Net Interest Margin Expansion
Net interest margin expanded by 2 basis points to 3.24%, mainly driven by higher average loan balances and the repricing of loans and reinvestment of securities in a higher interest rate environment.
Strong Loan Growth
Loan balances increased by $603 million or nearly 2%, with PPR's loan portfolio growing by $583 million primarily in the commercial segment and Popular Bank seeing a $21 million increase driven by commercial loans.
Stable Credit Quality
Credit quality metrics remained stable during the third quarter, with the provision for credit losses increasing partly due to loan growth and stable metrics in mortgage and commercial portfolios.
Increase in Tangible Book Value
Tangible book value per share increased by 10% to $69.04, driven by lower unrealized losses in the investment portfolio.
Positive Economic Indicators in Puerto Rico
Business activity in Puerto Rico remained solid, with favorable trends in employment, consumer spending, and a strong tourism and hospitality sector.