Prnewswire·2025-07-24 20:15Core Viewpoint - First Financial Bancorp reported strong financial results for the second quarter of 2025, with significant increases in net income, revenue, and profitability metrics compared to previous periods [2][5][7]. Financial Performance - For the three months ended June 30, 2025, the company reported net income of $70.0 million, or $0.73 per diluted common share, compared to $51.3 million, or $0.54 per diluted common share in the first quarter of 2025 [2][17]. - The company achieved record revenue of $226.3 million, representing a 5% increase over the same quarter one year ago [5]. - Adjusted earnings per share for the second quarter were $0.74, with a return on average assets of 1.52% and a return on average tangible common equity of 19.61% [7][19]. Asset Quality and Loan Growth - Asset quality remained stable, with net charge-offs declining to 0.21% of total loans, a 15 basis point decrease from the first quarter [5][8]. - Loan growth was reported at 2% on an annualized basis, with broad-based growth in most portfolios, except for commercial real estate [5][8]. Noninterest Income and Expenses - Adjusted noninterest income for the second quarter was $67.8 million, an 11% increase over the linked quarter and a 10% increase over the second quarter of 2024 [5][8]. - Noninterest expenses increased by 1% compared to the first quarter, with adjusted noninterest expenses rising by less than 2% year over year [5][8]. Capital and Dividends - The company’s tangible common equity ratio increased to 8.40%, with tangible book value per share rising to $15.40, a 4% increase from the linked quarter [5][8]. - The Board of Directors approved a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per common share, reflecting a 4.2% increase [4][5]. Future Outlook - The company is optimistic about future loan growth in the second half of 2025 and is actively engaged in the integration process following the announcement of the acquisition of Westfield Bank [5][8].