FIRST FINANCIAL BANCORP /OH/

First Financial Bancorp reported a significant increase in net income for the first half of 2026, rising 24.4% to $150.9 million, with diluted EPS growing 13.4% to $1.44. For the second quarter of 2026, net income increased 9.2% to $76.5 million, while diluted EPS remained flat at $0.73. The company's total assets expanded by 6.2% to $22.44 billion, driven by growth in loans and deposits. The period also included a $12.08 million gain on bargain purchase related to the BankFinancial acquisition.

First Financial Bancorp announced an agreement to acquire Finward Bancorp in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $208 million. The acquisition is expected to be 5% accretive to First Financial's earnings per share and strategically expands its presence in northwest Indiana and Chicago. Concurrently, the company reported strong second-quarter 2026 financial results, with diluted EPS of $0.73 and a record adjusted diluted EPS of $0.80, alongside a quarterly dividend increase to $0.26 per share.

First Financial Bancorp shareholders approved the 2026 Stock Plan, reserving 3.85 million shares for equity incentive awards to directors, executive officers, and other eligible participants. At the Annual Meeting, shareholders also elected ten directors for terms expiring in 2027, ratified Crowe LLP as the independent auditor for 2026, and approved, on an advisory basis, the compensation of executive officers.

First Financial Bancorp reported strong adjusted earnings for Q1 2026, with adjusted diluted EPS of $0.77 and adjusted net income of $80.5 million. The company saw an increase in assets and deposits, driven partly by the BankFinancial acquisition, and maintained a robust net interest margin of 3.99% (FTE). The Board also authorized a 5 million share repurchase plan, reflecting confidence in future performance.

First Financial Bancorp reported a significant increase in net income and earnings per share for the first quarter of 2026, largely driven by a gain on bargain purchase of $8.892 million from the BankFinancial acquisition. The company also saw substantial growth in total assets and deposits. Net interest income and noninterest income both experienced strong year-over-year increases.

First Financial Bancorp filed an exhibit containing a forward-looking statements disclosure related to its First Quarter 2026 earnings presentation. The disclosure highlights various economic, market, credit, and regulatory risks that could impact future financial performance, emphasizing that actual results may differ materially from projections.