Cathay General Bancorp
NASDAQ:CATY
Cathay General Bancorp
Cathay General Bancorp, the parent company of Cathay Bank, was founded in 1962 to serve the growing Chinese-American community in Los Angeles. This strategic focus on a niche demographic, often underserved by mainstream financial institutions, allowed it to establish a loyal customer base. Over the decades, the bank expanded its footprint beyond California to several states across the U.S., and even into Asia. By concentrating initially on commercial banking services such as loans to small and medium-sized businesses within the Asian community, Cathay General Bancorp capitalized on its deep cultural understandings and language skills. This approach enabled them to develop strong client relationships and to provide tailored financial solutions.
The core business model of Cathay General Bancorp is built on the principles of traditional banking, where deposits are taken from individuals and businesses, and these funds are then used to issue loans. The bank earns a significant portion of its revenue from the interest spread—the difference between the interest paid on deposits and the interest earned from loans. Additionally, Cathay generates income through fees for various services like processing loans, foreign exchange, and wealth management. Emphasizing prudent risk management and maintaining robust capital reserves, Cathay navigates the complex market dynamics while staying committed to its community-driven roots. Through these strategies, the bank continues to thrive, adapting to evolving financial landscapes while meeting the unique needs of its diverse clientele.
Cathay General Bancorp, the parent company of Cathay Bank, was founded in 1962 to serve the growing Chinese-American community in Los Angeles. This strategic focus on a niche demographic, often underserved by mainstream financial institutions, allowed it to establish a loyal customer base. Over the decades, the bank expanded its footprint beyond California to several states across the U.S., and even into Asia. By concentrating initially on commercial banking services such as loans to small and medium-sized businesses within the Asian community, Cathay General Bancorp capitalized on its deep cultural understandings and language skills. This approach enabled them to develop strong client relationships and to provide tailored financial solutions.
The core business model of Cathay General Bancorp is built on the principles of traditional banking, where deposits are taken from individuals and businesses, and these funds are then used to issue loans. The bank earns a significant portion of its revenue from the interest spread—the difference between the interest paid on deposits and the interest earned from loans. Additionally, Cathay generates income through fees for various services like processing loans, foreign exchange, and wealth management. Emphasizing prudent risk management and maintaining robust capital reserves, Cathay navigates the complex market dynamics while staying committed to its community-driven roots. Through these strategies, the bank continues to thrive, adapting to evolving financial landscapes while meeting the unique needs of its diverse clientele.
Q4 Results: Net income rose 16.5% quarter-over-quarter to $90.5 million, with EPS up 18.3% to $1.33.
Full-Year Growth: 2025 net income climbed 10.1% to $315.1 million.
Margin Strength: Net interest margin improved to 3.36% in Q4, with 2026 NIM expected between 3.4% and 3.5%.
Buybacks: 1.1 million shares were repurchased in Q4; a new buyback program is expected soon.
Loan & Deposit Growth: Gross loans grew $42 million in Q4; 2026 loan growth expected between 3.5% and 4.5%. Deposits up $373 million, with 2026 deposit growth projected at 4% to 5%.
Credit Trends: Nonaccrual loans declined, with net charge-offs down to $5.4 million and lower credit loss provisions.
