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On Tuesday, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods analysts reiterated an Outperform rating and maintained a $31.00 price target on ConnectOne Bankcorp stock (NASDAQ: CNOB). This follows ConnectOne’s announcement of the successful completion of its merger with FLIC, aligning with the company’s previously stated timeline for early June.
The merger, announced on Monday, is seen as a positive move for ConnectOne as it brings in FLIC’s strong deposit base and lower loan-to-deposit ratio. The acquisition is expected to enhance ConnectOne’s expansion into Long Island, benefiting from FLIC’s established market presence. With a market capitalization of $860 million and a proven track record of maintaining dividend payments for 52 consecutive years, ConnectOne demonstrates strong financial stability.
Analysts from Keefe, Bruyette & Woods view the acquisition as both financially and strategically sound. The merger was executed at a zero-premium price, with a valuation of 0.74 times tangible book value (TBV), which is anticipated to limit execution risk. The TBV earnback period is projected to be under three years, a timeframe that could shorten as interest rates stabilize.
Strategically, the merger is expected to create a stronger banking entity. FLIC’s contribution of a strong deposit base, with 33% of deposits being noninterest-bearing, and its top-quartile credit performance are seen as significant advantages. This merger is anticipated to bolster ConnectOne’s growth and market presence in Long Island.
In other recent news, ConnectOne Bancorp (NASDAQ:CNOB) has reported its first-quarter 2025 earnings, revealing an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.51, which exceeded the forecast of $0.44. However, the company fell short on revenue, reporting $70.21 million against a projected $70.98 million. ConnectOne Bancorp also announced that it has received final regulatory approval for its merger with The First of Long (NASDAQ:FLIC) Island Corporation, with completion expected around June 1, 2025. This merger is set to expand ConnectOne’s footprint and service offerings. Additionally, the company’s net interest margin expanded to 2.93%, and tangible book value per share increased by 4% to $24.16. Analysts from firms like KBW and Raymond (NSE:RYMD) James have been actively engaging with ConnectOne, focusing on credit quality and the potential impacts of tariff policies. The company is optimistic about closing the merger in late Q2, projecting post-merger assets of $15 billion. ConnectOne Bancorp’s management is confident about maintaining strong credit standards and navigating the regulatory landscape.
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