First Farmers and Merchants Corporation reported un-audited consolidated earnings results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2018. For the quarter, the company reported total interest income of $12.2 million compared to $10.9 million a year ago. Net interest income was $10.9 million compared to $10.0 million a year ago. Net income for common shareholders was $3.6 million or $0.80 per share compared to $2.2 million or $0.48 per share a year ago.

For the nine months, the company reported total interest income of $45.9 million compared to $42.1 million a year ago. Net interest income was $41.7 million compared to $39.0 million a year ago. Net income for common shareholders was $14.2 million or $3.17 per share compared to $10.4 million or $2.29 per share a year ago.

Interest income is expected to improve in 2019 as a result of the growth in loan balances.