The bank saw robust loan growth, with total loans increasing 13.3% from the prior year to $29.97 billion at quarter-end. "We are very pleased to have achieved record net income and earnings per share in each quarter of 2024 and for the full year," said George Gleason, Chairman and CEO of Bank OZK. "Our consistent achievement of record earnings, while maintaining sound asset quality, has allowed us to accumulate capital, increase dividends and significantly expand and grow our business." Net interest income grew 2.4% year-over-year to $379.4 million, benefiting from the expanded loan portfolio. However, the net interest margin compressed to 4.33% from 4.82% a year ago due to higher deposit costs. Total (EPA: TTEF ) deposits increased 13.3% from the prior year to $31.04 billion. The bank's efficiency ratio improved to 33.71% from 35.33% in the year-ago quarter. Bank OZK maintained strong asset quality, with non-performing loans to total loans at 0.44% compared to 0.25% a year earlier.