First Citizens BancShares Gains 1.14% Despite 50.76% Volume Drop to 0.26 Billion Ranking 403rd in Market Activity as Insider Trust Transactions Reveal Complex Ownership Structures

On August 11, 2025, First Citizens BancShares Inc. (FCNCA) rose 1.14% despite a 50.76% drop in trading volume to $0.26 billion, ranking 403rd in market activity. Recent filings revealed significant insider transactions involving Class A and Class B shares through trusts and affiliated entities.

Bryant Hope Holding reported the disposition of 108,725 Class A shares and 17 Class B shares via indirect holdings in trusts and affiliated companies, including Southern BancShares and Fidelity BancShares. The filing included disclaimers stating no beneficial ownership beyond pecuniary interest. This transaction occurred on August 7 and was submitted on August 11.

Frank B. Holding Jr., FCNCA’s chairman and CEO, disclosed purchases of 150, 150, and 300 Class B shares at $1,700–$1,697.50 each, linked to 2025 GRATs and custodial accounts. Separately, he reported the disposition of 202,477 Class A shares, alongside indirect holdings in Class A and Class B shares held by trusts and family beneficiaries. The filing emphasized no admission of beneficial ownership.

The filings highlight complex ownership structures and estate planning activities, with concentrated holdings in affiliated entities. While transactional details are transparent, the absence of contextual explanations leaves the strategic intent—such as liquidity needs or estate management—unclear. Investors may assess these moves for signals on corporate governance and insider confidence.

The strategy of purchasing the top 500 stocks by daily trading volume and holding for one day returned 166.71% from 2022 to the present, outperforming the benchmark by 137.53%. This underscores the impact of liquidity concentration on short-term performance, particularly in volatile markets.