Bank of South Carolina Corporation reported robust growth in its fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 earnings, with annual net income rising 17.15% to $7.91 million and Q4 net income increasing 10.72% to $2.01 million. Key metrics showed improved returns on assets and equity, alongside steady expansion in net interest income amid a stable balance sheet.
Bank of South Carolina Corporation, a community-focused financial institution serving the Lowcountry region, delivered solid performance in its fourth quarter and full year of 2025, reflecting resilience in a competitive banking environment.
Quarterly and Annual Earnings Highlights
The company achieved unaudited net income of $2.01 million for the fourth quarter, marking a 10.72% increase from $1.82 million in the same period last year. This translated to basic earnings per share of $0.37 and diluted EPS of $0.36, up from $0.33 for both in Q4 2024.
For the full year, net income climbed 17.15% to $7.91 million from $6.75 million in 2024, with basic EPS at $1.45 and diluted EPS at $1.41, compared to $1.24 basic and $1.23 diluted previously.
Returns on average assets improved to 1.39% in Q4 and 1.38% annually, while returns on average equity reached 13.28% for the quarter and 13.83% for the year.
Income Statement Breakdown
Net interest income for Q4 rose modestly to $5.93 million from $5.41 million a year ago, driven by higher interest and fee income of $7.14 million offsetting a decline in interest expense to $1.21 million. The provision for credit losses increased to $200,000 from $25,000, reflecting prudent risk management.
Other income totaled $448,178, while other expenses came in at $3.77 million. Pre-tax income stood at $2.42 million, with income tax expense of $402,000.
Over the full year, cumulative figures showed consistent quarterly progress, with net interest income after provisions totaling approximately $22.66 million across the four quarters.
Balance Sheet and Key Ratios
| Metric | Q4 2025 | Q4 2024 | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Interest and Fee Income | $7.14M | $6.82M | +4.71% |
| Total Interest Expense | $1.21M | $1.41M | -14.33% |
| Net Interest Income | $5.93M | $5.41M | +9.61% |
| Provision for Credit Losses | $200K | $25K | +700% |
| Other Income | $448K | $483K | -7.23% |
| Other Expense | $3.77M | $3.50M | +7.58% |
| Net Income | $2.01M | $1.82M | +10.72% |
| Basic EPS | $0.37 | $0.33 | +12.12% |
| Diluted EPS | $0.36 | $0.33 | +9.09% |
Average total assets in Q4 were $575 million, slightly down from $570 million in Q4 2024, with average loans at $361 million and deposits at $499 million. Shareholders’ equity averaged $60 million, supporting a book value per share of $11.14.
The net interest margin improved to 4.28% in Q4 from 3.97% a year earlier, while the efficiency ratio edged down to 59.01%. The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans rose to 1.18%, and loans past due over 30 days increased to 0.76% but remained low overall. The community bank leverage ratio stood strong at 11.33%.
Year-Over-Year Trends
Comparing full-year performance, the bank benefited from gradual interest income growth across quarters, with Q4 capping a year of disciplined expense control and credit quality maintenance. Provisions for credit losses totaled $600,000 for 2025, up from prior levels to address potential economic uncertainties.
The company’s focus on core deposit growth and loan portfolio stability helped bolster margins, even as broader market rates fluctuated.
Disclaimer: This news report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice or investment recommendations. All data is based on publicly available information from reliable sources.