First Financial Bancorp Expands Chicago Presence with BankFinancial Acquisition
- First Financial Bancorp acquires BankFinancial Corporation, expanding into Chicago with 18 new retail locations effective January 1, 2026.
- The acquisition increases First Financial's assets to $22 billion, enhancing its consumer, commercial, and wealth management services.
- First Financial aims to leverage Chicago's market for growth, maintaining client service continuity during the integration process.
First Financial Bancorp Expands Presence in Chicago Through Strategic Acquisition
First Financial Bancorp announces the completion of its acquisition of BankFinancial Corporation, a significant move that positions the company within the competitive Chicago banking landscape. This all-stock transaction, effective January 1, 2026, marks First Financial's entry into Chicago, bringing with it 18 new retail consumer-focused locations. The acquisition aligns with First Financial’s strategic growth plan in the Midwest and enhances its core deposit franchise, allowing the company to better serve its clients in the region. With this expansion, First Financial’s total assets increase to $22 billion, enabling the institution to offer a more comprehensive suite of consumer, commercial, specialty lending, and wealth management services.
Archie Brown, president and CEO of First Financial Bank, emphasizes the growth potential that the Chicago market represents. By integrating BankFinancial's existing infrastructure and client base, First Financial aims to leverage the thriving economic environment in Chicago to enhance profitability while creating new opportunities for both clients and communities. The acquisition not only strengthens First Financial's position in commercial lending but also allows the bank to diversify its deposit offerings, ultimately enhancing its competitive edge in a bustling urban market.
As part of the integration process, BankFinancial branches will continue operating under their existing name until the full conversion is expected to be completed in June 2026. During this transition, both banks will work diligently to align their products, processes, and operating systems while ensuring that client services remain uninterrupted. First Financial assures clients of BankFinancial that they will receive detailed account conversion information in the coming months, advising them to remain calm and take no immediate action, as service continuity is a key priority during this merger.
In addition to this recent acquisition, First Financial has made significant strides in expanding its commercial banking presence in Chicago. Following the establishment of a commercial lending office in the Fulton Market area in 2023 and the acquisition of Agile Premium Finance in Lincolnshire in 2024, this latest move signifies a robust commitment to growth in the Midwestern market. Furthermore, First Financial's acquisition of Westfield Bank in November 2025 reinforces its strategy to broaden its footprint and service offerings, positioning the company for sustained success in a dynamic banking environment.