Ameris Bancorp Caps Fiscal 2025 with Record Profits and Shareholder Returns
01.02.2026 - 19:38:04
Ameris Bancorp has concluded its 2025 fiscal year on a high note, surpassing market forecasts and posting record annual earnings. The financial institution's robust fourth-quarter performance, driven by strong margins, culminated in double-digit profit growth for the full year. In response, management is aggressively returning capital to shareholders, a move that has garnered continued analyst endorsement.
Market observers have reaffirmed their bullish stance following the earnings release. The firm DA Davidson reiterated its Buy rating on Ameris shares, establishing a price target of $90.00. This target implies an upside potential of approximately 11% from the last closing price of $81.26 on January 30.
A significant portion of the bank's strategy involves returning value to investors. Alongside a quarterly dividend payout of $0.20 per share, the board has authorized a new share repurchase program worth $200 million. This follows substantial buyback activity in the final quarter alone, during which the company acquired roughly $40.8 million of its own stock.
Dissecting the Record Annual Performance
For the full 2025 fiscal year, Ameris reported a record net income of $412.2 million. Earnings per share reached $6.00, marking a 15% increase year-over-year.
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The fourth quarter was particularly strong, with net income coming in at $108.4 million. EPS of $1.59 exceeded analyst consensus estimates of $1.56. A key driver was the expansion of the net interest margin to 3.85% in Q4, primarily attributed to lower funding costs. Furthermore, the bank's lending business demonstrated considerable strength, generating $2.4 billion in new loan volume—its highest level since mid-2022.
Guidance and Forward-Looking Strategy
Looking ahead to 2026, Ameris Bancorp has provided a measured outlook. The institution anticipates moderate mid-single-digit percentage growth in both loans and deposits. Management expects the net interest margin to stabilize within a range of 3.75% to 3.80%, despite potential market volatility.
The focus now shifts to the execution of growth targets for the first half of the new fiscal year. The bank's ability to maintain its projected margin will be a critical factor to watch. Investors can expect the next scheduled financial update in April.
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