Capital City Bank Group, Inc. reported Tuesday a net income of $7.3 million, or $0.44 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2019.

That number is compared to net income of $6.4 million, or $0.38 per diluted share, for the first quarter of 2019, and $6.0 million, or $0.35 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2018.  For the first six months of 2019, net income totaled $13.8 million, or $0.82 per diluted share, compared to net income of $11.8 million, or $0.69 per diluted share, for the same period of 2018.

Net income for the first six months of 2018 included tax benefits totaling $2.9 million, or $0.17 per diluted share (1Q – $1.5 million, or $0.09 per diluted share and 2Q – $1.4 million, or $0.08 per diluted share) related to 2017 plan year pension plan contributions made in 2018.

“I am very encouraged by our results in the first half and particularly pleased with the loan growth and margin expansion achieved in the second quarter,” said William G. Smith, Jr., Chairman, President and CEO. “Higher earning asset yields, loan growth and a phenomenal core deposit base are all contributing to higher net interest income. Credit quality continues to improve, and the strength of our Florida and Georgia economies is driving continued improvement in our market demographics. Lowering our efficiency ratio is a top priority, and we have multiple strategies in place to grow revenues and manage expenses. There is more to be done, but I am pleased with our progress as we remain focused on strategies that produce long-term value for our shareowners.”