Hancock Whitney Corporation, the parentcompany of Hancock Whitney Bank, recently announced that it had signed a definitive agreement to acquire OFB Bancshares, Inc. its parentcompany of One Florida Bank (OF). It is a cash transaction which continues the ongoing expansion efforts into Central Florida banking markets for Hancock Whitney which will add four more locations to Hancock Whitney.
As part of the bank’s long term growth strategy the acquisition will increase Hancock Whitney’s presence in the Orlando market area, which is the second fastest growing banking market in the United States. It will also..
“This transaction represents a significant step in our long-term growth strategy, expanding our footprint into one of the most dynamic and high-growth markets in the country,” said John M. Hairston, President and CEO of Hancock Whitney. “Orlando offers attractive demographics, strong economic fundamentals, and meaningful opportunities to deepen client relationships. By combining our scale, capital strength, and product capabilities with the local expertise of this talented team, we believe we are well-positioned to deliver enhanced value to our clients, associates, and shareholders alike.”
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One Florida Bank currently operates five financial centers across the greater Orlando area and one additional location in the Florida Panhandle. As of March 31, 2026, OFB Bancshares reported consolidated assets of approximately $2.1 billion, along with $1.7 billion in loans and $1.9 billion in deposits.
The acquisition is expected to provide Hancock Whitney with a stronger market presence in Orlando while expanding access to commercial and retail banking opportunities throughout the region.
Rick Pullum, President and CEO of One Florida Bank, commented, “We are proud of the franchise we’ve built in the Orlando market, grounded in strong client relationships and community engagement. Partnering with Hancock Whitney allows us to accelerate that momentum while gaining access to broader resources, expanded capabilities, and a larger platform for growth.”
This is expected to complete in Q3 of 2026, subject to customary regulatory approval and the approval of OFB Bancshares shareholders. Hancock Whitney hope for the purchase to be immediately accretive on GAAP earnings per share, excluding one-off transaction costs and hitting or surpassing the company’s internal return requirements.
A number of financial and legal advisory firms are also involved in this deal. Raymond James & Associates, Inc.
gives Hancock Whitney’s financial advice while Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz are its legal advisors. OFB Bancshares’ financial advisor is Piper Sandler & Co. and its legal counselor is Smith Mackinnon, PA. This deal continues the trend of consolidation in the banking market here, with institutions trying to broaden geographically, enlarge financial positions and position themselves to improve customer service in fast growing markets.
