Successful Acquisition of Premier Financial
The acquisition of Premier Financial was successfully completed, elevating WesBanco into the ranks of the top 100 largest U.S. banks by asset size. Nearly 90% of Premier employees were retained, and the merger has received positive feedback.
Strong Organic Loan and Deposit Growth
First quarter organic loan growth was 8% year-over-year and 4% quarter-over-quarter annualized. Total deposits increased by $922 million year-over-year, with organic deposit growth, excluding CDs, at 5% year-over-year and nearly 11% quarter-over-quarter annualized.
Improved Financial Metrics
Net income, excluding merger and restructuring expenses, increased 54% from the prior year to $51.2 million. The net interest margin increased to 3.35%, and the efficiency ratio improved to 58.62%.
Positive Operating Leverage
The company delivered strong organic loan and deposit growth while achieving positive operating leverage. Pre-tax, pre-provision earnings grew by 25% year-over-year.