Comprehensive Analysis of BankFinancial: Key Dividend and Recent Developments Before Ex-Dividend Date on Aug 15, 2025

BankFinancial (BFIN) has announced its latest cash dividend of $0.100 per share, with the ex-dividend date set for Aug 15, 2025, and the dividend payment scheduled for Aug 29, 2025. This dividend is notably higher than the average of the past ten dividends, which stands at approximately $0.069. The announcement came on Aug 4, 2025, following the last dividend issued on May 23, 2025, which was also $0.100 per share, continuing the trend of cash dividends.

Recently, significant developments have surrounded BankFinancial, drawing considerable attention from the market. Over the past week, it has been reported that First Financial Bancorp has agreed to acquire BankFinancial in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $142 million, based on First Financial's stock price as of Aug 8, 2025. This merger, unanimously approved by both companies' boards, is anticipated to be finalized in the fourth quarter, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Upon completion, BankFinancial’s services, including consumer banking and wealth management, will be integrated into First Financial, and all BankFinancial employees will transition to become associates of First Financial.

Additionally, as of late, there have been investigations into the fairness and legality of this acquisition. Legal firms are examining whether the transaction aligns with the best interests of BankFinancial's shareholders and whether any breaches of fiduciary duties occurred. This scrutiny underscores the importance of transparency and regulatory compliance in significant corporate transactions.

In the backdrop of these corporate maneuvers, BankFinancial's operations and market performance remain under the microscope, with analysts closely monitoring potential impacts on its financial health and strategic direction. This is a critical time for the company as it navigates these transformative changes.

In conclusion, BankFinancial's current dividend is a significant increase compared to its recent history, and the company's strategic moves are likely to influence its future trajectory. Investors should note that Aug 15, 2025, is the ex-dividend date, marking the last opportunity to purchase shares and qualify for the upcoming dividend, as acquisitions made after this date will not be eligible.