FIRST FINANCIAL CORP IN

Previous wording

An investment in the Corporation involves risk, some of which, including market, liquidity, credit, operational, legal, compliance, reputational, and strategic risks, could be substantial and is inherent in our business. This risk also includes the possibility that the value of the investment could decrease considerably, you could lose all or part of your investment, and dividends or other distributions concerning the investment could be reduced or eliminated. Discussed below are the most significant risks and uncertainties that management believes could adversely affect our financial results and condition, as well as the value of, and return on, an investment in the Corporation. Before making an investment decision, you should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below together with all of the other information included or incorporated by reference in this report.

Current wording

An investment in the Corporation involves risk, some of which, including market, liquidity, credit, operational, legal, compliance, regulatory, reputational, and strategic risks, could be substantial and is inherent in our business. This risk also includes the possibility that the value of the investment could decrease considerably, you could lose all or part of your investment, and dividends or other distributions concerning the investment could be reduced or eliminated. Discussed below are the most significant risks and uncertainties that management believes could adversely affect our financial results and condition, as well as the value of, and return on, an investment in the Corporation. Before making an investment decision, you should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below together with all of the other information included or incorporated by reference in this report.

Previous wording

as a whole. An economic downturn or sustained, high unemployment levels, inflation, supply chain disruptions that impact borrowers, recession, currency devaluation, changes in the monetary supply, changes in fiscal and monetary policy, decreased investor or business confidence, trade wars and the imposition of tariffs on goods purchased or sold by our customers, the effect of a pandemic, epidemic, or outbreak of an infectious disease on our customers, stock market volatility, and other factors beyond our control may have a negative effect on the ability of our borrowers to make timely repayments of their loans (thereby, increasing the risk of loan defaults and losses), the value of collateral securing those loans, demand for loans and other products and services we offer, and our deposit levels and composition.

Current wording

The Corporation’s financial performance generally, and in particular the ability of borrowers to pay interest on and repay principal of outstanding loans and the value of collateral securing those loans, as well as demand for loans and other products and services that the Corporation offers, is highly dependent upon the business environment in the markets where the Corporation operates and in the U.S. as a whole. An economic downturn or sustained, high unemployment levels, inflation, supply chain disruptions that impact borrowers, recession, currency devaluation, changes in the monetary supply, changes in fiscal and monetary policy, decreased investor or business confidence, trade wars and the imposition of tariffs on goods purchased or sold by our customers, the effect of a pandemic, epidemic, or outbreak of an infectious disease on our customers, stock market volatility, and other factors beyond our control may have a negative effect on the ability of our borrowers to make timely repayments of their loans (thereby, increasing the risk of loan defaults and losses), the value of collateral securing those loans, demand for loans and other products and services we offer, and our deposit levels and composition.

Previous wording

These events impacted the confidence of investors and customers in financial institutions as a whole. It led regulators, investors, and institutions to focus on the on-balance sheet liquidity, customer deposit base, including level of deposits uninsured by the FDIC, the amount of accumulated other comprehensive loss, capital levels, interest rate risk management, and securities holdings of financial institutions. If any additional financial institutions fail in a similar manner as those financial institutions that failed in 2022, our stock price and deposit base could be negatively impacted.

Current wording

amount of accumulated other comprehensive loss, capital levels, interest rate risk management, and securities holdings of financial institutions. If any additional financial institutions fail in a similar manner as those financial institutions that failed in 2022, our stock price and deposit base could be negatively impacted.

Previous wording

As a result of these failures, enhanced scrutiny from regulators and potential new legislation may impact our ability to operate. Depending upon any adopted change in legislation or directives from regulators, we may need to adjust our strategy and operations to comply with such changing laws or regulatory directives and it could materially impact our operating results.

Current wording

As a result of these failures, enhanced scrutiny from regulators and potential new legislation may impact our ability to operate. Depending upon any adopted change in legislation or directives from regulators, we may need to adjust our strategy and operations to comply with such changing laws or regulatory directives, which can result in additional operating expenses and could materially impact our operating results.

Previous wording

While the Federal Reserve has taken steps to combat the heightened levels of inflation that began in 2021, continued levels of inflation and monetary policy adopted by the Federal Reserve to combat such inflation, could have complex effects on our business and results of operations, some of which could be materially adverse. While we generally expect any inflation-related increases in our interest expense to be offset by increases in our interest revenue, inflation-driven increases in our levels of non-interest expense could negatively impact our results of operations. Additionally, if interest rates stay at their current level or continue to rise, we could see consumer sentiment shift and demand for loans may decrease which would impact our results of operations. The continued effects from elevated levels of inflation recently experienced could also increase volatility and uncertainty in the business environment, which

Current wording

While the Federal Reserve took steps to combat the heightened levels of inflation that began in 2021, primarily through increases to the target fed funds rate, continued levels of inflation and monetary policy adopted by the Federal Reserve to combat such inflation, could have complex effects on our business and results of operations, some of which could be materially adverse. During 2024, the Federal Reserve began cutting the target fed funds rate and decreased the target by 100 basis points. The Federal Reserve is still considering additional changes to the target fed funds rate, and the monetary policy adopted in 2025 by the Federal Reserve may impact the results of operations. While we generally expect any inflation-related increases in our interest expense to be offset by increases in our interest revenue, inflation-driven increases in our levels of non-interest expense could negatively impact our results of operations. Additionally, if interest rates stay at their current level or continue to rise, we could see consumer sentiment shift and demand for loans may decrease which would impact our results of operations. The continued effects from elevated levels of inflation recently experienced could also increase volatility and uncertainty in the business environment, which could adversely affect loan demand and our clients’ ability to repay indebtedness. It is also possible that governmental policy responses to the current inflation environment could further affect our business, such as changes to monetary and fiscal policy. The duration and severity of the current inflationary period, and the governmental responses thereto, are unknown and cannot be estimated with precision.

Previous wording

The Corporation’s earnings and cash flows are largely dependent upon the Corporation’s net interest income. Net interest income is the difference between interest income earned on interest earning assets, such as loans and securities, and interest expense paid on interest bearing liabilities, such as deposits and borrowed funds. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond the Corporation’s control, including general economic conditions, domestic and international events, changes in U.S. and other financial markets, and policies of various governmental and regulatory agencies. Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates, could influence not only the interest that is received on loans and securities and the interest that is paid on deposits and borrowings, but such changes could also affect the Corporation’s ability to originate loans and obtain deposits and the fair value of the Corporation’s financial assets and liabilities.

Current wording

The Corporation’s earnings and cash flows are largely dependent upon the Corporation’s net interest income. Net interest income is the difference between interest income earned on interest earning assets, such as loans and securities, and interest expense paid on interest bearing liabilities, such as deposits and borrowed funds. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond the Corporation’s control, including general economic conditions, domestic and international events, changes in U.S. and other financial markets, and policies of various governmental and regulatory agencies. In 2024, the Federal Reserve cut the target of the fed funds rate by 100 basis points. The Federal Reserve may take additional actions with respect to the target fed funds rate in 2025, which will have an impact on our net interest income. Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates, including the target fed funds rate, could influence not only the interest that is received on loans and securities and the interest that is paid on deposits and borrowings, but such changes could also affect the Corporation’s ability to originate loans and obtain deposits and the fair value of the Corporation’s financial assets and liabilities.

Previous wording

Conversely, if the interest rates paid on deposits and other interest-bearing liabilities increase at a faster rate than the interest rates received on loans and other interest-earning assets, our net interest income, and, therefore, our earnings, could be adversely affected. Such an interest rate environment may also result in us incurring a higher cost to retain our deposits. While the higher payment amounts we would receive on adjustable-rate or variable-rate loans in a rising interest rate environment may increase our interest income, some borrowers may be unable to afford the higher payment amounts, and this could result in a higher rate of default. Rising interest rates also may reduce the demand for loans and the value of fixed-rate investment securities. Accordingly, changes in interest rates could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

Conversely, if the interest rates paid on deposits and other interest-bearing liabilities increase at a faster rate than the interest rates received on loans and other interest-earning assets, our net interest income, and, therefore, our earnings, could be adversely affected. Such an interest rate environment may also result in us incurring a higher cost to retain our deposits. While the higher payment amounts we would receive on adjustable-rate or variable-rate loans in a rising interest rate environment may increase our interest income, some borrowers may be unable to afford the higher payment amounts, and this could result in a higher rate of default which could result in a decrease in the value of the collateral securing these loans if the demand for the collateral decreases. A higher rate of default may also increase our costs associated with servicing these loans, foreclosing on properties, property maintenance on

Previous wording

Our success depends, in large part, on our ability to attract and retain key personnel. Key personnel that have regular direct contact with customers and clients often build strong relationships that are important to our business. In addition, we rely on key personnel to manage and operate our business, including major revenue producing functions, such as loan and deposit generation. Competition for qualified personnel in the financial services industry can be intense and we may not be able to hire or retain the key personnel that we depend upon for success. In addition, we face additional risks of loss of key personnel from our acquisition of SimplyBank, as discussed in the Risk Factor titled “We may be unable to retain personnel successfully as a result of the acquisition.” Frequently, we compete in the market for talent with entities that are not subject to comprehensive regulation. The unexpected loss of services of one or more of our key personnel could have a material adverse impact on our business because of their skills, knowledge of the markets in which we operate, years of industry experience, and the difficulty of promptly finding qualified replacement personnel. Also, the loss of key personnel could jeopardize our relationships with customers and clients and could lead to the loss of accounts. Losses of accounts managed by key personnel could have a material adverse impact on our business.

Current wording

Our success depends, in large part, on our ability to attract and retain key personnel. Key personnel that have regular direct contact with customers and clients often build strong relationships that are important to our business. In addition, we rely on key personnel to manage and operate our business, including major revenue producing functions, such as loan and deposit generation. Competition for qualified personnel in the financial services industry can be intense and we may not be able to hire or retain the key personnel that we depend upon for success. Frequently, we compete in the market for talent with entities that are not subject to comprehensive regulation. The increased frequency of remote work opportunities has also increased the competition to attract and retain talent, as these opportunities have allowed companies from outside our geographic footprint to recruit talent inside our geographic footprint. The unexpected loss of services of one or more of our key personnel could have a material adverse impact on our business because of their skills, knowledge of the markets in which we operate, years of industry experience, and the difficulty and costs of promptly finding qualified replacement personnel. Also, the loss of key personnel could jeopardize our relationships with customers and clients and could lead to the loss of accounts. Losses of accounts managed by key personnel could have a material adverse impact on our business. Additionally, if we were to experience the unexpected loss of a large number of personnel, whether or not such personnel were considered key personnel, we could experience a material adverse impact on our business because of the loss of their skills and the costs and difficulty of finding a large number of qualified replacement personnel.

Previous wording

disasters, global climate change, pandemics, other catastrophic events, trade policies, domestic civil unrest, protest, and other global or domestic conflicts may impact our operations or the operations of some of our customers as well. Any of these occurrences could have an adverse impact on our operating results, revenues, and costs and may result in the volatility of the market price for our common stock and on the future price of our common stock.

Current wording

Terrorist attacks in the U.S. and abroad, as well as future events occurring in response to or in connection with them, including, without limitation, future terrorist attacks against U.S. targets, rumors or threats of war, actual conflicts involving the U.S. or its allies, including any escalation of or increased U.S. involvement in currently ongoing conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war or conflicts in the Middle East, military or trade disruptions, may impact our operations as well as the operations of some of our customers. In addition, natural disasters, global climate change, pandemics, other catastrophic events, trade policies, domestic civil unrest, protest, and other global or domestic conflicts may impact our operations or the operations of some of our customers as well. Any of these occurrences could have an adverse impact on our operating results, revenues, and costs and may result in the volatility of the market price for our common stock and on the future price of our common stock.

Previous wording

Unlike larger banking organizations that are more geographically diversified, the Corporation’s operations are currently concentrated in west central Indiana, east central Illinois, western Kentucky, and middle and western Tennessee, and most of our customers are located in these markets. Additionally, we will expand further into eastern Tennessee and northern Georgia provided we successfully consummate the Merger. The economic conditions in these local markets may be different from, and in some instances be worse than, the economic conditions in the U.S. as a whole. As a result of this geographic concentration, the Corporation’s financial results depend largely upon economic conditions in these market areas. Deterioration in economic conditions in the Corporation’s markets could result in one or more of the following, which may adversely affect our business:

Current wording

Unlike larger banking organizations that are more geographically diversified, the Corporation’s operations are currently concentrated in west central Indiana, east central Illinois, western Kentucky, eastern, middle and western Tennessee, northern Georgia, and most of our customers are located in these markets. The economic conditions in these local markets may be different from, and in some instances be worse than, the economic conditions in the U.S. as a whole. As a result of this geographic concentration, the Corporation’s financial results depend largely upon economic conditions in these market areas. Deterioration in economic conditions in the Corporation’s markets could result in one or more of the following, which may increase our costs, reduce our net income, or otherwise adversely affect our business:

Previous wording

The Corporation requires liquidity to meet our deposit and other obligations as they come due. The Corporation’s access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance its activities or on terms that are acceptable to it could be impaired by factors that affect it specifically or the financial services industry or the general economy. Factors that could reduce our access to liquidity sources include a downturn in the markets in which our loans are concentrated or adverse regulatory actions against the Corporation. The Corporation’s access to deposits may also be affected by the liquidity needs of depositors. The Corporation may not be able to replace maturing deposits and advances as necessary in the future, especially if a large number of depositors sought to withdraw their deposits, regardless of the reason. If the Corporation is unable to sufficiently maintain or grow its deposits to meet liquidity objectives, it may be subject to paying higher funding costs to achieve those liquidity objectives. A failure to maintain adequate liquidity could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, and result of operations.

Current wording

The Corporation requires liquidity to meet our deposit and other obligations as they come due. The Corporation’s access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance its activities or on terms that are acceptable to it could be impaired by factors that affect it specifically or the financial services industry or the general economy. Factors that could reduce our access to liquidity sources include a downturn in the markets in which our loans are concentrated, a decline in demand in the secondary market for long-term fixed mortgages, or adverse regulatory actions against the Corporation. The Corporation’s access to deposits may also be affected by the liquidity needs of depositors. The Corporation may not be able to replace maturing deposits and advances as necessary in the future, especially if a large number of depositors sought to withdraw their deposits, regardless of the reason. If the Corporation is unable to sufficiently maintain or grow its deposits to meet liquidity objectives, it may be subject to paying higher funding costs to achieve those liquidity objectives. A failure to maintain adequate liquidity could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, and result of operations.

Previous wording

reviews of economic conditions and how these economic conditions might impair the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans. There is the chance that we will fail to identify the proper factors or that we will fail to accurately estimate the impacts of factors that we identify. In addition, large loans, letters of credit, and contracts with individual counterparties in our portfolio magnify the credit risk that we face, as the impact of large borrowers and counterparties not repaying their loans or performing according to the terms of their contracts would have a disproportionately significant impact on our credit losses and reserves.

Current wording

As lending is one of our primary business activities, the credit quality of our portfolio can have a significant impact on our earnings. We estimate and establish reserves for credit risks and probable incurred credit losses that are inherent in our loan portfolio. This process, which is critical to our financial results and condition, requires difficult, subjective, and complex judgments, including reviews of economic conditions and how these economic conditions might impair the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans. There is the chance that we will fail to identify the proper factors or that we will fail to accurately estimate the impacts of factors that we identify. In addition, large loans, letters of credit, and contracts with individual counterparties in our portfolio magnify the credit risk that we face, as the impact of large borrowers and counterparties not repaying their loans or performing according to the terms of their contracts would have a disproportionately significant impact on our credit losses and reserves.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, approximately 57.5% of the Corporation’s loan portfolio consisted of commercial and commercial real estate loans. These loans are generally viewed as having more inherent risk of default than residential mortgage or consumer loans. The repayment of these loans often depends on the successful operation of a business and could be impacted by a recession or economic downturn. These loans are more likely to be adversely affected by weak conditions in the economy. Weak conditions in the local market, the regional economy, the general economy, or industry specific factors may also adversely affect the value of the underlying collateral securing the loan. Also, the commercial loan balance per borrower is typically larger than that of residential mortgage loans and consumer loans, indicating higher potential losses on an individual loan basis. The deterioration of one or a few of these loans could cause a significant increase in nonperforming loans and a reduction in interest income. An increase in nonperforming loans could result in an increase in the provision for loan losses and an increase in loan charge-offs, both of which could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, approximately 57.3% of the Corporation’s loan portfolio consisted of commercial and commercial real estate loans. These loans are generally viewed as having more inherent risk of default than residential mortgage or consumer loans. The repayment of these loans often depends on the successful operation of a business and could be impacted by a recession or economic downturn. These loans are more likely to be adversely affected by weak conditions in the economy. Weak conditions in the local market, the regional economy, the general economy, or industry specific factors may also adversely affect the value of the underlying collateral securing the loan. Also, the commercial loan balance per borrower is typically larger than that of residential mortgage loans and consumer loans, indicating higher potential losses on an individual loan basis. The deterioration of one or a few of these loans could cause a significant increase in nonperforming loans, an increase in the costs of servicing these nonperforming loans, and a reduction in interest income. An increase in nonperforming loans could also result an in increase in costs associated with workouts and foreclosures, including costs of foreclosing on collateral, and maintaining and liquidating the underlying collateral. An increase in nonperforming loans could also result in an increase in the provision for loan losses and an increase in loan charge-offs. An increase in nonperforming loans, workouts, foreclosures, and charge-offs to our commercial and commercial real estate loans could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

The Corporation faces substantial competition in all areas of its operations from a variety of different competitors, many of which are larger and may have more financial resources. Our competitors include banks, savings and loan associations, credit unions, finance companies, brokerage firms, insurance companies, factoring companies, financial technology companies, and other financial intermediaries. The financial services industry could become even more competitive as a result of legislative, regulatory, and technological changes and continued consolidation. Banks, securities firms, and insurance companies can merge under the umbrella of a financial holding company, which can offer virtually any type of financial service, including banking, securities underwriting, insurance (both agency and underwriting), and merchant banking. Also, technology has lowered barriers to entry and made it possible for non-banks to offer products and services traditionally provided by banks, such as automatic transfer and automatic payment systems. Many of the Corporation’s competitors have fewer regulatory constraints and may have lower cost structures. Additionally, due to their size, many competitors may be able to achieve economies of scale and, as a result, may offer a broader range of products and services as well as better pricing for those products and services than the Corporation can.

Current wording

The Corporation faces substantial competition in all areas of its operations from a variety of different competitors, many of which are larger and may have more financial resources. Our competitors include banks, savings and loan associations, credit unions, finance companies, brokerage firms, insurance companies, factoring companies, financial technology companies, and other financial intermediaries. The financial services industry could become even more competitive as a result of legislative, regulatory, and technological changes and continued consolidation. Banks, securities firms, and insurance companies can merge under the umbrella of a financial holding company, which can offer virtually any type of financial service, including banking, securities underwriting, insurance (both agency and underwriting), and merchant banking. Also, technology has lowered barriers to entry and made it possible for non-banks, including cryptocurrencies and other digital assets, to offer products and services traditionally provided by banks, such as automatic transfer and automatic payment systems. Many of the Corporation’s competitors have fewer regulatory constraints and may have lower cost structures. Additionally, due to their size, many competitors may be able to achieve economies of scale and, as a result, may offer a broader range of products and services as well as better pricing for those products and services than the Corporation can.

Previous wording

The processes the Corporation uses to estimate its allowance for credit losses and to measure the fair value of financial instruments, as well as the processes used to estimate the effects of changing interest rates and other market measures on the Corporation’s financial condition and results of operations, depend upon the use of analytical and forecasting models. These models reflect assumptions that may not be accurate, particularly in times of market stress or other unforeseen circumstances. Even if these assumptions are adequate, the models may prove to be inadequate or inaccurate because of other flaws in their design or their implementation. If the models the Corporation uses for interest rate risk and asset-liability management are inadequate, the Corporation may incur increased or unexpected losses upon changes in market interest rates or other market measures. If the models the Corporation uses for determining its probable credit losses are inadequate, the allowance for credit losses may not be sufficient to support future charge-offs. If the models the Corporation uses to measure the fair value of our financial instruments are inadequate, the fair value of our financial instruments may fluctuate unexpectedly or may not accurately reflect what the Corporation could realize upon sale or settlement of our financial instruments. Any failure in the Corporation’s analytical or forecasting models could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

The processes the Corporation uses to estimate its allowance for credit losses and to measure the fair value of financial instruments, as well as the processes used to estimate the effects of changing interest rates and other market measures on the Corporation’s financial condition and results of operations, depend upon the use of analytical and forecasting models. These models reflect assumptions that may not be accurate, particularly in times of market stress or other unforeseen circumstances. Even if these assumptions are adequate, the models may prove to be inadequate or inaccurate because of other flaws in their design or their implementation. For example, if the models the Corporation uses for interest rate risk and asset-liability management are inadequate, the Corporation may incur increased or unexpected losses upon changes in market interest rates or other market measures. If the models the Corporation uses for determining its probable credit losses are inadequate, the allowance for credit losses may not be sufficient to support future charge-offs. Additionally, if the models the Corporation uses to measure the fair value of our financial instruments are inadequate, the fair value of our financial instruments may fluctuate unexpectedly or may not accurately reflect what the Corporation could realize upon sale or settlement of our financial instruments. Any failure in the Corporation’s analytical or forecasting models could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

The Corporation’s banking subsidiaries are community banks and their reputation is one of the most valuable components of our business. A key component of our business strategy is to rely on our reputation for customer service and knowledge of local markets to expand our presence by capturing new business opportunities from existing and prospective customers in our current market and contiguous areas. As such, we strive to conduct our business in a manner that enhances our reputation. This is done, in part, by recruiting, hiring, and retaining employees who share our core values of being an integral part of the communities we serve, delivering superior service to our customers, and caring about our customers and associates. If our reputation is negatively affected by the actions of our employees, by our inability to conduct our operations in a manner that is appealing to current or prospective customers, or otherwise, our business and, therefore, our operating results, may be materially adversely affected.

Current wording

The Corporation’s banking subsidiaries are community banks and their reputation is one of the most valuable components of our business. A key component of our business strategy is to rely on our reputation for customer service and knowledge of local markets to expand our presence by capturing new business opportunities from existing and prospective customers in our current market and contiguous areas. As such, we strive to conduct our business in a manner that enhances our reputation. This is done, in part, by recruiting, hiring, and retaining employees who share our core values of being an integral part of the communities we serve, delivering superior service to our customers, and caring about our customers and associates. If our reputation is negatively affected by the actions of our employees, by our inability to conduct our operations in a manner that is appealing to current or prospective customers, by any government or regulatory action, or otherwise, our business and, therefore, our operating results, may be materially adversely affected.

Previous wording

Information technology systems are critical to our business. We use various technology systems to manage our customer relationships, general ledger, securities, deposits, and loans. Additionally, as part of our business, we collect, process, and retain personal, proprietary, and confidential information regarding our customers. The financial services industry has experienced an increase in both the number and severity of reported cyber-attacks aimed at gaining unauthorized access to bank systems as a way to misappropriate assets and sensitive information, corrupt and destroy data, or cause operational or business services disruptions. Any security breach

Current wording

Information technology systems are critical to our business. We use various technology systems to manage our customer relationships, general ledger, securities, deposits, and loans. Additionally, as part of our business, we collect, process, and retain personal, proprietary, and confidential information regarding our customers. The financial services industry has experienced an increase in both the number and severity of reported cyber-attacks aimed at gaining unauthorized access to bank systems as a way to misappropriate assets and sensitive information, corrupt and destroy data, or cause operational or business services disruptions. Any security breach, including security breaches that occur as a result of employee error or misconduct, could result in the misappropriation, loss, or unauthorized disclosure of sensitive customer information, severely damage our reputation, expose us to the risk of litigation and liability, disrupt our operations, and have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

We also rely on the integrity and security of a variety of third-party processors and payment, clearing, and settlement systems, as well as the various participants involved in these systems, many of which have no direct relationship with us. Failure by these participants or their systems to protect our customers’ transaction data may put us at risk for possible losses due to fraud or operational disruption. In addition, a number of our third-party service providers are large national entities with dominant market presence in their respective fields. Their services could prove difficult to replace in a timely manner if a failure or other service interruption were to occur. Failures of certain vendors to provide contracted services could adversely affect our ability to deliver products and services to our customers and cause us to incur significant expense.

Current wording

We also rely on the integrity and security of a variety of third-party processors and payment, clearing, and settlement systems, as well as the various participants involved in these systems, many of which have no direct relationship with us. Failure by these participants, including their employees either as a result of employee error or misconduct, or their systems to protect our customers’ transaction data may put us at risk for possible losses due to fraud or operational disruption. In addition, a number of our third-party service providers are large national entities with dominant market presence in their respective fields. Their services could prove difficult to replace in a timely manner if a failure or other service interruption were to occur. Failures of certain vendors to provide contracted services could adversely affect our ability to deliver products and services to our customers and cause us to incur significant expense.

Previous wording

The occurrence of a cybersecurity incident involving us, third party service providers, or our customers, regardless of its origin, could damage our reputation and result in a loss of customers and business and subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny, and could expose us to litigation and possible financial liability. Furthermore, we may be required to expend significant additional resources to modify our protective measures or to investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures arising from operational and security risks. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

The occurrence of a cybersecurity incident involving us, third-party service providers, or our customers, regardless of its origin, could damage our reputation and result in a loss of customers and business and subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny, and could expose us to litigation and possible financial liability. Furthermore, as technology, including the increasing use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, large language models, and other similar technologies, and cyberattacks change over time, we may be required to expend significant additional resources to modify our protective measures or to investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures arising from operational and security risks. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

The Corporation relies on external vendors to provide products and services necessary to maintain day-to-day operations of the Corporation. Accordingly, the Corporation’s operations are exposed to risk that these vendors will not perform in accordance with the contracted arrangements under service level agreements. The failure of an external vendor to perform in accordance with the contracted arrangements under service level agreements, because of changes in the vendor’s organizational structure, financial condition, support for existing products and services, strategic focus, or for any other reason, could be disruptive to the Corporation’s operations, which could have a material adverse impact on the Corporation’s business and, in turn, the Corporation’s financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

The Corporation relies on external vendors to provide products and services necessary to maintain day-to-day operations of the Corporation. Accordingly, the Corporation’s operations are exposed to risk that these vendors or their employees, agents, or other representatives will not perform in accordance with the contracted arrangements under service level agreements. The failure of an external vendor to perform in accordance with the contracted arrangements under service level agreements, because of changes in the vendor’s organizational structure, financial condition, support for existing products and services, strategic focus, or for any other reason, could be disruptive to the Corporation’s operations, which could have a material adverse impact on the Corporation’s business and, in turn, the Corporation’s financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

technology to provide products and services that will satisfy customer demands, as well as to create additional efficiencies in the Corporation’s operations. The Corporation may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services, be successful in marketing these products and services to its customers, or incur significant costs in implementing new technology-driven products and services. Further, many of our competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements. Failure to successfully keep pace with technological change affecting the financial services industry could negatively affect the Corporation’s growth, revenue, and profit.

Current wording

technology to provide products and services that will satisfy customer demands, as well as to create additional efficiencies in the Corporation’s operations. The Corporation may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services, be successful in marketing these products and services to its customers, or incur significant costs in implementing new technology-driven products and services. Further, many of our competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements and may do so in a more cost effective manner. Failure to successfully keep pace with technological change affecting the financial services industry could negatively affect the Corporation’s growth, revenue, and profit.

Previous wording

The Corporation forecloses on collateral property from time to time to protect its interests and thereafter owns and operates foreclosed property, in which case it is exposed to the risks inherent in the ownership of real estate. The amount that the Corporation, as a mortgagee, may realize after a default is dependent upon factors outside of its control, including, but not limited to: (i) general or local economic conditions; (ii) neighborhood values; (iii) interest rates; (iv) real estate tax rates; (v) operating expenses of the mortgaged properties; (vi) environmental remediation liabilities; (vii) ability to obtain and maintain adequate occupancy of the properties; (viii) zoning laws; (ix) governmental rules, regulations, and fiscal policies; and (x) natural disasters. Certain expenditures associated with the ownership of real estate, principally real estate taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs, may adversely affect the income from the real estate. Therefore, the cost of operating real property may exceed the income earned from the real property, and the Corporation may have to advance funds in order to protect its interests, or it may be required to dispose of the real property at a loss. These expenditures and costs could adversely affect the Corporation’s ability to generate revenues, resulting in reduced levels of profitability.

Current wording

The Corporation forecloses on collateral property from time to time to protect its interests and thereafter owns and operates foreclosed property, in which case it is exposed to the risks inherent in the ownership of real estate. The amount that the Corporation, as a mortgagee, may realize after a default is dependent upon factors outside of its control, including, but not limited to: (i) general or local economic conditions; (ii) neighborhood values; (iii) interest rates; (iv) real estate tax rates; (v) operating expenses of the mortgaged properties; (vi) environmental remediation liabilities; (vii) ability to obtain and maintain adequate occupancy of the properties; (viii) zoning laws; (ix) governmental rules, regulations, and fiscal policies; and (x) natural disasters. Certain expenditures associated with

Previous wording

A significant portion of the Corporation’s loan portfolio is secured by real property. During the ordinary course of business, the Corporation may foreclose on and take title to properties securing loans which have defaulted. In doing so, there is a risk that hazardous or toxic substances could be found on these properties. If hazardous or toxic substances are found, the Corporation may be liable for remediation costs, as well as for personal injury and property damage. Environmental laws may require the Corporation to incur substantial expenses and may materially reduce the affected property’s value or limit the Corporation’s ability to use or sell the affected property. In addition, future laws or more stringent interpretations or enforcement policies with respect to existing laws may increase the Corporation’s exposure to environmental liability. Environmental reviews of real property before initiating foreclosure actions may not be sufficient to detect all potential environmental hazards. The remediation costs and any other financial liabilities

Current wording

A significant portion of the Corporation’s loan portfolio is secured by real property. During the ordinary course of business, the Corporation may foreclose on and take title to properties securing loans which have defaulted. In doing so, there is a risk that hazardous or toxic substances could be found on these properties. If hazardous or toxic substances are found, the Corporation may be liable for remediation costs, as well as for personal injury and property damage. Environmental laws may require the Corporation to incur substantial expenses and may materially reduce the affected property’s value or limit the Corporation’s ability to use or sell the affected property. In addition, future laws or more stringent interpretations or enforcement policies with respect to existing laws may increase the Corporation’s exposure to environmental liability. Environmental reviews of real property before initiating foreclosure actions may not be sufficient to detect all potential environmental hazards. The remediation costs and any other financial liabilities associated with an environmental hazard could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

Technology and other changes now allow many customers to complete financial transactions without using banks. For example, consumers can pay bills and transfer funds directly without going through a bank. This process of eliminating banks as intermediaries could result in the loss of fee income, as well as the loss of customer deposits and income generated from those deposits. In addition, changes in consumer spending and savings habits could adversely affect the Corporation’s operations, and the Corporation may be unable to timely develop competitive new products and services in response to these changes.

Current wording

Technology and other changes now allow many customers to complete financial transactions without using banks. For example, consumers can pay bills and transfer funds directly without going through a bank. This process of eliminating banks as intermediaries could result in the loss of fee income, as well as the loss of customer deposits and the use of customer deposits as a source of liquidity for income generating activities. New technologies can also impact consumer use of banks, including the increased prevalence of digital assets or cryptocurrencies, which can present risks that consumers move money out of bank deposits and into these digital assets or cryptocurrencies, decreasing our deposits and source of liquidity. In addition, changes in consumer spending and savings habits could adversely affect the Corporation’s operations, and the Corporation may be unable to timely develop competitive new products and services in response to these changes.

Previous wording

The Corporation generally seeks merger or acquisition partners that are culturally similar and have experienced management and possess either significant market presence or have potential for improved profitability through financial management, economies of scale, or expanded services. Acquiring other banks, businesses, or branches involves various risks commonly associated with acquisitions, including, among other things:

Current wording

The Corporation generally seeks merger or acquisition partners that are culturally similar and have experienced management and possess either significant market presence or have potential for improved profitability through financial management, economies of scale, or expanded services or geographic reach. Acquiring other banks, businesses, or branches involves various risks commonly associated with acquisitions, including, among other things:

Previous wording

The Corporation is required by federal and state regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support its operations. To the extent the Corporation’s future operating results erode capital or the Corporation elects to expand through loan growth or acquisition it may be required to raise capital. The Corporation’s ability to raise capital will depend on conditions in the capital markets, which are outside of its control, and on the Corporation’s financial performance. Accordingly, the Corporation may not be able to raise capital when needed or on favorable terms. If the Corporation cannot raise additional capital when needed, it will be subject to increased regulatory supervision and the imposition of restrictions on its growth and business. These restrictions could negatively impact the Corporation’s ability to operate or further expand its operations through acquisitions or the establishment of additional branches and may result in increases in operating expenses and reductions in revenues that could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

The Corporation is required by federal and state regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support its operations. To the extent the Corporation’s future operating results erode capital or the Corporation elects to expand through loan growth or acquisition it may be required to raise capital. The Corporation’s ability to raise capital will depend on conditions in the capital markets, which are outside of its control, and on the Corporation’s financial performance. Accordingly, the Corporation may not be able to raise capital when needed or on favorable terms. If the Corporation cannot raise additional capital when needed, it will be

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, the Corporation had $92.6 million of goodwill and other intangible assets. A significant decline in the Corporation’s expected future cash flows, a significant adverse change in the business climate, slower growth rates, or a significant and sustained decline in the price of the Corporation’s common stock may necessitate taking charges in the future related to the impairment of the Corporation’s goodwill and other intangible assets. If the Corporation were to conclude that a future write-down of goodwill and other intangible assets is necessary, the Corporation would record the appropriate charge, which could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, the Corporation had $121.6 million of goodwill and other intangible assets. A significant decline in the Corporation’s expected future cash flows, a significant adverse change in the business climate, slower growth rates, or a significant and sustained decline in the price of the Corporation’s common stock may necessitate taking charges in the future related to the impairment of the Corporation’s goodwill and other intangible assets. If the Corporation were to conclude that a future write-down of goodwill and other intangible assets is necessary, the Corporation would record the appropriate charge, which could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

The Bank Secrecy Act, the USA Patriot Act, and other laws and regulations require financial institutions, among other duties, to institute and maintain an effective anti-money laundering program and file suspicious activity and currency transaction reports as appropriate. The Federal Financial Crimes Enforcement Network is authorized to impose significant civil money penalties for violations of those requirements and has engaged in coordinated enforcement efforts with the other federal agencies, including federal banking regulators. We are also subject to increased scrutiny of compliance with the rules enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control. If our policies, procedures, and systems are deemed deficient, we could be subject to liability, including fines and regulatory actions, which may include restrictions on our ability to pay dividends and the necessity to obtain regulatory approvals to proceed with certain aspects of our business plan, including any acquisitions we desire to make. We could also incur increased costs and expenses to improve our anti-money laundering procedures and systems to comply with any regulatory requirements or actions. Failure to maintain and implement adequate programs to combat money laundering and terrorist

Current wording

The Bank Secrecy Act, the USA Patriot Act, and other laws and regulations require financial institutions, among other duties, to institute and maintain an effective anti-money laundering program and file suspicious activity and currency transaction reports as appropriate. The Federal Financial Crimes Enforcement Network is authorized to impose significant civil money penalties for violations of those requirements and has engaged in coordinated enforcement efforts with the other federal agencies, including federal banking regulators. We are also subject to increased scrutiny of compliance with the rules enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control. If our policies, procedures, and systems are deemed deficient, we could be subject to liability, including fines and regulatory actions, which may include restrictions on our ability to pay dividends and the necessity to obtain regulatory approvals to proceed with certain aspects of our business plan, including any acquisitions we desire to make. We

Previous wording

financing could also have serious reputational consequences for us. Any of these results could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and future prospects.

Current wording

could also incur increased costs and expenses to improve our anti-money laundering procedures and systems to comply with any regulatory requirements or actions. Failure to maintain and implement adequate programs to combat money laundering and terrorist financing could also have serious reputational consequences for us. Any of these results could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and future prospects.

Previous wording

stock or other securities, including debt securities and senior or subordinated notes. We are currently authorized to issue up to 40 million shares of common stock, of which 11,795,024 shares were outstanding as of December 31, 2023, and up to 10 million shares of preferred stock, of which no shares are outstanding. Subject to certain limitations, our board of directors generally has authority, without action or vote of our shareholders, to issue all or part of the remaining authorized but unissued shares and to establish the rights, preferences, and privileges of any class or series of preferred stock. These equity and/or debt issuances could dilute the ownership interest of our shareholders and may dilute the per share book value of our common stock. New investors also may have rights, preferences, and privileges senior to our shareholders which may adversely impact our shareholders.

Current wording

The Corporation’s Board of Directors may determine from time to time there is a need to or, if our or the Bank’s regulatory capital ratios fall below the required minimums, we could be forced to raise additional capital through the issuance of additional shares of stock or other securities, including debt securities and senior or subordinated notes. We are currently authorized to issue up to 40 million shares of common stock, of which 11,842,539 shares were outstanding as of December 31, 2024, and up to 10 million shares of preferred stock, of which no shares are outstanding. Subject to certain limitations, our board of directors generally has authority, without action or vote of our shareholders, to issue all or part of the remaining authorized but unissued shares and to establish the rights, preferences, and privileges of any class or series of preferred stock. These equity and/or debt issuances could dilute the ownership interest of our shareholders and may dilute the per share book value of our common stock. New investors also may have rights, preferences, and privileges senior to our shareholders which may adversely impact our shareholders.