FIRST MERCHANTS

The stock of First Merchants climbed to a 52-week high of 44.6 USD and is thus at 99% of its peak value. Year-to-date the stock shows a total return of 12.28% and a gain of 18.93% since the start of the year; dividends have been raised for 14 consecutive years and the yield is 3.38%. In the first quarter EPS beat expectations at 1.03 USD, but revenue missed (157.1 million USD vs. expected 188.43 million USD); a quarterly cash dividend of 0.37 USD was announced. With a P/E ratio of 13.04, InvestingPro still classifies the stock as undervalued; Paul Fultz was also appointed to the board of directors. » Altro su de.investing.com

First Merchants Corporation has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.36 per common share, equivalent to an annual yield of 3.43%. The board made the decision on February 9, 2026. Shareholders of record on March 6, 2026, will receive the payment on March 20, 2026. First Merchants thus continues its 37-year streak of uninterrupted dividend payments and has raised the dividend for 14 consecutive years. » Altro su de.investing.com

First Merchants reported net income of $56.6 million for Q4 2025 (EPS $0.99), beating analyst expectations. Loans grew by $197.4 million in the quarter (annualized 5.8%) and deposits increased by 11.4%; net interest margin improved to 3.29%. For 2025 the firm reported annual net income of $224.1 million, loan growth of 7.3%, and higher capital ratios. The upcoming acquisition of First Savings Financial Group will add about $2.4 billion to the balance sheet and is intended to strengthen the market position in the Midwest; loan growth of 6–8% is expected for 2026. Management plans further buybacks and cost synergies but sees integration and margin risks. » Altro su de.investing.com