Fintech
White River Bancshares Co. Earns $1.79 Million, or $1.79 Per Diluted Share, in Second Quarter 2022; Second Quarter Results Highlighted By Strong Loan Growth and Net Interest Margin Expansion
White River Bancshares Company (OTCQX: WRIV), (the “Company”) the holding company for Signature Bank of Arkansas (the “Bank”), reported net income of $1.79 million, or $1.79 per dilute share, in the second quarter of 2022, compared to $2.08 million, or $2.14 per diluted share, in the second quarter of 2021. In the immediate prior quarter, the Company earned $1.07 million, or $1.08 per diluted share. In the first six months of 2022, net income was $2.9 million, or $2.88 per diluted share, compared to $3.6 million, or $3.75 per diluted share, in the first six months of 2021. All financial results are unaudited.
“Our results for the second quarter of 2022 were highlighted by an increase in net interest income generation and net interest margin expansion,” said Gary Head, President and Chief Executive Officer. “We generated double digit year-over-year growth in both loans and core deposits, in part due to new customer relationships from our existing market locations and new markets in Harrison and Jonesboro that opened earlier this year. As expected, net income for the second quarter was impacted by the reduction in PPP income when compared to the year ago quarter, as we continue to wind down from the unprecedented events of the pandemic. Results were also impacted by the investments we have made in employee retention and in our new market locations. However, we are very encouraged with the progress these new locations are making, as both are exceeding our expectations for growth, and already contributing to operating revenue. We are also making advancements with our plans to enter a new market later this year with the recently formed division of Signature Bank of Arkansas, Banco Sí! This new division will employ bilingual staff as we increase our efforts to better serve Arkansas area Latinos.”
“We continue to strengthen our core funding mix with non-interest bearing deposits increasing 25.0% compared to a year ago, and representing 33.9% of total deposits at quarter end,” said Scott Sandlin, Chief Strategy Officer. “By building out our core deposit base, we are able to fund new loan activity with core deposits and reduce our reliance on borrowed funds, contributing to the net interest margin expanding 26 basis points compared to the second quarter a year ago.”
Second Quarter 2022 Financial Highlights:
- Second quarter net income was $1.79 million, or $1.79 per diluted share, compared to $2.08 million, or $2.14 per diluted share, in the second quarter of 2021.
- Annualized return on average assets was 0.81%, compared to 1.04% in the second quarter a year ago.
- Annualized return on average equity was 9.28%, from 10.95% in the second quarter a year ago.
- Second quarter net interest margin (“NIM”) expanded 31 basis points to 3.87%, compared to 3.56% in the second quarter a year ago.
- There was no provision for loan losses in the second quarter of 2022, or the second quarter of 2021.
- Net loans increased 10.2% to $709.3 million at June 30, 2022, compared to $643.6 million at June 30, 2021.
- Total deposits increased 13.4% to $778.1 million at June 30, 2022, compared to $685.9 million a year ago.
- Noninterest bearing deposits increased 25.0% to $264.1 million at June 30, 2022, compared to $211.3 million a year ago.
- Nonperforming assets totaled $185,000, or 0.02% of total assets at June 30, 2022, compared to almost nil, or 0.00% of total assets, at June 30, 2021.
- Book value per common share was $76.61 at June 30, 2022, from $79.91 a year ago.
- Total risk-based capital ratio was 12.59% and the Tier 1 leverage ratio was 10.22% for the Bank at June 30, 2022.
Income Statement
The Company’s NIM expanded 31 basis points to 3.87% in the second quarter of 2022, compared to 3.56% in the second quarter of 2021. In the first six months of 2022, the NIM was 3.72%, compared to 3.69% in the first six months of 2021.
“The changes we made in our investments and funding mix over the last several quarters continue to reduce our dependency on brokered CDs, internet CDs and Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) advances, and resulted in significant net interest margin expansion during the second quarter. Our balance sheet remains well positioned to continue to benefit from any additional Fed rate increases,” said Brant Ward, Chief Operating Officer.
Net interest income increased 20.0% to $8.2 million, compared to $6.9 million in the second quarter of 2021. Total interest income increased 13.4% to $9.1 million in the second quarter of 2022, compared to $8.0 million in the second quarter of 2021. Total interest expense decreased by 25.5% to $869,000 in the second quarter of 2022, from $1.2 million during the second quarter of 2021. In the first six months of 2022, net interest income increased 12.4% to $15.5 million, compared to $13.8 million in the first six months of 2021.
Noninterest income was $1.6 million in the second quarter of 2022, which was unchanged compared to the second quarter a year ago. Higher wealth management fee income was offset by lower secondary market fee income during the second quarter of 2022. In the first six months of the year, noninterest income decreased 13.4% to $2.9 million, compared to $3.4 million in the first six months of 2021.
Noninterest expense increased to $7.4 million in the second quarter of 2022, compared to $5.7 million in the second quarter of 2021. Higher commissions due to increased revenues in business lines, residual costs related to the core conversion and costs associated with the two new markets contributed to the increase during the second quarter of 2022, compared to the second quarter a year ago. In the first six months of the year, noninterest expense increased to $14.6 million, compared to $12.3 million in the first six months of 2021.
Balance Sheet
Total assets increased 10.5% to $896.1 million at June 30, 2022, from $810.7 million at June 30, 2021, and increased modestly compared to $895.6 million at March 31, 2022. Cash and cash equivalents increased to $50.6 million at June 30, 2022 from $40.9 million a year ago and decreased when compared to $90.3 million at March 31, 2022. Investment securities increased to $95.8 million at June 30, 2022, from $87.7 million a year ago, as the Company continued to move cash balances into better yielding investment securities during the quarter.
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses, increased 10.2% to $709.3 million at June 30, 2022, compared to $643.6 million a year ago, and increased 4.2% compared to $680.4 million three months earlier.
“Loan growth was robust during the quarter, increasing 4.2% over the three-month period, or 16.8% annualized. Our team has done an excellent job with new loan originations, and we anticipate this trend to continue with strong demand for 1-4 family loans,” said Jeff Maland, Chief Risk Officer.
Total deposits increased 13.4% to $778.1 million at June 30, 2022, compared to $685.9 million a year ago and increased modestly compared to $776.7 million at March 31, 2022. Noninterest bearing deposits increased 25.0% to $264.1 million at June 30, 2022, compared to $211.3 million a year ago. New customer relationships, primarily with low-cost checking accounts, continue to account for a majority of the deposit growth year-over-year.
FHLB advances continue to decline, totaling $10.9 million at June 30, 2022, from $16.8 million at June 30, 2021. Total stockholders’ equity was $76.2 million at June 30, 2022, compared to $77.4 million at June 30, 2021, and $78.0 million at March 31, 2022. Tangible book value per common share was $76.61 at June 30, 2022, from $79.91 at June 30, 2021, and $78.61 at March 31, 2022. The decrease in total stockholders’ equity and tangible book value per share during the current quarter was primarily due to a $6.3 million decrease in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) related primarily to an increase in the unrealized loss on available for sale securities reflecting the increase in interest rates during the current quarter. Excluding AOCI, tangible book value per share was $82.91 at June 30, 2022.
Credit Quality
“Asset quality remains strong, and we continue to focus on maintaining a moderate risk profile,” said Maland. Due to sound credit quality and a strong allowance for loan losses, the Company reported no provision for loan losses in the second quarter of 2022, the first quarter of 2022, or the second quarter of 2021.
Nonperforming loans totaled $185,000 at June 30, 2022. This compared to $114,000 in nonperforming loans at March 31, 2022, and no nonperforming loans at June 30, 2021. Nonperforming assets were $185,000 at June 30, 2022, compared to $664,000 at March 31, 2022, and no nonperforming assets at June 30, 2021. Total nonperforming assets were 0.02% of total assets at June 30, 2022, 0.07% at March 31, 2022, and 0.00% at June 30, 2021.
The allowance for loan losses was $8.3 million, or 1.15% of total loans, at June 30, 2022, compared to $8.7 million, or 1.35% of total loans, at June 30, 2021. Net loan recoveries were $50,000 in the second quarter of 2022, compared to net loan recoveries of $11,000 in the first quarter of 2022, and net loan recoveries of $3,000 in the second quarter of 2021.
Capital
The Bank’s capital ratios continued to exceed regulatory “well-capitalized” requirements, with a Tier 1 leverage ratio estimate of 10.22%, Common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 11.54%, Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 11.54% and Total capital ratio of 12.59%, at June 30, 2022.
Recent Developments
Earlier this year, the Company announced plans to launch a new market employing bilingual staff as it increases its efforts to better serve Arkansas area Latinos. Banco Sí!, a recently formed division of Signature Bank of Arkansas, will focus on a growing segment of the population who feels underserved by traditional banks. The name Banco Sí! (meaning “Yes Bank” in Spanish) was chosen to send a positive message to the Latino community, who has historically been told ‘no’ where finances are concerned. The initial market location is planned for downtown Rogers in a historic building at 114 S. First St.
“The Latino community has grown to become the largest minority community in the region and the United States, and we believe it is underserved,” said Ward. “Our mission is to create economic growth and access to banking services, capital, and funds for small and midsize businesses that traditionally have not had access in the past.”
During the first quarter of 2022, the Company opened its seventh market, located at 111 East Jackson Avenue in Jonesboro. This facility will serve as a temporary location for the market and marks the Company’s entry into Craighead County. According to the 2020 Census, Jonesboro had a population of 78,576 and is the fifth-largest city in Arkansas.
During the fourth quarter of 2021, the Company opened its sixth market, located in Harrison in the Durand Center at 303 N. Main Street, Suite 100. Harrison, located in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, is nationally recognized as one of the “Best Small Towns in America” and was previously featured in Where to Retire Magazine as one of the best retirement towns in the United States. https://www.cityofharrison.com/
Fintech
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA)
As we close out 2024, the fintech industry continues to deliver headlines that underscore its dynamism and innovation. From IPO aspirations to groundbreaking regulatory milestones, today’s updates highlight the transformative power of fintech partnerships, regulatory evolution, and disruptive technologies. Here’s what you need to know.
Chime’s Quiet Step Toward Public Markets
Chime, the U.S.-based financial technology startup best known for its digital banking services, has taken a significant step by filing confidential paperwork for an initial public offering (IPO). As one of the most valuable private fintechs in the U.S., Chime’s move could potentially signal a renewed appetite for fintech IPOs in a market that has been cautious following fluctuating valuations across the tech sector.
With a valuation that reportedly exceeded $25 billion in its last funding round, Chime’s IPO could set a new benchmark for the industry. Observers note that its strong customer base and revenue growth may make it an appealing choice for investors seeking to capitalize on the digital banking boom. However, the timing and success of the IPO will depend on broader market conditions and the regulatory landscape.
Source: Bloomberg
ZBD’s Pioneering Achievement: EU MiCA License Approval
ZBD, a fintech company specializing in Bitcoin Lightning network solutions, has made history by becoming the first to secure an EU MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) license. This landmark approval by the Dutch regulator positions ZBD at the forefront of compliant crypto-fintech operations in Europe.
MiCA, which aims to harmonize the regulatory framework for crypto-assets across the EU, has been a focal point for industry players aiming to establish legitimacy and expand their offerings. ZBD’s achievement not only validates its operational rigor but also sets a precedent for other fintech firms navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.
Industry insiders view this as a strategic advantage for ZBD as it broadens its footprint in Europe. By leveraging its regulatory approval, the company can accelerate its product deployment and establish trust with institutional and retail users alike.
Source: Coindesk, PR Newswire
The Fintech-Credit Union Synergy: A Blueprint for Innovation
The convergence of fintechs and credit unions continues to reshape the financial services ecosystem. Collaborative initiatives, such as the one highlighted in the recent partnership between fintech innovators and credit unions, are proving to be a potent force in delivering tailored financial solutions.
This “dream team” approach allows credit unions to leverage fintech’s technological expertise while maintaining their community-focused ethos. Key areas of collaboration include digital payments, personalized financial management tools, and enhanced loan processing capabilities. These partnerships not only enhance member engagement but also enable credit unions to remain competitive in an increasingly digital-first financial environment.
Industry analysts emphasize that such collaborations underscore a broader trend of traditional financial institutions embracing fintech-driven solutions to bridge service gaps and foster innovation.
Source: PYMNTS
Tackling Student Loan Debt: A Fintech’s Mission
Student loan debt remains a pressing issue for millions of Americans, and a Rochester-based fintech aims to offer relief through its cloud-based platform. This innovative solution is designed to simplify loan management and provide borrowers with actionable insights to reduce their debt burden.
The platform’s features include repayment optimization tools, personalized financial education, and seamless integration with loan servicers. By addressing the complexities of student loan management, this fintech is empowering borrowers to make informed decisions and achieve financial stability.
As the student loan crisis continues to evolve, solutions like this highlight the critical role fintech can play in addressing systemic financial challenges while fostering financial literacy and inclusion.
Source: RBJ
Industry Implications and Takeaways
Today’s updates underscore several key themes shaping the fintech landscape:
- Regulatory Milestones: ZBD’s MiCA license approval exemplifies the importance of regulatory compliance in unlocking growth opportunities.
- Strategic Partnerships: The collaboration between fintechs and credit unions demonstrates the value of combining technological innovation with traditional financial models to drive customer-centric solutions.
- Market Opportunities: Chime’s IPO move reflects a potential revival in fintech public offerings, signaling confidence in the sector’s long-term prospects.
- Social Impact: Fintech’s ability to tackle systemic issues, such as student loan debt, showcases its role as a force for positive change.
The post Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Fintech
SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025
Leading global payments platform SPAYZ.io has confirmed it will be attending iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 on 14 to 16 January. Exhibiting at Stand 64 at Trade Centre Dubai, SPAYZ.io’s team of professionals will be on hand providing live demonstrations of its renowned payment services for payment providers. Attendees will also receive exclusive insight into SPAYZ.io’s plans for 2025 alongside early early access to its upcoming plans for the new year.
SPAYZ.io delivers a host of payment solutions that leverage the latest technological innovations and open access to the fastest growing emerging markets across Africa, Europe and Asia. Over the past year, there has been huge demand for its Open Banking and local payment method services, alongside bank transfers, mass payouts, online banking and e-wallets.
Yana Thakurta, Head of Business Development at SPAYZ.io commented: “We look forward to once again participating at iFX Dubai to expand our network of partners and clients. It’s a fantastic way to kick off the year, connecting with thousands of industry leaders from FOREX platforms to trading companies, and everything in between.
“Our key goal for iFX Dubai EXPO 2025 is to expand our portfolio of solutions and geographies. We’re using this as an opportunity to partner with like-minded entities who share our ambition to provide payment solutions that are truly global.”
Come meet SPAYZ.io’s team at the Trade Centre Dubai at Stand 64. You can also book a meeting slot with a member of a team.
The post SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Fintech
Airtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments
Airtm, the most connected digital dollar account in the world, is proud to announce the addition of two distinguished industry leaders to its Board of Directors: Rafael de la Vega, Global SVP of Partnerships at Auctane, and Shivani Siroya, CEO & Founder of Tala. These appointments reflect Airtm’s commitment to innovation and financial inclusion as the company enters its next phase of growth.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rafael and Shivani to Airtm’s Board of Directors,” said Ruben Galindo Steckel, Co-founder and CEO of Airtm. “Their unique perspectives and proven track records will be invaluable as we continue scaling our platform to empower individuals and businesses in emerging markets. Together, we’ll push the boundaries of financial inclusion and innovation to create a more connected and equitable global economy. Rafael and Shivani bring a wealth of experience and strategic insight that will strengthen Airtm’s mission to connect emerging economies with the global market.”
Rafael de la Vega, a seasoned leader in fintech global partnerships and technology innovation, is currently the Global SVP of Partnerships at Auctane. With a proven track record of delivering scalable, impactful solutions at the intersection of fintech, innovation, and commerce, Rafael’s expertise will be pivotal as Airtm continues to grow. “Airtm has built a platform that breaks down barriers and opens up opportunities for people in emerging economies to connect to global markets. I am excited to contribute to its growth and help further its mission of fostering financial inclusion on a global scale,” said Rafael.
Shivani Siroya, CEO and Founder of Tala, is a pioneer in financial technology, renowned for empowering underserved communities through access to credit and essential financial tools. Her leadership in leveraging data-driven innovation aligns seamlessly with Airtm’s vision of creating more equitable financial opportunities. “Empowering underserved communities has always been at the core of my work, and Airtm’s mission resonates deeply with me. I’m thrilled to join the Board and work alongside such a dynamic team to expand access to financial tools that truly make a difference in people’s lives,” said Shivani.
The post Airtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
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