First Financial Bancorp reported fourth-quarter earnings of $0.80 per share, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.78 and marking a 12.7% increase from $0.71 per share in the year-ago period. The bank highlighted continued strength in its core lending activities, with quarterly net interest income rising 8% year-over-year, driven by a combination of targeted commercial loan origination and higher earning asset yields. Non-interest income held steady despite volatile markets, supported by fee income from deposit services and wealth management. Credit metrics remained stable, with the provision for loan losses declining by 15% compared to Q4 2024, reflecting improved asset quality and lower net charge-offs. Management noted that deposit inflows of $350 million during the quarter helped maintain a strong liquidity position heading into 2026.