Bank of Hawaii delivered a strong financial performance in the first quarter of 2026, marked by an increase in net interest income and net interest margin for the eighth consecutive quarter. This growth was primarily fueled by the repricing of fixed assets and a significant decrease in deposit costs. The company reported earnings per share of $1.39 and maintained robust capital and credit quality. Strategic initiatives, including the expansion of wealth management services and the establishment of a center for family businesses, are key to the bank's future growth. Despite potential global headwinds, the bank remains confident in achieving a 2.9% net interest margin by year-end, supported by Hawaii's stable economic environment.
During the earnings call, executives discussed the bank's impressive net interest margin expansion. Brad Sattenberg, the Chief Financial Officer, noted a 13 basis point increase in the net interest margin, which contributed to a 28 basis point improvement over the last six months. This was largely due to the successful repricing of $643 million in fixed-rate loans and investments, moving from an average yield of approximately 4% to 5.6%. This strategic move is expected to propel the bank towards its year-end goal of a 2.9% net interest margin, even amidst an unpredictable interest rate landscape. Deposit trends also proved favorable, with the average cost of total deposits decreasing by 17 basis points, achieving a beta of 36%, surpassing the previous target of 35%.
Jim Polk, the President and CEO, emphasized the bank's commitment to its distinctive market position in Hawaii, where it holds a dominant share of FDIC-recorded deposits among local institutions. He highlighted the stable economic conditions in Hawaii, characterized by low unemployment, robust tourism spending, and active construction. However, Polk also acknowledged external risks such as Middle East tensions and rising energy costs, which could impact consumer confidence and travel. The bank's credit portfolio demonstrated resilience, with net charge-offs totaling a mere $1.1 million, or 3 basis points annualized, a significant reduction from previous periods.
Brad Shearson, the Chief Risk Officer, provided further details on the credit portfolio, emphasizing the bank's disciplined underwriting practices. Approximately 93% of the loan portfolio is concentrated in Hawaii, with a balanced mix of consumer and commercial exposures. Consumer loans, representing 56% of the total, are primarily residential mortgages and home equity loans with low loan-to-value ratios and high FICO scores. Commercial lending, making up 44% of the portfolio, is 73% secured by real estate, reflecting a strong emphasis on collateral protection. Oahu's commercial real estate market remains stable due to low vacancy rates and limited inventory, contributing to the portfolio's strong credit quality.
Looking ahead, the Bank of Hawaii anticipates continued growth in its wealth management division, which is expected to become an increasingly vital part of its business. The recently established Center for Family Business and Entrepreneurs provides dedicated resources for succession planning, business valuation, and estate planning, catering to the unique needs of Hawaii's family-owned enterprises. The bank also reported ongoing share repurchases, with plans to buy back an additional $15 million to $20 million in stock during the second quarter, demonstrating a commitment to returning value to shareholders.
The bank's robust first-quarter results underscore its operational efficiency and strategic foresight. Despite a slight decrease in net income due to elevated non-interest expenses, including seasonal payroll taxes and non-recurring compensation charges, the bank's underlying earnings power remains strong. The positive trajectory in net interest income and margin, coupled with declining deposit costs and effective fixed-asset repricing, positions the Bank of Hawaii for sustained financial health. The cautious yet optimistic outlook, balancing local economic strength with global uncertainties, reflects a prudent management approach.
