Columbia Financial, Inc. - CLBK STOCK NEWS

Columbia Financial (CLBK) reported a significant increase in net income to $26.7 million, or $0.26 per share, for Q2 2021, up from $15.1 million, or $0.14 per share, in Q2 2020. This growth was driven by higher net interest income, a reversal of loan loss provisions, and increased non-interest income. For the first half of 2021, net income reached $47.7 million, compared to $21.9 million in the same period last year. The company successfully reduced its cost of funds and managed operating expenses efficiently, alongside a $7.7 million gain from selling PPP loans. Total assets rose 3.1% to $9.1 billion.

Columbia Financial, Inc. (NASDAQ: CLBK) announced a definitive merger agreement to acquire Freehold Bank. This acquisition involves merging Freehold MHC and Freehold Bancorp into Columbia Bank, MHC, with Freehold Bank becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of Columbia Financial. As of March 31, 2021, Freehold Bank held total assets of $299.8 million. The transaction is expected to be accretive to Columbia’s net income but slightly dilutive to earnings per share. The deal is anticipated to close in Q4 2021, pending regulatory approvals.

Columbia Financial, Inc. (NASDAQ: CLBK) reported a significant increase in net income for Q1 2021, with earnings reaching $21.0 million ($0.20 per share), up 211.1% from $6.8 million ($0.06 per share) in Q1 2020. This rise was driven by a $6.0 million boost in net interest income, $10.8 million reduction in loan loss provisions, and $2.2 million increase in non-interest income, despite a $5.6 million increase in income tax expenses. Asset quality remains strong, reflecting resilient management amid the ongoing pandemic challenges.

Columbia Financial, Inc. (Nasdaq: CLBK) announced a new stock repurchase program, allowing the buyback of up to 5,000,000 shares, approximately 4.5% of its outstanding stock. This decision follows a notice of non-objection from the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. Previously, under the company's second repurchase program, 4,836,872 shares were bought back at $66 million, averaging $13.65 per share. The new program will commence after the current one concludes and will be subject to market conditions and regulatory factors.

Columbia Financial, Inc. (CLBK) reported a significant quarterly net income of $20.7 million, or $0.19 per share, for Q4 2020, a 52.4% increase from Q4 2019. This rise was driven by higher net interest income of $58.7 million and lower provisions for loan losses. For the full year, net income grew to $57.6 million, reflecting a 5.3% year-over-year increase. The company successfully executed two acquisitions contributing to a 20% growth in deposits. However, net charge-offs increased, highlighting ongoing risks amidst economic challenges due to COVID-19.

Columbia Bank appointed Oliver Lewis as Executive Vice President, Head of Commercial Banking, effective immediately. Lewis, who previously served as Senior Vice President, has over 25 years of experience in the financial sector. His responsibilities will encompass overseeing the Commercial Banking Division, including various lending activities and Treasury Management Sales. CEO Thomas J. Kemly highlighted Lewis's leadership skills and industry knowledge, positioning him to enhance the bank's Commercial Banking strategy. Columbia Bank remains a significant player in New Jersey's financial landscape with nearly $8.9 billion in assets.

The Federal Home Loan Bank of New York has elected Thomas J. Kemly to its Board of Directors for a four-year term starting January 1, 2021. Kemly, who is also the President and CEO of Columbia Bank, emphasizes the Bank's role in providing economical wholesale credit to enhance housing opportunities and stimulate community development. With nearly 40 years of banking experience, Kemly has held numerous leadership roles in various banking organizations, showcasing his expertise in the financial sector.

Columbia Financial (NASDAQ: CLBK) reported net income of $15.1 million ($0.14 per share) for Q3 2020, a 6.1% increase from Q3 2019. The rise was fueled by a $14.6 million boost in net interest income, despite a higher provision for loan losses due to COVID-19 impacts. The nine-month net income totaled $36.9 million, down 10.2% year-over-year. Total assets rose 8.3% to $8.9 billion, driven by an influx of cash and loans. The bank executed significant loan modifications amid economic uncertainties, maintaining a focus on assisting affected customers.

Columbia Financial has announced a new stock repurchase program to buy back up to 5,000,000 shares, approximately 4.3% of outstanding common stock, starting September 15, 2020. The initiative follows a non-objection notice from the Federal Reserve Bank. Previously, the company completed a repurchase of 7,000,000 shares during the pandemic. This program allows for flexible purchasing methods and may be adjusted based on market conditions. The company aims to enhance shareholder value while evaluating its financial position during challenging economic circumstances.