TLDR
- HBT’s Q3 profits hit record highs with strong loan and deposit growth.
- Solid asset quality and low charge-offs drive impressive financial gains.
- Net interest income and noninterest revenue push earnings momentum.
- Tangible book value climbs as HBT strengthens capital and buybacks.
- CNB Bank merger expands HBT’s Midwest footprint and growth potential.
HBT Financial, Inc. shares are driving its stock up by 2.86% to $24.27 midday on October 20.
HBT Financial, Inc., HBT
The company reported net income of $19.8 million or $0.63 per diluted share, showing solid year-over-year and quarterly growth. Return on average assets reached 1.56%, while adjusted figures indicated even stronger underlying performance.
The company’s adjusted net income rose to $20.5 million or $0.65 per diluted share, reflecting robust core operations. This adjusted figure marked the highest quarterly performance since HBT became publicly traded. Return on average tangible common equity climbed to 15.28%, while the adjusted figure hit 15.81%.
Steady loan growth contributed to the earnings momentum, as did controlled credit costs and a strong balance sheet. Loan balances increased by 6.2% on an annualized basis, while the net charge-offs rate dropped to 0.02%. Asset quality remained solid, with nonperforming assets at just 0.17% of total assets.
Stable Margins and Growing Deposits Boost Revenue Streams
Net interest income improved to $50 million, up 0.7% from the second quarter due to higher day counts. The net interest margin dipped slightly by 1 basis point to 4.13%, showing resilience in a competitive environment. On a tax-equivalent basis, the margin held firm at 4.18%.
Deposit balances rose to $4.35 billion, driven by $45 million in wealth management-related money market accounts. This increase offset a $10.1 million decline in time deposits. Improved yields on debt securities also helped offset slightly lower loan yields.
Noninterest income reached $9.8 million, marking a 7.8% rise from the prior quarter. This growth stemmed from stronger wealth management fees and a reduced negative impact from mortgage servicing rights adjustments. Gains on asset sales also added to the total, though card income fell modestly.
Capital Strength, Lower Tax Rate and Strategic Merger Announcement
HBT Financial ended the quarter with strong capital metrics, exceeding all regulatory capital requirements. Tangible book value per share rose $0.62 to $16.64, while the tangible common equity ratio climbed to 10.56%. The firm repurchased nearly 40,000 shares, leaving $11.1 million available under its buyback program.
The effective tax rate declined to 26.1%, compared to 27.0% in the previous quarter. This was due to the absence of nonrecurring tax charges related to previous derivative adjustments. The company maintained efficient expense control despite some debt-related and occupancy cost increases.
HBT Financial announced a merger with CNB Bank Shares, further expanding its presence in Illinois and metro markets. CNB Bank brings a strong community banking footprint, aligning with HBT’s strategic goals. This move is expected to enhance growth and customer reach across the Midwest.
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