First Merchants (FRME): Buy, Sell, or Hold Post Q4 Earnings?
This article analyzes First Merchants (FRME) after its Q4 earnings, suggesting it's not a strong buying opportunity. The authors point to disappointing long-term revenue growth, soft net interest income demand, and sluggish EPS growth as reasons for their lack of confidence, despite a fair valuation. They recommend investors consider other "safe-and-steady industrials" instead of FRME.
Small Business of the Month: Ditch Witch Mid-States
The Columbus Blue Jackets and First Merchants Bank have recognized Ditch Witch Mid-States as their Small Business of the Month for January. This company, run by Matt and Tania Di Iorio, specializes in environmentally friendly underground construction equipment using "trenchless technology." The Di Iorios, avid Blue Jackets fans, attended a game where they were celebrated.
Will Dividend Hike And Board Expansion Around First Savings Deal Change First Merchants' (FRME) Narrative
First Merchants Corporation recently declared a cash dividend of $0.36 per common share and appointed veteran community banker Larry Myers to its board, linking governance to its First Savings acquisition and capital return plans. This move reinforces the bank's strategy of steady earnings, disciplined capital return, and acquisition integration, though the key challenge remains achieving post-acquisition earnings growth while managing rising funding costs and deposit competition. The article suggests that while the dividend hike and board expansion signal stability, investors should still be cautious about the impact of funding costs and brokered deposits on margins.
Is It Time To Reassess First Merchants (FRME) After Recent Share Price Stability?
This article reassesses First Merchants (FRME) after recent share price stability, noting its current stock price of US$42.05. Using two valuation approaches, Excess Returns Analysis and Price vs Earnings, Simply Wall St suggests the stock is undervalued by 47.9% and also appears undervalued based on its P/E ratio compared to its industry and fair ratio. The article encourages investors to use its "Narratives" tool to personalize their valuation based on their own assumptions.
Is It Time To Reassess First Merchants (FRME) After Recent Share Price Stability?
First Merchants (FRME) shares have shown recent stability after a challenging year. A Simply Wall St analysis suggests the stock is undervalued by 47.9% based on Excess Returns and also appears undervalued when comparing its P/E ratio of 10.69x to its calculated Fair Ratio of 12.76x. The article encourages investors to use "Narratives" on Simply Wall St to personalize their valuation based on future revenue, earnings, and margin forecasts.
ProShare Advisors LLC Has $12.18 Million Stock Position in First Merchants Corporation $FRME
ProShare Advisors LLC increased its stake in First Merchants Corporation (NASDAQ:FRME) by 84.2% in the third quarter, bringing their total holdings to 323,180 shares valued at $12.18 million. Other institutional investors also adjusted their positions, and the bank recently declared a quarterly dividend of $0.36 per share. First Merchants reported strong Q4 earnings, beating analyst estimates, and currently has a "Hold" rating from equities analysts with an average price target of $47.75.
First Merchants Corporation Plans Quarterly Dividend of $0.36 (NASDAQ:FRME)
First Merchants Corporation (NASDAQ:FRME) has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.36 per share, payable on March 20th to shareholders of record as of March 6th. This dividend, which represents an annualized payout of $1.44 and a 3.4% yield, is considered sustainable given the bank's 13 consecutive years of dividend increases and a payout ratio of 35.8%. Analysts project First Merchants will earn $4.06 per share next year, more than covering the dividend, and the company recently beat EPS and revenue estimates in its last quarterly report.
Larry Myers joins First Merchants Corporation board after merger By Investing.com
First Merchants Corporation (NASDAQ:FRME) has appointed Larry Myers to its Board of Directors and to the board of First Merchants Bank following the merger with First Savings Bank. Myers, formerly President and CEO of First Savings Bank, brings extensive banking experience to the $21.4 billion financial holding company. This appointment further strengthens First Merchants' strategic and governance capabilities and expands its presence in southern Indiana.
First Merchants declares quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share By Investing.com
First Merchants Corporation (NASDAQ:FRME) has announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per common share, representing an annual dividend yield of 3.43%. This continues their 37-year track record of dividend payments and 14 consecutive years of increases. The dividend, approved on February 9, 2026, will be paid on March 20, 2026, to shareholders of record as of March 6, 2026.
First Merchants Corporation Announces Cash Dividend
First Merchants Corporation announced a cash dividend of $0.36 per common share, declared on February 9, 2026. This dividend is scheduled to be paid on March 20, 2026, to shareholders on record as of March 6, 2026. The company, headquartered in Muncie, Indiana, trades its common stock on the NASDAQ Global Select Market System under the symbol FRME.
Indiana’s First Merchants to pay $0.36 a share in March
First Merchants Corporation (NASDAQ: FRME) declared a cash dividend of $0.36 per common share on February 9, 2026. The dividend is payable on March 20, 2026, to shareholders of record as of March 6, 2026. The financial holding company is headquartered in Muncie, Indiana, and operates First Merchants Bank and First Merchants Private Wealth Advisors.
First Merchants Corporation Announces Cash Dividend
First Merchants Corporation declared a cash dividend of $0.36 per common share on February 9, 2026. This dividend is payable on March 20, 2026, to shareholders of record as of March 6, 2026. First Merchants Corporation is a financial holding company based in Muncie, Indiana, with its common stock traded on NASDAQ under the symbol FRME.
First Merchants Corporation Announces Cash Dividend
First Merchants Corporation declared a cash dividend of $0.36 per common share on February 9, 2026. The dividend is payable on March 20, 2026, to shareholders of record as of March 6, 2026. The company is a financial holding company headquartered in Muncie, Indiana, and its stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market System under the symbol FRME.
BridgePort Financial Solutions LLC Invests $2.11 Million in First Merchants Corporation $FRME
BridgePort Financial Solutions LLC has acquired a new stake of 55,826 shares, valued at $2.11 million, in First Merchants Corporation (NASDAQ:FRME) during the third quarter. This investment by BridgePort Financial Solutions LLC represents 0.10% of First Merchants's stock. The article also details other institutional investor activities, company financial performance, dividend announcements, insider transactions, and analyst ratings for First Merchants.
Larry Myers joins First Merchants Corporation board after merger
First Merchants Corporation has appointed Larry Myers to its Board of Directors and to the board of First Merchants Bank following the merger with First Savings Bank and First Savings Financial Group, Inc. Myers brings extensive banking experience and leadership, having served as President and CEO of First Savings Bank for nearly two decades. This appointment solidifies First Merchants' expanded presence in southern Indiana and enhances its strategic capabilities, building on a profitable year and exceeding analyst expectations in its recent fourth-quarter earnings report.
First Merchants (NASDAQ:FRME) Insider Eva Scurlock Sells 3,227 Shares
First Merchants (NASDAQ:FRME) insider Eva Scurlock sold 3,227 shares of the company's stock on February 6th at an average price of $42.29, totaling over $136,000. This sale reduced her position by 13.86% to 20,063 shares. The company recently reported Q4 earnings that beat analyst estimates and offers a quarterly dividend with an annual yield of approximately 3.4%.
Larry Myers joins First Merchants Corporation board after merger By Investing.com
Larry Myers has been appointed to the Board of Directors for First Merchants Corporation and First Merchants Bank following the merger between First Merchants and First Savings Bank. Myers, who is stepping down as President and CEO of First Savings Bank, brings extensive banking experience that will enhance the board's strategic and governance capabilities. This appointment expands First Merchants' presence in southern Indiana and follows a strong financial performance in Q4 2025.
First Merchants Adds Larry Myers to Expanded Board
First Merchants Corporation expanded its Board of Directors to 13 members and appointed Larry W. Myers to a new Class III seat, effective February 9, 2026. This appointment follows the February 1, 2026 merger with First Savings Bank, reinforcing the company's governance and growth strategy in southern Indiana. Myers brings extensive community banking experience and knowledge of the southern Indiana market to his new role.
First Merchants Corp Appoints Larry W. Myers to Board of Directors
First Merchants Corporation announced the appointment of Larry W. Myers to its Board of Directors on February 9, 2026, to fill a new vacancy. Mr. Myers will serve until the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and has also been appointed to the Risk and Credit Policy Committee. This appointment is part of a board expansion as detailed in an SEC filing.
Assessing First Merchants (FRME) Valuation After Annual Earnings Highlight Net Income Growth And Higher Net Charge Offs
First Merchants (FRME) recently reported full-year 2025 earnings, showing increased net interest income and net income, despite higher net charge-offs in the most recent quarter. The stock has seen a 17.55% return over 90 days and is considered 9.6% undervalued, with a fair value estimate of $46.83 against its current price of $42.34. This valuation is supported by strong loan demand and regional economic growth, though potential risks from funding costs and commercial real estate are noted.
First Merchants completes legal closing of First Savings Financial merger
First Merchants (FRME) and First Savings Financial (FSFG) have officially completed their merger through a stock transaction, effective February 1, 2026. This follows regulatory approvals last month and an earlier announcement in late 2025 regarding the merger of First Savings Bank into First Merchants Bank. CEO Mark Hardwick stated that the merger will expand First Merchants' capabilities and strengthen its ability to serve Indiana communities.
First Merchants completes acquisition of First Savings Financial
First Merchants (FRME) has successfully completed its stock-based acquisition of First Savings Financial Group on February 1, 2026. This merger increases First Merchants' total assets to approximately $21.4 billion, solidifying its position as the second-largest financial holding company headquartered in Indiana and expanding its regional presence. The integration of operations is anticipated to conclude by the second quarter of 2026, with the deal expected to enhance scale, diversification, and community-focused services.
How Stronger Earnings and Rising Credit Costs At First Merchants (FRME) Have Changed Its Investment Story
First Merchants Corporation recently reported strong full-year 2025 results, with increased net interest income and net income, alongside higher basic and diluted earnings per share. However, the bank also disclosed a significant rise in quarterly net charge-offs to US$6.02 million, signaling emerging credit costs. This article explores how these stronger earnings, coupled with rising credit losses, are reshaping First Merchants' investment narrative and its risk-return profile.
First Merchants Corporation (NASDAQ:FRME) Institutional Owners May Be Pleased With Recent Gains After 7.2% Loss Over the Past Year
Institutional investors hold a substantial 78% ownership in First Merchants Corporation (NASDAQ:FRME), suggesting significant influence on its share price. Despite experiencing a 7.2% loss over the past year, these institutional holders are likely pleased with a recent 4.4% increase in the stock price. The top 17 investors collectively own 51% of the company, and insiders hold a meaningful stake of US$38 million, indicating alignment with shareholder interests.
Is First Merchants (FRME) Pricing Look Attractive After Recent Regional Bank Sector Focus
First Merchants (FRME) appears significantly undervalued, scoring 5 out of 6 on Simply Wall St's valuation checklist. An Excess Returns analysis suggests a 49.5% undervaluation with an intrinsic value of $78.69 per share against a current price of $39.76. Additionally, its current P/E ratio of 10.10x is below its Fair Ratio of 12.61x, indicating potential undervaluation based on earnings.
Strs Ohio Sells 159,752 Shares of First Merchants Corporation $FRME
Strs Ohio significantly reduced its stake in First Merchants Corporation (NASDAQ:FRME) by 87.2% in the third quarter, selling 159,752 shares and retaining 23,500 shares valued at $886,000. Despite this sell-off, First Merchants recently beat Q4 earnings and revenue consensus estimates and reiterated a 6–8% loan growth target for 2026, driven by the integration of First Savings. The stock currently holds a consensus "Hold" rating from analysts with an average price target of $47.60, and pays a quarterly dividend yielding approximately 3.8%.
First Merchants Bank turns record annual profit of $224 million
First Merchants Bank reported a record annual profit of $224.1 million last year, with earnings per share of $3.88. The Muncie-based bank, which is Indiana's second-largest, made $56.6 million in the fourth quarter. CEO Mark Hardwick attributed the strong performance to double-digit earnings and high single-digit loan growth, along with solid capital and liquidity positions.
First Merchants (FRME) Earnings Growth And 34.9% Margin Reinforce Bullish Narratives
First Merchants (FRME) reported strong FY 2025 results with US$641.70 million in revenue and EPS of US$3.90, marking a 12.3% earnings growth and a net margin of 34.9%. Despite a solid financial performance and an attractive valuation compared to its DCF fair value, the company faces scrutiny regarding non-performing loans, which range from US$59.1 million to US$81.9 million. The article suggests that while bullish narratives are supported by growth and profitability, investors should also consider balance sheet resilience alongside valuation and growth forecasts.
FRME Q4 Deep Dive: Loan Growth, Deposit Trends, and First Savings Acquisition Shape Outlook
First Merchants (FRME) announced better-than-expected revenue and adjusted EPS for Q4 CY2025, driven by strong loan growth, disciplined deposit management, and margin resilience, despite a revenue decline. The company's future outlook is shaped by the integration of First Savings Group, aiming for cost synergies, sustained loan and fee income growth, and positive operating leverage. Management projects mid-to-high single-digit loan growth, stable margins, and double-digit noninterest income growth, with the First Savings acquisition expanding its footprint and market opportunities.
Earnings call transcript: First Merchants beats Q4 2025 earnings forecast
First Merchants Corporation reported strong Q4 2025 earnings, surpassing EPS and revenue forecasts with $0.98 EPS and $178.36 million in revenue. The company achieved record total assets of $19 billion and saw 11.4% deposit growth, driven by strategic expansion and acquisitions like First Savings Group. Despite the positive financial results, the stock showed minimal movement in premarket trading, indicating stable investor sentiment.
Earnings call transcript: First Merchants beats Q4 2025 earnings forecast
First Merchants Corporation (FRME) announced strong Q4 2025 earnings, surpassing analyst forecasts for both EPS ($0.98 vs. $0.95) and revenue ($178.36 million vs. $173.17 million). The company achieved record total assets of $19 billion and reported full-year net income of $224.1 million, with diluted EPS up 13.8% to $3.88. Key strategic initiatives include continued loan growth, integration of First Savings Bank, and the use of share buybacks, while maintaining an efficiency ratio below 55%.
First Merchants Q4 2025 slides: Solid loan growth and strategic expansion plans
First Merchants (NASDAQ:FRME) reported strong financial results for Q4 and full year 2025, exceeding analyst expectations with solid loan and deposit growth and increased net income. The company highlighted its strategic acquisition of First Savings Financial Group, Inc., expected to close in February 2026, which will expand its presence into Southern Indiana and the Louisville MSA. First Merchants also emphasized its robust capital position and ongoing share repurchase program, forecasting continued loan growth and non-interest income increases for 2026.
First Merchants Reports Q4 2025 Earnings, Beats Estimates
First Merchants Corporation reported strong financial results for Q4 2025 and the full year 2025, surpassing analyst expectations for both earnings and revenue. The company achieved diluted EPS of $0.99 for Q4 2025 and a record $3.88 for the full year, driven by significant growth in loans and deposits. Analysts currently maintain a "Hold" rating on the stock with an average one-year price target of $47.60.
First Merchants (NASDAQ:FRME) Misses Q4 CY2025 Sales Expectations
First Merchants (NASDAQ:FRME) missed Wall Street's revenue expectations in Q4 CY2025, with sales falling 11.5% year-on-year to $172.2 million, despite its non-GAAP profit of $0.98 per share being 3% above consensus estimates. The regional banking company showed strong tangible book value per share growth over the last two years, accelerating to 10% annually, though its overall sales growth has been tepid. CEO Mark Hardwick highlighted record double-digit earnings and high single-digit loan growth for 2025, alongside strong capital, liquidity, and credit positions.
First Merchants (NASDAQ:FRME) Misses Q4 CY2025 Sales Expectations
First Merchants (NASDAQ:FRME) reported its Q4 CY2025 earnings, missing Wall Street's revenue expectations with a 11.5% year-on-year sales decline to $172.2 million, though its non-GAAP profit of $0.98 per share beat consensus estimates. Despite record double-digit earnings and high single-digit loan growth for the full year 2025, the company's revenue growth has slowed, with net interest income comprising the majority of its earnings. The tangible book value per share exceeded analyst expectations, showing accelerated growth recently, though future growth is projected to be modest.
First Merchants (NASDAQ:FRME) Announces Quarterly Earnings Results, Beats Estimates By $0.02 EPS
First Merchants (NASDAQ:FRME) reported strong quarterly earnings, beating analyst estimates with an EPS of $0.98 and revenue of $178.36 million. Despite the positive results, the stock experienced a slight dip, trading down to $38.01. The company also announced a quarterly dividend of $0.36, and analysts currently have a "Hold" rating on the stock with an average target price of $47.60.
First Merchants: Q4 Earnings Snapshot
First Merchants Corp. reported fourth-quarter earnings of $57.1 million, or 99 cents per share, which exceeded Wall Street expectations. Adjusted earnings were 98 cents per share, surpassing the average estimate of 96 cents. The bank also posted a revenue of $160.6 million for the quarter, with its revenue net of interest expense coming in at $134.8 million, also beating Street forecasts.
First Merchants: Q4 Earnings Snapshot
First Merchants Corp. reported fourth-quarter earnings of $57.1 million, or 99 cents per share, which adjusted to 98 cents per share. These results surpassed Wall Street expectations, with revenue net of interest expense reaching $172.2 million. For the full year, the company posted a profit of $226 million on revenue of $662.9 million.
Earnings Flash (FRME) First Merchants Corporation Posts Q4 Adjusted EPS $0.98 per Share, vs. FactSet Est of $0.95
First Merchants Corporation (FRME) reported adjusted earnings per share of $0.98 for the fourth quarter, surpassing the FactSet estimate of $0.95. This financial update indicates a positive performance for the company compared to analyst expectations. The article also provides context about First Merchants Corporation's financial services and recent corporate activities, including board changes and merger announcements.
First Merchants: Q4 Earnings Snapshot
First Merchants Corp. (FRME) announced fourth-quarter earnings of $57.1 million, or 99 cents per share, surpassing Wall Street expectations. Adjusted earnings were 98 cents per share, compared to analysts' average estimate of 96 cents. The bank also reported revenue of $270.6 million and net revenue of $172.2 million, both exceeding forecasts.
First Merchants: Q4 Earnings Snapshot
First Merchants Corp. reported fourth-quarter earnings of $57.1 million, or 99 cents per share, surpassing Wall Street's expectations of 96 cents per share. The Muncie, Indiana-based bank also beat revenue forecasts with $270.6 million for the period and $172.2 million net of interest expense. For the entire year, the company achieved a profit of $226 million, or $3.88 per share, on revenues of $662.9 million.
A Look At First Merchants (FRME) Valuation As Earnings Expectations Come Into Focus
First Merchants (FRME) is currently drawing investor attention ahead of its quarterly earnings release, with expectations for a year-over-year revenue decline. Despite a 4.1% 90-day share price return, its 1-year total shareholder return shows a decline, indicating cooled momentum. Simply Wall St's analysis suggests FRME is potentially undervalued by about 50%, with a fair value of $46.83 compared to its current price of US$38.09, driven by Midwest growth and digital upgrades.
First Merchants (FRME) Reports Q4: Everything You Need To Know Ahead Of Earnings
First Merchants (FRME) is set to announce its Q4 earnings results this Monday after market hours. Analysts expect the company's revenue to decline 11% year-on-year to $173.1 million, with adjusted earnings projected at $0.95 per share. Despite missing Wall Street's revenue estimates multiple times in the past two years, analysts have largely reconfirmed their estimates, and regional banking peers have shown positive results.
Vest Financial LLC Purchases Shares of 34,399 First Merchants Corporation $FRME
Vest Financial LLC has acquired a new stake of 34,399 shares in First Merchants Corporation, valued at approximately $1.297 million, representing 0.06% of the company. Institutional investors collectively hold about 73.92% of First Merchants stock. Analysts have a "Hold" consensus rating with a $47.60 price target, alongside recent mixed ratings and the company reporting strong Q3 EPS and a 3.8% dividend yield.
What to Expect from First Merchants's Earnings
First Merchants (NASDAQ: FRME) is set to release its quarterly earnings report on Monday, January 26, 2026. Analysts are forecasting an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.96. The article provides an overview of the company's past earnings performance and its stock price movement, noting that long-term shareholders may be disappointed given the negative returns over the last 52 weeks.
Is There Still Upside In First Merchants (FRME) After Recent Regional Banking Reassessment?
Simply Wall St analyzes First Merchants (FRME) shares following a recent reassessment of the regional banking sector. The analysis, using Excess Returns and Price-to-Earnings ratios, suggests that First Merchants is currently undervalued, with an intrinsic value significantly higher than its current share price. The article encourages investors to explore these valuation approaches and consider different narratives for the company.
First Merchants Corp ADR stock hits 52-week high at 26.7 USD
First Merchants Corp ADR stock has hit a 52-week high of $26.70, reflecting a positive year with a 10.81% total return. The stock appears slightly undervalued with a P/E ratio of 9.72 and a PEG ratio of 0.29, according to InvestingPro. The company also boasts an impressive 7.1% dividend yield and a 37-year history of consistent dividend payments.
First Merchants Corp ADR stock hits 52-week high at 26.7 USD
First Merchants Corp ADR stock has reached a new 52-week high of $26.70, reflecting significant positive momentum over the past year with a 1-year total return of 10.81%. The company exhibits strong financial indicators, including a P/E ratio of 9.72 and a PEG ratio of 0.29, suggesting it may be undervalued. Additionally, First Merchants Corp boasts an attractive 7.1% dividend yield and a 37-year history of consistent dividend payments, highlighting investor confidence and resilience in the financial landscape.
First Merchants Corporation (NASDAQ:FRME) Short Interest Down 20.2% in December
First Merchants Corporation (NASDAQ:FRME) experienced a 20.2% decrease in short interest in December, totaling 911,365 shares. The company maintains a "Hold" consensus rating from analysts with an average target price of $47.60, and analysts anticipate an EPS of 3.79 for the current fiscal year. First Merchants also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.36 per share, yielding 3.8%.
First Merchants receives regulatory approvals for merger with First Savings
First Merchants Corp. has received all necessary regulatory approvals for its merger with First Savings Financial Group, Inc. The approvals include a non-objection from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, as well as prior clearances from the FDIC and the Indiana Department of Financial Institutions. The merger, which was approved by both companies' boards in September 2025 and by First Savings shareholders in December 2025, is anticipated to become effective on February 1, 2026.
