LAKELAND FINANCIAL CORP

Lakeland Financial Corp reported strong first-quarter results for 2026, with net income increasing significantly to $26.478 million, up 31.8% year-over-year. Diluted earnings per share rose to $1.04, a 33.3% increase from the prior year. The company also saw a 7.4% rise in net interest income and a substantial decrease in the provision for credit losses. Total deposits and loans experienced growth, while the company continued its share repurchase program.

Lakeland Financial Corporation reported strong first-quarter 2026 results, with net income increasing 32% to $26.5 million and diluted EPS rising 33% to $1.04. The company achieved significant organic growth in loans and deposits, alongside an expanded net interest margin. These results reflect a disciplined strategy, strong capital foundation, and continued investment in technology and market presence.

Lakeland Financial Corporation reported record first-quarter net income of $26.5 million, a 32% increase year-over-year, with diluted earnings per share rising 33% to $1.04. The company achieved 9% revenue growth and 5% loan growth, driven by strong net interest margin expansion and increased fee-based revenue. LKFN also increased its common dividend by 4% to $0.52 per share and repurchased 336,853 shares for $19.2 million.

Lakeland Financial Corporation held its annual meeting of shareholders on April 14, 2026. Shareholders elected 13 directors, including A. Faraz Abbasi, Blake W. Augsburger, and David M. Findlay, all of whom will serve terms expiring in 2027. Additionally, the advisory vote on executive compensation was approved, and Crowe LLP was ratified as the company's independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2026.

Lakeland Financial Corporation's Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.52 per share on its common stock. This dividend will be paid on May 5, 2026, to shareholders who are on record as of April 25, 2026. This action demonstrates the company's consistent approach to returning value to its investors.