The Cincinnati-based bank holding company achieved net income of $76.5 million for the three months ending June 30, 2026, marking a steady climb from the $74.4 million recorded in the first quarter of the year. The firm’s return on average tangible common equity hit 17.95%, supported by a net interest margin of 3.98% on a fully tax-equivalent basis. Loan growth remained a primary engine for the period, with end-of-period balances increasing by $240 million, driven by robust activity in commercial and industrial lending.

Alongside these financial results, leadership announced a dividend increase to $0.26 per common share, payable September 15, 2026. The acquisition of Finward Bancorp, parent company of Peoples Bank, adds approximately $2.0 billion in assets and 24 financial centers to First Financial’s portfolio. CEO Archie Brown noted that the transaction, which is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, will increase the company’s pro forma deposits in the Chicago metropolitan area to over $4 billion, further cementing its role as a regional banking force.