First Financial Bancorp shares rise 2.29% intraday after acquiring BankFinancial in a $142 million all-stock deal.

First Financial Bancorp rose 2.29% intraday, with the company announcing its acquisition of BankFinancial Corporation in a $142 million all-stock deal. This strategic move expands First Financial's presence in the Chicago market, adding 18 retail locations and enhancing its commercial banking capabilities. The acquisition is expected to increase total pro forma deposits to $2.2 billion, with all BankFinancial employees becoming First Financial associates upon closing.