Business First Bancshares, Inc. has announced its financial results for the third quarter of 2026, showcasing a robust performance that highlights the company’s growth in the competitive state commercial banking sector.
On October 26, 2026, the parent company of b1BANK reported a net income available to common shareholders of $23.2 million, or $0.71 per diluted common share. This marks an increase of $0.4 million and $0.01 compared to the previous quarter. On a non-GAAP basis, the core net income available to common shareholders was $26.0 million, or $0.79 per diluted common share, reflecting a $2.7 million and $0.08 increase from the linked quarter.
“Our third quarter showed what disciplined execution can deliver,” said Jude Melville, chairman, president, and CEO of Business First. “We completed the conversion of Progressive Bank, and I’m grateful to our North Louisiana teammates and clients for helping make it a seamless transition. We grew loans and deposits at a balanced pace appropriate to our level of capital strength, and we did so while expanding our net interest margin by 12 basis points and keeping non-interest expenses in check. The result was higher earnings and stronger returns. Our team earned these results through disciplined execution, and we’ll keep that same focus as we continue to invest in the growing number of opportunities we’re seeing across our diversified footprint.”
In addition to the strong earnings report, Business First’s board of directors declared a common dividend of $0.15 per share and a preferred dividend of $18.75 per share, both to be paid on November 30, 2026, to shareholders of record as of November 15, 2026. This commitment to returning value to shareholders is a positive signal for investors.
The company also reported a net interest margin expansion of 13 basis points to 3.86% for the quarter, driven by improvements in loan yields and a reduction in funding costs. Loans grew by $121.4 million, or 7.23% annualized, while deposits increased by $141.2 million, or 7.74% annualized, primarily in the Houston, Texas, and Southwest Louisiana markets.
Business First Bancshares is classified under the SIC code 6022, which encompasses state commercial banks. This sector is known for its competitive nature, with firms constantly seeking to improve their financial performance and customer offerings.
The filing, which can be accessed under accession number 0001624322-26-000040, indicates that the company is not only focused on growth but also on maintaining a disciplined approach to financial management. This is likely to influence competitors in the state commercial banking industry, pushing them to enhance their strategies to remain competitive.
Looking ahead, Business First Bancshares continues to show promising growth potential. The company’s commitment to shareholder returns through dividends and stock repurchases, alongside its strong financial performance, positions it well in the evolving banking landscape.
Overall, the results from Business First Bancshares reflect a successful quarter that may set the tone for future performance in the state commercial banking sector.