Financial Institutions, Inc. announced strong first quarter 2025 results, with net income reaching $16.9 million, a substantial improvement from a net loss in the previous quarter and a significant increase from the prior year. This performance was primarily attributed to the successful investment portfolio restructuring, leading to expanded net interest margin and income, alongside improved credit quality and strategic capital management.
Net interest margin expanded significantly to 3.35%, up 44 basis points from the linked quarter and 57 basis points from the year-ago quarter, primarily due to the investment portfolio restructuring.
Net income available to common shareholders was $16.5 million, or $0.81 per diluted share, a substantial recovery from a net loss of $83.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Total loans increased by 1.7% during the quarter to $4.55 billion, driven by growth in commercial business and commercial mortgage lending.
The Company's credit quality improved, with quarterly net charge-offs to average loans at 0.21%, down from both the linked and year-ago quarters.
The Company anticipates continued loan growth, particularly in the first half of the year, and remains confident in its stronger capital position and improved earnings outlook to drive sustainable and profitable growth, while prudently managing expenses.