Wintrust Financial's 2024 Success: Record Income, Loan Growth, and Strong Risk Management

Record Financial Performance:
- Wintrust Financial Corporation reported record net income of $695 million for the year 2024, up over 11.5% from 2023.
- The growth was driven by stable net interest margin, steady loan and deposit growth, and effective risk management strategies.

Loan and Deposit Growth:
- The company recorded $1 billion of loan growth and $1.1 billion of deposit growth in Q4 2024.
- This growth, at an annualized rate of 8% for loans and 9% for deposits, was supported by the company's differentiated business model and strong client relationships.

Credit Performance and Risk Management:
- Non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans decreased to 36 basis points, with charge-offs down to 13 basis points.
- The improvement in credit quality was attributed to enhanced underwriting, tighter loan structures, and proactive management of stressed portfolios like commercial premium finance.

Net Interest Income Stability:
- Net interest income increased by 4.5% quarter-over-quarter and 12% year-on-year, reaching a record high of $22.6 million.
- The stability in net interest margin was maintained despite lower interest rates due to effective asset and liability management.