United Community Banks Surpasses $1 Billion Revenue Milestone

United Community Banks has reported a landmark year, achieving over $1 billion in revenue for the first time in 2025. The institution's strategic pivot within the high-growth Florida market, combined with robust interest margins, positions it for continued strength. The question now is whether the bank can meet its ambitious targets for the current period.

The company's full-year 2025 results highlight significant financial progress. Revenue climbed 12% to exceed the $1 billion threshold. On a per-share basis, operating earnings (EPS) reached $2.71, marking an 18% year-over-year increase. Shareholder returns remain a priority, with a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share and a newly authorized $100 million share repurchase program for 2026.

The final quarter of the year further demonstrated this positive trajectory. Quarterly revenue came in at $278.4 million, surpassing market forecasts. Despite costs related to integration and other one-time items, the GAAP diluted earnings per share for Q4 stood at a solid $0.70.

Should investors sell immediately? Or is it worth buying United Community Banks?

Strategic Reorganization Fuels Florida Expansion

A key strategic move involved restructuring the crucial Florida operations. Management recently divided the region into two distinct units: North Florida and South Florida. This reorganization is designed to empower local leadership and accelerate growth in one of the bank's most promising markets. As of December 31, 2025, United Community Banks managed total assets of approximately $28 billion across 199 branches.

Margin Strength and Forward-Looking Guidance

The bank's net interest margin (NIM) showed notable resilience, improving by four basis points from the prior quarter to 3.62%. This metric is expected to see further gains, with management projecting an additional two to four basis point increase for the first quarter of 2026.

Looking ahead to the full 2026 fiscal year, the institution anticipates loan growth in the range of 5% to 7%. Operating expenses are forecast to rise by a controlled 3% to 3.5%. Investors can expect the next update on performance with the release of Q1 2026 results, scheduled for April 28.