#United States #Cash Dividend #Lexington #First Community Bank #Q3 2026

Overview

First Community Corporation (Nasdaq: FCCO), the holding entity for First Community Bank, recently released its financial performance for the third quarter of 2026, showcasing significant growth across key metrics. This article delves into the highlights of the report, reflecting a robust operational framework and the company’s sustainability in the financial market.

Financial Highlights

Earnings Growth

In the third quarter of 2026, First Community Corporation recorded a net income of $8.044 million, marking an impressive 54.9% increase year-over-year and 5.9% rise compared to the previous quarter. Adjusted net income, excluding after-tax merger expenses, rose to $8.123 million, up 44.3% year-over-year. This expense exclusion demonstrates the company's effective management and underlying operational strength.

For the first nine months ending September 30, 2026, net income totaled $21.137 million, representing a 47.0% increase from the same period last year, with adjusted net income reaching $22.857 million, up 52.5%.

Earnings Per Share

Diluted earnings per share (EPS) reached $0.85 for the third quarter, an increase of 26.9% year-over-year and 6.3% from the last quarter. When adjusted for merger-related expenses, the diluted EPS stands at $0.86, reflecting a 19.4% increase from the previous year. For the nine-month period, diluted EPS was $2.24, showcasing a 21.1% year-over-year growth.

Loan Growth and Financial Ratios

Total loans grew to $1.610 billion, with an increase of $32.1 million during the quarter, reflecting an annualized growth rate of 8.1%. This successful growth trajectory saw $299.4 million in year-to-date loan growth, including $195.7 million from the acquisition of Signature Bank of Georgia.

Moreover, the net interest margin expanded to 3.59%, an increase of eight basis points over the previous quarter, marking ten consecutive quarters of margin growth. The bank’s shareholder equity to total assets stood at 9.74%, improving from 8.14% in December 2025.

Cash Dividend Announcement

In conjunction with these encouraging results, First Community Corporation also announced a cash dividend of $0.17 per common share. This marks the 99th consecutive quarter that the company has paid dividends to its shareholders. The dividend is scheduled for payment on November 17, 2026, to shareholders on record as of November 3, 2026.

Strategic Focus and Future Outlook

First Community Corporation’s CEO, Mike Crapps, expressed satisfaction with the company’s financial performance, indicating a promise to maintain strong returns for shareholders. The strategic focus remains on sustainable growth and robust financial health, ensuring the bank can maneuver effectively in the competitive financial landscape.

Conclusion

In summary, First Community Corporation’s third-quarter results reflect outstanding financial growth and stability. With rising earnings, strategic loan growth, and consistent shareholder returns through dividends, the corporation is well-positioned for future advancements. Investors and stakeholders can take confidence in the company's trajectory as it continues to build on its successes.

For more about First Community Corporation, visit First Community Bankers.