Morris State Bancshares Reports Earnings Growth and Dividends
Morris State Bancshares Shares Q1 Earnings Report
Morris State Bancshares, Inc. (OTCQX: MBLU), the parent of Morris Bank, has revealed significant financial outcomes for the first quarter of the year. The company reported a net income of $4.9 million, marking a modest increase of $22,000 or 0.45% as compared to the same quarter last year. However, this figure represents a decrease from the preceding quarter's net income of $6.1 million, reflecting a 20.04% drop. The overall financial health, along with a consistent net interest income, demonstrates the bank's promise moving forward.
Key Financial Performance Highlights
During the quarter, net interest income before provisions for credit losses surged by $980,000 since last quarter and by $2.5 million from the previous year. The bank's net interest margin improved considerably, standing at 4.29%, which is an increase from 4.17% in the prior quarter and significantly up from 3.99% from the same time last year. Spence Mullis, Chairman and CEO, noted that these financial improvements were primarily driven by an expansion in net interest margins and active loan growth despite notable loan payoffs during the quarter. He remarked, "This reflects our strategic commitment to maintaining a robust bank performance in the face of evolving market challenges."
Loan Growth and Forward Outlook
Despite encountering significant loan payoffs, Morris State Bancshares achieved a remarkable loan growth exceeding $23 million, translating to an annualized growth rate of 8.48%. The company has also reported an enhancement in asset quality, evidenced by a slight decline in adversely classified asset ratios compared to the previous year.
Increased Expenses and Tax Provisions
During this quarter, the provisions for credit losses increased by $549,000, while provisions for unfunded loan commitments rose by $521,000 due to increased loan growth. The overall non-interest expenses rose by $621,000, or 6.95%, mainly due to elevated salaries and employee benefit costs, which included bonuses related to the first quarter of the prior year. This coincided with the expiration of solar project tax credits, translating to a heightened income tax provision of $1.0 million, representing a substantial increase of 217.28% for the quarter.
Dividend Declarations and Shareholder Equity Growth
After announcing a regular quarterly dividend of $0.12 per share alongside a special one-time dividend of $0.15 per share earlier, shareholders witnessed a 1.18% rise in total equity during the quarter, bringing it up to $198 million. This reflects an overall annual growth of 8.75%, approximately $15.9 million, from the previous year. The tangible book value per share saw a growth to $17.66 as of March 31, 2025, up from $17.45 in the previous quarter and up 9.21% from the $16.17 reported a year prior.
Financial Outlook for Current Quarter
On April 16, 2025, the board of directors approved a second quarter dividend of $0.12 per share. This will be payable around June 15, 2025, for all shareholders recorded by May 15, 2025. The overall trajectory of revenue growth, dividends, and strategic planning reflects the bank's commitment to providing value to its shareholders and customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recent net income reported by Morris State Bancshares?
The recently reported net income stands at $4.9 million for the quarter ending March 31, 2025.
How did the net income for this quarter compare to previous quarters?
This represents an increase of $22,000 or 0.45% compared to the same quarter last year but a decrease of 20.04% from the last quarter.
What has contributed to the bank's financial growth?
The increase in net interest income and significant loan growth have significantly contributed to the financial growth reported.
What recent dividends has the company declared?
Morris State Bancshares declared a regular dividend of $0.12 per share and a one-time special dividend of $0.15 per share.
What is the current status of the bank's asset quality?
The bank has reported a slight improvement in asset quality with a reduction in adversely classified asset ratios compared to the previous year.
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