Cambridge Financial Group, Inc. ("Cambridge Financial"), the mutual holding company of Cambridge Savings Bank, and First Seacoast Bancorp, Inc. ("First Seacoast Bancorp") (Nasdaq: "FSEA"), the holding company of First Seacoast Bank, jointly announced today they have entered into a definitive merger agreement under which First Seacoast Bancorp will merge with Cambridge Financial, with Cambridge Financial as the surviving corporation, and First Seacoast Bank will merge with Cambridge Savings Bank, with Cambridge Savings Bank as the surviving institution.
The all-cash transaction is valued at approximately $80.9 million based on the number of shares of First Seacoast Bancorp common stock outstanding as of the date of the merger agreement. Under the terms of the merger agreement, First Seacoast Bancorp's stockholders will receive $17.25 in cash for each of their shares of common stock.
This transaction reflects two leading community financial institutions' strategic decisions to strengthen local banking. Rooted in nearly 200 years of trust, Cambridge Savings Bank has a proven history of building lasting relationships through meaningful customer experiences, while continuing to invest in the technologies and solutions that support modern banking.
"This is an exciting period of growth for our organization," said Ryan A. Bailey, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cambridge Savings Bank. "At the heart of both institutions is a shared belief in the power of relationships – knowing our customers, supporting our communities, and showing up when it matters most. First Seacoast Bank has long been a trusted presence in the Seacoast region, and we're proud to build on that legacy – deepening our commitment to the people, businesses, and nonprofit organizations that call it home. Our goal remains the same: to treat every customer like our only customer, just as we have for nearly two centuries."
"Over the years we have witnessed exceptional growth in the greater Seacoast markets that we serve," said James R. Brannen, Chief Executive Officer of First Seacoast Bank. "We have been fortunate to play a role in that growth, and we truly believe that joining forces with Cambridge Savings Bank will allow us to preserve and better meet the expanding needs of the strong businesses and vibrant communities here in the Seacoast and beyond. This merger ensures community banking continuity for our customers while positioning Cambridge Savings Bank for future growth in an evolving and expanding economic landscape. Our mutual commitment to exceptional service and community engagement is an excellent basis that will allow us to move forward and remain true to the same values that have supported our success for the last 135 years."
Following the merger, Cambridge Savings Bank will operate all of First Seacoast Bank's banking offices as branch offices and as part of a branch network of 24 full-service offices.
The merger is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval and First Seacoast Bancorp stockholder approval. Closing is expected to occur in the third quarter of 2026.
Piper Sandler & Co. is serving as financial advisor to Cambridge. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, a Stifel Company, is acting as First Seacoast Bancorp's financial advisor and has rendered a fairness opinion to its Board of Directors. Luse Gorman, PC is serving as legal counsel to First Seacoast Bancorp.
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