GlobeNewswire Inc | Oct 21, 2021 07:31AM EDT

October 21, 2021

BATON ROUGE, La., Oct. 21, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Business First Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: BFST) (Business First), parent company of b1BANK, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, today announced its unaudited results for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, including net income of $10.3 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, a decrease of $7.1 million and $0.34, respectively, from the prior quarter ended June 30, 2021. On a non-GAAP basis, core net income for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, which excludes certain income and expenses, was $10.9 million, or $0.53 per diluted share, a decrease of $7.8 million and $0.37, respectively, from prior quarter ended June 30, 2021. The decrease was primarily attributable to the gain on sale recognized from the SBA PPP loan portfolio sale during the quarter ended June 30, 2021.

The investments weve made over the past few years continued to pay off in the third quarter, said Jude Melville, president and CEO. Record and diversified organic loan growth, success recruiting and retaining in a competitive jobs market andestablishment of a new partnership with Texas Citizens Bank in Houston all illustrate the consistent strengthening of our brand and capacity to deliver for our partners in the region.Thank you to all of our employees and clients for sticking with us during Hurricane Ida and its aftermath.While we pray this will be the last major weather event to hit our footprint for some time to come, I am once again thankful to be part of such a resilient and supportive team.

On October 20, 2021, Business Firsts board of directors declared a quarterly dividend based upon financial performance for the third quarter in the amount of $0.12 per share, same as the prior quarter, to the common shareholders of record as of November 15, 2021. The dividend will be paid on November 30, 2021, or as soon thereafter as practicable.

Quarterly Highlights

-- Loan Growth. Total loans held for investment at September 30, 2021, were $3.1 billion, an increase of $211.4 million compared to June 30, 2021, or 7.40% for the quarter and 29.61% annualized. Excluding the decrease in Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, total loans held for investment increased for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, by 8.04%, or 32.15% annualized. Loan growth in Dallas, Tx (36.0%), greater New Orleans (28.5%), and the Baton Rouge/capital region (23.3%) markets accounted for approximately 87.9% of quarterly loan growth. -- New Loan Production Office (LPO) Activity. Business First opened an LPO in New Orleans/Metairie, La. (i.e., greater New Orleans area). -- Stock Repurchases. During the quarter ended September 30, 2021, Business First repurchased approximately 360,000 shares of its common stock at a weighted average price of $23.18 per share (including commissions), for a total cost of $8.4 million. -- Efficiency Initiatives.Business First regularly evaluates its branch network in search of optimization opportunities and closed two branches recently, one in Minden, La, during Q3 2021, and a second by sale in Oak Grove, La, on October 1, 2021. Additionally, 11 interactive teller machines (ITMs) with fully functional video call centers, providing extended client hours, were launched during Q3 2021. -- Texas Citizens Bancorp, Inc. Acquisition.On October 20, 2021, Business First executed a definitive agreement to acquire Texas Citizens Bancshares, Inc. (TCBI), the parent bank holding company for Texas Citizens Bank, National Association, based in Pasadena, Texas. As of September 30, 2021, TCBI had consolidated total assets of $516.9 million, loans of $365.7 million, and deposits of $452.0 million.

Financial Condition

September 30, 2021, Compared to June 30, 2021

Loans

Loans held for investment increased $211.4 million, or 7.40% (29.61% annualized), for the quarter ended September 30, 2021. The increase was largely attributable to loan originations in our commercial and nonfarm, nonresidential real estate portfolios which were $62.4 million and $109.1 million, respectively. Year to date annualized loan growth was 3.34%, inclusive of SBA PPP loans. As of September 30, 2021, SBA PPP loans with an unpaid principal balance of $9.7 million remained outstanding, compared to $25.7 million as of June 30, 2021.

Excluding the net decrease in SBA PPP loans, total loans held for investment increased for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, by 8.04%, or 32.15% annualized. Year to date annualized loan growth was 18.97% excluding SBA PPP loans.

Credit Quality

Nonperforming loans as a percentage of total loans held for investment increased from 0.40% as of June 30, 2021, to 0.45% as of September 30, 2021. Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets decreased from 0.42% as of June 30, 2021, to 0.37% as of September 30, 2021. The increase in the nonperforming loans ratio was largely attributable to $2.1 million increase in nonaccrual loans, mainly related to a single $1.5 million (commercial) loan.

Total Shareholders Equity

Book value per common share was $21.11 at September 30, 2021, compared to $20.78 at June 30, 2021. On a non-GAAP basis, tangible book value per share was $17.53 at September 30, 2021, compared to $17.24 at June 30, 2021.

September 30, 2021, Compared to September 30, 2020

Loans

Total loans held for investment decreased by $16.2 million compared to September 30, 2020, or (0.53) %, primarily due to the forgiveness and portfolio sale of SBA PPP loans. Excluding SBA PPP loans, loans increased $371.8 million, or 13.85%.

Credit Quality

Nonperforming loans as a percentage of total loans held for investment increased from 0.32% as of September 30, 2020, to 0.45% as of September 30, 2021. Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets decreased from 0.54% as of September 30, 2020, to 0.37% as of September 30, 2021. The increase in the nonperforming ratio was largely attributable to an increase in nonaccrual loans.

Total Shareholders Equity

Book value per common share was $21.11 at September 30, 2021, compared to $19.26 at September 30, 2020. On a non-GAAP basis, tangible book value per share was $17.53 at September 30, 2021, compared to $16.18 at September 30, 2020, an increase of 8.34%.

Results of Operations

Third Quarter 2021 Compared to Second Quarter 2021

Net Income and Diluted Earnings Per Share

For the quarter ended September 30, 2021, net income was $10.3 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, compared to net income of $17.4 million, or $0.84 per diluted share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2021. The decrease, $7.1 million and $0.34, respectively, was largely attributable to the $10.0 million gain on sale of loans recognized in the period ended June 30, 2021. The gain primarily related to a $9.2 million gain recognized upon the sale of SBA PPP loans with an outstanding principal balance of $243.6 million.

On a non-GAAP basis, core net income, which excludes certain income and expenses, for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, was $10.9 million, or $0.53 per diluted share, compared to core net income of $18.7 million, or $0.90 per diluted share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2021. Notable noncore events impacting earnings for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, included $211,000 in occupancy and bank premises expenses attributable to hurricane damages (primarily related to Ida, 2021), $145,000 in acquisition-related expenses and $392,000 in losses on sales of former premises and equipment within other income, compared to $938,000 in occupancy and bank premises expenses attributable to hurricane damage (related to Hurricanes Laura/Delta, 2020, but resolved in the current year) and a $540,000 loss on sales of former premises and equipment within other income, for the quarter ended June 30, 2021.

Interest Income

For the quarter ended September 30, 2021, net interest income totaled $37.3 million and net interest margin and net interest spread were 3.71% and 3.51%, respectively, compared to $37.9 million, 3.87% and 3.68% for the quarter ended June 30, 2021. The average yield on total interest-earning assets was 4.14% for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, compared to 4.32% for the quarter ended June 30, 2021. Net interest margin and net interest spread were largely impacted for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, by $2.2 million less in SBA PPP origination fees, or (22) basis points for each. The reduction in interest income was largely attributable to lower SBA PPP portfolio interest and fee income due to the $243.6 million portfolio sale during the quarter ended June 30, 2021, partially offset by interest and fee income due to loan growth and an additional day in the third quarter. The average yield on the loan portfolio (excluding SBA PPP loans) was 5.11% for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, compared to 5.13% for the quarter ended June 30, 2021.

Non-GAAP net interest margin and net interest spread (excluding loan discount accretion of $1.5 million) were 3.56% and 3.36%, respectively, for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, compared to 3.71% and 3.52% (excluding loan discount accretion of $1.6 million) for the quarter ended June 30, 2021.

Interest Expense

For the quarter ended September 30, 2021, overall cost of funds (which includes noninterest-bearing deposits) decreased by one basis point, from 0.45% to 0.44%, compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2021.

Other Income

For the quarter ended September 30, 2021, other income was lower by $11.0 million. The reduction was primarily due to a $9.9 million gain on sale of loans recognized in the period ended June 30, 2021. Additionally, there was a reduction of Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) investment income of $1.2 million compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2021.

Other Expenses

For the quarter ended September 30, 2021, other expenses were lower by $1.5 million. The reduction was largely attributed to lower reserve for unfunded commitments, $586,000, and hurricane-related expenses within occupancy and bank premises, $765,000.

Provision for Loan Losses

During the quarter ended September 30, 2021, Business First recorded a provision for loan losses of $1.1 million, compared to $2.2 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2021. The decrease for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, was driven primarily by the improvement in the qualitative factors (attributed to the general economy and energy sector), offset by reserves for new loan growth.

Return on Assets and Equity

Return on average assets and equity, each on an annualized basis, were 0.95% and 9.47%, respectively, for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, compared to 1.58% and 16.57%, respectively, for the quarter ended June 30, 2021. Both returns were impacted by higher net income for the quarter ended June 30, 2021, mainly attributable to the gain on sale of the SBA PPP portfolio.

Third Quarter 2021 Compared to Third Quarter 2020

Net Income and Diluted Earnings Per Share

For the quarter ended September 30, 2021, net income was $10.3 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, compared to net income of $9.6 million, or $0.46 per diluted share, for the quarter ended September 30, 2020. The increases in net income and diluted earnings per share were largely attributable to a decrease in the provision for loan losses of $1.1 million, as increases in other income were largely offset with increases in other expenses.

On a non-GAAP basis, core net income, which excludes certain income and expenses, for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, was $10.9 million, or $0.53 per diluted share, compared to core net income of $11.0 million, or $0.53 per diluted share, for the quarter ended September 30, 2020. Notable noncore events impacting earnings for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, included $211,000 in occupancy and bank premises expenses attributable to hurricane damages (primarily related to Ida, 2021), $145,000 in acquisition-related expenses and $392,000 in losses on sales of former premises and equipment within other income, compared to $635,000 in losses on sales of former premises and equipment within other income and $1.2 million in acquisition-related expenses incurred during the quarter ended September 30, 2020.

Interest Income

For the quarter ended September 30, 2021, net interest income totaled $37.3 million and net interest margin and net interest spread were 3.71% and 3.51%, respectively, compared to $36.9 million, 4.06% and 3.81% for the quarter ended September 30, 2020. The average yield on the loan portfolio (excluding SBA PPP loans) was 5.11% for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, compared to 5.65% for the quarter ended September 30, 2020. The increase in interest income was largely attributable to higher average balances in loans and securities, attributable to organic loan and deposit growth, offset by lower yielding new loans and securities.

Average yield on total interest-earning assets, net interest margin, and net interest spread were negatively impacted for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, by lower yielding loans and securities, offset partially by lower deposit and borrowing costs.

Non-GAAP net interest margin and net interest spread (excluding loan discount accretion of $1.5 million) were 3.56% and 3.36%, respectively, for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, compared to 3.81% and 3.56% (excluding loan discount accretion of $2.3 million) for the quarter ended September 30, 2020.

Interest Expense

For the quarter ended September 30, 2021, overall cost of funds (which includes noninterest-bearing deposits) decreased by 19 basis points, from 0.63% to 0.44%, compared to the quarter ended September 30, 2020. The decrease in cost of funds was primarily attributable to an overall reduction in interest rates on deposit offerings and reduction in Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) advance balances, offset by an increase in subordinated debt balances.

Other Income

For the quarter ended September 30, 2021, the increase in other income, $2.1 million, was largely attributable to the $1.1 million increase in fees and brokerage commission, related to the Smith Shellnut Wilson, LLC. (SSW) acquisition which occurred in Q2 2021, as well as modest increases in gain on disposal of other assets, $641,000, debit card and ATM fee income, $133,000, and service charges, $171,000, partially offset by more losses on the sale of other real estate owned, $(454,000), compared to the quarter ended September 30, 2020.

Other Expenses

For the quarter ended September 30, 2021, the increase in other expense, $2.6 million, was largely attributable to the increase in salary and employee benefits, $1.4 million, as well as more modest increases in various other expenses, $687,000, depreciation and amortization, $398,000, advertising and promotions, $292,000, and occupancy and bank premises, $235,000, partially offset by a reduction in merger and conversion-related expenses, $(411,000), compared to the quarter ended September 30, 2020.

Provision for Loan Losses

During the quarter ended September 30, 2021, Business First recorded a provision for loan losses of $1.1 million compared to $2.5 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2020. The reserve for the quarter ended September 30, 2020, was impacted by the estimated impact on the general economy of the COVID-19 pandemic at the time.

Return on Assets and Equity

Return on average assets and return on average equity, each on an annualized basis, were 0.95% and 9.47%, respectively, for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, from 0.98% and 9.85%, respectively, for the quarter ended September 30, 2020.

About Business First Bancshares, Inc.

Business First Bancshares, Inc., (Nasdaq: BFST) through its banking subsidiary b1BANK, has $4.4 billion in assets, $4.7 billion in assets under management through b1BANKs affiliate Smith Shellnut Wilson, LLC (SSW) (excludes $1.0 billion of b1BANK assets managed by SSW) and operates Banking Centers and Loan Production Offices in markets across Louisiana and the Dallas, Texas area, providing commercial and personal banking products and services. Commercial banking services include commercial loans and letters of credit, working capital lines and equipment financing, and treasury management services. b1BANK was awarded #1 Best-In-State Bank, Louisiana, by Forbes and Statista, and is a three-time recipient ofBaton Rouge Business Reports Best Places to Work in Baton Rouge. Visit b1BANK.com for more information.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This press release includes certain non-GAAP financial measures (e.g., referenced as core or tangible) intended to supplement, not substitute for, comparable GAAP measures. Core measures typically adjust income available to common shareholders for certain significant activities or transactions that, in managements opinion, can distort period-to-period comparisons of Business Firsts performance. Transactions that are typically excluded from non-GAAP measures include realized and unrealized gains/losses on former bank premises and equipment, investment sales, acquisition-related expenses (including, but not limited to, legal costs, system conversion costs, severance and retention payments, etc.). Tangible measures adjust common equity by subtracting goodwill, core deposit intangibles, and customer intangibles, net of accumulated amortization. Management believes presentations of these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful supplemental information that is essential to a proper understanding of the operating results of the Companys core business. These non-GAAP disclosures are not necessarily comparable to non-GAAP measures that may be presented by other companies. Reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures to GAAP financial measures are provided at the end of the tables below.

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this release may not be based on historical facts and are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements may be identified by their reference to a future period or periods or by the use of forward-looking terminology such as anticipate, believe, estimate, expect, may, might, will, would, could, or intend. We caution you not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this news release, in that actual results could differ materially from those indicated in such forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including those factors specified in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and other public filings. Actual results will also be significantly impacted by the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, including, among other effects: the impact of the public health crisis; the extent and duration of closures of businesses, including our branches, vendors and customers; the operation of financial markets; employment levels; market liquidity; the impact of various actions taken in response by the U.S. federal government, the Federal Reserve, other banking regulators, state and local governments; the adequacy of our allowance for loan losses in relation to potential losses in our loan portfolio; and the impact that all of these factors have on our borrowers, other customers, vendors and counterparties. We undertake no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date of this news release.

Additional Information

For additional information on Business First, you may obtain Business Firsts reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) free of charge by using the SECs EDGAR service on the SECs website at www.sec.gov or by contacting the SEC for further information at 1-800-SEC-0330. Alternatively, these documents can be obtained free of charge from Business First by directing a request to: Business First Bancshares, Inc., 500 Laurel Street, Suite 101, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70801, Attention: Corporate Secretary.

This report does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote or approval with respect to the merger. Nooffer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and nooffer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy shall be made in any jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation would be unlawful.

In connection with the merger, Business First will file with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-4 (the Registration Statement) that will include a proxy statement of TCBI and a prospectus of Business First (the Proxy Statement-Prospectus), and Business First may file with the SEC other relevant documents concerning the merger. The definitive Proxy Statement-Prospectus will be mailed to the shareholders of TCBI. SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND THE PROXY STATEMENT-PROSPECTUS REGARDING THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC BY BUSINESS FIRST, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THOSE DOCUMENTS, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION.

Free copies of the Proxy Statement-Prospectus, as well as other filings containing information about Business First, may be obtained at the SECs Internet site ( http://www.sec.gov), when they are filed by Business First. You will also be able to obtain these documents, when they are filed, free of charge, from Business First at www.b1bank.com. Copies of the Proxy Statement-Prospectus can also be obtained, when it becomes available, free of charge, by directing a request to Business First Bancshares, Inc., 500 Laurel Street, Suite 101, Baton Rouge, LA 70801, Attention: Corporate Secretary, Telephone: 225-248-7600 or to Texas Citizens Bancshares, Inc., 4949 Fairmont Parkway, Pasadena, TX 77505, Attention: Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Telephone: 713-948-5727.

Participants in the Solicitation

Business First, Texas Citizens Bancshares, Inc. (TCBI) and certain of their directors, executive officers and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of TCBI in connection with the merger. Information about Business Firsts directors and executive officers is available in its proxy statement for its 2021 annual meeting of shareholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 15, 2021. Information regarding all of the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be deemed participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be contained in the Proxy Statement-Prospectus pertaining to the merger and other relevant materials to be filed with the SEC when they become available. Free copies of these documents may be obtained as described in the preceding paragraph.

Business First Bancshares, Inc. Selected Financial Information (Unaudited) For the Quarter Ended September 30, June 30, September 30, (Dollars in thousands) 2021 2021 2020 Balance Sheet Ratios Loans (HFI) to Deposits 81.37 % 76.66 % 95.25 % Shareholders' Equity to Assets 9.77 % 9.97 % 10.07 % Ratio Loans Receivable Held for Investment Commercial (1) $ 723,077 $ 660,691 $ 1,015,173 Real Estate: Construction and Land 464,808 454,055 334,100 Farmland 85,898 77,133 56,567 1-4 Family Residential 464,462 459,037 493,344 Multi-Family Residential 107,551 89,796 99,901 Nonfarm Nonresidential 1,111,771 1,002,707 970,197 Total Real Estate 2,234,490 2,082,728 1,954,109 Consumer and Other (1) 108,669 111,467 113,192 Total Loans (Held for Investment) $ 3,066,236 $ 2,854,886 $ 3,082,474 Allowance for Loan Losses Balance, Beginning of Period $ 26,702 $ 25,251 $ 18,715 Charge-offs ? Quarterly (81 ) (861 ) (956 ) Recoveries ? Quarterly 378 71 90 Provision for Loan Losses ? 1,147 2,241 2,491 QuarterlyBalance, End of Period $ 28,146 $ 26,702 $ 20,340 Allowance for Loan Losses to Total 0.92 % 0.94 % 0.66 % Loans (HFI)Net Charge-offs (Recoveries) to -0.01 % 0.03 % 0.03 % Average Total Loans Remaining Loan Purchase Discount $ 29,390 $ 30,900 $ 38,207 Nonperforming Assets Nonperforming Loans: Nonaccrual Loans (2) $ 12,622 $ 10,568 $ 7,988 Loans Past Due 90 Days or More (2) 1,030 893 1,986 Total Nonperforming Loans 13,652 11,461 9,974 Other Nonperforming Assets: Other Real Estate Owned 2,152 5,890 10,994 Other Nonperforming Assets: 675 665 414 Total Other Nonperforming Assets 2,827 6,555 11,408 Total Nonperforming Assets $ 16,479 $ 18,016 $ 21,382 Nonperforming Loans to Total Loans 0.45 % 0.40 % 0.32 % (HFI)Nonperforming Assets to Total 0.37 % 0.42 % 0.54 % Assets (1) Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loansaccounted for $9.7 millionof the commercial portfolio as of September 30, 2021.SBA PPP loans accounted for $25.7 million of the commercial portfolio as of June 30, 2021.SBA PPP loans accounted for $392.9 million and $4.8 million of the commercialand consumer portfolios, respectively, as of September 30, 2020. (2) Past due and nonaccrual loan amounts exclude acquired impaired loans, evenif contractually past due or ifthe Company does not expect to receive payment in full, as the Company iscurrently accreting interest incomeover the expected life of the loans.

Business First Bancshares, Inc. Selected Financial Information (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, June 30, September 30, September 30, September 30, (Dollars inthousands, except 2021 2021 2020 2021 2020 per share data) Per Share Data Basic Earnings per $ 0.51 $ 0.84 $ 0.47 $ 1.95 $ 0.93 Common ShareDiluted Earnings 0.50 0.84 0.46 1.94 0.93 per Common ShareDividends per 0.12 0.12 0.10 0.34 0.30 Common ShareBook Value per 21.11 20.78 19.26 21.11 19.26 Common Share Average Common 20,384,879 20,707,313 20,613,481 20,570,506 17,356,830 Shares OutstandingAverage Diluted 20,513,838 20,827,786 20,704,444 20,692,344 17,409,821 Shares OutstandingEnd of PeriodCommon Shares 20,383,504 20,740,759 20,667,237 20,383,504 20,667,237 Outstanding Annualized Performance Ratios Return on Average 0.95 % 1.58 % 0.98 % 1.23 % 0.67 % AssetsReturn on Average 9.47 % 16.57 % 9.85 % 12.60 % 6.30 % EquityNet Interest 3.71 % 3.87 % 4.06 % 3.93 % 3.97 % MarginNet Interest 3.51 % 3.68 % 3.81 % 3.75 % 3.66 % SpreadEfficiency Ratio 67.73 % 56.20 % 65.65 % 60.69 % 71.42 % (1) Total Quarterly/Year-to-Date $ 4,353,885 $ 4,399,911 $ 3,933,631 $ 4,343,407 $ 3,224,940 Average AssetsTotal Quarterly/Year-to-Date 435,400 420,640 390,209 423,977 341,904 Average Equity Other Expenses Salaries and $ 16,791 $ 16,753 $ 15,430 $ 48,470 $ 42,486 Employee BenefitsOccupancy and Bank 1,629 2,276 1,394 5,716 3,824 PremisesDepreciation and 1,720 1,686 1,322 4,999 2,996 AmortizationData Processing 1,994 2,288 1,832 6,105 3,539 FDIC Assessment 581 436 594 1,526 1,013 FeesLegal and Other 553 905 555 2,199 1,492 Professional FeesAdvertising and 612 624 320 1,713 960 PromotionsUtilities and 678 636 789 1,889 1,751 CommunicationsAd Valorem Shares 675 675 673 2,050 1,498 TaxDirectors' Fees 201 194 117 583 291 Other Real EstateOwned Expenses and 103 178 171 660 475 Write-DownsMerger andConversion-Related 145 94 556 249 3,430 ExpensesOther 3,885 4,371 3,198 11,487 7,636 Total Other $ 29,567 $ 31,116 $ 26,951 $ 87,646 $ 71,391 Expenses Other Income Service Charges on $ 1,763 $ 1,683 $ 1,592 $ 5,013 $ 3,686 Deposit AccountsGain (Loss) onSales of (11 ) (50 ) 95 (66 ) 120 SecuritiesDebit card and ATM 1,532 1,777 1,399 4,645 2,765 Fee IncomeBank-Owned Life 356 355 237 1,029 689 Insurance IncomeGain (Loss) on 93 10,042 - 10,114 184 Sales of LoansMortgage 227 241 123 697 364 Origination IncomeFees and Brokerage 1,335 1,416 281 3,294 537 CommissionCorrespondent Bank 10 123 45 276 186 IncomeParticipation Fee 250 240 136 737 182 IncomeGain (Loss) onSales of Other (558 ) (575 ) (104 ) (1,087 ) 28 Real Estate OwnedGain (Loss) onDisposal of Other 14 (9 ) (627 ) 122 (627 ) AssetsPass-throughIncome from SBIC 405 1,602 364 2,060 2,368 PartnershipsOther 932 531 676 1,973 1,535 Total Other Income $ 6,348 $ 17,376 $ 4,217 $ 28,807 $ 12,017 (1) Non-GAAP: Noninterest expense (excluding provision for loan losses) divided by noninterest income plus net interestincome less gain/loss on sales of securities.

Business First Bancshares, Inc. Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) September 30, June 30, September 30, (Dollars in thousands) 2021 2021 2020 Assets Cash and Due From Banks $ 81,361 $ 130,769 $ 103,894 Federal Funds Sold 4,646 232,391 8,395 Securities Available for 1,034,491 882,802 547,535 Sale, at Fair ValuesMortgage Loans Held for Sale 1,498 1,834 671 Loans and Lease Receivable 3,066,236 2,854,886 3,082,474 Allowance for Loan Losses (28,146 ) (26,702 ) (20,340 ) Net Loans and Lease 3,038,090 2,828,184 3,062,134 ReceivablePremises and Equipment, Net 56,611 57,576 59,241 Accrued Interest Receivable 19,025 20,841 25,622 Other Equity Securities 15,259 14,043 15,641 Other Real Estate Owned 2,152 5,890 10,994 Cash Value of Life Insurance 59,085 60,703 44,779 Deferred Taxes, Net 5,618 4,652 5,829 Goodwill 60,062 60,062 53,627 Core Deposit and Customer 12,835 13,271 10,061 IntangiblesOther Assets 14,484 10,941 6,247 Total Assets $ 4,405,217 $ 4,323,959 $ 3,954,670 Liabilities Deposits Noninterest-Bearing $ 1,201,791 $ 1,175,624 $ 945,485 Interest-Bearing 2,566,330 2,548,599 2,290,776 Total Deposits 3,768,121 3,724,223 3,236,261 Securities Sold Under 27,195 25,837 24,604 Agreements to RepurchaseFed Funds Purchased 16,087 - - Short-Term Borrowings 20 20 5,033 Long-Term Borrowings - - 6,000 Payroll Protection Program - - 107,076 Liquidity FacilitySubordinated Debt 81,427 81,427 25,000 Subordinated Debt - Trust 5,000 5,000 5,000 Preferred SecuritiesFederal Home Loan Bank 48,002 28,023 117,950 BorrowingsAccrued Interest Payable 1,835 1,938 3,621 Other Liabilities 27,309 26,485 26,039 Total Liabilities 3,974,996 3,892,953 3,556,584 Shareholders' Equity Common Stock 20,384 20,741 20,667 Additional Paid-In Capital 291,847 299,014 299,762 Retained Earnings 112,243 104,382 67,399 Accumulated Other 5,747 6,869 10,258 Comprehensive Income Total Shareholders' Equity 430,221 431,006 398,086 Total Liabilities and $ 4,405,217 $ 4,323,959 $ 3,954,670 Shareholders' Equity

Business First Bancshares, Inc. Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September June 30, September September 30, September 30, 30, 30,(Dollars in 2021 2021 2020 2021 2020 thousands) Interest Income: Interest and Fees $ 37,900 $ 39,135 $ 39,918 $ 118,454 $ 98,697 on LoansInterest andDividends on 3,598 3,189 2,474 9,616 6,380 SecuritiesInterest onFederal Funds Sold 36 27 69 77 291 and Due From BanksTotal Interest 41,534 42,351 42,461 128,147 105,368 Income Interest Expense: Interest on 3,060 3,235 4,345 9,538 13,826 DepositsInterest on 1,180 1,171 1,184 3,069 3,480 BorrowingsTotal Interest 4,240 4,406 5,529 12,607 17,306 Expense Net Interest 37,294 37,945 36,932 115,540 88,062 Income Provision for Loan 1,147 2,241 2,491 6,747 9,301 Losses: Net InterestIncome After 36,147 35,704 34,441 108,793 78,761 Provision for LoanLosses Other Income: Service Charges on 1,763 1,683 1,592 5,013 3,686 Deposit AccountsGain (Loss) onSales of (11 ) (50 ) 95 (66 ) 120 SecuritiesGain (Loss) on 93 10,042 - 10,114 184 Sales of LoansOther Income 4,503 5,701 2,530 13,746 8,027 Total Other Income 6,348 17,376 4,217 28,807 12,017 Other Expenses: Salaries and 16,791 16,753 15,430 48,470 42,486 Employee BenefitsOccupancy and 3,912 4,264 3,228 11,893 8,007 Equipment ExpenseMerger andConversion-Related 145 94 556 249 3,430 ExpenseOther Expenses 8,719 10,005 7,737 27,034 17,468 Total Other 29,567 31,116 26,951 87,646 71,391 Expenses Income Before 12,928 21,964 11,707 49,954 19,387 Income Taxes: Provision for 2,617 4,536 2,098 9,886 3,227 Income Taxes: Net Income: $ 10,311 $ 17,428 $ 9,609 $ 40,068 $ 16,160

Business First Bancshares, Inc. Consolidated Net Interest Margin (Unaudited) Three Months Ended September 30, 2021 June 30, 2021 September 30, 2020 Average Average Average Outstanding Interest Average Outstanding Interest Average Outstanding Interest Average Earned / Earned / Earned /(Dollars in Balance Interest Yield / Balance Interest Yield / Balance Interest Yield / thousands) Paid Rate Paid Rate Paid Rate Assets Interest-Earning Assets:Total Loans $ 2,948,491 $ 37,666 5.11 % $ 2,814,593 $ 36,116 5.13 % $ 2,638,417 $ 37,250 5.65 % (Excluding SBA PPP)SBA PPP Loans 10,150 234 9.24 % 242,015 $ 3,019 4.99 % 399,366 2,668 2.67 % Securities 946,950 3,598 1.52 % 801,268 3,189 1.59 % 564,630 2,474 1.75 % Available for SaleInterest-BearingDeposit in Other 110,472 36 0.13 % 62,693 27 0.17 % 33,970 69 0.81 % BanksTotalInterest-Earning 4,016,063 41,534 4.14 % 3,920,569 42,351 4.32 % 3,636,383 42,461 4.67 % AssetsAllowance for Loan (27,409 ) (26,032 ) (19,329 ) LossesNoninterest-Earning 365,231 505,374 316,577 AssetsTotal Assets $ 4,353,885 $ 41,534 $ 4,399,911 $ 42,351 $ 3,933,631 $ 42,461 Liabilities andShareholders' Equity Interest-Bearing Liabilities:Interest-Bearing $ 2,566,766 $ 3,060 0.48 % $ 2,615,241 $ 3,235 0.49 % $ 2,262,774 $ 4,345 0.77 % DepositsSubordinated Debt 81,427 1,026 5.04 % 81,427 1,015 4.99 % 25,000 422 6.75 % Subordinated Debt -Trust Preferred 5,000 42 3.36 % 5,000 43 3.44 % 5,000 45 3.60 % SecuritiesAdvances fromFederal Home Loan 36,015 106 1.18 % 32,887 108 1.31 % 122,592 515 1.68 % Bank (FHLB)Paycheck ProtectionProgram Liquidity - - 0.00 % - - 0.00 % 107,076 95 0.35 % Facility (PPPLF)Other Borrowings 26,350 6 0.09 % 24,909 5 0.08 % 35,437 107 1.21 % TotalInterest-Bearing 2,715,558 4,240 0.62 % 2,759,464 4,406 0.64 % 2,557,879 5,529 0.86 % Liabilities Noninterest-Bearing Liabilities:Noninterest-Bearing $ 1,172,752 $ 1,191,900 $ 957,090 DepositsOther Liabilities 30,175 27,907 28,453 TotalNoninterest-Bearing 1,202,927 1,219,807 985,543 LiabilitiesShareholders' 435,400 420,640 390,209 Equity:Total Liabilitiesand Shareholders' $ 4,353,885 $ 4,399,911 $ 3,933,631 Equity Net Interest Spread 3.51 % 3.68 % 3.81 % Net Interest Income $ 37,294 $ 37,945 $ 36,932 Net Interest Margin 3.71 % 3.87 % 4.06 % Overall Cost of 0.44 % 0.45 % 0.63 % Funds NOTE: Average outstanding balances are determined utilizing monthly averages and average yield/rate is calculated utilizing a 30/360 day count convention.

Business First Bancshares, Inc. Consolidated Net Interest Margin (Unaudited) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2021 September 30, 2020 Average Average Outstanding Interest Average Outstanding Interest Average Earned / Earned /(Dollars in Balance Interest Yield / Balance Interest Yield / thousands) Paid Rate Paid Rate Assets Interest-Earning Assets:Total Loans $ 2,802,246 $ 5.25% $ 2,227,681 $ 93,699 5.61% (Excluding SBA PPP) 110,320SBA PPP Loans 209,041 8,134 5.19% 240,164 4,998 2.77% Securities 813,231 9,616 1.58% 444,237 6,380 1.91% Available for SaleInterest-BearingDeposit in Other 91,466 77 0.11% 43,965 291 0.88% BanksTotalInterest-Earning 3,915,984 128,147 4.36% 2,956,047 105,368 4.75% AssetsAllowance for Loan (25,383) (15,046) LossesNoninterest-Earning 452,806 283,939 AssetsTotal Assets $ 4,343,407 $ $ 3,224,940 $ 128,147 105,368 Liabilities andShareholders' Equity Interest-Bearing Liabilities:Interest-Bearing $ 2,588,756 $ 9,538 0.49% $ 1,866,556 $ 13,826 0.99% DepositsSubordinated Debt 63,768 2,499 5.23% 25,000 1,266 6.75% Subordinated Debt -Trust Preferred 5,000 127 3.39% 2,778 79 3.79% SecuritiesAdvances fromFederal Home Loan 35,309 325 1.23% 116,785 1,538 1.76% Bank (FHLB)Paycheck ProtectionProgram Liquidity - - 0.00% 61,326 167 0.36% Facility (PPPLF)Other Borrowings 27,651 118 0.57% 45,179 430 1.27% TotalInterest-Bearing 2,720,484 12,607 0.62% 2,117,624 17,306 1.09% Liabilities Noninterest-Bearing Liabilities:Noninterest-Bearing 1,170,534 738,578 DepositsOther Liabilities 28,412 26,834 TotalNoninterest-Bearing 1,198,946 765,412 LiabilitiesShareholders' 423,977 341,904 EquityTotal Liabilitiesand Shareholders' $ 4,343,407 $ 3,224,940 Equity Net Interest Spread 3.75% 3.66% Net Interest Income $ $ 88,062 115,540Net Interest Margin 3.93% 3.97% Overall Cost of 0.43% 0.81% Funds NOTE: Average outstanding balances are determined utilizing monthly averages and average yield/rate is calculated utilizing a 30/360 day count convention.

Business First Bancshares, Inc. Non-GAAP Measures (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, June 30, September 30, September 30, September 30, (Dollars inthousands, except 2021 2021 2020 2021 2020 per share data) Interest Income: Interest income $ 41,534 $ 42,351 $ 42,461 $ 128,147 $ 105,368 Core interest 41,534 42,351 42,461 128,147 105,368 incomeInterest Expense: Interest expense 4,240 4,406 5,529 12,607 17,306 Core interest 4,240 4,406 5,529 12,607 17,306 expenseProvision for Loan Losses: (b)Provision for loan 1,147 2,241 2,491 6,747 9,301 lossesCore provision 1,147 2,241 2,491 6,747 9,301 expenseOther Income: Other income 6,348 17,376 4,217 28,807 12,017 (Gains) 1osses onformer bank 392 540 635 932 509 premises andequipment(Gains) 1osses on 11 50 (95 ) 66 (120 ) sale of securitiesCore other income 6,751 17,966 4,757 29,805 12,406 Other Expense: Other expense 29,567 31,116 26,951 87,646 71,391 Acquisition-related (145 ) (94 ) (1,206 ) (249 ) (8,991 ) expenses (2)Stock optionexercises - excess - - - - (71 ) taxes (founder'sgrants)Occupancy and bankpremises - (211 ) (938 ) - (1,499 ) - hurricane repairCore other expense 29,211 30,084 25,745 - 85,898 62,329 Pre-Tax Income: (a) Pre-tax income 12,928 21,964 11,707 49,954 19,387 (Gains) 1osses onformer bank 392 540 635 932 509 premises andequipment(Gains) 1osses on 11 50 (95 ) 66 (120 ) sale of securitiesAcquisition-related 145 94 1,206 249 8,991 expenses (2)Stock optionexercises - excess - - - - 71 taxes (founder'sgrants)Occupancy and bankpremises - 211 938 - 1,499 - hurricane repairCore pre-tax income 13,687 23,586 13,453 52,700 28,838 Provision for Income Taxes: (1)Provision for 2,617 4,536 2,098 9,886 3,227 income taxesTax on (gains)losses on former 82 113 133 195 107 bank premises andequipmentTax on (gains)losses on sale of 2 11 (20 ) 14 (25 ) securitiesTax onacquisition-related 24 20 241 46 1,607 expenses (2)Tax on stock optionexercises - - - - 601 (founder's grants)Tax on occupancyand bank premises - 44 197 - 314 - hurricane repairCore provision for 2,769 4,877 2,452 10,455 5,517 income taxesNet Income: Net income 10,311 17,428 9,609 40,068 16,160 (Gains) losses onformer bankpremises and 310 427 502 737 402 equipment , net oftax(Gains) losses onsale of securities, 9 39 (75 ) 52 (95 ) net of taxAcquisition-relatedexpenses (2), net 121 74 965 203 7,384 of taxStock optionexercises, net of - - - - (530 ) tax (founder'sgrants)Occupancy and bankpremises - 167 741 - 1,185 - hurricane repair,net of taxCore net income $ 10,918 $ 18,709 $ 11,001 $ 42,245 $ 23,321 Pre-tax,pre-provision $ 14,075 $ 24,205 $ 14,198 $ 56,701 $ 28,688 earnings (a+b)(Gains) losses onformer bank 392 540 635 932 509 premises andequipment(Gains) losses on 11 50 (95 ) 66 (120 ) sale of securitiesAcquisition-related 145 94 1,206 249 8,991 expenses (2)Stock optionexercises - - - - 71 (founder's grants)Occupancy and bankpremises - 211 938 - 1,499 - hurricane repairCore pre-tax,pre-provision $ 14,834 $ 25,827 $ 15,944 $ 59,447 $ 38,139 earnings Average Diluted 20,513,838 20,827,786 20,704,444 20,692,344 17,409,821 Shares Outstanding Diluted Earnings Per Share:Diluted earnings $ 0.50 $ 0.84 $ 0.46 $ 1.94 $ 0.93 per share(Gains) losses onformer bankpremises and 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.04 0.02 equipment , net oftax(Gains) losses onsale of securities, 0.00 0.00 (0.00 ) 0.00 (0.01 ) net of taxAcquisition-relatedexpenses (2), net 0.01 0.00 0.05 0.01 0.43 of taxStock optionexercises - - - - (0.03 ) (founder's grants)Occupancy and bankpremises - 0.01 0.04 - 0.06 - hurricane repair,net of taxCore diluted $ 0.53 $ 0.90 $ 0.53 $ 2.05 $ 1.34 earnings per share Pre-tax,pre-provision $ 0.69 $ 1.16 $ 0.69 $ 2.74 $ 1.65 profit dilutedearnings per share(Gains) losses onformer bank 0.01 0.03 0.03 0.05 0.03 premises andequipment(Gains) losses on 0.00 0.00 (0.01 ) 0.00 (0.01 ) sale of securitiesAcquisition-related 0.01 0.00 0.06 0.01 0.52 expenses (2)Stock optionexercises - - - - 0.00 (founder's grants)Occupancy and bankpremises - 0.01 0.05 - 0.07 - hurricane repairCore pre-tax,pre-provision $ 0.72 $ 1.24 $ 0.77 $ 2.87 $ 2.19 diluted earningsper share (1) Tax rates, exclusive of certain nondeductible merger-related expenses and goodwill, utilized were 21% for 2021 and 2020. These rates approximatedthe marginal tax rates.(2) Includes merger and conversion-related expenses and salary and employee benefits.

Business First Bancshares, Inc. Non-GAAP Measures (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, June 30, September 30, September 30, September 30, (Dollars inthousands, except 2021 2021 2020 2021 2020 per share data) Total Quarterly/Year-to-Date $ 4,353,885 $ 4,399,911 $ 3,933,631 $ 4,343,407 $ 3,224,940 Average AssetsTotal Quarterly/Year-to-Date $ 435,400 $ 420,640 $ 390,209 $ 423,977 $ 341,904 Average Equity Net Income: Net income $ 10,311 $ 17,428 $ 9,609 $ 40,068 $ 16,160 (Gains) losses onformer bankpremises and 310 427 502 737 402 equipment , net oftax(Gains) losses onsale of securities, 9 39 (75 ) 52 (95 ) net of taxAcquisition-relatedexpenses (2), net 121 74 965 203 7,384 of taxStock optionexercises, net of - - - - (530 ) tax (founder'sgrants)Occupancy and bankpremises - 167 741 - 1,185 - hurricane repair,net of taxCore net income $ 10,918 $ 18,709 $ 11,001 $ 42,245 $ 23,321 Return on average 0.95 % 1.58 % 0.98 % 1.23 % 0.67 % assetsCore return on 1.00 % 1.70 % 1.12 % 1.30 % 0.96 % average assetsReturn on equity 9.47 % 16.57 % 9.85 % 12.60 % 6.30 % Core return on 10.03 % 17.79 % 11.28 % 13.29 % 9.09 % average equity Interest Income: Interest income $ 41,534 $ 42,351 $ 42,461 $ 128,147 $ 105,368 Core interest 41,534 42,351 42,461 128,147 105,368 incomeInterest Expense: Interest expense 4,240 4,406 5,529 12,607 17,306 Core interest 4,240 4,406 5,529 12,607 17,306 expenseOther Income: Other income 6,348 17,376 4,217 28,807 12,017 (Gains) losses onformer bank 392 540 635 932 509 premises andequipment(Gains) losses on 11 50 (95 ) 66 (120 ) sale of securitiesCore other income 6,751 17,966 4,757 29,805 12,406 Other Expense: Other expense 29,567 31,116 26,951 87,646 71,391 Acquisition-related (145 ) (94 ) (1,206 ) (249 ) (8,991 ) expensesStock optionexercises - excess - - - - (71 ) taxes (founder'sgrants)Occupancy and bankpremises - (211 ) (938 ) - (1,499 ) - hurricane repairCore other expense $ 29,211 $ 30,084 $ 25,745 $ 85,898 $ 62,329 Efficiency Ratio: Other expense (a) $ 29,567 $ 31,116 $ 26,951 $ 87,646 $ 71,391 Core other expense $ 29,211 $ 30,084 $ 25,745 $ 85,898 $ 62,329 (c)Net interest andother income (1) $ 43,653 $ 55,371 $ 41,054 $ 144,413 $ 99,959 (b)Core net interestand other income $ 44,045 $ 55,911 $ 41,689 $ 145,345 $ 100,468 (1) (d)Efficiency ratio (a 67.73 % 56.20 % 65.65 % 60.69 % 71.42 % /b)Core efficiency 66.32 % 53.81 % 61.75 % 59.10 % 62.04 % ratio (c/d) Total AverageInterest-Earnings $ 4,016,063 $ 3,920,569 $ 3,636,383 $ 3,915,984 $ 2,956,047 Assets Net Interest Income:Net interest income $ 37,294 $ 37,945 $ 36,932 $ 115,540 $ 88,062 Loan discount (1,511 ) (1,617 ) (2,270 ) (6,191 ) (4,025 ) accretionNet interest incomeexcluding loan $ 35,783 $ 36,328 $ 34,662 $ 109,349 $ 84,037 discount accretion Net interest margin 3.71 % 3.87 % 4.06 % 3.93 % 3.97 % (2)Net interest marginexcluding loan 3.56 % 3.71 % 3.81 % 3.72 % 3.79 % discount accretion(2)Net interest spread 3.51 % 3.68 % 3.81 % 3.75 % 3.66 % Net interest spreadexcluding loan 3.36 % 3.52 % 3.56 % 3.53 % 3.48 % discount accretion (1) Excludes gains/losses on sales of securities.(2) Calculatedutilizing a 30/360 day countconvention.

Business First Bancshares, Inc. Non-GAAP Measures (Unaudited) September 30, June 30, September 30, (Dollars in thousands, 2021 2021 2020 except per share data) Total Shareholders' (Common) Equity:Total shareholders' $ 430,221 $ 431,006 $ 398,086 equityGoodwill (60,062 ) (60,062 ) (53,627 ) Core deposit and customer (12,835 ) (13,271 ) (10,061 ) intangibleTotal tangible common $ 357,324 $ 357,673 $ 334,398 equity Total Assets: Total assets $ 4,405,217 $ 4,323,959 $ 3,954,670 Goodwill (60,062 ) (60,062 ) (53,627 ) Core deposit and customer (12,835 ) (13,271 ) (10,061 ) intangibleTotal tangible assets $ 4,332,320 $ 4,250,626 $ 3,890,982 Common shares outstanding 20,383,504 20,740,759 20,667,237 Book value per common $ 21.11 $ 20.78 $ 19.26 shareTangible book value per $ 17.53 $ 17.24 $ 16.18 common shareCommon equity to total 9.77 % 9.97 % 10.07 % assetsTangible common equity to 8.25 % 8.41 % 8.59 % tangible assets

Misty Albrechtb1BANK225.286.7879Misty.Albrecht@b1BANK.com