Mission Statement, Vision, & Core Values of Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST)

Are you curious about what drives a successful financial institution? Have you ever wondered what principles guide their decisions and shape their culture? For Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST), a bank holding company with approximately $4.1 billion in assets as of April 2025, the answers lie in their mission statement, vision, and core values. But how do these guiding principles translate into tangible results, such as the $5.6 million net income reported in the fourth quarter of 2024, or the growth in book value to $40.47?

Understanding these foundational elements provides insight into how Southern First operates and how they aim to impact the communities they serve. Ready to delve deeper into the mission, vision, and core values that define Southern First Bancshares?

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST) An Overview of

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST) operates as the holding company for Southern First Bank, a financial institution offering a range of services including commercial and retail banking, mortgage services, and trust and wealth management. Founded with a focus on community banking, Southern First has expanded its presence and services to meet the evolving needs of its customers. As of April 2025, Southern First continues to serve individuals, small businesses, and larger corporations across the Southeast.

In the most recent financial reports, Southern First Bancshares showcased a resilient performance amidst a dynamic economic landscape. While specific figures for April 2025 are not yet available, insights from the 2024 fiscal year provide a comprehensive understanding of the company's financial health. The bank reported solid growth in its loan portfolio, driven primarily by its commercial lending segment, which saw an increase of 8% year-over-year. This growth is attributed to Southern First's strategic focus on relationship banking and its deep understanding of the local markets it serves.

Furthermore, Southern First's wealth management division experienced substantial gains, with assets under management (AUM) increasing by 12%, reflecting the bank's ability to attract and retain high-value clients. Despite facing headwinds from rising interest rates and increased competition, Southern First maintained a healthy net interest margin (NIM) of 3.5%, demonstrating effective asset-liability management. The bank's commitment to operational efficiency is evident in its expense management, with a slight decrease in non-interest expenses as a percentage of average assets.

Southern First Bancshares stands out as a leading company in the Southeast banking sector due to its customer-centric approach, strong financial performance, and commitment to community development. The bank's success can be attributed to several key factors:

• Relationship Banking Model: Southern First prioritizes building long-term relationships with its clients, offering personalized financial solutions tailored to their specific needs.
• Strategic Market Focus: The bank concentrates its operations in high-growth markets within the Southeast, allowing it to capitalize on favorable demographic and economic trends.
• Diversified Revenue Streams: Southern First generates revenue from a variety of sources, including commercial and retail banking, mortgage services, and wealth management, which reduces its reliance on any single line of business.
• Strong Credit Quality: The bank maintains a conservative credit culture, resulting in low levels of non-performing assets and a high-quality loan portfolio.

To delve deeper into Southern First Bancshares, Inc. and understand the factors driving its success, explore: Exploring Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST) Investor Profile: Who’s Buying and Why?

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST) Mission Statement

The mission statement of Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST) is to impact lives in the communities it serves. As a financial institution, SFST focuses on providing financial solutions while emphasizing community involvement and customer service. The company's mission is reflected in its approach to banking, aiming to build lasting relationships and contribute positively to the economic well-being of its operational areas.

The core components of Southern First Bancshares, Inc.'s mission statement are:

• Community Focus: SFST is dedicated to supporting and improving the communities it serves.
• Customer Relationships: Building strong, lasting relationships with customers is a priority.
• Financial Solutions: Offering a range of financial products and services to meet diverse needs.

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. strives to create a positive influence through its banking practices, combining financial expertise with a commitment to the prosperity of the regions it serves.

Here's an in-depth look at the core components of Southern First Bancshares, Inc.'s mission statement:

Community Focus

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. demonstrates its community focus through various initiatives and support programs aimed at local development. This commitment goes beyond simply providing banking services; it involves active participation in community events, support for local businesses, and investment in projects that enhance the quality of life for residents. The bank's dedication to community development is a cornerstone of its mission, reflecting a deep understanding of the interconnectedness between its success and the well-being of the areas it serves.

Examples of community-focused activities may include:

• Sponsoring local events and initiatives.
• Providing financial literacy programs.
• Supporting local non-profits and charities.
• Investing in affordable housing and community development projects.

Customer Relationships

Building strong, lasting relationships with customers is a key priority for Southern First Bancshares, Inc. This involves providing personalized service, understanding individual customer needs, and offering tailored financial solutions. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and loyalty, the bank aims to create a positive and supportive banking experience. This approach fosters trust and long-term partnerships, which are essential for sustainable growth and success.

Key aspects of customer relationship building include:

• Providing personalized banking services.
• Offering tailored financial advice and solutions.
• Ensuring excellent customer service and support.
• Building trust and long-term relationships.

Financial Solutions

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. offers a comprehensive range of financial products and services to meet the diverse needs of its customers. This includes checking and savings accounts, loans, mortgages, and investment services. By providing accessible and reliable financial solutions, the bank empowers individuals and businesses to achieve their financial goals and contribute to the economic vitality of the community. The bank's commitment to innovation and customer-centricity ensures that it remains responsive to evolving market demands and customer expectations.

Examples of financial solutions offered:

• Checking and savings accounts.
• Loans for personal and business needs.
• Mortgage products for homeownership.
• Investment and wealth management services.

For insights into the financial health of Southern First Bancshares, Inc., check out: Breaking Down Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST) Financial Health: Key Insights for Investors

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST) Vision Statement of

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST) operates with a clear vision and mission, underpinned by a set of core values that guide its operations and strategic decisions. Understanding these elements provides insight into the bank's goals, its approach to achieving them, and the principles that define its corporate culture. You can explore more about Southern First's background and mission at Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST): History, Ownership, Mission, How It Works & Makes Money.

Southern First’s vision is to be the most respected bank in the Southeast. This overarching goal influences every aspect of the bank's operations, from customer service to financial performance.

The mission of Southern First is to impact the lives of their teammates, clients, and communities positively. This mission drives their daily activities and long-term strategies.

Southern First operates under a set of core values that shape its corporate culture and guide its interactions with stakeholders. These values include:

• Relationships: Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, teammates, and the community.
• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all actions and decisions.
• Service: Providing exceptional service and striving to exceed expectations.
• Teamwork: Working collaboratively to achieve common goals.
• Excellence: Pursuing continuous improvement and delivering high-quality results.

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. reported strong financial results for the fiscal year 2024. The bank's strategic focus on organic growth, credit quality, and efficiency has contributed to its success. Key highlights from 2024 include:

• Total assets reached $4.5 billion.
• Total loans amounted to $3.6 billion.
• Total deposits stood at $3.8 billion.

These figures reflect Southern First's robust financial health and its ability to grow its business while maintaining a strong balance sheet.

Southern First actively engages in community development and support initiatives. This commitment aligns with its mission to positively impact the communities it serves. The bank’s efforts include:

• Supporting local non-profits through financial contributions and volunteer work.
• Providing financial literacy programs to help individuals and businesses make informed decisions.
• Investing in affordable housing and community revitalization projects.

These activities demonstrate Southern First’s dedication to being a responsible corporate citizen and contributing to the well-being of its communities.

Southern First continues to pursue strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing its market position and delivering long-term value to shareholders. These initiatives include:

• Expanding its presence in high-growth markets across the Southeast.
• Investing in technology to improve the customer experience and streamline operations.
• Developing new products and services to meet the evolving needs of its clients.

The bank’s leadership team is focused on executing these strategies and building on its track record of success. As of April 2025, Southern First is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory and achieve its vision of being the most respected bank in the Southeast.

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST) Core Values of

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST) operates with a clearly defined mission, vision, and a set of core values that guide its operations and strategic decisions. These elements reflect the bank's commitment to its customers, employees, and the communities it serves. Understanding these guiding principles provides insight into the bank's culture and long-term goals. For more in-depth information, consider exploring: Exploring Southern First Bancshares, Inc. (SFST) Investor Profile: Who’s Buying and Why?

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. emphasizes several core values that shape its corporate culture and strategic objectives. These values include:

• Relationships: Prioritizing personalized service and strong connections with clients.
• Integrity: Maintaining the highest ethical standards in all interactions.
• Excellence: Striving for continuous improvement and superior performance.
• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where employees support each other.
• Community: Committing to the well-being and prosperity of the local communities.

These core values are not just statements but are integrated into the daily operations and long-term strategies of Southern First Bancshares, Inc.

Relationships

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. places a high value on building and maintaining strong relationships with its customers. This is reflected in their approach to customer service, which emphasizes personalized attention and tailored financial solutions. The bank aims to be more than just a financial institution; it strives to be a trusted partner to its clients. According to the 2024 Annual Report, Southern First has a customer retention rate of over 90%, indicating strong customer loyalty and satisfaction.

Integrity

Integrity is a cornerstone of Southern First Bancshares, Inc.'s corporate culture. The bank is committed to conducting business with the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency and trustworthiness in all its dealings. This commitment extends to its employees, customers, and shareholders. In 2024, Southern First was recognized for its ethical practices, receiving an award for corporate governance and compliance.

Excellence

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. is dedicated to achieving excellence in all aspects of its operations. This includes providing innovative financial products, delivering exceptional customer service, and maintaining strong financial performance. The bank invests in employee training and development to ensure its staff is equipped to meet the evolving needs of its customers. As of the end of fiscal year 2024, Southern First reported a return on assets (ROA) of 1.2%, demonstrating its commitment to financial excellence.

Teamwork

Teamwork is essential to Southern First Bancshares, Inc.'s success. The bank fosters a collaborative environment where employees are encouraged to work together to achieve common goals. This teamwork extends across departments and levels of the organization, creating a supportive and inclusive workplace. In a 2024 employee survey, 85% of respondents said they felt valued as part of a team at Southern First.

Community

Southern First Bancshares, Inc. is deeply committed to the communities it serves. The bank actively supports local organizations and initiatives through charitable giving, volunteer work, and community development programs. This commitment reflects its belief in giving back and helping to build stronger, more vibrant communities. In 2024, Southern First contributed over $500,000 to various community projects, supporting education, affordable housing, and economic development.