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In a recent regulatory filing, Columbia Banking System, Inc. (market cap: $5.3 billion) disclosed a proposed settlement of $55 million in connection to a class action lawsuit against its subsidiary, Umpqua Bank. According to InvestingPro analysis, the company maintains a GOOD financial health score, suggesting strong resilience to handle such settlements. The lawsuit stemmed from allegations of aiding and abetting fraudulent activities related to the failure of two commercial real estate investment companies. The class action, which was initially filed in August 2020, claimed damages ranging from approximately $297.4 million to $368.1 million, including prejudgment interest.
The case faced a deadlock on Monday when the jury could not reach a unanimous verdict, leading to a mistrial. Following this, a court-ordered settlement conference took place, culminating in the filing of a Notice of Settlement today.
The settlement amount of $55 million, which includes potential attorneys’ fees and costs, is pending the execution of a formal agreement and requires both preliminary and final approval by the court. If the settlement receives the necessary court approvals, it is anticipated to be paid by early 2026. With a P/E ratio of 9.95 and trading below its Fair Value according to InvestingPro metrics, the company appears well-positioned to manage this obligation. However, it is important to note that there is no guarantee that the formal settlement agreement will be finalized or receive court approval.
This information is based on a statement from the Securities and Exchange Commission filing by Columbia Banking System, Inc. The company, headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, is a state commercial bank operating under the standard industrial classification code 6022. The settlement, if finalized, will resolve the claims against Umpqua Bank related to the two investment companies that had maintained their primary deposit accounts at the bank’s branch in Novato, Marin County, California. The branch was acquired from Circle Bank in 2012.
Investors in Columbia Banking System, Inc., which trades on the NASDAQ under the ticker (NASDAQ:COLB), should monitor the progress of this settlement as it moves towards court approval and potential payment. The bank’s strong dividend track record of 29 consecutive years of payments and current yield of 5.62% demonstrates its commitment to shareholder returns. For deeper insights into COLB’s financial strength and growth potential, InvestingPro subscribers can access comprehensive analysis and 6 additional ProTips in the detailed Research Report.
In other recent news, Columbia Banking System reported its fourth-quarter 2024 earnings, with an operating earnings per share (EPS) of $0.71, surpassing analysts’ expectations of $0.65. However, the company’s revenue slightly missed projections, coming in at $487.12 million against an anticipated $489.01 million. The company also announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per common share, payable on March 17, 2025. Analyst firm Stephens adjusted its price target for Columbia Banking System shares to $31.00 from $33.00, maintaining an Equal Weight rating. Meanwhile, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods also lowered their price target to $33.00 from $34.00, keeping a Market Perform rating. Both firms noted the bank’s solid net interest margin and effective expense management, despite adjustments in earnings estimates. Columbia Banking System’s strategic focus on commercial loan growth, particularly in Southern California, and investments in digital solutions are expected to continue influencing its financial trajectory.
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