CLST

Shares of Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. CLST have gained 0.3% since the company reported results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, underperforming the S&P 500 index, which advanced 6.1% over the same period. Over the past month, the stock has gained 1.5% compared with the 2.4% growth for the broader market, indicating that investors have taken a more measured view of the company's latest results. Catalyst reported second-quarter 2026 net income of 14 cents per share, which remained flat year over year. Net interest income rose 5% to $2.6 million from $2.5 million a year earlier, supported by higher interest income. Total interest income increased 3.6% to $3.6 million, while non-interest income edged up 4.9% to $0.4 million. Total non-interest expense climbed 9.3% to $2.4 million, reflecting higher operating costs, including merger-related expenses. The company’s net income of $0.5 million remained essentially flat year over year. Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. Quote Total assets increased to $290 million at June 30, 2026, from $273.8 million a year earlier. Deposits rose 7.8% year over year to $196.4 million, while net loans receivable declined 2.7% to $160.6 million. On a linked-quarter basis, total loans decreased 2.9% to $162.8 million, primarily due to lower residential and construction lending, partly offset by growth in commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans. Commercial real estate loans increased 11% from the prior quarter, aided by the conversion of a $5 million construction loan into an amortizing commercial real estate loan, while construction and land loans declined 19%. Credit quality improved during the quarter. Non-performing assets fell 14% sequentially to $2.3 million, reducing the ratio of non-performing assets to total assets to 0.80% from 0.94%. Non-performing loans declined to 1.43% of total loans from 1.64%. The allowance for credit losses on loans decreased to $2.2 million, or 1.34% of total loans, from 1.40% in the prior quarter. Catalyst recorded a $0.1 million reversal of credit losses, compared with a $0.07 million reversal in the first quarter. Net interest margin expanded three basis points sequentially to 3.86%. President and Chief Executive Officer Joe Zanco said that while loan balances declined during the first half of 2026, credit quality remained sound and the company continued to add new deposit customers. He also expressed optimism about Louisiana's economic outlook and highlighted the company's entry into the Southwest Louisiana market following the Lakeside acquisition. Quarterly results reflected the impact of merger-related expenses associated with the acquisition of Lakeside Bancshares, which totaled $0.09 million before taxes, down from $0.1 million in the previous quarter. Higher non-interest expense also reflected increased advertising, marketing, training, education and annual report distribution costs. Deposit growth continued to be driven by high-yield savings accounts, while seasonal declines in public fund deposits reduced average interest-bearing deposit balances and contributed to lower interest expense. Catalyst completed the acquisition of Lakeside Bancshares, Inc. and its subsidiary, Lakeside Bank, on July 14, 2026, expanding its presence into Southwest Louisiana. Management estimated that, following the merger, consolidated shareholders' equity would be approximately $78.7 million, representing about 12.5% of total assets based on June 30, 2026 data. During the quarter, the company also repurchased 24,206 shares at an average price of $16.20 per share under its existing buyback program before pausing repurchases during merger-related due diligence and negotiations. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (CLST): Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

OPELOUSAS, La., July 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: "CLST") (the "Company"), the parent company for Catalyst Bank (the "Bank") (www.catalystbank.com), reported net income of $524,000, or $0.14 per diluted common share ("diluted EPS"), for the second quarter of 2026, compared to net income of $558,000, or $0.15 diluted EPS, for the first quarter of 2026. On July 14, 2026, the Company completed the acquisition of Lakeside Bancshares, Inc. and its subsidiary, Lakeside Bank (collectively referred to as "Lakeside"). The Company's reported net income for 2026 includes certain expenses related to Lakeside's merger with and into the Company and the Bank. These expenses are referred to as "merger-related expenses" and totaled $87,000 (pre-tax) for the second quarter of 2026, compared to $95,000 (pre-tax) for the first quarter of 2026. "Although we've seen a decline in loans through the first half of the year, credit quality remains sound and we continue to gain new deposit customers," said Joe Zanco, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Bank. "We're excited about Louisiana's economic future and are off to a running start in our new, Southwest Louisiana market." Loans Loans totaled $162.8 million at June 30, 2026, down $892,000, or 1%, from March 31, 2026. The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's loan portfolio as of the dates indicated. During the second quarter of 2026, a $5.0 million construction loan was converted to an amortizing commercial real estate loan. The loan is included in the health service facilities category presented in the following table. The following table presents certain major segments of our commercial real estate, construction and land, and commercial and industrial loan balances as of the dates indicated. Multi-family residential construction loan growth was largely driven by new apartment homes in Lafayette Parish. Credit Quality and Allowance for Credit Losses At June 30, 2026, non-performing assets ("NPAs") totaled $2.3 million, down $385,000, or 14%, compared to NPAs of $2.7 million at March 31, 2026. The decline in NPAs was primarily due to the pay-off of a substandard commercial real estate loan that was individually evaluated for credit losses as of March 31, 2026. The ratio of NPAs to total assets was 0.80% and 0.94% at June 30 and March 31, 2026, respectively. Non-performing loans ("NPLs") were 1.43% and 1.64% of total loans at June 30 and March 31, 2026, respectively. At June 30, 2026, 96% of total NPLs were one- to four-family residential mortgage loans, compared to 82% at March 31, 2026. At June 30, 2026, the allowance for credit losses on loans totaled $2.2 million, or 1.34% of total loans, compared to $2.3 million, or 1.40% of total loans, at March 31, 2026. The Company recorded a $104,000 reversal of provision for credit losses for the second quarter of 2026, compared to a $70,000 reversal for the first quarter of 2026. The reversal of expected credit losses in the second quarter of 2026 was largely driven by a decline in construction and land loan balances as a result of a $5.0 million construction loan converting to an amortizing commercial real estate loan and a decline in the amount of classified commercial real estate loans during the second quarter of 2026. The reversal of expected credit losses in the first quarter of 2026 was primarily driven by declines in commercial and industrial and residential loan balances. Net loan charge-offs totaled $1,000 during the second quarter of 2026, compared to net loan charge-offs of $37,000 during the first quarter of 2026. Net loan charge-offs during the first quarter of 2026 included a $28,000 charge-off of a commercial line of credit. Investment Securities Total investment securities were $67.1 million, or 23% of total assets, at June 30, 2026, up $3.9 million, or 6%, compared to March 31, 2026. During the second quarter of 2026, we purchased $6.0 million of subordinated debt issued by bank holding companies. The issuers are financially strong, publicly traded companies based in the southern United States. The weighted average yield of the securities purchased during the second quarter of 2026 was 6.3%. We did not purchase investment securities in the first quarter of 2026. Deposits Total deposits were $196.4 million at June 30, 2026, up $1.0 million, or 1%, from March 31, 2026. Total deposits averaged $198.8 million during the second quarter of 2026, compared to $198.2 million during the first quarter of 2026. The ratio of the Company's total loans to total deposits was 83% and 84% at June 30 and March 31, 2026, respectively. The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's deposits as of the dates indicated. Growth in high-yield savings accounts has been a primary driver of deposit growth during both the first and second quarters of 2026. Total public fund deposits were $27.4 million, or 14% of total deposits, at June 30, 2026, compared to $29.8 million, or 15% of total deposits, at March 31, 2026. During the second quarter of 2026, total public fund deposits averaged $30.1 million, compared to $35.6 million during the first quarter of 2026. The decline in public fund deposits was largely due to seasonal fluctuations. Capital and Share Repurchases At June 30 and March 31, 2026, consolidated shareholders' equity totaled $82.5 million and $82.2 million, or 28.5% of total assets, respectively. Following the merger of Lakeside with and into the Company and the Bank, consolidated shareholders' equity is estimated to be approximately $78.7 million, or 12.5% of total assets, based on data as of June 30, 2026. The Company repurchased 24,206 shares of its common stock at an average cost per share of $16.20 during the second quarter of 2026, compared to 16,614 shares at an average cost per share of $15.71 during the first quarter of 2026. The Company paused share repurchases while conducting merger-related due diligence and negotiations. During the fourth quarter of 2025, the Company announced our sixth share repurchase plan (the "November 2025 Repurchase Plan"). Under the November 2025 Repurchase Plan, the Company may purchase up to 205,000 shares, or approximately 5% of the Company's outstanding common stock. At June 30, 2026, 148,091 shares of the Company's common stock were available for repurchase under the November 2025 Repurchase Plan. Since the announcement of our first share repurchase plan on January 26, 2023 and through June 30, 2026, the Company has repurchased a total of 1,255,909 shares of its common stock, or 24% of the common shares originally issued, at an average cost per share of $12.19. At June 30, 2026, the Company had common shares outstanding of 4,034,091. Net Interest Income The net interest margin for the second quarter of 2026 was 3.86%, up three basis points compared to the prior quarter. For the second quarter of 2026, the average yield on interest-earning assets was 5.34%, down two basis points from the prior quarter, and the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities was 2.31%, down four basis points from the first quarter of 2026. Net interest income for the second quarter of 2026 was $2.6 million, up $46,000, or 2%, compared to the first quarter of 2026. Total interest income was up $14,000, or less than 1%, in the second quarter of 2026 compared to the prior quarter largely due to an increase in income on investment securities, cash and due from banks, and other interest earning assets, which was mostly offset by a decline in interest income on loans. During March 2026, a $5.9 million commercial and industrial loan relationship paid off after the sale of the borrower's business. In the same month, the Company purchased $817,000 of stock in the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, which yields a statutory rate of 6.0%. During the second quarter of 2026, as previously mentioned, the Company purchased subordinated debt with an average yield of 6.3%. Total interest expense decreased $32,000, or 3%, in the second quarter of 2026 compared to the prior quarter. The decline in interest expense was mainly due to a decline in the average volume of total interest-bearing liabilities. Total average interest-bearing deposits were down $2.4 million, or 1%, during the second quarter of 2026 compared to the prior quarter, largely due to fluctuations in public funds. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the Company's total dollar amount of interest income from average interest-earning assets and the resulting yields, as well as the interest expense on average interest-bearing liabilities, expressed both in dollars and rates, and the net interest margin. Taxable equivalent ("TE") yields have been calculated using a marginal tax rate of 21%. All average balances are based on daily balances. Non-interest Expense Non-interest expense for the second quarter of 2026 totaled $2.4 million, up $97,000, or 4%, compared to the first quarter of 2026. Non-interest expense included merger-related expenses of $87,000 for the second quarter of 2026, compared to $95,000 for the first quarter of 2026. Professional fees for the second quarter of 2026 totaled $175,000 and included $64,000 of merger-related expenses. For the first quarter of 2026, professional fees totaled $185,000 and included $95,000 of merger-related expenses. Excluding merger-related expenses, professional fees increased during the second quarter of 2026 compared to the prior quarter primarily due to expenses associated with the Company's annual meeting and annual report. Advertising and marketing expense for the second quarter of 2026 was $47,000, up $14,000, or 42%, compared to the prior quarter largely due to merger-related expenses. Other non-interest expense totaled $289,000 for the second quarter of 2026, up $55,000, or 24%, from the prior quarter. The majority of the increase was due to training and education expenses and annual report distribution costs. Other non-interest expense for the second quarter of 2026 also included $8,000 of merger-related expenses. Income Tax Expense Income tax expense for the second quarter of 2026 totaled $152,000, up $26,000, or 21%, compared to the first quarter of 2026. The Company's effective tax rate was 22.5% for the second quarter of 2026, compared to 18.4% for the first quarter of 2026. The increase in income tax expense and the effective tax rate for the second quarter of 2026 was mainly due to the tax impact of non-deductible merger-related expenses. About Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: CLST) is a Louisiana corporation and registered bank holding company for Catalyst Bank, its wholly-owned subsidiary, with $290.0 million in assets at June 30, 2026. Catalyst Bank, formerly St. Landry Homestead Federal Savings Bank, has been in operation in the Acadiana region of south-central Louisiana since 1922. Catalyst Bank offers commercial and retail banking products with a focus on fueling business and improving lives in the communities we serve. To learn more about Catalyst Bancorp and Catalyst Bank, visit www.catalystbank.com, or the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission, www.sec.gov. Forward-looking Statements This news release reflects industry conditions, Company performance and financial results and contains "forward-looking statements,' which may include forecasts of our financial results and condition, expectations for our operations and businesses, and our assumptions for those forecasts and expectations. Do not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risk factors and uncertainties which could cause the Company's actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results and expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements are described under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Supervision and Regulation" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, and in other documents subsequently filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, available at the SEC's website and the Company's website, each of which are referenced above. To the extent that statements in this news release relate to future plans, objectives, financial results or performance by the Company, these statements are deemed to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are generally identified by use of words such as "may," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "will," "should," "plan," "estimate," "predict," "continue" and "potential" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements represent management's beliefs, based upon information available at the time the statements are made, with regard to the matters addressed; they are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties that change over time and could cause actual results or financial condition to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such statements. All information is as of the date of this news release. Except to the extent required by applicable law or regulation, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statement for any reason. For more information:Joe Zanco, President and CEO(337) 948-3033 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/catalyst-bancorp-inc-announces-2026-second-quarter-results-302838299.html

OPELOUSAS, La., April 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: "CLST") (the "Company"), the parent company for Catalyst Bank (the "Bank") (www.catalystbank.com), reported net income of $558,000, or $0.15 per diluted common share ("diluted EPS"), for the first quarter of 2026, compared to net income of $456,000, or $0.13 diluted EPS, for the fourth quarter of 2025. The Company's net income for the first quarter of 2026 included professional fees of $95,000 (pre-tax) related to our agreement to acquire Lakeside Bancshares, Inc. and its subsidiary, Lakeside Bank (collectively referred to as "Lakeside"). "Our team is fully engaged in preparing for our growth in Southwest Louisiana through the Lakeside acquisition," said Joe Zanco, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Bank. "At the same time, we remain focused on winning new business organically and expanding existing relationships. As a result of our team's efforts, we continue to see improvement in our financial performance." Loans Loans totaled $163.7 million at March 31, 2026, down $6.5 million, or 4%, from December 31, 2025. The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's loan portfolio as of the dates indicated. During the first quarter of 2026, a $5.9 million commercial and industrial loan relationship paid off after the sale of the borrower's business. The following table presents certain major segments of our commercial real estate, construction and land, and commercial and industrial loan balances as of the dates indicated. A $1.6 million construction loan, included in the health service facilities category in the table above, converted to a commercial real estate loan during the first quarter of 2026. Multi-family residential construction loan growth was largely driven by new apartment homes in Lafayette Parish. Credit Quality and Allowance for Credit Losses At March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, non-performing assets ("NPAs") totaled $2.7 million. The ratio of NPAs to total assets was 0.94% and 0.95% at March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively. Non-performing loans ("NPLs") were 1.64% and 1.55% of total loans at March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively. During the first quarter of 2026, a $304,000 commercial real estate loan was placed on non-accrual status. At March 31, 2026, 82% of total NPLs were one- to four-family residential mortgage loans, compared to 95% at December 31, 2025. At March 31, 2026, the allowance for credit losses on loans totaled $2.3 million, or 1.40% of total loans, compared to $2.4 million, or 1.39% of total loans, at December 31, 2025. The Company recorded a $70,000 reversal of provision for credit losses for the first quarter of 2026, compared to a $96,000 provision for credit losses for the fourth quarter of 2025. The reversal of expected credit losses recorded in the first quarter of 2026 was primarily driven by declines in commercial and industrial and residential loan balances. Net loan charge-offs totaled $37,000 during the first quarter of 2026, compared to net charge-offs of $42,000 during the fourth quarter of 2025. Net loan charge-offs in 2026 included a $28,000 charge-off of a commercial line of credit. Investment Securities Total investment securities were $63.1 million, or 22% of total assets, at March 31, 2026, down $2.3 million, or 3%, compared to December 31, 2025. We did not purchase investment securities in the first quarter of 2026. During the fourth quarter of 2025, we purchased $7.4 million of government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities. The weighted average yield of the securities purchased during the fourth quarter of 2025 was 4.39% at March 31, 2026. Deposits Total deposits were $195.4 million at March 31, 2026, up $10.1 million, or 5%, from December 31, 2025. Total deposits averaged $198.2 million during the first quarter of 2026, compared to $181.5 million during the fourth quarter of 2025. The ratio of the Company's total loans to total deposits was 84% and 92% at March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively. The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's deposits as of the dates indicated. The increase in total average deposits for the first quarter compared to the prior quarter and total deposits at the end of each period shown in the table above was driven by a mix of public and non-public deposits. Total public fund deposits were $29.8 million, or 15% of total deposits, at March 31, 2026, compared to $26.4 million, or 14% of total deposits, at December 31, 2025. During the first quarter of 2026, total public fund deposits averaged $35.6 million, compared to $24.7 million during the fourth quarter of 2025. The increases were largely due to seasonal fluctuations. Capital and Share Repurchases At March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, consolidated shareholders' equity totaled $82.2 million, or 28.5% of total assets, and $81.7 million, or 28.9% of total assets, respectively. The Company repurchased 16,614 shares of its common stock at an average cost per share of $15.71 during the first quarter of 2026, compared to 54,693 shares at an average cost per share of $14.76 during the fourth quarter of 2025. The Company paused share repurchases temporarily during the first quarter of 2026 while conducting due diligence and negotiations related to our agreement to acquire Lakeside. During the fourth quarter of 2025, the Company announced our sixth share repurchase plan (the "November 2025 Repurchase Plan"). Under the November 2025 Repurchase Plan, the Company may purchase up to 205,000 shares, or approximately 5%, of the Company's outstanding common stock. At March 31, 2026, 172,297 shares of the Company's common stock were available for repurchase under the November 2025 Repurchase Plan. We expect to resume repurchases during the second quarter of 2026. Since the announcement of our first share repurchase plan on January 26, 2023 and through March 31, 2026, the Company has repurchased a total of 1,231,703 shares of its common stock, or 23% of the common shares originally issued, at an average cost per share of $12.11. At March 31, 2026, the Company had common shares outstanding of 4,058,297. Net Interest Income The net interest margin for the first quarter of 2026 was 3.83%, down eight basis points compared to the prior quarter. For the first quarter of 2026, the average yield on interest-earning assets was 5.36%, down 17 basis points from the prior quarter, and the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities was 2.35%, down 15 basis points from the fourth quarter of 2025. Net interest income for the first quarter of 2026 was $2.5 million, up $38,000, or 2%, compared to the fourth quarter of 2025. Total interest income was up $22,000, or 1%, in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the prior quarter largely due to an increase in income on cash and due from banks, which was partially offset by a decline in interest income on loans. The change in interest income was largely the result of an increase in the volume of interest earning cash, which was mainly fueled by deposit growth during first quarter of 2026. Total interest expense decreased $16,000, or 2%, in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the prior quarter. The decline in interest expense was mainly due to lower borrowings expense. We paid off a short-term Federal Home Loan Bank advance during the first quarter of 2026. The average cost of interest-bearing deposits was 2.30% during the first quarter of 2026, down 15 basis points from the prior quarter. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the Company's total dollar amount of interest income from average interest-earning assets and the resulting yields, as well as the interest expense on average interest-bearing liabilities, expressed both in dollars and rates, and the net interest margin. Taxable equivalent ("TE") yields have been calculated using a marginal tax rate of 21%. All average balances are based on daily balances. Non-interest Income Non-interest income for the first quarter of 2026 totaled $352,000, down $10,000, or 3%, compared to the fourth quarter of 2025, primarily due to a decline in income from service charges on deposit accounts. Non-interest Expense Non-interest expense for the first quarter of 2026 totaled $2.3 million, up $61,000, or 3%, compared to the fourth quarter of 2025. Professional fees for the first quarter of 2026 totaled $185,000, up $87,000, or 89%, from the prior quarter. The Company incurred $95,000 (pre-tax) of professional fees during the first quarter of 2026 related to our agreement to acquire Lakeside. About Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: CLST) is a Louisiana corporation and registered bank holding company for Catalyst Bank, its wholly-owned subsidiary, with $288.5 million in assets at March 31, 2026. Catalyst Bank, formerly St. Landry Homestead Federal Savings Bank, has been in operation in the Acadiana region of south-central Louisiana since 1922. With a focus on fueling business and improving lives throughout the region, Catalyst Bank offers commercial and retail banking products through our six full-service branches located in Carencro, Eunice, Lafayette, Opelousas, and Port Barre. To learn more about Catalyst Bancorp and Catalyst Bank, visit www.catalystbank.com, or the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission, www.sec.gov. Forward-looking Statements This news release reflects industry conditions, Company performance and financial results and contains "forward-looking statements,' which may include forecasts of our financial results and condition, expectations for our operations and businesses, and our assumptions for those forecasts and expectations. Do not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risk factors and uncertainties which could cause the Company's actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results and expectation expressed in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements are described under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Supervision and Regulation" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, and in other documents subsequently filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, available at the SEC's website and the Company's website, each of which are referenced above. To the extent that statements in this news release relate to future plans, objectives, financial results or performance by the Company, these statements are deemed to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are generally identified by use of words such as "may," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "will," "should," "plan," "estimate," "predict," "continue" and "potential" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements represent management's beliefs, based upon information available at the time the statements are made, with regard to the matters addressed; they are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties that change over time and could cause actual results or financial condition to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such statements. All information is as of the date of this news release. Except to the extent required by applicable law or regulation, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statement for any reason. For more information: Joe Zanco, President and CEO (337) 948-3033 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/catalyst-bancorp-inc-announces-2026-first-quarter-results-302758099.html

OPELOUSAS, La., Jan. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: "CLST") (the "Company"), the parent company for Catalyst Bank (the "Bank") (www.catalystbank.com), reported net income of $456,000, or $0.13 per diluted common share ("diluted EPS"), for the fourth quarter of 2025, compared to net income of $489,000, or $0.13 diluted EPS, for the third quarter of 2025. For the year ended December 31, 2025, the Company reported net income of $2.1 million, or $0.56 diluted EPS, compared to a net loss of $3.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. "Loan growth was strong during the quarter," said Joe Zanco, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Bank. "We're also pleased to see our net interest margin widen as funding costs declined." Loans Loans totaled $170.2 million at December 31, 2025, up $5.4 million, or 3%, from September 30, 2025. The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's loan portfolio as of the dates indicated. During the fourth quarter of 2025, a $2.2 million construction loan was converted to a fixed-rate residential mortgage loan. The increase in commercial and industrial loans during the fourth quarter of 2025 was largely driven by growth within the oilfield services segment of our loan portfolio. The following table presents certain major segments of our commercial real estate, construction and land, and commercial and industrial loan balances as of the dates indicated. Credit Quality and Allowance for Credit Losses At December 31, 2025, non-performing assets ("NPAs") totaled $2.7 million, compared to $1.9 million at September 30, 2025. The increase in NPAs was mainly due to an increase in non-accruing one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. The ratio of NPAs to total assets was 0.95% and 0.67% at December 31 and September 30, 2025, respectively. Non-performing loans ("NPLs") were 1.55% and 1.11% of total loans at December 31 and September 30, 2025, respectively. At December 31, 2025, 95% of total NPLs were one- to four-family residential mortgage loans, compared to 99% at September 30, 2025. At December 31, 2025, the allowance for credit losses on loans totaled $2.4 million, or 1.39% of total loans, compared to $2.4 million, or 1.45% of total loans, at September 30, 2025. The provision for credit losses was $96,000 for the fourth quarter of 2025, compared to a $36,000 reversal of provision for credit losses for the third quarter of 2025. The provision for credit losses during the fourth quarter of 2025 was primarily driven by an increase in construction loan commitments and loan growth. Net loan charge-offs totaled $42,000 during the fourth quarter of 2025, compared to net charge-offs of $2,000 during the third quarter of 2025. Net loan charge-offs during 2025 have been primarily related to residential mortgage loans and overdrawn deposit accounts. Investment Securities Total investment securities were $65.4 million, or 23% of total assets, at December 31, 2025, up $5.6 million, or 9%, compared to September 30, 2025. During the fourth quarter of 2025, we purchased $5.0 million of variable-rate and $2.4 million of fixed-rate government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities. The weighted average yield of the securities purchased during the fourth quarter was 4.63% at December 31, 2025. Deposits Total deposits were $185.3 million at December 31, 2025, down $1.1 million, or 1%, from September 30, 2025. Total deposits averaged $181.5 million during the fourth quarter of 2025, compared to $179.8 million during the third quarter of 2025. The ratio of the Company's total loans to total deposits was 92% and 88% at December 31 and September 30 2025, respectively. The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's deposits as of the dates indicated. The increase in non-interest-bearing demand deposits was primarily due to an increase in commercial deposits. The decline in interest-bearing demand deposits was primarily due to a decrease in public fund deposits. Total public fund deposits amounted to $26.4 million, or 14% of total deposits, at December 31, 2025, compared to $30.5 million, or 16% of total deposits, at September 30, 2025. At December 31 and September 30, 2025, approximately 59% and 64%, respectively, of our total public fund deposits consisted of non-interest-bearing and interest-bearing demand deposits. The decline in money market deposits was largely driven by decreases in balances of high-yield, personal deposits. Capital and Share Repurchases At December 31 and September 30, 2025, consolidated shareholders' equity totaled $81.7 million, or 28.9% of total assets, and $81.6 million, or 28.7% of total assets, respectively. The Company repurchased 54,693 shares of its common stock at an average cost per share of $14.76 during the fourth quarter of 2025, compared to 13,212 shares at an average cost per share of $12.93 during the third quarter of 2025. During the fourth quarter of 2025, the Company completed repurchases under the November 2024 Repurchase Plan and announced the Company's sixth share repurchase plan (the "November 2025 Repurchase Plan"). Under the November 2025 Repurchase Plan, the Company may purchase up to 205,000 shares, or approximately 5%, of the Company's outstanding common stock. At December 31, 2025, 188,911 shares of the Company's common stock were available for repurchase under the November 2025 Repurchase Plan. Since the announcement of our first share repurchase plan on January 26, 2023 and through December 31, 2025, the Company has repurchased a total of 1,215,089 shares of its common stock, or 23% of the common shares originally issued, at an average cost per share of $12.06. At December 31, 2025, the Company had common shares outstanding of 4,074,911. Net Interest Income The net interest margin for the fourth quarter of 2025 was 3.91%, up three basis points compared to the prior quarter. For the fourth quarter of 2025, the average yield on interest-earning assets was 5.53%, down three basis points from the prior quarter, and the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities was 2.50%, down 12 basis points from the third quarter of 2025. Net interest income for the fourth quarter of 2025 was $2.5 million, up $57,000, or 2%, compared to the third quarter of 2025. Total interest income was up $35,000, or 1%, in the fourth quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter largely due to an increase in income on investment securities, which was partially offset by a decline in interest income on cash and due from banks. The change in interest income was largely the result of bond purchases during the third and fourth quarters of 2025. Total interest expense decreased $22,000, or 2%, in the fourth quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter. The decline in interest expense was mainly due to lower interest rates on public fund deposits and high-yield savings accounts during the fourth quarter of 2025. The decline in interest expense on deposits was partially offset by an increase in interest expense on borrowings due to an increase in the volume of short-term FHLB advances during the fourth quarter of 2025. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the Company's total dollar amount of interest income from average interest-earning assets and the resulting yields, as well as the interest expense on average interest-bearing liabilities, expressed both in dollars and rates, and the net interest margin. Taxable equivalent ("TE") yields have been calculated using a marginal tax rate of 21%. All average balances are based on daily balances. Non-interest Income Non-interest income for the fourth quarter of 2025 totaled $362,000, up $47,000, or 15%, compared to the third quarter of 2025. During the third quarter of 2025, we corrected an immaterial technical error related to fees charged for the use of foreign ATMs and refunded $30,000 of fees that were applied in error. The refunded fees decreased income from service charges on deposit accounts for the third quarter of 2025. Income from bank-owned life insurance increased by $11,000, or 9%, for the fourth quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter largely due to an internal exchange of certain existing policies. Non-interest Expense Non-interest expense for the fourth quarter of 2025 totaled $2.2 million, up $20,000, or 1%, compared to the third quarter of 2025. Salaries and employee benefits expense for the fourth quarter of 2025 totaled $1.3 million, up $22,000, or 2%, from the prior quarter. The increase was largely due to a new hire, an increase in compensation expense related to the Employee Stock Ownership Plan due to a rise in the Company's average stock price, and annual raises that were made effective during the fourth quarter of 2025. Occupancy and equipment expense for the fourth quarter of 2025 totaled $196,000, down $24,000, or 11%, from the prior quarter. During the third quarter of 2025, the Company incurred additional repairs and maintenance costs for a vandalized ATM. During the fourth quarter of 2025, landscaping and utilities expenses were down driven by cooler temperatures during the last three months of the year. Foreclosed assets expense for the fourth quarter of 2025 totaled $17,000, up $10,000 from the prior quarter. In the fourth quarter of 2025, the Company incurred a loss of $14,000 on the sale of foreclosed real estate. The third quarter of 2025 included a $4,000 write-down on foreclosed assets. About Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: CLST) is a Louisiana corporation and registered bank holding company for Catalyst Bank, its wholly-owned subsidiary, with $282.9 million in assets at December 31, 2025. Catalyst Bank, formerly St. Landry Homestead Federal Savings Bank, has been in operation in the Acadiana region of south-central Louisiana since 1922. With a focus on fueling business and improving lives throughout the region, Catalyst Bank offers commercial and retail banking products through our six full-service branches located in Carencro, Eunice, Lafayette, Opelousas, and Port Barre. To learn more about Catalyst Bancorp and Catalyst Bank, visit www.catalystbank.com, or the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission, www.sec.gov. Forward-looking Statements This news release reflects industry conditions, Company performance and financial results and contains "forward-looking statements,' which may include forecasts of our financial results and condition, expectations for our operations and businesses, and our assumptions for those forecasts and expectations. Do not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risk factors and uncertainties which could cause the Company's actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results and expectation expressed in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements are described under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Supervision and Regulation" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, and in other documents subsequently filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, available at the SEC's website and the Company's website, each of which are referenced above. To the extent that statements in this news release relate to future plans, objectives, financial results or performance by the Company, these statements are deemed to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are generally identified by use of words such as "may," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "will," "should," "plan," "estimate," "predict," "continue" and "potential" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements represent management's beliefs, based upon information available at the time the statements are made, with regard to the matters addressed; they are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties that change over time and could cause actual results or financial condition to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such statements. All information is as of the date of this news release. Except to the extent required by applicable law or regulation, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statement for any reason. For more information: Joe Zanco, President and CEO (337) 948-3033 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/catalyst-bancorp-inc-announces-2025-fourth-quarter-results-302673361.html

OPELOUSAS, La., Oct. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: "CLST") (the "Company"), the parent company for Catalyst Bank (the "Bank") (www.catalystbank.com), reported net income of $489,000 for the third quarter of 2025, compared to net income of $521,000 for the second quarter of 2025. "Our team has done a good job attracting new deposit customers in 2025," said Joe Zanco, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Bank. "While loan growth has been slow, we are beginning to see signs of increased economic activity, which we expect will spur loan growth opportunities in the coming quarters." Loans Loans totaled $164.8 million at September 30, 2025, down $2.8 million, or 2%, from June 30, 2025. The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's loan portfolio as of the dates indicated. In the third quarter of 2025, a $4.6 million construction loan paid-off and we received $1.0 million of total pay-downs on a commercial and industrial relationship that was downgraded to substandard during the first quarter of 2025. As of September 30, 2025, the classified commercial and industrial relationship totaled $2.1 million and all loans within the relationship were current and performing. Pay-offs and pay-downs during the third quarter of 2025 were partially offset by growth within the health and oilfield services segments of our loan portfolio. The following table presents certain major segments of our commercial real estate, construction and land, and commercial and industrial loan balances as of the dates indicated. Credit Quality and Allowance for Credit Losses At September 30, 2025, non-performing assets ("NPAs") totaled $1.9 million, compared to $1.8 million at June 30, 2025. The ratio of NPAs to total assets was 0.67% and 0.64% at September 30 and June 30, 2025, respectively. Non-performing loans ("NPLs") comprised 1.11% and 1.00% of total loans at September 30 and June 30, 2025, respectively. At September 30 and June 30, 2025, 99% of total NPLs were one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. At September 30 and June 30, 2025, the allowance for credit losses on loans totaled $2.4 million, or 1.45% of total loans. For the third quarter of 2025, we recorded a reversal of provision for credit losses of $36,000 largely due to a reduction in expected credit losses on individually evaluated loans and a decline in total loans. Net loan charge-offs totaled $2,000 during the third quarter of 2025, compared to net charge-offs of $42,000 during the second quarter of 2025. Net loan charge-offs during 2025 have been primarily related to residential mortgage loans and overdrawn deposit accounts. Investment Securities Total investment securities were $59.8 million, or 21% of total assets, at September 30, 2025, up $15.6 million, or 35%, compared to June 30, 2025. During the third quarter of 2025, we purchased $15.1 million of variable-rate and $1.1 million of fixed-rate government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities. The weighted average yield of the securities purchased during the third quarter was 5.17% at September 30, 2025. Deposits Total deposits were $186.4 million at September 30, 2025, up $4.2 million, or 2%, from June 30, 2025. Total deposits averaged $179.8 million during the third quarter of 2025, compared to $179.4 million during the second quarter of 2025. The increase in deposits was primarily attributable to our high-yield account specials. The competitive offerings have been successful at attracting new deposits and deepening relationships with existing customers. The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's deposits as of the dates indicated. The ratio of the Company's total loans to total deposits was 88% and 92% at September 30 and June 30 2025, respectively. Total public fund deposits amounted to $30.5 million, or 16% of total deposits, at September 30, 2025, compared to $29.0 million at June 30, 2025. At September 30 and June 30, 2025, approximately 64% of our total public fund deposits consisted of non-interest-bearing and interest-bearing demand deposits. Capital and Share Repurchases At September 30 and June 30, 2025, consolidated shareholders' equity totaled $81.6 million, or 28.7% of total assets, and $80.8 million, or 29.5% of total assets, respectively. The Company repurchased 13,212 shares of its common stock at an average cost per share of $12.93 during the third quarter of 2025, compared to 62,385 shares at an average cost per share of $11.91 during the second quarter of 2025. Under the Company's November 2024 Repurchase Plan, 38,604 shares of the Company's common stock were available for repurchase at September 30, 2025. Since the announcement of our first share repurchase plan on January 26, 2023 and through September 30, 2025, the Company has repurchased a total of 1,160,396 shares of its common stock, or approximately 22% of the common shares originally issued, at an average cost per share of $11.94. At September 30, 2025, the Company had common shares outstanding of 4,129,604. Net Interest Income The net interest margin for the third quarter of 2025 was 3.88%, down ten basis points compared to the prior quarter. For the third quarter of 2025, the average yield on interest-earning assets was 5.56%, down two basis points from the prior quarter, and the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities was 2.62%, up 11 basis points from the second quarter of 2025. Net interest income for the third quarter of 2025 was $2.5 million, down $18,000, or 1%, compared to the second quarter of 2025. Total interest income was up $52,000, or 2%, in the third quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter largely due to an increase in income on investment securities and loans. Total interest expense increased $70,000, or 7%, in the third quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter. The increase in interest expense was mainly due to the full quarter impact of growth in our high-yield savings account balances during the second quarter of 2025. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the Company's total dollar amount of interest income from average interest-earning assets and the resulting yields, as well as the interest expense on average interest-bearing liabilities, expressed both in dollars and rates, and the net interest margin. Taxable equivalent ("TE") yields have been calculated using a marginal tax rate of 21%. All average balances are based on daily balances. Non-interest Income Non-interest income for the third quarter of 2025 totaled $315,000, down $29,000, or 8%, compared to the second quarter of 2025. During the third quarter of 2025, we corrected an immaterial technical error related to fees charged for the use of foreign ATMs and refunded customers all fees that were applied in error. The refunded fees were the primary reason for the decrease in income from service charges on deposit accounts when comparing the third quarter to the second quarter of 2025. Non-interest Expense Non-interest expense for the third quarter of 2025 totaled $2.2 million, up $24,000, or 1%, compared to the second quarter of 2025. Salaries and employee benefits expense for the third quarter of 2025 totaled $1.3 million, up $50,000, or 4%, from the prior quarter. New grants of share-based compensation in June 2025 and additional payroll tax expense for vesting of existing stock awards accounted for approximately half of the increase. Professional fees for the third quarter of 2025 totaled $91,000, down $23,000, or 20%, from the prior quarter. During the second quarter of 2025 the Company incurred additional professional fees for our annual shareholders meeting and related materials. Other non-interest expense totaled $211,000 for the third quarter of 2025, down $23,000, or 10%, from the prior quarter primarily due to a decline in loan collection related expenses. About Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: CLST) is a Louisiana corporation and registered bank holding company for Catalyst Bank, its wholly-owned subsidiary, with $283.8 million in assets at September 30, 2025. Catalyst Bank, formerly St. Landry Homestead Federal Savings Bank, has been in operation in the Acadiana region of south-central Louisiana since 1922. With a focus on fueling business and improving lives throughout the region, Catalyst Bank offers commercial and retail banking products through our six full-service branches located in Carencro, Eunice, Lafayette, Opelousas, and Port Barre. To learn more about Catalyst Bancorp and Catalyst Bank, visit www.catalystbank.com, or the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission, www.sec.gov. Forward-looking Statements This news release reflects industry conditions, Company performance and financial results and contains "forward-looking statements,' which may include forecasts of our financial results and condition, expectations for our operations and businesses, and our assumptions for those forecasts and expectations. Do not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risk factors and uncertainties which could cause the Company's actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results and expectation expressed in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements are described under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Supervision and Regulation" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, and in other documents subsequently filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, available at the SEC's website and the Company's website, each of which are referenced above. To the extent that statements in this news release relate to future plans, objectives, financial results or performance by the Company, these statements are deemed to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are generally identified by use of words such as "may," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "will," "should," "plan," "estimate," "predict," "continue" and "potential" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements represent management's beliefs, based upon information available at the time the statements are made, with regard to the matters addressed; they are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties that change over time and could cause actual results or financial condition to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such statements. All information is as of the date of this news release. Except to the extent required by applicable law or regulation, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statement for any reason. For more information: Joe Zanco, President and CEO (337) 948-3033 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/catalyst-bancorp-inc-announces-2025-third-quarter-results-302592133.html

OPELOUSAS, La., July 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: "CLST") (the "Company"), the parent company for Catalyst Bank (the "Bank") (www.catalystbank.com), reported net income of $521,000 for the second quarter of 2025, compared to net income of $586,000 for the first quarter of 2025. "We're pleased to see both loan and deposit growth during the quarter," said Joe Zanco, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Bank. "When given the opportunity to earn new business, our success rate remains strong. Our team continues to build momentum across our markets." Loans Loans totaled $167.6 million at June 30, 2025, up $1.5 million, or less than 1%, from March 31, 2025. The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's loan portfolio as of the dates indicated. In the second quarter of 2025, four construction loans totaling $14.5 million were converted to amortizing real estate loans following the completion of their respective construction projects. Of these, one loan totaling $2.9 million was classified as multi-family, while the remaining loans were designated as commercial real estate. The following table presents certain major segments of our commercial real estate, construction and land, and commercial and industrial loan balances as of the dates indicated. Credit Quality and Allowance for Credit Losses At June 30, 2025, non-performing assets ("NPAs") totaled $1.8 million, compared to $1.7 million at March 31, 2025. The ratio of NPAs to total assets was 0.64% and 0.63% at June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, respectively. Non-performing loans ("NPLs") comprised 1.00% and 0.99% of total loans at June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, respectively. At June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, 99% and 98% of total NPLs, respectively, were one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. At June 30, 2025, the allowance for credit losses on loans totaled $2.4 million, or 1.45% of total loans, compared to $2.5 million, or 1.51% of total loans, at March 31, 2025. The provision for credit losses was zero for the first and second quarters of 2025. Net loan charge-offs totaled $42,000 during the second quarter of 2025, compared to net charge-offs of $39,000 for the first quarter of 2025. Net loan charge-offs during the first and second quarters of 2025 were primarily related to residential mortgage loans and overdrawn deposit accounts. Deposits Total deposits were $182.2 million at June 30, 2025, up $1.6 million, or 1%, from March 31, 2025. Total deposits averaged $179.4 million during the second quarter of 2025, compared to $177.1 million during the first quarter of 2025. The change in deposits was mainly due to fluctuations in public funds and inflows from commercial customers. The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's deposits as of the dates indicated. The ratio of the Company's total loans to total deposits was 92% at both June 30 and March 31, 2025. Total public fund deposits amounted to $29.0 million, or 16% of total deposits, at June 30, 2025, compared to $29.8 million, or 17% of total deposits, at March 31, 2025. At June 30, 2025, approximately 64% of our total public fund deposits consisted of non-interest-bearing and interest-bearing demand deposits, compared to 80% at March 31, 2025. At June 30, 2025, a larger portion of public funds were held in savings accounts. Capital and Share Repurchases At June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, consolidated shareholders' equity totaled $80.8 million, or 29.5% of total assets, and $80.6 million, or 29.7% of total assets, respectively. The Company repurchased 62,385 shares of its common stock at an average cost per share of $11.91 during the second quarter of 2025, compared to 72,949 shares at an average cost per share of $11.86 during the first quarter of 2025. Under the Company's November 2024 Repurchase Plan, 51,816 shares of the Company's common stock were available for repurchase at June 30, 2025. Since the announcement of our first share repurchase plan on January 26, 2023 and through June 30, 2025, the Company has repurchased a total of 1,147,184 shares of its common stock, or approximately 22% of the common shares originally issued, at an average cost per share of $11.92. At June 30, 2025, the Company had common shares outstanding of 4,142,816. Net Interest Income The net interest margin for the second quarter of 2025 was 3.98%, up nine basis points compared to the prior quarter. For the second quarter of 2025, the average yield on interest-earning assets was 5.58%, up four basis points from the prior quarter, and the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities was 2.51%, down five basis points from the first quarter of 2025. Net interest income for the second quarter of 2025 was $2.5 million, up $103,000, or 4%, compared to the first quarter of 2025. Total interest income was up $87,000, or 3%, in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter largely due to an increase in income on loans. Total interest expense decreased $16,000, or 2%, in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter due to a decline in the cost of deposits. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the Company's total dollar amount of interest income from average interest-earning assets and the resulting yields, as well as the interest expense on average interest-bearing liabilities, expressed both in dollars and rates, and the net interest margin. Taxable equivalent ("TE") yields have been calculated using a marginal tax rate of 21%. All average balances are based on daily balances. Non-interest Income Non-interest income for the second quarter of 2025 totaled $344,000, down $209,000, or 38%, compared to the first quarter of 2025. Non-interest income for the first quarter of 2025 included insurance proceeds of $216,000 for fire and flood damages related to foreclosed properties. Non-interest Expense Non-interest expense for the second quarter of 2025 totaled $2.2 million, down $20,000, or 1%, compared to the first quarter of 2025. Foreclosed assets expense for the second quarter of 2025 included a write-down on foreclosed assets of $14,000. In the first quarter of 2025, the Company incurred net losses of $88,000 on the sale of foreclosed assets. Other non-interest expense totaled $234,000 for the second quarter of 2025, up $27,000, or 13%, from the prior quarter primarily due to an increase in loan collection related expenses. About Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: CLST) is a Louisiana corporation and registered bank holding company for Catalyst Bank, its wholly-owned subsidiary, with $273.8 million in assets at June 30, 2025. Catalyst Bank, formerly St. Landry Homestead Federal Savings Bank, has been in operation in the Acadiana region of south-central Louisiana for over 100 years. With a focus on fueling business and improving lives throughout the region, Catalyst Bank offers commercial and retail banking products through our six full-service branches located in Carencro, Eunice, Lafayette, Opelousas, and Port Barre. To learn more about Catalyst Bancorp and Catalyst Bank, visit www.catalystbank.com, or the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission, www.sec.gov. Forward-looking Statements This news release reflects industry conditions, Company performance and financial results and contains "forward-looking statements,' which may include forecasts of our financial results and condition, expectations for our operations and businesses, and our assumptions for those forecasts and expectations. Do not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risk factors and uncertainties which could cause the Company's actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results and expectation expressed in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements are described under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Supervision and Regulation" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, and in other documents subsequently filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, available at the SEC's website and the Company's website, each of which are referenced above. To the extent that statements in this news release relate to future plans, objectives, financial results or performance by the Company, these statements are deemed to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are generally identified by use of words such as "may," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "will," "should," "plan," "estimate," "predict," "continue" and "potential" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements represent management's beliefs, based upon information available at the time the statements are made, with regard to the matters addressed; they are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties that change over time and could cause actual results or financial condition to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such statements. All information is as of the date of this news release. Except to the extent required by applicable law or regulation, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statement for any reason. For more information: Joe Zanco, President and CEO (337) 948-3033 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/catalyst-bancorp-inc-announces-2025-second-quarter-results-302512483.html SOURCE Catalyst Bancorp, Inc.

OPELOUSAS, La., April 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: "CLST") (the "Company"), the parent company for Catalyst Bank (the "Bank") (www.catalystbank.com), reported net income of $586,000 for the first quarter of 2025, compared to net income of $626,000 for the fourth quarter of 2024. "Loan growth was muted to start the year as market turbulence caused some of our customers to delay projects," said Joe Zanco, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Bank. "On a brighter note, we were grateful to have received the 'Best Community Banks to Work For' Award at the ICBA's Live Conference in Nashville in March. Our employees continue to do a great job living our values of Truth, Humility, Impact, Now and Connection." Loans Loans totaled $166.1 million at March 31, 2025, down $1.0 million, or less than 1%, from December 31, 2024. The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's loan portfolio as of the dates indicated.   The following table presents certain major segments of our commercial real estate, construction and land, and commercial and industrial loan balances as of the dates indicated.   Credit Quality and Allowance for Credit Losses At March 31, 2025, non-performing assets ("NPAs") totaled $1.7 million, down $103,000, or 6%, from $1.8 million at December 31, 2024 primarily due to a decline in foreclosed assets. The ratio of NPAs to total assets was 0.63% and 0.66% at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. Non-performing loans ("NPLs") comprised 0.99% and 0.98% of total loans at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. At March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, 98% of total NPLs were one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. At both March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, the allowance for credit losses on loans totaled $2.5 million, or 1.51% of total loans. The provision for credit losses was zero for the first quarter of 2025 and the fourth quarter of 2024. Net loan charge-offs totaled $39,000 during the first quarter of 2025, compared to net charge-offs of $2,000 for the fourth quarter of 2024. Net loan charge-offs during the first quarter of 2025 were primarily related to residential mortgage loans and overdrawn deposit accounts. Deposits Total deposits were $180.6 million at March 31, 2025, down $5.1 million, or 3%, from December 31, 2024. Total deposits averaged $177.1 million during the first quarter of 2025, compared to $171.0 million during the fourth quarter of 2024. The fluctuations in total deposits were mainly due to public funds. The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's deposits as of the dates indicated.   The ratio of the Company's total loans to total deposits was 92% at March 31, 2025, compared to 90% at December 31, 2024. Total public fund deposits amounted to $29.8 million, or 17% of total deposits, at March 31, 2025, compared to $35.6 million, or 19% of total deposits, at December 31, 2024. At March 31, 2025, approximately 80% of our total public fund deposits consisted of non-interest-bearing and interest-bearing demand deposits from municipalities within our market. Capital and Share Repurchases At March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, consolidated shareholders' equity totaled $80.6 million, or 29.7% of total assets, and $80.2 million, or 29.0% of total assets, respectively. The Company repurchased 72,949 shares of its common stock at an average cost per share of $11.86 during the first quarter of 2025, compared to 120,977 shares at an average cost per share of $11.70 during the fourth quarter of 2024. Under the Company's November 2024 Repurchase Plan, 114,201 shares of the Company's common stock were available for repurchase at March 31, 2025. Since the announcement of our first share repurchase plan on January 26, 2023 and through March 31, 2025, the Company has repurchased a total of 1,084,799 shares of its common stock, or approximately 21% of the common shares originally issued, at an average cost per share of $11.93. At March 31, 2025, the Company had common shares outstanding of 4,205,201. Net Interest Income The net interest margin for the first quarter of 2025 was 3.89%, down three basis points compared to the prior quarter. For the first quarter of 2025, the average yield on interest-earning assets was 5.54%, down three basis points from the prior quarter, and the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities was 2.56%, down one basis point from the fourth quarter of 2024. Net interest income for the first quarter of 2025 was $2.4 million, down $107,000, or 4%, compared to the fourth quarter of 2024. Total interest income was down $137,000, or 4%, in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter primarily due to a decline in income on residential mortgage loans, commercial and industrial loans, and interest-earning cash. Total interest expense decreased $30,000, or 3%, in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter. During the fourth quarter of 2024, the Bank's $20.0 million BTFP advance was paid off, which led to a decline in interest expense on borrowings of $112,000 for the first quarter of 2025 compared to the fourth quarter of 2024. The decline in interest expense on borrowings was partially offset by an increase in interest expense on deposits that was largely driven by an increase in the cost of public fund deposits. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the Company's total dollar amount of interest income from average interest-earning assets and the resulting yields, as well as the interest expense on average interest-bearing liabilities, expressed both in dollars and rates, and the net interest margin. Taxable equivalent ("TE") yields have been calculated using a marginal tax rate of 21%. All average balances are based on daily balances.   Non-interest Income Non-interest income for the first quarter of 2025 totaled $553,000, up $216,000, or 64%, compared to the fourth quarter of 2024. Non-interest income for the first quarter of 2025 included insurance proceeds of $216,000 for fire and flood damages related to foreclosed properties. Non-interest Expense Non-interest expense for the first quarter of 2025 totaled $2.2 million, up $160,000, or 8%, compared to the fourth quarter of 2024. Foreclosed assets expense for the first quarter of 2025 included net losses of $88,000 on the sale of foreclosed properties. Salaries and employee benefits expense totaled $1.2 million for the first quarter of 2025, up $18,000, or 1%, from the prior quarter primarily due to an increase in the cost of employee benefits for 2025. Advertising and marketing expense totaled $39,000 for the first quarter of 2025, up $22,000, or 129%, from the prior quarter largely driven by an increase in business development activity during the first quarter of 2025. Other non-interest expense totaled $207,000 for the first quarter of 2025, up $19,000, or 10%, from the prior quarter primarily due to an increase in loan collection related expenses. About Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. Catalyst Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: CLST) is a Louisiana corporation and registered bank holding company for Catalyst Bank, its wholly-owned subsidiary, with $271.6 million in assets at March 31, 2025. Catalyst Bank, formerly St. Landry Homestead Federal Savings Bank, has been in operation in the Acadiana region of south-central Louisiana for over 100 years. With a focus on fueling business and improving lives throughout the region, Catalyst Bank offers commercial and retail banking products through our six full-service branches located in Carencro, Eunice, Lafayette, Opelousas, and Port Barre. To learn more about Catalyst Bancorp and Catalyst Bank, visit www.catalystbank.com, or the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission, www.sec.gov. Forward-looking Statements This news release reflects industry conditions, Company performance and financial results and contains "forward-looking statements,' which may include forecasts of our financial results and condition, expectations for our operations and businesses, and our assumptions for those forecasts and expectations. Do not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risk factors and uncertainties which could cause the Company's actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results and expectation expressed in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements are described under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Supervision and Regulation" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, and in other documents subsequently filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, available at the SEC's website and the Company's website, each of which are referenced above. To the extent that statements in this news release relate to future plans, objectives, financial results or performance by the Company, these statements are deemed to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are generally identified by use of words such as "may," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "will," "should," "plan," "estimate," "predict," "continue" and "potential" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology.  Forward-looking statements represent management's beliefs, based upon information available at the time the statements are made, with regard to the matters addressed; they are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties that change over time and could cause actual results or financial condition to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such statements. All information is as of the date of this news release. Except to the extent required by applicable law or regulation, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statement for any reason.         For more information:Joe Zanco, President and CEO(337) 948-3033 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/catalyst-bancorp-inc-announces-2025-first-quarter-results-302436674.html SOURCE Catalyst Bancorp, Inc.