REPUBLIC FIRST BANCORP - FRBK STOCK NEWS

Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: FRBK) has received a notification from NASDAQ regarding non-compliance with listing rules due to delays in filing its Quarterly Report for Q1 2022 and the Annual Report for 2021. This situation arises from an ongoing independent review by the Audit Committee, which involves related party transactions and internal controls. The Company has until May 31, 2022 to submit a compliance plan to NASDAQ, which may extend the grace period for up to 180 days if accepted.

Republic First Bancorp (NASDAQ: FRBK) has appointed Harry D. Madonna as interim Chairman of the Board, succeeding Vernon W. Hill II, who remains a director and CEO. This transition follows the passing of director Theodore J. Flocco Jr.. Madonna has over 30 years of banking experience and previously served as Chairman and CEO of the Bank. Additionally, Lisa R. Jacobs has been named Corporate Secretary. The appointments aim to ensure continuity and leadership within the company amid recent changes.

Republic First Bancorp (NASDAQ: FRBK) mourns the loss of longtime Director Theodore J. Flocco, Jr., who passed away recently. An esteemed CPA with over 35 years at Ernst & Young, Flocco had significant influence in banking, particularly at Republic Bank, where he served since 2008. His contributions aided the bank's growth in Philadelphia and New York. Republic Bank continues to expand as part of its growth strategy, offering flexible services and free checking. The bank maintains a commitment to enhancing technology for a secure digital experience.

Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: FRBK) announced the hiring of Donald Greenleaf as Vice President, Commercial Lending for Bucks County. With 25 years in banking, Greenleaf previously served as Vice President at Firstrust Bank, driving business growth in commercial and retail sectors. His expertise is expected to strengthen Republic Bank's commercial loan portfolio as part of its expansion strategy in the region. The bank continues to enhance its services, including extended hours and a robust digital experience, as it implements its growth plan.

Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: FRBK) has announced the hiring of Robert McKenna as Senior Vice President and Susan Aminov as Vice President, both based in Long Island. McKenna brings over 35 years of commercial lending experience, previously at Valley National Bank, while Aminov has two decades of expertise in private banking, most recently at TD Wealth. This strategic move aims to enhance Republic Bank's market presence in Long Island and New York City as part of its growth plan, emphasizing exceptional customer service and advanced technology offerings.

Driver Management Company has filed a definitive proxy statement urging Republic First Bancorp shareholders to vote for three independent director candidates at the 2022 Annual Meeting. The firm contends that the current board, led by CEO Vernon Hill, has caused significant value destruction and poor corporate governance. Driver emphasizes the need for immediate changes in the boardroom, criticizing the indefinite postponement of the Annual Meeting amid investigations into related party transactions. They believe their candidates will bring essential banking expertise and drive value creation.

Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: FRBK) received a notification from Nasdaq on April 1, 2022, stating it is not in compliance with listing rules due to the late filing of its Annual Report for the year ending December 31, 2021. The company has 60 days to resolve this issue or present a compliance plan to regain its status. Despite the notification, there is no immediate impact on the stock's listing. The delay in filing is connected to an investigation by the audit committee regarding related party transactions under litigation.

On April 2, 2022, Republic First Bancorp (NASDAQ: FRBK) opened a new store located at 212 E. Lancaster Ave. in Wayne, PA, marking its second location on the Main Line. This strategic expansion aligns with the bank's growth focus in the Philadelphia suburbs, enhancing its customer base. The bank continues to partner with local organizations, demonstrated through a donation to Radnor Fire Company during the grand opening. Republic Bank operates 34 locations and offers a range of services including free checking and access to a vast ATM network.

Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: FRBK) announced the hiring of two executives to bolster its New York City operations. Jeffrey Wall, with over 30 years of banking experience, joins as Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager for Commercial Real Estate. John Barrett, who brings 24 years of expertise in business development, assumes the role of Vice President, Relationship Manager. CEO Vernon W. Hill, II, emphasized the value these hires will add to the bank's growth and market presence.