White River Bancshares Q3 net income up 29%

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by Jeff Della Rosa ([email protected]) October 21, 2025 11:51 am 372 views 

White River Bancshares Co., the Fayetteville-based holding company for Signature Bank of Arkansas, posted Tuesday (Oct. 21) that net income increased by 29.12% to $3.53 million in the third quarter from $2.73 million in the same period last year.

Through the first three quarters of 2025, net income increased by 85.66% to $9.46 million from $5.09 million in the same period last year.

“Our third-quarter earnings are a direct reflection of the strength of our bank’s culture,” said Gary Head, chairman and CEO. “We’re demonstrating what’s possible when purpose-driven people come together to serve with integrity, build trust, and stay focused on long-term value — for both our customers and our shareholders. At the core of our culture is a deep commitment to building real relationships and a passion for truly serving our customers.”

Following are other third-quarter metrics compared to the same period in 2024.

  • Return on average assets rose to 0.95% from 0.91%.
  • Return on average equity increased to 13.07% from 11.33%.
  • Net interest margin increased to 3.66% from 3.32%.
  • Net interest income increased to $12.8 million from $9.43 million.
  • Total assets increased to $1.48 billion from $1.21 billion.
  • Net loans increased to $1.24 billion from $977 million.
  • Total deposits rose to $1.28 billion from $1.03 billion.

“Our deposit base remains strong and continues to grow, and I am proud of how our team has embraced the challenge of building a low-cost deposit franchise,” said Scott Sandlin, chief strategy officer. “Deposit gathering isn’t just a strategic priority — it’s becoming embedded in our banking mindset. It’s a regular part of our conversations across the organization, and there’s a shared understanding of how essential a strong deposit base is to supporting loan growth and strengthening customer relationships. That focus is paying off, with total deposits increasing 2.9% during the third quarter and 24.1% year-over-year.”

Founded in 2005, Signature Bank of Arkansas is based in Fayetteville and has locations in Fayetteville, Springdale, Bentonville, Rogers, Brinkley, Harrison and Jonesboro.

Shares of White River Bancshares (OTCQX: WRIV) were trading Tuesday at a 52-week high of $46.60, up 4 cents or 0.09%. In the past 52 weeks, the stock has ranged between $30 and $46.60.