Core Viewpoint - First Financial has received regulatory approval for its acquisition of BankFinancial, which is valued at approximately $142 million in an all-stock deal [1][2]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - The acquisition agreement allows BankFinancial shareholders to receive 0.48 shares of First Financial for each share they hold [1]. - The merger has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies and is expected to close by January 1, 2026, pending customary closing conditions and shareholder approval [2]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - This acquisition is aimed at expanding First Financial's presence in the Chicagoland area, where BankFinancial operates 18 financial centers [2]. - Upon completion, First Financial will take over BankFinancial's consumer and wealth management services, along with all its employees, and will add selected commercial credit lines to its existing operations [3]. Group 3: Recent Acquisitions - Last month, First Financial completed the acquisition of Westfield Bancorp and its subsidiary, Westfield Bank, in a cash-and-stock transaction valued at $325 million [4]. - The retail locations and services of Westfield Bank will operate under First Financial's network until the conversion process is completed, which is anticipated by March 2026 [4].

Group 1 - First Financial Bancorp (FFBC) has agreed to acquire BankFinancial Corporation (BFIN) in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $142 million, aiming to strengthen its presence in the Chicagoland market [1][7] - BankFinancial shareholders will receive 0.48 shares of First Financial for each share they hold, with the transaction expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals and shareholder consent [2] - The acquisition will integrate BankFinancial's consumer and wealth management services into First Financial's operations, ensuring continuity in client relationships and community engagement [3] Group 2 - The acquisition will add 18 BankFinancial financial centers to First Financial's network, enhancing its market reach across Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois [4][7] - This move aligns with FFBC's broader Midwest growth strategy, which includes a prior agreement to acquire Westfield Bank in Northeast Ohio and ongoing expansion into Chicago, Cleveland, and Grand Rapids [5] - Archie Brown, president and CEO of First Financial, emphasized that the addition of BankFinancial's centers will provide Chicago clients with a broader range of banking and specialty solutions [6] Group 3 - Over the past year, shares of First Financial have decreased by 1.9%, contrasting with the industry's growth of 15.1% [6] - FFBC currently holds a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy), indicating positive market sentiment [9]