How consistent is CBAN's earnings growth trend?

Colony Bankcorp (CBAN) has demonstrated a generally upward trend in earnings growth over the past periods reported. Here's a detailed analysis:

1. **Recent Quarterly Performance**:
- In the most recent quarter ending on December 31, 2024, CBAN reported a net income of $7.43 million.
- The company's diluted EPS for the same quarter was not provided, but the net income growth rate was significant at 32.76%.
- CBAN's total revenue for the quarter was $30.78 million, reflecting a 9.23% year-over-year growth.

|code|Ticker|Name|Date|Net Income YoY|Total Revenue YoY|Diluted EPS YoY|market_code|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|CBAN|CBAN.N|Colony Bankcorp|2024 Q1|5.750545310331153|-0.304672830977433|3.448275862068969|169|
|CBAN|CBAN.N|Colony Bankcorp|2024 Q2|3.244058845718597|-0.8068815981232005|3.3333333333333366|169|
|CBAN|CBAN.N|Colony Bankcorp|2024 Q3|-3.0151619572708475|-2.4404376427281096|-3.030303030303033|169|
|CBAN|CBAN.N|Colony Bankcorp|2024 Q4|32.76170060735977|9.233826608467298||169|

|code|Ticker|Name|Date|Total Revenue|Net Income|market_code|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|CBAN|CBAN.N|Colony Bankcorp|2024 Q1|2.8141E7|5333000|169|
|CBAN|CBAN.N|Colony Bankcorp|2024 Q2|2.7906E7|5474000|169|
|CBAN|CBAN.N|Colony Bankcorp|2024 Q3|2.8623E7|5629000|169|
|CBAN|CBAN.N|Colony Bankcorp|2024 Q4|3.0781E7|7432000|169|

|code|Ticker|Name|Date|Diluted EPS YoY|Diluted EPS|market_code|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|CBAN|CBAN.N|Colony Bankcorp|2024 Q1|3.448275862068969|0.3|169|
|CBAN|CBAN.N|Colony Bankcorp|2024 Q2|3.3333333333333366|0.31|169|
|CBAN|CBAN.N|Colony Bankcorp|2024 Q3|-3.030303030303033|0.32|169|

2. **Historical Performance**:
- In the fiscal year 2024, CBAN reported a net income of $23.9 million, an increase from $21.7 million in 2023.
- The net income per share (EPS) for 2024 was $1.36, up from $1.24 in 2023.
- Operating net income for 2024 was $25.7 million, an increase from $22.6 million in 2023, indicating effective cost management and operational efficiency.
- Net interest income for 2024 was $76.8 million, slightly lower than the $79.0 million in 2023, primarily due to changes in interest rates and loan volumes.
3. **Dividend Growth and Stability**:
- CBAN has a history of dividend growth, with an annual increase of 2.99% over the last 5 years.
- The company's payout ratio is 31%, which suggests a healthy balance between dividend payments and earnings retention.
4. **Future Outlook and Analyst Ratings**:
- Analysts have a positive outlook on CBAN, with a consensus rating of "Buy" and a strong buy rating from some analysts.
- The average analyst price target is $14.01, indicating potential upside from the current price.
5. **Strategic Initiatives and Financial Health**:
- CBAN's acquisition of The Ellerbee Agency is expected to enhance its market presence and customer reach, potentially contributing to ongoing success.
- The company maintains a fair financial health, as indicated by analysts' predictions of continued profitability.

In conclusion, CBAN's earnings growth trend has been consistent and positive over the reported periods, driven by factors such as strategic acquisitions, effective cost management, and a strong dividend history. The company's future outlook appears optimistic, supported by positive analyst ratings and a robust strategic framework.