Huntington Bancshares and Cadence Bank Finalize Shareholder Approval for Merger
On January 6, 2026, Huntington Bancshares Incorporated (Nasdaq: HBAN) and Cadence Bank (NYSE: CADE) announced a significant milestone in their path toward merging. Shareholders from both institutions convened in special meetings to cast their votes on the proposed merger, and the results were overwhelmingly supportive. This pivotal approval allows Cadence to merge into The Huntington National Bank, a move that promises to enhance the banking capabilities available to their customers.
Steve Steinour, the Chairman, President and CEO of Huntington, expressed his satisfaction with the shareholder approval, highlighting it as a crucial step toward unifying the two banks. He stated, "Today's shareholder approval is an important milestone in our journey toward combining Huntington and Cadence. I am pleased our respective shareholders overwhelmingly support this combination, which will enable us to help more people and businesses across a broader footprint, while providing a compelling opportunity to grow shareholder value." He also acknowledged the contributions of Dan Rollins and the Cadence team during this process, looking forward to welcoming them into the Huntington family once the merger is finalized.
Similarly, James D. "Dan" Rollins III, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Cadence Bank, lauded the shareholder approvals for reflecting a shared commitment to community-focused banking. He remarked, "Today's shareholder approvals reflect our mutual philosophy around relationship-first, community-based banking, and the shared value and opportunities that this combination can create." This sentiment underscores the banks' alignment in values and mission, aimed at fostering strong relationships with their customers while providing comprehensive financial services.
The merger transaction, anticipated to close on February 1, 2026, is contingent upon meeting the customary closing conditions stipulated in the merger agreement. This upcoming partnership stands to redefine the banking landscape in their operational regions by leveraging the strengths of both banks to optimize service delivery and expand their operational footprint.
Huntington Bancshares, a regional bank with assets exceeding $223 billion, has been a notable player in the banking sector since its establishment in 1866. With over 1,000 branches across 14 states, the institution offers a robust suite of banking, payments, wealth management, and risk management products and services tailored to a diverse customer base. Their commitment to community and relationship-driven banking aligns closely with that of Cadence Bank.
Cadence Bank, recognized for its dedication to enhancing the prosperity of its clients and communities, operates with assets totaling around $53 billion and boasts more than 390 locations primarily throughout the South and Texas. The bank’s offerings include comprehensive banking, investment, trust, and mortgage services, poised to meet the diverse requirements of its clients. Over the years, Cadence has received accolades as one of the nation's premier employers and has been recognized among America’s Best Banks.
As both banks prepare for the merger, they are focused on ensuring a smooth transition for customers and employees alike. The integration of their operations is designed to bring about an enhanced range of products and services, maximizing the value delivered to their clients and stakeholders. This merger not only signifies a growing trend in the banking industry where larger entities seek to merge for greater efficiency and market presence but also emphasizes the importance of community-based banking in meeting customer needs in an evolving financial landscape.
In summary, the approval from shareholders of both Huntington Bancshares and Cadence Bank marks a pivotal advancement toward creating a larger, more capable banking entity. As the two institutions prepare to combine their strengths, they aim to bolster their offerings and deepen their commitment to serving the communities in which they operate, ultimately laying the groundwork for a new era in customer engagement and financial service delivery.