryan: The investment portfolio was essentially unchanged from the prior quarter, with portfolio purchases offset by changes in fair values. We expect approximately $2.9 billion in cash flow over the next 12 months. Today, new money yields are running about 94 basis points above backbook yields on securities. The repricing dynamics for both loans and securities combined with loan growth continue to support stable-to-improving net interest income and net interest margin over the course of 2026, with the first quarter impacted by two fewer days. Moving to slide 9, we show trends in deposits. Total deposits increased 0.6% annualized, and core deposits ex-brokered decreased about 3% annualized, primarily driven by seasonally lower public funds balances. Non-interest-bearing deposits grew to 26% of core deposits from 24% in the prior quarter. Our use of brokered deposits increased in alignment with the aforementioned public funds seasonality.
The investment portfolio was essentially unchanged from the prior quarter, with portfolio purchases offset by changes in fair values. We expect approximately $2.9 billion in cash flow over the next 12 months. Today, new money yields are running about 94 basis points above backbook yields on securities. The repricing dynamics for both loans and securities combined with loan growth continue to support stable-to-improving net interest income and net interest margin over the course of 2026, with the first quarter impacted by two fewer days. Moving to slide 9, we show trends in deposits. Total deposits increased 0.6% annualized, and core deposits ex-brokered decreased about 3% annualized, primarily driven by seasonally lower public funds balances. Non-interest-bearing deposits grew to 26% of core deposits from 24% in the prior quarter. Our use of brokered deposits increased in alignment with the aforementioned public funds seasonality.
Speaker #2: The investment portfolio was essentially unchanged from the prior quarter , with portfolio purchases offset by changes in fair values . We expect approximately $2.9 billion in cash flow over the next 12 months .
Speaker #2: Today , new money yields are running about 94 basis points above back book yields on securities . The repricing dynamics for both loans and securities , combined with loan growth , support continued to stable to improving net interest income and net interest margin over the course of 2026 .
Speaker #2: With the first quarter impacted by two fewer days . Moving to slide nine , we show trends in deposits , total deposits increased 0.6% annualized in core deposits ex brokered decreased about 3% annualized , primarily driven by seasonally lower public funds balances .
Speaker #2: Noninterest-bearing deposits grew to 26% of core deposits, from 24% in the prior quarter. Our use of brokered deposits increased in alignment with the aforementioned public funds seasonality.
Jim Ryan: Even with that increase, our brokered levels remain below peer levels at 6.7% of total deposits. The 17 basis points linked-quarter decrease in our cost of total deposits played out as we expected with Fed cuts and our offensive posture with respect to client acquisition. We achieved an approximate 87% beta on rates in our exception price book in conjunction with the Fed cuts in the quarter. These actions resulted in a spot rate of 1.68% on total deposits at 31 December. Overall, we remain confident in the execution of our deposit strategy, and we are prepared to proactively respond to the evolving rate environment. Slide 10 shows our quarterly income statement trends. As I mentioned earlier, adjusted earnings per share were $0.62 for the quarter, with all key line items in line or better than our prior guidance.
Even with that increase, our brokered levels remain below peer levels at 6.7% of total deposits. The 17 basis points linked-quarter decrease in our cost of total deposits played out as we expected with Fed cuts and our offensive posture with respect to client acquisition. We achieved an approximate 87% beta on rates in our exception price book in conjunction with the Fed cuts in the quarter. These actions resulted in a spot rate of 1.68% on total deposits at 31 December. Overall, we remain confident in the execution of our deposit strategy, and we are prepared to proactively respond to the evolving rate environment. Slide 10 shows our quarterly income statement trends. As I mentioned earlier, adjusted earnings per share were $0.62 for the quarter, with all key line items in line or better than our prior guidance.
Speaker #2: Even with that increase , our brokered remain below peer levels at 6.7% of total deposits , the 17 basis point linked quarter decrease in our cost of total deposits played out as we expected , with fed cuts and our offensive posture with respect to client acquisition , we achieved an approximate 87% beta on rates .
Speaker #2: In our exception price book in conjunction with the fed cuts in the resulted quarter actions . These in a spot rate of 1.68% on total deposits .
Speaker #2: At December 31st. Overall, we remain confident in the execution of our deposit strategy, and we are prepared to proactively respond to the evolving rate environment.
Speaker #2: Slide ten shows our quarterly income statement trends. As I mentioned earlier, adjusted earnings per share were $0.62 for the quarter, with all key line items in line or better than our prior guidance.
Jim Ryan: Moving on to slide 11, we present details of our net interest income and margin, both of which increased as we had expected and guided. Modest margin expansion was supported by deposit repricing. Slide 12 shows trends in adjusted non-interest income, which was $126 million for the quarter, exceeding our guidance. While most of our fee businesses performed in line with our expectations, we again saw better-than-expected performance within mortgage and capital markets. In both cases, this was driven by a somewhat more favorable rate backdrop for these businesses. Continuing to slide 13, we show the trend in adjusted non-interest expenses of $365 million for the quarter. Run rate expenses remained well controlled, and we generated positive operating leverage on an adjusted basis year-over-year with a record low 46% adjusted efficiency ratio.
Moving on to slide 11, we present details of our net interest income and margin, both of which increased as we had expected and guided. Modest margin expansion was supported by deposit repricing. Slide 12 shows trends in adjusted non-interest income, which was $126 million for the quarter, exceeding our guidance. While most of our fee businesses performed in line with our expectations, we again saw better-than-expected performance within mortgage and capital markets. In both cases, this was driven by a somewhat more favorable rate backdrop for these businesses. Continuing to slide 13, we show the trend in adjusted non-interest expenses of $365 million for the quarter. Run rate expenses remained well controlled, and we generated positive operating leverage on an adjusted basis year-over-year with a record low 46% adjusted efficiency ratio.
Speaker #2: Moving on to slide 11, we present details of our net interest income and margin, both of which increased as we had expected and guided—modest margin.
Speaker #2: Expansion was supported by deposit repricing . Slide 12 shows trends in adjusted non-interest income , which was $126 million for the quarter , exceeding guidance our .
Speaker #2: While most of our fee businesses performed in line with our expectations, we again saw better than expected performance within mortgage and capital markets.
Speaker #2: In both cases , this was driven by a somewhat more favorable rate backdrop for these businesses continuing to slide 13 , we show the trend adjusted non-interest expenses of $365 million for the quarter run rate expenses remained well controlled , and we generated positive operating leverage on an adjusted basis year over year with a record Adjusted low 46% .
Jim Ryan: We realized approximately 28% of the anticipated Bremer cost saves in the Q4, and as a reminder, the saves from Bremer are expected to be fully realized in the first quarter. This is reflected in our 2026 guidance, which I'll get to in a few slides. On slide 14, we present our credit trends. Total net charge-offs were 27 basis points and were 16 basis points excluding charge-offs on PCD loans. Criticized and classified loans decreased $278 million, or approximately 8%, and non-accrual loans decreased $70 million, or approximately 12%. This improvement is reflective of the continued focus on active portfolio management. Notably, in our commercial real estate portfolios, we saw upgrades and payoffs exceed downgrades by a 2:1 ratio.
We realized approximately 28% of the anticipated Bremer cost saves in the Q4, and as a reminder, the saves from Bremer are expected to be fully realized in the first quarter. This is reflected in our 2026 guidance, which I'll get to in a few slides. On slide 14, we present our credit trends. Total net charge-offs were 27 basis points and were 16 basis points excluding charge-offs on PCD loans. Criticized and classified loans decreased $278 million, or approximately 8%, and non-accrual loans decreased $70 million, or approximately 12%. This improvement is reflective of the continued focus on active portfolio management. Notably, in our commercial real estate portfolios, we saw upgrades and payoffs exceed downgrades by a 2:1 ratio.
Speaker #2: Efficiency ratio. We realized approximately 28% of the anticipated cost savings in the fourth quarter, and as a reminder, the savings from Bremer are expected to be fully realized in the first quarter.
Speaker #2: This is reflected in our 2020 guidance , which I'll get to in a few slides on slide 14 , we present our credit trends total net charge offs were 27 basis points and were 16 basis points , excluding charge offs on PKD loans criticized and classified loans decreased $278 million , or approximately 8% , in Non-accrual loans decreased $70 million , or approximately 12% .
Speaker #2: This improvement is reflective of the continued focus on active management within our portfolio, notably in our commercial real estate portfolios. We saw upgrades and payoffs exceed downgrades by a 2-to-1 ratio.
Jim Ryan: The Q4 allowance for credit losses to total loans, including the reserve for unfunded commitments, was 124 basis points, down 2 basis points from the prior quarter, primarily driven by the decrease in criticized and classified loans. Consistent with Q3, our qualitative reserves incorporate a 100% weighting on the Moody's S2 scenario with additional qualitative factors to capture global economic uncertainty. Lastly, given the increased focus on loans to non-depository financial institutions, we'd like to emphasize, as we did last quarter, that our exposure is de minimis. Slide 15 presents key credit metrics relative to peers. As discussed in past calls, we have historically experienced a lower conversion rate of NPLs to NCOs as compared to our peers, driven by our approach to credit and client selection. That continues to be the case, and we remain comfortable around the credit outlook.
The Q4 allowance for credit losses to total loans, including the reserve for unfunded commitments, was 124 basis points, down 2 basis points from the prior quarter, primarily driven by the decrease in criticized and classified loans. Consistent with Q3, our qualitative reserves incorporate a 100% weighting on the Moody's S2 scenario with additional qualitative factors to capture global economic uncertainty. Lastly, given the increased focus on loans to non-depository financial institutions, we'd like to emphasize, as we did last quarter, that our exposure is de minimis. Slide 15 presents key credit metrics relative to peers. As discussed in past calls, we have historically experienced a lower conversion rate of NPLs to NCOs as compared to our peers, driven by our approach to credit and client selection. That continues to be the case, and we remain comfortable around the credit outlook.
Speaker #2: The fourth quarter allowance for credit losses to total loans, including the reserve for unfunded commitments, was 124 basis points, down two basis points from the prior quarter, primarily driven by the decrease in criticized and classified loans consistent with the third quarter.
Speaker #2: Our qualitative reserves incorporate a 100% weighting on the Moody's S2 scenario , with additional qualitative factors to capture global economic uncertainty . Lastly , given the increased focus on loans to Non-depository financial institutions , we'd like to emphasize , as we did last quarter , that our exposure is de minimis .
Speaker #2: Slide 15 presents key credit metrics relative to peers, as discussed in past calls. We have historically experienced a lower conversion rate of NPLs to NCOs as compared to our peers, driven by our approach to credit and client selection.
Jim Ryan: On slide 16, we review our capital position at the end of the quarter. All regulatory ratios increased linked quarter due to strong retained earnings, partly offset by robust quarterly loan growth and Bremer merger-related charges. On the GAAP capital front, TCE was up about 20 basis points, and tangible book value per share was up 4% linked quarter and 15% year-over-year. We expect AOCI to improve approximately 11%, or $55 million by year-end. Our strong profitability profile continues to generate significant capital, which opened the door for capital return earlier this year. As previously mentioned, late in the quarter, we repurchased an additional 1.1 million shares of common stock, taking our total to 2.2 million shares for the year. We don't view growing capital and returning capital as mutually exclusive in 2026. Slide 17 includes updated details on our rate risk position and net interest income guidance.
On slide 16, we review our capital position at the end of the quarter. All regulatory ratios increased linked quarter due to strong retained earnings, partly offset by robust quarterly loan growth and Bremer merger-related charges. On the GAAP capital front, TCE was up about 20 basis points, and tangible book value per share was up 4% linked quarter and 15% year-over-year. We expect AOCI to improve approximately 11%, or $55 million by year-end. Our strong profitability profile continues to generate significant capital, which opened the door for capital return earlier this year. As previously mentioned, late in the quarter, we repurchased an additional 1.1 million shares of common stock, taking our total to 2.2 million shares for the year. We don't view growing capital and returning capital as mutually exclusive in 2026. Slide 17 includes updated details on our rate risk position and net interest income guidance.
Speaker #2: That continues to be the case , and we remain comfortable around the credit outlook . On slide 16 , we review our position at capital the end of the quarter .
Speaker #2: All regulatory ratios increased linked quarter due to strong retained earnings, partly offset by robust quarterly loan growth. And related Bremer merger charges on the capital. TCE front was up about 20 basis points, and tangible book value per share was up 4%.
Speaker #2: Linked quarter and 15% year over year . We expect Aoci to improve approximately 11% , or $55 million by year end . Our strong profitability profile continues to generate significant capital , which opened the door for capital return earlier this year .
Speaker #2: As previously mentioned , late in the quarter , we repurchased an additional 1.1 million shares of common stock , taking our total to 2.2 million shares for the year .
Speaker #2: We don't view growing capital and returning capital as mutually exclusive in 2026. Slide 17 includes updated details on our rate, risk, position, and interest net income guidance.
Jim Ryan: NII is expected to increase with the benefit of fixed asset repricing and continued growth. Our assumptions are listed on the slide, but as we do each quarter, we would highlight a few of the primary drivers. First, we assume two additional rate cuts of 25 basis points each in 2026, which aligns with the current forward curve. Second, we assume the five-year treasury rate at 375 basis points. Third, we anticipate our total down rate deposit beta to be approximately 40%, which is in line with our terminal up rate betas and our Q4 experience. Fourth, we expect non-interest-bearing deposits to remain relatively stable. Importantly, our balance sheet remains neutrally positioned to short-term interest rates.
NII is expected to increase with the benefit of fixed asset repricing and continued growth. Our assumptions are listed on the slide, but as we do each quarter, we would highlight a few of the primary drivers. First, we assume two additional rate cuts of 25 basis points each in 2026, which aligns with the current forward curve. Second, we assume the five-year treasury rate at 375 basis points. Third, we anticipate our total down rate deposit beta to be approximately 40%, which is in line with our terminal up rate betas and our Q4 experience. Fourth, we expect non-interest-bearing deposits to remain relatively stable. Importantly, our balance sheet remains neutrally positioned to short-term interest rates.
Speaker #2: NII is expected to increase with the benefit of fixed asset repricing and continued growth. Our assumptions are listed on the slide, but as we do each quarter, we would highlight a few of the primary drivers.
Speaker #2: First , we assume two additional rate cuts of 25 basis points each in 2026 , which aligns with the current forward curve . Second , we assume the five year Treasury rate at 375 basis points .
Speaker #2: Third , we anticipate our total down rate deposit beta to be approximately 40% , which is in line with our terminal update betas and our four Q experience .
Speaker #2: And fourth , we expect noninterest bearing remain relatively deposits to stable . Importantly , our balance remains sheet neutrally positioned to short term interest rates .
Jim Ryan: As such, the path of NIM and NII in 2026 will depend on growth dynamics and the shape of the yield curve, the absolute level of the belly of the curve, and continued deposit beta management more than the absolute level of short-term rates. Slide 18 includes our outlook for the first quarter and full year 2026. We believe our current pipeline supports Q1 growth of 3% to 5% and full-year loan growth of 4% to 6%. We anticipate continued success in the execution of our deposit strategy and expect to meet or exceed industry growth in 2026, and generally in line with our asset growth. We expect fee income to remain strong given a supportive rate backdrop for mortgage and capital markets, as well as continued progress in wealth management and brokerage.
As such, the path of NIM and NII in 2026 will depend on growth dynamics and the shape of the yield curve, the absolute level of the belly of the curve, and continued deposit beta management more than the absolute level of short-term rates. Slide 18 includes our outlook for the first quarter and full year 2026. We believe our current pipeline supports Q1 growth of 3% to 5% and full-year loan growth of 4% to 6%. We anticipate continued success in the execution of our deposit strategy and expect to meet or exceed industry growth in 2026, and generally in line with our asset growth. We expect fee income to remain strong given a supportive rate backdrop for mortgage and capital markets, as well as continued progress in wealth management and brokerage.
Speaker #2: As such , the path of Nim and NII in 2026 will depend on growth dynamics in the shape of the yield curve . The absolute level of the belly of the curve , and continued deposit beta management more than the absolute level of short term rates .
Speaker #2: Slide 18 includes our outlook for the first quarter and full year 2026. We believe our current pipeline supports Q1 growth of 3 to 5% and full-year loan growth of 4 to 6%.
Speaker #2: We anticipate continued success in the execution of our deposit strategy and expect to meet or exceed industry growth in 2026 , and generally in line with our asset growth , we expect fee income to remain strong given a supportive rate backdrop for and mortgage capital markets , as well as continued progress in wealth management and brokerage expense guidance incorporates a full quarter run rate on Bremer cost savings and typical seasonal factors .
Jim Ryan: Expense guidance incorporates a full quarter run rate on Bremer cost savings and typical seasonal factors in Q1. Other key line items are highlighted on the slide. You'll note that we expect full-year results that yield significant growth in earnings per share and again feature positive operating leverage with a peer-leading return profile, good growth in fees, controlled expenses, and normalized credit. In summary, echoing Jim's opening comments, 2025 was exceptionally strong. We completed the core systems conversion and integration associated with our Bremer partnership. That partnership created a leading bank franchise in Minnesota and added valuable funding with good market share in several markets in North Dakota. We compounded tangible book value per share despite closing that deal and advanced our peer-leading return on tangible common equity and efficiency. We funded our loan growth with deposit growth while improving our already resilient credit metrics.
Expense guidance incorporates a full quarter run rate on Bremer cost savings and typical seasonal factors in Q1. Other key line items are highlighted on the slide. You'll note that we expect full-year results that yield significant growth in earnings per share and again feature positive operating leverage with a peer-leading return profile, good growth in fees, controlled expenses, and normalized credit. In summary, echoing Jim's opening comments, 2025 was exceptionally strong. We completed the core systems conversion and integration associated with our Bremer partnership. That partnership created a leading bank franchise in Minnesota and added valuable funding with good market share in several markets in North Dakota. We compounded tangible book value per share despite closing that deal and advanced our peer-leading return on tangible common equity and efficiency. We funded our loan growth with deposit growth while improving our already resilient credit metrics.
Speaker #2: In the first quarter . line Other key items are highlighted on the slide . You'll note that we expect full year results that yield significant growth in earnings per share , and again , feature positive operating leverage with a peer leading return profile .
Speaker #2: Good growth in fees , controlled expenses and normalized credit . In summary , echoing Jim's opening comments , 2025 was exceptionally strong . We completed the core systems conversion and integration associated with our Bremer partnership that partnership created a leading bank franchise Minnesota and added valuable funding with good market share in several markets in North Dakota .
Speaker #2: We compounded tangible book value per share despite closing that deal and advanced our peer return leading on tangible common equity and efficiency . And we funded our loan growth with deposit growth while improving our already resilient credit metrics .
Jim Ryan: In 2026, we remain focused on organic growth and returning capital shareholders, investing in ourselves to drive excellence in talent, operations, sales execution, and client-facing capabilities. This will ensure that we will remain strong, scalable, and positioned for long-term success. With those comments, I'd like to open the call for your questions. Thank you. We will now begin the question and answer session. If you would like to ask a question, please press star one in your telephone keypad. If you would like to withdraw your question, simply press star one again. Your first question today comes from the line of Scott Cyphers from Piper Sandler. Your line is open. Good morning, Scott. Thanks for—hey, thank you for taking the questions. Let's see. I guess, John, maybe first question for you was hoping you could maybe help with how you see the margin projecting through the year.
In 2026, we remain focused on organic growth and returning capital shareholders, investing in ourselves to drive excellence in talent, operations, sales execution, and client-facing capabilities. This will ensure that we will remain strong, scalable, and positioned for long-term success. With those comments, I'd like to open the call for your questions.
Speaker #2: In 2026 , we remain focused on organic growth and returning capital to shareholders , investing in ourselves to drive excellence in talent operations , sales , execution and client facing capabilities .
Operator: Thank you. We will now begin the question and answer session. If you would like to ask a question, please press star one in your telephone keypad. If you would like to withdraw your question, simply press star one again. Your first question today comes from the line of Scott Cyphers from Piper Sandler. Your line is open.
Speaker #2: This will ensure that we will remain strong , scalable and positioned for long term success . With those comments , I'd like to open the call for your questions .
Speaker #1: Thank you . We will now begin the question and answer session . If you would like to ask a question , please press star one on your telephone keypad .
Speaker #1: If you would like to withdraw your question , simply press star one again . Your first question today comes from the line of Scott Siefers Piper Sandler .
Jim Ryan: Good morning, Scott.
Scott Seifers: Thanks for—hey, thank you for taking the questions. Let's see. I guess, John, maybe first question for you was hoping you could maybe help with how you see the margin projecting through the year. Just notice on the sort of the NII walk on slide 17, you've got a much bigger step up in NII in the second half versus what we should see here in the next couple of quarters. Is that a function of sort of timing of asset repricing or your expectation for rate cuts? Just curious as to the nuance in there.
Speaker #1: Your line is open .
Speaker #3: Good Thanks
Speaker #3: morning Scott .
Speaker #4: . for Hey , thank you for taking the questions . Let's see . I guess , John , maybe first question for you was hoping you could maybe help with how you see the the margin trajectory through the year .
Jim Ryan: Just notice on the sort of the NII walk on slide 17, you've got a much bigger step up in NII in the second half versus what we should see here in the next couple of quarters. Is that a function of sort of timing of asset repricing or your expectation for rate cuts? Just curious as to the nuance in there. I think the bigger factor there, Scott, is actually day count, right? So just remember the first two quarters of next year, we got a couple less days in each of those quarters. I think when we think about the trajectory of margin in 2026, it's really four big factors on that. I think growth is number one, so we're sort of guiding 4% to 6% on that side. The second would be steepness of the curve and how that plays out.
Speaker #4: Just notice on the sort of the NII walk on slide 17. You've got a much bigger step-up in NII in the second half versus what we should see here in the next couple of quarters.
John Moran: I think the bigger factor there, Scott, is actually day count, right? So just remember the first two quarters of next year, we got a couple less days in each of those quarters. I think when we think about the trajectory of margin in 2026, it's really four big factors on that. I think growth is number one, so we're sort of guiding 4% to 6% on that side. The second would be steepness of the curve and how that plays out.
Speaker #4: Is that a function of, sort of, timing asset repricing or your expectation for rate cuts? Just curious as to the nuance in there.
Speaker #5: Yeah , I think I think the bigger factor there , Scott , is actually day count . Right . So just remember the first two quarters of next year we got we got a couple less days in each of those quarters .
Speaker #5: You know, I think when we think about the trajectory of margin in 2026, it's really four big factors on that.
Speaker #5: I think its growth is number one. So, we're sort of guiding 4% to 6% on that side. The second would be steepness of the curve.
Jim Ryan: So knock on wood, the forwards actually come true. Number three would be belly of curve on fixed asset repricing. And then number four would be our continued ability to manage beta on the downside, which so far has gone really, really well. And so I think those are the big swings on the margin. Okay. Perfect. Perfect. And then great to see the strong kind of end to the year just in terms of proactiveness of capital management. Maybe just sort of thoughts on pace of share repurchase throughout the year vis-à-vis the 1.1 million that you did in kind of late in the fourth quarter. Yeah, Scott, I would say this year we plan to be more active than we were last year. We obviously want to make sure we have enough capital to support growth.
So knock on wood, the forwards actually come true. Number three would be belly of curve on fixed asset repricing. And then number four would be our continued ability to manage beta on the downside, which so far has gone really, really well. And so I think those are the big swings on the margin.
Speaker #5: And how that plays out . So knock on wood the forward's actually come true . Number three would be belly of curve on fixed asset repricing .
Speaker #5: And then number four would be our our continued ability to manage beta on the on the downside , which so far has gone really , really well .
Scott Seifers: Okay. Perfect. Perfect. And then great to see the strong kind of end to the year just in terms of proactiveness of capital management. Maybe just sort of thoughts on pace of share repurchase throughout the year vis-à-vis the 1.1 million that you did in kind of late in the fourth quarter.
Speaker #5: And so, I think those are the big swings on the margin.
Speaker #4: Okay . Perfect perfect . And then great to see the the strong kind of end to the year . Just in terms of proactiveness of capital management , maybe just sort of thoughts on pace of share repurchase throughout the year vis a vis the 1.1 million that you did in the kind of late in the fourth quarter ?
Jim Ryan: Yeah, Scott, I would say this year we plan to be more active than we were last year. We obviously want to make sure we have enough capital to support growth. And then I think our next priority is making sure that we return it back to our shareholders. So we're going to see how the year plays out a little bit, but it would be a definitely more active year in 2026 versus last.
Speaker #3: Yeah , Scott , I would say this year we plan to be more active than we were last year . You know , we obviously want to make sure we have enough capital to support growth .
Jim Ryan: And then I think our next priority is making sure that we return it back to our shareholders. So we're going to see how the year plays out a little bit, but it would be a definitely more active year in 2026 versus last. Gotcha. Perfect. All right. Thank you guys very much. Appreciate it. Thanks for the call, Scott. Your next question comes from the line of Brendan Nosal from Hovde Group. Your line is open. Hey, good morning, folks. Hope you're doing well. Good morning, Brendan. Maybe just to circle back to the margin, John. Totally get your comments on day count.
Speaker #3: And then I think our next priority is making sure that we return it back to our shareholders. So we're going to see how the year plays out a little bit.
Scott Seifers: Gotcha. Perfect. All right. Thank you guys very much. Appreciate it.
Speaker #3: But it would be a definitely a more active year in 2026 versus versus last .
Jim Ryan: Thanks for the call, Scott.
Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Brendan Nosal from Hovde Group. Your line is open.
Speaker #4: Gotcha . Perfect . All right . Thank you guys very much . Appreciate it .
Brendan Nosal: Hey, good morning, folks. Hope you're doing well.
Speaker #3: Thanks for the call Scott .
Jim Ryan: Good morning, Brendan.
Speaker #1: next Your question comes from the line of Brendan Nozzle from hole Group . Your line is open .
Brendan Nosal: Maybe just to circle back to the margin, John. Totally get your comments on day count. I mean, if we strip out day count factors from margin, because I think you guys use a simple multiply by four to get to your margin presentation, is it fair to say that a day count adjusted margin is stable, if not a bit grinding higher as we move through the year?
Speaker #6: Hey, good morning, folks. Hope you're doing well.
Jim Ryan: I mean, if we strip out day count factors from margin, because I think you guys use a simple multiply by four to get to your margin presentation, is it fair to say that a day count adjusted margin is stable, if not a bit grinding higher as we move through the year? Very fair. I think you captured it. Okay. Okay. Then maybe moving to the credit side of things. I think if I interpolate the kind of the various pieces on the guide for loan growth, charge-offs, and provision, I think it implies a bit of a reduction in your reserve coverage ratio versus loans. So I guess just what are you seeing either in your own portfolio or the macro inputs that would let you slightly underprovide for both growth plus loss content?
Speaker #3: Good morning Brendan .
Speaker #6: Maybe just to circle back to the margin . You know , John , totally get your comments on day count . I mean , if we strip out day factors count from margin because I think you guys use a simple multiply by four to get to your margin presentation , is it fair to say that , like a day count , adjusted margin is stable , if not a bit grinding higher as we move through the year ?
Jim Ryan: Very fair. I think you captured it.
Brendan Nosal: Okay. Okay. Then maybe moving to the credit side of things. I think if I interpolate the kind of the various pieces on the guide for loan growth, charge-offs, and provision, I think it implies a bit of a reduction in your reserve coverage ratio versus loans. So I guess just what are you seeing either in your own portfolio or the macro inputs that would let you slightly underprovide for both growth plus loss content?
Speaker #5: Very fair. I think you captured it.
Speaker #6: Okay , okay then maybe moving to the credit side of things . I think if I interpolate the kind of the the various pieces on the guide for loan growth , charge offs and provision , I think it implies a bit of a reduction in your reserve coverage ratio versus loans .
Speaker #6: So I guess, what are you seeing either in your own portfolio or the macro inputs that would slightly provide for – or under, let you both – growth, plus growth loss content?
Jim Ryan: Yeah, it's really the migration in the criticized and classified book and improvement on those measures. Two or three quarters now of really, really solid improvement there, close to $70 million lower on NPLs in this quarter. And when you've got that kind of fundamental improvement, it's just the model just spits out what it spits out. It kind of math, maths, right? And so clearly, I think we're through the peak in those categories of classification. Okay. Perfect. Thank you for taking the questions. Your next question comes from the line of Jared Shaw from Barclays. Your line is open. Hey, good morning. Good morning, Jared. Just circling back on the capital and hearing what you're saying about the buyback, how should we think about sort of a good core target CET1 for you as we move through 2026 with sort of all those assumptions behind it? Yeah.
Jim Ryan: Yeah, it's really the migration in the criticized and classified book and improvement on those measures. Two or three quarters now of really, really solid improvement there, close to $70 million lower on NPLs in this quarter. And when you've got that kind of fundamental improvement, it's just the model just spits out what it spits out. It kind of math, maths, right? And so clearly, I think we're through the peak in those categories of classification.
Speaker #5: Yeah , it's in the migration criticizing classified book . And improvement . Those measures you know 2 or 3 now quarters of really really solid improvement .
Speaker #5: There close to 70 million bucks lower on NPLs in this quarter . And when you've got that kind of fundamental improvement , it's just , you know , the model just spits out what it spits out .
Speaker #5: It kind of math . Math , math . Right . And so you know , clearly I think we're we're through the peak in in that in those in those categories of classification okay .
Brendan Nosal: Okay. Perfect. Thank you for taking the questions.
Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Jared Shaw from Barclays. Your line is open.
Speaker #6: Perfect. Thank you for taking the questions.
Jared Shaw: Hey, good morning.
Jim Ryan: Good morning, Jared.
Speaker #1: Your next question comes from the line of Jared Shore from Barclays . Your line is open .
Jared Shaw: Just circling back on the capital and hearing what you're saying about the buyback, how should we think about sort of a good core target CET1 for you as we move through 2026 with sort of all those assumptions behind it?
Speaker #7: Hey, good morning. Good morning. Just circling back on the capital, and hearing what you're saying about the, should we buy back.
Speaker #7: How think about sort of a good core target Cet1 for you as we move through 26 with with sort of all those assumptions behind it ?
John Moran: Yeah. Yeah, Jared, very comfortable with where we are on CET1 today. And Jim said it well. First priority is, I'm sure, the growth power for organic growth, right? But left unchecked, this is going to grow quickly, arguably too quickly, and we're not going to let it go unchecked.
Jim Ryan: Yeah, Jared, very comfortable with where we are on CET1 today. And Jim said it well. First priority is, I'm sure, the growth power for organic growth, right? But left unchecked, this is going to grow quickly, arguably too quickly, and we're not going to let it go unchecked. But not a—we shouldn't assume that you're trying to target back down to like a 10.5% from where we are right now. No, I don't think so. Not at this time. And again, I think we said we don't view it as mutually exclusive to grow a little bit of capital and return capital in 2026. Okay. And then I guess shifting to deposits, you had really good growth in DDA on average and end of period, but then you call out sort of a relatively stable balance for 2026. How should we think about sort of seasonality?
Speaker #3: Yeah , yeah .
Speaker #5: Very Jared . comfortable with where we are on today Cet1 . You know , and Jim said it well , you know , first first priority is ensuring got powder for organic growth right .
Jared Shaw: But not a—we shouldn't assume that you're trying to target back down to like a 10.5% from where we are right now.
Speaker #5: But left unchecked this is going to grow quickly arguably too quickly . And we're not going to let it go unchecked .
John Moran: No, I don't think so. Not at this time. And again, I think we said we don't view it as mutually exclusive to grow a little bit of capital and return capital in 2026.
Speaker #7: But not a—we shouldn't assume that you're trying to target back down to, like, a 10.5% from where we are right now.
Speaker #5: No , I don't think . I don't think so . Not at this again , I And think we said we don't view it as mutually exclusive to grow a little bit of capital and return capital in 2026 .
Jared Shaw: Okay. And then I guess shifting to deposits, you had really good growth in DDA on average and end of period, but then you call out sort of a relatively stable balance for 2026. How should we think about sort of seasonality? And is that stable as a percentage of deposits, or is that stable as sort of dollars of deposits from here?
Speaker #7: Okay . And then I guess shifting to deposits , you had really good growth in DDA on on average . And end of period .
Jim Ryan: And is that stable as a percentage of deposits, or is that stable as sort of dollars of deposits from here? Yeah, I'm thinking that it's stable as a percentage. We've got some seasonality, obviously, in the public funds book, but other than that, nothing to really talk about on the deposit side in terms of seasonality. Great. Thank you. Your next question comes from the line of Ben Gerlinger from Citi. Your line is open. Hey, good morning. Good morning, Ben. I'm wondering if you could talk to the growth a little bit. I know that some of your larger competitors in the area have acquisitions pending, and maybe they're taking their eye off the ball or different markets, or is it just hiring or potentially just kind of deepening relationships with kind of the new Bremer customers?
Speaker #7: But then you call out relatively stable balance sort of a for 26 . How should we think about sort of ? And seasonality is that stable as a percentage of deposits , or is that stable as sort of dollars of deposits from here ?
John Moran: Yeah, I'm thinking that it's stable as a percentage. We've got some seasonality, obviously, in the public funds book, but other than that, nothing to really talk about on the deposit side in terms of seasonality.
Speaker #5: Yeah , I'm thinking that it's stable as a as a percentage . We've got some seasonality , obviously , in the public but other funds book , than that , nothing to really talk about on the on the deposit side in terms of seasonality .
Jared Shaw: Great. Thank you.
Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Ben Gerlinger from Citi. Your line is open.
Ben Gerlinger: Hey, good morning.
Speaker #7: Great . Thank you .
Jim Ryan: Good morning, Ben.
Speaker #1: Your next question comes from the line of Ben Gerlinger from Citi. Your line is open.
Ben Gerlinger: I'm wondering if you could talk to the growth a little bit. I know that some of your larger competitors in the area have acquisitions pending, and maybe they're taking their eye off the ball or different markets, or is it just hiring or potentially just kind of deepening relationships with kind of the new Bremer customers? I'm just kind of curious where's the growth coming from, like existing or new areas? Just kind of unpack that a little bit would be helpful.
Speaker #8: Hey good morning .
Speaker #3: Good morning Ben .
Speaker #8: I was wondering if you could talk to the growth a little bit . I know that some of your larger competitors in the area have acquisitions pending , and maybe they're taking your eye off the ball or different markets , or is it just hiring or potentially just kind of deepening relationships with kind of the new Bremer customers ?
Jim Ryan: I'm just kind of curious where's the growth coming from, like existing or new areas? Just kind of unpack that a little bit would be helpful. Sure. Good morning, Ben. This is Tim. We're seeing broad-based growth from the C&I middle markets standpoint. We're also seeing enhancements from CRE demand drivers. And we're going to continue to be opportunistic and aggressive from a talent perspective. So we think as the year unfolds and we continue to add talent that will also help drive. Consumer sentiment is showing that demand is growing. Gotcha. That's helpful. And then if you could think about just kind of the pricing of that, is there any areas where it's become a little bit more overly competitive or any geographies where it's just like you're not getting the ROI adjusted, too, rather not play?
Timothy Burke: Sure. Good morning, Ben. This is Tim. We're seeing broad-based growth from the C&I middle markets standpoint. We're also seeing enhancements from CRE demand drivers. And we're going to continue to be opportunistic and aggressive from a talent perspective. So we think as the year unfolds and we continue to add talent that will also help drive. Consumer sentiment is showing that demand is growing.
Speaker #8: Just kind of curious, where's the growth coming from? Like, existing or new areas? Just kind of unpack that a little bit would be helpful.
Speaker #9: Sure . Good morning . Ben , this is Tim . You seeing know , we're broad based growth from the CNI markets standpoint .
Speaker #9: We're also seeing enhancements from CRE demand drivers. And we're going to continue to be opportunistic and aggressive from a talent perspective. So we think as the year unfolds and we continue to add talent, that will also help drive consumer sentiment, which is showing that demand is growing.
Ben Gerlinger: Gotcha. That's helpful. And then if you could think about just kind of the pricing of that, is there any areas where it's become a little bit more overly competitive or any geographies where it's just like you're not getting the ROI adjusted, too, rather not play? Or I mean, it's always competitive, so I'm just kind of layering that in. Any thoughts on just pricing within loan categories or geographies?
Speaker #8: Gotcha . That's helpful . And then you can think about just kind of the pricing of that . Is there any areas where it's become a little bit more overly competitive or any geographies where it's just like you're not Rossi adjusted .
Jim Ryan: Or I mean, it's always competitive, so I'm just kind of layering that in. Any thoughts on just pricing within loan categories or geographies? Yeah. We continue to be very disciplined in our pricing model. Obviously, where you see disruption, I think there is opportunity as banks are playing defense with the disruption. But we're being opportunistic in certain high-growth markets, but across the board, very disciplined approach to pricing as we look to grow loans. Got it. Ben, I reiterate the point that Tim made earlier, and we try to highlight that in our remarks. Our plan is to invest heavily in talent. Tim's been on the ground about six months now, got his feet wet, thinking about how do we best organize for success and really get after it.
Speaker #8: So rather not play or I mean , it's always competitive . just kind of So I'm layering that in . Any thoughts on just pricing within the loan categories or geographies
Timothy Burke: Yeah. We continue to be very disciplined in our pricing model. Obviously, where you see disruption, I think there is opportunity as banks are playing defense with the disruption. But we're being opportunistic in certain high-growth markets, but across the board, very disciplined approach to pricing as we look to grow loans.
Speaker #9: You know
Speaker #9: we . Yeah . continue to be very disciplined in our pricing model . You know obviously where you see disruption , I think there is opportunity as banks are playing defense with the disruption .
Speaker #9: But we're being opportunistic in certain high-growth markets. But across the board, a very disciplined approach to pricing as we look to grow loans.
Ben Gerlinger: Got it.
Jim Ryan: Ben, I reiterate the point that Tim made earlier, and we try to highlight that in our remarks. Our plan is to invest heavily in talent. Tim's been on the ground about six months now, got his feet wet, thinking about how do we best organize for success and really get after it. I think this year, I think, will be like some of our past years where we're going to highlight some real growth and talent. And so we're excited about what that might bring for us.
Speaker #3: Got it, Ben. I just want to reiterate the point that Tim made earlier, and we tried to highlight that in our remarks. You know, our plan is to invest heavily in talent.
Speaker #3: You know , Tim's been around , you know , about six months now . Got his feet wet thinking about , you know , how do we how do we best organize for success and really get after it .
Jim Ryan: I think this year, I think, will be like some of our past years where we're going to highlight some real growth and talent. And so we're excited about what that might bring for us. Thank you. Your next question comes from the line of Terry McAvoy from Stephens. Your line is open. Thanks. Good morning, everybody. Hey, maybe start with just a question on fees. If I annualize the fourth quarter, it's kind of at the high end of your 2026 outlook. And I'm wondering, is there a bit of conservatism built into your outlook or maybe mortgage returns to more normal levels? Was hoping to get your thoughts there. Yeah. I think, Terry, there's a little bit of seasonality, obviously, in first quarter on the mortgage line. Mortgage was good last year. I wouldn't say great, but good.
Speaker #3: And I think, you know, I think we'll be like some of our past years, where we're going to highlight some growth and real talent.
Ben Gerlinger: Thank you.
Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Terry McAvoy from Stephens. Your line is open.
Speaker #3: And so we're excited about what that might bring for us.
Terry McEvoy: Thanks. Good morning, everybody. Hey, maybe start with just a question on fees. If I annualize the fourth quarter, it's kind of at the high end of your 2026 outlook. And I'm wondering, is there a bit of conservatism built into your outlook or maybe mortgage returns to more normal levels? Was hoping to get your thoughts there.
Speaker #10: Thank you .
Speaker #1: Your next question comes from the line of Terry McEvoy from Stephens. Your line is open.
Speaker #11: Thanks . Good morning everybody . Good morning . Maybe start with just a question on fees . If I annualize the fourth quarter , it's kind of at the high end of your outlook .
Speaker #11: 2026, and I'm wondering, is there a bit of conservative conservatism built into your outlook, or maybe mortgage returns to more, more normal levels?
John Moran: Yeah. I think, Terry, there's a little bit of seasonality, obviously, in first quarter on the mortgage line. Mortgage was good last year. I wouldn't say great, but good. We've got a constructive or more constructive anyway rate backdrop on that line of business. So I'd say we're cautiously optimistic on mortgage for 2026. But what you see in the guide is if I were going to pick on two places where maybe we've got some upside, it would be mortgage and capital markets, both of which have been really good in the back half of 2025.
Speaker #11: Hoping to get your thoughts there.
Jim Ryan: We've got a constructive or more constructive anyway rate backdrop on that line of business. So I'd say we're cautiously optimistic on mortgage for 2026. But what you see in the guide is if I were going to pick on two places where maybe we've got some upside, it would be mortgage and capital markets, both of which have been really good in the back half of 2025. Yep. Agreed. And then as a follow-up, new production yields were 6% last quarter, I think, in the presentation. Could you just run through what's the incremental kind of repricing benefit that you're seeing? And John, could you run through the securities repricing as well? I couldn't get all those. Couldn't write everything down as you were going through your prepared remarks. Yeah, no problem.
Speaker #11: .
Speaker #5: there's a little Terry , Yeah , bit of I think , seasonality . Obviously in first quarter on the and mortgage mortgage was good last year .
Speaker #5: wouldn't say great , I but good . We've got a constructive or more constructive anyway . Rate backdrop on that line of business .
Speaker #5: So I'd say we're cautiously optimistic on mortgage for 26 . But but what you see in the guide is , you know , if I were going to pick on two places where , where maybe we've got some upside , it would be mortgage and cap markets , both of which have been have been really good in the back half of 2025 .
Terry McEvoy: Yep. Agreed. And then as a follow-up, new production yields were 6% last quarter, I think, in the presentation. Could you just run through what's the incremental kind of repricing benefit that you're seeing? And John, could you run through the securities repricing as well? I couldn't get all those. Couldn't write everything down as you were going through your prepared remarks.
Speaker #11: Yep . Agreed . And then as a follow up , new production yields were 6% last quarter . I think in the presentation , could you just run through what's the incremental kind of repricing benefit that you're seeing .
John Moran: Yeah, no problem. In total, there's on the loan side, 70 basis points in terms of spread to new yields against the portfolio, about $5 billion of that over the next 12 months. And then on the investment portfolio, $2.9 billion of cash flow over the next 12 months. And those new money yields are 94 basis points above the backbook yield.
Speaker #11: And and John can you run through the securities repricing those as well ? get all couldn't write everything down as you were going through your prepared remarks .
Jim Ryan: In total, there's on the loan side, 70 basis points in terms of spread to new yields against the portfolio, about $5 billion of that over the next 12 months. And then on the investment portfolio, $2.9 billion of cash flow over the next 12 months. And those new money yields are 94 basis points above the backbook yield. Perfect. Thanks for taking my questions. Thanks, Terry. Your next question comes from the line of Janet Lee from TD Cowen. Your line is open. Good morning. Good morning, Janet. For your securities portfolio, the new money yields of 5%. It seems pretty solid. What's the underlying drivers behind the securities yields that you're earning? And is it fair to assume the securities investment portfolio stays around this level or running down as your expectation for deposit growth appears to be in line with your own growth for 2026? Yeah.
Speaker #5: Yeah . No problem . In total there's there's , you know , on the loan side 70 basis points in terms of spread to new yields against the against the portfolio , about $5 billion of of that over the next 12 months .
Speaker #5: And then on the investment portfolio . $2.9 billion of cash flow over the next 12 months . And those new money yields are 94 basis points above the the back book yield .
Terry McEvoy: Perfect. Thanks for taking my questions.
John Moran: Thanks, Terry.
Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Janet Lee from TD Cowen. Your line is open.
Speaker #11: Perfect . Thanks for taking my questions .
Speaker #3: Terry Thanks , .
Janet Lee: Good morning.
Jim Ryan: Good morning, Janet.
Speaker #1: question comes Your next from the line of Janet Lee from TD Cowan . Your line is open .
Janet Lee: For your securities portfolio, the new money yields of 5%. It seems pretty solid. What's the underlying drivers behind the securities yields that you're earning? And is it fair to assume the securities investment portfolio stays around this level or running down as your expectation for deposit growth appears to be in line with your own growth for 2026? Yeah.
Speaker #12: Good morning .
Speaker #3: Good morning Janet .
Speaker #12: For your securities portfolio, the new money yield is 5%. It seems pretty solid. What's underlying—what are the underlying drivers behind the securities yields that you're earning?
Speaker #12: And is it fair to assume the securities investment portfolio stays around this level, or is it running down, as your expectation for deposit growth appears to be in line with your loan growth for 2026?
Jim Ryan: I think securities is a percentage of earning assets, or the way that we kind of look at it is cash and securities is a percentage of total assets. And I think that that's going to be pretty stable over 2026. So we don't really intend to grow it nor shrink it. I think we'll just continue to invest cash flow. And in terms of where we're going, it's really plain vanilla stuff. I mean, we're targeting kind of a four duration. And Mike and his team do a good job managing that for us. So I don't think there's going to be big changes in our securities book. Got it. Thank you.
Jim Ryan: I think securities is a percentage of earning assets, or the way that we kind of look at it is cash and securities is a percentage of total assets. And I think that that's going to be pretty stable over 2026. So we don't really intend to grow it nor shrink it. I think we'll just continue to invest cash flow. And in terms of where we're going, it's really plain vanilla stuff. I mean, we're targeting kind of a four duration. And Mike and his team do a good job managing that for us. So I don't think there's going to be big changes in our securities book.
Speaker #5: Yeah, I think securities is a percentage of earning assets, or the way that we kind of look at it is cash and securities as a percentage of total assets.
Speaker #5: And I think that that's going to be pretty stable over 2026 . So we don't really intend to grow it nor shrink it .
Speaker #5: think we'll I just continue to invest cash flow . And in terms of where we're going , it's really plain vanilla stuff . I mean , we're targeting we're targeting kind of a for duration and and Mike and his team do a good job managing that for us .
Janet Lee: Got it. Thank you. Just to follow up on deposit costs, in your expectation for your NIM of stable to moving higher throughout 2026, so the spot rate of 1.68%, that seems, I mean, given the strength of your deposit franchise, it seems lower than peers, and it looks lower on an absolute basis. Is your expectation that the total deposit cost could creep down more from the current levels given the amount of exception pricing deposits that you have on your balance sheet, or is more of the benefit coming from the fixed-rate asset repricing?
Jim Ryan: Just to follow up on deposit costs, in your expectation for your NIM of stable to moving higher throughout 2026, so the spot rate of 1.68%, that seems, I mean, given the strength of your deposit franchise, it seems lower than peers, and it looks lower on an absolute basis. Is your expectation that the total deposit cost could creep down more from the current levels given the amount of exception pricing deposits that you have on your balance sheet, or is more of the benefit coming from the fixed-rate asset repricing? I think it's both. Look, where we managed all of our up beta in the deposit book was via that exception price book. That book today is 36% of total deposits. It's about 45% of our transactional accounts. And that price, we think we still have room to pull down.
Speaker #5: So I don't think there's going to be big changes in our in our securities book .
Speaker #12: Got it. Thank you. And just to follow up on deposit costs in your expectation for your NIM of stable to moving higher throughout 2026.
Speaker #12: So the spot rate of 1.68% , that seems I the mean , given strength of your franchise , it deposit seems lower than and it looks lower on an absolute basis .
Speaker #12: There is expectation that the total deposit cost could creep down more from the current levels, given the amount of exceptional pricing deposits that you have on your balance sheet, or is more of the benefit coming from the fixed rate asset repricing?
Jim Ryan: I think it's both. Look, where we managed all of our up beta in the deposit book was via that exception price book. That book today is 36% of total deposits. It's about 45% of our transactional accounts. And that price, we think we still have room to pull down.
Speaker #5: I think it's both. You know, look, where we managed all of our up beta in the deposit book was via that exception price book.
Speaker #5: That book today is 36% of total deposits . It's about 45% of our transactional accounts . And that price , we think we still have room to to pull down and , you know , look , we're continuing to work that book really hard .
Jim Ryan: Look, we're continuing to work that book really hard. We've realized almost a 90% beta on that one, kind of point to point, and we're ready to move proactively with rates. Thank you. Your next question comes from the line of Chris McGraty from KBW. Your line is open. Hello. Good morning. Thanks for the question. Good morning, Chris. Jim or John, one of your peers made a comment recently that said deposit pricing, and particularly Chicago, was actually pretty reasonable, which is something I haven't really heard in my career. Any comments on deposit repricing by your markets, which span the Midwest? Yeah. Look, I would suggest that it's still competitive. But I think almost everywhere, it has been very, very rational.
Look, we're continuing to work that book really hard. We've realized almost a 90% beta on that one, kind of point to point, and we're ready to move proactively with rates.
Janet Lee: Thank you.
Speaker #5: We've realized almost a 90% beta that on of point one kind to point , and we're ready to move proactively with rates .
Operator: Your next question comes from the line of Chris McGraty from KBW. Your line is open.
Speaker #12: Thank you .
Chris McGratty: Hello. Good morning. Thanks for the question.
Speaker #1: Your next question comes from of Chris Mcgratty from KBW . Your line is open .
Jim Ryan: Good morning, Chris.
Chris McGratty: Jim or John, one of your peers made a comment recently that said deposit pricing, and particularly Chicago, was actually pretty reasonable, which is something I haven't really heard in my career. Any comments on deposit repricing by your markets, which span the Midwest?
Speaker #13: Hey, morning. Thanks for the question.
Speaker #3: Chris .
Speaker #13: Jim or John , one of your peers was made a comment recently that said deposit pricing in particularly Chicago was was actually pretty reasonable , which is something I haven't really heard in my career .
John Moran: Yeah. Look, I would suggest that it's still competitive. But I think almost everywhere, it has been very, very rational. There are a handful of markets out there that are a little bit spicier, but I think for the vast majority of our footprint, and certainly any place where we've got meaningful deposits and meaningful share, things have been very rational.
Speaker #13: Any comments on deposit repricing by your markets, which span the Midwest?
Speaker #5: Yeah . Look , I would I would suggest that it's still competitive , but I think almost everywhere it is , it has been very , very rational .
Jim Ryan: There are a handful of markets out there that are a little bit spicier, but I think for the vast majority of our footprint, and certainly any place where we've got meaningful deposits and meaningful share, things have been very rational. Okay. Then just quickly on the expenses, technology spend's gotten a lot of attention this quarter. I'm not sure if I've seen a number from you, what piece of the expenses are going into tech investments, but any color there, either percent of revenues, rate of growth, and any kind of color to kind of give us some context there. Thanks. Maybe just let me give you a 50,000-foot view. I think we're spending as much as we can at this point in time. We're not underfunding new investments. We're thinking about innovation in the payment space, innovation in the client-facing capabilities.
Speaker #5: There are a handful of markets out there that are a little bit spicier, but I think for the vast majority of our footprint, and certainly any place where we've got meaningful deposits and meaningful share, things have been very rational.
Chris McGratty: Okay. Then just quickly on the expenses, technology spend's gotten a lot of attention this quarter. I'm not sure if I've seen a number from you, what piece of the expenses are going into tech investments, but any color there, either percent of revenues, rate of growth, and any kind of color to kind of give us some context there. Thanks.
Speaker #13: Okay . And then just quickly on the on the expenses technology has gotten a lot of attention this quarter . I'm not sure if I've seen a number from you of what piece of the expenses are going into tech any investments , but color there , either .
Jim Ryan: Maybe just let me give you a 50,000-foot view. I think we're spending as much as we can at this point in time. We're not underfunding new investments. We're thinking about innovation in the payment space, innovation in the client-facing capabilities.
Speaker #13: Percent of revenues, rate of growth, any kind of color to kind of give us some context there. Thanks.
Speaker #3: You know, maybe just let me give you a 50,000-foot view. I think we're spending as much ahead at this point in time.
Speaker #3: We're not under-funding new investments . We're thinking about , you know , innovation , you know , in the payment space , innovation in the the client facing capabilities .
Jim Ryan: And we're really good at self-funding a lot of that. Even though we keep grinding on the efficiency ratio, we're really good about self-funding those new investments. If there's anything that I think we're going to continue to put pressure on, it's probably that salaries line item. As I said earlier, I want to make John uncomfortable with the amount of people that we plan to hire to really grow the front line. So I'm very comfortable with our technology spend, and I'm even more comfortable that we couldn't spend any more really and handle the organizational change that comes out of that. So I think we're at the right level, and we're certainly not underfunding any opportunities that are in front of us. All right. Great. Thank you. Your next question comes from the line of David Cheverini from Jefferies. Your line is open. Hi.
And we're really good at self-funding a lot of that. Even though we keep grinding on the efficiency ratio, we're really good about self-funding those new investments. If there's anything that I think we're going to continue to put pressure on, it's probably that salaries line item. As I said earlier, I want to make John uncomfortable with the amount of people that we plan to hire to really grow the front line. So I'm very comfortable with our technology spend, and I'm even more comfortable that we couldn't spend any more really and handle the organizational change that comes out of that. So I think we're at the right level, and we're certainly not underfunding any opportunities that are in front of us.
Speaker #3: And we're really good at self-funding a lot of that , even though we keep grinding on the efficiency ratio , we're really good about self-funding those new investments .
Speaker #3: If there's anything that I think we're going to continue to put pressure on, it's probably that salaries line item. As I said earlier, I want to make uncomfortable with John the amount of people that we plan to hire really to grow the front line.
Speaker #3: So I'm very comfortable with our technology spend, and even more, I'm comfortable that we couldn't spend any more, really, and handle the organizational change that comes out of that.
Chris McGratty: All right. Great. Thank you.
Speaker #3: So I think we're at the right level, and we're certainly not underfunding any opportunities that are in front of us.
Operator: Your next question comes from the line of David Cheverini from Jefferies. Your line is open. Hi.
Speaker #13: All right. Great. Thank you.
Jim Ryan: Thanks for taking the question. So I wanted to circle back to loan growth, the 4% to 6% guide. Can you talk about what could lead to the high end versus the low end, and also talk about borrower sentiment on the commercial side? Sure thing. Good morning, David. This is Tim. I'll start with the sentiment side. We think customers are feeling more optimistic about 2026 than the prior few years. Part of the contributing factors would be lower rates, more experience dealing with tariffs, clarity on the tax bill, and certainly M&A heating up. So we think from a demand perspective, sentiment is driving that higher. As far as some of the factors that could drive the higher end of that, we're seeing middle market C&I picking up.
David Chiaverini: Thanks for taking the question. So I wanted to circle back to loan growth, the 4% to 6% guide. Can you talk about what could lead to the high end versus the low end, and also talk about borrower sentiment on the commercial side?
Speaker #1: next Our question comes from the line of David Severini from Jefferies . Your line is open .
Speaker #14: Thanks for Hi . taking the question . So I wanted to circle back to loan growth . The 4 to 6% guide . Can you talk about what could lead to the high end versus the low end ?
Timothy Burke: Sure thing. Good morning, David. This is Tim. I'll start with the sentiment side. We think customers are feeling more optimistic about 2026 than the prior few years. Part of the contributing factors would be lower rates, more experience dealing with tariffs, clarity on the tax bill, and certainly M&A heating up. So we think from a demand perspective, sentiment is driving that higher. As far as some of the factors that could drive the higher end of that, we're seeing middle market C&I picking up.
Speaker #14: And also talk about borrower sentiment on the commercial side ?
Speaker #9: Sure thing . morning Good . David . This is Tim . I'll start with the sentiment side . You know we think customers are feeling more optimistic about 2026 than the prior few years .
Speaker #9: You know , part of the contributing factors would be lower more rates . You know , experienced dealing with tariffs , clarity on the tax bill , and .
Speaker #9: Certainly M&A up . So heating we think from a demand perspective , you know , things are sentiment is driving that higher . As far as some of the factors that could drive the higher end of that .
Jim Ryan: We think our message of being a community bank, very client-centric, is one that plays very well in that space. To continue to build on Jim's comment, talent is a big factor. I think continuing to add bankers strategically in high-growth markets will help drive that. And I think our expansion markets continue to show really good loan growth and opportunity as we continue to build out those teams. Great. Thanks for that. And then on the outlook for M&A, so the Bremer integration has gone well. Can you give us your latest thoughts on your appetite for M&A going forward? Yeah. I think it's like we said last quarter, we're really focused in on investing in ourselves, being a better version of ourselves. I think that's the best return we can provide for our shareholders today is continue to work on ourselves and grow organically.
We think our message of being a community bank, very client-centric, is one that plays very well in that space. To continue to build on Jim's comment, talent is a big factor. I think continuing to add bankers strategically in high-growth markets will help drive that. And I think our expansion markets continue to show really good loan growth and opportunity as we continue to build out those teams.
Speaker #9: You know we're seeing middle market CNI picking up . We think our message of being a bank community , very client centric , is one that that plays very well in that space to continue to build on Jim's comment , talent is a big factor in continuing to add bankers strategically in high growth markets will help drive that .
David Chiaverini: Great. Thanks for that. And then on the outlook for M&A, so the Bremer integration has gone well. Can you give us your latest thoughts on your appetite for M&A going forward?
Speaker #9: And I think our expansion markets continue to show really good growth and loan opportunity as we continue to build out those teams .
Speaker #14: Great . Thanks for that . And then on the outlook for M&A . So the Bremer integration has has gone well . Can you give us your your latest thoughts on your appetite for M&A going forward .
Jim Ryan: Yeah. I think it's like we said last quarter, we're really focused in on investing in ourselves, being a better version of ourselves. I think that's the best return we can provide for our shareholders today is continue to work on ourselves and grow organically. It's not a focus. It's not something we're spending a lot of time on today. Nothing would make me happier if we finished the year just by being a better version of ourselves.
Speaker #3: Yeah, I think it's like we said last quarter—we're really focused in on investing in ourselves, being a better version of ourselves.
Speaker #3: The I think the that's the best return we can provide for our shareholders today is continue to to work on ourselves and , and grow organically .
Jim Ryan: It's not a focus. It's not something we're spending a lot of time on today. Nothing would make me happier if we finished the year just by being a better version of ourselves. Very helpful. Thank you. Thank you. Your next question comes from the line of John Arfstrom from RBC. Your line is open. Hey, thanks. Good morning. Good morning. Good to hear from you. Yep. John, the strategic portfolio management that you referenced earlier, how much is left to do there? I think it's kind of constant, ongoing. John, it's just like the inflow into the classified buckets that we saw starting kind of 18 months ago. We really feel like we got our arms around that. Obviously, the loss content there has been de minimis. I think we're through the worst of it. But ongoing active portfolio management like we always do. Yep. Okay.
Speaker #3: And it's just not it's not a focus . It's not something we're spending a lot of time on today . And , you know , nothing would make me happier if we finished the year just by just by being a better version of ourselves .
David Chiaverini: Very helpful. Thank you.
Jim Ryan: Thank you.
Operator: Your next question comes from the line of John Arfstrom from RBC. Your line is open.
Speaker #14: Very helpful . Thank you .
Jon Arfstrom: Hey, thanks. Good morning.
Speaker #3: Thank you .
John Moran: Good morning. Good to hear from you.
Speaker #1: Your next question comes from the line of John Arfstrom from RBC. Your line is open.
Jon Arfstrom: Yep. John, the strategic portfolio management that you referenced earlier, how much is left to do there?
Speaker #15: Hey, thanks. Good morning.
Speaker #3: morning . Good Good to hear from you .
John Moran: I think it's kind of constant, ongoing. John, it's just like the inflow into the classified buckets that we saw starting kind of 18 months ago. We really feel like we got our arms around that. Obviously, the loss content there has been de minimis. I think we're through the worst of it. But ongoing active portfolio management like we always do.
Speaker #15: Yeah . John , the strategic portfolio management that you referenced earlier , how much is left to do there ?
Speaker #5: I think it's I think it's kind of constant and ongoing , John . It's just like , the , the look the inflow into the classified and buckets that we saw starting kind of 18 months ago .
Speaker #5: We really feel like we've got our arms around that . You know , obviously the lost content there has been de minimis and , you know , I think we're through the worst of it ongoing active .
Jon Arfstrom: Yep. Okay. Maybe Jim, can you talk a little bit more about the wealth strategy and outlook and what kind of expectations you have for that business?
Jim Ryan: Maybe Jim, can you talk a little bit more about the wealth strategy and outlook and what kind of expectations you have for that business? Yeah. I think we're doing really well there. But again, I would reiterate my comments around the talent. That's really a talent play. Tim's spending a lot of time with our wealth team specifically. He's meeting with the sales team here next week, really trying to ramp up expectations around ongoing hiring in that space. We've been successful and probably more successful than many of our peers have been in that space. But I think we can do even better. I really see great opportunities for us there. So I think we've built the product capabilities to be successful. We've got the right business model. I think we're organized for success.
Speaker #5: But portfolio management, like we always do.
Speaker #15: Yeah, okay. Maybe Jim, can you talk a little bit more about the wealth strategy and outlook, and what kind of expectations you have for the business there?
Jim Ryan: Yeah. I think we're doing really well there. But again, I would reiterate my comments around the talent. That's really a talent play. Tim's spending a lot of time with our wealth team specifically. He's meeting with the sales team here next week, really trying to ramp up expectations around ongoing hiring in that space. We've been successful and probably more successful than many of our peers have been in that space. But I think we can do even better. I really see great opportunities for us there. So I think we've built the product capabilities to be successful. We've got the right business model. I think we're organized for success.
Speaker #3: Yeah , I think we're doing really well there . But again , I also I would reiterate my comments around the talent . That's really a talent play .
Speaker #3: know , Tim , You spending a lot of time with our wealth teams , he's meeting sales team here week next , really trying to to ramp up expectations around ongoing hiring in that space .
Speaker #3: We've been successful and probably more successful than our peers , than many of you know , have been in that space . But I think we can do even better .
Speaker #3: I really see great opportunities for us there . So I think we've built the product capabilities to to be successful . We've got the right business model .
Jim Ryan: But really, what we can do is I think we're underpenetrated in some of our biggest markets with talent. And I think if we can pull that part off, which I believe we can, I think we can even see higher growth coming out of that business line. And one thing I would add, this is Tim. I think our partnership and collaboration with the commercial bank, there continues to be opportunities to more fully deliver the entire bank into our wealth clients and into our commercial clients. And we're seeing partnerships and those referral activities really drive good results there. Yeah. Okay. Fair enough. And Jim, congratulations to the Hoosiers. I know you're pushing Moran on expenses, but hopefully there's room for some Hoosier game day lager in the budget. I like it. I like it. We're very excited, and we're so proud of him. What a great story.
But really, what we can do is I think we're underpenetrated in some of our biggest markets with talent. And I think if we can pull that part off, which I believe we can, I think we can even see higher growth coming out of that business line.
Speaker #3: I think we're organized for success. But really, where we can do better is, I think we're under in some of our biggest markets with talent.
Timothy Burke: And one thing I would add, this is Tim. I think our partnership and collaboration with the commercial bank, there continues to be opportunities to more fully deliver the entire bank into our wealth clients and into our commercial clients. And we're seeing partnerships and those referral activities really drive good results there.
Speaker #3: And I think if we can pull that part off , which which I believe we can , I think we can even see higher growth coming out of that business line .
Speaker #9: And one thing I would add this is Tim . I think our partnership and collaboration with the commercial Bank , you know , there's continues to be opportunities to to more fully deliver the entire bank into our wealth , clients and into our commercial clients .
Jon Arfstrom: Yeah. Okay. Fair enough. And Jim, congratulations to the Hoosiers. I know you're pushing Moran on expenses, but hopefully there's room for some Hoosier game day lager in the budget.
Speaker #9: And we're seeing partnerships and those referral activities really drive good results . There .
Speaker #15: Yeah . Okay . Fair enough . And Jim , congratulations to the Hoosiers . I know you're pushing on Moran expenses , but hopefully there's room for some Hoosier game Day lager in the budget .
Jim Ryan: I like it. I like it. We're very excited, and we're so proud of him. What a great story. And can't wait for the movie Hoosiers 2 to come out soon.
Jim Ryan: And can't wait for the movie Hoosiers 2 to come out soon. Great story. Thank you. Thanks. And there are no further questions at this time. I'd like to turn the call back over to Jim Ryan for closing remarks. Thank you all for your support and participation. The team will be available for calls all day today. Thanks so much. Go Hoosiers. This concludes Old National's call. Once again, a replay along with the presentation slides will be available for 12 months on the investor relations page of Old National's website, oldnational.com. A replay of the call will also be available by dialing 800-770-2030, access code 939-4540. This replay will be available through 4 February. If anyone has any additional questions, please contact Lynelle Dierkholz at 812-464-1366. Thank you for your participation in today's conference call.
Speaker #3: Yeah .
Jon Arfstrom: Great story. Thank you.
Speaker #16: I like it . I like it . We're very excited .
Jim Ryan: Thanks.
Operator: And there are no further questions at this time. I'd like to turn the call back over to Jim Ryan for closing remarks.
Speaker #3: And we're so proud of him. What a great story, and can't wait for the movie Hoosiers to come out soon.
Speaker #15: Great story. Thank you.
Speaker #3: Thanks .
Jim Ryan: Thank you all for your support and participation. The team will be available for calls all day today. Thanks so much. Go Hoosiers.
Speaker #1: And there are no further questions at this time. I'd like to turn the call back over to Jim Ryan for closing remarks.
Operator: This concludes Old National's call. Once again, a replay along with the presentation slides will be available for 12 months on the investor relations page of Old National's website, oldnational.com. A replay of the call will also be available by dialing 800-770-2030, access code 939-4540. This replay will be available through 4 February. If anyone has any additional questions, please contact Lynelle Dierkholz at 812-464-1366. Thank you for your participation in today's conference call.
Speaker #3: Thank you all for your support and participation. The team will be available for calls all day today. Thank you so much.
Speaker #3: Go , Hoosiers !
Speaker #1: This concludes Old National's call. Once again, a replay along with the presentation slides will be available for 12 months on the Investor Relations page of Old National's website.
Speaker #1: Old National . Com a replay of the also be call will available by dialing 877 02030 . Access code 9394540 . This replay will be available through anyone has February 4th .
