Net Interest Income Reaches $34.6 Million in Q4 2025
Net interest income totaled $34.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2025, an increase of $0.9 million, or 2.6%, from the prior quarter and an increase of $5.5 million, or 18.7%, compared to the fourth quarter of 2024. Net interest income was $130.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2025, an increase of $16.4 million, or 14.3%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2024; Net interest margin increased six basis points to 2.92% in the fourth quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter and increased 35 basis points compared to the year over year quarter. Net interest income and net interest margin continue to be significantly impacted by the Bank's largest lending relationship remaining on nonaccrual status since the second quarter of 2023; The Company's Tier 1 Capital ratio was 10.70% at December 31, 2025 as compared to 10.66% at September 30, 2025. The Company's leverage ratio was 9.43% at December 31, 2025 as compared to 9.41% at September 30, 2025. The Company's Total Risk-Based Capital ratio was 11.95% at December 31, 2025 as compared to 11.91% at September 30, 2025. "We are pleased to report continued strong fundamentals and positive trends for the fourth quarter and for the full year 2025. During the quarter, we again realized margin expansion and solid loan growth throughout our footprint. Our annual loan growth of 7.0% reflects good momentum in our commercial lending platform. In the second half of 2025, we were fortunate to add new seasoned commercial lending teams in Western North Carolina, and we also entered South Carolina with the establishment of a commercial lending presence in Greenville. Our loan pipeline remains healthy and we continue to expect a tailwind from prior construction lending that will fund online over the coming 12 to 18 months as projects progress. Our balance sheet remains slightly liability sensitive. As the Federal Reserve continues to reduce short-term interest rates, we believe we are well positioned to benefit, including with further margin expansion, especially given the short-term nature of our certificates of deposit portfolio," stated Litz Van Dyke, CEO. "Although our large nonperforming credit relationship continues to have a negative impact on our financial and credit metrics, aside from this impact, our fundamentals, financial performance, and asset quality metrics all remain solid. We are committed to resolving this lending relationship in a manner that is most beneficial to our Company and our shareholders. We continue to believe we are well positioned for a strong 2026 and beyond."
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- Earnings Growth: Carter Bank & Trust reported a GAAP EPS of $0.38 for Q4, indicating stable profitability and resilience in a competitive market environment.
- Revenue Performance: The bank achieved revenues of $39.86 million in Q4, showcasing strong performance and continued growth in its lending and deposit businesses, thereby enhancing its market position.
- Deposit Situation: Total deposits increased slightly by $0.5 million to $4.2 billion as of December 31, 2025, reflecting customer trust and reliance on Carter Bank despite uncertainties in the overall market.
- Borrowing Situation: Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings rose by $3.0 million to $178.5 million to support loan growth, indicating the bank's proactive strategy in expanding its credit business.
- Brand Refresh Achievement: Since unveiling its new brand last year, Carter Bank has received eight national honors, including accolades from the Brandies and MUSE Awards, highlighting its innovation and impact in the financial services sector.
- Industry Recognition: Recently named one of the Best Banks in Virginia by Forbes, Carter Bank's rebranding is seen as a crucial step in enhancing customer service and community engagement, further solidifying its market position.
- Visual Identity Innovation: The new brand identity modernizes Carter Bank's visual recognition while reflecting its mission to create opportunities for more people and businesses, enhancing customer brand loyalty.
- Team Effort Rewarded: Executives at Carter Bank noted that these awards are a testament to the dedication of the team and customer relationships, further motivating employees to continue driving brand development and community service in the future.

Carter Bank's New Status: Carter Bank, a subsidiary of Carter Bankshares, Inc., has received approval to become a state member bank regulated by the Federal Reserve, enhancing its regulatory framework and operational efficiency.
CEO's Statement: CEO Litz Van Dyke expressed optimism about the transition, highlighting it as a significant step towards achieving the company's strategic objectives and fostering innovation.
Company Overview: Carter Bankshares, Inc. is a $4.8 billion community bank based in Martinsville, Virginia, with a mission to create opportunities for individuals and businesses since 1974.
Forward-Looking Statements: The announcement includes forward-looking statements regarding the potential benefits of the bank's transition and conversion to a financial holding company, emphasizing the inherent risks and uncertainties involved.
Stocks Added to Zacks Rank #5: Three stocks, Adecco (AHEXY), Carter Bankshares (CARE), and Cantaloupe (CTLP), have been added to the Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell) List due to significant downward revisions in their earnings estimates over the past 60 days.
Adecco's Earnings Estimate: Adecco's earnings estimate has been revised down by approximately 46.1%, indicating potential challenges in its service offerings that connect clients and colleagues.
Carter Bankshares' Earnings Estimate: Carter Bankshares has seen a 7.3% downward revision in its earnings estimate, reflecting concerns about its banking services and overall financial performance.
Cantaloupe's Earnings Estimate: Cantaloupe's earnings estimate has been adjusted down by about 6.7%, suggesting difficulties in its software and payment solutions for the unattended retail market.
Promotions at Carter Bank: Andy Meece and Charlie Sword have been promoted to Senior Vice President roles, reflecting Carter Bank's commitment to investing in its employees and community banking. Meece will lead strategy and finance, while Sword will oversee accounting operations.
Company Growth and Leadership: These promotions come after a significant rebranding for Carter Bank, highlighting the bank's ongoing growth and the importance of strong leadership in shaping its future.
Carter Bankshares Inc. Rating Update: The stock rating for Carter Bankshares Inc. (CARE) has increased from 77% to 85% based on Martin Zweig's growth investor strategy, indicating strong interest due to its solid fundamentals and valuation.
About Validea and Martin Zweig: Validea is an investment research service that utilizes strategies from renowned investors like Martin Zweig, who achieved an average annual return of 15.9% over 15 years with his stock recommendations.







