FIRST FINANCIAL CORP /IN/

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. 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.

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 2025, the Federal Reserve cut the target of the fed funds rate by 75 basis points. The Federal Reserve may take additional actions with respect to the target fed funds rate in 2026, 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. While we believe we have implemented procedures to prepare us for the potential effects of a changing interest rate environment, these procedures may not always be successful as the procedures include underlying assumptions which may ultimately be inaccurate based on factors outside of our control.

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 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

Current wording

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 foreclosed properties, and the liquidation of any foreclosed properties. 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.

Previous 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.

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/or 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 2025, the Federal Reserve continued cutting the target fed funds rate and decreased the target by 75 basis points. The Federal Reserve is still considering additional changes to the target fed funds rate, and the monetary policy adopted in 2026 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

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

Current 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. The industry wide impact of these failures demonstrated the impact that reputational harm to certain financial institutions can have on the industry as a whole, which can lead to risks of reputational harm to the Corporation based on issues or failures of unrelated banks or financial institutions.

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, which can result in additional operating expenses and could materially impact our operating results.

Current wording

As a result of these issues and 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

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.

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 those occurring with respect to Russia, Ukraine, Venezuela, Iran, the Middle East and China, 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

Failure to perform in any of these areas could significantly weaken the Corporation's competitive position, which could adversely affect the Corporation's growth and profitability, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation's financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Failure to perform in any of these areas could significantly weaken the Corporation's competitive position, which could increase our funding costs, impact our liquidity, and adversely affect the Corporation's growth and profitability, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation's financial condition and results of operations.

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, 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.

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 and competition for deposits as discussed in the Risk Factor titled “The Corporation operates in a highly competitive industry and market and our business will suffer if we are unable to compete effectively.”. 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

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.

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. Deterioration of the Corporation’s credit quality may have a material adverse effect on our loan portfolio, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous 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.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2025, approximately 58.6% 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

In deciding whether to extend credit or enter into other transactions with clients and counterparties, we may rely on information furnished by or on behalf of clients and counterparties, including financial statements and other financial information. We also may rely on representations of clients and counterparties as to the accuracy and completeness of that information and, with respect to financial statements, on reports of independent auditors. Default risk may arise from events or circumstances that are difficult to detect, such as fraud. Moreover, such circumstances, including fraud, may become more likely to occur or be detected in periods of general economic uncertainty. We may also fail to receive full information with respect to the risks of a counterparty. In addition, in cases where we have extended credit against collateral, we may find that we are under-secured, for example, as a result of sudden declines in market values that reduce the value of collateral or due to fraud with respect to such collateral. If these events or circumstances were to occur, it could result in a potential loss of revenue and have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Current wording

In deciding whether to extend credit or enter into other transactions with clients and counterparties, we may rely on information furnished by or on behalf of clients and counterparties, including financial statements and other financial information. We also may rely on representations of clients and counterparties as to the accuracy and completeness of that information and, with respect to financial statements, on reports of independent auditors. Default risk may arise from events or circumstances that are difficult to detect, such as fraud. Moreover, such circumstances, including fraud, may become more likely to occur or be detected in periods of general economic uncertainty. We may also fail to receive full information with respect to the risks of a counterparty. In addition, in cases where we have extended credit against collateral, we may find that we are under-secured, for example, as a result of sudden declines in market values that reduce the value of collateral or due to fraud with respect to such collateral. If these events or circumstances were to occur, it could result in a potential loss of revenue, increased costs in foreclosing on collateral or resolving troubled loans and have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

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. 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.

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. The Corporation uses a current “expected loss” model (“CECL”) to estimate its allowance for credit losses. If the CECL model is inadequate, or its underlying assumptions 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, by any government or regulatory action, 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

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, 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.

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, artificial intelligence agents, generative artificial intelligence, and other similar technologies (collectively referred to as “AI”), 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 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.

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. Additionally, the Corporation may be exposed to certain risks involved with the use of AI tools of vendors and their employees or agents, as further discussed in the Risk Factor titled “The increased prevalence, use and development of AI may subject the Corporation to increased regulatory risk, reputational risk and may have material adverse effects on the Corporation’s business, financial condition and results of operations.” 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, use of AI tools, 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 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.

Current wording

The financial services industry is continually undergoing rapid technological change with frequent introductions of new technology-driven products and services, including cryptocurrency and stablecoin related products and services, products and services implementing AI and AI tools and other new financial technologies. The effective use of technology can increase efficiency, provide cutting-edge products and/or services, and enable financial institutions to better serve customers and to reduce costs. The Corporation’s future success depends, in part, upon its ability to address customer needs by using 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, profit, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

The growth of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other large language models and similar technologies (collectively referred to as “AI”), has spurned a new industry of technological advances. The Corporation implemented a form of AI with its intelligent digital assistant, Gabby, available through the Bank’s website. Use of AI can expose us to new or increased operation risks, including risks related to our internal controls. As the use of AI expands and grows, it may become subject to additional regulations or restrictions on use from the U.S. government and/or our banking regulators. Additionally, ineffective implementation or failures by any implemented AI could have an adverse effect on our reputation, cause the Corporation to incur additional costs to make the implementation successful, or otherwise result in a loss of expenses incurred if the Corporation decides to terminate the pursuit of a failed AI implementation. Further, many of our competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements and may do so in a more cost effective manner. The realization of these risks could result in the Corporation failing to realize any anticipated benefits from the implementation of AI and could negatively affect the Corporation’s growth, reputation, revenue, expenses, and results of operations.

Current wording

The Corporation implemented a form of AI with its intelligent digital assistant, Gabby, available through the Bank’s website. Use of AI can expose us to new or increased operation risks, including risks related to our internal controls. As the use of AI expands and grows, it may become subject to additional regulations or restrictions on use from the U.S. government and/or our banking regulators. Additionally, ineffective implementation or failures by any implemented AI could have an adverse effect on our reputation, cause the Corporation to incur additional costs to make the implementation successful, or otherwise result in a loss of expenses incurred if the Corporation decides to terminate the pursuit of a failed AI implementation. Further, many of our competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements and may do so in a more cost effective manner. The realization of these risks could result in the Corporation failing to realize any anticipated benefits from the implementation of AI and could negatively affect the Corporation’s growth, reputation, revenue, expenses, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

The Corporation’s internal operations are subject to risks, including, but not limited to, data processing system failures and errors, customer or employee fraud, and catastrophic failures resulting from terrorist acts or natural disasters. We regularly review and update our internal controls, disclosure controls and procedures, and corporate governance policies and procedures. Any system of controls and any system to reduce risk exposure, however well designed and operated, is based in part on assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurances that the objectives of the system are met. Additionally, instruments, systems, and strategies used to hedge or otherwise manage exposure to various types of market compliance, credit, liquidity, operational, and business risks and enterprise-wide risk could be less effective than anticipated. As a result, the Corporation may not be able to effectively mitigate its risk exposures in particular market environments or against particular types of risk.

Current wording

The Corporation’s internal operations are subject to risks, including, but not limited to, data processing system failures and errors, improper or inappropriate use of AI tools, customer or employee fraud, and catastrophic failures resulting from terrorist acts or natural disasters. We regularly review and update our internal controls, disclosure controls and procedures, and corporate governance policies and procedures. Any system of controls and any system to reduce risk exposure, however well designed and operated, is based in part on assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurances that the objectives of the system are met. Additionally, instruments, systems, and strategies used to hedge or otherwise manage exposure to various types of market compliance, credit, liquidity, operational, and business risks and enterprise-wide risk could be less effective than anticipated. As a result, the Corporation may not be able to effectively mitigate its risk exposures in particular market environments or against particular types of risk, which could adversely affect the Corporation’s financial condition and results of operations.

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

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

Previous wording

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

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.

Previous wording

Financial institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty, or other relationships. The Corporation has exposure to many different industries and counterparties, and routinely executes transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry, including commercial banks, brokers and dealers, investment banks, and other institutional clients. Many of these transactions expose the Corporation to credit risk in the event of a default by a counterparty or client. In addition, the Corporation’s credit risk may be exacerbated when the collateral held by the Corporation cannot be realized upon or is liquidated at prices not sufficient to recover the full amount of the credit or derivative exposure due to the Corporation. These losses could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

Financial institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty, or other relationships. The Corporation has exposure to many different industries and counterparties, and routinely executes transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry, including commercial banks, brokers and dealers, investment banks, and other institutional clients. Many of these transactions expose the Corporation to credit risk in the event of a default by a counterparty or client. In addition, the Corporation’s credit risk may be exacerbated when the collateral held by the Corporation cannot be realized upon or is liquidated at prices not

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 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.

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. For more information on the competitive pressures faced by the Corporation, including those pressures as a result of cryptocurrencies and digital assets, see the Risk Factor titled “The Corporation operates in a highly competitive industry and market and our business will suffer if we are unable to compete effectively.” 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 or geographic reach. 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, including our previously announced merger with CedarStone Financial, Inc. and it wholly owned subsidiary, CedarStone Bank, 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

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 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.

Previous 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.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2025, the Corporation had $114.5 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 Corporation and the Bank operate in a highly regulated environment and we are subject to extensive regulation, supervision, and examination by the Federal Reserve, the OCC, and the FDIC and DFI, respectively. Banking regulations are primarily intended to protect depositors’ funds, federal deposit insurance funds, and the banking system as a whole, not our shareholders. Further, as a bank holding company, we are required to act as a source of financial and managerial strength to the Bank and to commit resources to support our subsidiary banks if needed. This regulatory framework affects our lending practices, capital structure, investment practices, and growth, among other things.

Current wording

The Corporation and the Bank operate in a highly regulated environment and we are subject to extensive regulation, supervision, and examination by the Federal Reserve, the OCC, the FDIC and DFI. Banking regulations are primarily intended to protect depositors’ funds, federal deposit insurance funds, and the banking system as a whole, not our shareholders. Further, as a bank holding company, we are required to act as a source of financial and managerial strength to the Bank and to commit resources to support our subsidiary banks if needed. This regulatory framework affects our lending practices, capital structure, investment practices, and growth, among other things.

Previous wording

Since the 2007-2008 financial crisis, federal and state banking laws and regulations, as well as interpretations and implementations of these laws and regulations, have undergone substantial review and change. In particular, the Dodd-Frank Act drastically revised the laws and regulations under which we operate. Financial institutions generally have also been subjected to increased scrutiny from regulatory authorities which has been further exacerbated by the depository institution failures that occurred in 2023. These changes and increased scrutiny may result in increased costs of doing business, decreased revenues and net income, may reduce our ability to effectively compete to attract and retain customers, or make it less attractive for us to continue providing certain products and services. Any future changes in federal and state law and regulations, as well as the interpretations and implementations of federal and state laws and regulations, could affect us in substantial and unpredictable ways, including those listed above, impact the regulatory structure under which we operate, significantly increase our costs, impede the efficiency of our internal business processes, require us to increase our regulatory capital and modify our business strategy, limit our ability to pursue business opportunities in an efficient manner, or other ways that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. These changes also may require us to invest significant management attention and resources to make any necessary changes to operations to comply and could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

Since the 2007-2008 financial crisis, federal and state banking laws and regulations, as well as interpretations and implementations of these laws and regulations, have undergone substantial review and change. In particular, the Dodd-Frank Act drastically revised the laws and regulations under which we operate. Financial institutions generally have also been subjected to increased scrutiny from regulatory authorities which has been further exacerbated by the depository institution failures that occurred in 2023. These changes and increased scrutiny may result in increased costs of doing business, decreased revenues and net income, may reduce our ability to effectively compete to attract and retain customers, or make it less attractive for us to continue providing certain products and services. Any future changes in federal and state law and regulations, as well as the interpretations and implementations of federal and state

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

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 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

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.

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 11,880,759 shares were outstanding as of December 31, 2025, 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.