Release Date: April 25, 2025
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
Positive Points
- NBT Bancorp Inc (NBTB, Financial) reported a strong operating return on assets of 1.11% and a return on equity of 10% for the first quarter of 2025.
- The company achieved a 4th consecutive quarter of improved net interest margin by growing earning assets and lowering funding costs.
- Non-interest income made up 31% of total revenues, with significant contributions from non-banking businesses.
- NBT Bancorp Inc (NBTB) added over $100 million to shareholders' equity in the past 15 months while maintaining a higher level of dividends.
- The merger with Evans Bank Corp is expected to enhance NBT Bancorp Inc (NBTB)'s ability to provide financial services in the growing semiconductor and advanced electronics manufacturing ecosystem.
Negative Points
- Loan yields decreased by 3 basis points due to the re-pricing of $2.1 billion in variable rate loans.
- Net charge-offs to average loans increased to 27 basis points, including a $2.1 million write-down of a commercial real estate loan.
- The company experienced modest loan growth in the first quarter, with macro uncertainties affecting customer project timelines.
- The residential mortgage segment did not perform well, with home sales not being robust in the first part of the year.
- The company anticipates a slower loan growth rate of 2% to 3% due to macroeconomic uncertainties.
Q & A Highlights
Q: Can you share your high-level thoughts on the demand for credit in your markets? Are pipelines strong, and where are you seeing strength or weakness?
A: Pipelines are consistent with last year across our markets, including northern New England, upstate New York, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. While macro uncertainties exist, we haven't seen customers abandoning projects. Overall, demand remains stable and in line with our markets. - Scott Kingsley, President, Chief Executive Officer
Q: How is competition affecting the supply of credit, and are pricing spreads remaining rational?
A: Generally, pricing is reasonable and disciplined, though there are episodic situations where smaller banks compete aggressively. However, these instances are not widespread. - Scott Kingsley, President, Chief Executive Officer
Q: With the Evans merger closing soon, do you see opportunities for Evans bankers to leverage your balance sheet to expand client relationships?
A: Yes, leveraging our larger balance sheet was a key part of our value proposition to Evans. The onboarding process is going well, and we expect opportunities for growth in client relationships post-merger. - Scott Kingsley, President, Chief Executive Officer
Q: Given recent comments on the CHIPS Act, do you expect any delays for Micron or other chip-related projects?
A: While there could be adjustments, the underlying intent to source semiconductor manufacturing domestically remains strong. Micron's project is progressing, with land acquisition and infrastructure developments underway, aiming for production by mid-2027 to early 2028. - Scott Kingsley, President, Chief Executive Officer
Q: Can you provide an update on fee income drivers and expected loan growth for the second quarter?
A: Fee income was strong, with a $46 million run rate excluding one-time gains. Market volatility could impact wealth management fees. Loan growth expectations have been adjusted to 2-3% due to macro uncertainties, down from the previous 3-5% forecast. - Annette Burns, Chief Financial Officer
Q: Regarding the Evans merger, are there any expected changes to your balance sheet or liquidity management post-close?
A: We have been strategically purchasing securities in advance of the merger to avoid large-scale buying post-close. We expect some modest churn in the Evans portfolio to align with our duration preferences. - Scott Kingsley, President, Chief Executive Officer
Q: What is your outlook on M&A activity post-Evans merger, considering current market conditions?
A: Our focus is on integrating Evans and supporting growth in Rochester and Buffalo. While we are open to discussions with smaller community banks, our immediate priority is the Evans integration. We continue to evaluate opportunities to fill gaps in our coverage. - Scott Kingsley, President, Chief Executive Officer
Q: Are charge-offs still expected to be led by auto and residential solar portfolios, and are there other portfolios under close watch?
A: Yes, charge-offs will likely continue to be led by auto and residential solar. Commercial charge-offs are more episodic and manageable. - Annette Burns, Chief Financial Officer
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
