FFBC · First Financial Bancorp.

First Financial Bancorp reported strong first quarter 2026 results, with net income rising to $74.4 million from $62.4 million in the prior quarter. Diluted earnings per share were $0.71 on a GAAP basis and $0.77 on an adjusted basis. The adjusted return on average assets was 1.45%, and the adjusted return on average tangible common equity was 19.22%. Performance was driven by a robust net interest margin (NIM) of 3.99% on a fully tax-equivalent basis, which increased 1 basis point from the linked quarter. Management noted that a 13 basis point decline in funding costs offset a 12 basis point decrease in asset yields, contributing to margin resilience. Adjusted noninterest income was strong at $75.6 million, supported by record wealth management income and robust leasing business income. The efficiency ratio improved to 58.4% on an adjusted basis. Asset quality remained stable, with nonperforming assets decreasing slightly to 0.44% of total assets and net charge-offs at 0.35% of total loans annualized. The Company successfully completed the BankFinancial acquisition on January 1, 2026, which contributed to loan and deposit growth. Separately, the Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase plan for up to 5 million shares, representing approximately 4.8% of outstanding shares, effective April 21, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2027.