Jimmy Tallent
Jimmy Tallent
anticipate assumes competition completed continue continued core credit current decrease due earnings economic environment equity expected fourth further goal growth half interest level loan lower margin net offering operating outlook pricing range related second share slightly stable strong targeted within
Our outlook for 2006 is for operating earnings per share growth within our long-term goal of 12% to 15%, but at the lower end of the range due to the expected dilution related to the equity offering completed during the fourth quarter. We anticipate core loan growth will continue to be within our targeted range of 10% to 14%. Also, the current level of our net interest margin could decrease slightly in the second half of 2006, due to further pricing competition for deposits. Our outlook assumes a stable economic environment and continued strong credit quality.
continued efficiency efforts existing expansion goal operating quarter ratio recent reflecting strength success within
Our operating efficiency ratio of 58.80% for the quarter is within our long-term efficiency goal of 58% to 60%, reflecting the success of our recent expansion efforts and the continued strength of our existing franchise.
annual cash commitment continued deliver dividends increase paid per performance reflects represents share strong value
This represents an annual cash dividend of $.32 per share and an increase of $.04 per share, or 14%, over the dividends paid for 2005. This increase reflects our continued strong performance and commitment to deliver value to our shareholders.