HBT Financial Reports Record Q3 Earnings Amid Strong Loan Growth and Midwest Expansion

HBT Financial, Inc. shares surged 2.86% to $24.27 as the company posted its strongest quarterly performance since going public. Net income reached $19.8 million ($0.63 per diluted share), with return on average assets climbing to 1.56%. Adjusted figures tell an even brighter story—$20.5 million ($0.65 per share) and 15.81% return on tangible equity demonstrate Core operational strength.

The earnings momentum stems from disciplined balance sheet management. Loan balances grew at a 6.2% annualized pace while net charge-offs plummeted to just 0.02%. Nonperforming assets remain negligible at 0.17% of total assets. Deposit growth and stable margins further buoyed results, with the recent CNB Bank merger extending HBT's Midwest footprint.

Capital efficiency remains a hallmark—tangible book value grew alongside strategic buybacks. The results showcase how regional banks can thrive through measured expansion and credit quality discipline, even as macroeconomic uncertainties persist.