grepcent / static financial knowledge base

FB Financial Corp (FBK) Risk Factors

Verbatim Item 1A Risk Factors from FB Financial Corp's latest 10-K. Filing date: 2026-02-26. Accession: 0001649749-26-000012.

This page reproduces the company's own Item 1A Risk Factors text from the linked SEC filing. It is filer text, not grepcent analysis, scoring, or investment advice.

Informational only - not investment advice. See Disclaimer.

Extracted from Item 1A Risk Factors to the first Item 1B/1C/2 boundary after HTML sanitization. Confidence: high. Source form: 10-K. Character span: 166055-239632.

Back to FBK company profile

ITEM 1A - Risk Factors

Our operations and financial results are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the material risks described below. Many of these risks are beyond our control although efforts are made to manage and mitigate those risks while simultaneously optimizing operational and financial results. The occurrence of any of the following risks, as well as risks of which we are currently unaware or currently deem immaterial, could materially and adversely affect our assets, business, cash flows, condition (financial or otherwise), liquidity, prospects, results of operations and the trading price of our common stock. It is impossible to predict or identify all such factors and, as a result, you should not consider the following factors to be a complete discussion of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could materially and adversely affect our assets, business, cash flows, condition (financial or otherwise), liquidity, prospects, results of operations and the trading price of our common stock.

In addition, certain statements in the following risk factors constitute forward-looking statements. Please refer to the section entitled “Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements” included in this Annual Report.

CREDIT AND LOAN RISK

The majority of our assets are loans, which if not repaid would result in losses to the Bank.

Making any loan involves various risks, including risks inherent in dealing with individual borrowers, risks of nonpayment, risks resulting from uncertainties as to the future value of collateral and cash flows available to service debt, and risks resulting from changes in economic and market conditions. Our credit risk approval and monitoring procedures may fail to identify or reduce these credit risks, and they cannot completely eliminate all credit risks related to our loan portfolio. If the overall economic climate, including employment rates, real estate markets, interest rates and general economic growth, in the United States, generally, or our markets, specifically, experiences material disruption, our borrowers may experience difficulties in repaying their loans, the collateral we hold may decrease in value or become illiquid, and the levels of nonperforming loans, charge-offs and delinquencies could rise and require additional provisions for loan losses, which would cause our net income and return on equity to decrease.

We maintain an allowance for credit losses, which is a reserve established through a provision for credit losses charged to expense, which represents the portion of the loan's amortized cost basis that we do not expect to collect due to credit losses over the loan's life, considering past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions considering macroeconomic forecasts. In addition, we record a reserve for unfunded commitments, considering the same items included in the allowance for credit losses with the addition of expected funding. Management’s determination of the appropriateness of the allowance and reserve for unfunded commitments is based on periodic evaluation of the loan portfolio, lending-related commitments and other relevant factors, including macroeconomic forecasts and historical loss rates. Deterioration in economic conditions affecting borrowers, new information regarding existing loans, identification of additional problem loans and other factors, both within and outside of our control, may

22

require an increase in the allowance for credit losses and/or the reserve for unfunded commitments. The model is sensitive to changes in macroeconomic forecasts and incorporates management judgment. If we are required to materially increase our level of allowance for credit losses for any reason, such increase could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The application of the purchase method of accounting in our acquisitions (and any future acquisitions) also will affect our allowance for credit losses. We are required to determine whether purchased loans held for investment have experienced more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since origination. Loans that have experienced this level of deterioration in credit quality are subject to special accounting at initial recognition. We initially measure the amortized cost of a purchase credit deteriorated loan by adding the acquisition date estimate of expected credit losses to the loan's purchase price (i.e. the “gross up” approach). If we have underestimated credit losses at recognition, we will incur additional expense in our provision for credit losses to maintain an appropriate level of allowance for credit losses on those loans.

In addition, bank regulators periodically review our allowance for credit losses and may require an increase in the provision for credit losses or the recognition of further loan charge-offs, based on judgments different than those of management. Furthermore, if charge-offs in future periods exceed the allowance for credit losses, we will need additional provisions to increase the allowance for credit losses. Any increases in the allowance for credit losses will result in a decrease in net income and capital and may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Because a significant portion of our loan portfolio is comprised of real estate loans, negative changes in the economy affecting real estate values and liquidity could impair the value of collateral securing our real estate loans and result in loan and other losses.

As of December 31, 2025, approximately 77% of our loan portfolio was comprised of loans with real estate as a primary or secondary component of collateral. This includes collateral consisting of income producing and residential construction properties, which properties tend to be more sensitive to general economic conditions and downturns in real estate markets. As a result, adverse developments affecting real estate values in our market areas could increase the credit risk associated with our real estate loan portfolio. Adverse changes affecting real estate values and the liquidity of real estate in one or more of our markets could increase the credit risk associated with our loan portfolio and could result in losses that would adversely affect credit quality and our financial condition or results of operations. These adverse changes could significantly impair the value of property pledged as collateral to secure the loans and affect our ability to sell the collateral upon foreclosure without a loss or additional losses. If real estate values decline, it is also more likely that we would be required to increase our allowance for credit losses. Thus, declines in the value of real estate collateral could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Weakness in residential real estate market prices, weakness in demand, or increases in building costs could result in a volatile environment including price reductions in home and land values adversely affecting the value of collateral securing some of the construction and development loans that we hold. Should we experience the return of adverse economic and real estate market conditions similar to those we experienced from 2008 through 2010 we may again experience increases in non-performing loans and other real estate owned, increased losses and expenses from the management and disposition of non-performing assets, increases in provision for credit losses, and increases in operating expenses as a result of the allocation of management time and resources to the collection and work out of loans, all of which would negatively impact our financial condition and results of operations.

We are subject to lending concentration risks.

Our exposure to commercial real estate (both owner-occupied and non-owner occupied), commercial and industrial, and construction loans expose us to greater credit risk than loans secured by other types of collateral because the collateral securing these loans is typically more difficult to liquidate. Additionally, these types of loans also often involve larger loan balances to a single borrower or groups of related borrowers. These higher credit risks are further heightened when the loans are concentrated in a small number of larger borrowers leading to relationship exposure. As of December 31, 2025, the following loan types accounted for the stated percentages of our loan portfolio: commercial real estate (both owner-occupied and non-owner occupied) - 40%; commercial and industrial - 18%; and construction - 10%.

23

Non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans may be affected to a greater extent than residential loans by adverse conditions in real estate markets or the economy because commercial real estate borrowers’ ability to repay their loans depends on successful development of their properties. These loans also involve greater risk because they generally are not fully amortizing over the loan period, and therefore have a balloon payment due at maturity. A borrower’s ability to make a balloon payment typically will depend on being able to either refinance the loan or sell the underlying property in a timely manner. In addition, banking regulators have been giving commercial real estate lending greater scrutiny, and may require banks with higher levels of commercial real estate loans to implement improved underwriting, internal controls, risk management policies and portfolio stress testing, as well as possibly higher levels of allowances for losses and capital levels as a result of commercial real estate lending growth and exposures.

Commercial and industrial loans and owner-occupied commercial real estate loans are typically based on the borrowers’ ability to repay the loans from the cash flow of their businesses. These loans may involve greater risk because the availability of funds to repay each loan depends substantially on the success of the business itself. In addition, the assets securing the loans depreciate over time, are difficult to appraise and liquidate, and fluctuate in value based on the success of the business.

Risk of loss on a construction loan depends largely upon whether our initial estimate of the property’s value at completion of construction or development equals or exceeds the cost of the property construction or development (including interest), the availability of permanent take-out financing and the builder’s ability to sell the property. During the construction or development phase, a number of factors can result in delays and cost overruns. If estimates of value are inaccurate or if actual construction costs exceed estimates, the value of the property securing the loan may be insufficient to ensure full repayment when completed through a permanent loan or by foreclosure on collateral.

Commercial real estate loans, commercial and industrial loans, and construction loans are more susceptible to a risk of loss during a downturn in the business cycle due to the vulnerability of these sectors during a downturn. Our underwriting, review and monitoring cannot eliminate all of the risks related to these loans. We also make both secured and unsecured loans to our commercial customers. Unsecured loans generally involve a higher degree of risk of loss than secured loans because, without collateral, repayment is wholly dependent upon the success of the borrowers’ businesses. Because of this lack of collateral, we are limited in our ability to collect on defaulted unsecured loans. Further, the collateral that secures our secured commercial and industrial loans typically includes inventory, accounts receivable and equipment, which usually have a value that is insufficient to satisfy the loan without a loss if the business does not succeed. Our loan concentration in these sectors and their higher credit risk could lead to increased losses on these loans, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Our ability to grow our loan portfolio may be hampered.

Our ability to grow our loan portfolio could be limited by, among other reasons, economic conditions, competition in our markets, our ability to hire and train experienced or successful bankers, our ability to generate the deposits needed to grow loan assets, or the drain on liquidity and available deposits that the banking industry has experienced and may continue to experience.

MARKET AND INTEREST RATE RISK

Difficult or volatile market conditions in the national financial markets, the U.S. economy generally, or our markets in particular may adversely affect our lending activity or other businesses, as well as our financial condition.

Our business and financial performance are vulnerable to weak economic conditions in the financial markets and economic conditions generally and specifically in our markets, the principal market in which we conduct business. A deterioration in economic conditions in our primary market areas could result in increased loan delinquencies, foreclosures, and write-downs of asset values, lower demand for our products and services, reduced low cost or noninterest-bearing deposits, and intangible asset impairment. Additionally, difficult market conditions may lead to a deterioration in the value of the collateral for loans made by us, especially real estate, which could reduce our customers' ability to repay outstanding loans and reduce the value of assets associated with our existing loans. Additional issues surrounding weakening economic conditions and volatile markets that could adversely impact us include increased industry regulation and downward pressures on our stock price.

24

We conduct our banking operations primarily in Tennessee. As of December 31, 2025, approximately 55% of our loans and approximately 62% of our deposits were made to borrowers or received from depositors who live and/or primarily conduct business in Tennessee. Therefore, our success will depend in large part upon the general economic conditions in this area. This geographic concentration imposes risks from lack of geographic diversification, as adverse economic developments in Tennessee (including the Nashville MSA, our largest market), among other things, could affect the volume of loan originations, increase the level of nonperforming assets, increase the rate of foreclosure losses on loans, reduce the value of our loans and loan servicing portfolio, reduce the value of the collateral securing our loans and reduce the amount of our deposits.

Any regional or local economic downturn that affects Tennessee or existing or prospective borrowers, depositors or property values in this area may affect us and our profitability more significantly and more adversely than our competitors whose operations are less geographically concentrated.

Changes in interest rates could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Our earnings and financial condition are dependent to a large degree upon net interest income, which is the difference, or spread, between interest earned on loans, securities and other interest-earning assets and interest paid on deposits, borrowings and other interest-bearing liabilities. When market rates of interest change, the interest we receive on our assets and the interest we pay on our liabilities may fluctuate. This may cause decreases in our spread and may adversely affect our earnings and financial condition. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors including, without limitation: the rate of inflation; economic conditions; federal monetary policies; and stability of domestic and foreign markets.

Although we have implemented strategies which are designed to reduce the potential effects of changes in interest rates on our net interest income, these strategies may not always be successful. Accordingly, changes in levels of market interest rates could materially and adversely affect our net interest income and our net interest margin, asset quality, loan and lease origination volume, liquidity or overall profitability. Additionally, changes in interest rates can adversely affect the origination of mortgage loans held for sale and resulting mortgage banking revenues.

The performance of our investment securities portfolio is subject to fluctuation due to changes in interest rates and market conditions, including credit deterioration of the issuers of individual securities.

Changes in interest rates may negatively affect both the returns on and fair value of our investment securities. Interest rate volatility can reduce unrealized gains or increase unrealized losses in our portfolio. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors including monetary policies, domestic and international economic and political issues, and other factors beyond our control. Additionally, actual investment income and cash flows from investment securities that carry prepayment risk, such as mortgage-backed securities and callable securities, may materially differ from those anticipated at the time of investment or subsequently as a result of changes in interest rates and market conditions. These occurrences could materially and adversely affect our net interest income or our results of operations.

We may be materially and adversely affected by the creditworthiness and liquidity of other financial institutions.

Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty, or other relationships. We have exposure to many different industries and counterparties, and routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry, including commercial banks, brokers and dealers, investment banks and other institutional customers. Many of these transactions expose us to credit risk in the event of a default by, or questions or concerns about the creditworthiness of a counterparty or client, or concerns about the financial services industry generally. In addition, our credit risk may be exacerbated when the collateral held by us cannot be realized upon or is liquidated at prices not sufficient to recover the full amount of the credit or derivative exposure due to us. Any such losses could have a material adverse effect on us.

Changes in U.S. trade policies, including the imposition of tariffs and retaliatory tariffs, may adversely impact our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

The current administration has imposed, and continues to consider, tariffs and other trade restrictions on imports from certain U.S. trading partners, including Canada, Mexico, and China. These actions have led, and may continue to lead, to negotiations, delays, modifications, or suspensions of certain tariffs, as well as the threat or implementation of retaliatory measures by affected countries. The scope, timing, and ultimate impact of these trade actions remain uncertain and subject to change based on ongoing political, economic, and diplomatic developments.

25

The above and other potential tariffs and trade restrictions may cause the prices of our customers' products to increase, which could reduce demand for such products, or reduce our customers' margins, and adversely impact their revenues, financial results, and ability to service debt. This in turn could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, to the extent changes in the political environment have a negative impact on us or on the markets in which we operate our business, our results of operations and financial condition could be materially and adversely impacted in the future. At this time, it remains unclear what the U.S. government or trading partners will or will not do with respect to additional tariffs that may be imposed or international trade agreements and policies.

Significant changes to the size, structure, powers and operations of the federal government may cause economic disruptions that could, in turn, adversely impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.

The current administration has begun to implement significant changes to the size and scope of the federal government to achieve stated goals including reducing the federal budget deficit and national debt, improving the efficiency of government operations, and promoting innovation and economic growth. To date, these efforts have been carried out through a mix of executive actions aimed at eliminating or modifying federal agency and federal program funding, reducing the size of the federal workforce, reducing or altering the scope of activities conducted by, and possibly eliminating, various federal agencies and bureaus, and encouraging the use of artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies within the public and private sectors. If implemented, these changes may have varied effects on the economy that are difficult to predict. For instance, the delivery of government services and the distribution of federal program funds and benefits may be disrupted or, in some cases, eliminated as a result of funding cuts or recasting of federal agency mandates. Further, a substantial reduction of the federal workforce could adversely affect regional and local economies, both directly and indirectly, in geographies with significant concentrations of federal employees and contractors. It is possible that the velocity of such comprehensive changes to the federal government may be materially adverse to the regional and local economies where we conduct business and to our customers, which, in turn, could be materially adverse to our business, financial condition and results of operations.

LIQUIDITY RISK

A lack of liquidity could adversely affect our operations and jeopardize our business, financial condition or results of operations.

We rely on our ability to generate deposits and effectively manage the repayment and maturity schedules of our loans and investment securities to ensure that we have adequate liquidity to fund our operations. In addition to our traditional funding sources, we also may borrow funds from third-party lenders or issue equity or debt securities to investors. Our access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance or capitalize our activities, or on terms that are acceptable to us, could be impaired by factors that affect us directly or the financial services industry or economy in general, such as disruptions in the financial markets or negative views and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry. Any decline in available funding could adversely impact our ability to originate loans, invest in securities, meet our expenses, pay dividends to our shareholders, or to fulfill obligations such as repaying our borrowings or meeting deposit withdrawal demands, any of which could have a material adverse impact on our liquidity, business, financial condition or results of operations.

Our liquidity position may be adversely affected by changes in depositor behavior, including increased sensitivity to interest rates, the concentration of larger or uninsured deposits, and the ability of customers to initiate and complete funds transfers rapidly using digital banking platforms and other electronic channels. Our deposit base includes customers whose balances may be more sensitive to market conditions or broader perceptions of banking‑sector stability and whose funds may be withdrawn with little or no advance notice. Negative publicity or stress affecting the banking industry generally, regardless of our financial condition, could result in deposit outflows, increased funding costs, or reduced access to traditional or wholesale funding sources. Although we maintain contingency funding plans and liquidity buffers designed to address potential stress scenarios, these plans are based on assumptions that may not prove accurate in all circumstances, and our liquidity resources may be insufficient in the event of rapid or sustained deposit withdrawals or prolonged market disruption.

26

Failure to address the federal debt ceiling in a timely manner, downgrade of the U.S. credit rating, and uncertain credit and financial market conditions may affect the stability of securities issued or guaranteed by the federal government, which may adversely affect the valuation or liquidity of our investment securities portfolio and increase future borrowing costs.

As a result of uncertain political, credit and financial market conditions, including the potential consequences of the federal government defaulting on its obligations for a period of time due to federal debt ceiling limitations or other unresolved political issues, investments in financial instruments issued or guaranteed by the federal government pose liquidity risks. Downgrades to the U.S. credit rating could affect the stability of securities issued or guaranteed by the federal government and the valuation or liquidity of our portfolio of such investment securities, and could result in our counterparties requiring additional collateral for our borrowings. Further, unless and until U.S. political, credit and financial market conditions have been sufficiently resolved or stabilized, it may increase our future borrowing costs.

MORTGAGE BANKING RISK

Our mortgage revenue is cyclical and is sensitive to the level of interest rates, changes in economic conditions, decreased economic activity, and slowdowns in the housing market.

The success of our mortgage segment is dependent upon our ability to originate loans and sell them to investors. Loan production levels are sensitive to changes in the level of interest rates and changes in economic conditions. As the mortgage industry experienced in 2023, mortgage production, especially refinancing activity, declines when interest rates rise. Our mortgage origination volume could be materially and adversely affected by rising interest rates.

Because we sell a substantial portion of the mortgage loans we originate, the profitability of our mortgage banking business also depends in large part on our ability to aggregate a high volume of loans and sell them in the secondary market at a gain. If interest rates rise, we expect increasing industry-wide competitive pressures related to changing market conditions to reduce pricing margins and mortgage revenues generally. If our level of mortgage production declines, our continued profitability will depend upon our ability to further reduce our costs. If we are unable to do so, our continued profitability may be materially and adversely affected.

In 2025, we sold nearly all of the $1.38 billion of mortgage loans held for sale that we closed. When mortgage loans are sold, whether as whole loans or pursuant to a securitization, we are required to make customary representations and warranties to purchasers, guarantors and insurers about the mortgage loans and the manner in which they were originated. We may be required to repurchase or substitute mortgage loans, or indemnify buyers against losses, in the event we breach certain representations or warranties in connection with the sale of such loans. If repurchase and indemnity demands increase, such demands are valid claims and are in excess of our provision for potential losses, our liquidity, results of operations or financial condition may be materially and adversely affected.

The value of our mortgage servicing rights asset is subjective by nature and may be vulnerable to inaccuracies or other events outside our control.

The value of our mortgage servicing rights asset can fluctuate. Particularly, the asset could decrease in value if prepayment speeds, delinquency rates, or the cost to service increases or overall values decrease causing a lack of liquidity of MSRs in the market. Similarly, the value may decrease if interest rates decrease or change in a non-parallel manner or are otherwise volatile, all of which are mostly out of the Bank’s control. We must use estimates, assumptions and judgments when valuing this asset. An inaccurate valuation, or changes to the valuation due to factors outside of our control, could inhibit our ability to realize the full value of this asset. As a result, our balance sheet may not precisely represent the fair market value of this and other financial assets.

Our business model is materially dependent on U.S. government‑sponsored entities and government agencies, and any changes in these entities, their current roles or the leadership at such entities or their regulators could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations.

Our ability to generate revenues through mortgage loan sales depends on programs administered by Government-Sponsored Enterprises, such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, government agencies, including Ginnie Mae, and others that facilitate the issuance of mortgage‑backed securities in the secondary market. Presently, a significant portion of the newly originated loans that we originate directly with borrowers qualify under existing standards for inclusion in MBS issued by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac or guaranteed by Ginnie Mae. A number of legislative proposals have been introduced in recent years that would wind down or phase out the GSEs. It is not possible to predict the scope and nature of the actions that the U.S. government will ultimately take with respect to the GSEs. Any changes in laws and regulations affecting the relationship between Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and their regulators or the U.S. federal government, and any changes in leadership at these entities, could adversely affect our business and prospects. Any discontinuation of, or significant reduction in, the operation of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac or any significant adverse change in their capital

27

structure, financial condition, activity levels in the primary or secondary mortgage markets or in underwriting criteria could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations.

Elimination of the traditional roles of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, or any changes to the nature or extent of the guarantees provided by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac or the fees, terms and guidelines that govern our selling and servicing relationships with them, could also materially and adversely affect our ability to sell and securitize loans through our loan production segment, and the performance, liquidity and market value of our investments. Moreover, any changes to the nature of the GSEs or their guarantee obligations could redefine what constitutes an Agency MBS and could have broad adverse implications for the market and our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations.

Decreased residential mortgage origination volume and pricing decisions of competitors may adversely affect our profitability.

Our mortgage operation originates, sells and services residential mortgage loans. Changes in interest rates, housing prices, applicable government regulations and pricing decisions by our loan competitors may adversely affect demand for our residential mortgage loan products, the revenue realized on the sale of loans, the revenues received from servicing such loans for others and, ultimately, reduce our net income. New regulations, increased regulatory reviews, and/or changes in the structure of the secondary mortgage markets which we utilize to sell mortgage loans may increase costs and make it more difficult to operate a residential mortgage origination business. Our revenue from the mortgage banking business was $52.4 million in 2025. This revenue could significantly decline in future periods if interest rates were to rise and the other risks highlighted in this paragraph were realized, which may adversely affect our profitability.

We may incur costs, liabilities, fines and other sanctions if we fail to satisfy our mortgage loan servicing obligations.

We act as servicer for approximately $9.59 billion of mortgage loans owned by third-parties as of December 31, 2025. As a servicer for those loans, we have certain contractual obligations to third-parties. If we commit a material breach of our obligations as servicer, we may be subject to termination if the breach is not cured within a specified period of time following notice, causing us to lose servicing income. For certain investors and/or transactions, we may be contractually obligated to repurchase a mortgage loan or reimburse the investor for credit losses incurred on the loan as a remedy for origination errors with respect to the loan. If we have increased repurchase obligations because of claims that we did not satisfy our obligations as a servicer, or if we have increased loss severity on such repurchases, we may have a significant reduction to net servicing income within our mortgage banking noninterest income. In addition, we may be subject to fines and other sanctions imposed by federal or state regulators as a result of actual or perceived deficiencies in our foreclosure practices. Any of these actions may harm our reputation or negatively affect our residential lending or servicing business and, as a result, our profitability.

LEGAL, REGULATORY AND COMPLIANCE RISK

We are subject to significant government regulation and supervision.

The Company and the Bank are subject to extensive federal and state regulation and supervision by the Federal Reserve, TDFI, the FDIC, and the CFPB, among others, the primary focus of which is to protect customers, depositors, the deposit insurance fund and the safety and soundness of the banking system as a whole, and not shareholders. The quantity and scope of applicable federal and state regulations may place banks at a competitive disadvantage compared to less regulated competitors such as financial technology companies, finance companies, credit unions, mortgage banking companies and leasing companies. These laws and regulations apply to almost every aspect of our business, and affect our lending practices and procedures, capital structure, investment activities, deposit gathering activities, our services and products, risk management practices, dividend policy and growth, including through acquisitions.

Legislation and regulation with respect to our industry has increased in recent years. In addition, the interpretation, application and supervisory implementation of existing laws and regulations continue to evolve, and regulatory priorities may shift over time. Changes to statutes, regulations or regulatory policies, including changes in interpretation or implementation of statutes, regulations or policies, or the issuance of new supervisory guidance, could affect us in substantial and unpredictable ways, and could subject us to additional costs, restrict our growth, limit the services and products we may offer or limit the pricing of banking services and products. While federal banking regulators have indicated an increased focus on tailoring supervision and prioritizing matters presenting material financial or legal risk, there can be no assurance that such efforts will reduce regulatory burden or supervisory scrutiny applicable to us. In addition, establishing systems and processes to achieve compliance with laws and regulation increases our costs and could limit our ability to pursue business opportunities.

If we receive less than satisfactory results on regulatory examinations, we could be subject to damage to our reputation, significant fines and penalties, requirements to increase compliance and risk management activities and related costs and restriction on acquisitions, new locations, new lines of business, or continued growth. Regulatory examination standards,

28

supervisory methodologies and enforcement priorities may change over time, including in ways that increase expectations for documentation, data governance, third‑party risk management, and internal controls. Future changes in federal and state banking could adversely affect our operating results and ability to continue to compete effectively. For example, the Dodd-Frank Act and related regulations, including the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, subject us to additional restrictions, oversight and reporting obligations, which have significantly increased costs. Certain Dodd‑Frank Act rulemakings and related regulations have been subject to reconsideration, delay, rescission, or legal challenge, creating additional regulatory uncertainty and compliance risk over the last several years, state and federal regulators have focused on enhanced risk management practices, mortgage law and regulation, compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act and anti-money laundering laws, data integrity and security, use of service providers, and fair lending and other consumer protection issues, which has increased our need to build additional processes and infrastructure. Government agencies charged with adopting and interpreting laws, rules and regulations, may do so in an unforeseen manner, including in ways that potentially expand the reach of the laws, rules or regulations more than initially contemplated or currently anticipated. We cannot predict the substance or impact of pending or future legislation or regulation, or the application thereof. Compliance with such current and potential regulation and scrutiny could significantly increase our costs, impede the efficiency of our internal business processes, require us to increase our regulatory capital and limit our ability to pursue business opportunities in an efficient manner. Our success depends on our ability to maintain compliance with both existing and new laws and regulations..

Applicable laws and regulations restrict both the ability of the Bank to pay dividends to us and our ability to pay dividends to our shareholders.

The Company and the Bank are subject to various regulatory restrictions relating to the payment of dividends. In addition, the Federal Reserve has the authority to prohibit bank holding companies from engaging in unsafe or unsound practices in conducting their business. These federal and state laws, regulations and policies are described in greater detail in “Business: Supervision and regulation: Regulation of the Company and the Bank: Restrictions on dividends” and generally consider previous results and net income, capital needs, asset quality, existence of enforcement or remediation proceedings, and overall financial condition in determining whether a dividend payment is appropriate. State banking regulators, including the Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions, also have discretion to impose requirements or limitations affecting capital, liquidity, and dividend capacity. For the foreseeable future, the majority, if not all, of our revenue will be from any dividends paid to us by the Bank. Accordingly, our ability to pay dividends also depends on the ability of the Bank to pay dividends to us. Further, the present and future dividend policy of the Bank is subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors. We cannot guarantee that we or the Bank will be permitted by financial condition or applicable regulatory restrictions to pay dividends, that the Board of Directors will elect to pay dividends to us, or the timing or amount of any dividend actually paid. See “Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities - Dividends.” If we do not pay dividends, market perceptions of our common stock may be adversely affected, which could in turn create downward pressure on our stock price.

As the parent company of the Bank, the Federal Reserve may require us to commit capital resources to support the Bank.

The Federal Reserve requires us to act as a source of strength to the Bank and to commit capital and financial resources to support the Bank. This support may be required at times when we might otherwise determine not to provide it. In addition, if we commit to a federal bank regulator that we will maintain the capital of the Bank, whether in response to the Federal Reserve’s invoking its source-of-strength authority or in response to other regulatory measures, that commitment will be assumed by a bankruptcy trustee and, as a result, the Bank will be entitled to priority payment in respect of that commitment, ahead of our other creditors. Thus, any borrowing that must be done by us in order to support the Bank may adversely impact our cash flow, financial condition, results of operations or prospects.

Our financial condition may be affected negatively by the costs of litigation.

We may be involved from time to time in a variety of litigation, investigations or similar matters arising out of our business. From time to time, and particularly during periods of economic stress, customers may make claims or otherwise take legal action pertaining to performance of our responsibilities. These claims are often referred to as “lender liability” claims. In addition, changes in federal and state consumer protection, fair lending, and anti‑discrimination laws, including state laws governing access to financial services, may increase the risk of litigation, regulatory investigations, or enforcement actions. Whether customer claims and legal action related to the performance of our responsibilities are founded or unfounded, if such claims and legal actions are not resolved in a favorable manner, they may result in significant financial liability and/or adversely affect our market perception, products and services, as well as potentially affecting customer demand for those products and services. In many cases, we may seek reimbursement from our insurance carriers to cover such costs and expenses. These claims, as well as supervisory and enforcement actions by our regulators could involve large monetary claims, capital directives, regulatory agreements and directives and significant defense costs. The outcome of any such cases or actions is uncertain. Substantial legal liability or significant regulatory action against us could have material adverse financial effects or cause significant reputational harm to us, which in turn could seriously

29

harm our business prospects. Our insurance may not cover all claims that may be asserted against us, and any claims asserted against us, regardless of merit or eventual outcome, may harm our reputation. Should the ultimate judgments or settlements in any litigation or investigation significantly exceed our insurance coverage, they could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

TECHNOLOGY AND OPERATIONAL RISKS

We rely on third-party vendors to provide services that are integral to the operation of our business.

We depend on a range of third-party service providers that are integral to the operation of our business. These vendors service our mortgage loan business, provide critical core systems' processing services, essential web hosting and other internet systems, and deposit processing services. If these service providers fail to perform servicing duties or perform those duties inadequately, we could experience a temporary interruption in our business, sustain credit losses on our loans and/or incur additional costs to obtain a replacement servicer. There can be no assurance that a replacement servicer could be retained in a timely manner or at a similar cost.

Being able to maintain these relationships on favorable terms is not guaranteed. In addition, some of our data processing services are provided by companies associated with our competitors. The loss of these vendor relationships could disrupt the services we provide to our customers and cause significant expenses to replace these services. Our operations could be significantly disrupted if third-party service providers experienced their own difficulties, or terminate their services. If an interruption were to continue for a significant period, our business' financial condition and operations could be adversely affected, perhaps materially. Assuming we were able to replace third-party service providers, it may be at a higher cost. For example, if we experienced issues with our mortgage servicing provider it could result in a range of critical issues including; servicing rights becoming terminated, repurchasing of mortgage loans, and/or reimbursements to investors.

Additionally, we utilize many vendors that provide services to support our operations, including the storage and processing of sensitive consumer and business customer data. A cyber security breach of a vendor's system may result in theft and/or unavailability of our data or disruption of business processes. We could be liable to our customers for losses arising from a breach of a vendor's data security system. We rely on outsourced service providers to implement and maintain prudent cyber security controls. We have procedures in place to assess a vendor's cyber security controls prior to establishing a contractual relationship and to periodically review assessments of those control systems. However, these procedures are not infallible, and a vendor's system can be breached despite the procedures we employ.

The rise of artificial intelligence and generative AI presents risks to our operations, controls, and compliance.

We make limited use of artificial intelligence technologies, including generative AI, and do not rely on them for core or mission‑critical banking activities such as credit decisions, pricing, transaction approvals, or other essential functions. Our current use of AI is confined to controlled, non‑critical administrative or productivity‑support purposes, such as research assistance, drafting, and data summarization. In addition, AI functionality may be embedded in certain third‑party software and services we use.

Even limited use of AI technologies exposes us to operational, regulatory, cybersecurity, third‑party, and reputational risks. AI‑enabled tools may produce inaccurate, incomplete, biased, or misleading outputs that can be difficult to validate or explain. If AI‑generated information is relied upon without appropriate human oversight, it could result in operational errors, weakened internal controls, customer harm, or regulatory or compliance issues, including fair lending or consumer protection concerns.

AI technologies may also increase cybersecurity, data privacy, intellectual property, and confidentiality risks. AI tools can enable more sophisticated fraud, phishing, impersonation, or other cyber threats, and the processing of sensitive or proprietary information through AI‑enabled systems—particularly those operated by third parties—may increase the risk of unauthorized disclosures, data breaches, or privacy violations.

We are also exposed to risks arising from third‑party vendors that incorporate AI or automated technologies into their products or services, even where we do not directly control such functionality. Vendor failures, misuse, bias, or regulatory noncompliance could disrupt our operations, expose us to supervisory scrutiny, or require us to modify or discontinue certain services, potentially at significant cost.

The legal and regulatory framework governing AI and automated technologies is rapidly evolving. Federal and state banking regulators are increasingly applying existing principles relating to governance, model risk management, fairness, and explainability to AI‑enabled systems, and new laws, regulations, or supervisory expectations could require additional controls, documentation, oversight, or training, increase compliance costs, or limit permissible uses of AI. Regulators have also cautioned against overstating AI capabilities or benefits.

If we are unable to effectively manage these risks or adapt to evolving regulatory and supervisory expectations, our business, financial condition, results of operations, or reputation could be adversely affected.

30

Our risk management framework may not be effective in mitigating risks and/or losses to us.

Our risk management framework is comprised of various processes, systems, and strategies, that are designed to manage the types of risk to which we are subject, including, among others, credit, price, liquidity, interest rate and compliance risks. Our framework also includes financial or other modeling methodologies that involve management assumptions and judgment. Our risk management framework may not be effective under all circumstances and may not adequately mitigate any risk or loss to us. If our framework is not effective, we could suffer unexpected losses and our business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects could be materially and adversely affected.

System failure or breaches of our network security, including cyber-attacks or data security breaches, could subject us to increased operating costs as well as litigation among other liabilities.

The computer systems and network infrastructure we, and our vendors, use may be vulnerable to physical theft, fire, power loss, telecommunications failure or a similar catastrophic event. Additionally, security breaches, denial of service attacks, viruses, ransomware, and other disruptive problems caused by cyber criminals. Any damage or failure that causes breakdowns or disruptions in our client relationship management, general ledger, deposit, loan and other systems could damage our reputation, result in a loss of client business, subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny, or expose us to civil litigation and possible financial liability, any of which could have a material adverse effect on us.

Compromised computers, phishing and other disruptions could also jeopardize the security of information stored in and transmitted through our network infrastructure. A cybersecurity breach of our information systems could lead to fraudulent activity such as identity theft, losses on the part of our banking customers, additional security costs, negative publicity and damage to our reputation and brand. In addition, our customers could be subject to scams that may result in the release of sufficient information concerning themselves or their accounts to allow unauthorized access to their accounts or our systems (e.g., “phishing” and “smishing”). Claims for compensatory or other damages may be brought against us because of a breach of our systems or fraudulent activity. If we are unsuccessful in defending against such resulting claims, we may be forced to pay damages, which could materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Information security risks have generally increased in recent years in part because of the proliferation of new technologies, use of the internet and telecommunications technologies to conduct financial transactions, increase in remote working, and the increased sophistication and activities of organized crime, hackers, nation state supported organizations, terrorists, and other external parties. The methods used to obtain unauthorized access, disable or degrade service or sabotage systems change frequently and often are not recognized until launched against a target. We may be unable to anticipate these techniques or to implement adequate preventative measures. Further, computer viruses or malware could infiltrate our systems and disrupt our delivery of services making our applications unavailable. Although we utilize several preventative and detective security controls in our network, they may be ineffective in preventing computer viruses or malware that could damage our relationships with our merchant customers, cause a decrease in transactions by individual cardholders, or cause us to be in non-compliance with applicable network rules and regulations. In addition, a significant incident of fraud or an increase in fraud levels generally involving our products could result in reputational damage to us, which could reduce the use of our products and services. Such incidents of fraud could also lead to regulatory intervention, which could increase our compliance costs. Compliance with the various complex laws and regulations is costly and time consuming, and failure to comply could have a material adverse effect on our business. Additionally, increased regulatory requirements on our services may increase our costs, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Accordingly, account data breaches and related fraudulent activity could have a material adverse effect on our future growth prospects, business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our operations rely on the secure processing, transmission and storage of confidential information in our computer systems and networks. Although we believe we have robust information security procedures and controls, our encryption software, systems, vendors, and our customers’ devices themselves may become the target of cyber-attacks or information security breaches. Such events could result in the unauthorized release, gathering, monitoring, misuse, unavailability, loss, or destruction of our or our customers’ confidential, proprietary and other information, or otherwise disrupt our or our customers’ business operations. As cyber threats continue to evolve, we may be required to expend significant additional resources to continue to modify or enhance our protective measures or to investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities.

We are under continuous threat of loss due to organized cyber-attacks involving unauthorized access, computer hackers, computer viruses, malicious code, and other security problems and system disruptions as we continue to expand client capabilities to utilize internet and other remote channels to transact business. We have invested and intend to continue to devote significant resources to the security of our computer systems, but they may still be vulnerable to these threats. A user who circumvents security measures can misappropriate confidential or proprietary information, including information regarding us, our personnel and/or our clients, or cause interruptions or malfunctions in operations. The occurrence of any

31

cyber-attack or information security breach could result in significant potential liabilities to customers and other third- parties, reputational damage, the disruption of our operations and regulatory concerns, all of which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. The harm to our business could be even greater if such an event occurs during a period of disproportionately heavy demand for our products or services or traffic on our systems or networks.

The financial services industry is undergoing rapid technological changes and we may not have the resources to implement new technology to stay current with these changes.

In addition to better serving customers, the effective use of technology increases efficiency and enables financial institutions to reduce costs. Our future success will depend, in part, upon our ability to address the technological needs of our customers that will satisfy client demands for convenience in addition to providing secure electronic environments. The financial services industry is experiencing rapid and significant technological change, including developments in digital banking platforms, payment systems, data analytics, artificial intelligence, automation, and distributed‑ledger or blockchain‑based technologies. As we continue to grow and expand our market area, part of our growth strategy is to focus on expanding market share and product offerings through partnerships with financial technology companies that will supplement our existing offerings, such as blockchain-based products and/or financial solutions supported by artificial intelligence. These technological advances are intended to allow us to acquire new customers and generate additional core deposits at a lower cost. However, the development, implementation, integration, and oversight of new technologies and third‑party solutions involve significant costs, operational complexity, and risk, including heightened regulatory expectations related to third‑party risk management, data governance, cybersecurity, model risk management, and consumer protection.

Many of our larger competitors have substantially greater resources to invest, and have invested significantly more than us, in technological improvements. As a result, they may be able to offer additional or more convenient products compared to those that we will be able to provide, which would put us at a competitive disadvantage. Accordingly, we may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services or be successful in marketing such products and services to our customers, which could impair our growth and profitability.

The nature of technology-driven disruption to our industry is changing, in some cases seeking to displace traditional financial service providers rather than merely enhancing traditional services or their delivery.

Technological innovation has expanded the overall market for banking services while siphoning a portion of the revenues from those services away from banks and disrupting prior methods of delivering those services. Certain recent innovations, however, may tend to replace traditional banks as financial service providers rather than merely augment those services. Similarly, innovations based on blockchain technology eventually may be the foundation for enhancing transactional security and facilitating payments throughout the banking industry, but also may over time reduce the need for banks as secure deposit-keepers and intermediaries. Other innovations, including alternative payment systems, digital wallets, and non‑bank financial platforms, may further reduce the role of banks as intermediaries in certain financial transactions.

To thrive as our industry continues to change, we may need to embrace technological evolution and innovations and redefine the customs of a traditional bank, while also maintaining our commitment to our community banking approach. As a result, this type of transition creates implementation risk. This transition involves significant execution and implementation risk, including risks related to customer adoption, system reliability, regulatory compliance, cybersecurity, data privacy, and operational resilience.

In this process, it is and will continue to be critical that we understand and appreciate our clients’ experiences interacting with us and our systems, including those clients who desire traditionally-delivered services provided through our community-banking model, those who seek and embrace the latest innovations, and those who want services to be convenient, personalized, and understandable. Our inability to effectively manage these risks or adapt to ongoing technological change could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects.

We are subject to certain operational risks, including, but not limited to, client or employee fraud.

Employee errors and employee and client misconduct could subject us to financial losses or regulatory sanctions and seriously harm our reputation. Misconduct by our employees could include hiding unauthorized activities from us, improper or unauthorized activities on behalf of our customers or improper use of confidential information. It is not always possible to prevent employee errors and misconduct, and the precautions we take to prevent and detect this activity may not be effective in all cases. Employee errors could also subject us to financial claims for negligence. Check fraud perpetrated by others who are not employees or clients could also result in financial losses. We maintain a system of internal controls and insurance coverage to mitigate against these operational risks. If our internal controls fail to prevent

32

or detect an occurrence, or if any resulting loss is not insured or exceeds applicable insurance limits, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.

We rely heavily upon information supplied by third-parties, including information contained in credit applications, property appraisals, title information, equipment pricing and valuation and employment and income documentation, in deciding which loans we originate, as well as the terms of those loans. If any such data is misrepresented, either fraudulently or inadvertently, and the misrepresentation is not detected prior to asset funding, the value of the asset may be significantly lower than expected, or we may fund a loan that we would not have funded or on terms we would not have extended.

The impact of widespread health emergencies, catastrophic events, natural disasters, or severe weather events adversely affect our business, financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations.

A significant portion of our business is in the Southeast and includes areas which are susceptible to weather-related events such as tornadoes, floods, droughts, and fires. Pandemics may impact global, national, and/or local economies, disrupt global supply chains, or create significant volatility and disruption in financial markets. A significant portion of our business is concentrated in geographic areas susceptible to these type of weather events. Such events can disrupt our operations and negatively affect our business and the economies in which we operate. These events may also have a negative impact on the financial condition of our clients, which may decrease revenues from those clients and increase the credit risk associated with loans and other credit exposures to those clients.

In addition, geopolitical matters such as international trade disputes, political unrest, cyber-attacks or campaigns, and slow growth in the global economy, as well as acts of terrorism, war, and other violence could result in disruptions in the financial markets or the markets that we serve. These negative events could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition and may affect our ability to access capital.

STRATEGIC AND OTHER BUSINESS RISKS

Our strategy of pursuing acquisitions exposes us to risk.

We intend to pursue a strategy that includes acquisition and consolidation opportunities within our core markets and beyond. The market for any such acquisition targets is highly competitive, which may adversely affect our ability to find acquisition candidates that fit our strategy and our standards. Acquisitions of financial institutions also involve operational risks and uncertainties, such as the time and expense associated with identifying and evaluating potential acquisition targets and negotiating terms or potential transactions, which could result in our attention being diverted from the operation of our existing business. Also, all acquisitions are subject to various regulatory approvals, and if we were unable to obtain such approvals for any reason, it would impair our ability to consummate acquisitions.

We have a shareholder who owns a significant portion of our stock and that shareholder’s interests in our business may be different than our other shareholders.

The Estate of James W. Ayers, the estate of the Company’s former Chairman, beneficially owns approximately 14% of our common stock. The shares held by the Estate are voted and controlled by the Estate’s co‑executors. As a result of this ownership position, the Estate may be able to influence the outcome of matters submitted to a vote of our shareholders, including the election of directors and the approval of significant corporate transactions, even if other shareholders believe such actions are not in their best interests.

The shareholder agreement entered into in connection with the Company’s initial public offering, which previously provided Mr. Ayers with certain director designation and committee rights, terminated in accordance with its terms upon Mr. Ayers’ death, and the Estate does not have any contractual rights to designate directors or committee members.

Notwithstanding the absence of such contractual rights, the concentration of ownership of our common stock may cause the interests of the Estate to differ from or conflict with the interests of our other shareholders. In addition, this concentration of ownership may adversely affect the trading price of our common stock to the extent investors perceive disadvantages in owning stock of a company with a significant shareholder.

We could be required to write down goodwill and other intangible assets.

At December 31, 2025, our goodwill and other identifiable intangible assets were $381.6 million. Under current accounting standards, if we determine goodwill or intangible assets are impaired because, for example, the acquired business does not meet projected revenue targets or credit losses are dramatically higher than anticipated, we are required to write down the carrying value of these assets. We conduct a review at least annually to determine whether goodwill is impaired. Our goodwill impairment evaluation indicated no impairment of goodwill for our reporting segments. We cannot provide assurance, however, that we will not be required to take an impairment charge in the future. Any impairment charge would have an adverse effect on our shareholders' equity and financial results and could cause a decline in our stock price.

33

GENERAL RISKS

We face strong competition from financial services companies and other companies that offer banking services.

We conduct our banking operations primarily in Tennessee, with our largest market being the Nashville MSA, which is a highly competitive banking market. Many of our competitors offer the same, or a wider variety of, banking services within our market areas, and we compete with them for the same customers. These competitors include banks with nationwide operations, regional banks and community banks. In many instances these national and regional banks have greater resources than we do, and the smaller community banks may have stronger ties in local markets than we do, which may put us at a competitive disadvantage. We also face competition from many other types of financial institutions, including thrift institutions, finance companies, brokerage firms, insurance companies, credit unions, mortgage banks and other internet-based companies offering financial services which enjoy fewer regulatory constraints and some may have lower cost structures. In addition, a number of out-of-state financial institutions have opened offices and solicit deposits in our market areas. Increased competition in our markets may result in reduced loans and deposits, as well as reduced net interest margin and profitability. If we are unable to attract and retain banking customers, we may be unable to continue to grow our loan and deposit portfolios, and our business, financial condition or results of operations may be adversely affected.

Further, a number of larger banks continue to enter the Nashville MSA, and we believe this trend will continue as banks look to gain a foothold in this growing market. This trend will likely result in greater competition in and may impair our ability to grow our share of our largest market.

Holders of our subordinated debentures have rights that are senior to those of our common shareholders.

We have supported a portion of our growth through the issuance of subordinated notes which are senior in rank to our shares of common stock. As a result, we must make payments on the subordinated notes before any dividends can be paid on our common stock and, in the event of our bankruptcy, dissolution or liquidation, the holders of the subordinated notes must be satisfied before any distributions can be made on our common stock.

New lines of business, products, product enhancements or services may subject us to additional risks.

From time to time, we may implement or acquire new lines of business or offer new products and product enhancements as well as new services within our existing lines of business. There are substantial risks and uncertainties associated with these efforts. In acquiring, developing or marketing new lines of business, products, product enhancements or services, we may invest significant time and resources, although there is no guarantee that these new lines of business, products, product enhancements or services will be successful or that we will realize their expected benefits. Further, initial timetables for the introduction and development of new lines of business, products, product enhancements or services may not be achieved, and price and profitability targets may not prove feasible. External factors, such as compliance with regulations, competitive alternatives and shifting market preferences, may also impact the ultimate implementation and success of new lines of business or offerings of new products, product enhancements or services. Furthermore, any new line of business, product, product enhancement or service could have a significant impact on the effectiveness of our system of internal controls. Failure to successfully manage these risks in the development and implementation of new lines of business or offerings of new products, product enhancements or services could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operation.

Consumers may decide not to use banks to complete their financial transactions.

Technology and other changes are allowing parties to complete, through alternative methods and delivery channels, financial transactions that historically have involved banks. For example, consumers can now maintain funds that would have historically been held as bank deposits in brokerage accounts, mutual funds with an Internet-only bank, or with virtually any bank in the country through online or mobile banking. Consumers can also complete transactions such as purchasing goods and services, paying bills and/or transferring funds directly without the assistance of banks by transacting through non-bank enterprises or through the use of emerging payment technologies such as cryptocurrencies. The process of eliminating banks as intermediaries could result in the loss of fee income, as well as the loss of customer deposits and the related income generated from those deposits. The loss of these revenue streams and the lower-cost deposits as a source of funds could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and liquidity.

We depend on the accuracy and completeness of information about customers.

In deciding whether to extend credit or enter certain transactions, we rely on information furnished by or on behalf of customers, including financial statements, credit reports, tax returns and other financial information. We may also rely on representations of those customers or other third-parties, such as independent auditors, as to the accuracy and completeness of that information. Reliance on inaccurate or misleading personal information, financial statements, credit reports, tax returns or other financial information, including information falsely provided because of identity theft, could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

34

Negative publicity could impact our reputation.

Reputational risk is inherent in our business. Negative public opinion could adversely affect our ability to keep and attract customers and could expose us to adverse legal and regulatory consequences. Negative public opinion could result from our actual, alleged, or perceived conduct related to employees or banking practices. Such negative public opinion could ultimately impact our earnings and stock price.

Negative developments affecting the banking industry may erode client confidence in the banking system.

Any future bank failures like those experienced in 2023 or similar events may negatively impact client confidence in the safety and soundness of community banks and may generate market volatility among publicly traded bank holding companies and, in particular, community and regional banks. As a result, some clients have chosen, and may continue to choose, to maintain deposits with larger financial institutions or invest in higher yielding short-term fixed income securities, all of which could materially adversely impact the Company's liquidity, loan funding capacity, net interest margin, capital, and results of operations. While the Treasury, the Federal Reserve, and the FDIC have historically taken action to ensure that depositors of failed banks had access to their deposits, including uninsured deposit accounts, there is no guarantee that bank failures or bank runs will not occur in the future and, if they were to occur, they may have a material adverse impact on client and investor confidence in community and regional banks, negatively impacting our liquidity, capital, results of operations, and stock price.