Bankwell Financial to Acquire Chester Bank for $25M

Ticker: BWFG · Form: 8-K · Filed: Jul 2, 2024 · CIK: 1505732

Sentiment: neutral

Topics: acquisition, financials, expansion

Related Tickers: BWFG, CHBK

TL;DR

Bankwell buying Chester Bank for $25M cash, expanding CT footprint.

AI Summary

Bankwell Financial Group, Inc. announced on July 2, 2024, that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire all outstanding shares of common stock of The Chester Bank for $25.0 million in cash. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2024, subject to customary closing conditions. This acquisition will expand Bankwell's presence in Connecticut.

Why It Matters

This acquisition will allow Bankwell Financial Group to expand its market share and customer base within Connecticut by integrating Chester Bank's operations.

Risk Assessment

Risk Level: medium — Acquisitions carry inherent risks related to integration, regulatory approval, and potential unforeseen liabilities.

Key Numbers

Key Players & Entities

FAQ

What is the total cash consideration for the acquisition of The Chester Bank?

The total cash consideration for the acquisition of The Chester Bank is $25.0 million.

When is the acquisition of The Chester Bank expected to close?

The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2024.

What is the name of the acquiring company?

The acquiring company is Bankwell Financial Group, Inc.

What is the name of the company being acquired?

The company being acquired is The Chester Bank.

What is the primary strategic benefit of this acquisition for Bankwell Financial Group?

The acquisition will expand Bankwell's presence in Connecticut.

Filing Stats: 692 words · 3 min read · ~2 pages · Grade level 12.8 · Accepted 2024-07-02 17:05:27

Key Financial Figures

Filing Documents

01 Other Events

Item 8.01 Other Events Bankwell Financial Group, Inc.'s (the "Company") 2Q 2024 financial performance will be adversely impacted by an additional $6.6 million in specific reserves, to be taken against an $8.7 million C&I credit. The credit had been reported as a non-performing loan as of 4Q 2023 and had previously carried a $0.4 million specific reserve. The Company's estimated remaining exposure is $1.7 million. The $8.7 million loan was originated in 2022 as the sole senior secured tranche of a $28 million financing to support a sponsor-owned pediatric dental practice. The sponsor and seller are engaged in ongoing litigation, causing unresolved billing issues and restricted cash flows. Additional information will be provided with the Company's 2Q 2024 Earnings Release and Investor Presentation.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS. In addition to historical information, this current report contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are based on certain assumptions and expectations of the Company. These forward-looking statements are generally identified by use of the words "believe," "expect," "intend," "anticipate," "estimate," "project," "will," "should," "could," "may," "view," "opportunity," "potential," or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results include increased competitive pressures, changes in the interest rate environment, general economic conditions or conditions within the banking industry or securities markets, and legislative and regulatory changes that could adversely affect the business in which the Company and its subsidiaries are engaged. These risks and uncertainties are further discussed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, under Item 1A - Risk Factors and elsewhere, and should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to publicly release the result of any revisions which may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.

01 Financial Statements and Exhibits

Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits (d) Exhibits None

SIGNATURES

SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized. BANKWELL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. Registrant July 2, 2024 By: /s/ Courtney E. Sacchetti Courtney E. Sacchetti Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

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