Chief Executive Officer Commentary
"Our core operating performance remained strong, led by continued growth in our Mortgage Purchase Program (MPP) business and the successful execution of an opportunistic balance sheet acquisition strategy during the quarter," said Chuck Williams, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "Our third quarter financial results were negatively impacted by fair value declines driven by higher long-term interest rates and expenses associated with an isolated deposit fraud within our retail banking center, which we promptly addressed through strengthened procedures and additional controls."
The Company also announced today it plans to sell the distributed retail and consumer direct mortgage origination channels to CMG Financial and its affiliates ("CMG"). The Company and CMG have entered into a non-binding letter of intent regarding the proposed transaction. Subject to the satisfactory completion of due diligence, execution of a definitive agreement and customary closing conditions, the Company anticipates the proposed transaction should close by the end of 2026.
"Given today’s economic and operating environment, and the continued evolution of the mortgage distribution channels, we are refocusing our strategic priorities where we have the strongest competitive advantages," Williams continued. "This allows us to deepen client relationships, generate attractive portfolio assets, and grow relationship-based deposits, which we expect will improve operating leverage, capital efficiency and create a more robust, stable and scalable earnings profile."
The Company currently estimates restructuring charges of between $6 million and $7 million, with the majority realized during the fourth quarter of 2026. Loans currently in process will continue to be closed, and the Company will provide support to the affected team members. Further details on the timing and anticipated restructuring charges, expense savings, and potential transaction will be provided on the Company’s earnings call on October 21, 2026.
"We believe CMG would be a strong home for our origination team and a constructive path for our customers, referral partners and team members," Williams concluded. "We remain highly committed to the mortgage banking industry, and believe allocating capital and resources to our businesses with the strongest client relationships and balance sheet opportunities provide us the best path forward for long-term growth and shareholder returns."