Huntington Bancshares Incorporated (NASDAQ:HBAN) reported fourth-quarter adjusted earnings on Thursday that came in ahead of analysts’ expectations, though its shares slipped in pre-market trading as investors weighed the impact of acquisition-related charges.
The bank’s stock fell 2.40% before the open, despite adjusted earnings per share of $0.37 beating the consensus estimate of $0.33. On a reported basis, however, EPS was $0.30, reflecting $130 million in notable pre-tax items, largely tied to acquisition expenses. Net income for the quarter totaled $519 million, down 17% from the prior quarter and 2% lower than the same period a year earlier.
Net interest income increased 6% quarter on quarter and 14% year on year to $1.5 billion. Average total loans and leases rose 8% from the previous quarter to $146.6 billion, driven by a 12% increase in commercial lending and a 2% rise in consumer loans. Average deposits also grew, climbing 5% from the prior quarter to roughly $167 billion.
“Huntington delivered a strong fourth quarter, capping off an outstanding 2025, powered by focused execution and broad-based organic growth,” said Steve Steinour, chairman, president and CEO. “Our credit quality remains outstanding, consistent with our aggregate moderate-to-low risk profile.”
Credit metrics remained healthy, with net charge-offs at 0.24% of average total loans, just 2 basis points higher than the previous quarter. The Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio stood at 10.4% at quarter-end, compared with 10.6% in the prior quarter.
Huntington also highlighted recent strategic activity, noting it has completed its partnership with Veritex Holdings and expects to close its planned transaction with Cadence Bank on February 1, 2026, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals. Management said these moves are expected to accelerate growth across Texas and the broader southern U.S. market.