South Plains Financial to Acquire Bank of Houston in Major Merger

Illustration of a bank merger in Houston, Texas.

Houston, Texas, December 3, 2025

South Plains Financial, Inc. announced a merger agreement to acquire BOH Holdings, Inc., the parent company of Bank of Houston, valued at approximately $105.9 million. This acquisition aims to strengthen South Plains’ presence in the thriving Houston market and enhance community banking services. The merger is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, contingent upon regulatory approvals, with both banks projected to have combined assets of approximately $5.4 billion. Leadership continuity is assured as Jim Stein will continue to lead operations in Houston, ensuring stability for customers.

South Plains Financial to Acquire Bank of Houston in Major Merger

Strategic Move to Expand in the Houston Market

LUBBOCK, Texas, December 3, 2025 – South Plains Financial, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPFI) has stepped into the spotlight with its announcement of a definitive merger agreement to acquire BOH Holdings, Inc., the parent company of Bank of Houston. Valued at approximately $105.9 million, this all-stock transaction positions South Plains as a formidable player in the bustling financial landscape of Texas.

This acquisition not only reinforces South Plains’ commitment to the Houston metropolitan area, one of the nation’s fastest-growing markets, but also highlights the potential for enhanced community banking services across the region. Such initiatives are essential in fostering local growth and supporting Texas entrepreneurs who drive our economy forward.

Financial Strengthening Through Collaboration

The merger is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, contingent upon regulatory approvals and the consent of BOH shareholders. Upon completion, the new entity will showcase impressive financial metrics with combined assets of approximately $5.4 billion, $3.8 billion in loans, and $4.6 billion in deposits. These figures underline the robust foundation on which both banks will assemble their future operations.

Analysis suggests that this merger will be 11% accretive to South Plains’ earnings per share in 2027, reflecting strong operational synergies. With the tangible book value per share expected to earn back in less than three years, the merger creates an exciting opportunity not only for shareholders but also for the communities served by both banks.

Leadership Continuity Ensures Customer Confidence

Jim Stein, the existing Chairman, President, and CEO of Bank of Houston, will continue to lead operations in Houston and join the boards of both South Plains and City Bank. This familiar leadership presence is crucial for maintaining customer trust and ensuring a smooth transition as the two organizations combine their strengths to enhance service offerings.

A Positive Outlook for Customers and Services

For current customers of Bank of Houston, it will be largely business as usual as the merger unfolds. All account numbers, routing numbers, debit cards, pensions, ATM and branch access, and other services are expected to remain unchanged until at least May 2026. This customer-focused approach emphasizes the banks’ commitment to a seamless transition and continued support for their clientele.

Further, Bank of Houston branches are expected to remain open, ensuring that customers will continue to have local access to their banking services without disruption. This stability illustrates how strategic mergers can bolster local economies while enhancing service delivery.

Empowering Local Economies Through Expansion

The planned acquisition reflects a broader trend in which financial institutions are seeking consolidation to create added value for shareholders and customers alike. By focusing on strategic growth in Texas, such alliances promote innovation and community involvement, which are vital ingredients for economic success. As organizations align their goals with those of their communities, Texas entrepreneurs and small businesses can thrive, contributing to a more dynamic economy.

Conclusion: Looking Forward to Texas Economic Growth

South Plains Financial’s acquisition of BOH Holdings showcases the resilience and ingenuity of Texas-based banks to adapt and thrive in a competitive landscape. As these two entities prepare to unite their capabilities, it is essential for local businesses and communities to remain engaged and support one another. This merger not only represents a pivotal moment for the banks involved but also signifies broader economic growth opportunities for San Antonio and the larger state economy. Let’s champion our local financial institutions as they embark on this promising journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • What is the value of the acquisition?
    The acquisition is valued at approximately $105.9 million.
  • When is the merger expected to close?
    The merger is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals and BOH shareholder approval.
  • What are the financial highlights of BOH as of September 30, 2025?
    BOH reported assets of approximately $772 million, with $633 million in loans and $629 million in deposits.
  • How will the merger affect Bank of Houston customers?
    For now, it is business as usual. Account numbers, routing numbers, debit cards, PINs, ATM and branch access, and other services are expected to remain the same until at least May 2026, and customers will receive advance notice before any changes.
  • Will Bank of Houston branches close as part of the merger?
    No. All Bank of Houston branches are expected to remain open, and hours of operation are not anticipated to change.
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Key Features of the Acquisition

Feature Details
Acquisition Value Approximately $105.9 million
Expected Closing Date Second quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals and BOH shareholder approval
Combined Assets Approximately $5.4 billion
Combined Loans Approximately $3.8 billion
Combined Deposits Approximately $4.6 billion
Impact on Earnings Per Share Expected to be 11% accretive in 2027
Tangible Book Value Per Share Earnback Less than three years
Leadership Post-Merger Jim Stein, BOH’s Chairman, President, and CEO, will join South Plains and continue leading operations in Houston; appointed to boards of South Plains and City Bank
Branch Operations All Bank of Houston branches are expected to remain open, with no anticipated changes to hours of operation

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STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER

The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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