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Dec 31, 2023

United Community Banks Q4 2023 Earnings Report

United Community Banks reported mixed results for Q4 2023, with net income impacted by non-operating items but underlying banking operations showing strength in deposit and loan growth.

Key Takeaways

United Community Banks, Inc. announced a net income of $14.1 million for the fourth quarter. Diluted earnings per share were $0.11, while operating diluted earnings per share reached $0.53. The bank experienced deposit and loan growth, and net interest revenue increased modestly. Asset quality remained solid, excluding Navitas.

Net income for the fourth quarter was $14.1 million, with diluted earnings per share at $0.11.

Operating diluted earnings per share increased to $0.53, driven by core banking operations.

Deposits grew at an annualized rate of 8%, and loans grew at an annualized rate of 2.5%.

Net interest margin decreased slightly to 3.19%, but the pace of margin compression has slowed.

Total Revenue
$180M
Previous year: $243M
-25.9%
EPS
$0.53
Previous year: $0.75
-29.3%
Return on assets
0.18%
Previous year: 1.33%
-86.5%
Return on common equity
1.44%
Gross Profit
$166M
Previous year: $223M
-25.8%
Cash and Equivalents
$1B
Previous year: $647M
+55.2%
Free Cash Flow
$8.45M
Previous year: $82.5M
-89.8%
Total Assets
$27.2B
Previous year: $24B
+13.3%

United Community Banks

United Community Banks

Forward Guidance

United Community Banks is optimistic about 2024, citing strong economic conditions in its markets and a focus on customer service. The bank remains cautious in its underwriting and portfolio management due to the uncertain economic environment.

Positive Outlook

  • Economic conditions remain strong in our markets
  • Our teams continue to be focused on leading our markets in customer service
  • United was named one of the “Best Banks to Work For” by American Banker for the seventh consecutive year
  • We are in the final phases of refreshing our corporate logo and brand across our franchise
  • Our commitment to investing in our people, technology and customers’ needs with a culture of caring will remain the same as we continue to grow

Challenges Ahead

  • We continue to be cautious in our underwriting and portfolio management given the inherent uncertainty in the environment
  • Closely monitoring for potential changes in both the economic environment overall and specifically in our markets
  • Cost of deposits continued to drift upward
  • Net interest margin decreased by 5 basis points
  • Exposure to interest rate volatility in this uncertain environment