Park National Corporation (PRK)

Park National (PRK) reported Q3 earnings that surpassed analyst estimates and announced a definitive agreement to acquire First Citizens Bancshares, Inc. on October 27, 2025. Piper Sandler maintained a "Neutral" recommendation for PRK on October 29, 2025. A report highlighted potential declines in Park National's share value due to uncertainties surrounding the integration of First Citizens on November 4, 2025. Several directors of Park National Corp. made common share awards (insider buying) on October 27, 2025. An ex-dividend reminder was issued on November 19, 2025. Park National (PRK) shares crossed above their 200-day moving average on January 15, 2026. Park National Corporation reported its 2025 results, with Q4 earnings beating Wall Street estimates, and announced an increase to its quarterly cash dividend on January 26, 2026. Park National Corporation successfully completed its merger with First Citizens Bancshares, Inc. on February 1, 2026. Zacks upgraded Park National (PRK) to a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) around February 3, 2026.

Demand for loans is generally highest in the spring and summer months, declining to lows in December, January, and February. Commercial loan demand experiences a "Busy Season" from mid-September to late November, and a second active period starting around the third week of January. Real estate loan demand typically peaks during June, July, and August, with lower demand in the winter. Wealth management services often experience a "summer slowdown," increasing towards the end of the year. Consumer credit saw an increase in the fourth quarter of 2025, specifically in December 2025.

Park National Corp. is a financial holding company based in Newark, Ohio, providing banking and non-banking financial services through subsidiaries like The Park National Bank, Scope Leasing, Inc., Guardian Financial Services Company, and SE Property Holdings, LLC. The company offers deposit accounts, loan products, wealth management, cash management, and electronic banking. As of December 31, 2024, Park National Corporation had $9.8 billion in total assets.

Park National Corp. operates with over 85 offices and ATMs in Ohio, Kentucky, and the Carolinas. The merger with First Citizens Bancshares, Inc. has expanded its presence into Tennessee, bringing the total number of branches to over 100 across these states.

Park National Corp. has maintained a reputation for consistent growth and customer focus. Its financial performance has been solid, with increased net interest margin and strong loan growth. The merger with First Citizens Bancshares, Inc., expanding into Tennessee, is viewed favorably, although initial integration concerns existed. The successful completion of the merger and positive financial outlook suggest a positive impact on its brand and market position.

Park National Corporation's ownership is mainly held by institutional investors, including BlackRock, Inc., The Vanguard Group, Inc., State Street Global Advisors, Inc., and Charles Schwab Investment Management, Inc. Public Companies & Retail Investors hold 36.79% of the shares, while insiders hold approximately 2.77%.