New Leadership Begins at Southside Bancshares in 2026

Southside Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: SBSI) entered a new era of executive governance on January 1, 2026, as Keith Donahoe officially assumed the roles of President and Chief Executive Officer. Succeeding Lee Gibson, Donahoe takes leadership of the Texas-based bank following a year characterized by strategic portfolio restructuring and the company’s recent dual listing on the NYSE Texas. This transition comes as the institution focuses on stabilizing deposit costs and navigating the financial objectives set for the 2026 fiscal year.

Latest Quarterly Results

For the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2025, Southside Bancshares reported consolidated revenue of $71.98 million and a net profit of $21.0 million. This represents a year-over-year revenue decrease of 36.8% compared to the fourth quarter of 2024. Net profit for the quarter declined by 3.7% from the $21.8 million reported in the same period the previous year.

Segment Highlights

• Loans: Total loans reached $4.18 billion, an increase of 1.1% from the previous quarter, led by activity in construction and commercial real estate.
• Securities: The company restructured its Available-for-Sale (AFS) municipal securities portfolio, resulting in a recognized loss of $7.3 million during the quarter.
• Deposits: Net deposits increased by $40.8 million, excluding public and brokered funds, bringing total deposits to $6.44 billion.
• Wealth Management: Trust fees contributed to the non-interest income total of $12.9 million for the quarter.

Financial Trends

Full Year Results Context

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, Southside Bancshares reported annual revenue of $246.3 million and a net profit of $69.2 million. These figures indicate a contraction in annual performance compared to the 2024 fiscal year, where net income was $88.5 million, representing a 21.8% year-over-year decrease. Net interest income for the full year 2025 trended lower at $214.6 million.

Business & Operations Update

On January 1, 2026, Keith Donahoe assumed the role of President and Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Lee Gibson. In November 2025, the company completed its dual listing on the NYSE Texas exchange. Operationally, the bank reduced its municipal securities concentration from 21% to 19% of the total portfolio to adjust interest rate sensitivity.

M&A or Strategic Moves

The company announced the scheduled redemption of $93.0 million in 3.75% subordinated notes. This transaction is finalized for February 15, 2026. No new mergers or acquisitions were disclosed in the latest reporting period.

Guidance & Outlook

Management indicated that the redemption of subordinated debt in February 2026 is expected to result in net interest margin expansion during the first quarter of 2026. Factors to watch include the continued stabilization of deposit costs and the execution of the company’s technology investment plan.

Performance Summary

Southside Bancshares stock moved 4.00% lower following its Q4 results. The company reported a quarterly net profit of $21.0 million and an annual profit contraction of 21.8%. Loan growth and portfolio restructuring remain primary operational signals.