Ameris Bancorp Q4 Net Income Rises, Driven by Loan Growth and Margin Expansion

Ameris Bancorp (ABCB) reported higher fourth-quarter net income on January 29, 2026, citing strong loan growth and improved net interest margin as key drivers. Net income rose to $89.4 million, or $1.32 per diluted share, up from $76.1 million, or $1.13 per share, in the same quarter a year earlier. Total loans increased 6.2% year-over-year to $18.7 billion, while net interest margin expanded 12 basis points to 3.58%. Non-interest expenses rose 4.3% due to branch expansion and technology investments. CEO Palmer Proctor noted disciplined expense management offset rising operational costs. The company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share, payable March 1, 2026.