First Seacoast Bancorp, Inc. Authorizes Stock Repurchase Program

Rhea-AI Summary

First Seacoast Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSEA) authorizes a stock repurchase program for up to 507,707 shares, about 10% of outstanding shares. The program will start after filing Form 10-Q for March 31, 2024, with the SEC. Repurchases will be on the open market under SEC Rule 10b5-1, subject to market conditions. The program expires 12 months after the effective date, with no guarantee on the final repurchased shares.

Insights

Market Research Analyst

The authorization of a stock repurchase program by First Seacoast Bancorp represents a strategic decision that can have several implications on its stock valuation and investor sentiment. When a company buys back its shares, it typically signals a self-assessment of undervaluation or a surplus of cash that it opts to return to shareholders rather than reinvesting in the business. This can lead to an increase in earnings per share (EPS) due to a reduced share count, potentially causing the stock price to rise if the market views the buyback as a positive signal regarding the company's future prospects.

Moreover, the repurchase plan, which encompasses a significant 10% of the outstanding shares, could also indicate management's confidence in the company's financial health and stability. However, investors should be mindful of the fact that buybacks can sometimes be used to artificially inflate stock prices or to offset the dilution from employee stock compensation. Therefore, while the announcement may generate short-term positive momentum in the stock price, the long-term effects will largely depend on the underlying financial performance and strategic direction of the company.

Financial Analyst

From a financial standpoint, the repurchase program's impact on First Seacoast Bancorp's capital structure should be examined. The reduction in common stock outstanding will improve return on equity (ROE) by decreasing the equity base. This could be viewed favorably by investors seeking efficiency in capital utilization. However, it's important to consider the source of funding for the repurchase. If the company is using debt to finance the buyback, it may lead to higher leverage ratios, which could be a concern if earnings are volatile or if the company operates in a cyclical industry.

Additionally, the timing of the repurchase, set to occur after the filing of the quarterly report, suggests the company is waiting to provide full disclosure of its financials, which could influence the repurchase strategy. This transparency is important for maintaining investor trust. The use of an SEC Rule 10b5-1 trading plan also adds a layer of compliance and automation to the repurchase process, potentially mitigating concerns of insider trading and ensuring repurchases occur without regard to any subsequent material non-public information the company may receive.

DOVER, N.H.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- First Seacoast Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”) (Nasdaq Capital Market: FSEA), the holding company for First Seacoast Bank, announced today it has authorized a stock repurchase program for up to 507,707 shares of common stock, representing approximately 10% of shares currently outstanding, to be effective as soon as practicable after the Company files its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ending March 31, 2024, with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).

The Company intends to conduct the repurchases on the open market, including by means of a trading plan adopted under SEC Rule 10b5-1, subject to market conditions and other factors. There is no guarantee as to the number of shares that the Company may ultimately repurchase. The program will expire 12 months after the effective date, regardless of whether all shares will have been repurchased. The Company may suspend or discontinue the program at any time.

About First Seacoast Bank

First Seacoast Bank is a federally-chartered stock savings bank serving the financial needs of residents of the Seacoast region of New Hampshire. First Seacoast Bank operates four full-service offices in Strafford County, New Hampshire, and one full-service office in Rockingham County, New Hampshire.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements about the stock repurchase program. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding anticipated future events and can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They often include words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” and “intend” or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” or “may.” Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results include the Company’s inability to execute the repurchase program due to stock market conditions or otherwise.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240411302423/en/

James R. Brannen

President and Chief Executive Officer

First Seacoast Bancorp, Inc.

(603) 742-4680

Source: First Seacoast Bancorp, Inc.

FAQ

What is the ticker symbol for First Seacoast Bancorp, Inc.?

The ticker symbol for First Seacoast Bancorp, Inc. is FSEA.

How many shares of common stock is the stock repurchase program for?

The stock repurchase program is for up to 507,707 shares of common stock.

When will the stock repurchase program start?

The stock repurchase program will start after the Company files its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ending March 31, 2024, with the SEC.

Under what conditions will the repurchases be conducted?

The repurchases will be conducted on the open market, including by means of a trading plan adopted under SEC Rule 10b5-1, subject to market conditions and other factors.

How long will the stock repurchase program last?

The program will expire 12 months after the effective date, regardless of whether all shares will have been repurchased.

Can the stock repurchase program be suspended or discontinued?

Yes, the Company may suspend or discontinue the program at any time.