Core Viewpoint - OceanFirst Financial Corp. and Flushing Financial Corp. have entered into a definitive merger agreement to combine in an all-stock transaction valued at $579 million, creating a high-performing regional bank with a significant presence in New Jersey, Long Island, and New York markets [1][3]. Transaction Details - The merger will result in Flushing Bank merging into OceanFirst Bank, with OceanFirst Bank as the surviving entity [1][10]. - Flushing stockholders will receive 0.85 shares of OceanFirst common stock for each share of Flushing common stock [10]. - The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals and shareholder votes [12]. Financial Metrics - The combined company is projected to have approximately $23 billion in assets, $17 billion in total loans, and $18 billion in total deposits across 71 retail branches [3]. - The merger is expected to enhance profitability metrics, with estimated EPS accretion of 16%, ROATCE of 13%, and ROAA of 1.00% by 2027 [8][9]. - A $225 million equity raise is fully committed at a fixed price, with shares priced at $19.76 [4][11]. Leadership and Governance - Christopher Maher, CEO of OceanFirst, will continue as CEO of the combined company, while John Buran, CEO of Flushing, will become the non-executive Chairman of the Board [6]. - The board will consist of 17 directors, with ten from OceanFirst, six from Flushing, and one from Warburg Pincus [6]. Strategic Rationale - The acquisition is seen as a natural extension of OceanFirst's growth strategy, enhancing its presence in deposit-rich markets of New York [3][6]. - The combination aims to leverage Flushing's distribution network and OceanFirst's relationship-driven business model to better serve customers and create shareholder value [6][7].

Core Viewpoint - M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB) is recognized as a well-managed and undervalued bank, with a current valuation at 12 times earnings, making it an attractive investment opportunity [1] Group 1: Company Overview - M&T Bank Corporation provides a range of banking and credit products, including loans, deposit accounts, and cash management services [1] - The bank focuses on regional operations in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, prioritizing density over national expansion [1] Group 2: Investment Insights - Ariel Investments has purchased shares in M&T Bank, highlighting its strong local scale and successful acquisitions, such as the merger with People's Bank, which has enhanced its deposit base [1] - The bank has actively reduced risk in its commercial real estate portfolio and utilizes unique agency licenses to generate fee income [1] - M&T Bank is positioned to benefit from partnerships in private credit, supporting a favorable long-term outlook despite near-term credit risks [1]

Core Viewpoint - Citizens Business Bank and Heritage Commerce Corp have announced a definitive merger agreement valued at approximately $811 million, aimed at expanding Citizens' presence in the Bay Area and enhancing financial performance [1][2]. Summary by Sections Merger Details - The merger will be an all-stock transaction, with Heritage shareholders receiving 0.6500 shares of CVBF common stock for each HTBK share [2]. - Upon completion, CVBF shareholders will own approximately 77% and HTBK shareholders will own approximately 23% of the combined entity [2]. Strategic Importance - This acquisition is described as the largest in terms of assets in Citizens' history, allowing for comprehensive geographic coverage across major business banking markets in California [2]. - The merger is expected to preserve the local focus and trust inherent in the relationship banking model of both institutions [2]. Financial Projections - The transaction is anticipated to be immediately accretive to Citizens' earnings per share, with projected EPS accretion of 13.2% by 2027 and a strong internal rate of return of approximately 20% [3]. - The tangible book value per share is expected to be 7.7% dilutive, with an earn-back period of approximately 2.5 years [3]. Leadership and Governance - David Brager will continue as CEO of Citizens, while Clay Jones will join as President of the combined organization [4]. - Two current directors from Heritage will join the Citizens' Board of Directors to ensure continuity and representation [4]. Approval and Timeline - The merger has been unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals [5]. Advisory Roles - J.P. Morgan served as financial advisor and Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP as legal counsel for Citizens, while Piper Sandler & Co. and Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz served similar roles for Heritage [6].