Q4 2025 Banco Macro SA Earnings Call

Speaker #2: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you for waiting. At this time, we would like to welcome everyone to Banco Macro's fourth quarter 25 earnings conference call.

Operator: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you for waiting. At this time, we would like to welcome everyone to Banco Macro's Q4 2025 Earnings Conference Call. We would like to inform you that the Q4 2025 press release is available to download at investor relations website of Banco Macro at www.macro.com.ar/relaciones-inversores. Also, this event is being recorded, and all participants will be in listen-only mode during the company's presentation. After the company's remarks are completed, there will be a Q&A section. At that time, further instructions will be given. It's now my pleasure to introduce our speakers. Joining us from Argentina are Mr. Juan Parma, Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jorge Scarinci, Chief Financial Officer, and Mr. Nicolás Torres, Investor Relations. Now, I'll turn the conference over to Mr. Nicolás Torres. You may begin your conference, sir.

Operator: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you for waiting. At this time, we would like to welcome everyone to Banco Macro's Q4 2025 Earnings Conference Call. We would like to inform you that the Q4 2025 press release is available to download at investor relations website of Banco Macro at www.macro.com.ar/relaciones-inversores. Also, this event is being recorded, and all participants will be in listen-only mode during the company's presentation. After the company's remarks are completed, there will be a Q&A section. At that time, further instructions will be given. It's now my pleasure to introduce our speakers. Joining us from Argentina are Mr. Juan Parma, Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jorge Scarinci, Chief Financial Officer, and Mr. Nicolás Torres, Investor Relations. Now, I'll turn the conference over to Mr. Nicolás Torres. You may begin your conference, sir.

Speaker #2: We would like to inform you that the fourth Q25 press release is available to download at investorrelations website of Banco Macro at www.macro.com.ar/relaciones-inversores. Also, this event is being recorded and all participants will be enlisted on remote during the conference presentation.

Speaker #2: After the company's remarks are completed, there will be a Q&A section. At that time, further instructions will be given. It's now my pleasure to introduce our speakers.

Speaker #2: Joining us for an Argentina are Mr. Juan Parma, Chief Executive Officer; Mr. Jorge Scarinchi, Chief Financial Officer; and Mr. Nicolas Torres, Investor Relations. Now, I'll turn the conference over to Mr. Nicolas Torres.

Speaker #2: You may begin your conference, sir.

Speaker #3: Thank you, and good morning. Good morning, and welcome to Banco Macro's fourth quarter 2025 conference call. Any comment we may make today may include forward-looking statements which are subject to various conditions, and these are signed in our 20F with a file to the SEC and available on the website.

Nicolás A. Torres: Thank you. Good morning. Good morning, welcome to Banco Macro's Q4 2025 Conference Call. Any comment we may make today may include forward-looking statements, which are subject to various conditions. These are right in our 20-F we would file to the SEC, and it's available on our website. Q4 2025 press release was distributed yesterday. It's available at our website. Our figures are in Argentine pesos and have been restated in terms of the ARS million unit current at the end of the reporting period. As of 2020, the bank has begun reporting results applying hyperinflation accounting in accordance with IFRS IAS 29, as established by the Central Bank. For ease of comparison, figures for previous quarters have been restated applying IAS 29 to reflect the accumulated effect of inflation adjustment for each period through 31 December 2025.

Nicolás Torres: Thank you. Good morning. Good morning, welcome to Banco Macro's Q4 2025 Conference Call. Any comment we may make today may include forward-looking statements, which are subject to various conditions. These are right in our 20-F we would file to the SEC, and it's available on our website. Q4 2025 press release was distributed yesterday. It's available at our website. Our figures are in Argentine pesos and have been restated in terms of the ARS million unit current at the end of the reporting period. As of 2020, the bank has begun reporting results applying hyperinflation accounting in accordance with IFRS IAS 29, as established by the Central Bank. For ease of comparison, figures for previous quarters have been restated applying IAS 29 to reflect the accumulated effect of inflation adjustment for each period through 31 December 2025.

Speaker #3: Fourth quarter 2025 press release was distributed yesterday and is available at our website. All figures are in Argentine pesos and have been restated in terms of the measurement unit performed at the end of the reporting period.

Speaker #3: As of 2020, the bank began reporting results applying hyperinflation accounting in accordance with IFRS/IAS 29 as established by the central bank. For ease of comparison, figures previous quarters have been restated applying IAS 29 to reflect the accumulated effect of inflation adjustment for each period through December 31, 2025.

Speaker #3: I will now briefly comment on the bank's fourth quarter 2025 financial results. In the fourth quarter of 2025, Banco Macro's net income totaled 100 billion pesos, 290.7 billion pesos in fiscal year 2025, recovering from the loss posted in the previous quarter.

Nicolás A. Torres: I will now briefly comment on the bank's Q4 2025 financial results. In Q4 2025, Banco Macro net income totaled ARS 100 billion, ARS 297 billion in fiscal year 2025, recovering from the loss posted in the previous quarter. This result was 26%, or ARS 34.4 billion lower than the result posted in Q4 2024. In Q4 2025, the accumulated annualized return on average equity and accumulated annualized return on average assets were 5.1 and 1.4% respectively.

Nicolás Torres: I will now briefly comment on the bank's Q4 2025 financial results. In Q4 2025, Banco Macro net income totaled ARS 100 billion, ARS 297 billion in fiscal year 2025, recovering from the loss posted in the previous quarter. This result was 26%, or ARS 34.4 billion lower than the result posted in Q4 2024. In Q4 2025, the accumulated annualized return on average equity and accumulated annualized return on average assets were 5.1 and 1.4% respectively.

Speaker #3: This result was 26% or 34.4 billion pesos lower than the result posted in the fourth quarter of 2024. In the fourth quarter of 2025, the accumulated annualized return on average equity and accumulated annualized return on average assets were 5.1 and 1.4% respectively.

Speaker #3: Excluding 82.9 billion pesos of non-recurring expenses in fourth quarter 2025, net income would have totaled 183 billion pesos and 393.7 billion pesos in fiscal year 2025, and accumulated ROE and ROA would have been 6.6% and 1.8% respectively.

Nicolás A. Torres: Excluding ARS 82.9 billion of non-recurring expenses in Q4 2025, net income would have totaled ARS 183 billion and ARS 393.7 billion for fiscal year 2025. Accumulated ROE and ROA would have been 6.6% and 1.8% respectively. In fiscal year 2025, net income totaled ARS 290.7 billion, 32% lower than in fiscal year 2024. Total comprehensive income totaled ARS 303 billion and was 1% higher than in fiscal year 2024. In Q4 2025, ARS 82.9 billion restructuring expenses were recorded related to early retirement plans and provisions for severance payments.

Nicolás Torres: Excluding ARS 82.9 billion of non-recurring expenses in Q4 2025, net income would have totaled ARS 183 billion and ARS 393.7 billion for fiscal year 2025. Accumulated ROE and ROA would have been 6.6% and 1.8% respectively. In fiscal year 2025, net income totaled ARS 290.7 billion, 32% lower than in fiscal year 2024. Total comprehensive income totaled ARS 303 billion and was 1% higher than in fiscal year 2024. In Q4 2025, ARS 82.9 billion restructuring expenses were recorded related to early retirement plans and provisions for severance payments.

Speaker #3: In fiscal year 2025, net income totaled 290.7 billion pesos, 32% lower than in fiscal year 2024, total comprehensive income totaled 303 billion pesos and was 1% higher than in fiscal year 2024.

Speaker #3: In the fourth quarter of 2025, 82.9 billion pesos restructuring expenses were recorded related to earlier retirement plans and provisions for severance payments. Excluding non-recurring expenses, fourth quarter 2025 net income would have been 183 billion pesos and fiscal year 2025 net income would have totaled 393.7 billion pesos.

Nicolás A. Torres: Excluding non-recurring expenses, Q4 2025 net income would have been ARS 103 billion, and fiscal year 2025 net income would have totaled ARS 393.7 billion, excluding the Q3 and Q4 2025 non-recurring expenses, representing an accumulated ROE and ROA of 6.6% and 1.8% respectively. In Q4 2025, operating income before general and administrative and personnel expenses totaled ARS 1.17 trillion, 39%, or ARS 324.2 billion higher than in Q3 2025, and 9%, or ARS 94.4 billion higher than in the same period of last year.

Nicolás Torres: Excluding non-recurring expenses, Q4 2025 net income would have been ARS 103 billion, and fiscal year 2025 net income would have totaled ARS 393.7 billion, excluding the Q3 and Q4 2025 non-recurring expenses, representing an accumulated ROE and ROA of 6.6% and 1.8% respectively. In Q4 2025, operating income before general and administrative and personnel expenses totaled ARS 1.17 trillion, 39%, or ARS 324.2 billion higher than in Q3 2025, and 9%, or ARS 94.4 billion higher than in the same period of last year.

Speaker #3: Excluding the third quarter and fourth quarter 2025 non-recurring expenses. Representing an accumulated ROE and ROA of 6.6% and 1.8% respectively. In the fourth quarter of 2025, operating income before general administrative and personal expenses totaled 1.17 trillion pesos, 39% or 324.2 billion pesos higher than in the third quarter of 2025, and 9% or 94.4 billion pesos higher than in the same period of last year.

Speaker #3: In fiscal year 2025, net operating income before general administrative and personal expenses totaled 4.1 trillion pesos, 33% lower than in fiscal year 2024. In the fourth quarter of 2025, provision for low losses totaled 169.3 billion pesos, 1% or 1.8 billion pesos lower than in the third quarter of 2025.

Nicolás A. Torres: In fiscal year 2025, net operating income before general, administrative, and personnel expenses totaled ARS 4.1 trillion, 33% lower than in fiscal year 2024. In Q4 2025, provision for loan losses totaled ARS 169.3 billion, 1%, or ARS 1.8 billion lower than in Q3 2025. On a yearly basis, provision for loan losses increased 243%, or ARS 120 billion. In fiscal year 2025, provision for loan losses totaled ARS 538.1 billion and were 274% higher than in fiscal year 2024.

Nicolás Torres: In fiscal year 2025, net operating income before general, administrative, and personnel expenses totaled ARS 4.1 trillion, 33% lower than in fiscal year 2024. In Q4 2025, provision for loan losses totaled ARS 169.3 billion, 1%, or ARS 1.8 billion lower than in Q3 2025. On a yearly basis, provision for loan losses increased 243%, or ARS 120 billion. In fiscal year 2025, provision for loan losses totaled ARS 538.1 billion and were 274% higher than in fiscal year 2024.

Speaker #3: On a yearly basis, provision for low losses increased 243% or 120 billion pesos. In fiscal year 2025, provision for low losses totaled 538.1 billion pesos and were 274% higher than in fiscal year 2024.

Speaker #3: In the quarter net interest income totaled 836.5 billion pesos, 13% or 96.4 billion pesos higher than in the third quarter of 2025, and 19% or 135.9 billion pesos higher year on year.

Nicolás A. Torres: In the quarter, net interest income totaled ARS 836.5 billion, 13%, or ARS 96.4 billion higher than Q3 2025, and 19%, or ARS 135.9 billion higher year-over-year. This result is due to a 7% increase in interest income and a 1% decrease in interest expense. In fiscal year 2025, net interest income totaled ARS 3.1 trillion and was 44% higher than in fiscal year 2024. Interest income increased 8%, while interest expense decreased 23%.

Nicolás Torres: In the quarter, net interest income totaled ARS 836.5 billion, 13%, or ARS 96.4 billion higher than Q3 2025, and 19%, or ARS 135.9 billion higher year-over-year. This result is due to a 7% increase in interest income and a 1% decrease in interest expense. In fiscal year 2025, net interest income totaled ARS 3.1 trillion and was 44% higher than in fiscal year 2024. Interest income increased 8%, while interest expense decreased 23%.

Speaker #3: This result is due to a 7% increase in interest income and a 1% decrease in interest expense. In fiscal year 2025, net interest income totaled 3.1 trillion pesos and was 44% higher than in fiscal year 2024.

Speaker #3: Interest income increased 8% while interest expense decreased 23%. In the fourth quarter of 2025, interest income totaled 1.4 billion and 7% or 91.6 billion higher than in the third quarter of 2025, and 30% or 324.1 billion higher than in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Nicolás A. Torres: In Q4 2025, interest income totaled ARS 1.4 billion, and 12%, or ARS 91.6 billion, higher than Q3 2025, and 30%, or ARS 324.1 billion, higher than Q4 2024. In fiscal year 2025, interest income totaled ARS 5 trillion, 8% higher than in fiscal year 2024. Income from interest on loans and other financials totaled ARS 1.4 trillion, 3%, or ARS 30.5 billion, higher compared with the previous quarter, mainly due to a 141 basis points increase in the average lending rate, while the average volume of private sector loans remained almost unchanged.

Nicolás Torres: In Q4 2025, interest income totaled ARS 1.4 billion, and 12%, or ARS 91.6 billion, higher than Q3 2025, and 30%, or ARS 324.1 billion, higher than Q4 2024. In fiscal year 2025, interest income totaled ARS 5 trillion, 8% higher than in fiscal year 2024. Income from interest on loans and other financials totaled ARS 1.4 trillion, 3%, or ARS 30.5 billion, higher compared with the previous quarter, mainly due to a 141 basis points increase in the average lending rate, while the average volume of private sector loans remained almost unchanged.

Speaker #3: In fiscal year 2025, interest income totaled 5 trillion, 8% higher than in fiscal year 2024. Income from interest on loans and other finances totaled 1.04 trillion pesos, 3% or 33.5 billion pesos higher compared with the previous quarter, mainly due to a 141 basis points increase in the average lending rate, while the average volume of private sector loans remained almost unchanged.

Speaker #3: On a yearly basis, income from interest on loans increased 58% or 379.3 billion pesos, and in fiscal year 2025, income from interest on loans and other finances totaled 3.61 trillion pesos, 30% higher than in fiscal year 2024.

Nicolás A. Torres: On a yearly basis, income from interest on loans increased 68%, or ARS 379.3 billion. In fiscal year 2025, income from interest on loans and other financials totaled ARS 3.61 trillion, 30% higher than in fiscal year 2024. In Q4 2024, interest on loans represented 74% of total interest income. In Q4 2025, income from government and private securities increased 105%, or ARS 306 million quarter-on-quarter. Increased 1% or ARS 6.2 billion compared with the same period of last year. In fiscal year 2025, income from government and private securities totaled ARS 1.76 trillion, 58% lower than in fiscal year 2024.

Nicolás Torres: On a yearly basis, income from interest on loans increased 68%, or ARS 379.3 billion. In fiscal year 2025, income from interest on loans and other financials totaled ARS 3.61 trillion, 30% higher than in fiscal year 2024. In Q4 2024, interest on loans represented 74% of total interest income. In Q4 2025, income from government and private securities increased 105%, or ARS 306 million quarter-on-quarter. Increased 1% or ARS 6.2 billion compared with the same period of last year. In fiscal year 2025, income from government and private securities totaled ARS 1.76 trillion, 58% lower than in fiscal year 2024.

Speaker #3: In the fourth quarter of 2024, interest on loans represented 74% of total interest income. In the fourth quarter of 2025, income from government and private securities increased 105% or 306 billion pesos quarter on quarter, and decreased 1% or 6.2 billion pesos compared with the same period of last year.

Speaker #3: In fiscal year 2025, income from government and private securities totaled 1.76 trillion pesos, 58% lower than in fiscal year 2024. In the fourth quarter of 2025, in terms of FX, the bank's strategy to remain short in US dollars during the second half of 2025 proved successful.

Nicolás A. Torres: In Q4 2025, in terms of effects, the bank's strategy to remain short in US dollars during the second half of 2025 proved successful. The combination of the short dollar position, together with the long future position and the allocation of the pesos generated by the sale of US dollars, resulted in a net gain of ARS 26.3 billion. In Q4 2025, interest expense totaled ARS 565.1 billion, decreasing 1% or ARS 4.8 billion compared to the previous quarter, and 50% higher compared to Q4 2024. In fiscal year 2025, interest expense totaled ARS 1.93 billion, 23% lower than in fiscal year 2024.

Nicolás Torres: In Q4 2025, in terms of effects, the bank's strategy to remain short in US dollars during the second half of 2025 proved successful. The combination of the short dollar position, together with the long future position and the allocation of the pesos generated by the sale of US dollars, resulted in a net gain of ARS 26.3 billion. In Q4 2025, interest expense totaled ARS 565.1 billion, decreasing 1% or ARS 4.8 billion compared to the previous quarter, and 50% higher compared to Q4 2024. In fiscal year 2025, interest expense totaled ARS 1.93 billion, 23% lower than in fiscal year 2024.

Speaker #3: The combination of the short dollar position together with the long future position and the allocation of the pesos generated by the sale of US dollars resulted in a net gain of 26.3 trillion pesos.

Speaker #3: In the fourth quarter of 2025, interest expense totaled 565.1 billion pesos, decreasing 1%, or 4.8 billion pesos, compared to the previous quarter, and 50% higher compared to the fourth quarter of 2024.

Speaker #3: In fiscal year 2025, interest expense totaled 1.96 billion pesos, 23% lower than in fiscal year 2024. Within interest expenses, interest on deposits decreased 1% or 5.6 billion pesos quarter on quarter due to a 168 basis points decrease in the average rate paid on deposits, while the average volume of private sector deposits increased 7%.

Nicolás A. Torres: Within interest expenses, interest on deposits decreased 1% or ARS 5.6 billion quarter-over-quarter, due to a 168 basis points decrease in the average rate paid on deposits, while the average volume of private sector deposits increased 7%. On a yearly basis, interest on deposits increased 48% or ARS 107.6 billion. In Q4 2025, the bank's net interest margin, including the tax, was 21.7%, higher than the 18% posted in Q3 2025 and lower than the 24.7% posted in Q4 2024.

Nicolás Torres: Within interest expenses, interest on deposits decreased 1% or ARS 5.6 billion quarter-over-quarter, due to a 168 basis points decrease in the average rate paid on deposits, while the average volume of private sector deposits increased 7%. On a yearly basis, interest on deposits increased 48% or ARS 107.6 billion. In Q4 2025, the bank's net interest margin, including the tax, was 21.7%, higher than the 18% posted in Q3 2025 and lower than the 24.7% posted in Q4 2024.

Speaker #3: On a yearly basis, interest on deposits increased 48% or 107.6 billion pesos. In the fourth quarter of 2025, the bank's net interest margin, including FX, was 21.7%, higher than the 18% posted in the third quarter of 2025 and lower than 24.7% posted in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Speaker #3: In the fourth quarter of 2025, Banco Macro's net income totaled 192.4 billion, FX's 1% or 1.2 billion higher than in the third quarter of 2025, and was 8% or 15 billion pesos higher than the same period of last year.

Nicolás A. Torres: In Q4 2025, Banco Macro net income totaled ARS 192.4 billion, which is 1% or ARS 1.2 billion higher than Q3 2025, and was 8% or ARS 15 billion higher than the same period last year. In fiscal year 2025, net income totaled ARS 767.4 billion, that is 20% higher than in fiscal year 2024. In the quarter, other operating income totaled ARS 22.3 billion, versus 3% or ARS 2.1, you know, lower than in Q3 2025, due to lower other income and lower other service-related fees, which were partially offset by higher income from initial recognition of loans.

Nicolás Torres: In Q4 2025, Banco Macro net income totaled ARS 192.4 billion, which is 1% or ARS 1.2 billion higher than Q3 2025, and was 8% or ARS 15 billion higher than the same period last year. In fiscal year 2025, net income totaled ARS 767.4 billion, that is 20% higher than in fiscal year 2024. In the quarter, other operating income totaled ARS 22.3 billion, versus 3% or ARS 2.1, you know, lower than in Q3 2025, due to lower other income and lower other service-related fees, which were partially offset by higher income from initial recognition of loans.

Speaker #3: In fiscal year 2025, net income totaled 767.4 billion pesos, 20% higher than in fiscal year 2024. In the quarter other operating income totaled 2.3 billion pesos, 3% or 2.1 in a lower than in the third quarter of 2025 due to lower other income and lower other service-related fees, which were partially offset by higher income from mutual recognition of loans.

Speaker #3: And on a yearly basis, other operating income increased 13% or 8.2 billion pesos. In fiscal year 2025, other operating income totaled 292.1 billion pesos unchanged from fiscal year 2024.

Nicolás A. Torres: On a yearly basis, other operating income increased 13% or ARS 8.2 billion. In fiscal year 2025, other operating income totaled ARS 282.1 billion, unchanged from fiscal year 2024. In Q4 2025, Banco Macro had major expenses, plus employee benefits, total of ARS 412.4 billion, 16% or ARS 54.8 billion higher than the previous quarter, due to higher employee benefits, which increased 18% and higher administrative expense, which increased 8%. On a yearly basis, administrative expense plus employee benefits increased 20% or ARS 58 billion. In fiscal year 2025, administrative expense plus employee benefits were unchanged compared to fiscal year 2024. Employee benefits increased 18% or ARS 45.8 billion quarter-on-quarter.

Nicolás Torres: On a yearly basis, other operating income increased 13% or ARS 8.2 billion. In fiscal year 2025, other operating income totaled ARS 282.1 billion, unchanged from fiscal year 2024. In Q4 2025, Banco Macro had major expenses, plus employee benefits, total of ARS 412.4 billion, 16% or ARS 54.8 billion higher than the previous quarter, due to higher employee benefits, which increased 18% and higher administrative expense, which increased 8%. On a yearly basis, administrative expense plus employee benefits increased 20% or ARS 58 billion. In fiscal year 2025, administrative expense plus employee benefits were unchanged compared to fiscal year 2024. Employee benefits increased 18% or ARS 45.8 billion quarter-on-quarter.

Speaker #3: In the fourth quarter of 2025, Banco Macro's administrative expenses plus employee benefits totaled $412.4 billion pesos, 15%, or $54.8 billion pesos, higher than the previous quarter due to higher employee benefits, which increased 18%, and higher administrative expenses, which increased 8%.

Speaker #3: On a yearly basis, administrative expenses plus employee benefits increased 20%, or 58 billion pesos. In fiscal year 2025, administrative expenses plus employee benefits were unchanged compared to fiscal year 2024.

Speaker #3: Employee benefits increased 18%, or 45.8 billion pesos, quarter on quarter. Compensation and bonuses increased 156%, or 68.7 billion pesos. In the fourth quarter of 2025, the bank recorded 82.9 billion pesos with surplus expenses related to early retirement plans and surplus payment provisions.

Nicolás A. Torres: Compensation and benefits increased 156% or ARS 68.7 billion. In Q4 2025, the bank required ARS 82.9 billion for restructuring expenses related to early retirement plans and severance payment provisions. Excluding restructuring expenses, employee benefits would have decreased 8% or ARS 17.1 billion. On a yearly basis, employee benefits increased 30% or ARS 67.5 billion, and excluding restructuring expenses, employee benefits would have been 7% or ARS 15.4 billion lower. In fiscal year 2025, employee benefits associated with personnel involved in restructuring expenses totaled ARS 49 billion.

Nicolás Torres: Compensation and benefits increased 156% or ARS 68.7 billion. In Q4 2025, the bank required ARS 82.9 billion for restructuring expenses related to early retirement plans and severance payment provisions. Excluding restructuring expenses, employee benefits would have decreased 8% or ARS 17.1 billion. On a yearly basis, employee benefits increased 30% or ARS 67.5 billion, and excluding restructuring expenses, employee benefits would have been 7% or ARS 15.4 billion lower. In fiscal year 2025, employee benefits associated with personnel involved in restructuring expenses totaled ARS 49 billion.

Speaker #3: Excluding resource-related expenses, employee benefits would have been decreased 8% or 17.1 billion pesos. On a yearly basis, employee benefits increased 30% or 67.5 billion pesos, and excluding resource-related expenses, employee benefits would have been 7% or 15.4 billion pesos lower.

Speaker #3: In fiscal year 2025, employee benefits associated with personal involved in resource-related expenses totaled 49 billion pesos. In the fourth quarter of 2025, deficiency ratio reached 38.7%, improving from the 46.5% posted in the third quarter of 2025 and the 39.4% posted one year ago.

Nicolás A. Torres: In Q4 2025, the efficiency ratio reached 38.7%, improving from the 46.5% posted in Q3 2025, and the 39.4% posted one year ago. In Q4 2025, expenses increased 13%, while net interest income, plus net fee income, plus other operating income increased 36% compared to Q3 2025. It is worth mentioning that during the fiscal year 2025, Banco Macro reduced its branch network by 75 branches, down to 444 branches from 519 branches in December 2024, and reduced its headcount by 514 employees. All this was achieved while gaining market share, both in private sector loans and private sector deposits.

Nicolás Torres: In Q4 2025, the efficiency ratio reached 38.7%, improving from the 46.5% posted in Q3 2025, and the 39.4% posted one year ago. In Q4 2025, expenses increased 13%, while net interest income, plus net fee income, plus other operating income increased 36% compared to Q3 2025. It is worth mentioning that during the fiscal year 2025, Banco Macro reduced its branch network by 75 branches, down to 444 branches from 519 branches in December 2024, and reduced its headcount by 514 employees. All this was achieved while gaining market share, both in private sector loans and private sector deposits.

Speaker #3: In the fourth quarter of 2025, expenses increased 13%, while net interest income plus net pay income plus other operating income increased 36% compared to the third quarter of 2025.

Speaker #3: It is worth mentioning that during the fiscal year 2025, Banco Macro reduced its branch network by 75 branches, down to 444 branches from 519 branches in December of 2024, and reduced its headcount by 514 employees.

Speaker #3: All this was achieved while gaining market share, both in private sector loans and private sector deposits. In the fourth quarter of 2025, the results from the net monetary position totaled 277 billion loss, 27% or 58.6 billion pesos higher than the loss posted in the third quarter of 2025, and 5% or 13.2 billion lower than the loss posted one year ago.

Nicolás A. Torres: In Q4 2025, the result from the net monetary position totaled ARS 277 billion loss, 27% or ARS 58.6 billion, that's higher than the loss posted in Q3 2025, and 5% or ARS 13.2 billion lower than the loss posted one year ago. Higher inflation was observed during the quarter, 189 basis points above Q3 2025. Inflation was 7.86% compared to 5.87% in Q3 2025. In fiscal year 2025, the result from the net monetary position totaled ARS 1.5 trillion loss, 66% lower than the one posted in fiscal year 2024.

Nicolás Torres: In Q4 2025, the result from the net monetary position totaled ARS 277 billion loss, 27% or ARS 58.6 billion, that's higher than the loss posted in Q3 2025, and 5% or ARS 13.2 billion lower than the loss posted one year ago. Higher inflation was observed during the quarter, 189 basis points above Q3 2025. Inflation was 7.86% compared to 5.87% in Q3 2025. In fiscal year 2025, the result from the net monetary position totaled ARS 1.5 trillion loss, 66% lower than the one posted in fiscal year 2024.

Speaker #3: Higher inflation was observed during the quarter, 189 basis points above the third quarter of 2025. Inflation was 7.86% compared to 5.97% in the third quarter of 2025.

Speaker #3: In fiscal year 2025, the results from the net monetary position totaled 1.05 trillion loss, 66% lower than the one posted in fiscal year 2024.

Speaker #3: Inflation in 2025 reached 31.5% compared to the 117.8% registered in 2024. In the fourth quarter of 2025, Banco Macro expected tax income tax rate was 47.2%.

Nicolás A. Torres: Inflation in 2025 reached 31.5%, compared to the 117.8% registered in 2024. In Q4 2025, Banco Macro's income tax rate was 47.2%, and in fiscal year 2025, effective tax rate was 43.1%, higher than the 9.2% registered in fiscal year 2024. Further information is provided in Note 24 to our financial statements. In terms of loan growth, the bank's total financing reached ARS 10.71 trillion, increasing 2% or ARS 211 billion quarter-over-quarter, and increased 40% or ARS 3.1 trillion year-over-year.

Nicolás Torres: Inflation in 2025 reached 31.5%, compared to the 117.8% registered in 2024. In Q4 2025, Banco Macro's income tax rate was 47.2%, and in fiscal year 2025, effective tax rate was 43.1%, higher than the 9.2% registered in fiscal year 2024. Further information is provided in Note 24 to our financial statements. In terms of loan growth, the bank's total financing reached ARS 10.71 trillion, increasing 2% or ARS 211 billion quarter-over-quarter, and increased 40% or ARS 3.1 trillion year-over-year.

Speaker #3: And in fiscal year 2025, expected tax rate was 43.1%, higher than the 9.2% registered in fiscal year 2024. Further information is provided in Note 24 to our financial statements.

Speaker #3: In terms of loan growth, the bank's total financing reached 10.71 trillion pesos, decreasing 2% or 211 billion pesos quarter on quarter. And increasing 40% or 3.1 trillion pesos year on year.

Speaker #3: In the fourth quarter of 2025, fiscal financing increased 2% or 196.4 billion pesos, while US dollar financing increased 20% or 407 million dollars. In fiscal year 2025, both fiscal financing and US dollar financing increased 36% and 12% respectively.

Nicolás A. Torres: In Q4 2025, peso financing increased 2% or ARS 196.4 billion, while US dollar financing increased 20% or $407 million. In fiscal year 2025, both peso financing and US dollar financing increased 36% and 12% respectively. It is important to mention that Banco Macro's market share over private sector loans as of December 2025 reached 8.3%, increasing 30 basis points compared to December of 2024. On the funding side, total deposits increased 8% or ARS 958.1 billion quarter-over-quarter, to ARS 13.7 trillion, and increased 24% or ARS 2.6 trillion year-over-year.

Nicolás Torres: In Q4 2025, peso financing increased 2% or ARS 196.4 billion, while US dollar financing increased 20% or $407 million. In fiscal year 2025, both peso financing and US dollar financing increased 36% and 12% respectively. It is important to mention that Banco Macro's market share over private sector loans as of December 2025 reached 8.3%, increasing 30 basis points compared to December of 2024. On the funding side, total deposits increased 8% or ARS 958.1 billion quarter-over-quarter, to ARS 13.7 trillion, and increased 24% or ARS 2.6 trillion year-over-year.

Speaker #3: It is important to mention that Banco Macro's market share over private sector loans as of December 2025 reached 8.3%, increasing 30 basis points compared to December 2024.

Speaker #3: On the finance side, total deposits increased 8% or 958.1 billion pesos quarter on quarter, totaling 13.7 trillion pesos, and increased 24% or 2.6 trillion pesos year on year.

Speaker #3: Private sector deposits increased 11% or 1.26 trillion pesos quarter on quarter, while public sector deposits decreased 33% or 310.4 billion pesos quarter on quarter.

Nicolás A. Torres: Private sector deposits increased 11% to ARS 1.26 trillion quarter-on-quarter, while public sector deposits decreased 33% or ARS 310.4 billion quarter-on-quarter. The increase in private sector deposits was led by time deposits, which increased 17% or ARS 978.5 billion, while demand deposits increased 5% of ARS 3,308.1 billion quarter-on-quarter. In the quarter, peso deposits increased 3% or ARS 234.9 billion, while US dollar deposits increased 10% or $300 million. On a yearly basis, peso deposits increased 18%, while dollar deposits decreased 4%. As of December 2025, Banco Macro's transactional accounts represented approximately 47% of total deposits.

Nicolás Torres: Private sector deposits increased 11% to ARS 1.26 trillion quarter-on-quarter, while public sector deposits decreased 33% or ARS 310.4 billion quarter-on-quarter. The increase in private sector deposits was led by time deposits, which increased 17% or ARS 978.5 billion, while demand deposits increased 5% of ARS 3,308.1 billion quarter-on-quarter. In the quarter, peso deposits increased 3% or ARS 234.9 billion, while US dollar deposits increased 10% or $300 million. On a yearly basis, peso deposits increased 18%, while dollar deposits decreased 4%. As of December 2025, Banco Macro's transactional accounts represented approximately 47% of total deposits.

Speaker #3: The increase in private sector deposits was led by time deposits, which increased 17% or 978.5 billion pesos, while demand deposits increased 5% or 308.1 billion pesos quarter on quarter.

Speaker #3: In the quarter fiscal deposits increased 3% or 234.9 billion pesos, while US dollar deposits increased 10% or 300 million dollars. On a yearly basis, fiscal deposits increased 18%, while dollar deposits decreased 4%.

Speaker #3: As of December 2025, Banco Macro's transactional accounts represented approximately 47% of total deposits. Banco Macro's market share over private deposits as of December 2025 totaled 7.9%, 90 basis points higher than in December 2024.

Nicolás A. Torres: Banco Macro's market share over private deposits as of December 2025 totaled 7.9%, 90 basis points higher than in December 2024. In terms of asset quality, Banco Macro's non-performance total financial ratio reached 3.87%. The coverage ratio measured as total allowance under expected credit loss over non-performing loans under certain bank rules, reached 119.86%.

Nicolás Torres: Banco Macro's market share over private deposits as of December 2025 totaled 7.9%, 90 basis points higher than in December 2024. In terms of asset quality, Banco Macro's non-performance total financial ratio reached 3.87%. The coverage ratio measured as total allowance under expected credit loss over non-performing loans under certain bank rules, reached 119.86%.

Speaker #3: In terms of asset quality, Banco Macro's non-performance total financing ratio reached 3.87%. The coverage ratio measured a total allowance under expected trade losses over non-performing loans, and the central bank rules reached 119.86%.

Speaker #3: Commercial portfolio non-performing loans improved 17 basis points, down to 0.68% from 0.85% in the previous quarter, while consumer portfolio non-performing loans deteriorated 93 basis points in the fourth quarter of 2025 and up to 5.23% from 4.3% in the third quarter of 2025.

Juan Parma: ... commercial portfolio nonperforming loans improved 13 basis points, down to 0.68% from 0.85% in the previous quarter. While consumer portfolio nonperforming loans deteriorated 93 basis points in Q4 2025, and up to 5.23% from 4.3% in Q3 2025. In terms of capitalization, Banco Macro accounted in excess capital of ARS 3.6 trillion, which represented a capital adequacy ratio of 30.6%, and a Tier 1 ratio of 30.6%. The bank's aim is to make the best use of this excess capital. The bank's liquidity remained more than appropriate. Liquid assets to deposit ratio was 73%. Overall, we have accounted for another positive quarter. We continue to show a solid financial position, asset quality remain under control, and closely monitored.

Nicolás Torres: ... commercial portfolio nonperforming loans improved 13 basis points, down to 0.68% from 0.85% in the previous quarter. While consumer portfolio nonperforming loans deteriorated 93 basis points in Q4 2025, and up to 5.23% from 4.3% in Q3 2025. In terms of capitalization, Banco Macro accounted in excess capital of ARS 3.6 trillion, which represented a capital adequacy ratio of 30.6%, and a Tier 1 ratio of 30.6%. The bank's aim is to make the best use of this excess capital. The bank's liquidity remained more than appropriate. Liquid assets to deposit ratio was 73%. Overall, we have accounted for another positive quarter. We continue to show a solid financial position, asset quality remain under control, and closely monitored.We keep on working to improve more our efficiency standards, and we keep our optimized deposit base. At this time, we would like to take the questions you may have.

Speaker #3: In terms of capitalization, Banco Macro accounted in excess capital of 3.6 trillion pesos, which represented a capital adequacy ratio of 30.6% and a tier one ratio of 30.6%.

Speaker #3: The bank's aim is to make the best use of this excess capital. The bank's liquidity remained more than appropriate. Liquid assets total deposit ratio reached 73%.

Speaker #3: Overall, we have accounted for another positive quarter. We continue showing a solid financial position, asset quality remained under control, and closely monitored. We keep on working to improve more our efficiency standards and we keep a well-optimized deposit base.

Juan Parma: We keep on working to improve more our efficiency standards, and we keep our optimized deposit base. At this time, we would like to take the questions you may have.

Speaker #3: At this time, we would like to take the questions you may have.

Speaker #1: Thank you. At this time, we are going up it up for questions and answers. If you would like to ask a question, please press the Q&A button at the bottom of your screen or to ask questions on audio, click on raise hand.

Operator: Thank you. At this time, we are going to open it up for questions and answers. If you would like to ask a question, please press the Q&A button at the bottom of your screen, or to ask questions on audio, click on Raise Hand. You receive a request to activate your microphone. One moment, please, for the first question. Our first question comes from Brian Flores from Citi. Please, Mr. Flores, your microphone is open.

Operator: Thank you. At this time, we are going to open it up for questions and answers. If you would like to ask a question, please press the Q&A button at the bottom of your screen, or to ask questions on audio, click on Raise Hand. You receive a request to activate your microphone. One moment, please, for the first question. Our first question comes from Brian Flores from Citi. Please, Mr. Flores, your microphone is open.

Speaker #1: You then receive a request to activate your microphone one moment, please, for the first question. Our first question comes from Brian Flores from Citi.

Speaker #1: Please, Mr. Flores, your microphone's open.

Brian Flores: Hi. Hi, team. Thank you for the opportunity. I have a first question here on your guidance. Just wanted to know if there's an update on the soft guidance you provided in the last months after the election. I think it was 35% in real terms for loans, 25 in deposits, and low teens in ROE. Just wanted to check if any of these variables in your view have changed. I know it's a very fluid environment in Argentina, just checking on that. A second question, just very quick. We saw strong security gains, recovering from public security.

Brian Flores: Hi. Hi, team. Thank you for the opportunity. I have a first question here on your guidance. Just wanted to know if there's an update on the soft guidance you provided in the last months after the election. I think it was 35% in real terms for loans, 25 in deposits, and low teens in ROE. Just wanted to check if any of these variables in your view have changed. I know it's a very fluid environment in Argentina, just checking on that. A second question, just very quick. We saw strong security gains, recovering from public security. Just wanted to understand how, in your view, would this be considered or how much would this be considered recurring in nature, and how much stemming from the volatility that we had in the election cycle? Thank you.

Speaker #2: Hi. Hi, team. Thank you for the opportunity. I have a first question here on your guidance. Just wanted to know if there's an update on the soft guidance you provided in the last months of the election.

Speaker #2: I think it was 35% in real terms for loans, 25% in deposits, and low teens in ROE. So I just wanted to check if any of these variables in your view have changed.

Speaker #2: I know it's a very fluid environment in Argentina, so just checking on that. And then a second question, just very quick, we saw strong security gains recovering from public securities.

Speaker #2: So I just wanted to understand how, in your view, would this be considered or how much would this be considered recovering in nature and how much stemming from the volatility that we had in the election cycle?

Brian Flores: Just wanted to understand how, in your view, would this be considered or how much would this be considered recurring in nature, and how much stemming from the volatility that we had in the election cycle? Thank you.

Speaker #2: Thank you.

Speaker #3: Hey, Brian. This is Jorge Carniz. How are you? Yeah. So in your first question, yes, we are going to maybe modify a little bit our guidance.

Juan Parma: Hi, Brian. This is Jorge Caliri. How are you? Yes, on your first question, yes, we are going to maybe modify a little bit our guidance. Basically, according to local consensus of economy, are reducing a little bit the real GDP growth for 2026 to levels of between 2.8% to 3%. In addition to that, there is also, the consensus is estimating a higher inflation for 2026, compared to the one that we were working with in Q4 of last year. That was 20%, the new update is 27%. Due to those, I mean, modifications on those two macroeconomic variables, we are also fine-tuning our guidance for a growth for 2026.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Hi, Brian. This is Jorge Caliri. How are you? Yes, on your first question, yes, we are going to maybe modify a little bit our guidance. Basically, according to local consensus of economy, are reducing a little bit the real GDP growth for 2026 to levels of between 2.8% to 3%. In addition to that, there is also, the consensus is estimating a higher inflation for 2026, compared to the one that we were working with in Q4 of last year. That was 20%, the new update is 27%. Due to those, I mean, modifications on those two macroeconomic variables, we are also fine-tuning our guidance for a growth for 2026.

Speaker #3: Basically, according to local consensus of economies, our reducing a little bit the real GDP growth for 2026 to levels of between 2.8 to 3%.

Speaker #3: And also, in addition to that, there is also the consensus is estimating a higher inflation for '26 compared to the one that we were working with in the last quarter of last year that was 20%.

Speaker #3: And now the new update is 27%. So due to those I mean, modifications on those two macroeconomic variables, we are also fine-tuning our guidance for growth for 2026.

Juan Parma: In terms of loans, we're expecting 20% real growth in the calendar year of 2026, and deposit growth of 6% in real terms. As you could see in this press release, we have started to report a kind of reported ROE and ROA, and also an adjusted ROE and ROA due to the restructuring charges that we posted in Q4. We expect some other of this type to come between Q1 and Q2 of 2026. In terms of, I would say, adjusted ROE for 2026, we are working with a level of 8% area. Basically, in terms of ROE and in terms of ROA, close to 1.8% to 2% area, Brian.

Speaker #3: In terms of loans, we're expecting a 20% real growth in the calendar year of '26, and deposit growth of 6% in real terms. Also, as you can see in this press release, we have started to report a kind of reported ROE and ROA, and also an adjusted ROE and ROA, due to the restructuring charges that we posted in the fourth quarter.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: In terms of loans, we're expecting 20% real growth in the calendar year of 2026, and deposit growth of 6% in real terms. As you could see in this press release, we have started to report a kind of reported ROE and ROA, and also an adjusted ROE and ROA due to the restructuring charges that we posted in Q4. We expect some other of this type to come between Q1 and Q2 of 2026. In terms of, I would say, adjusted ROE for 2026, we are working with a level of 8% area. Basically, in terms of ROE and in terms of ROA, close to 1.8% to 2% area, Brian.

Speaker #3: And we expect some other of these types to come between first and second quarter of '26. So in terms of I would say adjusted ROE for '26, we are working with a level of 8% area.

Speaker #3: Basically, in terms of ROE and in terms of ROA, close to 1.8% to 2% area, Brian. So that is answering your first question. In terms of guidance, in terms of your second question, regarding the security gains, I would say that one of the main drivers for the weak quarter that we posted in a soft September was the bad performance of the bond portfolio, related to the increased volatility in the macroeconomic variables due to the election, or the midterm election, that took place on the 27th of October.

Juan Parma: That is answering your first question in terms of guidance. In terms of your second question, in terms of the security gains, I would say that one of the main drivers for the weak quarter that we posted in as of September, was a bad performance of the bond portfolio related to the increased volatility in the macroeconomic variables due to the election that or the midterm election that took place 27 October. What we saw in the Q4 was a reversal of that trend, some declining nominal and real interest rates, and some rebound in the local peso securities that we hold in our portfolio.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: That is answering your first question in terms of guidance. In terms of your second question, in terms of the security gains, I would say that one of the main drivers for the weak quarter that we posted in as of September, was a bad performance of the bond portfolio related to the increased volatility in the macroeconomic variables due to the election that or the midterm election that took place 27 October. What we saw in the Q4 was a reversal of that trend, some declining nominal and real interest rates, and some rebound in the local peso securities that we hold in our portfolio.

Speaker #3: And what we saw in the fourth quarter was a reversal of that trend, some declining nominal and real interest rates and some rebound in the local peso securities that we hold in our portfolio.

Speaker #3: So I would attribute most of this to the repricing that we saw in the fourth quarter. As a kind of an opposite effect compared to the one that we saw in the third quarter.

Juan Parma: I would attribute most of these to the repricing that we saw in Q4 as a kind of a policy effect, compared to the one that we saw in Q3 of last year.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: I would attribute most of these to the repricing that we saw in Q4 as a kind of a policy effect, compared to the one that we saw in Q3 of last year.

Speaker #3: Of last year.

Speaker #2: No, super clear. Just a quick follow-up on maybe the gap between loans and deposits, right? Because it used to be you are seeing basically a change in maybe the savings capacity of people.

Brian Flores: No, super clear. Just a quick follow-up on maybe the gap between loans and deposits, right? It used to be... You are seeing basically a change in maybe the savings capacity of people. If you think maybe this, as you mentioned, this lower or slower GDP is translating into this change in behavior or any color you could give as to why deposits are at this expectation that is maybe significantly lower than the previous base case?

Brian Flores: No, super clear. Just a quick follow-up on maybe the gap between loans and deposits, right? It used to be... You are seeing basically a change in maybe the savings capacity of people. If you think maybe this, as you mentioned, this lower or slower GDP is translating into this change in behavior or any color you could give as to why deposits are at this expectation that is maybe significantly lower than the previous base case?

Speaker #2: If you think maybe this, as you mentioned, this lower or slower GDP is translating into this change in behavior, or any color you could give as to why deposits are at this expectation that is maybe significantly lower than the previous base case.

Speaker #3: Well, first, we continue to hold almost 24% of total assets in terms of securities. That could be used in case of that we need to finance the gap between the increasing loans and deposits, even though that we continue to have a loan-to-deposit ratio of course below 100%.

Juan Parma: Well, first, we continue to hold almost 24% of total assets in terms of securities, that could be used in case of, that we need to finance the gap between the increasing loans and deposits. Even though that we continue to have a loan-to-deposit ratio, of course, below 100%. Even though in relative terms, we are growing or we are expecting to grow more in loans than the deposits, but in absolute terms, the difference is not going to be that much. Besides of that, we are forecasting that for the moment, real interest rates to be slightly positive, and that's why we are not forecasting a big increase in terms of deposits in 2026.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Well, first, we continue to hold almost 24% of total assets in terms of securities, that could be used in case of, that we need to finance the gap between the increasing loans and deposits. Even though that we continue to have a loan-to-deposit ratio, of course, below 100%. Even though in relative terms, we are growing or we are expecting to grow more in loans than the deposits, but in absolute terms, the difference is not going to be that much. Besides of that, we are forecasting that for the moment, real interest rates to be slightly positive, and that's why we are not forecasting a big increase in terms of deposits in 2026.

Speaker #3: So even though in relative terms, we are growing or we are expecting to grow more in loans and in deposits, but in absolute terms, the difference is not going to be that much.

Speaker #3: And besides of that, we are forecasting that the for the moment, real interest rates to be slightly positive. And that's why we are not forecasting a big increase in terms of deposits in 2026.

Speaker #2: No, super clear. Thank you, team.

Brian Flores: No, super clear. Thank you, team.

Brian Flores: No, super clear. Thank you, team.

Speaker #3: You're welcome.

Juan Parma: You're welcome.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: You're welcome.

Speaker #1: Our next question comes from Linsei Shima from Goldman Sachs. Please, Mrs. Shima, your microphone is open.

Operator: Our next question comes from Lindsey Shema from Goldman Sachs. Please, Mrs. Shema, your microphone's open.

Operator: Our next question comes from Lindsey Shema from Goldman Sachs. Please, Mrs. Shema, your microphone's open.

Speaker #4: Hi, team. Thank you for taking my questions. First off, I mean, we saw some continued deterioration in consumer asset quality and also seems like the macro scenario is still a bit tougher.

Lindsey Shema: Hi, team. Thank you for taking my questions. First off, I mean, we saw some continued deterioration in consumer asset quality, and also seems like the macro scenario is still a bit tougher, but that there was some incremental improvement in cost of risk. Maybe just how are the early indicators looking for asset quality, and what makes you feel a little bit more constructive on cost of risk going forward? Or do you see that kind of deterioration coming back? Then for my second question on the political landscape, it seems like labor reform is on track to be enacted, the vote tomorrow. What do you think is next on the administration's agenda? What do you, as a bank, really need to see to give you greater certainty going forward? Thank you.

Lindsey Shema: Hi, team. Thank you for taking my questions. First off, I mean, we saw some continued deterioration in consumer asset quality, and also seems like the macro scenario is still a bit tougher, but that there was some incremental improvement in cost of risk. Maybe just how are the early indicators looking for asset quality, and what makes you feel a little bit more constructive on cost of risk going forward? Or do you see that kind of deterioration coming back? Then for my second question on the political landscape, it seems like labor reform is on track to be enacted, the vote tomorrow. What do you think is next on the administration's agenda? What do you, as a bank, really need to see to give you greater certainty going forward? Thank you.

Speaker #4: But that there was some incremental improvement in cost of risk. So maybe just, how are the early indicators looking for asset quality and what makes you feel a little bit more constructive on cost of risk going forward?

Speaker #4: Or do you see that kind of deterioration coming back? And then for my second question, on the political landscape, it seems like labor reform is on track to be enacted.

Speaker #4: The vote tomorrow, what do you think is next on the administration's agenda? And what do you as a bank really need to see to give you greater certainty going forward?

Speaker #4: Thank you.

Juan Parma: Hi, Lindsey. In terms of your first question, what we are seeing is that the speed of the deterioration of the consumer portfolio has been reduced. As you could see, in terms of cost of risk, we posted slightly below levels of the one that we posted in Q3. In Q1, we are seeing kind of for the moment neutral news. I would say that it's kind of relatively stable in terms of the figures that we are seeing, at least as of January, compared to December. Going forward, we expect to have maybe positive, more positive news by the end of Q1 and Q2 of this year. That's why we are forecasting for 2026, a cost of risk of 5.2%.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Hi, Lindsey. In terms of your first question, what we are seeing is that the speed of the deterioration of the consumer portfolio has been reduced. As you could see, in terms of cost of risk, we posted slightly below levels of the one that we posted in Q3. In Q1, we are seeing kind of for the moment neutral news. I would say that it's kind of relatively stable in terms of the figures that we are seeing, at least as of January, compared to December. Going forward, we expect to have maybe positive, more positive news by the end of Q1 and Q2 of this year. That's why we are forecasting for 2026, a cost of risk of 5.2%.

Speaker #3: Hi, Lindsay. In terms of your first question, what we are seeing is that the speed of the deterioration of the consumer portfolio has been reduced.

Speaker #3: As you could see in terms of cost of risk, we posted slightly below levels of the one that we posted in the third quarter.

Speaker #3: In the first quarter, we are seeing kind of for the moment, neutral news, I would say that it's kind of relatively stable in terms of the figures that we are seeing, at least as of January compared to December.

Speaker #3: However, going forward, we expect to have maybe posted more positive news by the end of the first and second quarters of this year. That's why we are forecasting, for 2026, a cost of risk of 5.2%.

Juan Parma: This is slightly below the 5.6% that we posted in the calendar year of 2025. In terms of, Maybe, Jorge, if I may add to that. This is Juan Parma. We took early action during 2025 by constraining loan origination back from April last year. What we are seeing is that in terms of new vintages and new origination, the performance of the vintages is better than the portfolio as a whole and back to the levels we used to see in 2024. That recomposition of the portfolio with better new origination is what is actually driving the stabilization and positive outlook in terms of cost of credit. Basically, is what we are seeing in the new originations that we tightened up since around April, May last year.

Speaker #3: This is slightly below the 5.6% that we posted in the calendar year of '25. In terms of

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: This is slightly below the 5.6% that we posted in the calendar year of 2025. In terms of, Maybe, Jorge, if I may add to that. This is Juan Parma. We took early action during 2025 by constraining loan origination back from April last year. What we are seeing is that in terms of new vintages and new origination, the performance of the vintages is better than the portfolio as a whole and back to the levels we used to see in 2024. That recomposition of the portfolio with better new origination is what is actually driving the stabilization and positive outlook in terms of cost of credit. Basically, is what we are seeing in the new originations that we tightened up since around April, May last year.

Speaker #1: Of . Maybe , if I may add to that , this is Juan Palma . We took early action during 2025 by constraining the loan origination back from April last year .

Speaker #1: What we are seeing is that, in terms of new vintages and new origination, the performance of vintages is better than the portfolio as a whole.

Speaker #1: And back to the levels we used to see in 2024 . So that recomposition of the portfolio with better new origination is what is actually driving the destabilization and positive outlook in terms of cost of credit , basically is is what we are seeing in the new originations that we up since Around April May last year .

Speaker #1: Sorry . That's okay . In terms of your second question , I would say that in the last three , four months , the government , I would say that is leading the agenda , managing all the the political issues going on like introducing the the labor reform at the end of 25 .

Juan Parma: Sorry, Jorge. No, it's okay. Lindsey, in terms of your second question, I would say that in the last three, four months, the government, I would say that is leading the agenda, managing all the political issues going on, like introducing the labor reform at the end of 2025, and that was approved by the Congress in January, by deputies in general, and in February, deputies in particular, and also expected to have the Senate to approve it. Also, we expect a tax reform to come at some point in the next month or so.

Juan Parma: Sorry, Jorge.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: No, it's okay.

Juan Parma: Lindsey, in terms of your second question, I would say that in the last three, four months, the government, I would say that is leading the agenda, managing all the political issues going on, like introducing the labor reform at the end of 2025, and that was approved by the Congress in January, by deputies in general, and in February, deputies in particular, and also expected to have the Senate to approve it. Also, we expect a tax reform to come at some point in the next month or so.

Speaker #1: And that was approved by the Congress in January by deputies in general . And in February , deputies in particular , and also expected to have the Senate to approve it .

Speaker #1: Also , we expect a tax reform to come at some point in the next month or so . I would say that next Sunday that is going to be the 1st of March , going to open the ordinary session of the Congress , and it's going to , in our view , give a speech on the coming reforms or projects to be sent to the Congress .

Juan Parma: I would say that next Sunday, that is going to be 1 March, going to open the ordinary session of the Congress, and it's going to, in our view, give a speech on the coming reforms or projects to be sent to the Congress. I think that we have to be in clear alert on his speech next Sunday in order to have a more, I would say, better landscape on what's going to be on the agenda of the government in 2026. I would say, adding to Jorge, that what we have seen after last year, a very positive outcome in terms of the midterm elections, is the government using its political capital and its majority in Congress.

Juan Parma: I would say that next Sunday, that is going to be 1 March, going to open the ordinary session of the Congress, and it's going to, in our view, give a speech on the coming reforms or projects to be sent to the Congress. I think that we have to be in clear alert on his speech next Sunday in order to have a more, I would say, better landscape on what's going to be on the agenda of the government in 2026. I would say, adding to Jorge, that what we have seen after last year, a very positive outcome in terms of the midterm elections, is the government using its political capital and its majority in Congress.

Speaker #1: So I think that we have to be in clear alert on his speech next Sunday in order to have a more , I would say , better landscape of what's going to what's going to be on the agenda of the government in 2026 .

Speaker #1: But I would say adding to that , what we have seen after last year , very positive outcome in terms of the midterm elections is the government using its political capital and it's majority in in , in Congress to push on their strategy to keep it tight monetary policy and a tight FX policy focusing on reducing inflation while maintaining fiscal surplus and solving for the competitiveness of the economy by deregulation .

Juan Parma: strategy to keep a tight monetary policy and a tight FX policy, focusing on reducing inflation while maintaining fiscal surplus and solving for the competitiveness of the economy by deregulation. That's their strategy. They will try to improve the competitiveness of the economy by reducing the Argentina costs, right? Both in fiscal terms with the tax reform, labor costs with the labor reform, using their renewed political capital after the midterm elections. The recent approval that needs to be finally validated by Congress this Friday on the labor reform is a demonstration of that.

Juan Parma: strategy to keep a tight monetary policy and a tight FX policy, focusing on reducing inflation while maintaining fiscal surplus and solving for the competitiveness of the economy by deregulation. That's their strategy. They will try to improve the competitiveness of the economy by reducing the Argentina costs, right? Both in fiscal terms with the tax reform, labor costs with the labor reform, using their renewed political capital after the midterm elections. The recent approval that needs to be finally validated by Congress this Friday on the labor reform is a demonstration of that.

Speaker #1: So that's their strategy . They will try to improve the competitiveness of the economy by reducing the Argentina cost . Right . Both in fiscal terms with the tax reform , labor costs , with the labor reform , using their renewed political capital after the midterm elections , the recent approval that needs to be finally validated by Congress this Friday on the on the labor reform is the of that .

Speaker #1: And as Jorge was mentioning , we expect President in his opening speech of the Congress session for this year to outline what is his agenda in terms of pushing reforms using this political capital through the year .

Juan Parma: As Jorge was mentioning, we expect President Milei, in his opening speech of the Congress session for this year, to outline what is his agenda in terms of pushing reforms, using this political capital through the year, and we expect that to continue. There is one comment that I think is relevant for the banking industry, in the labor reform, by the way, which is that as part of the labor law, there was a relevant article that defined whether it's banks or fintech wallets are the ones to pay salaries. It was a positive outcome for the banking industry because the law confirmed that the only way to pay salaries or pension payments in Argentina is only through bank accounts, not through wallets or digital accounts.

Juan Parma: As Jorge was mentioning, we expect President Milei, in his opening speech of the Congress session for this year, to outline what is his agenda in terms of pushing reforms, using this political capital through the year, and we expect that to continue. There is one comment that I think is relevant for the banking industry, in the labor reform, by the way, which is that as part of the labor law, there was a relevant article that defined whether it's banks or fintech wallets are the ones to pay salaries. It was a positive outcome for the banking industry because the law confirmed that the only way to pay salaries or pension payments in Argentina is only through bank accounts, not through wallets or digital accounts.That's a good outcome for the bank and for the industry as a whole.

Speaker #1: And we expect that to continue There's one comment that I think is relevant for the banking industry in the labor reform . By the way , which is that as part of the labor law , there was a relevant article that defined whether if banks or fintech wallets are the ones to , to to pay salaries .

Speaker #1: And it was a positive outcome for the banking industry because the , the law confirmed that the only way to pay salaries or patient contributions , pension payments in Argentina is only through bank accounts , not through wallets or digital accounts .

Speaker #1: So that's a good outcome for the bank and for the industry as a whole

Juan Parma: That's a good outcome for the bank and for the industry as a whole.

Speaker #2: Great. Very clear. Thank you so much.

Lindsey Shema: Great. Very clear. Thank you so much.

Lindsey Shema: Great. Very clear. Thank you so much.

Speaker #3: Our next question comes from Yuri Fernandes from JP Morgan . Please , Mr. Fernandes , your microphone is open .

Operator: Our next question comes from Yuri Fernandes from JP Morgan. Please, Mr. Fernandes, your microphone is open.

Operator: Our next question comes from Yuri Fernandes from JP Morgan. Please, Mr. Fernandes, your microphone is open.

Speaker #4: Thank you very much . And congrats on the profitability recovery in the quarter . I would like to understand a little bit just the mark to market on the securities , like the trading , the trading games like like this line is is always volatile , right .

Yuri Fernandes: Thank you very much, and congrats on the profitability recovery in the quarter. I would like to understand a little bit just the mark to mark on the securities, like the trading gains. Like, this line is always volatile, right? It's hard to predict. If you can help us understand how to better think this line, how to better model, and what drove, you know, like, the probably the sovereign bond in Argentina. I would like to understand also what drove the gains during this quarter? Then I can ask a second quarter regarding deposits. I guess I heard well, the 6% real growth. It sounds a little bit low, right?

Yuri Fernandes: Thank you very much, and congrats on the profitability recovery in the quarter. I would like to understand a little bit just the mark to mark on the securities, like the trading gains. Like, this line is always volatile, right? It's hard to predict. If you can help us understand how to better think this line, how to better model, and what drove, you know, like, the probably the sovereign bond in Argentina. I would like to understand also what drove the gains during this quarter? Then I can ask a second quarter regarding deposits. I guess I heard well, the 6% real growth. It sounds a little bit low, right?

Speaker #4: And it's hard to predict . But if you can help us understand how to better think this line , how to better model and what drove like the probably the sovereign bond in Argentina .

Speaker #4: But I would like to understand also what what drove the gains during this quarter . And then I can ask a second quarter regarding deposits .

Speaker #4: I guess I heard , well , the 6% real growth , it's sounds a little bit low , right ? I think expectations for the industry was that the deposit would still grow .

Yuri Fernandes: I think expectations for the industry was that deposit would still grow, I don't know, 20, 25 in real terms. My question is how to grow loans, right, with such a low, potential growth of deposits? If you are seeing any change on reserve requirements? Just try to understand a little bit, you know, like the message on liabilities. Thank you.

Yuri Fernandes: I think expectations for the industry was that deposit would still grow, I don't know, 20, 25 in real terms. My question is how to grow loans, right, with such a low, potential growth of deposits? If you are seeing any change on reserve requirements? Just try to understand a little bit, you know, like the message on liabilities. Thank you.

Speaker #4: I don't know , 2025 , in real terms . So my question is how to grow loans , right . With such a low potential growth of deposits , if you are seeing any change on reserve requirements .

Speaker #4: So just trying to understand a little bit , you know , like the message on liabilities . Thank you

Speaker #1: Thank you . I will start by your second question . Yeah . Basically I mean , I think I answered before why we're expecting a 6% real growth in in deposits on the fine tuning of macroeconomic variables and also on a slightly narrower positive real interest rate , especially for 26 , even though that we are expecting to grow loans by 20% in real terms , it is slightly below what we grew our loan book in in 2525 was a great year , 40% in real terms was a great year and again we have a as I mentioned before , this securities portfolio that indicates that loans are growing above what we are expecting can be used to to finance the gap .

Juan Parma: Hi, Yuri Fernandes. I will start with, by your second question. Yeah, basically, I mean, I think I answered before why we are expecting a 6% real growth in deposits on the fine-tuning of macroeconomic variables and also on a slightly narrower positive real interest rate, especially for 2026. Even though that, we are expecting to grow loans by 20% in real terms, it is slightly below what we grew our loan book in 2025. 2025 was a great year, 40% in real terms was a great year. Again, we have, as I mentioned before, this securities portfolio that indicates that loans are growing above what we're expecting can be used to finance the gap, if deposits are growing at 6 and not growing more than that.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Hi, Yuri Fernandes. I will start with, by your second question. Yeah, basically, I mean, I think I answered before why we are expecting a 6% real growth in deposits on the fine-tuning of macroeconomic variables and also on a slightly narrower positive real interest rate, especially for 2026. Even though that, we are expecting to grow loans by 20% in real terms, it is slightly below what we grew our loan book in 2025. 2025 was a great year, 40% in real terms was a great year. Again, we have, as I mentioned before, this securities portfolio that indicates that loans are growing above what we're expecting can be used to finance the gap, if deposits are growing at 6 and not growing more than that.

Speaker #1: If deposits are growing at six and not growing more than that in terms of your first question , it is not very easy to answer .

Juan Parma: In terms of your first question, it is not very easy to answer. I would say that because we have a combination of, I would say 68% of our bonds that are tied to inflation and another 32% which are tied to variable rates, I would say that the best way to model this is what you are expecting for domestic prices or, I mean, for inflation or the wholesale rate going forward. That is, it's going to be maintained. You are going to see a kind of gradual and steady income on a quarterly basis on our bond portfolio. However, if you are expecting some volatility there, on ups and downs, that is going to affect the pace of the bond gains on a quarterly basis.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: In terms of your first question, it is not very easy to answer. I would say that because we have a combination of, I would say 68% of our bonds that are tied to inflation and another 32% which are tied to variable rates, I would say that the best way to model this is what you are expecting for domestic prices or, I mean, for inflation or the wholesale rate going forward. That is, it's going to be maintained. You are going to see a kind of gradual and steady income on a quarterly basis on our bond portfolio. However, if you are expecting some volatility there, on ups and downs, that is going to affect the pace of the bond gains on a quarterly basis.

Speaker #1: I would say that because we have a combination of I would say 68% of our bonds that are tied to inflation , and another 32% which are tied to a variable rates .

Speaker #1: I would say that The best way to model this is , is what you are expecting for a domestic prices or I mean for inflation or the wholesale rates going forward .

Speaker #1: So, that is going to be maintained. You are going to see a kind of gradual and steady income on a quarterly basis on our bond portfolio.

Speaker #1: However , if you are expecting some volatility , there on ups and downs , that is going to affect the pace of of the bond gains on a quarterly basis

Speaker #4: Thank you . Thank you very much . Super clear .

Yuri Fernandes: Thank you. Thank you very much. Super clear.

Yuri Fernandes: Thank you. Thank you very much. Super clear.

Speaker #1: Welcome .

Juan Parma: Welcome.

Juan Parma: Welcome.

Speaker #3: Our next question comes from Pedro Duque from Itau BBA . Please , Mr. Duque , your microphone is open

Operator: Our next question comes from Pedro Leduc from Itaú BBA. Please, Mr. Liduque, your microphone is open.

Operator: Our next question comes from Pedro Leduc from Itaú BBA. Please, Mr. Liduque, your microphone is open.

Speaker #5: Hi guys . Thank you very much for for taking my question . We see Nims recovering almost halfway here at the same time , we're seeing still some some credit quality pressures .

Pedro Leduc: Hi, guys. Thank you very much for taking my question. We see NIMs, you know, recovering almost halfway here. At the same time, we're seeing still some credit quality pressures. Question to you is when we think about, you know, risk-adjusted NIMs for 2026, I know the average for 2025 is a bit weird to look at, but if you could help us understand a bit if the Q4 is a good starting point for us to build upon for risk-adjusted NIMs, and what the drivers are for us to look at this line in 2025, 2026. Thank you.

Pedro Leduc: Hi, guys. Thank you very much for taking my question. We see NIMs, you know, recovering almost halfway here. At the same time, we're seeing still some credit quality pressures. Question to you is when we think about, you know, risk-adjusted NIMs for 2026, I know the average for 2025 is a bit weird to look at, but if you could help us understand a bit if the Q4 is a good starting point for us to build upon for risk-adjusted NIMs, and what the drivers are for us to look at this line in 2025, 2026. Thank you.

Speaker #5: Question to you is when when we think about , you know , risk adjusted names for 2026 and or the average for 2025 is is a bit weird to look at , but if you could help us understand a bit , if the fourth quarter is a good starting point for us to to build upon , for for risk adjusted Nims .

Speaker #5: And what the drivers are for us to look at this line in 2025, 2026. Thank you.

Speaker #1: Hi , Pedro , I would say that as a starting point , the fourth quarter is a kind of a reasonable measure going forward .

Juan Parma: Hi, Pedro. I would say that as a starting point, the Q4 is a kind of a reasonable measure. Going forward, we're expecting a little bit of pressure on rates and maybe on margins a little bit. We finished 2025 with a net interest margin on the area, slightly about 20% on 21.5% approx. We're seeing this maybe in the level of 20% for 2026, and as an opposite effect, we are seeing slightly below cost of risk in 2026 compared to 2025. As a overall, I would say that slight compression on the NIM adjusted by credit quality in 2026.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Hi, Pedro. I would say that as a starting point, the Q4 is a kind of a reasonable measure. Going forward, we're expecting a little bit of pressure on rates and maybe on margins a little bit. We finished 2025 with a net interest margin on the area, slightly about 20% on 21.5% approx. We're seeing this maybe in the level of 20% for 2026, and as an opposite effect, we are seeing slightly below cost of risk in 2026 compared to 2025. As a overall, I would say that slight compression on the NIM adjusted by credit quality in 2026.

Speaker #1: We expecting a little bit of pressure on on on rates and maybe on margins a little bit . So we finished 25 with a net interest margin on the area slightly above 20 and 21.5 approx .

Speaker #1: We're seeing this maybe in the level of 20 for for 26 . And as a as an opposite effect , we are seeing slightly below cost of risk in 26 compared to to 25 .

Speaker #1: So as overall I would say that slight compression on the Nim adjusted by by credit quality in 26 .

Speaker #5: Versus the average of 25, not. But from the starting point, not.

Pedro Leduc: Versus the average of 25? No, but from the starting point.

Pedro Leduc: Versus the average of 25? No, but from the starting point.

Juan Parma: Yeah, from the starting point. Yes.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Yeah, from the starting point. Yes.

Speaker #1: From the starting point . Yes .

Speaker #5: Okay okay . Appreciate it . Thank you

Pedro Leduc: Okay. Okay, appreciate it. Thank you.

Pedro Leduc: Okay. Okay, appreciate it. Thank you.

Juan Parma: Welcome.

Pedro Offenhanden: Welcome.

Speaker #3: Our next question comes from Pedro . Often from Latin securities please , Mr. Pedro , your microphone is open .

Operator: Our next question comes from Pedro Offenhanden, from Lighting Securities. Please, Mr. Pedro, your microphone is open.

Operator: Our next question comes from Pedro Offenhanden, from Lighting Securities. Please, Mr. Pedro, your microphone is open.

Speaker #6: Hi , team . Thank you for the call . I wanted to ask on you mentioned additional personal expenses in the following quarters .

Pedro Offenhanden: Hi, team. Thank you for the call. I wanted to ask on, you mentioned additional personal expenses in the following quarters. Could you help us to frame this remaining impact as how much of the total restructuring cost were already recognized this quarter?

Pedro Offenhanden: Hi, team. Thank you for the call. I wanted to ask on, you mentioned additional personal expenses in the following quarters. Could you help us to frame this remaining impact as how much of the total restructuring cost were already recognized this quarter?

Speaker #6: Could you help us to frame this remaining impact as how much of the total restructuring costs were already recognized this quarter?

Speaker #1: So maybe you can talk about the restructuring costs . We booked in 25 , and how much of that is still to benefit 26 .

Juan Parma: Maybe you can talk, Jorge, about the restructuring costs we booked in 2025, and how much of that is still to benefit 2026. We can talk about what to expect going forward. Maybe I can take both of them. From the ARS 82 billion that we booked in 2025, concentrated in the Q4, there are still ARS 36 billion of that will help personnel exits that will benefit 2026. In terms of additional restructuring costs, you should expect similar numbers for the following quarters. You should note that the condition for us to report an expense as a restructuring cost is one that will take out operational expenses on a permanent basis. The likes of reduction in personnel that won't be replaced, that's what we define by restructuring costs.

Juan Parma: Maybe you can talk, Jorge, about the restructuring costs we booked in 2025, and how much of that is still to benefit 2026. We can talk about what to expect going forward. Maybe I can take both of them. From the ARS 82 billion that we booked in 2025, concentrated in the Q4, there are still ARS 36 billion of that will help personnel exits that will benefit 2026. In terms of additional restructuring costs, you should expect similar numbers for the following quarters. You should note that the condition for us to report an expense as a restructuring cost is one that will take out operational expenses on a permanent basis. The likes of reduction in personnel that won't be replaced, that's what we define by restructuring costs.

Speaker #1: And we can talk about what do we expect going forward . Maybe I can take both of them from the $82 billion that we booked in 25 , concentrated in the fourth quarter .

Speaker #1: There's still 36 billion of that that will help personnel exits that will benefit . 26 in terms of additional restructuring costs , you should expect similar , similar numbers for the following quarters But you should note that the condition for us to report and expense as a restructuring cost is one that will take out operational a permanent basis .

Speaker #1: So the likes of reduction in personal debt won't be replaced . That's what we defined by by restructuring costs . That's why in the following quarters , you should expect us to continue reporting with the same type of language being consistent to the point that restructuring costs is cost to take us out .

Juan Parma: That's why in the following quarters, you should expect us to continue reporting with the same type of language, being consistent to the point that restructuring cost is cost to take us out, cost on a permanent basis. In that sense, reporting or talking about reported and adjusted results, and reported and adjusted ROEs. We expect to continue in the following quarters with this action, which we believe is positive, because it will end the year with a lower recurrent cost base for the company. Back to the previous point, compensating the margin compression that Jorge was talking about. That's why we are doing it. As inflation goes down, rates go down, margins compress, we are reacting on the cost side to compensate this effect.

Juan Parma: That's why in the following quarters, you should expect us to continue reporting with the same type of language, being consistent to the point that restructuring cost is cost to take us out, cost on a permanent basis. In that sense, reporting or talking about reported and adjusted results, and reported and adjusted ROEs. We expect to continue in the following quarters with this action, which we believe is positive, because it will end the year with a lower recurrent cost base for the company. Back to the previous point, compensating the margin compression that Jorge was talking about. That's why we are doing it. As inflation goes down, rates go down, margins compress, we are reacting on the cost side to compensate this effect.

Speaker #1: Costs on a permanent basis . And in that , in that sense . Reporting or talking about reported and adjusted results and reported and adjusted are always we expect to continue in the following quarters with this , with this action , which we believe is positive because it will end the year , with a with a lower recurrent cost base for the company and back to the previous point , compensating the margin , compression that Jorge was talking about .

Speaker #1: That's why we are doing it as inflation goes down , rates go down , margins compress . We are reacting on the cost side to to compensate this , this effect

Speaker #6: Okay. Super clear. Thank you very much.

Pedro Offenhanden: Okay, super clear. Thank you very much.

Pedro Offenhanden: Okay, super clear. Thank you very much.

Speaker #3: Our next question comes from Carlos Gomez-lopez from HSBC . Please , Mr. Carlos , your microphone is open

Operator: Our next question comes from Carlos T. Gomez Lopez, from HSBC. Please, Mr. Carlos, your microphone is open.

Operator: Our next question comes from Carlos T. Gomez Lopez, from HSBC. Please, Mr. Carlos, your microphone is open.

Speaker #7: Now okay . Thank you . Thank you for the call . First to confirm what you said earlier , which is that adjusting for this restructuring charges , you think that something like an 8% ROE for the year is realistic ?

Pedro Leduc: Now it is. Okay, thank you. Thank you for the call. First, to confirm what you said earlier, which is that, adjusting for the ex- restructuring charges, you think that something like an 80% ROE for the year is realistic. Second, I would like to know if you have any update on your, you know, exciting acquisition of Personal Pay. Any update that you can give us versus the call that you had 2 or 3 weeks ago? Finally, when you look at loan growth, I mean, it has been coming down, and down, and down, and I mean, you are already giving us the expectation that it will be at 20%, but actually 20% is an improvement from where we are today.

Carlos Gomez-Lopez: Now it is. Okay, thank you. Thank you for the call. First, to confirm what you said earlier, which is that, adjusting for the ex- restructuring charges, you think that something like an 80% ROE for the year is realistic. Second, I would like to know if you have any update on your, you know, exciting acquisition of Personal Pay. Any update that you can give us versus the call that you had 2 or 3 weeks ago? Finally, when you look at loan growth, I mean, it has been coming down, and down, and down, and I mean, you are already giving us the expectation that it will be at 20%, but actually 20% is an improvement from where we are today. When do you see the trend breaking and starting to see some more activity in the system? Thank you.

Speaker #7: Second , I would like to know if you have any update on your exciting acquisition of personal pay , any update that you can give us versus the call that you had 2 or 3 weeks ago .

Speaker #7: And finally , when you look at loan growth , I mean , it has been coming down and down and down . And I mean , you are already giving us the expectation that it will be at 20% , but actually 20% is an improvement from where we are today .

Speaker #7: When do you see the trend breaking and starting to see some more activity in the system? Thank you.

Pedro Leduc: When do you see the trend breaking and starting to see some more activity in the system? Thank you.

Speaker #8: Thank you Alex . You , on the first question . Yes , we think that including all these restructuring charges and all the guidance in terms of growth in both loan deposits , etc.

Juan Parma: Hi, Carlos. On the first question, yes, we think that including all these recycling charges and all the guidance in terms of growth in both loan deposits, et cetera, we are expecting to deliver an adjusted ROE in the area of 8% in 2026. Going to the third question, I mean, our main business is to lend money, and of course, we would like to lend as much money as we can, of course, considering credit risk and all that. Of course, what we are not seeing for the moment is the economy growing at very high rates. The guidance that we are giving is like between maintaining share and gaining a little bit of basis points in share.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Hi, Carlos. On the first question, yes, we think that including all these recycling charges and all the guidance in terms of growth in both loan deposits, et cetera, we are expecting to deliver an adjusted ROE in the area of 8% in 2026. Going to the third question, I mean, our main business is to lend money, and of course, we would like to lend as much money as we can, of course, considering credit risk and all that. Of course, what we are not seeing for the moment is the economy growing at very high rates. The guidance that we are giving is like between maintaining share and gaining a little bit of basis points in share.

Speaker #8: , we are expecting to to deliver an adjusted ROE in the area of 80% in 26 . I'm going to the third question .

Speaker #8: I mean , the our main business is to lend money . And of course we would like to to lend as much money as we can .

Speaker #8: Of course , considering credit risk and all that . But of , what we are not seeing for the moment is the economy growing at very high rates .

Speaker #8: So the guidance that we are giving is like between maintaining share and getting a little bit of basis points in share , we are not reducing our share in in in terms of loans .

Juan Parma: We are not reducing our share in terms of loans, and you can see in the quarter that we reported, that we are growing the shares in both loans and deposits. The idea is to continue in that path going forward, but of course, we need the macroeconomy of Argentina to push harder in order to see a high level of loan growth. In terms of Personal Pay, I can comment on that, Jorge. Thank you.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: We are not reducing our share in terms of loans, and you can see in the quarter that we reported, that we are growing the shares in both loans and deposits. The idea is to continue in that path going forward, but of course, we need the macroeconomy of Argentina to push harder in order to see a high level of loan growth. In terms of Personal Pay, I can comment on that, Jorge. Thank you.

Speaker #8: And you can see in the quarter that we reported that we are growing the shares in both clothes and and deposits . So the idea is to continue in that in that path going forward .

Speaker #8: But of course we need the macro economy of Argentina to , to push harder in order to see a higher level of , of loan growth in terms of personal pay .

Speaker #1: I can comment on that . Okay . Thank you . Okay . Yeah . We announced the acquisition of a 50% of the of personal pay , which is telecoms wallet .

Pedro Offenhanden: Okay.

Carlos Gomez-Lopez: Okay.

Juan Parma: We announced the acquisition of 50% of Personal Pay, which is Telecom's wallet. This was a cash-in transaction, so all our equity investment went into the company, the value of the company. This will be built as a Banking as a Service business, where we will, on one hand, work on engaging the around 30 million customers that Telecom have to use the wallet, and then do financial intermediation with a Banking as a Service model.

Juan Parma: We announced the acquisition of 50% of Personal Pay, which is Telecom's wallet. This was a cash-in transaction, so all our equity investment went into the company, the value of the company. This will be built as a Banking as a Service business, where we will, on one hand, work on engaging the around 30 million customers that Telecom have to use the wallet, and then do financial intermediation with a Banking as a Service model.

Speaker #1: This was a cash in transaction . So all our equity investment went into the company to develop the company . This will be built a bank as a service business where we will on one hand work on engaging the around 30 million customers that telecom have to use the wallet and then do financial intermediation with a bank as a service model .

Juan Parma: As I think I explained, when we talked about this with some of you, in the specific call we had on Personal Pay about three weeks or four weeks ago, we have the option to do this through Banco Macro or do this through an existing or a new subsidiary of Banco Macro. We are considering those options while we build the technology and the services to connect the wallet with the Banking as a Service. More to come on this front, and we will update you accordingly once we know how exactly this Banking as a Service model will be built.

Speaker #1: As I think I've explained when we talked about this with some of you in the specific call we had on personal pay, about three or four weeks ago, we have the option to do this through Banco Macro S.A. or do this through an existing or a new subsidiary of Banco Macro S.A.

Juan Parma: As I think I explained, when we talked about this with some of you, in the specific call we had on Personal Pay about three weeks or four weeks ago, we have the option to do this through Banco Macro or do this through an existing or a new subsidiary of Banco Macro. We are considering those options while we build the technology and the services to connect the wallet with the Banking as a Service. More to come on this front, and we will update you accordingly once we know how exactly this Banking as a Service model will be built.

Speaker #1: So we are considering those options while we build the technology and the services to connect the wallet with the bank . As a service .

Speaker #1: So more to come on this front . And we will update you accordingly . Once we know how exactly this bank as a service model will be built

Speaker #7: Thank you Juan . Thank you Jorge .

Pedro Offenhanden: Thank you, Juan. Thank you, Jorge.

Carlos Gomez-Lopez: Thank you, Juan. Thank you, Jorge.

Speaker #1: Welcome .

Juan Parma: Welcome.

Juan Parma: Welcome.

Speaker #3: Our next question comes from Marcus Seru from Algeria . Please , Mr. Seru , your microphone is open . Hi .

Operator: Our next question comes from Marco Serru from Allaria. Please, Mr. Serru, your microphone is open.

Operator: Our next question comes from Marco Serru from Allaria. Please, Mr. Serru, your microphone is open.

Marco Serru: Hi, thank you for the presentation. I wanted to ask, regarding the restructuring, if you have any target for headcount and for number of branches by the end of 2026, which is the impact in ROE because of these restructuring charges?

Marco Serru: Hi, thank you for the presentation. I wanted to ask, regarding the restructuring, if you have any target for headcount and for number of branches by the end of 2026, which is the impact in ROE because of these restructuring charges?

Speaker #9: Thank you for the presentation. I wanted to ask regarding the restructuration if you have any target for headcount and for number of branches.

Speaker #9: By the end of 2026 , and which is the impact in ROE because of this , Restructuration charges

Speaker #8: In I would say that in terms of both headcount and branches , we're expecting a reduction in both similar levels and the one that we saw in in 25 .

Juan Parma: I would say that in terms of both headcounts and branches, we're expecting a reduction in both, similar level than the one that we saw in 2025, just to give you some guidance there. I would say that approx, the impact on ROE in terms of these restructuring charges are approximately 3 percentage points. That is what we are calculating on 2026, on the impact on restructuring charges on ROE.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: I would say that in terms of both headcounts and branches, we're expecting a reduction in both, similar level than the one that we saw in 2025, just to give you some guidance there. I would say that approx, the impact on ROE in terms of these restructuring charges are approximately 3 percentage points. That is what we are calculating on 2026, on the impact on restructuring charges on ROE.

Speaker #8: Just to give you some , some guidance , there . And I would say that approx . The impact on ROE in terms of this restructuring charges are approximately three percentage points .

Speaker #8: That is what we are calculating on , on 26 , on the impact on restructuring charges , on on ROE

Speaker #9: Okay , so just to check reported are we will be around 5% then . Right .

Marco Serru: Okay. Just to check, reported ROE will be around 5% then, right?

Marco Serru: Okay. Just to check, reported ROE will be around 5% then, right?

Speaker #8: Approximately in the area of five and the and the adjusted in the area of eight .

Juan Parma: Approximately in the area of five, and the adjusted in the area of eight.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Approximately in the area of five, and the adjusted in the area of eight.

Speaker #9: Thank you .

Marco Serru: Thank you.

Marco Serru: Thank you.

Speaker #1: Welcome

Juan Parma: Welcome.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Welcome.

Speaker #3: Our next question comes from Moshe Cattarossi from Adcap. Please, Mr. Cattarossi, your microphone is open.

Operator: Our next question comes from Matías Cattaruzzi from AdCap. Please, Mr. Cattaruzzi, your microphone is open.

Operator: Our next question comes from Matías Cattaruzzi from AdCap. Please, Mr. Cattaruzzi, your microphone is open.

Speaker #10: Hi . I wanted to ask you a question about the recent rise in dollar liquidity in the system as it improved . How are you thinking about the possibility of gradually expanding USD lending beyond traditional dollar generating clients Under what conditions would macro feel comfortable lending dollars to non dollar earners ?

Matías Cattaruzzi: Hi. I wanted to ask you a question about the recent rise in dollar liquidity in the system. As it improved, how are you thinking about the possibility of gradually expanding USD lending beyond traditional dollar-generating clients? Under what conditions would Macro feel comfortable lending dollars to non-dollar earners, if at all?

Matías Cattaruzzi: Hi. I wanted to ask you a question about the recent rise in dollar liquidity in the system. As it improved, how are you thinking about the possibility of gradually expanding USD lending beyond traditional dollar-generating clients? Under what conditions would Macro feel comfortable lending dollars to non-dollar earners, if at all?

Speaker #10: If at all

Speaker #1: So I will answer from the bank's perspective . Then there is the the question which is around the enablement of this , which is a question around regulation .

Juan Parma: I will answer from the bank's perspective. There is the question, which is around the enablement of this, which is a question around regulation. As I, as I listen to your question, I understand you're well-versed on the regulation is today, so let me start by that in the benefit of others that may be not that familiar with it, in case that's the case. Today, in Argentina, you can only lend dollar from depositors to clients that have their revenue streams in dollars, so basically exporters. That limits your ability to deploy dollar deposits to only those type of customers. With your own dollars, not the dollars from depositors, but the dollars from the bank, you can do, you can lend to anyone.

Juan Parma: I will answer from the bank's perspective. There is the question, which is around the enablement of this, which is a question around regulation. As I, as I listen to your question, I understand you're well-versed on the regulation is today, so let me start by that in the benefit of others that may be not that familiar with it, in case that's the case. Today, in Argentina, you can only lend dollar from depositors to clients that have their revenue streams in dollars, so basically exporters. That limits your ability to deploy dollar deposits to only those type of customers. With your own dollars, not the dollars from depositors, but the dollars from the bank, you can do, you can lend to anyone.

Speaker #1: So as I , as I listen to your question , I understand your well versed on how the regulation is today . So let me start by that .

Speaker #1: In the benefit of others , that may be not that familiar with it . In case that's the case today in Argentina , you can only lend dollar from depositors to clients that have their revenue streams in dollars .

Speaker #1: So basically exporters so that limits your ability to deploy dollar deposits to only those type of customers with your own dollars , not the dollar from depositors , but the dollars from the bank .

Speaker #1: You can do you can lend to anyone . The reality is that if you take the total deposits in the system denominated in dollars , they moved from being one fourth of total deposits measured all in dollars 25% to now 37% .

Juan Parma: The reality is that if you take the total deposits in the system denominated in dollars, they move from being one-fourth of total deposits, measured all in dollars, 25%, to now 27%. There is an advancement of dollar-denominated deposits in the total deposits of the banking system as a whole. With this limitation, eventually, this creates a bottleneck because you cannot deploy those deposits. The government is exploring alternatives to evolve from that situation. If that was the case, and I cannot say when and if this will happen, because this depends on a change of regulation, and I cannot speak to that, we are prepared to lend.

Juan Parma: The reality is that if you take the total deposits in the system denominated in dollars, they move from being one-fourth of total deposits, measured all in dollars, 25%, to now 27%. There is an advancement of dollar-denominated deposits in the total deposits of the banking system as a whole. With this limitation, eventually, this creates a bottleneck because you cannot deploy those deposits. The government is exploring alternatives to evolve from that situation. If that was the case, and I cannot say when and if this will happen, because this depends on a change of regulation, and I cannot speak to that, we are prepared to lend.

Speaker #1: So there is an advancement of dollar denominated deposits in the total deposits of the banking system as a whole . With this limitation , eventually this creates a bottleneck because you cannot deploy those those deposits .

Speaker #1: So the government is exploring are alternatives to to evolve from that situation . If that was the case , and I cannot say when and if this will happen , because this depends on a change on regulation .

Speaker #1: And I cannot speak to that . We are prepared to lend because it will be if the regulation changes , then it will be up to each bank to define the appetite , to use that space and lend their their dollar capacity .

Juan Parma: If the regulation changes, then it will be up to each bank to define the appetite to use that space and lend their dollar capacity. We are bullish on that. We believe that we can work with high-quality customers, both on the commercial segment and on the individual segment to deploy that lending, that dollar lending capacity. We believe that if that regulation evolves, allowing this to happen, this will turn into something positive for the bank, because we are in the bullish side of the market regarding that. We depend on the regulation to change or to evolve, to take advantage of that opportunity.

Juan Parma: If the regulation changes, then it will be up to each bank to define the appetite to use that space and lend their dollar capacity. We are bullish on that. We believe that we can work with high-quality customers, both on the commercial segment and on the individual segment to deploy that lending, that dollar lending capacity. We believe that if that regulation evolves, allowing this to happen, this will turn into something positive for the bank, because we are in the bullish side of the market regarding that. We depend on the regulation to change or to evolve, to take advantage of that opportunity.

Speaker #1: We are bullish on that . We believe that we can work with high quality customers , both on the on the commercial segment and on the individual segment to to deploy that lending , that dollar lending capacity .

Speaker #1: So we believe that if that regulation evolves , allowing this to happen , this will turn into something positive for the bank because we are in the bullish side of the market regarding that .

Speaker #1: But we depend on the regulation to change or to evolve to to take advantage of that opportunity

Speaker #10: Great. Thank you so much.

Ernesto Gabilondo: Great. Thank you so much.

Matías Cattaruzzi: Great. Thank you so much.

Speaker #3: Our next question comes from Ernesto Gabilondo from Bank of America. Please, Mr. Gabilondo, your microphone is open.

Operator: Our next question comes from Ernesto Gabilondo, from Bank of America. Mr. Gabilondo, your microphone is open.

Operator: Our next question comes from Ernesto Gabilondo, from Bank of America. Mr. Gabilondo, your microphone is open.

Speaker #7: Thank you . Hi . Good morning , Juan Jorge and Nicolas , thanks for the opportunity to ask questions and congrats on your results .

Ernesto Gabilondo: Thank you. Hi, good morning, Juan, Jorge, and Nicolás. Thanks for the opportunity to ask questions, congrats in your results. Very close to a recurring ROE of 7% in 2025, if excluding the restructuring costs. My first question is a follow-up on the 2026 guidance. Any color on NPLs? Can you confirm you have reached the NPL peaks, and when do you see them trending down in 2026? Any color in terms of the income growth, also in recurring OpEx growth, so removing the restructuring costs, how do you see recurring OpEx growth? Also, when do you see the ROE returning again to high teens? Can you walk us through over the next years? My second question is on your long-run expectations.

Ernesto Gabilondo: Thank you. Hi, good morning, Juan, Jorge, and Nicolás. Thanks for the opportunity to ask questions, congrats in your results. Very close to a recurring ROE of 7% in 2025, if excluding the restructuring costs. My first question is a follow-up on the 2026 guidance. Any color on NPLs? Can you confirm you have reached the NPL peaks, and when do you see them trending down in 2026? Any color in terms of the income growth, also in recurring OpEx growth, so removing the restructuring costs, how do you see recurring OpEx growth? Also, when do you see the ROE returning again to high teens? Can you walk us through over the next years? My second question is on your long-run expectations.

Speaker #7: Very close to our ROE of 7% in 2025 . If excluding the restructuring costs . My first question is a follow up on the 2026 guidance .

Speaker #7: Any color or NPLs can you can confirm you have reached the MPL peaks and when do you see them trending down in 2026 ?

Speaker #7: Any color in terms of income growth and also in recurring opex growth . So , so removing the restructuring costs , how do you see recurring opex growth ?

Speaker #7: And also when do you see the ROE returning again to high teens ? Can you walk us through over the next years ? My second question is on your long run expectations .

Speaker #7: We have seen a lot of investments announced in Argentina . So in your case , which would be the sectors that you are financing or that you are seeking to finance , leveraging on this announcements especially , you have a very strong capital base .

Ernesto Gabilondo: We have seen a lot of investments announced in Argentina. In your case, which would be the sectors that you are financing or that you are seeking to finance, leveraging on these announcements? Especially, you have a very strong capital base, so maybe you have the opportunity to finance projects with longer duration when compared to your peers. The last question is, in your capital ratio, how do you see your capital allocation this year in terms of buybacks, dividends, or potential M&A activity? Thank you.

Ernesto Gabilondo: We have seen a lot of investments announced in Argentina. In your case, which would be the sectors that you are financing or that you are seeking to finance, leveraging on these announcements? Especially, you have a very strong capital base, so maybe you have the opportunity to finance projects with longer duration when compared to your peers. The last question is, in your capital ratio, how do you see your capital allocation this year in terms of buybacks, dividends, or potential M&A activity? Thank you.

Speaker #7: So maybe you have the opportunity to finance projects with longer duration when compared to your peers . And the last question is in your capital ratio , how do you see your capital allocation this year in terms of buybacks , dividends , or potential M&A activity ?

Speaker #7: Thank you

Juan Parma: Ernesto, how are you? I will try to answer all your questions. In terms of asset quality going forward, in the same trend that we are seeing the cost of risk, lower in terms of the level that we posted in average, in 2025. We're expecting also NPLs to go in the area of between mid to low threes. That is in accordance with the 5.2% cost of risk that we are expecting for 2026, compared to the 5.6% that we saw in 2025. Basically, in terms of long roll that you are also asking, I would say that, yes, there are some investments that have been announced in Argentina, in different sectors, mostly in energy mining.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Ernesto, how are you? I will try to answer all your questions. In terms of asset quality going forward, in the same trend that we are seeing the cost of risk, lower in terms of the level that we posted in average, in 2025. We're expecting also NPLs to go in the area of between mid to low threes. That is in accordance with the 5.2% cost of risk that we are expecting for 2026, compared to the 5.6% that we saw in 2025. Basically, in terms of long roll that you are also asking, I would say that, yes, there are some investments that have been announced in Argentina, in different sectors, mostly in energy mining.

Speaker #8: How are you ? I will try to answer all your questions in terms of of asset quality going forward . In in the in the same trend that we are seeing , the cost of risk lower in terms of the level that we posted in .

Speaker #1: Our age in 25 , we're expecting also Mpls to go in the area of between mid to low three . That is in accordance with the 5.2% cost of resistance .

Speaker #1: We are expecting for 26 , compared to the 5.6% that we saw in 25 . Basically , in terms of loan growth that you are also asking , I would say that yes , there are some investments that have been announced in Argentina in different sectors , mostly in energy mining .

Speaker #1: Some of those investments are going to be done this year , others are going to be done in 27 , 28 , etc. of course .

Juan Parma: Some of those investments are going to be done this year, others are going to be done in 27, 28, et cetera. Of course, this is also related to the other question that you asked, we have the best capital base in Argentina, and of course, we are expecting and prepared to finance those projects this year and following years. Of course, it is pretty sure that the bank wants to make the best use of this excess capital, and we have been trying to grow as much as we can in the past, we could in the past, and going forward. In terms of dividend policy, last year and also this year, we have a 100% payout ratio in terms of cash dividend.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Some of those investments are going to be done this year, others are going to be done in 27, 28, et cetera. Of course, this is also related to the other question that you asked, we have the best capital base in Argentina, and of course, we are expecting and prepared to finance those projects this year and following years. Of course, it is pretty sure that the bank wants to make the best use of this excess capital, and we have been trying to grow as much as we can in the past, we could in the past, and going forward. In terms of dividend policy, last year and also this year, we have a 100% payout ratio in terms of cash dividend.

Speaker #1: And it is also related to the other question that you asked. We have the best capital base in Argentina, and of course, we are expecting and prepared to finance those projects this year.

Speaker #1: And following years . Of course , it is pretty sure that the bank wants to make the best use of this excess capital and we have been trying to grow as much as we can in the past .

Speaker #1: We could in the past , and and going forward also in terms of dividend policy last year and also this year , we have a 100% payout ratio in terms of cash dividend .

Speaker #1: That is this year . Is what the board is going to propose to the shareholders meeting . And of course , we'll have to wait for the central bank to see if that dividend is going to be paid in one instalment .

Juan Parma: That is, this year, is what the board is going to propose to the shareholders' meeting. Of course, we have to wait for the Central Bank to see if that dividend is going to be paid in one installment, three, six, or whatever. Again, we are working in order to bring down this excess capital going forward, with a combination of organic, inorganic growth, cash dividends, and if it is the case, on buyback programs, such as the one that we also, you know, put in place in the past. It is pretty sure that we are very well, I mean, prepared and positioned to take advantage of any positive news, both in the macroeconomic scenario and also within the financial sector in 2026 and onwards.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: That is, this year, is what the board is going to propose to the shareholders' meeting. Of course, we have to wait for the Central Bank to see if that dividend is going to be paid in one installment, three, six, or whatever. Again, we are working in order to bring down this excess capital going forward, with a combination of organic, inorganic growth, cash dividends, and if it is the case, on buyback programs, such as the one that we also, you know, put in place in the past. It is pretty sure that we are very well, I mean, prepared and positioned to take advantage of any positive news, both in the macroeconomic scenario and also within the financial sector in 2026 and onwards.

Speaker #1: Three , six or whatever . But again , we are working in order to bring down this excess capital going forward with the combination of organic , inorganic growth , cash dividend and if it is the case on buyback programs such as the one that we posted on put in place in in the past .

Speaker #1: So it is pretty sure that we are very well , I mean , prepared and and positioned to take advantage of any positive news both in the macro scenario and also within the financial sector .

Speaker #1: In 26 and onwards . In terms of when we are going to be seeing a mid teens in terms of ROE , one thing to take into consideration is that maybe in 2028 , Argentina could be entering into again , I would say nominal reporting , because if 25 , 26 , 27 Argentina , in the three years in a row , we are having less than 100% inflation , we are going back to non inflation adjustment reporting .

Juan Parma: In terms of when we are going to be seeing mid-teens, in terms of ROE, one thing to take into consideration is that maybe in 2028, Argentina could be entering to, again, I would say, nominal reporting. Because if 2025, 2026, 2027, Argentina, in the 3 years in a row, we are having less than 100% inflation, we are going back to non-inflation adjustment reporting. So we should be reporting nominal numbers, and of course, ROE since 2028 onwards. So I think that between 2028 and 2030, I think that is going to be the years where we are going to see Macro delivery, mid-teens ROEs, and maybe something about that.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: In terms of when we are going to be seeing mid-teens, in terms of ROE, one thing to take into consideration is that maybe in 2028, Argentina could be entering to, again, I would say, nominal reporting. Because if 2025, 2026, 2027, Argentina, in the 3 years in a row, we are having less than 100% inflation, we are going back to non-inflation adjustment reporting. So we should be reporting nominal numbers, and of course, ROE since 2028 onwards. So I think that between 2028 and 2030, I think that is going to be the years where we are going to see Macro delivery, mid-teens ROEs, and maybe something about that.

Speaker #1: So we should be reporting nominal numbers . And of course ROE since 28 onwards . So I think that's between 28 and 30 .

Speaker #1: I think that is going to be the year where we are going to see Macro delivering mid-teens ROIs, and maybe something about that.

Speaker #1: And I would like to comment that by the end of 2027 , our restructuring program . Will enter in full effect in terms of being able to capture the benefits of the of the restructuring .

Juan Parma: I would add to Jorge's comment that by the end of 2027, our restructuring program will enter in full effect in terms of being able to capture the benefits of the restructuring. The restructuring costs that we talked about will continue mostly through 2026, part in 2027. By the end of 2027, entering into full effect in 2028, we will be able to capture and harvest the full benefits of the restructuring program. Okay? If you read into our press release and results announcement, you will see that the ARS 82 billion of restructuring costs are related with costs that in 2025 were ARS 49 billion. We cannot talk here about future savings of these actions, but you can read into that.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: I would add to Jorge's comment that by the end of 2027, our restructuring program will enter in full effect in terms of being able to capture the benefits of the restructuring. The restructuring costs that we talked about will continue mostly through 2026, part in 2027. By the end of 2027, entering into full effect in 2028, we will be able to capture and harvest the full benefits of the restructuring program. Okay? If you read into our press release and results announcement, you will see that the ARS 82 billion of restructuring costs are related with costs that in 2025 were ARS 49 billion. We cannot talk here about future savings of these actions, but you can read into that.

Speaker #1: So the restructuring costs that we talked about will continue mostly through 26 part in 27 . So by the end of 27 , entering into full effect in 28 , we will be able to capture and harvest The the full benefits of the restructuring program .

Speaker #1: Okay, if you read into our press release and results announcement, you will see that the $82 billion of restructuring costs are related to costs that in '25 were $49 billion.

Speaker #1: So we cannot talk here about future savings of of these actions . But you can read into that . So if we continue with this , you can also read into how much that full effect of restructuring costs could mean in 28 .

Juan Parma: If we continue with this, you can also read into how much that full effect of restructuring cost could mean in 2028. Coupled with what Jorge mentioned about the stopping, if Argentina continues in the inflation-reducing trend, moving from real ROEs to nominal ROEs in 2028. By then, I'm pretty confident that we will be able to reach the mid-teen ROEs going forward. Jorge mentioned, back to the question on financing projects, longer tenors, and so forth. Jorge mentioned about the capital strength of the bank. I would also add the liquidity strength and funding strength from the bank, because after the successful placing of negotiable obligations that we did last month, we have also extended our funding capacity to support such projects.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: If we continue with this, you can also read into how much that full effect of restructuring cost could mean in 2028. Coupled with what Jorge mentioned about the stopping, if Argentina continues in the inflation-reducing trend, moving from real ROEs to nominal ROEs in 2028. By then, I'm pretty confident that we will be able to reach the mid-teen ROEs going forward. Jorge mentioned, back to the question on financing projects, longer tenors, and so forth. Jorge mentioned about the capital strength of the bank. I would also add the liquidity strength and funding strength from the bank, because after the successful placing of negotiable obligations that we did last month, we have also extended our funding capacity to support such projects.

Speaker #1: Coupled with what George mentioned about the stopping if Argentina continues in the inflation-reducing trend, moving from real ROE to nominal ROE up in '28.

Speaker #1: So by then I'm pretty confident that we will be able to reach the Mid-teen ROE and going forward , you answer . George mentioned back to the the the question on on financing projects longer tenors .

Speaker #1: And so forth . Of course , I mentioned about the capital strength of the bank . I would also add the liquidity , strength and funding strength from the bank because after the successful placing of negotiable obligations that we did last month , we have also extended our funding capacity to , to , to support such projects for , for the , the tenor range of of for 3 to 4 years .

Juan Parma: in a range of for three to four years. We expect that. The other reality is that companies in Argentina have been benefiting from the access to capital markets and issuing a substantial amount and a record amount, I would say, of US dollar-denominated debt. We expect that after that cycle, then private lending, the private lending market will turn on, particularly if rates in the US at some point go up, we expect this to be an opportunity for that. We are keeping that liquidity, remaining ready to support the energy sector, the mining sector, the infrastructure sector of Argentina, that at some point will start to get traction, we believe.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: in a range of for three to four years. We expect that. The other reality is that companies in Argentina have been benefiting from the access to capital markets and issuing a substantial amount and a record amount, I would say, of US dollar-denominated debt. We expect that after that cycle, then private lending, the private lending market will turn on, particularly if rates in the US at some point go up, we expect this to be an opportunity for that. We are keeping that liquidity, remaining ready to support the energy sector, the mining sector, the infrastructure sector of Argentina, that at some point will start to get traction, we believe.

Speaker #1: So we expect that the other reality is that companies in Argentina have been benefiting from the access to capital markets and issuing a substantial amount and a record amount .

Speaker #1: I would say , of US dollar denominated debt . But we expect that after that cycle , then private lending , the the private lending market will will turn on , particularly if rates in the US at some point go up .

Speaker #1: We expect this to be an opportunity for that. So we are keeping that liquidity remaining ready to support the energy sector, the mining sector, and the infrastructure sector of Argentina that at some point will start to get traction.

Speaker #1: We believe

Speaker #7: Now this is super helpful . Juan and Jorge , thank you very much . Just a follow up in terms of the NPL .

Ernesto Gabilondo: This is super helpful, Juan and Jorge, thank you very much. Just to follow up, in terms of the NPL. Just to confirm, the NPL already peaked in Q4, and you're expecting, for example, NPL to go to low to mid 3% and cost of risk to 5.2%. How should we think about the timing throughout 2026? Is this something that will start to go down in Q1, or is this something that will go down more in the second half of this year? Just a little bit of color on that.

Ernesto Gabilondo: This is super helpful, Juan and Jorge, thank you very much. Just to follow up, in terms of the NPL. Just to confirm, the NPL already peaked in Q4, and you're expecting, for example, NPL to go to low to mid 3% and cost of risk to 5.2%. How should we think about the timing throughout 2026? Is this something that will start to go down in Q1, or is this something that will go down more in the second half of this year? Just a little bit of color on that.

Speaker #7: So just to confirm, the NPL already peaked in the fourth quarter, and you're expecting, for example, MPL to go to low to mid-3%, and cost of risk to 5.2%.

Speaker #7: But how should we think about the timing throughout 2026? Is this something that will start to go down in the first quarter, or is it something that will go down more in the second half of this year?

Speaker #7: So , so just a little bit of color on that .

Juan Parma: Yes, I think that we might see numbers more on the positive in the second half of 2026, some stable numbers in the first half of 2026.

Speaker #1: Yes , so I think that we might see numbers more on the positive in the second half of 26 . Some stable numbers in the first half of 26 .

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Yes, I think that we might see numbers more on the positive in the second half of 2026, some stable numbers in the first half of 2026.

Speaker #7: Perfect . Excellent . Thank you very much

Ernesto Gabilondo: Perfect. Excellent. Thank you very much.

Ernesto Gabilondo: Perfect. Excellent. Thank you very much.

Speaker #3: Our next question comes from Caio Prado from UBS . Please , Mr. Prato , your microphone is open

Operator: Our next question comes from Caio Prato from UBS. Please, Mr. Prato, your microphone is open.

Operator: Our next question comes from Caio Prato from UBS. Please, Mr. Prato, your microphone is open.

Speaker #11: Hello . Hi , guys . Thanks for the opportunity . I have a quick on my side , please . Just to follow up on loans .

Kaio Da Prato: Hello. Hi, guys. Thanks for the opportunity. I have a quick on my side, please, just to follow up on loans. If you are already seeing any pickup in loans sequentially, because it has been weak on a quarter-over-quarter base, or if this is expected to accelerate more towards the second half. Second, still on loans, you mentioned about this reduction in overall growth expectations and talking about GDP. Is there any segment that you are seeing specifically slow down, or if this is most related to lower appetite on consumers? Just some breakdown between both would be good as well. Thank you.

Kaio Da Prato: Hello. Hi, guys. Thanks for the opportunity. I have a quick on my side, please, just to follow up on loans. If you are already seeing any pickup in loans sequentially, because it has been weak on a quarter-over-quarter base, or if this is expected to accelerate more towards the second half. Second, still on loans, you mentioned about this reduction in overall growth expectations and talking about GDP. Is there any segment that you are seeing specifically slow down, or if this is most related to lower appetite on consumers? Just some breakdown between both would be good as well. Thank you.

Speaker #11: If you are already seeing any pickup in low sequentially because . Because it has been weak on a part of a quarter basis .

Speaker #11: Or is this expected to accelerate more towards the second half? And the second question is still on loans. You mentioned this reduction in overall growth expectations and talked about GDP, but is there any segment where you are specifically seeing a slowdown, or is this mostly related to lower consumer appetite?

Speaker #11: So just some breakdown between both would be good as well. Thank you.

Speaker #1: We continue to see most of the sectors, as I mentioned before—energy, and within energy, oil and gas. And then you have mining and the agribusiness sector.

Juan Parma: Hi, Kaio. No, we continue to see most active sectors, as I mentioned before, energy, and within energy, oil, gas, and then you have mining, agribusiness sectors. Those are the most active. The ones that are lagging a little bit are, I would say construction could be, infrastructure for the moment, even though prospects for 2026 of infrastructure are positive. Maybe, massive consuming sectors are also not having a good performance. We expect these sectors, as I was commenting, to be the other leaders or the worst performers in 2026. I would also add that there is a bit of a binary situation in terms of credit quality and risk in an economy which is opening.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Hi, Kaio. No, we continue to see most active sectors, as I mentioned before, energy, and within energy, oil, gas, and then you have mining, agribusiness sectors. Those are the most active. The ones that are lagging a little bit are, I would say construction could be, infrastructure for the moment, even though prospects for 2026 of infrastructure are positive. Maybe, massive consuming sectors are also not having a good performance. We expect these sectors, as I was commenting, to be the other leaders or the worst performers in 2026. I would also add that there is a bit of a binary situation in terms of credit quality and risk in an economy which is opening.

Speaker #1: Those are the most active . The ones that are lagging a little bit are I would say construction could be infrastructure for the moment , even .

Speaker #1: Though prospects for 26 of infrastructure are positive . Maybe Massive consuming sectors are also not having a good performance . We expect this sectors as a call it , to be .

Speaker #1: The other leaders or the worst performance in 26 . I would also add that there is a a bit of a binary situation in terms of credit quality and risk in an economy which is opening , although deregulation at some point will come and help by reducing the Argentina cost , it is clear that there will be winning sectors and losing sectors , probably in the winning side is all the sectors around mining , energy , agriculture also services to some extent commerce , retail .

Juan Parma: Although deregulation at some point will come and help by reducing the Argentina cost, it is clear that there will be winning sectors and losing sectors. Probably on the winning side, is all the sectors around mining, energy, agriculture, also services, to some extent, commerce, retail, if economy starts to pick up. The manufacturing sector is the one that is under the spotlight now, and we are seeing some specific manufacturing sectors, like the textile sector, like the clothing sector, like the automotive sector, suffering because of the opening of the economy. Another lens to look at is not only where or how much we grow in average, but be selective, given this significant change in the structure of the microeconomy by sector in Argentina. Yes.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Although deregulation at some point will come and help by reducing the Argentina cost, it is clear that there will be winning sectors and losing sectors. Probably on the winning side, is all the sectors around mining, energy, agriculture, also services, to some extent, commerce, retail, if economy starts to pick up. The manufacturing sector is the one that is under the spotlight now, and we are seeing some specific manufacturing sectors, like the textile sector, like the clothing sector, like the automotive sector, suffering because of the opening of the economy. Another lens to look at is not only where or how much we grow in average, but be selective, given this significant change in the structure of the microeconomy by sector in Argentina. Yes.

Speaker #1: The economy starts to pick up the manufacturing sector is the one that is Under the spotlight now and we are seeing some specific manufacturing sectors like the textile sector , like the clothing sector , like the automotive sector suffering because of the opening of the economy .

Speaker #1: So another lens to look at is not only where we are or how much we grow in average , but be selective . Given this significant change in the structure of the micro economy by sector in Argentina .

Speaker #12: Yes .

Speaker #11: Okay . But in terms of the loan , it's clear . But in terms of the loan growth , it's already improving sequentially .

Kaio Da Prato: Okay. In terms of the loan, it's clear, but in terms of the loan growth, it's already improving sequentially, or should we expect more of this growth towards the second half of 2026?

Kaio Da Prato: Okay. In terms of the loan, it's clear, but in terms of the loan growth, it's already improving sequentially, or should we expect more of this growth towards the second half of 2026?

Speaker #11: Or should they expect more of this growth towards the second half of the 2026 ?

Speaker #1: I think . Well , always the first quarter is the seasonally lowest . So I think that it's going to be in a gradual increase when towards the end of 26 .

Juan Parma: I think, well, always the Q1 is the seasonally lowest, I think that it's going to be in a gradual increase trend towards the end of 2026.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: I think, well, always the Q1 is the seasonally lowest, I think that it's going to be in a gradual increase trend towards the end of 2026.

Speaker #11: Okay , great . Thank you very much .

Kaio Da Prato: Okay, great. Thank you very much.

Kaio Da Prato: Okay, great. Thank you very much.

Speaker #1: Welcome .

Juan Parma: Welcome.

Jorge Francisco Scarinci: Welcome.

Speaker #3: Just as a reminder, if you wish to ask a question, please use the Q&A button or click on the Raise Hand button.

Operator: Just as a reminder, if you wish to ask a question, please use the Q&A button or click on Raise Hand button. We will pull for questions. There are no more questions at this time. This does conclude the Q&A section. I'll now turn it over to Mr. Nicolás Torres for any final remarks.

Operator: Just as a reminder, if you wish to ask a question, please use the Q&A button or click on Raise Hand button. We will pull for questions. There are no more questions at this time. This does conclude the Q&A section. I'll now turn it over to Mr. Nicolás Torres for any final remarks.

Speaker #3: Wait while we'll pull for questions There are no more questions at this time . This does concludes the Q&A section . I'll now turn it over to Mr. Nicolas Torres for any final remarks .

Speaker #1: Thank you all for your interest in Banco Macro SA . We appreciate your time and look forward to speaking with you again . Have a good day

Juan Parma: Thank you all for your interest in Banco Macro. We appreciate your time and look forward to speaking with you again. Have a good day.

Nicolás Torres: Thank you all for your interest in Banco Macro. We appreciate your time and look forward to speaking with you again. Have a good day.

Operator: Banco Macro's Q4 2025 conference call is now closed. You can disconnect now. Have a wonderful day.

Operator: Banco Macro's Q4 2025 conference call is now closed. You can disconnect now. Have a wonderful day.

Ernesto Gabilondo: Goodbye.

Operator: Goodbye.

Q4 2025 Banco Macro SA Earnings Call

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Banco Macro

Earnings

Q4 2025 Banco Macro SA Earnings Call

BMA

Thursday, February 26th, 2026 at 4:00 PM

Transcript

No Transcript Available

No transcript data is available for this event yet. Transcripts typically become available shortly after an earnings call ends.

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