Business First Bancshares, Inc. reported significant financial growth in its latest quarterly filing, with total assets reaching $8.9 billion as of June 30, 2026, an increase of $688.8 million, or 8.4%, from $8.2 billion at the end of 2025. The company’s total loans held for investment rose to $6.7 billion, marking a $470 million, or 7.6%, increase, while total deposits grew by $537 million, or 8.0%, to $7.2 billion. The net income available to common shareholders for the first six months of 2026 was $45 million, a 12.7% increase from $39.9 million in the same period last year, largely driven by the acquisition of Progressive Bancorp.
The company’s net interest income for the first half of 2026 was $153 million, reflecting a 15% increase from $133 million in the prior year. This growth was attributed to the acquisition of Progressive, which contributed significantly to the increase in both loans and deposits. The net interest margin remained stable at 3.69%, while the allowance for credit losses increased to 1.02% of total loans, up from 0.94% at the end of 2025. The ratio of nonperforming loans to total loans held for investment was 1.26%, slightly higher than 1.24% at the end of the previous year.
Strategically, Business First Bancshares completed the merger with Progressive Bancorp on January 1, 2026, which added approximately $773.8 million in total assets and $684.9 million in deposits to its balance sheet. Additionally, the company announced a partnership with Covecta to implement AI technology aimed at enhancing operational efficiency. On June 29, 2026, the company also acquired American Planning Corporation for $6.8 million, further expanding its advisory services.
Operationally, the company reported a total employee headcount increase, reflecting its expansion efforts. The number of noninterest-bearing deposits rose to $1.6 billion, a 19.8% increase from the previous year, indicating strong customer engagement and retention. The company’s focus on enhancing its product offerings and geographic reach, particularly in Louisiana and Texas, has contributed to its growing market share in the regional banking sector.
Looking ahead, Business First Bancshares expressed optimism about its growth trajectory, supported by its recent acquisitions and strategic partnerships. The company aims to continue leveraging its expanded asset base and customer relationships to drive profitability and shareholder value. However, it remains vigilant regarding potential economic fluctuations and their impact on credit quality and loan performance.
About Business First Bancshares, Inc.
Business First Bancshares, Inc. is a financial holding company and parent of b1BANK, a community-focused bank serving small-to-midsized businesses and high net worth individuals in Louisiana and Texas. It offers commercial and consumer banking products, including loans, deposits, treasury management, and wealth services. The company emphasizes relationship-driven banking with local decision-making, sophisticated business lending expertise, and a disciplined growth strategy centered on underserved markets.
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