First Financial Bankshares vs Associated Bank

This page compares First Financial Bankshares Inc and Associated Banc-Corp across business models, financial performance, and market context, presenting neutral, accessible information to help readers understand similarities and differences in strategy and operations. Educational content, not financial advice.

This page compares First Financial Bankshares Inc and Associated Banc-Corp across business models, financial performance, and market context, presenting neutral, accessible information to help readers...

Comparison Snapshot

Key Financial Metrics

FFIN

Metric

ASB

$4.63B

Market Cap

$4.34B

6.48%

Potential Profit

5.89%

Hold

Analyst Rating

Hold

Investment Analysis

First Financial Bankshares

FFIN

Pros

First Financial Bankshares operates a strong community banking model with a diversified loan portfolio across commercial, agricultural, and real estate sectors.
The company maintains a solid balance sheet, with assets exceeding $14 billion and a reputation for financial security.
Recent leadership appointments and board additions signal a focus on strategic growth and improved governance.

Considerations

Valuation metrics are elevated compared to sector averages, with a price-to-earnings ratio significantly above the industry norm.
Revenue is heavily concentrated in Texas, exposing the bank to regional economic and regulatory risks.
The company's reliance on construction and development lending may increase vulnerability to downturns in the real estate market.

Associated Bank

ASB

Pros

Associated Banc-Corp operates a broad branch network across multiple Midwest states, providing geographic diversification and scale.
The bank offers a wide range of commercial and retail banking services, supporting stable revenue streams from diverse customer segments.
Recent financial reports indicate improved asset quality and disciplined cost management.

Considerations

The bank faces competitive pressures from larger national institutions and fintech firms in its core markets.
Net interest margins have been under pressure due to the current rate environment, affecting profitability.
Exposure to cyclical industries in the Midwest may increase vulnerability to regional economic fluctuations.

About The Companies

First Financial Bankshares (FFIN)

First Financial Bankshares, Inc. (FFIN) is a regional U.S. bank holding company with a market capitalisation of roughly $4.6bn. It operates through commercial and retail banking activities, earning from net interest income, fees and lending services. Investors should note its regional footprint and relatively concentrated loan and deposit base, which can make performance more sensitive to the local economy and credit conditions. Earnings are influenced by interest-rate movements, loan growth, and deposit costs; higher rates can lift margins but may also pressure borrowers. The company has historically distributed a dividend, but yield and future payouts depend on earnings and capital priorities. Key risks include credit losses in an economic downturn, deposit volatility, and regulatory oversight. This summary provides general information for educational purposes only and is not personalised financial advice — values can fall as well as rise, and past performance is not a guarantee of future returns.

Associated Bank (ASB)

Associated Banc-Corp is a US-based bank holding company offering a wide spectrum of financial products and services. Operating through its main subsidiary, Associated Bank, it serves individuals and businesses across more than 100 communities in Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Missouri. The company's operations are categorised into key segments. Its Corporate and Commercial Specialty division caters to larger businesses and municipalities with lending and deposit solutions. The Community, Consumer, and Business arm provides everyday banking, lending, and investment services to individuals and smaller enterprises. With a substantial regional presence and a diverse service portfolio, Associated Banc-Corp represents a significant player in the Midwestern financial landscape. As with any bank, its performance can be influenced by economic conditions and interest rate changes. Remember, past performance is not an indicator of future results.

Which Baskets Do They Appear In?

Banking Liquidity Strain: Risks and Resilient Options

U.S. banks have significantly increased their borrowing from the Fed's emergency lending facility, signaling potential stress in short-term funding markets. This theme focuses on resilient financial institutions and technology providers that can help navigate or benefit from these tightening liquidity conditions.

Published: October 16, 2025

Explore Basket

Banking On The Fed's Rate Hold

The Federal Reserve's decision to maintain current interest rates, despite political pressure, signals a commitment to managing inflation. This creates an investment opportunity in companies that benefit from a stable and higher interest rate environment, such as banks and other financial services firms.

Published: July 30, 2025

Explore Basket

Which Baskets Do They Appear In?

Banking Liquidity Strain: Risks and Resilient Options

U.S. banks have significantly increased their borrowing from the Fed's emergency lending facility, signaling potential stress in short-term funding markets. This theme focuses on resilient financial institutions and technology providers that can help navigate or benefit from these tightening liquidity conditions.

Published: October 16, 2025

Explore Basket

Banking On The Fed's Rate Hold

The Federal Reserve's decision to maintain current interest rates, despite political pressure, signals a commitment to managing inflation. This creates an investment opportunity in companies that benefit from a stable and higher interest rate environment, such as banks and other financial services firms.

Published: July 30, 2025

Explore Basket

Discover More Comparisons

First Financial Bankshares vs International Bancshares

First Financial Bankshares vs Victory Capital

First Financial Bankshares vs F&G

First Financial Bankshares vs F&G: Company comparison

First Financial Bankshares vs Associated Bank

Comparison Snapshot