First Financial Bankshares Inc - FFIN STOCK NEWS

On August 4, 2021, First Financial Bankshares (NASDAQ: FFIN) was recognized as the No. 2 top-performing publicly traded bank in the U.S. within the $5-$50 billion asset category by Bank Director Magazine. This achievement marks the 13th consecutive year the bank has been listed among the top performers. The bank's strong performance is attributed to teamwork and strategic planning, reflecting the commitment of its employees and the trust of its customers. Additionally, Forbes named First Financial one of America's Best Banks, and it ranked No. 1 in Texas by Newsweek.

First Financial Bankshares, based in Abilene, Texas, has appointed Chris Cook as Executive Vice President of Marketing. With nearly 30 years of experience in public and media relations, Cook previously worked at Texas Tech University, where he enhanced media strategies and marketing campaigns. His role will focus on strengthening the First Financial brand across Texas by improving communications, campaign strategies, and digital marketing efforts. This strategic hire aims to contribute to the company's success as it navigates the competitive banking landscape.

First Financial Bank, N.A. announced the promotion of Nora P. Thompson to Chief Executive Officer for the Bryan/College Station region, succeeding Ivan M. Olson, who recently retired. Thompson, previously the region's President, boasts over 30 years of financial services experience, including leadership roles at The Bank and Trust of Bryan/College Station. She is committed to enhancing customer service with an established team, emphasizing her deep connection to the local community. The company, listed as FFIN on NASDAQ, operates 78 locations across Texas.

First Financial Bankshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: FFIN) has renewed its stock repurchase plan, allowing for the buyback of up to 5,000,000 shares, or approximately 3.5% of its outstanding shares as of July 27, 2021, through July 31, 2023. The buyback aims to enhance shareholder value and demonstrates the company's strong capital position. This follows a previous authorization for 4,000,000 shares through September 30, 2021. The management retains discretion over the timing and price of share repurchases, aligning with market conditions.

Stephen Lee, Chairman, President, and CEO of First Financial Bank, N.A., Southeast Region, was appointed to the Texas State University System Board of Regents by Governor Greg Abbott. His term is set to expire on Feb. 1, 2027. Lee's leadership has been recognized within the community, and he actively supports organizations benefiting college students. He has previously received the Walter F. Johnson Award for his efforts in recovery after Hurricane Harvey. First Financial Bank operates 78 locations across Texas and is listed on NASDAQ under the symbol FFIN.

First Financial Bankshares reported a solid second quarter for 2021, showcasing earnings of $56.38 million, up from $53.47 million a year ago. Basic EPS rose to $0.40 compared to $0.38 last year. The bank achieved net organic loan growth of $193.46 million for the quarter and a remarkable $1.11 billion in customer deposits year-to-date. While net interest income increased to $90.95 million, the net interest margin declined to 3.36%. Noninterest income dropped to $34.67 million, with expenses rising to $59.37 million.

First Financial Bankshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: FFIN) has been recognized by Forbes as one of America's Best-In-State Banks for Texas in 2021. F. Scott Dueser, the CEO, attributed this honor to the dedication of the bank's team in serving customers and communities. This accolade adds to First Financial's previous recognition as the No. 1 Bank in Texas by Newsweek and consistent rankings among the top financial institutions by Bank Director. The recognition is based on customer satisfaction, evaluated through a survey of nearly 25,000 U.S. banking customers.

First Financial Bank, N.A. has achieved certification for its FirstAccess checking account from the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund, meeting their Bank-On National Account Standards. This certification highlights a commitment to low-cost, high-functionality banking, enhancing consumer safety. The account provides no minimum deposit or direct deposit requirements and includes complimentary online and mobile banking. With 78 locations across Texas, First Financial aims to support community accessibility and financial inclusion.

First Financial Bank, a subsidiary of First Financial Bankshares (NASDAQ: FFIN), announced plans to construct a new 15,000 square-foot, energy-efficient office in Bryan/College Station, Texas. This state-of-the-art facility, located at 2445 Harvey Mitchell Parkway South, aims to enhance customer access and experience. Features will include a teller line, ATM, and five drive-thru lanes. The bank's Chairman, F. Scott Dueser, emphasized the strategic importance of this location, which will also house a commercial lending team and various banking services.