Jacksonville, Florida and Bradenton, Florida – November 18, 2025 – Community First Credit Union of
Florida (“Community First”) and FSBH Corp. (“FSBH”) today announced a definitive agreement under
which Community First will acquire substantially all of the assets and assume substantially all of the
liabilities of First Southern Bank, headquartered in Waycross, Georgia. FSBH Corp. (OTCPK: FSBH)
is the holding company for First Southern Bank.
Jacksonville, Florida and Bradenton, Florida, November 18, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ --
The transaction has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both institutions.
Following the completion of the transaction, FSBH will liquidate and dissolve and distribute its
remaining assets to its stockholders. When the acquisition is completed, Community First will have
approximately $3.3 billion in assets, $2.5 billion in loans, $2.9 billion in member shares and deposits
and will have 31 branches throughout Georgia and Florida. In connection with the transaction, the
shareholders of FSBH will receive approximately $17.14 in cash for each share of FSBH common
stock.
The acquisition broadens Community First’s commercial and small business offerings, extends its
footprint into Southeast Georgia and throughout Florida, and enhances diversification and talent
particularly in commercial banking. As members of Community First, First Southern Bank customers
will enjoy full access to the complete range of products and services offered by Community First for
both consumers and businesses.
Sam Inman, President and CEO of Community First, said "While we love the growth opportunities that
come with the transaction, this acquisition is founded on a unified vision between Community First and
First Southern Bank. Both institutions emphasize a community-oriented and relationship-based
approach, maintaining a culture that respects individuals and prioritizes service excellence.”
Inman continued, “This acquisition is more than just expansion; it amplifies our shared mission to
strengthen our communities and provide unparalleled service through building relationships, growing
communities, and doing the right things for the right reasons.”
Daniel S. Hager, Chairman and CEO of FSBH and First Southern Bank stated, “We are excited about
the opportunity to unite these two like-minded organizations. First Southern Bank customers will
continue to see their trusted familiar banker at each location. The newly combined institution will have
the ability to offer highly personalized financial services, which will enable us the financial capabilities
to support further expansion.” Mr. Hager emphasized that by joining forces with Community First
Credit Union, “We clearly see the benefits for our customers, and look forward to joining the
Community First team.
The transaction is anticipated to be completed in the second or third quarter of 2026, subject to
receiving all required regulatory approvals, approval by the shareholders of FSBH, and other
customary closing conditions.
Community First was advised in the transaction by Olden Lane Inc. as exclusive financial advisor and
Honigman, LLC as legal counsel. FSBH Corp. was advised by Janney Montgomery Scott LLC as
exclusive financial advisor and Alston & Bird, LLP as legal counsel.
About Community First Credit Union
Celebrating 90 years of service in 2025, Community First Credit Union of Florida is a state-chartered
credit union based in Jacksonville serving anyone who lives or works on the First Coast. Community
First is one of the largest credit unions in Florida with $2.9 billion in assets and serving 187,000
members. Community First has 24 locations and more than 450 employees. A not-for-profit,
Community First is a full-service financial institution offering banking, loans, mortgages and
investments for consumers and businesses. For more, visit www.communityfirstfl.org. For media
inquiries, please contact Maria Coppola at 904-312-3321.
About First Southern Bank
First Southern Bank has been a leading financial services provider for consumers and small
businesses since 1907 and offers a full range of banking and lending products. Headquartered in
Waycross, Georgia, the bank has seven branch locations. Hours vary per location and can be found
on the website: www.fsb-bank.bank. Branch locations offer checking, savings, commercial, consumer
and residential loans, ATM’s, online banking, cash management services, 24/7 telephone banking and
a mobile app for banking on the go. First Southern Bank is a member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender
and Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information, please call 941-554-7080.
Forward Looking Statements
This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities
Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including expected benefits and timing of the proposed acquisition
between Community First Credit Union and First Southern Bank and plans of the combined
organization. These statements are based on current expectations and involve risks and uncertainties
that could cause actual results to differ materially, including the receipt and timing of regulatory,
integration outcomes, realization of synergies, and potential disruption to relationships with customers,
employees, and suppliers. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release.
Neither Community First Credit Union nor First Southern Bank undertakes any obligation to update
them except as required by law.
Media Contact
Kelly H. Ellis, First Southern Bank, 1 (941) 554-7080, kellis@fsb-bank.bank
SOURCE First Southern Bank
11/17/25, 3:09 PM
