First Financial Bancorp.(US:FFBC) The Motley Fool·2025-12-28 16:53Core Viewpoint - Gator Capital Management has initiated a new position in First Financial Bancorp, indicating a strategic investment approach focused on patience and balance-sheet considerations rather than immediate market momentum [1][2]. Company Overview - First Financial Bancorp is a regional banking institution with a strong presence in the Midwest, offering a diversified portfolio of lending and deposit services [4][6]. - The company reported a revenue of $884.98 million and a net income of $258.10 million for the trailing twelve months (TTM) [4]. - The current dividend yield stands at 4%, with shares priced at $25.72 as of the latest report [4]. Investment Position - Gator Capital Management disclosed ownership of 221,920 shares of First Financial Bancorp, valued at approximately $5.60 million, representing about 1.42% of its total U.S. equity assets of $394.37 million [2][3]. - The investment reflects a broader strategy that favors financials and cyclicals, suggesting a long-term view on normalized earnings power despite short-term market distractions [8]. Market Performance - First Financial Bancorp's shares have decreased by approximately 6.5% over the past year, underperforming the S&P 500, which has increased by about 15% during the same period [3][7]. - The company has been navigating margin pressures and deposit competition, yet it remains profitable and well-capitalized, with net interest income performing better than expected [7].