Sierra Bancorp reports Q2 EPS 71c, consensus 60c

Reports Q2 Net interest income was $30.2M for the second quarter of 2024, a $1.9 M increase, or 7% over the second quarter of 2023. This increase in interest income for the quarterly comparison was due primarily to an increase in interest income on loans for $4.2 M , augmented by a $0.8M decrease in interest expense due to the reduction in borrowed funds facilitated by a balance sheet restructuring, partially offset by a related decline in interest income on investments of $1.6M , or 10%, due to the sale of low yielding investments. “We are excited to share our strong second quarter results! The solid improvements achieved in the past two quarters demonstrate our balanced commitment to both our communities and shareholders as we complement growth with a focus on balance sheet strategy in a challenging interest rate environment,” stated Kevin McPhaill, CEO and President. “Our expanding and diversified banking teams continue to strengthen existing customer relationships while also bringing new relationships to the Bank. We are proud of our results for the first half of 2024 and believe that building this foundation will enable us to continue providing both exemplary service to our customers and strong and consistent returns for our shareholders,” concluded Mr. McPhaill. For the first six months of 2024, the Company recognized net income of $19.6M , or $1.35 per diluted share, as compared to $18.7M , or $1.26 per diluted share, for the same period in 2023, a 5% increase. The Company’s improved financial performance metrics for the first half of 2024 include a return on average assets of 1.10%, and net interest margin of 3.66%, as compared to a return on average assets of 1.02%, and a net interest margin of 3.43% for the same period in 2023.