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Regional Bank Earnings Split: HBT Sets Records and Plans Merger as Zions Absorbs Credit Hit

The quarter underscores how credit quality shapes profitability across mid-sized lenders.

Overview

  • HBT Financial reported third‑quarter net income of $19.8 million with a 1.56% return on average assets, and adjusted net income of $20.5 million marked its best quarter since going public.
  • HBT’s asset quality remained strong with net charge‑offs at 0.02% and nonperforming assets at 0.17%, while loans grew 6.2% annualized and deposits reached $4.35 billion.
  • HBT strengthened capital and shareholder returns as tangible book value rose to $16.64, the tangible common equity ratio reached 10.56%, and buybacks continued with $11.1 million remaining under authorization.
  • HBT announced a merger with CNB Bank Shares to expand its presence in Illinois and metro Midwest markets.
  • Zions posted core momentum with net interest margin up 11 basis points to 3.28% and higher customer fees, but a $49 million provision and $56 million in net charge‑offs tied to two related C&I loans reduced EPS to $1.48, with legal action underway to pursue roughly $60 million in recoveries.