Sterling Bancorp reports Q2 EPS 3c, one estimate 4c

Reports Net interest income for the second quarter of 2024 was $14.4M compared to $14.9M for the first quarter of 2024. The net interest margin was 2.44% and 2.52% for the second and first quarter of 2024, respectively. The decrease in net interest income during the second quarter of 2024 compared to the prior quarter was primarily due to a $1.3M increase in interest expense on our average balance of interest-bearing deposits since the rate paid during the second quarter of 2024 increased 22 basis points. This decrease was partially offset by a $0.9M increase in interest income earned on our average balance of investment securities and other interest-earnings assets. I The Company reported net income of $1.3 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, compared to a net loss of $(0.2) million, or $(0.00) per diluted share, for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. “Our focus remains fixed on protecting book value and Sterling’s financial position while we continue to explore opportunities to prudently reposition the Company and increase net income. The margin compression experienced by Sterling is generally consistent with what is being felt in much of the community banking industry. Additionally, our substantial level of liquidity continues to exert some downward pressure on earnings. Credit quality remains strong as do our capital ratios. The capital markets have seen some welcome signs of life and recent activity continues to encourage us to maintain the course of action that we are on. Deposit levels remain essentially flat which is our preferred position at this time. While the residential portfolio continues to decline through prepayments and amortization, we are seeing some growth in our commercial portfolio as several very attractive opportunities have come to fruition,” said Thomas M. O’Brien, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer.