Southern First Bancshares Receives Positive Valuation Adjustment Amid Strong Financial Performance
Southern First Bancshares, Inc. has received a positive valuation grade adjustment, moving from fair to attractive, based on its strong financial metrics including a P/E ratio of 16 and a price-to-book value of 0.87. The company's performance is further highlighted by a return on equity of 5.41%, consistent positive quarterly results, and a 33.55% stock return over the past year, significantly outperforming the S&P 500. This adjustment underscores its robust market position and appeal within the regional banking sector.
Southern First Bancshares (NASDAQ:SFST) Upgraded to "Buy" at Wall Street Zen
Wall Street Zen has upgraded Southern First Bancshares (NASDAQ:SFST) from a "hold" to a "buy" rating. This upgrade comes as other analysts have issued varying reports, with Piper Sandler raising its price target to $64.00 and maintaining an "overweight" rating, while Zacks Research downgraded the stock to a "hold." The company recently reported strong quarterly earnings, surpassing analyst estimates, and has seen notable insider selling and institutional investment activity.
Precision Trading with Southern First Bancshares Inc. (SFST) Risk Zones
This article provides a precision trading analysis for Southern First Bancshares Inc. (SFST), identifying strong sentiment across all horizons but elevated downside risk due to a lack of long-term support signals. It outlines specific institutional trading strategies including position, momentum breakout, and risk hedging, along with multi-timeframe signal analysis to guide investors.
Southern First Bancshares announces office closures across multiple cities
Southern First Bancshares has announced the closure of its offices in Greenville, Atlanta, Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greensboro on Monday, January 26, 2026. This temporary measure is part of the bank's strategy to streamline services and maintain organizational excellence. Customers requiring assistance on the closure date are advised to contact the bank directly at 877-679-9646.
Southern First Bancshares Posts Strong Results In An Attractive Market (NASDAQ:SFST)
Southern First Bancshares (SFST) is rated a Buy due to strong Q4 2025 results, outperforming EPS estimates, and achieving significant full-year EPS growth. The company benefits from revenue gains, cost control, and a favorable economic environment in South Carolina. Trading at 1.31x tangible book value, SFST presents potential upside given recent peer M&A multiples.
Southern First: Fourth Quarter Earnings Overview
Southern First Bancshares announced its fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 financial results. For the fourth quarter, the company reported a net profit of $9.9 million, earning $1.21 per share, with net revenue of $31.8 million, which was below analyst expectations. For the entire year, Southern First Bancshares achieved a total profit of $30.4 million and $3.75 per share, with annual revenue of $118.1 million.
Southern First: Fourth Quarter Earnings Overview
Southern First Bancshares announced its fourth-quarter financial results, reporting a net profit of $9.9 million and earnings of $1.21 per share. Total revenue for the quarter was $57.6 million, with net revenue at $31.8 million after interest expenses, which was below analyst expectations. For the full year, the company posted a profit of $30.4 million ($3.75 per share) on $118.1 million in annual revenue.
Southern First Reports Fourth Quarter 2025 Results
Southern First Bancshares, Inc. announced strong financial results for the fourth quarter of 2025, with diluted earnings per common share up 13% from Q3 2025 and 73% compared to Q4 2024. The bank achieved solid loan growth, funded by increased client deposits, and an expanding net interest margin. The CEO, Art Seaver, highlighted continued momentum, strengthened balance sheet with higher capital levels, and outstanding asset quality, expressing optimism for further improvements in the new year.
Southern First: Q4 Earnings Snapshot
Southern First Bancshares Inc. reported net income of $9.9 million, or $1.21 per share, for its fourth quarter. The company's revenue net of interest expense was $31.8 million, failing to meet Street forecasts. For the full year, Southern First reported a profit of $30.4 million on revenue of $118.1 million.
Southern First Bancshares (SFST) Projected to Post Quarterly Earnings on Tuesday
Southern First Bancshares (SFST) is expected to report its Q4 2025 earnings before market open on Tuesday, January 27th, with analysts projecting $1.11 EPS and $31.90 million in revenue. The bank surpassed estimates in the previous quarter with $1.07 EPS. The stock is currently trading near its 12-month high and has a consensus "Hold" rating from analysts.
Zacks Research Downgrades Southern First Bancshares (NASDAQ:SFST) to Hold
Zacks Research has downgraded Southern First Bancshares (NASDAQ:SFST) from a "strong-buy" to a "hold" rating, as reported on January 8, 2026. This follows other analyst actions, with the stock currently holding a consensus "Hold" rating and an average price target of $51.00. The article also details recent financial performance, insider transactions, and institutional ownership of the company's stock.
FY2023 Earnings Estimate for Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ:SFST) Issued By DA Davidson
DA Davidson has revised its FY2023 earnings estimates for Southern First Bancshares (NASDAQ:SFST), lowering the projected earnings per share to $3.87 from $3.95. The firm maintains an "Outperform" rating for the bank. Southern First Bancshares also saw an insider purchase of 1,000 shares by Director David G. Ellison and significant holdings by institutional investors and hedge funds, which collectively own 79.38% of the stock.
CEO Seaver Jr Sells 10,000 ($551.4K) Of Southern First Bancshares Inc [SFST]
R. Arthur Seaver Jr., CEO of Southern First Bancshares Inc. (SFST), filed a Form 4 disclosing changes in ownership. On December 15, 2025, Seaver Jr. exercised 10,000 shares at $35.65 and subsequently sold 10,000 shares at $55.14, totaling $551,419. After these transactions, his direct holdings stand at 107,654 shares.
Insider Selling: Southern First Bancshares (NASDAQ:SFST) Director Sells 1,000 Shares of Stock
Southern First Bancshares Director David Ellison recently sold 1,000 shares of SFST stock for $53.28 per share, totaling $53,280. This transaction reduced his holding by 1.97% to 49,661 shares. The company's stock is trading near its one-year high, and Southern First Bancshares reported strong quarterly earnings, beating analyst estimates.
Ellison, director at Southern First Bancshares, sells $53,285 in stock
David G. Ellison, a director at Southern First Bancshares Inc (NASDAQ:SFST), sold 1,000 shares of common stock for a total of $53,285 on December 10, 2025. This transaction comes as SFST trades near its 52-week high, having increased 43.6% in the last six months. Ellison now directly owns 49,661 shares of the company.
Ellison, director at Southern First Bancshares, sells $53,285 in stock
David G. Ellison, a director at Southern First Bancshares Inc (NASDAQ:SFST), sold 1,000 shares of common stock for $53,285 on December 10, 2025. This transaction occurred as SFST trades near its 52-week high, following a significant 43.6% price increase over the last six months. Ellison now directly owns 49,661 shares after the sale.
Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ:SFST) is largely controlled by institutional shareholders who own 63% of the company
Institutional shareholders collectively own 63% of Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ:SFST), indicating their significant influence over the company's stock price. The top 8 shareholders account for over half of the share register, with hedge funds specifically holding 17%. Insiders own about US$26 million worth of shares, showing some alignment with the company's performance.
Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ:SFST) is largely controlled by institutional shareholders who own 63% of the company
Institutional shareholders collectively own 63% of Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ:SFST), indicating their significant influence over the company's stock price and decisions. The top 8 shareholders account for more than half of the company, with FJ Capital Management, LLC being the largest at 9.9% ownership. Insiders also hold a notable US$26 million worth of shares, representing a good alignment of interests.
Greenville-based Southern First Bank adds to its C-suite
Southern First Bank, headquartered in Greenville, has appointed Julie Fairchild as its new chief accounting officer. Fairchild brings over 25 years of experience and has been with Southern First since 2005, previously serving as executive vice president of accounting and finance. In her new role, she will continue to lead the accounting team and contribute to the bank's financial strategy amid its continued growth.
Southern First Bancshares (NASDAQ:SFST) Upgraded at Wall Street Zen
Southern First Bancshares (NASDAQ:SFST) has been upgraded by Wall Street Zen to a "buy" rating and by Zacks to a "strong-buy," resulting in an average analyst consensus of "Buy" with a price target of $51.00. The company exceeded quarterly expectations, reporting $1.07 EPS against an estimated $0.89 and $31.13M in revenue versus $30.20M. Institutional ownership accounts for 75% of the stock, with major funds recently increasing their stakes.
Insider Sell: Julie Fairchild Sells Shares of Southern First Ban
Julie Fairchild, the Chief Accounting Officer of Southern First Bancshares Inc (SFST), sold 1,258 shares of the company on November 21, 2025. This transaction leaves her with 5,960 shares. The stock is currently trading at $50 per share, with a market cap of $418.468 million and a P/E ratio of 15.82, and is considered significantly overvalued based on its GF Value of $39.19.
Insider Buying: David Ellison Acquires Shares of Southern First Bancshares Inc (SFST)
David Ellison, a Director at Southern First Bank and subsidiary of Southern First Bancshares Inc (SFST), purchased 200 shares on November 3, 2025, increasing his total holdings to 50,661 shares. The company's stock was trading at $43.5, making it modestly overvalued according to its GF Value of $39.77. Over the last year, there have been 6 insider buys and 4 insider sells for Southern First Bancshares Inc.
Southern First Bancshares director Ellison buys $4400 in stock
David G. Ellison, a director at Southern First Bancshares Inc (NASDAQ:SFST), purchased 100 shares of common stock for $44.0 each, totaling $4400, on October 31, 2025. Following this transaction, Ellison directly owns 50,461 shares of the company. This insider trading activity indicates a director's continued investment in the company.
Southern First Welcomes Brandon Rich as Executive Director of Market Support
Southern First has announced the appointment of Brandon Rich as its new Executive Director of Market Support. In this role, Rich will lead the Market Support team, focusing on enhancing client experiences and operational excellence. Rich previously served as President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greenville.
Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC Acquires Shares of 16,368 Southern First Bancshares, Inc. $SFST
Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC has acquired 16,368 shares of Southern First Bancshares, valued at approximately $654,000, representing 0.20% of the company's holdings. Southern First Bancshares reported strong earnings per share in its last quarter, surpassing analyst estimates, leading to an "overweight" rating upgrade from Piper Sandler. Other institutional investors have also adjusted their stakes in SFST, and the stock has seen a 1.4% increase.
SOUTHERN FIRST ANNOUNCES THREE NEW APPOINTMENTS TO BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Southern First Bancshares, Inc. announced the appointment of three new board members: Jennie Cluverius, Darrin Goss, and Billy McClatchey, effective June 1, 2025. These appointments aim to strengthen the board with experienced leaders who have strong community ties, supporting the bank's continued growth. Each new director brings a diverse background in law, community leadership, and real estate and finance.
Southern First Bancshares Hits New 52-Week High of $46.40
Southern First Bancshares, Inc. has reached a new 52-week high of $46.40, marking a significant 72.51% increase over the past year. The company showcases strong financial performance with a market capitalization of USD 369 million, a P/E ratio of 16.00, and positive net interest income for three consecutive quarters. Its robust fundamentals and solid institutional ownership indicate a strong position in the regional banking sector.
Southern First Bancshares Reports Strong Q2 2025 Results
Southern First Bancshares (SFST) announced strong Q2 2025 earnings, reporting a 24% increase in revenue year-over-year and a 25% increase in diluted earnings per share to $0.81 compared to the previous quarter. The company maintained strong asset quality with nonperforming assets at 0.27% of total assets and saw total loans grow to $3.7 billion, an annualized 7% increase. Southern First Bancshares, which operates in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia, is optimistic about continued growth supported by a solid balance sheet and business pipeline.
On the Move: Darrin Goss
Darrin Goss has joined Southern First Bancshares Inc. as a director. He previously served as president and CEO of the Coastal Community Foundation in Charleston since 2016. Goss brings extensive experience from various leadership roles, including at Capital Area United Way and United Way of Greenville County, and is a U.S. Army veteran.
On the Move: Wes Wilbanks
Wes Wilbanks has been promoted to chief credit officer and executive vice president at Southern First Bancshares Inc., the holding company for Southern First Bank. Wilbanks brings 25 years of industry experience, having joined Southern First in 2021 as senior credit risk officer. He is a graduate of both the South Carolina Bankers School and LSU Graduate School of Banking.
Southern First Bancshares Inc reports results for the quarter ended March 31 - Earnings Summary
Southern First Bancshares Inc (SFST) reported an adjusted EPS of 65 cents for the quarter ended March 31, surpassing both last year's 31 cents and the analyst forecast of 61 cents. Revenue also exceeded expectations, reaching $23.38 million. Despite this strong performance, the company's shares have declined this quarter and year-to-date, with analysts currently holding a "hold" rating and a median 12-month price target of $37.00.
Southern First Founder & CEO Art Seaver Awarded Order of the Palmetto
Art Seaver, Founder and CEO of Southern First Bancshares, Inc., has been awarded the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina's highest civilian honor. This award recognizes Seaver's lifetime of exceptional achievement and service, including his role in founding Southern First in 1999 and his extensive involvement with numerous community nonprofits. The presentation was made by Jimmy Orders, Chairman of the Board of Directors, during Southern First’s 25th Anniversary Celebration.
Southern First Promotes Wes Wilbanks to Chief Credit Officer
Southern First Bancshares, Inc. announced the promotion of Wes Wilbanks to Chief Credit Officer and Executive Vice President. Wilbanks, a 25-year banking veteran, joined Southern First in 2021 as Senior Credit Risk Officer and will now lead the company's growth and risk management goals. Southern First is a bank holding company operating in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia with approximately $4.1 billion in consolidated assets.
Southern First Promotes Wes Wilbanks to Chief Credit Officer
Southern First Bancshares, Inc. announced the promotion of Wes Wilbanks to Chief Credit Officer and Executive Vice President. Wilbanks, a 25-year banking veteran, joined Southern First in 2021 as Senior Credit Risk Officer. In his new role, he will continue to support the company's growth and risk management goals, as stated by CEO Art Seaver.
Southern First Promotes Wes Wilbanks to Chief Credit Officer
Southern First Bancshares, Inc. announced the promotion of Wes Wilbanks to Chief Credit Officer and Executive Vice President. Wilbanks, a 25-year banking veteran, joined Southern First in 2021 as Senior Credit Risk Officer and will now lead the company's credit team in supporting growth and risk management goals. Southern First is a South Carolina-based bank holding company with approximately $4.1 billion in consolidated assets.
SOUTHERN FIRST NAMED NO. 5 BEST BANK BY BANK DIRECTOR IN ANNUAL RANKING OF 300 LARGEST PUBLICLY TRADED BANKS
Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: SFST) has been recognized as the No. 5 Best Overall Bank in Bank Director's annual "Ranking Banking" Report. This study identifies top publicly traded banks based on profitability, asset quality, capital adequacy, and total shareholder return. The CEO, Art Seaver, highlighted this recognition as a validation of their vision to create a financial institution focused on relationships, client experience, organic growth, and a family culture.
SOUTHERN FIRST NAMES CAL HURST AS PRESIDENT
Southern First Bancshares, Inc. has appointed Cal Hurst as its new President. Hurst previously served as Chief Banking Officer and Executive Vice President since 2019, overseeing key strategic growth areas. He has over 16 years of banking experience and is actively involved in the Upstate community.
Southern First rolls out new HQ to customers, community
Southern First Bank has unveiled its new five-story, 107,000-square-foot headquarters in Greenville, designed to be warm, welcoming, and progressive, aiming to redefine traditional bank architecture. The new building provides ample space for employees, clients, and community events, reflecting the bank's commitment to its community and its future growth. CEO Art Seaver emphasizes the building as a statement of belief in the future and a tool for recruiting top talent, affirming the bank's long-term vision and client-first mentality.
SOUTHERN FIRST BANK OPENS NEW HEADQUARTERS IN GREENVILLE, SC
Southern First Bank has opened its new corporate headquarters at 6 Verdae Boulevard in Greenville, S.C., marking an investment in its clients, team members, and continued organic growth. The 107,000 square-foot building features modern meeting spaces, collaboration areas, industry-leading technology such as Interactive Teller Machines, and a partnership with Southern Pressed Juicery. This move reinforces Southern First's commitment to community, strong relationships, progressive technology, and a servant heart culture, as stated by CEO Art Seaver.
What’s here + what’s to come in Summerville’s Nexton community
The Nexton community in Summerville, a 5,000-acre development, is rapidly expanding with numerous residential, retail, dining, and service options. This article details what is currently available and what is planned for future development within this large-scale project. The first shopping center, Nexton Square, is projected to be completed in 2020.
Springfield joins Southern First, MPA under new ownership
This article details numerous personnel changes and recognitions in the Upstate business community. Key updates include Trish Springfield joining Southern First as EVP of retail banking, Ashley Hunter becoming the new owner and CEO of MPA Strategies, and several individuals being appointed to various boards and positions in banking, real estate, and law. Additionally, several companies, including Milliken and Company, Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, and Gabriel Builders, received awards and distinctions.
