WSBF Reports 73% Year-Over-Year Increase in Q3 Earnings Driven by Higher Loan Yields, Stock Rises 5%
Stock Performance: Waterstone Financial, Inc. (WSBF) shares rose 5% following a strong earnings report for Q3 2025, outperforming the S&P 500's 2.9% growth during the same period.
Earnings Growth: The company reported a net income of 45 cents per share, a 73.1% increase from the previous year, with net interest income growing 28% year-over-year to $14.7 million.
Asset Quality and Efficiency: Waterstone's return on average assets (ROAA) improved to 1.4%, and the efficiency ratio in the Community Banking segment decreased significantly, indicating strong asset quality and operational efficiency.
Shareholder Returns: The company repurchased approximately 270,000 shares, boosting book value per share, and declared a quarterly dividend of 15 cents per share, reflecting a commitment to returning value to shareholders.
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Waterstone Financial Declares $0.15 Quarterly Cash Dividend per Share
- Dividend Declaration: On December 18, 2025, Waterstone Financial, Inc.'s Board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.15 per share, payable on February 2, 2026, reflecting the company's ongoing commitment to shareholder returns.
- Shareholder Record: The dividend will be paid to shareholders of record as of January 8, 2026, ensuring transparency and accountability in maintaining shareholder interests.
- Company Background: Waterstone Financial, Inc. serves as the holding company for WaterStone Bank, established in 1921, emphasizing its significant role in community-focused financial services.
- Business Expansion: WaterStone Bank operates 14 branch locations across southeastern Wisconsin, offering a comprehensive suite of personal and business banking products, thereby strengthening its competitive position in the local market.
Key Stock Updates for Caterpillar, Shopify, and Qualcomm
Caterpillar Inc. (CAT): Caterpillar's shares have outperformed the industry, with a significant backlog supporting growth despite earnings declines due to tariffs. The company anticipates a $1.6-$1.75 billion impact from tariffs in 2025 but expects growth from increased construction activities and commodity demand.
Shopify Inc. (SHOP): Shopify's stock has risen significantly, driven by an expanding merchant base and new AI-driven tools. However, the company faces challenges with gross margin pressure and higher operating expenses, which may impact profitability in the near term.
Qualcomm Inc. (QCOM): Qualcomm's shares have seen moderate growth, bolstered by advancements in AI capabilities and a strong automotive business. Nonetheless, competition in the mobile chipset market and trade tensions may hinder future profit potential.
Micro-cap Stocks: Waterstone Financial and Tucows have shown strong performance relative to their industries, with Waterstone benefiting from improved net interest margins and Tucows leveraging high-margin services. Both companies face challenges, including rising loan stress for Waterstone and operational risks for Tucows.
