In a blockbuster deal set to reshape the American banking landscape, Huntington Bancshares has announced it will acquire Cadence Bank in a $7.4 billion all-stock transaction. This merger, one of the largest in recent years, positions the combined entity among the top 10 U.S. banks by assets and signals a new era of regional banking consolidation.
A Game-Changing Merger for the Sun Belt and Beyond
Huntington’s acquisition of Cadence Bank isn’t just about size—it’s about strategic expansion. The deal gives Huntington a powerful foothold in the fast-growing Southern U.S. markets, especially the Sun Belt, where population and business growth have outpaced much of the country. The combined bank will boast a staggering
$276 billion in assets and
$220 billion in deposits, with a presence in 21 states and access to 12 of the top 25 U.S. metropolitan areas—including six of the fastest-growing cities in America.
Cadence shareholders will receive 2.475 Huntington shares for each Cadence share, valuing Cadence at
$39.77 per share—a
9% premium over its recent trading price. The merger is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals, with full systems integration targeted for the second quarter.
Why This Deal Matters
Steve Steinour, Huntington’s Chairman, President, and CEO, called the move “an important next phase of growth,” emphasizing the bank’s ambition to become the leading people-first, customer-centered bank in the country. By absorbing Cadence’s extensive branch network and local relationships, Huntington aims to ensure a seamless transition for customers and employees, while leveraging Cadence’s strengths in commercial lending, small business banking, and wealth management.
The merger is projected to deliver
10% earnings per share (EPS) growth by 2027 and generate
$365 million in pre-tax cost savings, thanks to operational efficiencies and scale. Huntington’s recent acquisition of Veritex Community Bank, combined with Cadence’s footprint, will make it a top player in Texas—ranking fifth in deposit market share in Dallas and Houston, and eighth statewide.
The Bigger Picture: Regional Bank Consolidation Accelerates
This deal is emblematic of a broader trend: regional banks are joining forces to survive and thrive amid rising technology costs, tougher regulatory requirements, and shifting customer expectations. By pooling resources, Huntington and Cadence can invest more aggressively in digital banking, cybersecurity, and innovative financial products—areas where scale is increasingly critical.
For Cadence Bank, which reported strong Q3 2025 earnings but faces the same headwinds as its peers, the merger offers a path to greater stability and growth. The bank’s board recently declared a quarterly dividend, underscoring its ongoing commitment to shareholders even as it prepares for this major transition.
What’s Next for Customers and Investors?
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Customers: Expect continuity in service, with Cadence branches and teams transitioning to the Huntington brand after integration is complete in mid-2026. Huntington has pledged to retain local relationships and minimize disruption.
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Investors: The deal offers a premium for Cadence shareholders and the promise of long-term growth for Huntington investors, though there will be a short-term reduction in tangible book value per share as the banks integrate.
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Industry: Watch for more regional bank mergers as the sector adapts to a rapidly changing financial landscape.
Takeaways and Future Implications
This acquisition is more than a headline—it’s a signal that the U.S. banking sector is entering a new phase of consolidation and competition. As Huntington and Cadence join forces, expect to see more banks following suit, especially in high-growth regions where scale and innovation are key to survival.
For customers, the promise is better technology, broader services, and a stronger, more resilient bank. For the industry, it’s a wake-up call: adapt, merge, or risk being left behind.
Sources
1. Huntington Bancshares to acquire Cadence Bank in $7.4 billion deal
2. CADE | Cadence Bank Stock Data, Price & News
3. Huntington Bancshares Incorporated to Acquire Cadence Bank
4. Huntington Bancshares Incorporated to Acquire Cadence ...
5. News - Cadence Bank Investor Relations
6. Earnings call transcript: Cadence Bancorp beats Q3 2025 ...
7. Cadence Bank Declares Quarterly Common and Preferred Dividends
