Feb. 4, 2026 at 4:04 PM ET5 min read

Huntington Bancshares Seals Cadence Bank Merger to Boost Market Reach

Tim BohenAvatar
Written by Tim Bohen
Reviewed by Ben Sturgill Fact-checked by Ellis Hobbs

Huntington Bancshares Incorporated stocks have been trading up by 3.43 percent amid bullish market sentiment.

Key Takeaways

  • The $279B merger with Cadence Bank gives the bank a leading edge, becoming the eighth-largest in Texas.
  • Recent buy ratings highlight Huntington’s strategic momentum in high-growth regions.
  • Strong Q4 performance reported, with EPS of 37c surpassing expectations, showing broad-based growth.
  • Revenue and asset growth projections for 2026 spark optimism among investors.
  • $21 price target set post-quarterly earnings beat, though future guidance indicates rising operational expenses.

Candlestick Chart

Live Update At 16:02:18 EST: On Wednesday, February 04, 2026 Huntington Bancshares Incorporated stock [NASDAQ: HBAN] is trending up by 3.43%! Discover the key drivers behind this movement as well as our expert analysis in the detailed breakdown below.

Quick Financial Overview

Huntington Bancshares Incorporated recently released its fourth-quarter earnings for 2025, showing an adjusted EPS of 37 cents, creeping above the consensus of 32 cents. Their book value per share touched $9.89 — a notable figure signaling robust credit quality and a 10.4% CET1 capital ratio. Analysts have taken notice, offering various price adjustments in response. For instance, Huntington’s target was elevated to $21 following a Q4 earnings success. Yet, concern hovers over the uptick in costs, leading to a downward revision of 2026 EPS by 7% to $1.70.

More Breaking News

The merger with Cadence Bank broadens Huntington’s footprint, especially in dynamic markets like Texas. Meanwhile, the parent company, Capstone Partners, predicts an M&A surge, backed by expanding operations and expected interest rate reductions.

Market Reactions Reflect Expansion and Future Projections

Huntington’s recent movements have caught investors’ attention significantly. The completion of their merger with Cadence Bank isn’t just an addition of 390 branches. It’s an operational lift set to bolster presence across the southern U.S. Repositioned as one of the top regional banks, their footprint extends over 21 states, with an impressive $279B in assets.

This strategic shift not only prompts rapid expansion but also reflects an enthusiastic market sentiment. As part of its robust growth strategy, Huntington eyes a 6%-9% CAGR for its Pre-Provision Net Revenue (PPNR) over the medium term. Such projections are linked to targets of 18%-19% ROTCE and positive operational leverage.

Their stronghold in new markets is perhaps the clearest indication that this merger, completed effortlessly, sets the stage for further scaling and profitability. Additionally, balance sheet momentum enhances investor confidence, despite the increase in expenses brought on by their ambitious acquisition endeavors.

Anticipation of a financial upswing for Huntington is evident from analysts’ perspectives, reflecting a heightened state of readiness to accommodate growth.

Conclusion

Huntington Bancshares has adeptly positioned itself ahead of the curve, leveraging the momentum from the newly established Cadence Bank partnership. It’s a tactical leap that places them at the forefront of regional banking. With a clear commitment to expansion, and despite the shadow of expense increases, Huntington maintains its course with disciplined execution.

As Tim Bohen, lead trainer with StocksToTrade says, “I focus on momentum that’s visible right now. Speculation on future moves is outside my playbook.” This mindset aligns perfectly with Huntington’s strategy, as the traders capitalize on current market dynamics rather than getting lost in speculation. The merger’s impact resonates through projections, amplified by a strong Q4 scorecard and strategic market spillover into high-growth areas. Huntington’s recent actions have indeed paved a promising path for operational dynamism and sustained growth, placing them firmly on an upward trajectory in the coming quarters.

This is stock news, not investment advice. StocksToTrade News delivers real-time stock market updates tailored to highlight the key catalysts driving short-term price movements. Our coverage is designed for active traders and investors who thrive in fast-moving markets, with a focus on volatile sectors like penny stocks, AI stocks, Robinhood stocks and other momentum plays. From earnings reports and FDA approvals to mergers, new contracts, and unusual trading volume, we break down the events that can spark significant price action.

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