John Armstrong

John Armstrong asked about the drivers behind the strong loan growth in the quarter, whether pipelines are changing, and the company's overall reserve level goals given stable credit quality.

Answer

Kevin Hester, President and Chief Lending Officer, attributed loan growth to a mix of fully funded larger loans and a stable rate environment. Christopher Poulton, President of Centennial Commercial Finance Group, noted timing shifts in loan closings and payoffs. Chairman John Allison expressed satisfaction with loan growth and reiterated a preference for a 2% reserve level, emphasizing preparedness for future uncertainties.