On January 22, 2026, United Bankshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: UBSI) announced its financial results for the year ending December 31, 2025. The company reported record earnings of $464.6 million, or $3.27 per diluted share, showcasing a significant increase from the previous year's earnings of $373.0 million, or $2.75 per share. This impressive performance translates to returns on average assets, average equity, and average tangible equity of 1.41%, 8.63%, and 13.95%, respectively.

Richard M. Adams, Jr., the Chief Executive Officer of United Bankshares, expressed pride in the company's performance, stating, “Our financial performance in 2025 was among the very best in our Company’s long history. We delivered record earnings, strong profitability, resilient credit, and robust capital and liquidity.” He emphasized the company’s commitment to excellence in serving its shareholders, customers, communities, and employees.

2. Fourth Quarter Performance

In the fourth quarter of 2025, United Bankshares achieved earnings of $128.8 million, or $0.91 per diluted share, slightly down from $130.7 million, or $0.92 per diluted share, in the third quarter. The quarter yielded annualized returns of 1.52% on average assets, 9.31% on average equity, and 14.86% on average tangible equity.

Key Metrics for Q4 2025

Net Interest Income: Reached a record $287.5 million, up by $7.3 million, or 3%, from the third quarter. The tax-equivalent net interest income also saw a 3% increase.

Provision for Credit Losses: Decreased to $6.8 million from $12.1 million in the previous quarter, indicating improved credit quality.

Noninterest Income: Totaled $30.9 million, a drop of 28% from the third quarter, primarily due to net losses on investment securities.

Noninterest Expense: Increased by 3% to $151.7 million, influenced by an increase in the expense for the reserve for unfunded loan commitments.

3. Year-over-Year Comparison

When comparing the fourth quarter of 2025 to the same period in 2024, earnings surged from $94.4 million, or $0.69 per diluted share. The year-over-year increase in net interest income was remarkable, rising by 24% to $287.5 million, driven by a growing volume of average earning assets and a reduced average cost of deposits.

Annual Highlights for 2025

Net Interest Income: For the year, net interest income rose by $191.1 million, or 21%, compared to 2024, largely due to increased earning assets and acquired loan accretion income.

Noninterest Income: Increased by 9% to $135.2 million, supported by net gains on investment securities and higher fees from brokerage services.

Noninterest Expense: Totaled $600.1 million for the year, reflecting a rise from $545.0 million in 2024, with employee compensation being a significant factor due to the Piedmont acquisition.

4. Credit Quality and Capital Position

As of December 31, 2025, United Bankshares maintained a robust capital position with a risk-based capital ratio of 15.7%. The allowance for loan and lease losses stood at $297.5 million, or 1.20% of loans, ensuring the bank’s resilience against potential credit losses. The company also reported non-performing loans at $101.5 million, accounting for 0.41% of total loans, reflecting an improvement compared to the previous quarter.

5. Conclusion

United Bankshares, Inc.'s impressive earnings report for 2025 not only highlights its strong financial performance but also its commitment to organic growth and strategic acquisitions. With a solid capital foundation and a focus on enhancing shareholder value, the company is well-positioned for continued success in the future. As it moves into 2026, United Bankshares remains dedicated to delivering exceptional service and value to its stakeholders.

Original press release