Investar Holding Corporation Reports 36.8% Asset Growth and Increased Net Income in Latest Quarter

Investar Holding Corporation reported significant financial growth in its latest quarterly filing, with total assets increasing by $1.04 billion, or 36.8%, to $3.88 billion as of March 31, 2026, compared to $2.83 billion at the end of 2025. This surge was primarily driven by the acquisition of Wichita Falls Bancshares, Inc. (WFB), which added approximately $1.15 billion in total assets, including $950.2 million in net loans and $1.02 billion in deposits. For the first quarter of 2026, the company recorded net income available to common shareholders of $11.5 million, or $0.77 per diluted share, up from $6.3 million, or $0.63 per diluted share, in the same period last year.

The company’s loan portfolio saw a substantial increase, rising by $891.8 million, or 41.0%, to $3.07 billion, largely due to the WFB acquisition. Total deposits also grew by $882.6 million, or 37.6%, to $3.23 billion, with noninterest-bearing deposits increasing by 43.5% to $640.1 million. Net interest income for the quarter was $32.7 million, reflecting a 78.0% increase from $18.3 million in the prior year, attributed to a higher average balance of loans and an increase in the yield on interest-earning assets.

Operationally, the company expanded its branch network to 36 locations across Louisiana, Texas, and Alabama, following the WFB acquisition. The total number of full-time equivalent employees increased to 431. The company also reported a net interest margin of 3.59%, up from 2.87% in the previous year, indicating improved profitability from its lending activities. However, nonperforming loans rose to 0.66% of total loans, compared to 0.43% at the end of 2025, primarily due to the acquisition of nonperforming loans from WFB.

Looking ahead, Investar Holding Corporation aims to continue its growth strategy through both organic means and further acquisitions. The company remains focused on optimizing its balance sheet and enhancing its loan portfolio quality. Management expressed confidence in maintaining compliance with regulatory capital requirements, with the Bank classified as "well-capitalized." The outlook remains cautiously optimistic, with ongoing monitoring of economic conditions and interest rate fluctuations that could impact future performance.