STOCK TITAN

Business First Bancshares, Inc. - BFST STOCK NEWS

Welcome to our dedicated page for Business First Bancshares news (Ticker: BFST), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Business First Bancshares stock.

Business First Bancshares, Inc. (BFST) is a United States-based bank holding company headquartered in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Through its banking subsidiary, b1BANK, the company offers a comprehensive suite of financial services tailored to both individuals and businesses. Core offerings include personal and commercial banking, treasury management, and wealth solutions designed to help clients achieve their financial goals.

Personal and Commercial Banking: Business First provides a wide array of banking services including commercial loans, letters of credit, working capital lines, equipment financing, and deposit products. The company is focused on providing customized solutions for small-to-midsized businesses and professionals.

Treasury Management and Wealth Solutions: The company's treasury management services aim to help businesses manage their financial activities efficiently. Wealth solutions cater to both individuals and enterprises, ensuring comprehensive financial planning and asset management.

Financial Overview: As of July 27, 2023, Business First boasts $6.5 billion in assets and $6.4 billion under management through its affiliate Smith Shellnut Wilson, LLC. This financial strength underscores its ability to offer high-quality service and maintain stability even in challenging economic times.

Recent Achievements: Business First has been recognized repeatedly for its excellent work culture. It was honored as one of American Banker Magazine's top 40 banks to work for in 2014 and has consistently been named among the best banks to work for by the same publication. Additionally, Forbes and Statista awarded b1BANK the #1 Best-In-State Bank in Louisiana.

Recent Developments: The company recently announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2024, reporting net income available to common shareholders of $12.2 million. Despite a decrease in earnings compared to the previous quarter, the company focused on foundational work that promises greater earnings potential in the long term. Notable activities include the acquisition and integration of Waterstone, a Loan Service Provider that facilitates SBA production for banks nationwide.

Partnerships and Community Engagement: Business First is committed to being a financial partner of choice, supporting enterprises, their owners, and employees. The company operates Banking Centers and Loan Production Offices across Louisiana and the Dallas and Houston, Texas areas, indicating robust regional engagement and community involvement.

Visit b1BANK.com for more information.

Rhea-AI Summary

Business First Bancshares, Inc. (Nasdaq: BFST) announced the appointment of Drew Brees to its board of directors. Brees, a former NFL quarterback and philanthropist, aims to leverage his influence to support small businesses and community initiatives. With a notable track record, including his MVP award from Super Bowl XLIV and significant charitable contributions, he is expected to enhance the bank's outreach and impact in Louisiana and Texas. CEO Jude Melville expressed excitement over Brees' involvement, anticipating positive community benefits.

Rhea-AI Impact
Rhea-AI Sentiment
End-of-Day
2.84%
Tags
management
-
Rhea-AI Summary

Business First Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: BFST) has completed a private placement of $52.5 million in 4.250% fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes due 2031. The proceeds will bolster b1BANK's capital base for growth and strategic opportunities, addressing existing borrowings and general corporate needs. The initial interest rate is 4.250% until March 2026, after which it will adjust quarterly based on the SOFR. This issuance strengthens Business First's capital levels, supporting future initiatives.

Rhea-AI Impact
Rhea-AI Sentiment
End-of-Day
0.29%
Tags
none
-
Rhea-AI Summary

Business First Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: BFST) announced a definitive agreement to acquire investment advisor Smith Shellnut Wilson, LLC (SSW). This strategic move, expected to close in the coming weeks, aims to enhance b1BANK's product offerings and strengthen its investment services. SSW, with $3.5 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2020, will be consolidated into b1BANK’s Wealth Solutions Division. The merger is anticipated to provide more customized client services, leveraging shared values and a commitment to relationship-focused portfolio management.

Rhea-AI Impact
Rhea-AI Sentiment
End-of-Day
-4.53%
Tags
Rhea-AI Summary

Business First Bancshares (Nasdaq: BFST) and b1BANK have appointed John Ducrest to their boards of directors. Ducrest, the former Commissioner of Louisiana's Office of Financial Institutions, brings over 35 years of experience, including significant roles in national financial organizations. His expertise in policy development and relationships with policymakers is expected to enhance the board's effectiveness. CEO Jude Melville highlighted Ducrest's leadership impact during critical periods, such as post-Hurricane Katrina recovery. Ducrest expressed eagerness to contribute to the company's growth.

Rhea-AI Impact
Rhea-AI Sentiment
End-of-Day
3.88%
Tags
management
-
Rhea-AI Summary

Business First Bancshares, Inc. (BFST) reported its unaudited financial results for the year ended December 31, 2020, revealing a net income of $30.0 million, or $1.64 per diluted share, compared to $23.8 million, or $1.74 per diluted share in 2019. Core net income rose to $37.5 million, or $2.05 per diluted share. Q4 2020 net income surged to $13.8 million, with core net income of $14.1 million. Total loans decreased by $91.1 million, mainly due to PPP loan forgiveness. A quarterly dividend of $0.10 per share was declared, with a book value of $19.88 per share as of December 31, 2020.

Rhea-AI Impact
Rhea-AI Sentiment
End-of-Day
-0.95%
Tags
-
Rhea-AI Summary

Business First Bancshares, Inc. (BFST) reported a strong third quarter 2020 with a net income of $9.6 million ($0.46 per diluted share), up from $5.5 million ($0.40) year-over-year. Core net income reached $11.0 million ($0.53 per diluted share), driven by higher net interest income and reduced acquisition expenses following the Pedestal acquisition. Total loans grew by 81.89% year-over-year, bolstered by the SBA Paycheck Protection Program. However, the company recorded an increase in nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets to 0.54%. A quarterly dividend of $0.10 was declared.

Rhea-AI Impact
Rhea-AI Sentiment
End-of-Day
1.24%
Tags
Rhea-AI Summary

Baton Rouge, La., Sept. 25, 2020 – b1BANK President and CEO Jude Melville announced the appointment of Carol Calkins to the board of directors of b1BANK and its parent company Business First Bancshares, under the ticker BFST. With over 30 years of experience in finance and ESG, Calkins previously held top roles at PricewaterhouseCoopers. Melville praised her background and connections in Louisiana and Texas as beneficial for the bank’s future. Calkins expressed enthusiasm for contributing to the community banking sector.

Rhea-AI Impact
Rhea-AI Sentiment
End-of-Day
1.12%
Tags
management
-
Rhea-AI Summary

Jude Melville, CEO of b1BANK, announced Jesse Jackson as the new leader of the bank's Financial Institutions Group, bringing over 30 years of banking experience. Previously an executive at Texas Capital Bank, Jackson is recognized for building a broad correspondent banking network. Melville emphasized the need for community bankers to collaborate for economic recovery. Jackson aims to foster high-value partnerships to drive success at b1BANK. The bank operates 42 locations across Louisiana and Dallas, offering various banking services. Business First Bancshares trades under the ticker BFST.

Rhea-AI Impact
Rhea-AI Sentiment
End-of-Day
-0.72%
Tags
none
-
Rhea-AI Summary

On July 21, 2020, b1BANK's President and CEO Jude Melville announced Keith Tillage's appointment to the board of directors of b1BANK and its parent company, Business First Bancshares (NASDAQ: BFST). Tillage brings over 20 years of experience in commercial construction, having led Tillage Construction to national recognition as a minority-owned business. Melville highlighted Tillage's expertise in business development as an asset during economic uncertainty, emphasizing the company's commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs.

Rhea-AI Impact
Rhea-AI Sentiment
End-of-Day
4.59%
Tags
management
Rhea-AI Impact
Rhea-AI Sentiment
End-of-Day
-7.3%
Tags

FAQ

What is the current stock price of Business First Bancshares (BFST)?

The current stock price of Business First Bancshares (BFST) is $25.04 as of January 3, 2025.

What is the market cap of Business First Bancshares (BFST)?

The market cap of Business First Bancshares (BFST) is approximately 729.7M.

What services does Business First Bancshares, Inc. offer?

Business First Bancshares, Inc. offers personal and commercial banking, treasury management, and wealth solutions services.

Where is Business First Bancshares, Inc. headquartered?

Business First Bancshares, Inc. is headquartered in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

What recent achievements has Business First Bancshares, Inc. received?

The company was ranked #1 Best-In-State Bank in Louisiana by Forbes and Statista and is a multiyear awardee of American Banker's 'Best Banks to Work For.'

How did Business First Bancshares perform in Q1 2024?

For Q1 2024, Business First reported net income of $12.2 million available to common shareholders.

Who is the primary target market for Business First Bancshares, Inc.?

The primary target market includes small-to-midsized businesses, professionals, and individual clients.

What is the mission of Business First Bancshares, Inc.?

The mission is to be the financial institution of choice for enterprises, their owners, and employees.

What are the recent financial highlights of Business First Bancshares, Inc.?

The company has $6.5 billion in assets and $6.4 billion under management as of July 27, 2023.

What strategic steps has Business First taken recently?

Recent steps include the acquisition and integration of Waterstone, a Loan Service Provider, to enhance SBA production capabilities.

How can I access the latest financial reports of Business First Bancshares, Inc.?

You can access the latest financial reports on their website, b1BANK.com, under the 'Shareholder Info' section.

What regions does Business First Bancshares, Inc. operate in?

The company operates in Louisiana and the Dallas and Houston areas in Texas.
Business First Bancshares, Inc.

Nasdaq:BFST

BFST Rankings

BFST Stock Data

729.67M
27.92M
5.26%
44.2%
0.45%
Banks - Regional
State Commercial Banks
Link
United States of America
BATON ROUGE