Oct. 25. Third-quarter net income at Aquesta Financial Holdings rose 25 percent to $635,000 compared to the third quarter last year. The parent company of Aquesta Bank says assets climbed 24 percent so far this year to $346.5 million.

“I’m very happy to announce continued excellent earnings combined with excellent loan growth. Our strategy of investing in our people and our commitment to providing the very best banking services are allowing Aquesta to capture both increased market share and profitability,” said Jim Engel, CEO and president.

The bank will have a grand opening of the newly combined insurance office and bank branch in Wilmington Nov. 5.

Total loans were $240.1 million at Sept. 30 this year compared to $195.6 million at year-end, representing a 30 percent annualized increase.

In a prepared statement, the financial services company said asset quality remains very strong. Nonperforming assets decreased to $1.8 million as of Sept. 30, as compared to $2.3 million at June 30, 2016. Foreclosed property was $1.7 million at Sept. 30.

Net interest income was $2.9 million for the third quarter of this year vs. $2.6 million in the third quarter of last year.

Non-interest expense was $3.2 million for the third quarter of 2016 compared to $2.8 million for the third quarter of 2015. The increase in expense was due to the additional personnel and occupancy cost associated with the addition of two new branches. Personnel expense was at $2.0 million for the third quarter of 2016 compared to $1.6 million for the third quarter of 2015.