# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0001004702
**File Stem:** 0001004702-26-000015
**Filing Date:** 2026-2
**Character Count:** 591134
**Document Hash:** 2dfe33a7469a4d93661f8d1fc7a10a1d
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001004702-26-000015.hdr.sgml**: 20260227

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001004702-26-000015

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: 10-K

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 137

**CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT**: 20251231

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20260227

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20260227

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** OCEANFIRST FINANCIAL CORP
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001004702
- **STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:** NATIONAL COMMERCIAL BANKS [6021]
- **ORGANIZATION NAME:** 02 Finance
- **EIN:** 223412577
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** DE
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 1231

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 10-K
- **SEC ACT:** 1934 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 001-11713
- **FILM NUMBER:** 26700490

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 975 HOOPER AVE
- **CITY:** TOMS RIVER
- **STATE:** NJ
- **ZIP:** 08753-8396
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 7322404500

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 975 HOOPER AVENUE
- **CITY:** TOMS RIVER
- **STATE:** NJ
- **ZIP:** 08723

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** OCEAN FINANCIAL CORP
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 19951208

?xml version='1.0' encoding='ASCII'? ocfc-20251231

**UNITED STATES**

**SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION**

**Washington, DC 20549**

**FORM 10-K** 

☒ **ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934**

**For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025**

☐ **TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934**

**For the transition period from <u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u> to <u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>.**

**Commission file number: 001-11713** 

**OceanFirst Financial Corp.** 

**(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Delaware** | **22-3412577** |
| **(State or other jurisdiction of<br>incorporation or organization)** | **(I.R.S. Employer<br>Identification No.)** |

---

**110 West Front Street, Red Bank, New Jersey 07701** 

**(Address of principal executive offices)**

**Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (732) 240-4500** 

**Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:**

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Title of each class** | **Trading symbol** | **Name of each exchange in which registered** |
| Common stock, $0.01 par value per share | OCFC | NASDAQ |

---

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes ⌧&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No ◻.

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes ◻&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No ⌧.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes ⌧ No ◻.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes ⌧&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No ◻

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer", "accelerated filer", "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer ⌧ Accelerated filer ☐ Non-accelerated filer ☐ Smaller reporting company ☐ Emerging growth company ☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised final accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;□

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management's assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒

If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant's executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes ☐&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No ☒.

The aggregate market fair value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the registrant, i.e., persons other than the directors and executive officers of the registrant, was $977,631,160 based upon the closing price of such common equity as of the last business day of the registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter.

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant's Common Stock as of February 19, 2026 was 57,402,016.

**DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE**

**Portions of the Proxy Statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days from December 31, 2025, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.**

------

**INDEX**

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | | **PAGE** |
| **PART I** | **PART I** | **PART I** |
| Item 1. | <u>[Business](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_13)</u> | <u>[5](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_13)</u> |
| Item 1A. | <u>[Risk Factors](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_64)</u> | <u>[31](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_64)</u> |
| Item 1B. | <u>[Unresolved Staff Comments](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_76)</u> | <u>[49](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_76)</u> |
| Item 1C. | <u>[Cybersecurity](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_79)</u> | <u>[50](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_79)</u> |
| Item 2. | <u>[Properties](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_82)</u> | <u>[51](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_82)</u> |
| Item 3. | <u>[Legal Proceedings](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_85)</u> | <u>[51](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_85)</u> |
| Item 4. | <u>[Mine Safety Disclosures](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_88)</u> | <u>[51](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_88)</u> |
| **PART II** | **PART II** | **PART II** |
| Item 5. | <u>[Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_94)</u> | <u>[52](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_94)</u> |
| Item 6. | <u>[\[Reserved\]](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_97)</u> | <u>[53](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_97)</u> |
| Item 7. | <u>[Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_100)</u> | <u>[53](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_100)</u> |
| Item 7A. | <u>[Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_163)</u> | <u>[68](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_163)</u> |
| Item 8. | <u>[Financial Statements and Supplementary Data](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_166)</u> | <u>[70](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_166)</u> |
| Item 9. | <u>[Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_262)</u> | <u>[124](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_262)</u> |
| Item 9A. | <u>[Controls and Procedures](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_265)</u> | <u>[124](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_265)</u> |
| Item 9B. | <u>[Other Information](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_268)</u> | <u>[124](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_268)</u> |
| Item 9C. | <u>[Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_271)</u> | <u>[124](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_271)</u> |
| **PART III** | **PART III** | **PART III** |
| Item 10. | <u>[Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_277)</u> | <u>[125](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_277)</u> |
| Item 11. | <u>[Executive Compensation](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_280)</u> | <u>[125](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_280)</u> |
| Item 12. | <u>[Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_283)</u> | <u>[125](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_283)</u> |
| Item 13. | <u>[Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_286)</u> | <u>[125](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_286)</u> |
| Item 14. | <u>[Principal Accountant Fees and Services](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_289)</u> | <u>[125](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_289)</u> |
| **PART IV** | **PART IV** | **PART IV** |
| Item 15. | <u>[Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_295)</u> | <u>[126](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_295)</u> |
| Item 16. | <u>[Form 10-K Summary](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_298)</u> | <u>[129](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_298)</u> |
| <u>[Signatures](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_301)</u> | <u>[Signatures](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_301)</u> | <u>[130](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_301)</u> |

---

------

**Glossary of Defined Terms** 

The acronyms and abbreviations identified below are used throughout this report, including the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Term** | **Acronym / Defined Term** |
| Accounting Standards Update | ASU |
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | AOCI |
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | AOCL |
| Adjustable-Rate Mortgage | ARM |
| Allowance for Credit Losses | ACL |
| Asset Liability Committee | ALCO |
| Assets Under Administration and Management | AUA/M |
| Available-for-Sale | AFS |
| Bank Holding Company | BHC |
| Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 | BHC Act |
| Bank Owned Life Insurance | BOLI |
| The Board of Directors | Board |
| Central Business District | CBD |
| Change in Bank Control Act | CIBC Act |
| Chief Operating Decision Maker | CODM |
| Colonial American Bank | Colonial American |
| Commercial and Industrial | C&I |
| Commercial Real Estate | CRE |
| Community Reinvestment Act | CRA |
| Comptroller of the Currency | OCC |
| Consumer Financial Protection Bureau | CFPB |
| Current Expected Credit Loss | CECL |
| Deposit Insurance Fund | DIF |
| Discounted Cash Flow | DCF |
| Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act | EGRRCPA |
| Economic Value of Equity | EVE |
| Employee Stock Ownership Plan | ESOP |
| Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation | FDIC |
| Federal Home Loan Bank | FHLB |
| Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation | FHLMC |
| Federal National Mortgage Association | FNMA |
| Federal Reserve System | FRB |
| Financial Accounting Standards Board | FASB |
| Flushing Financial Corporation | Flushing |
| Generally Accepted Accounting Principles | GAAP |
| Government National Mortgage Association | GNMA |
| Gramm-Leach Bliley Act | GLBA |
| Held-to-Maturity | HTM |
| Home Equity Loans and Line and Other Consumer | Other consumer |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Term** | **Acronym / Defined Term** |
| Interactive Teller Machines | ITM |
| Interest Rate Risk | IRR |
| Mortgage-Backed Securities | MBS |
| Net Asset Value | NAV |
| New York City | NYC |
| New York State | NYS |
| New York State Department of Financial Services | NYDFS |
| OceanFirst Bank N.A. | Bank |
| OceanFirst Financial Corp. | Company |
| OceanFirst Foundation | Foundation |
| Other Real Estate Owned | OREO |
| Purchased with Credit Deterioration | PCD |
| Real Estate Investment Trust | REIT |
| Right of Use | ROU |
| Secured Overnight Financing Rate | SOFR |
| Securities and Exchange Commission | SEC |
| Securities Exchange Act of 1934 | Exchange Act |
| Small Business Administration | SBA |
| Spring Garden Capital Group, LLC | Spring Garden |
| Sun Bancorp, Inc. | Sun |
| Treadway Commission in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) | COSO 2013 Framework |
| Trident Abstract Title Agency, LLC | Trident |
| Troubled Debt Restructuring | TDR |
| United States Department of Housing and Urban Development | HUD |
| United States Department of Justice | DOJ |
| Variable Interest Entity | VIE |
| Warburg Pincus LLC | Warburg |

---

------

**PART I**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 1.** | **Business** |

---

**General**

OceanFirst Financial Corp. (the "Company") is incorporated under Delaware law and serves as the holding company for OceanFirst Bank N.A (the "Bank"). At December 31, 2025, the Company had consolidated total assets of $14.6 billion and total stockholders' equity of $1.7 billion. The Company is subject to regulation by the Board of Governors of the FRB and the SEC. The Bank is primarily subject to regulation and supervision by the OCC, as well as the CFPB due to the Bank exceeding $10 billion in assets. The Bank is also subject to regulation and supervision by the FDIC, as its deposit insurer. Currently, the Company transacts the vast majority of its business through the Bank, its wholly owned subsidiary.

The Bank's principal business is originating loans, consisting of commercial real estate and other commercial loans, which have become a key focus of the Bank. The Bank also invests in other types of loans, including residential construction and consumer loans. The Bank primarily funds these loans by attracting retail and commercial deposits. In addition, the Bank invests in MBS, securities issued by the U.S. Government and agencies thereof, corporate securities and other investments permitted by applicable law and regulations. The Bank's revenues are derived principally from interest on its loans, and to a lesser extent, interest on its debt and equity securities. The Bank also receives income from other products and services it offers including bankcard services, trust and fiduciary services, deposit account services, mortgage banking activity, income from bank owned life insurance and commercial loan swap income. The Bank's primary sources of funds are deposits, principal and interest payments on loans and investments, FHLB advances, and other borrowings. While scheduled payments on loans and securities are predictable sources of funds, deposit flows, loan prepayments, and loan and investment activity are greatly influenced by changes in market interest rates, competition, general economic conditions, including levels of tariffs and any retaliatory responses, unemployment and real estate values, and inflation.

The Company's website address is <u>www.oceanfirst.com</u>. The Company's annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and all amendments to those reports are available free of charge through its website, as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. The Company's website and the information contained therein or connected thereto are not intended to be incorporated into this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

**Forward-Looking Statements**

In addition to historical information, this annual report contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which are based on certain assumptions and describe future plans, strategies and expectations of the Company. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of the words such as " estimate," "plan," "project," "forecast," "intend," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "seek," "strategy," "future," "opportunity," "may," "could," "target," "should," "will," "would," "will be," "will continue," "will likely result," or similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. These statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this document, and on the current expectations of the Company's management and are not predictions of actual performance, and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict, may differ from assumptions and many are beyond the control of the Company. The forward-looking statements are intended to be subject to the safe harbor provided by Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

These forward-looking statements may include statements with respect to the proposed transaction between the Company and Flushing and the proposed investment by Warburg in the Company's equity securities.

Factors which could have a material adverse effect on the operations of the Company and its subsidiaries include, but are not limited to: changes in interest rates, inflation, general economic conditions, including potential recessionary conditions, levels of unemployment in the Company's lending area, real estate market values in the Company's lending area, potential goodwill impairment, natural disasters, potential increases to flood insurance premiums, the current or anticipated impact of military conflict, terrorism or other geopolitical events, the imposition of tariffs or other domestic or international governmental policies and retaliatory responses, the effects of a potential future federal government shutdown, the level of prepayments on loans and mortgage-backed securities, legislative/regulatory changes, monetary and fiscal policies of the U.S. Government, including

------

policies of the U.S. Treasury and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the quality or composition of the loan or investment portfolios, demand for loan products, deposit flows, the availability of low-cost funding, changes in liquidity, including the size and composition of the Company's deposit portfolio and the percentage of uninsured deposits in the portfolio, changes in capital management and balance sheet strategies and the ability to successfully implement such strategies, competition, demand for financial services in the Company's market area, our ability to enter into new markets and capitalize on growth opportunities, the adequacy of and changes in the economic assumptions and methodology for computing the allowance for credit losses, availability of capital, competition, changes in investor sentiment and consumer spending, borrowing and savings habits, changes in accounting principles, a failure in or breach of the Company's operational or security systems or infrastructure, including cyberattacks and fraud, the failure to maintain current technologies, failure to retain or attract employees, the impact of pandemics on our operations and financial results and those of our customers and the Bank's ability to successfully integrate acquired operations.

Additional forward-looking statements related to the proposed transaction with Flushing and the proposed investment by Warburg include, but are not limited to: (i) the risk that the proposed transaction may not be completed in a timely manner or at all; (ii) the failure to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the proposed transaction, including obtaining the requisite Company and Flushing stockholder approvals or the necessary regulatory approvals (and the risk that such regulatory approvals may result in the imposition of conditions that could adversely affect the combined company or the expected benefits of the transaction); (iii) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the Merger Agreement between the Company and Flushing; (iv) the inability to obtain alternative capital in the event it becomes necessary to complete the proposed transaction; (v) the effect of the announcement or pendency of the proposed transaction on Company's and Flushing's business relationships, operating results and business generally; (vi) risks that the proposed transaction disrupts current plans and operations of the Company and Flushing; (vii) potential difficulties in retaining Company and Flushing customers and employees as a result of the proposed transaction; (viii) potential litigation relating to the proposed transaction that could be instituted against the Company, Flushing or their respective directors and officers, including the effects of any outcomes related thereto; (ix) the possibility that the transaction may be more expensive to complete than anticipated, including as a result of unexpected expenses, factors or events; (x) the possibility that the anticipated benefits of the transaction are not realized when expected or at all, including as a result of the impact of, or problems arising from, the integration of the two companies or as a result of the strength of the economy and competitive factors in the areas where OceanFirst and Flushing do business; and (xi) the dilution caused by OceanFirst's issuance of additional shares of its capital stock in connection with the transaction. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements set forth above.

These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such 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.

**Market Area and Competition**

The Bank is a regional community bank offering a wide variety of financial products and services to meet the needs of customers in the communities it serves. At December 31, 2025, the Bank primarily operated its business through its headquarters located in Toms River, New Jersey, its administrative office located in Red Bank, New Jersey and 41 branch offices and various deposit production facilities located throughout central and southern New Jersey and major metropolitan areas of New York City and Philadelphia. The Bank also operates commercial loan production offices in New Jersey, New York City, the greater Philadelphia area, Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., Baltimore, Boston and Northern Virginia.

One of the largest and oldest financial institutions in New Jersey, the Bank's headquarters are centrally located between New York City and Philadelphia. The economy in the Bank's primary market area, which represents central and southern New Jersey, is driven on a mixture of service and retail trade, with other employment provided by a variety of wholesale trade, manufacturing, federal, state and local government, hospitals and utilities. The area is home to commuters working in and around New York City and Philadelphia and also includes a significant number of vacation and second homes in the communities along the New Jersey shore. In addition, the Bank provides banking services through teams located in the major metropolitan markets from Massachusetts through Virginia.

------

The Bank's future growth opportunities will be influenced by the growth and stability of its geographic marketplace and the competitive environment. The Bank faces significant competition in making loans and attracting deposits. In addition, rapid technological changes and consumer preferences will continue to result in increased competition for the Bank's digital services as several well-funded technology-focused companies are focused on developing innovations in payments, distributed ledger, and cryptocurrency networks to disintermediate portions of the traditional banking model. The states of New Jersey and Virginia and the metropolitan areas of New York City, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Boston and Washington D.C. are also attractive markets to many financial institutions. Many of the Bank's competitors are significantly larger institutions that have greater financial resources than the Bank. The Bank's competition for loans comes principally from commercial banks, savings banks, savings and loan associations, credit unions, mortgage banking companies, financial technology companies, insurance companies, private lenders, and government sponsored enterprises. Its most direct competition for deposits has historically come from commercial banks, savings banks, savings and loan associations, and credit unions. The Bank also faces competition for deposits from short-term money market funds, other corporate and government securities funds, financial technology companies, and from other financial service institutions such as brokerage firms and insurance companies. The Bank distinguishes itself from large bank competitors with teams of local financial experts in each market providing personalized accounts, extraordinary customer service and local decision-making.

**Community Involvement**

The Bank promotes efforts to enhance the quality of life in the communities it serves through employee volunteer efforts and the work of the Foundation. Employees are encouraged to help their communities and receive up to eight hours of Bank-paid volunteer time each year. The Company's employees, known as the WaveMakers when helping in the community, collectively spend thousands of hours volunteering and serving in leadership roles with local nonprofit organizations, along with participating in other activities that contribute to improving the quality of life for others. In 2025, the WaveMakers spent over 9,100 hours volunteering their time and talents with nonprofits that assist neighbors which included the Bank's annual volunteering event, held in September 2025, when over 700 employees in five states spent time assisting 23 nonprofits. The Foundation, established in 1996 during the Company's initial public offering, has granted over $51.1 million to enrich the lives of local citizens by supporting initiatives in health and human services, education, affordable housing, youth development, and the arts.

------

**Lending Activities**

<u>Loan Portfolio Composition</u>. At December 31, 2025, the Company had total loans outstanding, including $5.8 million of loans held-for-sale, of $11.04 billion, of which $5.42 billion, or 49.1% of total loans, were investor owned commercial real estate, multi-family, and construction loans (including residential development loans), collectively, "commercial real estate - investor". The remainder of the commercial portfolio consisted of commercial and industrial loans, of which $986.4 million were commercial and industrial - real estate, or 8.9% of total loans; and $1.23 billion were commercial and industrial - non-real estate loans, or 11.1% of total loans. The remainder of the loan portfolio consisted of $3.20 billion of residential real estate loans, or 29.0% of total loans; and $202.8 million of consumer loans, primarily home equity loans and lines of credit, or 1.8% of total loans. Additionally, at December 31, 2025, 43.9% of the Bank's total loans had adjustable interest rates.

In 2025, the Company adjusted the presentation of loans secured by owner-occupied commercial real estate to commercial and industrial - real estate to reflect the variation in the management and underlying risk profile of such loans as compared with investor commercial real estate loans. Similarly, the Company also adjusted the presentation of commercial and industrial loans that were not secured by real estate to commercial and industrial - non-real estate. Collectively, these two loan portfolios are referred to as "Commercial and industrial" loans. Prior year amounts have been conformed to this change in presentation.

The types of loans that the Bank may originate are subject to federal and state laws and regulations. Interest rates charged by the Bank on loans are affected by the demand for such loans and the supply of money available for lending purposes and the rates offered by competitors. These factors are, in turn, affected by, among other things, economic conditions, monetary policies of the federal government, including the FRB, and legislative and tax policies.

The following table sets forth the composition of the Bank's loan portfolio in dollar amounts and as a percentage of the portfolio at the dates indicated:

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** | **2023** | **2023** |
| | **Amount** | **Percent<br>of Total** | **Amount** | **Percent<br>of Total** | **Amount** | **Percent<br>of Total** |
| | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) |
| Commercial real estate - investor | $5420989 | 49.1% | $5287683 | 52.2% | $5353974 | 52.5% |
| Commercial and industrial: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial – real estate | 986431 | 8.9 | 902219 | 8.9 | 943891 | 9.3 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial – non-real estate | 1227556 | 11.1 | 647945 | 6.4 | 666532 | 6.5 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial | 2213987 | 20.1 | 1550164 | 15.3 | 1610423 | 15.8 |
| Residential real estate | 3200032 | 29.0 | 3070974 | 30.3 | 2984700 | 29.3 |
| Other consumer <sup>(1)</sup> | 202763 | 1.8 | 230462 | 2.3 | 250664 | 2.5 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total loans | 11037771 | 100.0% | 10139283 | 100.0% | 10199761 | 100.0% |
| Deferred origination costs (fees), net | 22389 |  | 10964 |  | 9263 |  |
| Allowance for loan credit losses | (83726) |  | (73607) |  | (67137) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loans receivable, net | 10976434 |  | 10076640 |  | 10141887 |  |
| Less: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Loans held for sale | 5768 |  | 21211 |  | 5166 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total loans receivable, net | $10970666 |  | $10055429 |  | $10136721 |  |
| Total loans: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fixed rate | $6194695 | 56.1% | $5752078 | 56.7% | $5696173 | 55.9% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Adjustable rate | 4843076 | 43.9 | 4387205 | 43.3 | 4503588 | 44.2 |
|  | $11037771 | 100.0% | $10139283 | 100.0% | $10199761 | 100.0% |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Consists primarily of home equity loans, home equity lines of credit, student loans, and, to a lesser extent, loans on savings accounts and overdraft lines of credit.

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<u>Loan Maturity</u>. The following table shows the contractual maturity of the Bank's total loans at December 31, 2025. The table does not include principal prepayments:

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** |
| | | **Commercial and Industrial** | **Commercial and Industrial** | | | |
| |<br>**Commercial Real Estate - Investor** | **Commercial and Industrial - Real Estate** | **Commercial<br>and <br>Industrial - Non-Real Estate** |<br>**Residential <br>Real Estate** |<br>**Consumer** |<br>**Total<br>Loans<br>Receivable** |
| | (in thousands) | (in thousands) | (in thousands) | (in thousands) | (in thousands) | (in thousands) |
| One year or less | $1070529 | $117842 | $210450 | $6224 | $8239 | $1413284 |
| After one year: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;More than one year to five years | 3063108 | 473753 | 831347 | 23238 | 25238 | 4416684 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;More than five years to fifteen years | 1275924 | 379801 | 165830 | 232577 | 86299 | 2140431 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;More than fifteen years | 11428 | 15035 | 19929 | 2937993 | 82987 | 3067372 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total due after December 31, 2026 | 4350460 | 868589 | 1017106 | 3193808 | 194524 | 9624487 |
| Total amount due | $5420989 | $986431 | $1227556 | $3200032 | $202763 | 11037771 |
| Deferred origination costs (fees), net |  |  |  |  |  | 22389 |
| Allowance for loan credit losses |  |  |  |  |  | (83726) |
| Loans receivable, net |  |  |  |  |  | $10976434 |
| Less: loans held-for-sale |  |  |  |  |  | 5768 |
| Total loans receivable, net |  |  |  |  |  | $10970666 |

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The following table sets forth at December 31, 2025, the dollar amount of total loans receivable, contractually due after December 31, 2026, and whether such loans have fixed or adjustable interest rates:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Due After December 31, 2026** | **Due After December 31, 2026** | **Due After December 31, 2026** |
| | **Fixed** | **Adjustable** | **Total** |
| | (in thousands) | (in thousands) | (in thousands) |
| Commercial real estate - investor | $1989336 | $2361123 | $4350459 |
| Commercial and industrial: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial – real estate | 356715 | 511874 | 868589 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial – non-real estate | 400049 | 617057 | 1017106 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial | 756764 | 1128931 | 1885695 |
| Residential real estate | 2840175 | 353633 | 3193808 |
| Consumer | 110009 | 84516 | 194525 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total loans receivable | $5696284 | $3928203 | $9624487 |

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<u>Commercial Real Estate - Investor</u>. At December 31, 2025, the Bank's total investor owned commercial real estate loans outstanding were $5.42 billion, or 49.1% of total loans, as compared to $5.29 billion, or 52.2% of total loans at December 31, 2024. The Bank originates investor owned commercial real estate loans that are secured by properties, or properties under construction, that are generally used for business purposes such as office, industrial, multi-family, or retail facilities. A substantial majority of the Bank's investor owned commercial real estate loans are located in its primary market areas.

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The following tables present the Company's commercial real estate - investor loans by industry and geography (generally based on location of collateral) as of December 31, 2025:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** |
| (dollars in thousands) | **Amount** | **Percent of total** | **Weighted Average LTV** <sup>(1)</sup> | **Weighted Average** <br>**Debt Service Coverage Ratio** <sup>(2)</sup> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Office | $496585 | 10% | 54% | 1.8x |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Medical | 305140 | 6 | 55 | 1.7 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Credit Tenant  | 256206 | 5 | 64 | 1.6 |
| Total Office <sup>(3)</sup> | 1057931 | 22 | 57 | 1.8 |
| Retail | 1121987 | 23 | 59 | 1.9 |
| Multi-family <sup>(4)</sup> | 970921 | 20 | 61 | 1.5 |
| Industrial/warehouse | 785264 | 16 | 51 | 2.1 |
| Hospitality | 177896 | 4 | 47 | 1.8 |
| Other <sup>(5)</sup> | 759363 | 16 | 45 | 1.7 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 4873362 | 100% | 55% | 1.8x |
| Construction | 547627 |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total CRE - investor | $5420989 |  |  |  |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Represented the weighted average of loan balances as of December 31, 2025 divided by their most recent appraisal value, which is generally obtained at the time of origination.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Represented the weighted average of net operating income on the property before debt service divided by the loan's respective annual debt service based on the most recent credit review of the borrower.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) CBD exposure represented $118 million, or 11.2%, of the total office loan balance at December 31, 2025. Office CBD loans had a weighted average LTV of 56% and weighted average debt service coverage ratio of 1.7x at December 31, 2025. $84 million, or 71%, of the total office CBD exposure are to credit tenants, life sciences and medical borrowers at December 31, 2025. New York City office CBD loans represented $7 million, or 0.05% of the Company's total assets at December 31, 2025.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) New York City rent-regulated multi-family loans, where the property has more than 50% of its units rent-regulated, represented $28 million, or 0.19% of the Company's total assets at December 31, 2025.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) Other includes underlying co-operatives, single purpose, stores and some living units / mixed use, investor owned 1-4 family, land / development, and other.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **CRE - Investor** | **CRE - Investor** |
| (dollars in thousands) | **Amount** | **Percent of Total** |
| New York | $1447466 | 30% |
| New Jersey | 1280871 | 26 |
| Pennsylvania and Delaware | 1379562 | 28 |
| Massachusetts | 184851 | 4 |
| Maryland and District of Columbia | 143099 | 3 |
| Other | 437513 | 9 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $4873362 | 100% |
| Construction | 547627 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total CRE - investor | $5420989 |  |

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The Bank originates investor owned commercial real estate loans with adjustable and fixed interest rates for a period that generally does not exceed ten years, and generally have an amortization schedule up to 25 years and up to 30 years for multi-family properties. As a result, the typical amortization schedule will result in a substantial principal payment upon maturity. The Bank generally underwrites investor owned commercial real estate loans to a maximum of a 65% to 80% loan-to-value ratio, depending on the asset class, against either the appraised value of the property or its purchase price (for loans to fund the acquisition of real estate), whichever is less. The Bank generally requires a minimum debt service coverage of 1.20x to 1.40x

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for investor owned real estate, depending on the asset class. There is a potential risk that the borrower may be unable to pay off or refinance the outstanding balance at the loan maturity date. The Bank typically lends in its primary markets to experienced owners or developers who have knowledge and expertise in the commercial real estate market.

The Bank performs extensive due diligence in underwriting investor owned commercial real estate loans due to the larger loan amounts and the riskier nature of such loans. The Bank assesses and mitigates the risk in several ways, including inspection of all such properties and the review of the overall financial condition of the borrower and guarantors, which include, for example, the review of the rent rolls and applicable leases/lease terms and conditions and the verification of income. A tenant analysis and market analysis are part of the underwriting.

Depending on the size of the relationship, financial statements are also required annually for review. For investor owned commercial real estate loans, rent rolls are also required annually in addition to financial statements. Generally, investor owned commercial real estate loans are supported by full or partial personal guarantees by the principals.

For investor owned commercial real estate loans in excess of $750,000, the Bank generally requires environmental professionals to inspect the property and ascertain any potential environmental risks. In accordance with regulatory guidelines, the Bank requires a full independent appraisal for commercial real estate properties for loans in excess of $500,000. The appraiser must be selected from the Bank's approved appraiser list. The Bank generally uses an independent third party to review all applicable property appraisals to ensure compliance with regulations.

The Bank also originates multi-family mortgage loans. The same underwriting standards and procedures that are used to underwrite investor owned commercial real estate loans are used to underwrite multi-family loans, except the loan-to-value ratio generally does not exceed 75% of the appraised value of the property, the debt-service coverage is generally a minimum of 1.20x and an amortization period of up to 30 years may be used.

Additionally, the Bank offers an interest rate swap program that allows commercial loan customers to effectively convert an adjustable-rate commercial loan agreement to a fixed-rate commercial loan agreement. The Bank simultaneously sells an offsetting swap to an investment-grade national bank so that it does not retain this fixed-rate risk. As of December 31, 2025, these back-to-back swaps had a notional amount of $1.54 billion.

The investor owned commercial real estate portfolio also includes loans for the construction of commercial properties. The Bank generally underwrites construction loans for a term of three years or less. The majority of the Bank's construction loans are adjustable-rate loans with a maximum 75% loan-to-value ratio for the completed project and a minimum debt-service coverage of 1.0x during the construction period to ensure there is a sufficient reserve to cover interest payments. The expectation is that the underlying project when complete will produce a debt service coverage ratio that is consistent with the policy for completed income producing projects. Additionally, at the time of initial analysis, the Bank generally underwrites construction loans at a higher interest rate than current market rates. The Bank may commit to provide permanent mortgage financing on its construction loans on income-producing properties. Risk of loss on a construction loan depends largely upon whether the initial estimate of the property's value at completion of construction equals or exceeds the cost of the property construction (including interest). During the construction phase, a number of factors can result in delays and cost overruns. If estimates of value are inaccurate or if actual construction costs exceed estimates, the value of the property securing the loan may be insufficient to ensure full repayment when completed. The Bank generally mitigates these risks by (i) requiring an independent appraisal, which includes information on market rents and/or comparable sales for competing projects; (ii) making advances on construction loans in accordance with a schedule reflecting the cost of the improvements and performing site inspections to determine if the work has been completed prior to the advancement of funds for the project; and (iii) pre-sale or pre-leasing requirements and phasing of construction.

Investor owned commercial real estate loans are among the largest of the Bank's loans and may have higher credit risk and lending spreads. Because repayment is often dependent on the successful management of the properties, repayment of commercial real estate loans may be affected by adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy, as a result, the Bank is particularly vigilant of this portfolio. The Bank believes this portfolio is highly diversified with loans secured by a variety of property types and the portfolio has historically exhibited stable credit quality.

<u>Commercial and Industrial</u>. As of December 31, 2025, commercial and industrial – real estate loans totaled $986.4 million, or 8.9% of the total loans, as compared to $902.2 million, or 8.9% of total loans, at December 31, 2024. A substantial majority of the Bank's commercial and industrial – real estate loans are located in its primary market areas.

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The following tables present total commercial and industrial – real estate loans by industry and geography (based on location of collateral) as of December 31, 2025:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Commercial and Industrial – Real Estate** | **Commercial and Industrial – Real Estate** |
| (dollars in thousands) | **Amount** | **Percent of Total** |
| Office | $124816 | 13% |
| Retail | 160011 | 16 |
| Industrial/warehouse | 262387 | 27 |
| Hospitality | 60673 | 6 |
| Multi-family | 2749 |  |
| Other <sup>(1)</sup> | 375795 | 38 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $986431 | 100% |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Includes underlying single purpose, mixed use, and other.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Commercial and Industrial – Real Estate** | **Commercial and Industrial – Real Estate** |
| (dollars in thousands) | **Amount** | **Percent of Total** |
| New Jersey | $386381 | 39% |
| New York | 185019 | 19 |
| Pennsylvania and Delaware | 262636 | 27 |
| Maryland and District of Columbia | 24548 | 2 |
| Massachusetts | 11272 | 1 |
| Other | 116575 | 12 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $986431 | 100% |

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A commercial and industrial – real estate property is defined as real estate used by a business for its operations. To be considered commercial and industrial – real estate, the underlying business must either occupy 51% of the building's total square footage or pay 51% of the total market rate rental income derived from the property. Given that the repayment is generally dependent on the ongoing operations of the underlying business with similar risk of a commercial and industrial – non-real estate loan, the Bank reviews and analyzes the financial history and capacity of the operating business in addition to the real estate collateral value. The Bank generally requires the corporate guarantee of the operating business, if not a direct borrower.

The Bank primarily underwrites commercial and industrial – real estate loans to a maximum of 70% to 80% loan-to-value ratio, depending on the property type, against either the appraised value of the property or its purchase price (for loans to fund the acquisition of real estate), whichever is less. The Bank generally requires a minimum debt service coverage of 1.25x to 1.40x for commercial and industrial – real estate, depending on the property type. There is a potential risk that the borrower may be unable to pay off or refinance the outstanding balance at the loan maturity date.

For commercial and industrial – real estate loans in excess of $750,000, the Bank generally requires environmental professionals to inspect the property and ascertain any potential environmental risks. In accordance with regulatory guidelines, the Bank requires a full independent appraisal for commercial real estate properties for loans in excess of $500,000. The appraiser must be selected from the Bank's approved appraiser list. The Bank generally uses an independent third party to review all applicable property appraisals to ensure compliance with regulations.

At December 31, 2025, commercial and industrial – non-real estate loans totaled $1.23 billion, or 11.1% of the Bank's total loans outstanding, compared to $647.9 million, or 6.4% of total loans, at December 31, 2024. The Bank originates commercial and industrial – non-real estate loans and lines of credit (including for working capital, fixed asset purchases, and acquisition, receivable, and inventory financing) primarily in the Bank's market areas. In certain instances, the Bank also purchases commercial and industrial – non-real estate loans through existing third-party channels. In underwriting commercial and industrial – non-real estate loans and credit lines, the Bank reviews and analyzes the financial history and capacity of the borrower, collateral value, financial strength and character of the principal borrowers, and general payment history of the principal borrowers in coming to a credit decision. The Bank generally originates commercial and industrial – non-real estate loans secured by the assets of the business including accounts receivable, inventory, equipment, and fixtures. The Bank generally requires the personal guarantee of the principal borrowers for all commercial and industrial – non-real estate loans.

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The risk of loss on a commercial and industrial – non-real estate business loan is dependent largely on the borrower's ability to repay the loan from the ongoing operations of the business. In addition, any collateral securing such loans may depreciate over time, may be difficult to appraise, and may fluctuate in value.

Typically, financial covenants are included in the loan structure which may include balance sheet leverage, cash flow leverage, liquidity requirements; debt service coverage, and/or fixed charge coverage. Requirements may differ based on loan size, industry, facility types, capital stack, and years in business.

Depending on the size of the loan and relationship, financial statements are also required annually for review of commercial and industrial loans.

<u>Total Consumer Loans</u> (residential real estate and other consumer). As of October 15, 2025, the Company discontinued its origination of residential and other consumer loans. As a result, the Company subsequently entered into a strategic partnership with a national mortgage banking company to provide a channel for customers interested in a residential mortgage (referred to as "residential outsourcing"). The Company continued to process outstanding commitments to originate residential and consumer loans through December 2025. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had $9.5 million of residential loans and no consumer loans in the pipeline, which represents the remaining commitments expected to close in 2026. Below describes the Company's process for the existing residential and consumer portfolio through 2025.

*Residential Real Estate* 

The Bank offered both fixed-rate and ARM loans secured by one-to-four family residences with maturities up to 30 years. The majority of such loans are secured by property located in the Bank's primary market area. Loan originations were typically generated by the Bank's commissioned loan representatives and were largely derived from contacts within the local real estate industry, members of the local communities, the Bank's existing or past customers, and targeted advertising through digital channels.

At December 31, 2025, $3.20 billion, or 29.0% of total loans, were residential real estate loans, which included $5.8 million of loans held-for-sale, and consisted primarily of single family and owner occupied loans, as compared to $3.07 billion, or 30.3% of total loans, at December 31, 2024. To a lesser extent, and included in this activity, are residential mortgage loans secured by seasonal second homes, non-owner occupied investment properties and construction loans. The average size of the Bank's residential real estate loans was approximately $358,000 at December 31, 2025.

The Bank offered several ARM loan programs with interest rates that adjust between annually to ten years, as well as loans that operate as fixed-rate loans at their onset and later convert to an ARM for the remainder of the term. These loans have periodic and overall caps on the increase or decrease at any adjustment date and over the life of the loan. These loans are indexed to an applicable SOFR rate or U.S Treasury plus a spread. The majority of the ARM portfolio is tied to the one-year U.S. Treasury bill. Adjustments are generally based on a spread between 2.75% and 3.25%. Generally, the maximum interest rate on these loans is 6% above the initial interest rate.

ARM loans may pose credit risks different than the risks inherent in fixed-rate loans, primarily because as interest rates rise, the payments of the borrower rise, thereby increasing the potential for delinquency and default. At the same time, the marketability of the underlying property may be adversely affected by higher interest rates. In order to minimize risks, borrowers of ARM loans with an initial fixed period of five years or less must qualify based on the greater of the note rate plus 2% or the fully-indexed rate. Seven- to ten-year ARM loans must qualify based on the note rate. The Bank does not originate ARM loans that can result in negative amortization.

The Bank's fixed-rate mortgage loans were generally made for terms from ten to 30 years. The Bank either holds its residential loans for its portfolio or sells a portion of its loans to either government sponsored enterprises such as the FHLB, Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae, or to a third party aggregator. During 2025, the Company sold $500.6 million of loans with a related gain on sale of loans for $3.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2025. Additionally, during 2025 the Company sold non-performing residential and consumer loans of $9.8 million, with related charge-offs of $1.5 million. In certain loan sales, the Company will retain servicing rights, otherwise servicing rights may be sold as part of the loan sale. The retention of fixed-rate mortgage loans may increase the level of interest rate risk exposure of the Bank, as the rates on these loans will not adjust during periods of rising interest rates and the loans can be subject to substantial increases in prepayments during periods of falling interest rates.

The Bank's policy was to originate residential real estate loans in amounts up to 80% of the lower of the appraised value or the selling price of the property securing the loan, up to 95% of the appraised value or selling price if private mortgage insurance is obtained, and up to 97% of the lower of the appraised value or selling price if the borrower qualified for the NeighborFirst, Helping Home Loan, or special purpose credit program available to certain census tracts. Appraisals are obtained for loans

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secured by real estate properties. The weighted average loan-to-value ratio of the Bank's residential real estate loans, excluding loan purchase pools, was 62% at December 31, 2025 based on appraisal values at the time of origination. Title insurance is typically required for first mortgage loans. Residential mortgage loans that were originated by the Bank include due-on-sale clauses which provide the Bank with the contractual right to declare the loan immediately due and payable in the event the borrower transfers ownership of the property without the Bank's consent. Due-on-sale clauses are an important means of adjusting the rates on the Bank's fixed-rate residential mortgage loan portfolio and the Bank has generally exercised its rights under these clauses.

The Bank has made, and may continue to make, residential mortgage loans that will not qualify as Qualified Mortgage Loans under the Dodd-Frank Act and the CFPB regulations. See <u>Risk Factors – Risks Related to Lending Activities – The Dodd-Frank Act imposes obligations on originators of residential mortgage loans</u>.

Included in the Bank's residential real estate loan balance at December 31, 2025, were residential construction loans which totaled $80.5 million. The Bank originated residential construction loans primarily on a construction to permanent basis with such loans converting to an amortizing loan following the completion of the construction phase. All of the Bank's residential construction loans were made to individuals building a residence.

Construction lending, by its nature, entails additional risks compared to residential real estate lending, attributable primarily to the fact that funds are advanced based upon a security interest in a project which is not yet complete. The risk of loss on a construction loan depends largely upon whether the initial estimate of the property's value at completion of construction equals or exceeds the cost of the property construction. During the construction phase, a number of factors can result in delays and cost overruns. If estimates of value are inaccurate or if actual construction costs exceed estimates, the value of the property securing the loan may be insufficient to ensure full repayment when completed. The Bank addresses these risks through its underwriting policies and procedures and its experienced staff.

*Home Equity Loans and Lines, Student Loans and Other Consumer* 

At December 31, 2025, the Bank's consumer loans totaled $202.8 million, or 1.8% of the Bank's total loan portfolio, as compared to $230.5 million, or 2.3% of total loans, at December 31, 2024. Of the total consumer loan portfolio: home equity loans comprised $95.8 million; home equity lines of credit comprised $90.4 million; and student loans comprised $12.0 million.

The Bank originated home equity loans typically as fixed-rate loans with terms ranging from five to 20 years. The Bank also offered variable-rate home equity lines of credit. Home equity loans and lines of credit were originated based on the applicant's income and their ability to repay and are secured by a mortgage on the underlying real estate, typically owner-occupied, one-to-four-family residences. Generally, the loan when combined with the balance of any applicable first mortgage lien, may not exceed 80% of the appraised value of the property at the time of the loan commitment. The Bank charges an early termination fee should a home equity loan or line of credit be closed within two or three years of origination. A borrower is required to make minimum monthly payments of principal and interest, based upon a 10-, 15- or 20-year amortization period. Certain home equity lines of credit require the payment of interest-only during the first five years with fully-amortizing payments thereafter. At December 31, 2025, these loans totaled $8.4 million, as compared to $5.9 million at December 31, 2024.

The adjustable rate of interest charged is generally based upon the prime rate of interest (as published in the Wall Street Journal), although the range of interest rates charged may vary from 1.0% below prime to 1.5% over prime. The loans have an 18% lifetime cap on interest rate adjustments.

Consumer loans may entail greater risk than residential real estate loans, particularly in the case of consumer loans that are unsecured or secured by assets that depreciate rapidly. Repossessed collateral for a defaulted consumer loan may not provide an adequate source of repayment for the outstanding loan and a small remaining deficiency often does not warrant further substantial collection efforts against the borrower. Consumer loan collections depend on the borrower's continuing financial stability and therefore are likely to be adversely affected by various factors, including job loss, divorce, illness, or personal bankruptcy. Furthermore, the application of various federal and state laws, including federal and state bankruptcy, and insolvency laws may limit the amount that can be recovered on such loans.

<u>Loan Approval Procedures and Authority</u>. The Loan Committee of the Board of Directors establishes the loan approval policies of the Bank based on the type of loan and the total exposure to the individual borrower. The Loan Committee of the Board of Directors has authorized the approval of loans by a minimum of two officers of the Bank or the Management Credit Committee, on a scale which requires approval by personnel with progressively higher levels of credit approval authority as the loan amount increases. Pursuant to applicable regulations, loans to one borrower generally cannot exceed 15% of the Bank's unimpaired capital.

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Acquired loans are evaluated under OceanFirst's credit risk management policies during pre-closing due diligence and during post-closing risk rating reviews.

In addition to internal credit reviews, the Bank has engaged independent firms specializing in commercial loan reviews to examine a selection of commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans and provide management with objective analysis regarding the quality of these loans throughout the year. The independent firms reviewed over 60% of the outstanding loan balances for the Bank's commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans during 2025. Their conclusion was that the Bank's internal credit reviews are consistent with both Bank policy and general industry practice.

<u>Loan Servicing</u>. Loan servicing includes collecting and remitting loan payments, accounting for principal and interest, making inspections as required of mortgaged premises, contacting delinquent borrowers, supervising foreclosures and property dispositions in the event of defaults, making certain insurance and tax payments on behalf of the borrowers, and generally administering the loans. The Bank also services mortgage loans for others. Generally, loans currently being serviced for others are loans which were originated by the Bank and subsequently sold to third parties. At December 31, 2025, the Bank was servicing $365.4 million of loans for others.

<u>Delinquencies and Classified Assets</u>. The steps taken by the Bank with respect to delinquencies vary depending on the nature of the loan and period of delinquency. When a borrower fails to make the required payment on a loan, the Bank takes a number of steps to have the borrower cure the delinquency and restore the loan to current status. The Bank sends the borrower a written notice of non-payment after the loan is first past due. In the event payment is not then received, additional letters and phone calls generally are made. The Bank may offer to modify the terms or take other forbearance actions which afford the borrower an opportunity to satisfy the loan terms. If the loan is still not brought current and it becomes necessary for the Bank to take legal action, which typically occurs after a loan is delinquent at least 120 days or more, the Bank will either: (i) commence litigation to acquire the collateral, including foreclosure proceedings against any real property that secures the loan; or (ii) sell eligible non-performing loans where foreclosure proceedings may or may not have been initiated. If a foreclosure action is instituted and the loan is not brought current, paid in full, or an acceptable workout accommodation is not agreed upon before the foreclosure sale, the real property securing the loan generally is sold at foreclosure. Foreclosure timelines in New Jersey are

among the longest in the nation and have remained protracted over the past several years.

The Bank classifies assets in accordance with its Classification of Assets and the ACL policy, which considers certain regulatory guidelines and definitions. As part of the ACL policy, the Bank's Special Asset Group reviews and confirms the criticized and classified commercial loan report monthly. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Bank had $104.0 million and $105.3 million, of loans, including OREO, classified as Substandard, respectively. The decrease in substandard loans is primarily due to payoffs, partly offset by new downgrades and net migrations from special mention to substandard. Assets which do not currently expose the Bank to sufficient risk to warrant classification but possess potential weaknesses, such as past delinquencies, are designated as Special Mention. Special Mention loans totaled $18.2 million at December 31, 2025, as compared to $54.5 million at December 31, 2024. The decrease in special mention loans was primarily due to upgrades, payoffs and migrations to substandard, partly offset by new downgrades to special mention during the year ended December 31, 2025.

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<u>Non-Performing Loans and OREO.</u> The following table sets forth information regarding non-performing loans, including PCD loans, and OREO. The Bank's PCD loans relate to loans acquired from acquisitions. PCD loans are accounted for at the purchase price or acquisition date fair value, with an estimate of expected credit losses for groups of PCD loans with similar risk characteristics and individual PCD loans without similar characteristics, to arrive at an initial amortized cost basis. It is the policy of the Bank to cease accruing interest on loans 90 days or more past due or in the process of foreclosure.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) |
| Non-performing loans <sup>(1) (2) (3)</sup> | $27791 | $35527 | $29548 |
| OREO | 10266 | 1811 |  |
| Non-performing assets <sup>(2)</sup> | $38057 | $37338 | $29548 |
| Allowance for loan credit losses | $83726 | $73607 | $67137 |
| Allowance for unfunded commitments | 4028 | 3264 | 1987 |
| Allowance for loan credit losses as a percent of total loans receivable <sup>(4)</sup> | 0.76% | 0.73% | 0.66% |
| Allowance for loan credit losses as a percent of total non-performing loans <sup>(2) (4)</sup>  | 301.27 | 207.19 | 227.21 |
| Non-performing loans as a percent of total loans receivable <sup>(2)</sup> | 0.25 | 0.35 | 0.29 |
| Non-performing assets as a percent of total assets <sup>(2)</sup> | 0.26 | 0.28 | 0.22 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Excludes loans held-for-sale.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)Non-performing assets consist of non-performing loans and real estate acquired through foreclosure. Non-performing loans consist of all loans 90 days or more past due and other loans in the process of foreclosure.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)The year ended December 31, 2025 included the sale of non-performing residential and consumer loans of $9.8 million.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4)Loans acquired from acquisitions were recorded at fair value. The net unamortized credit and PCD marks on these loans, not reflected in the allowance for loan credit losses, were $4.0 million, $6.0 million, and $7.5 million at December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023, respectively.

Non-performing loans totaled $27.8 million at December 31, 2025, a decrease of $7.7 million as compared to December 31, 2024, primarily due to loans that paid off or returned to accrual status. The Company had OREO assets of $10.3 million and $1.8 million at December 31, 2025, and 2024, respectively. The increase in OREO assets primarily due to one commercial loan.

<u>Allowance for Credit Losses:</u> Under the CECL model, the ACL on financial assets is a valuation allowance estimated at each balance sheet date in accordance with GAAP that is deducted from the financial assets' amortized cost basis to present the net amount expected to be collected on the financial assets. The CECL model also applies to certain off-balance sheet credit exposures.

The Company estimates the loan ACL based on the underlying assets' amortized cost basis, which is the amount at which the financing receivable is originated or acquired, adjusted for applicable accretion or amortization of premium, discount, net deferred fees or costs, collection of cash, and charge-offs. In the event that collection of principal becomes uncertain, the Company has policies in place to write off accrued interest receivable by reversing interest income in a timely manner. Therefore, the Company has made a policy election to exclude accrued interest from the amortized cost basis and therefore excludes it from the measurement of the loan ACL. A description of the methodology used in establishing the ACL is set forth in the section <u>Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates, Allowance for Credit Losses</u>.

At December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Bank's loan ACL as a percentage of total loans was 0.76% and 0.73%, respectively. The net unamortized credit and PCD marks on all acquired loans, not reflected in the allowance, was $4.0 million and $6.0 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The loan ACL as a percentage of total non-performing loans was 301.27% and 207.19% at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The Bank will continue to monitor its allowance for loan credit losses as conditions dictate.

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The following table sets forth activity in the Bank's loan ACL for the periods set forth in the table:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **At or for the Year Ended December 31,** | **At or for the Year Ended December 31,** | **At or for the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) |
| Balance at beginning of year | $73607 | $67137 | $56824 |
| Charge-offs: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial real estate - investor <sup>(1)</sup> | 3534 | 1659 | 8350 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial – real estate |  |  | 6 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial – non-real estate | 835 |  | 129 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial | 835 |  | 135 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Residential real estate <sup>(2)</sup> | 1451 | 76 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other consumer <sup>(2)</sup> | 433 | 485 | 208 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total charge-offs | 6253 | 2220 | 8693 |
| Recoveries | 808 | 665 | 311 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net charge-offs | 5445 | 1555 | 8382 |
| Initial allowance on acquired loans from Spring Garden |  | 2547 |  |
| Provision for credit losses | 15564 | 5478 | 18695 |
| Balance at end of year | $83726 | $73607 | $67137 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Commercial real estate - investor charge-offs during the year ended December 31, 2025 primarily related to two commercial relationships of $1.6 million. Commercial real estate - investor charge-offs during the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 of $1.7 million and $8.4 million, respectively, primarily related to a single commercial relationship which was resolved via sale of collateral during 2024.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)The year ended December 31, 2025 included charge-offs of $1.5 million related to the sale of non-performing residential and consumer loans.

The following table sets forth the net charge-offs/recoveries and the percent of net charge-offs/recoveries by loan category to average net loans outstanding for the periods indicated (dollars in thousands):

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **At or for the Year Ended December 31,** | **At or for the Year Ended December 31,** | **At or for the Year Ended December 31,** | **At or for the Year Ended December 31,** | **At or for the Year Ended December 31,** | **At or for the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** | **2023** | **2023** |
| | **Net Charge-offs (Recoveries)** | **Ratio of Net Charge-offs (Recoveries) to Average Loans** | **Net Charge-offs (Recoveries)** | **Ratio of Net Charge-offs (Recoveries) to Average Loans** | **Net Charge-offs (Recoveries)** | **Ratio of Net Charge-offs (Recoveries) to Average Loans** |
| Net charge-offs (recoveries): |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial real estate - investor | $3353 | 0.03% | $1440 | 0.02% | $8344 | 0.08% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial – real estate | (19) |  | (32) |  | (8) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial – non-real estate | 505 | 0.01 | (18) |  | 104 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial | 486 |  | (50) |  | 96 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Residential real estate | 1360 | 0.01 | (130) |  | (43) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other consumer | 246 |  | 295 |  | (15) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total net charge-offs (recoveries) | 5445 | 0.05% | 1555 | 0.02% | 8382 | 0.08% |
| Average net loans outstanding during the year | $10265245 |  | $10019531 |  | $10016859 |  |

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The following table sets forth the Bank's ACL by loan category and its percent to total loan ACL at December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, and the percent of loans to total loans in each of the categories listed at the dates indicated (dollars in thousands):

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| | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** | **2024** | **2023** | **2023** | **2023** |
| | **ACL Amount** | **Percent of**<br>**ACL**<br>**to Total**<br>**ACL** | **Percent<br>of Loans to Total<br>Loans** | **ACL Amount** | **Percent of**<br>**ACL**<br>**to Total**<br>**ACL** | **Percent<br>of Loans to Total<br>Loans** | **ACL Amount** | **Percent of**<br>**ACL**<br>**to Total**<br>**ACL** | **Percent<br>of Loans to Total<br>Loans** |
| Commercial real estate - investor | $29944 | 35.8% | 49.1% | $30780 | 41.8% | 52.2% | $27899 | 41.6% | 52.5% |
| Commercial and industrial – real estate | 4753 | 5.7 | 8.9 | 3817 | 5.2 | 8.9 | 4354 | 6.5 | 9.3 |
| Commercial and industrial – non-real estate | 23376 | 27.9 | 11.1 | 10471 | 14.2 | 6.4 | 6867 | 10.2 | 6.5 |
| Residential real estate | 24680 | 29.5 | 29.0 | 27587 | 37.5 | 30.3 | 27029 | 40.3 | 29.3 |
| Other consumer | 973 | 1.2 | 1.8 | 952 | 1.3 | 2.3 | 988 | 1.5 | 2.5 |
| Total | $83726 | 100.0% | 100.0% | $73607 | 100.0% | 100.0% | $67137 | 100.0% | 100.0% |

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**Investment Activities**

The Bank views its securities portfolio primarily as a source of income and liquidity. Interest and principal payments generated from securities provide a source of liquidity to fund loans and meet short-term cash needs. The portfolio is also used to provide collateral for qualified deposits and borrowings and to manage interest rate risk.

The investment policy is overseen by the Board and generally limits investments to government and federal agency obligations, agency and non-agency mortgage-backed securities, and municipal, corporate, and asset-backed securities. The Company's investment policy mirrors that of the Bank except that it allows for the purchase of certain other debt, preferred stock, and equity securities in limited amounts. The Board has delegated authority to implement the investment policy to the Company and Bank's Investment Committees under the oversight of the Asset Liability Committee, which are both management-level committees. Day-to-day management of the portfolio rests with the Treasurer.

Classification of securities are determined by management at the time of purchase. If the Bank has the intent and the ability at the time of purchase to hold debt securities until maturity, they may be classified as held-to-maturity. Debt securities identified as held-to-maturity are carried at cost, adjusted for amortization of premium and accretion of discount, which are recognized as adjustments to interest income. Debt securities to be held for indefinite periods of time, but not necessarily to maturity, are classified as available-for-sale. Such debt securities are carried at an estimated fair value and unrealized gains and losses, net of tax effect, are included as a separate component of stockholders' equity. Refer to Note 4. Securities to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

The majority of the Bank's residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities are issued or guaranteed by an agency of the U.S. government including FHLMC, FNMA, and GNMA. Agency mortgage-backed securities along with obligations issued directly by the U.S. government, and its agencies entail a lesser degree of credit risk than loans made by the Bank and most other securities by virtue of the guarantees that back them; they require less capital under risk-based capital rules, are generally more liquid, and are more easily used to collateralize borrowings or other obligations of the Bank. Each of the U.S. government, agency, and agency guaranteed obligations are rated AA+ by Standard and Poor's and Aa1 by Moody's.

The municipal portfolio provides tax-advantaged yield and diversification of risk and is generally comprised of general obligation and revenue bonds issued by states, cities, counties and other governmental entities to fund day-to-day obligations and to finance capital projects such as building schools, highways, sewer systems, hospitals, or other critical infrastructure. The asset-backed securities portfolio provides attractive yields and diversification of risk and is largely comprised of senior classes of collateralized loan obligations that invest in U.S.-based syndicated and middle market loans. The corporate debt securities portfolio is comprised of U.S. financial services and industrial companies that exhibit strong credit characteristics and provide attractive returns. The Bank may occasionally invest in non-agency residential or commercial mortgage-backed securities that are rated investment grade depending on credit and return on investment profiles. The vast majority of municipal, asset-backed, corporate, and other mortgage-backed securities are issued by entities with current credit ratings by one of the nationally recognized statistical rating organizations that are considered investment grade. See Note 4 Securities to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

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The table below sets forth certain information regarding the amortized cost, weighted average yield, and contractual maturities, excluding scheduled principal amortization, of the Bank's debt securities as of December 31, 2025. The weighted average yield is calculated based on the yield to maturity weighted for the size of each debt security over the entire portfolio of debt securities. The weighted average yields on tax-exempt obligations have been computed on a tax-equivalent basis. Actual maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Refer to Note 4. Securities to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion on contractual maturities and callable securities.

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| | | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** | **At December 31, 2025** |
| | | | | | | | | | **Total** | **Total** |
| |<br>**One Year <br>or Less Amortized Cost** |<br>**Weighted Average Yield** |<br>**More than One Year to Five Years Amortized Cost** |<br>**Weighted Average Yield** |<br>**More than Five Years to Ten Years Amortized Cost** |<br>**Weighted Average Yield** |<br>**More than Ten Years Amortized Cost** |<br>**Weighted Average Yield** | **Amortized**<br>**Cost** <sup>(1)</sup> | **Estimated<br>Fair<br>Value** |
| | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) |
| U.S. government and agency obligations | $10092 | 0.82% | $44515 | 1.35% | $— | —% | $— | —% | $54607 | $51941 |
| State and municipal debt obligations | 23820 | 1.57 | 57698 | 2.05 | 39561 | 2.67 | 119964 | 4.37 | 241043 | 240318 |
| Corporate debt securities <sup>(2)</sup> | 1209 | 1.50 | 47565 | 5.76 | 24077 | 6.58 | 4082 | 9.69 | 76933 | 76769 |
| Asset-backed securities <sup>(3)</sup> |  |  | 5000 | 6.16 | 34610 | 5.80 | 74985 | 5.75 | 114595 | 114494 |
| Mortgage-backed securities<sup>(4)</sup>: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Agency residential | 266 | 2.17 | 9203 | 2.31 | 111062 | 1.76 | 1325626 | 4.07 | 1446157 | 1401367 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Agency commercial |  |  | 82248 | 2.02 | 38648 | 1.96 | 64691 | 4.25 | 185587 | 171280 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Non-agency commercial |  |  |  |  |  |  | 1531 | 2.23 | 1531 | 1448 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total mortgage-backed securities | $266 | 2.17% | $91451 | 2.05% | $149710 | 1.81% | $1391848 | 4.07% | $1633275 | $1574095 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities<sup>(5)</sup> | $35387 | 1.36% | $246229 | 2.72% | $247958 | 2.97% | $1590879 | 4.19% | $2120453 | $2057617 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)The amortized cost of available-for-sale securities excludes the portfolio layer fair value hedge basis adjustments of $4.0 million at December 31, 2025.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)$43.6 million carry interest rates which adjust to a spread over SOFR on a quarterly basis.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)All of the Bank's asset-backed securities carry interest rates which adjust to a spread over SOFR on a quarterly basis.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4)$239.7 million carry interest rates which generally adjust to a spread over SOFR on a monthly basis.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5)Includes fixed rate securities that are the hedged items in fair value hedges under the portfolio layer method. The hedged instruments are pay fixed rate and receive floating rate interest rate swaps, and the total notional amount of these hedges is $678.9 million as of December 31, 2025.

<u>Equity Investments</u>. At December 31, 2025, and 2024, the Company held equity investments of $91.9 million and $84.1 million, respectively. The equity investments are primarily comprised of select financial services institutions' preferred stocks, and investments in other financial institutions and investment funds. At December 31, 2025, and 2024, the Company held restricted equity investments of $129.3 million and $108.6 million, respectively. The restricted equity investments are primarily comprised of FHLB and FRB stock which are carried at cost.

**Sources of Funds**

<u>General</u>. The Bank's primary sources of funds are deposits, principal and interest payments on loans and investments, FHLB advances, and other borrowings. While scheduled payments on loans and securities are predictable sources of funds, deposit flows, loan prepayments, and loan and investment sales are greatly influenced by changes in market interest rates, competition, general economic conditions, including levels of unemployment and real estate values, and inflation. The Bank has other sources of liquidity if a need for additional funds arises, including lines of credit at multiple financial institutions and access to the FRB discount window.

<u>Deposits</u>. The Bank offers a variety of deposit accounts with a range of interest rates and terms to retail, government, and business customers. The Bank's deposits consist of money market accounts, savings accounts, interest-bearing checking accounts, non-interest-bearing accounts, and time deposits, including brokered deposits. The flow of deposits is influenced significantly by general economic conditions, prevailing interest rates, and competition. The Bank's deposits are obtained predominantly from the areas in which its branch offices are located, and to a lesser extent, through digital service channels. The Bank relies on its community-banking focus, stressing customer service and long-standing relationships with its customers to attract and retain these deposits; however, market interest rates and rates offered by competing financial institutions could significantly affect the Bank's ability to attract and retain deposits. The Company's deposits increased $898.1 million to $10.96 billion at December 31, 2025, from $10.07 billion in the prior year, primarily due to increases in time deposits of $387.9 million and interest bearing deposits of $353.9 million.

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At December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Bank had $6.46 billion and $5.75 billion, respectively, of total uninsured deposits (in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation limit). At December 31, 2025 and 2024, this total included $2.71 billion and $2.48 billion, respectively, of collateralized government deposits, and $1.90 billion and $1.58 billion of intercompany deposits of fully consolidated subsidiaries. Estimated adjusted uninsured deposits excluding these balances represented $1.85 billion and $1.69 billion, or 16.8% and 16.5% of total deposits, as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

At December 31, 2025, the Bank had $474.6 million in time deposits in amounts of $250,000 or more maturing as follows:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Maturity Period** | **Time Deposits** | **Weighted<br>Average Rate** |
|  | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) |
| Three months or less | $267513 | 3.88% |
| Over three through six months | 172146 | 3.65 |
| Over six through twelve months | 32698 | 2.96 |
| Over twelve months | 2265 | 2.09 |
| Total | $474622 | 3.73% |

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The following table sets forth the distribution of the Bank's average deposit accounts and the average rate paid on those deposits for the periods indicated:

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| | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** | **2024** | **2023** | **2023** | **2023** |
| | **Average<br>Balance** | **Percent<br>of Total<br>Average<br>Deposits** | **Average<br>Rate<br>Paid** | **Average<br>Balance** | **Percent<br>of Total<br>Average<br>Deposits** | **Average<br>Rate<br>Paid** | **Average<br>Balance** | **Percent<br>of Total<br>Average<br>Deposits** | **Average<br>Rate<br>Paid** |
| | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) |
| Non-interest-bearing accounts | $1678768 | 16.1% | —% | $1630719 | 15.9% | —% | $1869735 | 18.2% | —% |
| Interest-bearing checking accounts | 4148302 | 39.9 | 2.14 | 3923846 | 38.2 | 2.20 | 3795502 | 37.0 | 1.39 |
| Money market deposit accounts | 1434355 | 13.8 | 2.86 | 1214690 | 11.8 | 3.45 | 794387 | 7.7 | 2.35 |
| Savings accounts | 1021341 | 9.8 | 0.65 | 1169424 | 11.4 | 0.98 | 1364333 | 13.3 | 0.68 |
| Time deposits | 2118145 | 20.4 | 3.76 | 2325638 | 22.7 | 4.40 | 2440829 | 23.8 | 3.74 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total average deposits | $10400911 | 100.0% | 2.08% | $10264317 | 100.0% | 2.36% | $10264786 | 100.0% | 1.68% |

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<u>Borrowings</u>. The Bank also obtains advances from the FHLB and other sources for cash management and interest rate risk management purposes or as an alternative to deposits. Advances are collateralized primarily by certain of the Bank's mortgage loans and debt securities and secondarily by the Bank's investment in capital stock of the FHLB. The maximum amount that the FHLB will advance to member institutions, including the Bank, fluctuates from time to time in accordance with the policies of the FHLB. At December 31, 2025, the Bank had $1.40 billion of outstanding advances from the FHLB.

The Company also has borrowings outside of the FHLB comprised of subordinated debt and trust preferred debt. During the year, the Company issued $185.0 million of subordinated notes in October 2025 at an initial rate of 6.375% and stated maturity of November 15, 2035. The proceeds were primarily used to redeem the Company's subordinated notes due May 15, 2030, with principal amount of $125.0 million, in November 2025. The Company had trust preferred debt with a carrying value of $72.1 million as of December 31, 2025.

The Bank can also borrow from the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia under its primary credit program. Primary credit is available on a short-term basis, typically overnight, at a rate above the Federal Open Market Committee's Federal funds target rate. All extensions of credit by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia must be secured. At December 31, 2025, the Bank had no borrowings outstanding with the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia.

As of December 31, 2025, the Company pledged $7.92 billion of loans with the FHLB and the FRB to enhance the Company's borrowing capacity, which included collateral pledged to the FHLB to obtain a municipal letter of credit to collateralize certain government municipal deposits. At December 31, 2025, the Bank had outstanding municipal letters of credit of $1.13 billion issued by the FHLB used to secure such government deposits. The Company also pledged $1.45 billion of securities with the

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FHLB and the FRB to secure borrowings, enhance borrowing capacity, collateralize its repurchase agreements, and for other purposes required by law.

The Bank also borrows funds using securities sold under agreements to repurchase with customers. Under this form of borrowing, specific securities are pledged as collateral to secure the borrowing. These pledged securities are held by a third-party custodian. At December 31, 2025, the Bank had borrowed $54.4 million through securities sold under agreements to repurchase with customers.

The Bank has access to the FRB discount window as an additional source of funds. As of December 31, 2025 the Bank had no borrowings outstanding with the FRB discount window.

**Recent Developments**

On December 29, 2025, the Company, Flushing, and Apollo Merger Sub Corp., a Delaware corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company ("Merger Sub"), entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement"). On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, (a) Merger Sub will merge with and into Flushing, with Flushing continuing as the surviving entity (the "First Merger"), (b) immediately following the First Merger, Flushing will merge with and into the Company, with the Company continuing as the surviving entity (the "Second Merger" and together with the First Merger, the "Mergers"), and (c) on the day immediately following the Second Merger, Flushing Bank, a New York chartered non-member bank and, prior to the Second Merger, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Flushing, will merge with and into the Bank, with the Bank continuing as the surviving bank (the "Bank Merger"). The Merger Agreement was unanimously approved by the board of directors of the Company and the board of directors of Flushing.

Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, at the effective time of the First Merger (the "Effective Time"), each share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Flushing issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time, subject to certain exceptions, will be converted into the right to receive 0.85 of a share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company.

Concurrently with its entry into the Merger Agreement, the Company entered into an Investment Agreement, dated December 29, 2025, with affiliates of funds managed by Warburg (the "Investment Agreement"). On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Investment Agreement, concurrently with the closing of the Mergers, Warburg will invest an aggregate of $225 million in exchange for the sale and issuance by the Company of approximately (a) 9.5 million shares of the Company's common stock at a purchase price of $19.76 per share and (b) 1,900 shares of a new class of non-voting, common-equivalent stock of the Company ("NVCE Stock") at a purchase price of $19,760 per share, which represents the economic equivalent of approximately 1.9 million shares of the Company's common stock. In addition, Warburg will receive a warrant to purchase approximately 11,400 shares of NVCE Stock with an exercise price of $19,760 per share of NVCE Stock, which represents the economic equivalent of approximately 11.4 million shares of the Company's common stock (the "Warrant" and, together with the Company's common stock and NVCE Stock to be issued pursuant to the Investment Agreement, the "Investment"). The Warrant carries a term of seven years and can be exercised voluntarily following the third anniversary of the investment closing. The Warrant can also be voluntarily exercised prior to the third anniversary of the investment closing, (i) in the event the market price of the Company's common stock reaches or exceeds $30 per share at the closing of any trading day or (ii) in transactions involving a change of control. The Warrant is subject to mandatory exercise, at any time, in the event the market price of the Company's common stock reaches or exceeds $30 per share for 20 or more trading days during any 30 consecutive trading day period.

Subject to the receipt of requisite regulatory and stockholder approvals and satisfaction or waiver of other customary closing conditions, the parties anticipate that the Mergers, the Bank Merger and the Investment will close in the second quarter of 2026.

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**Subsidiary Activities**

At December 31, 2025, the Company held the Bank and OceanFirst Risk Management, Inc. as direct subsidiaries. OceanFirst Risk Management Inc. is a Nevada captive insurance company that insures certain risks relating to the business of the Bank and the Company. During 2025, the Company held a 60% controlling interest in Trident Abstract Title Agency, LLC, which was disposed of in its entirety on October 1, 2025.

At December 31, 2025, the Bank owned all or a majority interest in five direct subsidiaries:

• OceanFirst REIT Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation, was established in 2007 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank and now acts as the holding company for OceanFirst Management Corp, a New York corporation, which was organized in 2016 to hold and manage investment securities, including the stock of OceanFirst Realty Corp. OceanFirst Realty Corp., a Delaware corporation, was established in 1997 and invests in qualifying mortgage loans and is intended to qualify as a real estate investment trust, which may, among other things, be utilized by the Company to raise capital in the future.

• Casaba Real Estate Holding Corporation, a New Jersey corporation, was acquired by the Bank as a wholly-owned subsidiary as part of its acquisition of Cape Bancorp, Inc. in 2016. This subsidiary is maintained to take legal possession of certain repossessed collateral for resale to third parties.

• Country Property Holdings Inc., a New York corporation, was acquired by the Bank as a wholly-owned subsidiary as part of its acquisition of Country Bank in 2020. This subsidiary is maintained to take legal possession of certain repossessed collateral for resale to third parties.

• Spring Garden Capital Group, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, was acquired by the Bank on October 1, 2024 to expand the Bank's specialty finance offerings. This subsidiary is the holding company for Spring Garden Lending Group, LLC, a specialty lending company, Spring Garden Capital Advisors, LLC, a real estate consulting company, and Spring Garden Equity, LLC, a mezzanine finance company. Spring Garden Lending Baltimore, LLC, a specialty lending company, is also a wholly owned subsidiary of Spring Garden Lending Group, LLC.

• OFB Acquisition LLC, a New Jersey limited liability company, was incorporated on August 1, 2024 as a wholly-owned subsidiary. The subsidiary holds certain assets and liabilities acquired through acquisitions.

Lastly, the Company holds the following statutory business trusts: OceanFirst Capital Trust I, OceanFirst Capital Trust II, OceanFirst Capital Trust III, Sun Statutory Trust VII, Sun Capital Trust VII, Sun Capital Trust VIII, and Country Bank Statutory Trust I, collectively known as the "Trusts." All of the Trusts are incorporated in Delaware and were formed to issue trust preferred securities.

**Human Capital**

The Company's long-term growth and success depends on its ability to attract, develop and retain a high-performing workforce. The Company strives to provide a work environment that promotes collaboration, accountability, and employee engagement, which in turn drives both employee and customer success, as well as benefits the communities.

The Company's Board of Directors and Executive Team oversee the strategic management of the Company's human capital resources, and the Human Resources department manages the day-to-day of those resources.

*Employee profile*

As of December 31, 2025, the Bank had 898 full-time employees and 56 part-time employees for a total of 954 employees. Approximately 62% of the Bank's employees are female and 38% are male, and the average tenure was over seven years. Of the Bank's managers, 49% are female as of December 31, 2025.

*Total rewards*

As part of the Bank's compensation philosophy, market competitive total rewards programs are maintained for employees to attract and retain superior talent. In addition to competitive base wages, additional programs include annual bonus compensation opportunities, a Bank ESOP, a Bank matched 401(k) Plan, health and welfare benefits, flexible spending accounts, paid time off, family leave, and employee assistance programs. Some employees also receive grants of equity awards in the Company's stock and non-equity awards that mirror the Company's stock performance.

In addition, the Bank promotes health and wellness by encouraging work-life balance and sponsoring various programs, focusing on mental, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual health.

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*Talent* 

A core tenet of the Bank's talent philosophy is to both develop talent from within and supplement with external hires. Whenever possible, the Bank seeks to fill positions by promotion and transfer from within the organization. The Bank's talent acquisition team uses internal and external resources to recruit highly skilled and talented candidates; employee referrals are also encouraged.

The Company is dedicated to recruitment and career development practices that support its employees at all levels of the Company. The Company is committed to having a workforce that reflects the communities in which it serves. The internship program and the EDGE program (an entry level development program) also serve as a pipeline of early career talent for full time employment. Other available tools are also utilized to connect with prospective new hires.

Following a multi-pronged recruiting strategy, new hires participate in an onboarding program which includes an introduction to the Bank's culture, policies, and procedures. New employees are assigned an ambassador, who extends the integration process beyond the typical orientation experience. Retention strategies include espousing a culture that rewards high performance and builds trust through ongoing communication of strategic initiatives and executive roundtable conversations, in addition to the benefits mentioned above in *Total rewards*. The Bank's leadership development programs and opportunities offered through OceanFirst Bank University help ensure that motivated individuals have the opportunity for continuous improvement. Employees are encouraged to maintain a professional development action plan and participate in regular evaluation and growth opportunities. The Bank's peer recognition program provides the space for ongoing recognition and celebration of accomplishments.

This approach has yielded commitment from employees, which in turn encourages enterprise productivity and grows the business. This approach has also added new employees and innovative technology solutions, which support a continuous improvement mindset and accountability of a collaborative workforce.

**REGULATION AND SUPERVISION**

**General**

The Company is a BHC under Section 3 of the BHC Act, as amended. As a bank holding company, the Company is subject to the requirements of the BHC Act, including required approvals for investments in or acquisitions of banking organizations, or entities involved in activities that are deemed closely related to banking, capital adequacy standards, and limitations on non-banking activities. The Company is registered with the FRB and is required by Federal law to file reports with, and comply with the rules and regulations of the FRB. The Bank is a member of the FHLB System and, with respect to deposit insurance, of the DIF managed by the FDIC. The Bank is subject to extensive regulation, examination, and supervision by the OCC, as its primary federal regulator, and the FDIC, as the deposit insurer. As a financial institution with more than $10 billion in assets, the Bank is also subject to examination by the CFPB. The Bank must file reports with the OCC and the FDIC concerning its activities and financial condition in addition to obtaining regulatory approvals prior to consummating certain transactions such as mergers with, or acquisitions of, other insured depository institutions. The OCC conducts periodic examinations to test the Bank's safety and soundness and compliance with various regulatory requirements. This regulation and supervision establishes a comprehensive framework of activities in which an institution can engage and is intended primarily for the protection of the DIF and depositors and to ensure the safe and sound operation of the Bank. The regulatory structure also gives the regulatory authorities extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities and examination policies, including policies with respect to the classification of assets and the establishment of adequate allowance for credit losses for regulatory purposes.

In addition, the Company elected to become a financial holding company under the GLBA amendments to the BHC Act. Financial holding companies that continue to meet the applicable requirements, and the non-bank companies under their control, are permitted to engage in activities considered financial in nature or incidental to financial activities and, if the FRB determines that they pose no risk to the safety or soundness of depository institutions or the financial system in general, activities that are considered complementary to financial activities.

The banking industry is highly regulated. Both the scope of the laws and regulations and the intensity of supervision to which the Company and the Bank are subject to have increased in recent years, in response to the financial crisis as well as other factors such as technological and market changes. Many of these changes have occurred as a result of the Dodd-Frank Act and its implementing regulations. In addition, in 2018, the EGRRCPA was enacted. This legislation includes targeted amendments to the Dodd-Frank Act and other financial services laws.

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Statutory and regulatory controls increase a BHC's cost of doing business and limit the options of its management to deploy assets and maximize income. The following discussion is not intended to be a complete list of all the activities regulated by the banking laws or of the impact of such laws and regulations on the Company or the Bank. It is intended only to briefly summarize some material provisions.

The description of statutory provisions and regulations applicable to national banks and BHCs set forth in this Form 10-K does not purport to be a complete description of such statutes and regulations and their effects on the Bank and the Company, is subject to change and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the actual laws and regulations involved.

<u>The Dodd-Frank Act</u>. The Dodd-Frank Act significantly changed the bank regulatory structure and affects the lending, deposit, investment, compliance, and operating activities of financial institutions and their holding companies.

The Dodd-Frank Act created the CFPB with broad powers to supervise and enforce consumer protection laws. The CFPB has broad rule-making authority for a wide range of consumer protection laws that apply to all banks, including the authority to prohibit "unfair, deceptive or abusive" acts and practices. The CFPB has examination and enforcement authority over all banks with more than $10 billion in assets. At December 31, 2025, the Bank's total assets were $14.56 billion and, therefore, the Bank is subject to CFPB supervision and examination for compliance with specified Federal consumer protection laws.

Additionally, the Dodd-Frank Act includes a series of provisions covering mortgage loan origination standards affecting, among other things, originator compensation, minimum repayment standards and prepayments. The Dodd-Frank Act requires originators to make a reasonable and good faith determination based on documented information that a borrower has a reasonable ability to repay a particular mortgage loan over the long term and establishes certain protections from liability under this requirement for "qualified mortgages". The Ability-To-Repay/Qualified Mortgage Rule defines several categories of "qualified mortgage" loans, which obtain certain protections from liability. For further discussion, refer to 'Risk Factors – Risks Related to Lending Activities – The Dodd-Frank Act imposes obligations on originators of residential mortgage loans'.

The Dodd-Frank Act also requires that the amount of any interchange fee received by a debit card issuer with respect to debit card transactions be reasonable and proportional to the cost incurred by the issuer with respect to the transaction. Rules adopted by the FRB to implement these requirements limit interchange fees per debit card transaction collected by banks with assets of $10 billion or more. In addition, market forces may result in reduced fees charged by all issuers, regardless of asset size, which may result in reduced revenues for the Bank. For the year ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Bank's revenues from interchange fees were $5.2 million and $5.1 million, respectively. The 2025 and 2024 average net interchange fee per transaction were both $0.14.

<u>Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act</u>. EGRRCPA was intended to provide regulatory relief to midsized and regional banks. While many of its provisions are aimed at larger institutions, such as raising the threshold to be considered a systemically important financial institution to $250 billion in assets from $50 billion in assets, many of its provisions provide regulatory relief to those institutions with $10 billion or more in assets. Among other things, the EGRRCPA increased the asset threshold for depository institutions and holding companies to perform stress tests required under Dodd Frank from $10 billion to $250 billion in total consolidated assets, and raised the threshold for the requirement that publicly traded holding companies have a risk committee from $10 billion in consolidated assets to $50 billion in consolidated assets. In addition, the EGRRCPA limited the definition of loans that would be subject to the higher risk weighting applicable to high volatility commercial real estate.

<u>Volcker Rule</u>. Under the provisions of the Volcker Rule, insured depository institutions and companies affiliated with insured depository institutions (collectively, "banking entities") are prohibited from: (i) engaging in short-term proprietary trading for their own account; and (ii) having certain investments in, and relationships with, hedge funds, private equity funds and similar funds, subject to certain exemptions, in each case as the applicable terms are defined in the Volcker Rule and the implementing regulations. The implementing regulations also require banking entities to establish and maintain a compliance program to ensure adherence with the Volcker Rule requirements.

**Bank Holding Company Regulation**

The Company is a BHC and is supervised by the FRB and is required to file reports with the FRB and provide such additional information as the FRB may require. The Company and its non-bank subsidiaries are subject to examination by the FRB.

FRB regulations provide that a BHC is expected to act as a source of financial and managerial strength to its subsidiary bank and to commit resources to support the subsidiary banks in circumstances in which it might not do so absent those regulations.

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<u>Holding Company Consolidated Capital Requirements</u>. The Dodd-Frank Act requires capital rules and the application of the same leverage and risk-based capital requirements that apply to insured depository institutions to most bank holding companies. In addition to making bank holding companies subject to the same capital requirements as their bank subsidiaries, these provisions (often referred to as the Collins Amendment to the Dodd-Frank Act) were also intended to eliminate or significantly reduce the use of hybrid capital instruments, especially trust preferred securities, as regulatory capital.

The final Basel III capital rules permit banks with less than $15 billion in assets to continue to treat trust preferred securities as Tier 1 capital. This treatment is permanently grandfathered as Tier 1 capital even if the Company should ever exceed $15 billion assets due to organic growth. Should the Company exceed $15 billion in assets as the result of a merger or acquisition, then the Tier 1 treatment of its outstanding trust preferred securities will be phased out, but those securities will still be treated as Tier 2 capital.

The Company's subordinated debt is treated as Tier 2 capital with 20% annual phase-outs starting from the first call date in 2030.

At December 31, 2025, the Company exceeded all regulatory capital requirements currently applicable. The following table presents the Company's capital position at December 31, 2025:

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | | | | **Capital** | **Capital** | |
| **As of December 31, 2025** |<br>**Actual Capital** |<br>**Required Capital** |<br>**Excess Amount** | **Actual Percent** | **Required Percent** | |
| **OceanFirst Financial Corp:** | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) |  |  |  |
| Tier 1 capital (to average assets) | $1193942 | $551966 | $641976 | 8.65% | 4.00% |  |
| Common equity Tier 1 (to risk-weighted assets) | 1119172 | 730982 | 388190 | 10.72 | 7.00 | <sup>(1)</sup> |
| Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) | 1193942 | 887621 | 306321 | 11.43 | 8.50 | <sup>(1)</sup> |
| Total capital (to risk-weighted assets) | 1467329 | 1096473 | 370856 | 14.05 | 10.50 | <sup>(1)</sup> |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Includes the Capital Conservation Buffer of 2.50%.

<u>Dividends and repurchase of common stock</u>. The FRB has issued a policy statement regarding the payment of dividends and the repurchase of shares of common stock by BHCs. In general, the policy provides that dividends should be paid only out of current earnings and only if the prospective rate of earnings retention by the BHC appears consistent with the organization's capital needs, asset quality, and overall financial condition. Regulatory pressures to reclassify and charge off loans and to establish additional credit loss reserves can have the effect of reducing current operating earnings and thus impacting an institution's ability to pay dividends. Further, regulatory guidance provides for prior regulatory review of capital distributions in certain circumstances such as where the BHC's net income for the past four quarters, net of dividends previously paid over that period is insufficient to fully fund the dividend, the proposed dividend exceeds earnings for the period for which it is being paid, or the BHC's overall rate of earnings retention is inconsistent with the BHC's capital needs and overall financial condition. The guidance also provides for prior consultation with supervisory staff for material increases in the amount of a BHC's common stock dividend. The ability of a BHC to pay dividends may be restricted if a subsidiary bank becomes undercapitalized.

The policy statement also states that a BHC should inform the FRB supervisory staff prior to redeeming or repurchasing common stock or perpetual preferred stock if the BHC is experiencing financial weaknesses or if the repurchase or redemption would result in a net reduction in the amount of such instruments outstanding from the beginning of the quarter in which the redemption or repurchase occurred compared with the end of such quarter.

These regulatory policies may affect the ability of the BHC to pay dividends, repurchase shares of common stock, or otherwise engage in capital distributions.

<u>Acquisition of the Company</u>. Under the Change in Bank Control Act, no person may acquire control of a BHC, such as the Company, unless the FRB has been given 60 days prior written notice and has not issued a notice disapproving the proposed acquisition, taking into consideration certain factors, including the financial and managerial resources of the acquirer and the competitive effects of the acquisition. Control, as defined for this purpose, means ownership, control, or power to vote 25% or more of any class of voting stock.

There is a rebuttable presumption of control upon the acquisition of 10% or more of a class of voting stock if the BHC involved has its shares registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or if no other persons will own, control or hold the power to vote a greater percentage of that class of voting security after the acquisition.

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**Financial Holding Company Status**

When the Bank converted to a national bank charter and the Company became a BHC, the Company elected to become a financial holding company. Financial holding companies may engage in a broader scope of activities than a BHC. In addition, financial holding companies may undertake certain activities without prior FRB approval.

A financial holding company may affiliate with securities firms and insurance companies and engage in other activities that are financial in nature or incidental or complementary to activities that are financial in nature. Activities that are financial in nature include securities underwriting, dealing and market making; sponsoring mutual funds and investment companies; insurance underwriting and insurance agency activities; merchant banking; and activities that the FRB determines to be financial in nature or incidental to a financial activity or which are complementary to a financial activity and do not pose a safety and soundness risk.

A financial holding company that engages in activities that are financial in nature or incidental to a financial activity but not previously authorized by the FRB must obtain approval from the FRB before engaging in such activity. Also, a financial holding company may seek FRB approval to engage in an activity that is complementary to a financial activity, if it shows, among other things, that the activity does not pose a substantial risk to the safety and soundness of its insured depository institutions or the financial system.

A financial holding company generally may acquire a company (other than a BHC, bank, or savings association) engaged in activities that are financial in nature or incidental to activities that are financial in nature without prior approval from the FRB. Prior FRB approval is required, however, before the financial holding company may acquire control of more than 5% of the voting shares or substantially all of the assets of a BHC, bank, or savings association. In addition, under the FRB, merchant banking regulations, a financial holding company is authorized to invest in companies that engage in activities that are not financial in nature, as long as the financial holding company makes its investment with the intention of limiting the duration of the investment, does not manage the company on a day-to-day basis, and the company does not cross-market its products or services with any of the financial holding company's controlled depository institutions.

If any subsidiary bank of a financial holding company ceases to be "well-capitalized" or "well-managed" and fails to correct its condition within the time period that the FRB specifies, the FRB has authority to order the financial holding company to divest its subsidiary banks. Alternatively, the financial holding company may elect to limit its activities and the activities of its subsidiaries to those permissible for a BHC that is not a financial holding company. If any subsidiary bank of a financial holding company receives a rating under the CRA of less than "satisfactory," then the financial holding company is prohibited from engaging in new activities or acquiring companies other than BHCs, banks, or savings associations until the rating is raised to "satisfactory" or better. For additional information, refer to 'Regulation of Bank Subsidiary – Community Reinvestment Act and Fair Lending Law'.

**Regulation of Bank Subsidiary**

<u>Business Activities</u>. The operations of the Bank are subject to requirements and restrictions under federal law, including requirements to maintain reserves against deposits, restrictions on the types and amounts of loans that may be granted, and limitations on the types of investments that may be made and the types of services which may be offered. Various consumer laws and regulations also affect the operations of the Bank. Approval of the OCC is required for branching, bank mergers in which the continuing bank is a national bank, and in connection with certain fundamental corporate changes affecting the Bank. There are various legal limitations, including Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act, as implemented by Regulation W, which govern the extent to which a bank subsidiary may finance or otherwise supply funds to its holding company or its holding company's non-bank subsidiaries.

<u>Capital Requirements</u>. Federal regulations require banks to maintain minimum levels of capital including: a common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 4.5%, a Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 6.0%, a total capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 8.0%, and a Tier 1 capital to total assets leverage ratio of 4.0%.

In determining the amount of risk-weighted assets, all assets, including certain off-balance sheet assets (e.g., recourse obligations, direct credit substitutes, residual interests) are multiplied by a risk weight factor assigned by the regulations based on the risks believed inherent in the type of asset. Higher levels of capital are required for asset categories believed to present greater risk. Common equity Tier 1 capital is generally defined as common stockholders' equity and retained earnings. Tier 1 capital is generally defined as common equity Tier 1 and additional Tier 1 capital. Additional Tier 1 capital includes certain noncumulative perpetual preferred stock and related surplus and minority interests in equity accounts of consolidated subsidiaries. Total capital includes Tier 1 capital (common equity Tier 1 capital plus additional Tier 1 capital) and Tier 2 capital. Tier 2 capital is comprised of capital instruments and related surplus, meeting specified requirements, and may include

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cumulative preferred stock and long-term perpetual preferred stock, mandatory convertible securities, intermediate preferred stock and subordinated debt. Also included in Tier 2 capital is the allowance for credit losses limited to a maximum of 1.25% of risk-weighted assets. Unrealized gains and losses on certain available-for-sale securities are included for purposes of calculating regulatory capital unless a one-time opt-out is exercised. The Bank has exercised the opt-out. Calculation of all types of regulatory capital is subject to deductions and adjustments specified in the regulations. In assessing an institution's capital adequacy, federal regulators take into consideration, not only these numeric factors, but qualitative factors as well, and have the authority to establish higher capital requirements for individual banks where necessary.

In addition to establishing the minimum regulatory capital requirements, regulations limit capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments to management if the institution does not hold a "capital conservation buffer" consisting of 2.50% of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets above the amount necessary to meet its minimum risk-based capital requirements. Both the Bank and the Company are in compliance with the capital conservation buffer requirements applicable to them.

The federal banking agencies, including the OCC, have also adopted regulations to require an assessment of an institution's exposure to declines in the economic value of a bank's capital due to changes in interest rates when assessing the bank's capital adequacy. Under such a risk assessment, examiners evaluate a bank's capital for interest rate risk on a case-by-case basis, with consideration of both quantitative and qualitative factors. Institutions with significant interest rate risk may be required to hold additional capital. According to the federal banking agencies, applicable considerations include: quality of the bank's interest rate risk management process; the overall financial condition of the bank; and the level of other risks at the bank for which capital is needed.

At December 31, 2025, the Bank exceeded all regulatory capital requirements currently applicable. The following table presents the Bank's capital position at December 31, 2025:

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | | | | **Capital** | **Capital** | |
| **As of December 31, 2025** |<br>**Actual<br>Capital** |<br>**Required<br>Capital** |<br>**Excess<br>Amount** | **Actual<br>Percent** | **Required<br>Percent** | |
| **Bank:** | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) |  |  |  |
| Tier 1 capital (to average assets) | $1194054 | $548260 | $645794 | 8.71% | 4.00% |  |
| Common equity Tier 1 (to risk-weighted assets) | 1194054 | 724359 | 469695 | 11.54 | 7.00 | <sup>(1)</sup> |
| Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) | 1194054 | 879578 | 314476 | 11.54 | 8.50 | <sup>(1)</sup> |
| Total capital (to risk-weighted assets) | 1282441 | 1086538 | 195903 | 12.39 | 10.50 | <sup>(1)</sup> |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Includes the Capital Conservation Buffer of 2.50%.

<u>Prompt Corrective Action.</u> Federal law requires, among other things, that the federal bank regulatory authorities take prompt corrective action with respect to insured depository institutions that do not meet minimum capital requirements. For these purposes, the law establishes five categories: well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized, and critically undercapitalized. The FDIC's regulations define the five categories as follows:

An institution is classified as well capitalized if:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a leverage ratio of 5% or greater; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has common equity Tier 1 ratio of 6.5% or greater; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 8% or greater; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a total risk-based capital ratio of 10% or greater; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it is not subject to any written agreement, order or capital directive, or prompt corrective action directive issued by the OCC to meet and maintain a specific capital level for any capital measure.

An institution is classified as adequately capitalized if:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a leverage ratio of less than 4%; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a common equity Tier 1 ratio of 4.5% or greater; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6%; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a total risk-based capital ratio of 8% or greater.

An institution is classified as undercapitalized if:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a leverage ratio of less than 4%; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a common equity Tier 1 ratio of less than 4.5%; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 6%; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 8%.

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An institution is classified as significantly undercapitalized if:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a leverage ratio of less than 3%; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a common equity Tier 1 ratio of less than 3%; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 4%; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• it has a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 6%.

An institution that has a tangible capital to total assets ratio equal to or less than 2% is deemed to be critically undercapitalized.

The regulations provide that a capital restoration plan must be filed with the OCC within 45 days of the date a national bank receives notice that it is "undercapitalized," "significantly undercapitalized," or "critically undercapitalized." Any BHC for the bank required to submit a capital restoration plan must guarantee the lesser of an amount equal to 5.0% of the bank's assets at the time it was notified or deemed to be undercapitalized by the OCC, or the amount necessary to restore the bank to adequately capitalized status. Various restrictions, including as to growth and capital distributions, also apply to "undercapitalized" institutions. If an "undercapitalized" institution fails to submit an acceptable capital restoration plan, it is treated as "significantly undercapitalized." "Significantly undercapitalized" institutions must comply with one or more additional restrictions including, but not limited to: an order by the OCC to sell sufficient voting stock to become adequately capitalized; a requirement to reduce total assets, cease receipt of deposits from correspondent banks, or dismiss officers or directors; and limitations on interest rates paid on deposits, compensation of executive officers and capital distributions by the parent holding company. Critically undercapitalized institutions are subject to the appointment of a receiver or conservator. The OCC may also take any one of a number of discretionary supervisory actions against undercapitalized institutions, including the issuance of a capital directive.

Based on the regulatory guidelines, the Bank satisfies the criteria to be well-capitalized at December 31, 2025.

<u>Insurance of Deposit Accounts</u>. Deposit accounts at the Bank are insured by the DIF of the FDIC up to a maximum of $250,000 per separately insured depositor.

The FDIC charges insured depository institutions premiums to maintain the DIF. Under the FDIC's risk-based assessment system, institutions deemed less risky pay lower FDIC assessments. Assessments for institutions with $10 billion or more of assets are primarily based on a scorecard approach by the FDIC, including factors such as examination ratings and modeling measuring the institution's ability to withstand asset-related and funding-related stress and potential loss to the DIF should the bank fail.

Additionally, in 2023, the FDIC adopted a final rule, effective on April 1, 2024, to implement a special assessment over eight quarterly assessment periods to recover the loss to the DIF arising from the protection of uninsured depositors following the closures of two regional banks in the spring of 2023. Throughout the initial collection period, the FDIC collected the special assessment at a quarterly rate of 3.36 basis points, multiplied by an insured depository institution's estimated uninsured deposits as reported for the quarter that ended December 31, 2022, adjusted to exclude the first $5 billion. On December 16, 2025, the FDIC adopted an interim final rule, effective on December 19, 2025 (with comments due on or before January 20, 2026), to reduce the special assessment rate for the eighth collection quarter to 2.97 basis points and to provide an offset to regular quarterly deposit insurance assessments for banks subject to the special assessment if the total amount collected exceeds the estimated losses. If the final loss amounts exceed the amount collected, a one-time shortfall special assessment will be collected.

The FDIC has authority to increase insurance assessments. Any significant increases would have an adverse effect on the Bank's operating expenses and results of operations. The Bank cannot predict what assessment rates will be in the future.

The FDIC may terminate the insurance of an institution's deposits upon a finding that the institution has engaged in unsafe or unsound practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue operations or has violated any applicable law, regulation, rule, order, or condition imposed by the FDIC. The management of the Bank does not know of any practice, condition, or violation that might lead to termination of deposit insurance.

The total deposit insurance assessment expenses incurred in 2025 and 2024 were $10.5 million and $9.7 million, respectively. The expenses in 2025 and 2024 were impacted by the FDIC approval of the final rule to implement a special assessment as noted above. As a result, the Bank incurred a special assessment release of $210,000 and a special assessment fees of $418,000, which were included in the total deposit insurance assessment expenses for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. As of December 31, 2025, the Bank had incurred a total of $1.7 million in FDIC special assessment fees.

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<u>Loans to One Borrower</u>. Subject to certain exceptions, a national bank may not make a loan or extend credit to a single or related group of borrowers in excess of 15% of its unimpaired capital and surplus. An additional amount may be lent, equal to 10% of unimpaired capital and surplus, if secured by specified readily-marketable collateral, which generally does not include real estate. As of December 31, 2025, the Bank was in compliance with the loans-to-one borrower limitations.

<u>Limitation on Capital Distributions</u>*.* Applicable regulations impose limitations upon all capital distributions by a banking institution, including cash dividends, payments to repurchase its shares and payments to stockholders of another institution in a cash-out merger. Under the regulations, an application to and the approval of the OCC, is required prior to any capital distribution if the total capital distributions for the calendar year exceeds net income for that year plus the amount of retained net income for the preceding two years. A national bank may not pay a dividend if it would be undercapitalized following the distribution or the distribution would otherwise be contrary to a statute, regulation or agreement with the OCC. A national bank may be further limited in payment of cash dividends if it does not maintain the capital conservation buffer.

In the event the Bank's capital fell below its regulatory requirements or the OCC notified the Bank that it was in need of more than normal supervision, the Bank's ability to make capital distributions could be restricted. In addition, the OCC could prohibit a proposed capital distribution by any institution, which would otherwise be permitted by the regulation, if the OCC determines that such distribution would constitute an unsafe or unsound practice. If the Bank is unable for any reason to pay a dividend to the Company, the Company may not have the liquidity necessary to pay a dividend in the future, pay a dividend at the same rate as historically paid, be able to repurchase stock, or to meet current debt obligations. In addition, capital requirements made applicable to the Company as a result of the Dodd-Frank Act and Basel III may limit the Company's ability to pay dividends or repurchase stock in the future. The Company may also be required to receive non-objection letters prior to performing any actions that may impact the Company's capital.

<u>Assessments</u>*.* Banking institutions are required to pay OCC assessments to fund regulatory operations. The assessments, paid on a semi-annual basis, are based upon the institution's total assets, including consolidated subsidiaries as reported in the Bank's latest quarterly regulatory report, as well as the institution's regulatory rating and complexity component. The assessments paid by the Bank totaled $1.1 million and $1.3 million, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024. In September 2025, the OCC reduced assessment rates for regulated institutions by 30% for smaller banks (assets up to $40 billion), with these lower rates maintained for 2026.

<u>Transactions with Related Parties</u>. The Bank's authority to engage in transactions with affiliates (e.g., any company that controls or is under common control with an institution, including the Company and its non-bank subsidiaries) is limited by federal law. The aggregate amount of "covered transactions" with any individual affiliate is limited to 10% of the capital and surplus of the bank. The aggregate amount of "covered transactions" with all affiliates is limited to 20% of the bank's capital and surplus. Certain transactions with affiliates are required to be secured by collateral in an amount and of a type described in federal law. The purchase of low quality assets from affiliates is generally prohibited. Transactions with affiliates must generally be on terms and under circumstances that are substantially the same, or that are at least as favorable to the institution as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with or involving non-affiliated companies. In addition, banks are prohibited from lending to any affiliate that is engaged in activities that are not permissible for BHCs and no bank may purchase the securities of any affiliate other than a subsidiary.

<u>Community Reinvestment Act.</u> All national banks have a responsibility under the CRA and related federal regulations to help meet the credit needs of their communities, including low- and moderate- income neighborhoods. In connection with its examination of a national bank, the OCC is required to evaluate and rate the bank's record of compliance with the CRA. A national bank's failure to comply with the provisions of the CRA could, at a minimum, result in regulatory restrictions on certain of its activities such as branching or mergers.

In 2023, the FDIC, the FRB, and the OCC issued a final rule (the "2023 CRA Rule") to replace the CRA regulations adopted by the agencies in 1995 (the "1995 CRA Regulations"). The final rule was scheduled to take effect on April 1, 2024 and the applicability date for the majority of the provisions in the CRA regulations was January 1, 2026 with additional requirements applicable on January 1, 2027, but ongoing legal challenges have pushed back the implementation date and compliance deadlines. During the transition period, the 1995 CRA Regulations remain applicable. On July 16, 2025, the agencies issued a joint notice of proposed rulemaking to rescind the 2023 CRA Rule and replace it with the 1995 CRA Regulations, with certain conforming and technical amendments.

The Bank received a rating of "Outstanding" at its most recent CRA Performance Evaluation by the OCC, dated November 18, 2024, for the evaluation period from 2021 to 2023.

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<u>Fair Lending Law</u>. The Equal Credit Opportunity Act and the Fair Housing Act prohibit lenders from discriminating in their lending practices based on the characteristics specified in those statutes. A national bank's failure to comply with the provisions of the CRA could, at a minimum, result in regulatory restrictions on certain of its activities such as branching or mergers. The failure to comply with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and the Fair Housing Act could result in enforcement actions by the OCC, as well as other federal regulatory agencies and the Department of Justice.

On September 18, 2024, the Bank voluntarily entered into settlement agreements with the DOJ and HUD to resolve claims that the Bank violated the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and Fair Housing Act in the New Brunswick-Lakewood, New Jersey lending area, which includes Middlesex, Monmouth and Ocean counties. Under the Agreements, the Bank has committed to invest at least $14 million in a mortgage loan subsidy fund for eligible residents over a five-year period. The Bank also has agreed to invest $400,000 in community partnerships, $140,000 per year through each year of the Consent Order on advertising, outreach, consumer financial education, and credit counseling in the New Brunswick Lending Area, and provide financial education workshops designed to expand access to home mortgage credit. As of December 31, 2025, the Bank had spent $152,000 for community partnerships and $91,000 for marketing and advertising outreach. The Bank requested that the DOJ review the settlement agreement for termination based on the Bank's actions. HUD subsequently terminated its settlement agreement with the Bank by letter dated September 3, 2025.

**Federal Home Loan Bank System**

The Bank is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank System, which consists of 11 regional FHLBs. Each FHLB provides member institutions with a central credit facility. The Bank, as a member of the FHLB New York is required to acquire and hold shares of capital stock in that FHLB in a specified amount. The Bank was in compliance with this requirement with an investment in FHLB New York stock at December 31, 2025 and 2024 of $88.9 million and $68.4 million, respectively.

**Federal Reserve System**

As a national bank, the Bank is required to hold capital stock of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. The required shares may be adjusted up or down based on changes to the Bank's common stock and paid-in surplus. The Bank is in compliance with these requirements, with a total investment in Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia stock of $40.0 million and $39.8 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia pays dividends on the common stock held by the Bank. However, the level of dividends is reduced for financial institutions that exceed a certain asset size. For 2025, the asset level is $12.84 billion, and financial institutions whose assets exceed that level receive dividends generally equal to the rate of the 10-year Treasury note, which totaled $1.7 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024.

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| **Item 1A.** | **Risk Factors** |

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An investment in the Company's common stock involves risks. Stockholders should carefully consider the risks described below, together with other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and other documents filed with the SEC, including the Company's registration statement on Form S-4, before making any purchase or sale decisions regarding the Company's common stock. If any of the following risks actually occur, the Company's financial condition or operating results may be harmed. In that case, the trading price of the Company's common stock may decline and stockholders may lose part or all of their investment in the Company's common stock.

**Risk Factors Summary** 

The Company's material risk factors that could adversely affect the business, financial condition, and results of operations are categorized as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to the Pending Merger with Flushing and Investment from Warburg

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Lending Activities

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Economic Matters

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Interest Rates

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Acquisitions and Growth

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Loan Sales

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Laws and Regulations

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Dividend Payments

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Competition

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Strategic Matters

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Operational Matters

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Accounting and Internal Controls Matters

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Environmental and Other Global Matters

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks Related to Card Networks

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Other Risks Related to the Business

**Risks Related to the Pending Merger with Flushing and Investment from Warburg** 

<u>The market price of the Company's common stock after the Mergers may be affected by factors different from those currently affecting the shares of the Company's common stock.</u> As a result of the First Merger, certain adjustments may be made to the combined company's business as a result of the Mergers. Accordingly, the results of operations of the combined company and the market price of the Company's common stock after the completion of the Mergers may be affected by factors different from those currently affecting the independent results of operations of each of the Company and Flushing.

<u>Regulatory approvals may not be received, may take longer than expected, or may impose conditions that are not presently anticipated or that could have an adverse effect on the combined company following the Mergers.</u> Before the Mergers and the Bank Merger may be completed, the requisite approvals, consents and non-objections must be obtained from the FRB, OCC and NYDFS. Under the Investment Agreement, before the Investment by Warburg may be completed, Warburg must have received reasonably satisfactory oral confirmation from staff of the legal division of the FRB that the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Investment Agreement will not result in Warburg being deemed to have, or have acquired, "control" of the Company or any of its subsidiaries for purposes of the BHC Act or CIBC Act and the implementing regulations thereunder, either (a) individually or (b) as part of an "association" or group "acting in concert" with any other person with respect to the transactions contemplated by the Investment Agreement contemplated to occur at the Investment closing, as those terms are defined and interpreted by the FRB under Regulation Y (12 C.F.R. Part 225). Other approvals, waivers or consents from regulators may also be required, both for the Mergers and for the Investment.

In determining whether to grant these approvals and confirmations, such regulatory authorities consider a variety of factors. These approvals or confirmations could be delayed or not obtained at all, including due to (a) a party's regulatory standing (or adverse development in respect thereof), (b) any other factors considered by regulators when granting such approvals or confirmations, including governmental, political or community group inquiries, investigations or opposition, or (c) changes in legislation or the political environment generally.

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The approvals that are granted may impose terms and conditions, limitations, obligations or costs, or place restrictions on the conduct of the combined company's business or require changes to the terms of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or the Investment Agreement. There can be no assurance that regulators will not impose any such conditions, limitations, obligations or restrictions and that such conditions, limitations, obligations or restrictions will not have the effect of delaying or jeopardizing the completion of any of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or the Investment Agreement, imposing additional material costs on or materially limiting the revenues of the combined company following the Mergers or otherwise reducing the anticipated benefits of the Mergers (including the Investment and its inclusion as common equity tier 1 capital, assuming the Mergers and the Investment are consummated successfully and within the expected timeframe). In addition, there can be no assurance that any such conditions, limitations, obligations or restrictions will not result in abandonment of the Mergers and the Investment. Additionally, the completion of the Mergers and the Investment is conditioned on the absence of certain orders, injunctions or decrees by any governmental entity of competent jurisdiction that would prevent, prohibit or make illegal the completion of any of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or the Investment Agreement, as applicable.

The Company and Flushing have agreed in the Merger Agreement to use commercially reasonable efforts to (a) promptly prepare and file all necessary documentation, to effect all applications, notices, petitions and filings, to obtain as promptly as practicable all permits, consents, approvals and authorizations of all third parties and governmental entities which are necessary or advisable to consummate the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, and to comply with the terms and conditions of all such permits, consents, approvals and authorizations of all such governmental entities and (b) respond to any request for information and to resolve any objection that may be asserted by any governmental entity with respect to the Merger Agreement or the transactions contemplated thereby in each case in a reasonably prompt and timely matter, including the sale, divestiture or disposition of assets, properties or businesses of the Company, Flushing or their respective subsidiaries. However, under the terms of the Merger Agreement, neither the Company nor Flushing, nor any of their respective subsidiaries, is required or permitted (without the written consent of the other party), to take any action, or agree to any condition or restriction, in connection with obtaining the requisite regulatory approvals that would reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a material adverse effect (measured on a scale relative to the Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole) on the combined company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, after giving effect to the Mergers.

The Company and Warburg have agreed in the Investment Agreement to use reasonable best efforts to promptly prepare and file for all permits, consents, approvals, confirmations and authorizations of all third parties and governmental entities that are necessary or advisable to consummate the investment as promptly as reasonably practicable, and to respond to any request for information from any government authority related to the foregoing, so as to enable the parties to consummate the transactions contemplated by the Investment Agreement. However, under the terms of the Investment Agreement, neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries is permitted (without the written consent of the other party), and none of Warburg or any of their affiliates is required, to take any action, or commitment to take or refrain from taking any action, or acceptance or agreement to any condition or restriction, in each case, that would reasonably be expected to cause Warburg, its affiliates or any of their partners or principals to (a) "control" the Company or be required to become a bank holding company, in each case, pursuant to the BHC Act; (b) "control" the Company or be required to provide prior notice pursuant to the CIBC Act; (c) serve as a source of financial strength to the Company pursuant to the BHC Act; or (d) enter into any capital or liquidity maintenance agreement or any similar agreement with any governmental entity, provide capital support to the Company, Flushing or any of their respective subsidiaries or otherwise commit to or contribute any additional capital to, provide other funds to, or make any other investment in, the Company, Flushing or any of their respective subsidiaries.

<u>Consummation of the Mergers is conditioned upon the prior or concurrent closing of the Investment.</u> As a condition to the consummation of the Mergers, the Company must prior to or concurrently therewith consummate the purchase and sale of the Company's common stock and the Company's NVCE Stock by Warburg pursuant to the Investment Agreement. Although the Company has a legally binding agreement with Warburg pursuant to which Warburg has agreed to invest $225 million in the Company's qualifying equity securities substantially concurrently with the Merger closing, the obligation of Warburg to make such Investment is subject to various conditions. Failure to consummate (or a delay in consummating) the Investment may cause the failure or delay in the ability of the parties to consummate the Mergers.

<u>Failure to consummate the Mergers and Investment could negatively impact the Company.</u> The consummation of the Mergers is subject to the receipt of requisite regulatory and requisite stockholder approvals and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions, including the substantially concurrent consummation of the Investment. If the Mergers are not completed for any reason, including as a result of the Company's stockholders or Flushing's stockholders failing to grant the applicable requisite stockholder approval at the applicable company's special stockholders meeting or the imposition of a materially burdensome regulatory condition resulting in either the Company or Flushing refusing to consummate the Mergers, there may be various adverse consequences and the Company may experience negative reactions from the financial markets and from their customers and employees. For example, the Company's business may each be impacted adversely by the failure to pursue other beneficial

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opportunities due to the focus of management on the Mergers, without realizing any of the anticipated benefits of consummating the Mergers.

Additionally, if the Merger Agreement is terminated, the market price of the Company's common stock could decline to the extent that current market prices reflect a market assumption that the Mergers and/or the Investment will be beneficial and will be consummated. The Company or Flushing also could be subject to litigation related to any failure to complete the Mergers or, in the case of the Company, the Investment or to proceedings commenced against the Company or Flushing to perform its obligations under the Merger Agreement or, in the case of the Company, the Investment Agreement. If the Merger Agreement is terminated under certain circumstances, either party may be required to pay a termination fee equal to $21.4 million to the other party. If the Company receives a termination fee from Flushing, it may be required to remit a portion of that fee to Warburg. The Merger Agreement also provides that the Company will be required to pay Flushing a termination fee equal to $46.3 million under certain circumstances where the Merger Agreement is terminated due to the Investment not being consummated.

Additionally, the Company has incurred and will incur substantial expenses in connection with the negotiation and completion of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement and the Investment Agreement, as well as the costs and expenses of preparing, filing, printing and mailing of a joint proxy statement/prospectus in connection with the Mergers, and all filing and other fees paid in connection with the Mergers. If the Mergers and/or the Investment are not completed, the Company and Flushing would have to pay these expenses without realizing the expected benefits of the Mergers and/or the Investment, as applicable. Although the Company or Flushing may be entitled to receive a termination fee from the other party if the Merger Agreement is terminated under certain circumstances, (a) such payments may not be sufficient to fully compensate the Company for the losses it may incur in connection with a failure of the Mergers to be consummated and (b) the Company may be required to remit a portion of the termination fee it receives to Warburg.

<u>Combining the Company and Flushing may be more difficult, costly or time-consuming than expected, and the combined company may fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the Mergers.</u> The success of the Mergers will depend, in part, on the anticipated cost savings from combining the businesses of the Company and Flushing. To realize certain anticipated benefits and cost savings from the Mergers, the Company and Flushing must successfully integrate and combine their businesses in a manner that permits those benefits and cost savings to be realized without adversely affecting current revenues and future growth. If the Company and Flushing are not able to successfully achieve these objectives, such anticipated benefits and cost savings of the Mergers may not be realized fully or at all or may take longer to realize than expected. In addition, the actual cost savings of the Mergers could be less than anticipated, and integration may result in additional and unforeseen expenses.

An inability to realize the full extent of the anticipated benefits of the Mergers and the other transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, as well as any delays encountered in the integration process, could have an adverse effect upon the capital position, revenues, levels of expenses and operating results of the combined company following the completion of the Mergers, which may adversely affect the value of the common stock of the combined company following the completion of the Mergers.

<u>The Company and Flushing have operated and, until the completion of the Mergers, must continue to operate independently.</u> It is possible that the integration process could result in the loss of key employees, the disruption of each company's ongoing businesses or inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies that adversely affect the companies' ability to maintain relationships with their stakeholders or to achieve the anticipated benefits and cost savings of the Mergers. Integration efforts between the companies may also divert management attention and resources. These integration matters could have an adverse effect on the Company during this pre-closing period and for an undetermined period after consummation of the Mergers on the combined company.

Furthermore, the board of directors and executive leadership of the combined company and the surviving bank will consist of former directors and executive officers from each of the Company and Flushing, as well as the Warburg director. Combining the boards of directors and management teams of each company into a single board of directors and a single management team could require the reconciliation of differing priorities and philosophies.

<u>The combined company may be unable to retain the Company's and/or Flushing's personnel successfully after the Mergers are completed.</u> The success of the Mergers will depend, in part, on the combined company's ability to retain the talent and dedication of key employees currently employed by the Company and Flushing. It is possible that these employees may decide not to remain with the Company or Flushing, as applicable, while the Mergers are pending or with the combined company after the Mergers are consummated. If the Company and Flushing are unable to retain key employees, including management, who are critical to the successful integration and future operations of the companies, the Company could face disruptions in their operations, loss of existing customers, loss of key information, expertise or know-how and unanticipated additional recruitment costs. In addition, following the Mergers, if key employees terminate their employment, the combined company's business activities may be adversely affected, and management's attention may be diverted from successfully hiring suitable

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replacements, all of which may cause the combined company's business to suffer. The Company and Flushing also may not be able to locate or retain suitable replacements for any key employees who leave either company.

<u>The Company and Flushing will be subject to business uncertainties and contractual restrictions while the Mergers are pending.</u> Uncertainty about the effect of the Mergers on employees and customers may have an adverse effect on the Company. These uncertainties may impair the Company's or Flushing's ability to retain and motivate key personnel until the Mergers are completed and could cause customers and others that deal with the Company or Flushing to seek to change existing business relationships with the Company or Flushing. In addition, subject to certain exceptions, each of the Company and Flushing has agreed to operate its business in the ordinary course in all material respects and to refrain from taking certain actions that may adversely affect its ability to (a) consummate the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement on a timely basis without the consent of the other party and (b) in the case of the Company, obtain any necessary approvals of any governmental entity in connection with the Investment without the consent of Warburg. These restrictions may prevent the Company or Flushing from pursuing attractive business opportunities that may arise prior to the completion of the Mergers.

<u>The Company and Flushing have incurred, and the combined company is expected to incur substantial costs related to the Mergers and integration.</u> The Company and Flushing have incurred and expect to incur a number of non-recurring costs associated with the Mergers and the Investment. These costs include legal, financial, accounting, consulting and other advisory fees, retention, severance and employee benefit-related costs, public company filing fees and other regulatory fees, financial printing and other printing costs, closing, integration and other related costs. Some of these costs are payable by the Company and/or Flushing regardless of whether the Mergers are completed.

In addition, the combined company will incur integration costs following the completion of the Mergers as the Company and Flushing integrate their businesses, including facilities and systems consolidation costs and employment-related costs. The Company and Flushing may also incur additional costs to maintain employee morale and to retain key employees. There are many processes, policies, procedures, operations, technologies and systems that may need to be integrated, including purchasing, accounting and finance, payroll, compliance, treasury management, branch operations, vendor management, risk management, lines of business, pricing and benefits. While the Company and Flushing have assumed that a certain level of costs will be incurred, there are many factors beyond their control that could affect the total amount or the timing of the integration costs. Moreover, many of the costs that will be incurred are, by their nature, difficult to estimate accurately. These integration costs may result in the combined company taking charges against earnings following the completion of the Mergers, and the amount and timing of such charges are uncertain at present. There can be no assurances that the expected benefits and efficiencies related to the integration of the businesses will be realized to offset these transaction and integration costs over time.

<u>Stockholder litigation related to the Mergers and/or the Investment could prevent or delay the completion of the Mergers and/or the Investment, result in the payment of damages or otherwise negatively impact the business and operations of the Company or Flushing.</u> Stockholders may bring claims in connection with the Mergers and/or the Investment and, among other remedies, may seek damages or an injunction preventing the Mergers and/or the Investment from closing. If any plaintiff were successful in obtaining an injunction prohibiting the Company or Flushing from completing the Mergers or any other transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or the Company and Warburg from consummating the Investment (or any portion thereof), then such injunction may delay or prevent the effectiveness of the Mergers and the Investment and could result in costs to the Company or Flushing, including costs in connection with the defense or settlement of any stockholder lawsuits filed in connection with the Mergers and/or the Investment. Further, such lawsuits and the defense or settlement of any such lawsuits may have an adverse effect on the financial condition and results of operations of the Company, Flushing or the combined company.

<u>The Merger Agreement may be terminated in accordance with its terms, and the Mergers may not be consummated.</u> The obligation of the Merger Agreement parties to consummate the first Merger is subject to a number of conditions that must be satisfied or waived in order to consummate the Mergers. Those conditions include, among other things: (a) receiving the requisite Company and Flushing stockholder approvals of certain matters relating to the Mergers at each company's respective special stockholders meeting; (b) the authorization for listing on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, subject to official notice of issuance, of the shares of the Company's common stock to be issued pursuant to the Merger Agreement, (c) the receipt of the requisite regulatory approvals and that no requisite regulatory approval contains any materially burdensome regulatory condition; (d) the absence of any order, injunction, decree or other legal restraint preventing the consummation of the Mergers, the Bank Merger or any of the other transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or making the completion of the Merger, the Bank Merger or any of the other transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement illegal; (e) the registration statement filed by the Company relating to the Company's common stock to be issued in the First Merger being declared effective by the SEC under the Securities Act and not withdrawn; and (f) the consummation of the investment concurrently with the closing of the Mergers. Each party's obligation to consummate the Mergers is also subject to certain additional conditions, including: (i) subject to applicable materiality standards, the accuracy of the representations and warranties of the other party

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(including the absence of any material adverse effect, as defined in the Merger Agreement); (ii) the performance in all material respects by the other party of its obligations under the Merger Agreement; and (iii) the receipt by each party of an opinion from its counsel to the effect that the Mergers will qualify as a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code.

These conditions to the consummation of the first Merger may not be satisfied or waived in a timely manner or at all, and, accordingly, the Mergers may not be consummated. In addition, the parties can mutually decide to terminate the Merger Agreement at any time, before or after the requisite stockholder approvals, or Flushing or the Company may elect to terminate the Merger Agreement in certain other circumstances.

<u>The Investment Agreement may be terminated in accordance with its respective terms and the Investment may not be consummated.</u> The obligation of the parties to the Investment Agreement to consummate the Investment is subject to a number of conditions which must be satisfied or waived in order to consummate the Investment. Those conditions include, among other things: (a) all of the conditions to the Merger closing will have been satisfied or waived, other than the investment condition and those conditions that by their nature can only be satisfied or waived at the Merger closing (but subject to such conditions then being satisfied or waived), (b) the first Merger will have been consummated, or will be consummated substantially concurrently with the Investment closing, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement; (c) Warburg must have received reasonably satisfactory oral confirmation from staff of the legal division of the FRB that the consummation of the Investment will not result in Warburg being deemed to have, or to have acquired, "control" of the Company or any of its subsidiaries for purposes of the BHC Act or CIBC Act; and (d) the absence of any order, injunction, decree or other legal restraint preventing the completion of the Investment or making the completion of the Investment or any of the other transactions contemplated by the Investment Agreement illegal. Each party's obligation to consummate the Investment is also subject to certain additional customary conditions, including (i) subject to applicable materiality standards, the accuracy of the representations and warranties of the other party, and (ii) the performance in all material respects by the other party of its obligations under the Investment Agreement.

These conditions to the consummation of the Investment may not be satisfied or waived in a timely manner or at all, and, accordingly, the Investment may not be consummated. In addition, the parties to the Investment Agreement can mutually decide to terminate the Investment Agreement at any time, before or after the requisite stockholder approvals, or the parties may elect to terminate the Investment Agreement in certain other circumstances.

<u>The announcement of the Mergers could disrupt the Company's and Flushing's relationships with their employees, customers, suppliers, business partners and others, as well as their operating results and business generally.</u> Whether or not the Mergers are ultimately consummated, as a result of uncertainty related to the proposed transactions, risks relating to the impact of the announcement of the Mergers on the Company's and Flushing's business include the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• their employees may experience uncertainty about their future roles, which might adversely affect the Company's and Flushing's ability to retain and hire key personnel and other employees;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• customers, suppliers, business partners and other parties with which the Company and Flushing maintain business relationships may experience uncertainty about their future and seek alternative relationships with third parties, seek to alter their business relationships with the Company and Flushing or fail to extend existing relationships with the Company and Flushing; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Company and Flushing have each expended and will continue to expend significant costs, fees and expenses for professional services and transaction costs in connection with the Mergers.

If any of the aforementioned risks were to materialize, they could lead to significant costs which may impact each party's results of operations and financial condition.

<u>The Merger Agreement limits the Company's abilities to pursue alternatives to the Mergers and may discourage other companies from trying to acquire Company.</u> The Merger Agreement contains "no shop" covenants that restrict the Company's ability to, directly or indirectly, among other things, initiate, solicit, knowingly encourage or knowingly facilitate inquiries or proposals with respect to, or, subject to certain exceptions generally related to the exercise of fiduciary duties by each respective board of directors, engage or participate in any negotiations concerning, or provide any confidential or nonpublic information or data relating to, any alternative acquisition proposals, subject to certain exceptions. These provisions, which could result in a $21.4 million termination fee payable under certain circumstances, may discourage a potential third-party acquirer that might have an interest in acquiring all or a significant part of the Company or Flushing from considering or making that acquisition proposal.

<u>Issuance of shares of the Company's common stock in connection with the Mergers and the Investment may adversely affect the market price of the Company's common stock.</u> In connection with the payment of the Merger consideration, based on the number of shares of Flushing common stock outstanding or reserved for issuance, the Company expects to issue approximately

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11.4 million shares of the Company's common stock and NVCE Stock to the holders of Flushing restricted stock unit awards in the aggregate in the first Merger. In addition, in connection with the Investment, the Company expects to issue approximately 9.5 million shares of the Company's common stock to Warburg. The issuance of these new shares of the Company's common stock may result in fluctuations in the market price of the Company's common stock, including a stock price decrease.

**Risks Related to Lending Activities**

<u>The Company's emphasis on commercial lending may expose the Company to increased lending risks</u>. At December 31, 2025, $7.63 billion, or 69.2%, of the Company's total loans consisted of commercial real estate, multi-family real estate, construction and land loans, and commercial and industrial loans. These portfolios have grown in recent years and the Company intends to continue to emphasize these types of lending. These types of loans may expose a lender to greater risk of non-payment and loss than residential real estate loans because repayment of the loans often depends on the successful operation of the property or the borrower's business and the income stream of the borrowers. Such loans typically involve larger loan balances to single borrowers or groups of related borrowers compared to residential real estate loans. These loans expose the Company to greater credit risk than loans secured by residential real estate because the collateral securing these loans typically cannot be liquidated as easily as residential real estate. If the Company forecloses on these loans, the holding period for the collateral typically is longer than for a single or multifamily residential property because there are fewer potential purchasers of the collateral. Commercial and industrial loans are typically affected by the borrowers' ability to repay the loans from the cash flows of their businesses. These loans may involve greater risk because the availability of funds to repay each loan depends substantially on the success of the business itself. The collateral securing the loans and leases often depreciates over time, is difficult to appraise and liquidate and fluctuates in value based on the success of the business.

<u>The level of commercial real estate loans may subject the Company to additional regulatory scrutiny.</u> The OCC and the other federal bank regulatory agencies have promulgated guidance on sound risk management practices for financial institutions with concentrations in commercial real estate loans. Under the guidance, a financial institution that, like the Bank, is actively involved in commercial real estate lending should perform a risk assessment to identify concentrations. A financial institution may be subject to this guidance if, among other factors, (i) total reported loans for construction, land acquisition and development and other land represent 100% or more of total capital and the outstanding balance of a financial institution's commercial real estate loan portfolio has increased 50% or more during the prior 36 months, or (ii) total reported loans secured by multi-family and non-farm residential properties, loans for construction, land acquisition and development and other land, and loans otherwise sensitive to the general commercial real estate market, including loans to commercial real estate related entities, represent 300% or more of total capital. Based on these factors, the Bank has a concentration in multi-family and commercial real estate lending, as such loans represented 433% of total bank capital as of December 31, 2025. The guidance focuses on exposure to commercial real estate loans that are dependent on the cash flows from the real estate held as collateral and that are likely to be at greater risk to conditions in the commercial real estate market (as opposed to real estate collateral held as a secondary source of repayment or in an abundance of caution). The guidance assists banks in developing risk management practices and determining capital levels commensurate with the level and nature of real estate concentrations. The guidance states that management should employ heightened risk management practices including board and management oversight and strategic planning, development of underwriting standards, risk assessment and monitoring through market analysis and stress testing. While it is management's belief that policies and procedures with respect to the Bank's commercial real estate loan portfolio have been implemented consistent with this guidance, bank regulators could require that additional policies and procedures be implemented that may result in additional costs or that may result in the curtailment of commercial real estate and multi-family lending that would adversely affect the Company's loan originations and profitability.

<u>The Company's concentrations of loans in certain industries could have adverse effects on credit quality.</u> As of December 31, 2025, the Company's commercial real estate - investor loan portfolio included loans to: (i) lessors of office buildings of $1.1 billion, or 10% of total loans; and (ii) borrowers in the retail industry of $1.1 billion, or 10% of total loans. A deterioration within these industries, especially those that have been particularly adversely impacted by long-term work-from-home arrangements on the commercial real estate sector, including retail stores, hotels and office buildings, creates greater risk exposure for the Company's commercial real estate loan portfolio. Should the fundamentals of the commercial real estate market deteriorate, the Company's financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.

<u>Uncertainties associated with increased originations of commercial real estate, construction, multi-family and commercial and industrial loans may result in errors in judging collectability, which may lead to additional provisions for credit losses or charge-offs, which would negatively affect the Company's operations.</u> The recent and intended increases in the level of commercial lending (including commercial real estate, multi-family real estate and land loans, and commercial and industrial loans) have required and would likely require the Company to lend to borrowers with which the Company has limited or no experience. Recently originated loans are unseasoned and the Company does not have a significant payment history pattern with which to judge future collectability. Further, newly originated loans may not have been subjected to unfavorable economic conditions. As a result, it may be difficult to predict the future performance of newly originated loans. These loans may have

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delinquency or charge-off levels above recent historical experience, which could adversely affect the Company's future performance. Further, these types of loans generally have larger balances and involve a greater risk than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. Accordingly, if the Company makes any errors in judgment in the collectability of these loans, any resulting charge-offs may be larger on a per loan basis than those incurred historically with the single-family residential mortgage loans.

<u>The Dodd-Frank Act imposes obligations on originators of residential mortgage loans, which if not followed could lead to loan losses, litigation-related expenses, and delays in taking title to real estate collateral in a foreclosure</u>. Among other things, the Dodd-Frank Act requires originators to make a reasonable and good faith determination based on documented information that a borrower has a reasonable ability to repay a particular mortgage loan over the long term. If the originator cannot meet this standard, the burden is on the lender to demonstrate the appropriateness of its policies and the strength of its controls. The Dodd-Frank Act contains an exception from this Ability-To-Repay rule for "Qualified Mortgages." Applicable rules set forth specific underwriting criteria for a loan to qualify as a Qualified Mortgage. If a loan meets these criteria and is not a "higher priced loan" as defined in FRB regulations, the CFPB rule establishes a safe harbor preventing a consumer from asserting the failure of the originator to establish the consumer's Ability-To-Repay. However, a consumer may assert the lender's failure to comply with the Ability-To-Repay rule for all residential mortgage loans other than Qualified Mortgages, and may challenge whether a loan actually met the criteria to be deemed an Ability-to-Pay Qualified Mortgage. These challenges have yet to be addressed by the courts.

Although the majority of residential mortgages historically originated by the Company would be considered Qualified Mortgages, the Company currently originates residential mortgage loans that do not meet the definition. As a result of the Ability-to-Repay rules, the Company may experience loan losses, litigation-related expenses, and delays in taking title to real estate collateral in a foreclosure proceeding if these loans do not perform and borrowers challenge whether the Company satisfied the Ability-To-Repay rule upon originating the loan.

<u>The Company's allowance for credit losses may be inadequate, which could hurt the Company's earnings</u>. The Company's allowance for credit losses may prove to be inadequate to cover actual credit losses. If the Company is required to increase its allowance, current earnings may be reduced. The Company provides for losses by reserving what it believes to be an adequate amount to absorb any estimated lifetime expected credit losses. The Company also makes various assumptions and judgments about the collectability of loans in the portfolio, including the creditworthiness of borrowers, the strength of the economy and the value of the real estate and other assets serving as collateral for the repayment of loans. In determining the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses, the Company relies on its historic loss experience and the evaluation of economic conditions and other qualitative factors. If the assumptions prove to be incorrect and the Company's allowance was insufficient, it would be required to record a provision, which would reduce earnings for that period. Changes to the economic forecasts within the model could positively or negatively impact the calculation of the allowance. In addition, regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, may require additions to the allowance based on their judgment about information available to them at the time of their examination. Any increase in the allowance for credit losses, or expenses incurred to determine the appropriate level of the allowance for credit losses, may have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition and results of operations.

<u>The performance of New York City multifamily real estate loans could be adversely impacted by regulation</u>. In 2019, New York enacted legislation increasing the restrictions on rent increases in a rent-regulated apartment building, including, among other provisions, (1) repealing the vacancy bonus and longevity bonus, which allowed a property owner to raise rents as much as 20% each time a rental unit became vacant, (2) eliminating high rent vacancy deregulation and high-income deregulation, which allowed a rental unit to be removed from rent stabilization once it crossed a statutory high-rent threshold and became vacant, or the tenant's income exceeded the statutory amount in the preceding two years, and (iii) eliminating an exception that allowed a property owner who offered preferential rents to tenants to raise the rent to the full legal rent upon renewal. This legislation generally limits a landlord's ability to increase rents on rent-regulated apartments and makes it more difficult to convert rent- regulated apartments to market rate apartments. For example, the New York City Rent Guidelines Board established that on certain apartments, for a one-year lease beginning on or after September 30, 2024, the maximum rent increase is 3.0%, even though the overall inflation rate increased at a higher rate. Further restrictions on rent-regulated properties may be enacted or existing restrictions strengthened as a result of the results of the recent New York City mayoral election. As a result, the value of the collateral located in New York securing multifamily loans or the future net operating income of such properties could potentially become impaired. At December 31, 2025, the total multifamily rent regulated exposure in New York was approximately $28 million, or 0.19%, of the Company's total assets.

<u>The foreclosure process m</u><u>ay adversely impact the Company's recoveries on non-performing loans</u>. The judicial foreclosure process is protracted, especially in New Jersey, where foreclosure timelines remain among the longest in the nation, which delays the Company's ability to resolve non-performing loans through the sale of the underlying collateral. The longer timelines

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have been the result of the economic environment, additional consumer protection initiatives related to the foreclosure process, increased documentary requirements and judicial scrutiny, and, both voluntary and mandatory programs under which lenders may consider loan modifications or other alternatives to foreclosure. These reasons and the legal and regulatory responses have impacted the foreclosure process and completion time of foreclosures for residential mortgage lenders. This may result in a material adverse effect on collateral values and the Company's ability to minimize its losses.

**Risks Related to Economic Matters**

<u>Inflation can have an adverse impact on the</u> <u>Company</u><u>'s business and its customers.</u> Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. In addition, inflation generally increases the cost of goods and services the Company uses in its business operations, such as electricity and other utilities, and also generally increases employee wages, any of which can increase the Company's non-interest expenses. Furthermore, the Company's customers are also affected by inflation and the rising costs of goods and services used in their households and businesses, which could have a negative impact on their ability to repay their loans with the Company.

<u>A worsening of economic conditions in the</u> <u>Company</u><u>'s market areas could reduce demand for the products and services and/or result in increases in the level of non-performing loans, which could adversely affect the</u> <u>Company's</u> <u>business, financial condition, and results of operations.</u> A deterioration in economic conditions, especially local conditions, continued inflation, tariff wars, increased unemployment, recession or otherwise, could have the following consequences, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations, and could more negatively affect the Company:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• demand for the products and services may decline;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the allowance for credit losses may increase;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• loan delinquencies, problem assets, and foreclosures may increase;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Low cost or non-interest-bearing deposits may decrease;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Inflation may accelerate, which may increase operating costs and also may increase real estate costs and lower customer buying power, thereby reducing loan demand;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of securities portfolio may decrease;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• collateral for loans, especially real estate, may decline in value, thereby reducing customers' borrowing power, and reducing the value of assets and collateral associated with existing loans; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the net worth and liquidity of loan guarantors may decline, impairing their ability to honor commitments.

Moreover, a significant decline in general economic conditions caused by inflation, tariffs, recession, acts of terrorism, civil unrest, an outbreak of hostilities or other international or domestic calamities, an epidemic or pandemic, unemployment or other factors beyond the Company's control could further impact these local economic conditions and could further negatively affect the financial results of banking operations. In addition, deflationary pressures, while possibly lowering operating costs, could have a significant negative effect on borrowers, especially business borrowers, and the values of underlying collateral securing loans, which could negatively affect financial performance.

<u>A downturn in economic conditions or in real estate values in the Bank's market areas could adversely impact profits</u>. Most of the Bank's loans are secured by real estate and are made to borrowers throughout New Jersey and the major metropolitan areas from Massachusetts through Virginia. A return of recessionary conditions and/or negative developments in the domestic and international credit markets may significantly affect the markets in which the Company does its business, the value of loans, investments, and collateral securing loans and classified assets, reduce the demand for the Company's products and services, and/or the adversely impact ongoing operations, costs and profitability. Any of these negative events could increase the amount of non-performing loans and cause residential and commercial real estate loans to become inadequately collateralized, any of which could expose the Company to a greater risk of loss and may adversely affect the Company's capital, liquidity and financial conditions.

<u>The failure to address the federal debt ceiling in a timely manner, downgrades of the U.S. credit rating and uncertain credit and financial market conditions may affect the stability of securities issued or guaranteed by the federal government, which may affect the valuation or liquidity of the investment securities portfolio and increase future borrowing costs</u>. As a result of uncertain political, credit and financial market conditions, including the potential consequences of the federal government defaulting on its obligations for a period of time due to federal debt ceiling limitations or other unresolved political issues, investments in financial instruments issued or guaranteed by the federal government pose credit default and liquidity risks. Given that future deterioration in the U.S. credit and financial markets is a possibility, losses or significant deterioration in the fair value of the U.S. government issued or guaranteed investments may occur. Downgrades to the U.S. credit rating could affect the stability of securities issued or guaranteed by the federal government and the valuation or liquidity of the portfolio of such investment securities, and could result in the Company's counterparties requiring additional collateral for borrowings.

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Further, unless and until U.S. political, credit and financial market conditions have been sufficiently resolved or stabilized, it may increase the Company's future borrowing costs.

<u>Another prolonged U.S. government shutdown or a default by the U.S. on government obligations could harm the Company's results of operations</u>. The Company's results of operations, including revenue, non-interest income, expenses and net interest income, would be adversely affected in the event of widespread financial and business disruption on account of a default by the United States on U.S. government obligations or a prolonged failure to maintain significant U.S. government operations.

<u>Significant changes to the size, structure, powers and operations of the federal government, changes to U.S. economic policies, and uncertainties regarding the potential for these changes may cause economic disruptions that could, in turn, adversely impact the Company's business, results of operations and financial condition</u>. The current U.S. administration has implemented significant changes in federal priorities and has taken steps to change the operations, structure, and policy focus of various federal agencies, as well as regulatory priorities, policy approaches and interpretations of existing laws by those federal agencies. For example, recent executive actions and proposed legislation has changed agency mandates, modified or reduced federal program funding, altered regulatory frameworks, or adjusted the size and composition of the federal workforce. Moreover, leadership transitions at key federal agencies have impacted or may impact rulemaking, supervision, enforcement, and examination priorities across the financial regulatory landscape. These developments in the federal government may have varying effects on the banking and financial services industry that are difficult to predict, which makes it difficult for the Company to anticipate and mitigate attendant risks. Compliance with changing federal and regulatory priorities could, among other things, increase the costs of operating business, reduce the demand for products and services, impact the Company's ability to achieve business goals, and increase legal, operational and reputational risks, any or all of which could materially adversely affect the Company's results of operations.

The current U.S. administration also has implemented rapid shifts in macroeconomic policies, such as those relating to trade restrictions and tariffs, which have created significant uncertainties regarding U.S. economic growth, the potential for recession, and concerns over an increase in inflation. Slow economic growth, economic contraction or recession, or shifts in broader consumer and business trends would significantly impact the Company's ability to originate loans, the ability of borrowers to repay loans, and the value of the collateral securing loans.

Other political and economic events within the United States, including a contentious domestic political environment, changes in or disagreements over U.S. monetary policy and actions of the Federal Reserve System, disagreements over long-term federal budget and deficit reduction plans, disagreements over, or threats not to increase, the U.S. government's borrowing limit (or "debt ceiling"), and risk of further downgrade of the ratings of U.S. government debt obligations, also may negatively impact financial markets and the U.S. economy.

Further, the perception of the potential for additional, significant changes in federal regulatory or economic policy also has increased uncertainty and may exacerbate declines in investor and consumer confidence, which in turn may adversely impact financial markets and the broader economy of the U.S.

Regional business and economic conditions are a major driver of the Company's results of operations. Difficult conditions in the regional business and economic environment, including those caused by the lack of stability and predictability of U.S. policymaking, may materially adversely affect the Company's operating expenses, the quality of its assets, credit losses, and the demand for its products and services.

**Risks Related to Interest Rates**

<u>Changes in interest rates could adversely affect results of operations and financial condition</u>. The Company's ability to make a profit largely depends on net interest income, which could be negatively affected by changes in interest rates. The Company's interest-bearing liabilities generally have shorter contractual maturities than its interest-earning assets. Furthermore, the rates earned on other interest-earning assets and the rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities are generally fixed for a contractual period of time. This imbalance can create significant earnings volatility as market interest rates change over time. Generally, in a period of declining interest rates, the interest income the Company earns on its interest-earning assets may decrease more rapidly than the interest it pays on interest-bearing liabilities. Conversely, in a period of rising interest rates, the interest income earned on interest-earning assets may not increase as rapidly as the interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities, which would be expected to compress the interest rate spread and have a negative effect on the Company's profitability. Additionally, a flat or an inverted yield curve, where short-term rates are close to, or above, long-term rates, could adversely affect the Company's financial condition and results of operations.

In addition, changes in interest rates can affect the average life of loans and investment securities. A reduction in interest rates causes increased prepayments of loans and mortgage-backed securities as borrowers refinance their debt to reduce their

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borrowing costs. This creates reinvestment risk, which is the risk that the Company may not be able to reinvest the funds from faster prepayments at rates that are comparable to the rates earned on the prepaid loans or securities. Conversely, an increase in interest rates generally reduces prepayments. Additionally, increases in interest rates may decrease loan demand and/or make it more difficult for borrowers to repay adjustable-rate loans.

Changes in interest rates may also affect the current estimated fair value of the securities portfolio. Generally, the value of securities moves inversely with changes in interest rates. Unrealized net losses on securities available-for-sale are reported as a separate component of stockholders' equity. To the extent interest rates increase and the value of the available-for-sale portfolio decreases, stockholders' equity will be adversely affected.

<u>Changes in the estimated fair value of debt securities may reduce stockholders' equity and net income</u>. At December 31, 2025, the Company maintained a debt securities portfolio of $2.11 billion, of which $1.23 billion was classified as available-for-sale. The estimated fair value of the available-for-sale debt securities portfolio may change depending on the credit quality of the underlying issuer, market liquidity, changes in interest rates and other factors. Stockholders' equity increases or decreases by the amount of the change in the unrealized gain or loss (difference between the estimated fair value and the amortized cost) of the available-for-sale debt securities portfolio, net of the related tax expense or benefit, under the category of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). During the year ended December 31, 2025, the Company incurred other comprehensive gains of $13.3 million, net of tax, related to net changes in unrealized holding gains in the available-for-sale investment securities portfolio, which positively impacted stockholders' equity, as well as book value per common share. The increase occurred even though the securities are not sold.

The Company conducts a periodic review of the debt securities portfolio to determine if any decline in the estimated fair value of any security below its cost basis is considered impaired. Factors which are considered in the analysis include, but are not limited to, the extent to which the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis, the financial condition, credit rating and future prospects of the issuer, whether the debtor is current on contractually obligated interest and principal payments and the Company's intent and ability to retain the security for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value and the likelihood of any near-term fair value recovery. If such decline is deemed to be uncollectible, the security is written down to a new cost basis and the resulting loss will be recognized as a securities provision for credit losses through an allowance for securities credit losses.

<u>Hedging against interest rate exposure may adversely affect the Company's earnings</u>. On occasion the Company has employed various financial risk methodologies that limit, or "hedge," the adverse effects of rising or decreasing interest rates on the loan portfolios and short-term liabilities. The Company also engages in hedging strategies with respect to arrangements where customers swap floating-rate obligations for fixed-rate obligations, or vice versa. The hedging activity varies based on the level and volatility of interest rates and other changing market conditions. Interest rate hedging may fail to protect the Company from loss. Moreover, hedging activities could result in losses if the event against which the Company hedges does not occur. Additionally, interest rate hedging could fail to protect the Company or adversely affect the Company because, among other things:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• available interest rate hedging may not correspond directly with the interest rate risk for which protection is sought;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the duration of the hedge may not match the duration of the related liability;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the party owing money in the hedging transaction may default on its obligation to pay;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the credit quality of the party owing money on the hedge may be downgraded to such an extent that it impairs the ability to sell or assign the Company's side of the hedging transaction;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the value of derivatives used for hedging may be adjusted from time to time in accordance with accounting rules to reflect changes in fair value; and/or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• downward adjustments, or "mark-to-market" losses, would reduce the Company's stockholders' equity.

**Risks Related to Acquisitions and Growth**

<u>The failure to successfully integrate the operations and retain the customers of its acquired institutions may adversely affect the Company's results of operations</u>. The Company has historically acquired financial institutions and other service companies and continues to explore acquisition opportunities. Future results of operations will depend in large part on the Company's ability to successfully integrate the operations of the institutions it acquires, retain the employees and customers of those institutions and achieve the level of expected cost savings and revenue growth. If the Company is unable to successfully manage the integration of the separate cultures, employee and customer bases and operating systems of the institutions it acquires, the Company's results of operations may be adversely affected.

<u>The Company's failure to successfully manage its growth may adversely impact its financial condition and results of operation.</u> The Company may not successfully manage its business as a result of the strain on management and operations that may result from growth. Success will also depend on the ability of officers and key employees to continue to implement and improve

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operational and other systems, to manage multiple, concurrent customer relationships and to retain, hire, train and manage skilled employees and to build market share in its existing and new market areas.

In order to successfully manage substantial growth, the Company may need to increase non-interest expenses through additional hires, additional leasehold and data processing costs, and other infrastructure costs. In order to successfully manage growth, the Company may need to adopt and effectively implement new or revise existing policies, procedures and controls to maintain credit quality, control costs and oversee the Company's operations. No assurance can be given that the Company will be successful in these efforts.

<u>The Company may not be successful in entering into new markets</u>. The Company intends to expand its geographic footprint through acquisitions and organic growth. Entering into new markets involves risks, such as competitive disadvantages through a lack of name recognition, increased marketing costs, and the inability to otherwise grow market share as needed to offset the costs associated with expansion. The failure to successfully expand the Company's footprint or do so in an effective manner could adversely affect the Company's results of operations.

<u>The Company may need to raise additional capital in the future and such capital may not be available when needed or at terms that are beneficial to stockholders.</u> Substantial growth may stress regulatory capital levels, and may require the Company to raise additional capital. No assurance can be given that the Company will be able to raise any required capital, or that it will be able to raise capital on terms that are beneficial to stockholders.

<u>A portion of the Company's loan portfolio has grown through acquisition, and therefore may not have been underwritten to meet the Company's credit standards</u>. Loans that were acquired as part of the Company's acquisitions of other depository institutions were not initially underwritten or originated in accordance with the Company's credit standards, and the Company did not have long-standing relationships with many of these borrowers at the time of acquisition. The acquired loans were underwritten at the date of acquisition based on the Company's credit standards, which can temporarily increase loans classified as special mention and substandard for a period of time until these loans are integrated and conform to the Company's credit standards. Although the Company reviewed the loan portfolios of each institution acquired as part of the diligence process, and believes that it has established reasonable credit marks with regard to all loans acquired, no assurance can be given that the Company will not incur losses in excess of the credit marks with regard to these acquired loans, or that any such losses, if they occur, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

<u>Future acquisition activity could otherwise negatively affect financial condition and results of operations</u>. The Company continues to evaluate opportunities to acquire financial institutions, financial service companies and/or bank branches. Acquiring other banks, businesses, or branches may have an adverse effect on financial results and may involve various other risks commonly associated with acquisitions, including those discussed above, as well as, among other things:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• payment of a premium over book and/or market values of the target company may dilute the book value and earnings per share of the Company in the short and long-term;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• potential exposure to unknown or contingent liabilities of the target company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• exposure to potential asset quality problems of the target company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• inability to realize the expected revenue increases, cost savings, increases in market share, and/or other projected benefits of the acquisition;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• potential disruption to the business;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• potential diversion of management's time and attention;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the possible loss of key employees and customers of the target company; and/or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• potential changes in banking or tax laws or regulations that may affect the target company.

Acquisitions may reduce or not enhance cash flows, business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects and, as a result, such acquisitions may have an adverse effect on the results of operations, particularly during periods in which the acquisitions are being integrated into operations.

**Risks Related to Loan Sales**

<u>The Company may be required to repurchase loans that had previously been sold for a breach of representations and warranties, which could harm the Company's earnings</u>. The Company enters into loan sale agreements with investors in the normal course of business. The loan sale agreements generally require the repurchase of certain loans previously sold in the event of a violation of various representations and warranties customary in the banking industry. Investors carefully examine loan documentation on delinquent loans for a possible reason to request a repurchase by the loan originator. A subsequent sale of a repurchased loan could be at a significant discount to the unpaid principal balance. The Company maintains a reserve for repurchased loans. However, if repurchase activity or the amount of loss on the sale of a repurchased loan is greater than anticipated, the reserve may need to be increased to cover actual losses, which could harm earnings.

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**Risks Related to Laws and Regulations**

<u>The Company and the Bank operate in a highly regu</u><u>lated environment and may be adversely affected by changes in laws and regulations</u>. The Company is subject to examination, supervision and regulation by the FRB. The Bank is subject to regulation, supervision and examination by the OCC, its primary federal regulator, by the FDIC, as insurer of deposits, and by the CFPB with respect to consumer protection laws. Such regulation and supervision governs the activities in which an institution and its holding company may engage. Regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the ability to impose of restrictions on operations, the classification of assets and determination of the level of the allowance for credit losses. The laws and regulations that govern the Company's and the Bank's operations are designed for the protection of depositors and the public, not the Company's stockholders. These provisions, as well as future regulatory or legislative changes or executive orders applicable to the financial industry, may impact the profitability of the Company's business activities and may change certain business practices, including the ability to offer new products, obtain financing, generate fee income, attract deposits, make loans and achieve satisfactory interest spreads, and could expose the Company to additional costs, including increased compliance and disclosure costs. Such changes also may require the Company to invest significant management attention and resources to make any necessary changes to operations in order to comply, and could therefore also materially and adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

As part of its lending activity, the Company may enter into interest rate swaps that allow commercial loan customers to effectively convert a variable-rate commercial loan to a fixed-rate commercial loan. Under these agreements, the Company enters into a variable-rate loan agreement with a customer in addition to an interest rate swap agreement, which serves to effectively swap the customer's variable rate loan into a fixed rate loan. The Company then enters into a corresponding swap agreement with a third party in order to economically hedge its exposure through the customer agreement, as well as more broadly to hedge variable cash flows associated with its variable-rate loans. Offering these products can subject the Company to additional regulatory oversight and cost, as well as additional risk. The Dodd-Frank Act contains a comprehensive framework for over-the-counter derivative transactions. Even though many of the requirements do not impact the Company directly, since the Bank does not meet the definition of swap dealer or "major swap participant," the Company continues to review and evaluate the extent to which such requirements impact its business indirectly or if and when such requirements may apply to the Bank directly.

The USA Patriot and Bank Secrecy Acts require financial institutions to develop programs and procedures to prevent financial institutions from being used for money laundering, terrorist financing and other illicit activities, including filing suspicious activity reports and establishing procedures for identifying and verifying the identity of customers seeking to open new accounts. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in sanctions, including payment of damages and civil money penalties, injunctive relief, and restrictions on mergers and acquisitions activity and other expansionary activities. Although the Company has developed policies and procedures designated to comply with these laws and regulations, these policies and procedures may not be effective in preventing violations of these laws and regulations.

<u>The Company is subject to stringent capital requirements, which may adversely impact return on equity, require additional capital raises, or limit the ability to pay dividends or repurchase shares</u>. Federal regulations establish minimum capital requirements for insured depository institutions, including minimum risk-based capital and leverage ratios, and define "capital" for calculating these ratios. The minimum capital requirements are: (i) a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 4.5%; (ii) a Tier 1 to risk-based assets capital ratio of 6%; (iii) a total capital ratio of 8%; and (iv) a Tier 1 leverage ratio of 4%. The regulations also establish a "capital conservation buffer" of 2.5%, which if complied with, will result in the following minimum ratios: (i) a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 7%; (ii) a Tier 1 to risk-based assets capital ratio of 8.5%; and (iii) a total capital ratio of 10.5%. An institution will be subject to limitations on paying dividends, engaging in share repurchases and paying discretionary bonuses if its capital level falls below the capital conservation buffer amount.

The application of these capital requirements could, among other things, require the Company to maintain higher capital resulting in lower returns on equity, and could require the Company to obtain additional capital to comply or result in regulatory actions if the Company is unable to comply with such requirements. See <u>Regulation and Supervision, Bank Holding Company Regulation</u>.

<u>Monetary policies and regulations of the federal government, including the Federal Reserve Board, could adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition, and results of operations</u>. The Company's earnings and growth are affected by the policies of the Federal Reserve Board. An important function of the Federal Reserve Board is to regulate the money supply and credit conditions. Among the instruments used by the Federal Reserve Board to implement these objectives are open market purchases and sales of U.S. government securities, adjustments of the discount rate and changes in banks' reserve requirements against certain transaction account deposits. These instruments are used in varying combinations to influence overall economic growth and the distribution of credit, bank loans, investments and deposits. The Federal Reserve Board's policies determine in large part the cost of funds for lending and investing and the return earned on those loans and investments, both of which affect

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net interest margin. Its policies can also adversely affect borrowers, potentially increasing the risk that they may fail to repay their loans. The monetary policies and regulations of the Federal Reserve Board have a significant effect on the overall economy and the operating results of financial institutions.

Additionally, Congress and the administration through executive orders, control fiscal policy through decisions on taxation and expenditures. Depending on industries and markets involved, changes to tax law and increased or reduced public expenditures could affect the Company directly or the business operations of its customers.

Changes in Federal Reserve Board and other governmental policies, fiscal policy, and regulatory environment generally are beyond the Company's control, and are unable to predict what changes may occur or the manner in which any future changes may affect the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations.

<u>The Company is subject to the CRA and fair lending laws, and failure to comply with these laws could lead to material penalties</u>. The CRA, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Housing Act and other fair lending laws and regulations impose nondiscriminatory lending requirements on financial institutions. A successful regulatory challenge to an institution's performance under the CRA or fair lending laws and regulations could result in sanctions, including payment of damages and civil money penalties, injunctive relief, and restrictions on mergers and acquisitions activity and expansionary activities. Private parties may also challenge an institution's performance under fair lending laws in private class action litigation. Such actions could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

<u>The Federal Reserve Board may require the Company to commit capital resources to support the Bank</u>. Federal law requires that a holding company act as a source of financial and managerial strength to its subsidiary bank and to commit resources to support such subsidiary bank. Under the "source of strength" doctrine, the Federal Reserve Board may require a holding company to make capital injections into a troubled subsidiary bank and may charge the holding company with engaging in unsafe and unsound practices for failure to commit resources to a subsidiary bank. A capital injection may be required at times when the holding company may not have the resources to provide it and therefore may require the holding company to borrow the funds or raise capital. Under such a scenario, any borrowing or funds needed to raise capital required to make a capital injection may be more difficult and expensive and could have an adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

<u>The Company is subject to heightened regulatory requirements as a result of assets exceeding $10 billion</u>. The Company's total assets were $14.6 billion at December 31, 2025, thereby making it subject to requirements imposed by the Dodd-Frank Act and its implementing regulations, including examination by the CFPB to assess compliance with federal consumer financial laws, imposition of higher FDIC premiums, reduced debit card interchange fees, and enhanced risk management frameworks, all of which increase operating costs and reduce earnings.

Additional costs have been and will be incurred to implement processes, procedures, and monitoring of compliance with these requirements, including investing significant management attention.

Furthermore, the level of dividends the Company receives from the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia is reduced due to its asset size.

<u>The Company may become subject to enforcement actions even though non-compliance was inadvertent or unintentional.</u> The financial services industry is subject to intense scrutiny from bank supervisors in the examination process and aggressive enforcement of federal and state regulations, particularly with respect to mortgage-related practices and other consumer compliance matters, and compliance with anti-money laundering, Bank Secrecy Act and Office of Foreign Assets Control regulations, and economic sanctions against certain foreign countries and nationals. Enforcement actions may be initiated for violations of laws and regulations and unsafe or unsound practices. The Company maintains systems and procedures designed to ensure that the Company complies with applicable laws and regulations; however, some legal/regulatory frameworks provide for the imposition of fines or penalties for non-compliance even though the non-compliance was inadvertent or unintentional and even though there was in place at the time systems and procedures designed to ensure compliance. Failure to comply with these and other regulations, and supervisory expectations related thereto, may result in fines, penalties, lawsuits, regulatory sanctions, reputation damage, or restrictions on the business.

<u>The grant of bank charters and special purpose fintech charters by the OCC to fintech companies could present financial risk and market risk to the Company generally and the payments processing business specifically</u>. In 2018, the OCC announced that it would begin to accept and evaluate charters for entities that wanted to conduct certain components of a banking business pursuant to a federal charter, known as a special purpose national bank charter. Intended to promote economic opportunity and spur financial innovation, an institution with a special purpose national bank charter may engage in paying checks, lending

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money and taking deposits. The OCC has granted national bank charters to companies that were previously non-bank fintech companies. If, in the future, the OCC determines to grant any special purpose national bank charter applications or continues to grant bank charters to fintech applicants, recipients of such charters may enter the U.S. payments market and other business activities that the Company conducts, which could increase the competition it faces and have a material adverse effect on the Company. This could result in lower fee income, and loss of deposits, related to the Company's payments processing business.

**Risks Related to Dividend Payments**

<u>There is no guaranty that the Company will be able to continue to pay a dividend on its common stock or, if continued, will be able to pay a dividend at the current rate</u>. The Board of the Company determines if, when and the amount of dividends that may be paid on the common stock. In making such determination under the Company's capital management plan, the Board takes into account various factors including economic conditions, earnings, alternative uses of the Company's capital, liquidity needs, the financial condition of the Company, applicable state law, tax and regulatory requirements and other factors deemed relevant by the Board. Although the Company has a long history of paying a quarterly dividend on its common stock, there is no guaranty that such dividends will continue to be paid in the future or at what rate.

**Risks Related to Competition**

<u>Competition</u> <u>may adversely affect profitability and liquidity</u>. The Company experiences substantial competition in originating loans in its market areas. This competition comes principally from other banks, savings institutions, mortgage banking companies, credit unions and other lenders. Many of these competitors enjoy advantages not available to the Company, including greater financial resources and access to capital, stronger regulatory ratios and higher lending limits, a wider geographic presence, more accessible branch office locations, the ability to offer a wider array of services or more favorable pricing alternatives, as well as lower origination and operating costs. Increased competition could reduce the Company's net income by decreasing the number and size of loans that the Company originates and the interest rates charged on these loans. Competitive factors driven by consumer sentiment, regulatory directives or otherwise can also reduce the Company's ability to generate fee income, such as through overdraft fees.

In attracting deposits, the Company faces substantial competition from other insured depository institutions such as banks, savings institutions and credit unions, as well as institutions offering uninsured investment alternatives, including money market funds. Many competitors enjoy advantages not available to the Company, including greater financial resources and access to capital, stronger regulatory ratios, more aggressive marketing campaigns, better brand recognition and more branch locations. These competitors may offer higher interest rates than the Company, which could decrease the deposits that the Company attracts or require the Company to increase its rates to retain existing deposits or attract new deposits. Increased deposit competition could adversely affect the Company's ability to generate the funds necessary for lending operations. As a result, the Company may need to seek other sources of funds that may be more expensive to obtain, which could increase the cost of funds.

In addition, rapid technological changes and consumer preferences may result in increased competition for the Company's other services. A number of well-funded technology focused companies are innovating the payments, distributed ledger, and cryptocurrency networks and are attempting to disintermediate portions of the traditional banking model. A shift in the mix of payment forms away from the Company's products and services could have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position and results of operations.

The Company has also been active in competing for New Jersey governmental and municipal deposits including public school districts, local municipal governments, and cooperative health insurance funds. At December 31, 2025 such deposits accounted for approximately 25% of the Company's total deposits. Public fund deposits from local government entities such as counties, townships, school districts and other municipalities generally have higher average balances and the Company's inability to retain such funds could adversely affect liquidity or result in the use of higher-cost funding sources.

**Risks Related to Strategic Matters**

<u>New lines of business or new products and services may subject the</u> <u>Company</u> <u>to additional risks</u>. The Company may implement new lines of business or offer new products and services within existing lines of business. Significant time and resources may be invested in developing and marketing new lines of business and/or new products and services. Initial timetables for the development and introduction of new lines of business and/or new products or services may not be achieved and price and profitability targets may not prove feasible. Furthermore, customers may fail to accept the new products and services. External factors, such as compliance with regulations, competitive alternatives, and shifting market preferences may also impact the successful implementation of a new line of business or a new product or service. Furthermore, the burden on management and information technology of introducing any new line of business and/or new product or service could have a significant impact on the effectiveness of the Company's system of internal controls. Failure to successfully manage these risks

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in the development and implementation of new lines of business or new products or services could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

<u>The Company's inability to tailor its retail delivery model to respond to consumer preferences may negatively affect earnings</u>. The Company has expanded its market presence through acquisitions and growth. The Company's branch network continues to be a very significant source of new business generation, however, consumers continue to migrate much of their routine banking to self-service channels. In recognition of this shift in consumer patterns, the Company has undertaken a comprehensive review of its branch network, resulting in branch consolidation accompanied by the enhancement of the Company's capabilities to serve its customers through alternate delivery channels. The benefits of this strategy are dependent on the Company's ability to realize expected expense reductions without experiencing significant customer attrition.

**Risks Related to Operational Matters**

<u>Risks associated with system failures, interruptions, or breaches of security could disrupt businesses, result in the disclosure of confidential information, damage the reputation of, and create significant financial and legal exposure</u>. Information technology systems are critical to the Company's business, which includes collecting, processing, transmitting,, and storing significant amounts of confidential information regarding the Company's customers, employees and its business, operations, plans, and business strategies. The Company uses various technology systems to manage customer relationships, deposits and loans, general ledger, securities investments, and other processes. These computer systems, data management, and internal processes, as well as those of third parties, are integral to the Company's performance. The heavy reliance on information technology systems may expose the Company to operational risks, which include the risk of malfeasance by employees or persons outside the Company, errors relating to transaction processing and technology, systems failures or interruptions, failures to properly implement systems upgrades, cyberattacks, breaches of the Company's internal control systems and compliance requirements, and business continuation and disaster recovery.

Financial institutions and companies have reported breaches in the security of their websites or other systems, some of which have involved sophisticated and targeted attacks intended to obtain unauthorized access to confidential information, destroy data, disrupt or degrade service, sabotage systems or cause other damage, often through the introduction of computer viruses or malware, cyberattacks, ransomware and other means. The proliferation of artificial intelligence has enhanced actions, strategies, and processes that cyber attackers use to create threats and launch cyberattacks. Additionally, there is the risk of distributed denial-of-service or other similar attacks, which are intended to disrupt online services. Despite the Company's efforts to ensure the integrity of its systems, the Company may not be able to implement effective preventive measures against all attempted security breaches, especially because the techniques used change frequently or are deceptive in nature, and because cyberattacks can originate from a wide variety of sources. Those parties may also attempt to fraudulently induce employees, customers or other users of the Company's systems to disclose sensitive information in order to gain access to the Company's data or that of its customers or clients. These risks may increase in the future as the Company continues to increase its mobile and other internet-based product offerings and systems.

In addition, a majority of data processing is outsourced to third-party providers. If these third-party providers encounter difficulties, or if there is difficulty communicating with them, the ability to adequately process and account for transactions could be affected, and business operations could be adversely affected. Threats to information security also exist in the processing of customer information through various vendors and their personnel. Breaches of security may occur through intentional or unintentional acts by those having access to the confidential or other information of the Company and its customers, clients or counterparties. While management regularly reviews security assessments that were conducted on the Company's third-party service providers that have access to sensitive and confidential information, there can be no assurance that their information security protocols are sufficient to withstand a cyber-attack or other security breach.

The occurrence of any system failures, interruption, or breach of security of the Company's or its vendors' systems could cause negative consequences for the Company, including significant disruption of the Company's operations, misappropriation of confidential information of the Company or that of its customers, or damage to computers or systems of the Company and those of its customers and counterparties, which could result in violations of applicable privacy and other laws, financial loss to the Company or to its customers, loss of confidence in the Company's security measures, customer dissatisfaction, litigation exposure, and harm to the Company's reputation, all of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company.

<u>The Company's Board relies on management in overseeing cybersecurity risk management.</u> The Company has an Information Technology and Security Management Committee, consisting of leaders across multiple domains. The Chief Information Security Officer is a primary management liaison to the committee. The committee meets quarterly, or more frequently if needed, and reports to the Board after each meeting through committee minutes. While select Board members of the Company have experience in multiple disciplines including cybersecurity risk management, the Board relies on the Chief Information Security Officer and management for cybersecurity guidance.

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<u>An inability to attract and retain qualified personnel or the unexpected loss of service of any key personnel could have a negative impact on financial condition and results of operations.</u> The Company's ability to maximize profitability and manage growth successfully depends on its ability to attract and retain management and loan officers experienced in banking and financial services and familiar with the communities in its market areas. Competition for qualified employees and personnel in the banking industry is intense. The process of recruiting personnel with the combination of skills and attributes required to carry out strategies is often lengthy. The unexpected loss of service of any key management personnel, or the inability to recruit and retain qualified personnel, could adversely affect the Company. If the Company is not able to attract qualified personnel it could negatively impact the Company's profitability and growth.

<u>The soundness of other financial institutions could adversely affect the Company</u>. The Company's ability to engage in routine funding transactions could be adversely affected by the actions and commercial soundness of other financial institutions. Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty and other relationships. The Company has exposure to many different counterparties, and routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial industry, including brokers and dealers, other commercial banks, investment banks, mutual and hedge funds, and other financial institutions. As a result, defaults by, or even rumors or questions about, one or more financial services institutions, or the financial services industry generally, could lead to market-wide liquidity problems and losses or defaults by the Company or by other institutions and organizations. Many of these transactions expose the Company to credit risk in the event of default of the counterparty or client. In addition, credit risk may be exacerbated when the collateral held by the Company cannot be liquidated or is liquidated at prices not sufficient to recover the full amount of the financial instrument exposure that is due. Any such losses could materially and adversely affect the Company's results of operations.

<u>The Company faces funds transfer and payments-related risks</u>. As a financial institution, the Company bears funds transfer risks of different types, which result from large transaction volumes and large dollar amounts of incoming and outgoing money transfers. Loss exposure may result if money is transferred before it is received, or legal rights to reclaim monies transferred are asserted, including payments made to merchants for payment clearing, while customers have statutory periods to reverse their payments. Exposure may also results from payments made prior to receipt of offsetting funds, as accommodations to customers. The Company is subject to unique settlement risks as transfers may be larger than typical financial institutions of the Company's size. Transfers could also be made in error or as a result of fraud. Additionally, as with other financial institutions, the Company may incur legal liability or reputational risk, if it unknowingly process payments for companies in violation of money laundering laws or other regulations or immoral activities.

**Risks Related to Accounting and Internal Controls Matters**

<u>The Company may incur impairments to goodwill.</u> At December 31, 2025, the Company had $517.5 million in goodwill, which is evaluated for impairment at least annually. Significant negative industry or economic trends, including declines in the market price of the Company's stock, reduced estimates of future cash flows or business disruptions could result in impairments to goodwill. The valuation methodology for assessing impairment requires management to make judgments and assumptions based on historical experience and to rely on projections of future operating performance. If the analysis results in impairment to goodwill, an impairment charge to earnings would be recorded in the financial statements during the period in which such impairment is determined to exist. Any such charge could have an adverse effect on the results of operations.

<u>Controls and procedures may fail or be circumvented, which, if not remediated appropriately or timely, could result in loss of investor confidence and adversely impact the Company's stock price</u>. Management routinely reviews and updates internal controls. Any system of controls, however well designed and operated, is based in part on certain assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurances that the objectives of the system are met. Any failure or circumvention of the controls and procedures or failure to comply with regulations related to controls and procedures could have a material adverse effect on the Company, the results of operations and financial condition, investor confidence, and stock price.

<u>Changes in management's estimates and assumptions may have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements and the financial condition or operating results</u>. In preparing periodic reports the Company is required to file under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions as of a specified date. These estimates and assumptions are based on management's best estimates and experience as of that date and are subject to change. Materially different results may occur as circumstances change and additional information becomes known, including the evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses.

<u>Changes in accounting standards could affect reported earnings</u>. The bodies responsible for establishing accounting standards, including the FASB, the SEC and other regulatory bodies, periodically change the financial accounting and reporting guidance that governs the preparation of the Company's financial statements. These changes can be hard to predict, may involve judgment and discretion in their interpretation and implementation by the Company and its independent accounting firm and, as

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a result, can materially impact how the financial condition and results of operations are reported. In some cases, the Company could be required to apply new or revised guidance retroactively.

**Risks Related to Environmental and Other Global Matters**

<u>Hurricanes and other natural disasters, climate change or increases to flood insurance premiums could adversely affect asset quality and earnings</u>. The Company's market areas include counties in New Jersey with extensive coastal regions. These areas may be vulnerable to flooding or other damage from storms or hurricanes, which could negatively impact the Company's results of operations by disrupting operations, adversely impacting the ability of the Company's borrowers to repay their loans, damaging collateral or reducing the value of real estate used as collateral.

<u>The Company's business, financial condition, and results of operations could be adversely affected by natural disasters, health epidemics, and other catastrophic events.</u> The Company could be adversely affected if key personnel or a significant number of employees were to become unavailable due to a pandemic, natural disaster, war, act of terrorism, accident, or other reason. Any of these events could result in the temporary reduction of operations, employees, and customers, which could limit the Company's ability to provide services. Additionally, many of the Company's borrowers may suffer property damage, experience interruptions of their business or lose their jobs after such events. Those borrowers might not be able to repay their loans, and the collateral for such loans may decline significantly in value.

Further, given the inter-connectivity of the global economy, pandemic disease and health events have the potential to negatively impact economic activities in many countries, including the United States, including the business of the Company's borrowers. Additionally, global markets may be adversely affected by the emergence of widespread health emergencies or pandemics.

<u>Societal responses to climate change could adversely affect the Company's business and performance, including indirectly through impacts on its customers.</u> Concerns over the long-term impacts of climate change have led and will continue to lead to governmental efforts around the world to mitigate those impacts. Consumers and businesses also may change their behavior as a result of these concerns. The Company and its customers will need to respond to new laws and regulations as well as consumer and business preferences resulting from climate change concerns. The Company and its customers may face cost increases, asset value reductions, operating process changes, and other issues. The impact on the Company's customers will likely vary depending on their specific attributes, including reliance on or role in carbon intensive activities. Among the impacts could be a drop in demand for the Company's products and services, particularly in certain sectors. In addition, the Company could face reductions in creditworthiness on the part of some customers or in the value of assets securing loans. The Company takes these risks into account when making lending and other decisions, such as business with climate-friendly companies, which may not be effective in protecting from the negative impact of new laws and regulations or changes in consumer or business behavior.

**Risks Related to Card Networks**

<u>Changes in card network fees could impact the Company's operations</u>. From time to time, the card networks increase the fees (known as interchange fees) that they charge to acquirers and that the Company charges its merchants. It is possible that competitive pressures will result in the Company absorbing a portion of such increases in the future, which would increase costs, reduce profit margin and adversely affect the Company's business and financial condition. In addition, the card networks require certain capital requirements. An increase in the required capital levels would further limit the Company's use of capital for other purposes.

<u>Changes in card network rules or standards could adversely affect the Company's business</u>. The Company is a member of the Visa and MasterCard networks. As such, the Company is subject to card network rules resulting in a variety of fines or penalties that may be assessed on the Company. The termination of membership or any changes in card network rules or standards, including interpretation and implementation of existing rules or standards, could increase the cost of operating the merchant services business or limit the ability to provide debit card and cash management solutions to or through customers, and could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

<u>The potential for fraud in the card payment industry is significant and could adversely affect the Company's business and results of operations.</u> Issuers of prepaid and debit cards and other companies have suffered significant losses in recent years with respect to the theft of cardholder data that has been illegally exploited for personal gain. The theft of such information is regularly reported and affects individuals and businesses. Losses from various types of fraud have been substantial for certain card industry participants. The Company also relies upon third parties for transaction processing services, which subjects the Company and its customers to risks related to the vulnerabilities of those third parties. The Company, in many cases, have indemnification agreements with third parties; however, these agreements may not fully cover losses. Fraudulent activity could also result in the imposition of regulatory sanctions, including significant monetary fines, which could adversely affect the

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Company's business, results of operations and financial condition. Although fraud has not had a material impact on the Company's profitability, it is possible that such activity could adversely impact profitability in the future.

**Other Risks Related to the Business**

<u>The Company's stock price may be negatively impacted by unrelated bank failures and negative depositor confidence in depository institutions. Further, if the Company is unable to adequately manage liquidity, deposits, capital levels and interest rate risk, it may have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition and results of operations.</u> Events such as the bank failures that occurred in early 2023 have led to a greater focus by institutions, investors and regulators on the on-balance sheet liquidity of and funding sources for financial institutions, the composition of its deposits, including the amount of uninsured deposits, the amount of accumulated other comprehensive loss, capital levels and interest rate risk management. If the Company is unable to adequately manage liquidity, deposits, capital levels and interest rate risk, it may have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and results of operations.

<u>The Company is a community bank and its ability to maintain its reputation is critical to the success of the business. The failure to do so may materially adversely affect the Company's performance.</u> The Company is a community bank, and its reputation is one of the most valuable components of its business. A key component of the Company's business strategy is to rely on its reputation for customer service and knowledge of local markets to expand its presence by capturing new business opportunities from existing and prospective customers in the Company's market areas and contiguous areas. Threats to the Company's reputation can come from many sources, including adverse sentiment about financial institutions generally, unethical practices, employee misconduct, failure to deliver minimum standards of service or quality, compliance deficiencies, cybersecurity incidents, errors resulting from the use of artificial intelligence and questionable or fraudulent activities of the Company's customers. In addition, third parties with whom the Company has relationships may take actions over which the Company has limited control that could negatively impact perceptions about the Company or the financial services industry. The proliferation of social media may increase the likelihood that negative information about the Company, whether or not accurate, could impact the Company's reputation and business. Negative publicity regarding the Company's business, employees, or customers, with or without merit, may result in the loss of customers and employees, costly litigation and increased governmental regulation, all of which could adversely affect the Company's business and operating results.

<u>The Company's funding sources may prove insufficient to replace deposits at maturity and support its future growth. A lack of liquidity could adversely affect the financial condition and results of operations and result in regulatory limits being placed on the Company.</u> The Company maintains sufficient funds to respond to the needs of depositors and borrowers. Deposits have traditionally been the Company's primary source of funds for use in lending and investment activities. The Company also receives funds from loan repayments, investment maturities and income on other interest-earning assets. While the Company emphasizes the generation of low-cost deposits as a source of funding, there is strong competition for such deposits in the Company's market area. Additionally, deposit balances can decrease if customers identify alternative investments opportunities. Accordingly, as a part of the Company's liquidity management, the Company may use a number of funding sources in addition to deposits and repayments and maturities of loans and investments. As the Company continues to grow, it is likely to become more dependent on these sources, which may include FHLB advances, federal funds purchased and brokered certificates of deposit. Adverse operating results or changes in industry conditions could lead to difficulty or an inability to access these additional funding sources.

The Company's financial flexibility will be severely constrained if it is unable to maintain its access to funding or if adequate financing is not available to accommodate future growth at acceptable interest rates. Further, if the Company is required to rely more heavily on more expensive funding sources to support liquidity and future growth, the Company's revenues may not increase proportionately to cover increased costs. In this case, operating margins and profitability would be adversely affected. Alternatively, the Company may need to sell a portion of its investment and/or loan portfolio to raise funds, which, depending upon market conditions, could result in realizing a loss.

Any decline in available funding could adversely impact the Company's ability to originate loans, invest in securities, pay expenses, or fulfill obligations such as repaying borrowings or meeting deposit withdrawal demands, any of which could have a material adverse impact on liquidity, business, financial condition and results of operations.

A lack of liquidity could also attract increased regulatory scrutiny and potential restraints imposed by regulators. Depending on the capitalization status and regulatory treatment of depository institutions, including whether an institution is subject to a supervisory prompt corrective action directive, certain additional regulatory restrictions and prohibitions may apply, including restrictions on growth, restrictions on interest rates paid on deposits, restrictions or prohibitions on payment of dividends and restrictions on the acceptance of brokered deposits.

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**FEDERAL AND STATE TAXATION**

**Federal Taxation**

<u>General</u>. The Company and the Bank report their income on a calendar year basis using the accrual method of accounting, and are subject to Federal income taxation in the same manner as other corporations with some exceptions, including particularly the Company's reserve for bad debts. The following discussion of tax matters is intended only as a summary and does not purport to be a comprehensive description of the tax rules applicable to the Company or the Bank. The current applicable statutory tax rate is 21%.

<u>Dividends Received Deduction and Other Matters</u>. The Company may exclude from its income 100% of dividends received from the Bank as a member of the same affiliated group of corporations. The corporate dividends received deduction is generally 50% in the case of dividends received from unaffiliated corporations with which the Company and the Bank will not file a consolidated tax return, except that if the Company or the Bank own more than 20% of the stock of a corporation distributing a dividend then 65% of any dividends received may be deducted.

**State and Local Taxation**

<u>New Jersey Taxation</u>. The Company files New Jersey income tax returns. For this purpose, taxable income generally means Federal taxable income, excluding some entities not included in the unitary filing and other adjustments (including addition of interest income on state and municipal obligations).

The Company is required to file a New Jersey income tax return. For New Jersey tax purposes, regular corporations are presently taxed at a rate equal to 9% of taxable income. New Jersey currently also imposes a Corporate Transit Fee of 2.5%, which applies to the Company, for corporations with a taxable net income over $10 million effective through December 31, 2028.

For 2019 and prospectively, New Jersey law requires combined filing for members of an affiliated group, but excluded companies that qualify as a New Jersey Investment Company and REIT. For periods ending on and after July 31, 2023, companies meeting the statutory definition of a "captive" IC and REIT are required to be included in the combined filing. This legislation included an exception if at least 50% of the shares, by vote or value, are owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by a state or federally chartered bank, savings bank, or savings and loan association (financial institution) with assets of $15 billion or less. As of December 31, 2025 the Company qualified for this exception.

The allocation and apportionment of taxable income to New Jersey may affect the overall tax rate.

<u>New York Taxation</u>. The Company is required to file NYS and NYC tax returns. The NYS and NYC returns require consolidation of all entities and taxable income, consistent with other states, generally means Federal taxable income subject to certain adjustments. For NYS tax purposes, corporations are presently taxed at a rate equal to 7.25% of taxable income, in addition to a temporary Metropolitan Transportation Authority surtax of 30% of the NYS tax rate, which is effective through December 31, 2026, for an overall NYS rate of 9.425%. For NYC tax purposes, the Company is taxed at a rate equal to 8.85%. The allocation and apportionment of taxable income to NYS and NYC may affect the overall tax rate.

<u>Pennsylvania Taxation</u>. The Bank is required to file a Pennsylvania bank shares tax return. The Bank's net assets, less allowable deductions, are taxed at a rate presently equal to 0.95% of apportioned net assets. The allocation and apportionment to Pennsylvania may affect the overall tax rate.

<u>Other City and State Taxation</u>. The Company or the Bank are required to file other city and state tax returns within its geographical footprint. The allocation and apportionment to these jurisdictions may affect the overall tax rate.

<u>Delaware Taxation</u>. As a Delaware holding company not earning income in Delaware, the Company is exempted from Delaware corporate income tax but is required to file an annual report with and pay an annual franchise tax to the State of Delaware.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 1B.** | **Unresolved Staff Comments** |

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None.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 1C.** | **Cybersecurity** |

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**Cybersecurity Risk, Management and Strategy**

Cybersecurity is a significant and integrated component of the Company's risk management strategy, designed to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive information contained within the Company's information services. As a financial services company, cyber threats are present and growing, and the potential exists for a cybersecurity incident disrupting business operations, compromising sensitive data or both. To date, the Company has not, to its knowledge, experienced an incident materially affecting or reasonably likely to materially affect the Company.

To prepare and respond to incidents, the Company has implemented a multi-layered "defense-in-depth" cybersecurity strategy, integrating people, technology, and processes using leading practices and in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements. This includes employee training, innovative technologies, and policies and procedures in the areas of Information Security, Data Governance, Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery, Privacy, Third-Party Risk Management, and Incident Response.

Core activities supporting the Company's strategy include cybersecurity training, technology optimization, security monitoring and response, identity access management, threat intelligence, vulnerability and patch management and the testing of incident response, business continuity and disaster recovery capabilities.

Employees play a significant role in the defense against cybersecurity threats. Every employee is responsible for protecting Company and client information. Accordingly, employees complete formal training and acknowledge security policies annually. In addition, employees are subjected to periodic simulated phishing assessments, designed to reinforce threat detection and reporting capabilities.

Employees are supported with processes and related solutions designed to identify, prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from incidents. Notable technologies include firewalls, intrusion detection systems, security automation and response capabilities, end user behavior analytics, multi-factor authentication, data backups to immutable storage and business continuity applications. Notable services include 24/7 security monitoring and response, ongoing vulnerability scanning, third-party monitoring, and threat intelligence.

Like many other financial institutions, the Company relies on third-party vendor solutions to support its operations; many of these vendors have access to sensitive and proprietary information. As third-party vendors continue to be a notable source of operational and informational risk, the Company has implemented a structured Third-Party Risk Management program, which includes a defined onboarding process and periodic reviews of vendors with access to sensitive company data.

As indicated above, supporting the operations are incident response, business continuity, and disaster recovery programs. These programs identify and assess threats and evaluate risk. Further, these programs support a coordinated response when responding to incidents. Periodic exercises and tests verify these programs' effectiveness.

Validating solution and program effectiveness in relation to regulatory compliance and industry standards is important. Accordingly, the Company engages third-party consultants and independent auditors to conduct penetration tests, cybersecurity risk assessments, external audits, and program development and enhancement where applicable.

**Cybersecurity Governance**

*Management Committee Oversight*

The Company has established an Information Security Management and Information Technology structure consisting of department leaders across multiple functional areas including Data Engineering, Enterprise Applications, Strategic Planning, Technology, Information Technology Governance, and Cybersecurity. These functional areas, which collaborate on a daily basis, are led by qualified financial service technology professionals, with extensive experience in their subject matter. Cybersecurity knowledge is integrated across Information Technology, Business Units, and Operating Functions and is a key consideration in the approach from planning to execution, including when third parties are involved. The structure enables a focus on strategic and tactical delivery, policy oversight, and the assessment and management of risks from cybersecurity threats. Policies are also shared with the Company's Management Risk Committee to provide a second line review in alignment with Enterprise Risk functions.

All Information Security activities are led by the Chief Information Security Officer, which includes developing and implementing the information security program and reporting on cybersecurity matters to the Company's leadership team and the Board. The Chief Information Security Officer has several years of experience leading cybersecurity operations in financial

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services, supported by a team with various security, technical, risk, audit and program management subject matter knowledge. Management, through the Information Security and Information Technology Governance function, provides cybersecurity statistics and details to the board monthly.

*Board Committee Oversight*

The Company's Risk and Information Technology Board Committees provide oversight of the cyber program as part of their overall remit. Each committee consists of Board members, chaired by an independent director. Committee members have extensive expertise in various disciplines, including risk management, communications, information technology, litigation, banking and transactional matters, regulatory compliance, and cybersecurity. Board Committees receive regular reports informing on the effectiveness of the overall cybersecurity program and the detection, response, and recovery from significant cyber incidents. Cybersecurity metrics are reported quarterly to both committees and key risk indicators are reported to the Risk Committee.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 2.** | **Properties** |

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At December 31, 2025, the Company primarily conducted its business through its headquarters located in Toms River, New Jersey, and its administrative office located in Red Bank, New Jersey. The Company also conducts its business at 41 branch offices and various deposit production facilities located throughout central and southern New Jersey and major metropolitan areas of New York City and Philadelphia. The Bank also operates commercial loan production offices in New Jersey, New York City, the greater Philadelphia area, Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., Baltimore, Boston and Northern Virginia.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 3.** | **Legal Proceedings** |

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The Company and the Bank are not involved in any pending legal proceedings other than routine legal proceedings occurring in the ordinary course of business. Such other routine legal proceedings in the aggregate are believed by management to be immaterial to the Company's financial condition or results of operations.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 4.** | **Mine Safety Disclosures** |

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Not Applicable.

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**PART II**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 5.** | **Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities** |

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**Market Information for Common Stock**

OceanFirst Financial Corp.'s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol OCFC. As of February 19, 2026, there were 2,464 common stockholders of record.

**Stock Performance Graph**

The following graph shows a comparison of total stockholder return on OceanFirst Financial Corp.'s common stock, based on the market price of the Company's common stock with the cumulative total return of companies in the NASDAQ Composite Index and the KBW Regional Banking Index for the period from December 31, 2020 through December 31, 2025. The graph may not be indicative of possible future performance of the Company's common stock. Cumulative return assumes the reinvestment of dividends and is expressed in dollars based on an initial investment of $100.

![778](ocfc-20251231_g1.jpg)

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Period Ending** | **Period Ending** | **Period Ending** | **Period Ending** | **Period Ending** | **Period Ending** |
|<br>**Index** | **12/31/20** | **12/31/21** | **12/31/22** | **12/31/23** | **12/31/24** | **12/31/25** |
| OceanFirst Financial Corp. | $100.00 | $123.13 | $122.08 | $104.71 | $114.57 | $119.00 |
| NASDAQ Composite Index | 100.00 | 122.18 | 82.43 | 119.22 | 154.48 | 187.14 |
| KBW Regional Banking Index | 100.00 | 136.64 | 127.17 | 126.67 | 143.39 | 152.71 |

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For both years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company paid an annual cash dividend of $0.80 per share.

On June 25, 2021, the Company announced the authorization to repurchase up to an additional 5% of the Company's outstanding common stock, or 3.0 million shares. Further, on July 16, 2025, the Company announced its Board authorized a 2025 Stock Repurchase Program to repurchase up to an additional 3.0 million shares. The stock repurchase plans have no scheduled expiration date and the Board of Directors has the right to suspend or discontinue the plans at any time. The Company did not repurchase any shares of its common stock through the stock repurchase programs during the quarter ended December 31, 2025. At December 31, 2025, there were 3,226,284 shares available for repurchase under the Company's stock repurchase programs.

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For the three months ended December 31, 2025, 29,284 shares were repurchased outside of the Company's stock repurchase program at an average share price of $19.05. The Company repurchased these shares from employees that elected to exercise vested stock options. These shares were repurchased pursuant to the terms of the applicable plan and not under the Company's share repurchase program.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Period** | **Total Number of Shares Purchased** | **Average Price Paid per Share** |
| October 1, 2025 through October 31, 2025 | 1319 | $19.23 |
| November 1, 2025 through November 30, 2025 | 2385 | 17.81 |
| December 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025 | 25580 | 19.15 |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 6.** | **Reserved** |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 7.** | **Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations** |

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**Overview**

The Company conducts business primarily through its ownership of the Bank, which, at December 31, 2025, primarily operated out of its headquarters located in Toms River, New Jersey and its administrative office located in Red Bank, New Jersey. The Bank also conducts its business at 41 branch offices and various deposit production facilities located throughout central and southern New Jersey and major metropolitan areas of New York City and Philadelphia. The Bank also operates commercial loan production offices in New Jersey, New York City, the greater Philadelphia area, Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., Baltimore, Boston and Northern Virginia.

The Company's results of operations are primarily dependent on net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income earned on interest-earning assets, such as loans and investments, and the interest expense on its interest-bearing liabilities, such as deposits and borrowings. The Company also generates non-interest income such as income from bankcard services, trust and asset management products and services, deposit account services, sales of loans and investments, bank owned life insurance and commercial loan swap income. The Company's operating expenses primarily consist of compensation and employee benefits, occupancy and equipment, marketing, federal deposit insurance and regulatory assessments, data processing, check card processing, professional fees and other general and administrative expenses. The Company's results of operations are significantly affected by competition, general economic conditions, including levels of unemployment and real estate values, as well as changes in market interest rates, inflation, government policies, including the imposition of tariffs and retaliatory responses, and actions of regulatory agencies.

**Strategy**

The Company operates as a full-service regional community bank delivering comprehensive financial products and services, which includes commercial financing, deposit services, and wealth management products and services, throughout New Jersey and in the major metropolitan areas from Massachusetts through Virginia. The Company competes with larger, out-of-market financial service providers through its entrenched presence in local markets, digital delivery channels, and agility to provide superior service at speed. The Company also competes with smaller in-market financial service providers by offering a broad array of products and services as well as the ability to extend larger credits.

The Company's strategy has been to grow profitability while limiting exposure to credit, interest rate, and operational risks. To accomplish these objectives, the Company has sought to: (1) diversify and strengthen its deposit base through product offerings appealing to a broadened customer base; (2) grow the commercial banking business, with a particular focus on strengthening commercial and industrial banking; and (3) improve operating efficiency through the ongoing investment in information technology and infrastructure.

On October 15, 2025, the Company outsourced its residential loan originations, which also included home equity loans and lines and other consumer, to a national mortgage banking company. The Company continued to process outstanding commitments to originate residential and consumer loans through December 2025. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had $9.5 million of residential loans and no consumer loans in the pipeline, which represents the remaining commitments expected to close in 2026.

The Company focuses on prudent growth to create value for stockholders, which may include opportunistic acquisitions. Refer to Item 1 - Recent Developments for further discussion on the pending merger with Flushing.

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The Company has continued to maintain and strengthen its liquidity and capital position, while servicing its customers and communities. Refer to 'Liquidity and Capital Resources' for further discussion.

*Diversify and Strengthen Deposit Base*

The Company continues to focus on deposit growth through a series of initiatives intended to both grow deposits and diversify sources of liquidity. The Company seeks to increase deposits in its primary market area by improving market penetration, expanding deposit gathering initiatives and investing in deposit focused talent acquisition. In 2025, the Company added Premier Banking teams for relationship driven, team based approach to service resulting in superior high touch client experience. As a result, the Company is focused on growing commercial deposit relationships through this stable low cost deposit vertical as another funding lever to support future loan growth.

The Company has benefited from and remains focused on efforts to attract business deposits in conjunction with its commercial lending operations and from an expanded mix of retail products and services. Ongoing product development and design to deepen market penetration will allow the Company to rely on competencies in commercial lending and the retail branch network to drive growth and diversification of deposits. The Company continues to invest in the overall customer experience with the Company's customer satisfaction performance and digital capabilities on par with national banks and fintech companies.

*Commercial Banking*

The Company continues to distinguish itself from the mega-bank competition with access to responsive, local decision-makers and from the smaller bank competition that are unable to deliver the same depth of products, services, and technology. The Company supports commercial business clients of varying sizes and complexity through the extension of credit and cash management services through its advisory relationship management model. The Company has had success in developing new client relationships in the Company's focused expansion markets, which include Boston, Northern Virginia and Baltimore. Expanding the Company's geographies and diversifying the loan book provides a hedge on risks deriving from concentration in a single market.

While these growth markets are important to the Company's strategy, the Company has continued efforts to keep the community bank feel for customers, employees, and stakeholders, which has been a focal point for longstanding stable funding, brand reputation, and community development efforts in the Company's legacy markets.

The Company's early expansion efforts were dependent on CRE lending; however, its path forward as a regional bank includes a transition away from CRE dependence and a focus on future growth predominately around the C&I portfolio. The Company has continued to make significant efforts to recruit new relationship managers that specialize in clients operating in deposit heavy industries. The Company anticipates that the acquisition of these customers will continue to help drive quality funding through deeper deposit relationships. Additionally, the Company continues to improve its treasury management capabilities by enhancing services through expanded product offerings and thoughtfully evaluating opportunities to further bolster talent and technology to better serve the Company's customers.

At December 31, 2025, commercial loans (which includes multi-family and commercial real estate loans, commercial construction loans, and commercial and industrial loans) represented 69.2% of the Company's total loans, as compared to 67.4% at December 31, 2024, of which commercial and industrial loans represented 20.1% of total loans as compared to 15.3% at December 31, 2024.

Commercial loan products entail a higher degree of credit risk than other real estate lending activity. As a result, management continues to employ a well-defined credit policy focusing on quality underwriting and close oversight and Board monitoring. See <u>Risk Factors – Risks Related to Lending Activities – The Company's emphasis on commercial lending may expose the Company to increased lending risks</u>.

*Operating Efficiency*

The Company relies on technology and the resources that support its operations to provide a broad suite of financial services and experience to its customers and employees, to differentiate the Company in its diverse markets, and to drive operational efficiencies that yield performance with strong customer services. The Company's investment in technology, including modern data model incorporating artificial intelligence into processing efforts, lays a foundation for future growth, scale, and operational efficiency while maintaining a secure and robust cybersecurity framework. Focus areas include digital-direct customer engagement, efficient customer servicing, supporting safe banking operations and strategic technology change, and competitively delivering new lending and customer self-service capabilities.

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**Capital Management**

The Company actively manages its capital position to ensure adequate coverage and improve return on stockholders' equity. The Company conducts capital stress testing, which includes evaluating the effects of various scenarios on capital, as one means of evaluating capital adequacy. The results of stress testing are considered in the capital planning process and strategy development.

The Company also analyzes the need to raise additional capital in the future, through issuance of debt or equity, to meet its commitments and business needs. During 2025, the Company redeemed in full its preferred stock for $55.5 million and issued $185.0 million of subordinated notes in October 2025 at an initial rate of 6.375% and stated maturity of November 15, 2035. The proceeds were primarily used to redeem the Company's subordinated notes due May 15, 2030, with a principal amount of $125.0 million, in November 2025. Further, in December 2025, the Bank executed a credit risk transfer consisting of a credit default swap related to a $1.52 billion pool of on-balance sheet residential mortgage loans, as the buyer of credit protection, to optimize regulatory capital levels and reduce credit risk.

Over the past five years, the Company has implemented or announced two stock repurchase programs. On June 25, 2021, the Company announced the authorization to repurchase up to an additional 5% of the Company's outstanding common stock, or 3.0 million shares. On July 16, 2025, the Company announced its Board authorized a 2025 Stock Repurchase Program to repurchase up to an additional 3.0 million shares. For the year ended December 31, 2025, the Company repurchased 1,433,537 shares of its common stock. Of these repurchased shares, 108,621 shares were repurchased outside of the Company's stock repurchase program. The Company repurchased these shares from employees that elected to sell shares to cover their withholding tax obligations on vested stock awards and options. At December 31, 2025, the Company remains authorized to repurchase 3,226,284 shares and will prudently evaluate repurchase opportunities while maintaining existing capital levels.

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**Selected Financial Data**

The selected consolidated financial and other data of the Company set forth below is derived in part from, and should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company and Notes thereto presented elsewhere in this Annual Report.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** | **At December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) | (dollars in thousands) |
| **Selected Financial Condition Data:** |  |  |  |
| Total assets | $14564317 | $13421247 | $13538253 |
| Debt securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value | 1231827 | 827500 | 753892 |
| Debt securities held-to-maturity, net of allowance for securities credit losses | 881568 | 1045875 | 1159735 |
| Equity investments | 91882 | 84104 | 100163 |
| Restricted equity investments, at cost | 129329 | 108634 | 93766 |
| Loans receivable, net of allowance for loan credit losses | 10970666 | 10055429 | 10136721 |
| Deposits | 10964405 | 10066342 | 10434949 |
| FHLB advances | 1397179 | 1072611 | 848636 |
| Securities sold under agreements to repurchase and other borrowings | 309667 | 258113 | 269604 |
| Total stockholders' equity | 1662550 | 1702757 | 1661945 |
|  | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
|  | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
|  | (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) | (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) | (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) |
| **Selected Operating Data:** |  |  |  |
| Interest income | $642454 | $642173 | $607974 |
| Interest expense | 282231 | 308138 | 238243 |
| Net interest income | 360223 | 334035 | 369731 |
| Provision for credit losses | 16171 | 7689 | 17678 |
| Net interest income after provision for credit losses | 344052 | 326346 | 352053 |
| Other income | 44701 | 50187 | 33624 |
| Operating expenses | 296237 | 245877 | 248912 |
| Income before provision for income taxes | 92516 | 130656 | 136765 |
| Provision for income taxes | 21489 | 30266 | 32700 |
| Net income | $71027 | $100390 | $104065 |
| Net income attributable to non-controlling interest | 49 | 325 | 36 |
| Net income attributable to OceanFirst Financial Corp. | $70978 | $100065 | $104029 |
| Net income available to common stockholders | $67128 | $96049 | $100013 |
| Basic earnings per share | $1.17 | $1.65 | $1.70 |
| Diluted earnings per share | $1.17 | $1.65 | $1.70 |

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(continued)

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **At or for the Year Ended December 31,** | **At or for the Year Ended December 31,** | **At or for the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| **Selected Financial Ratios and Other Data** <sup>(1)</sup>**:** |  |  |  |
| **Performance Ratios:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Return on average assets <sup>(2)(3)</sup> | 0.49% | 0.71% | 0.74% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Return on average stockholders' equity <sup>(2)(3)</sup> | 4.00 | 5.70 | 6.13 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Stockholders' equity to total assets | 11.42 | 12.69 | 12.28 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Net interest rate spread <sup>(4)</sup> | 2.36 | 2.13 | 2.51 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Net interest margin <sup>(5)</sup> | 2.90 | 2.72 | 3.02 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Operating expenses to average assets <sup>(2)</sup> | 2.18 | 1.82 | 1.85 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Efficiency ratio <sup>(2)(6)</sup> | 73.16 | 63.99 | 61.71 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Loans-to-deposits ratio <sup>(7)</sup> | 100.60 | 100.50 | 97.70 |
| **Asset Quality Ratios** <sup>(8)</sup>**:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Non-performing loans as a percent of total loans receivable <sup>(7)(9)</sup> | 0.25 | 0.35 | 0.29 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Non-performing assets as a percent of total assets <sup>(9)</sup> | 0.26 | 0.28 | 0.22 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for loan credit losses as a percent of total loans receivable <sup>(7)(10)</sup> | 0.76 | 0.73 | 0.66 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for loan credit losses as a percent of total non-performing loans <sup>(9)(10)</sup> | 301.27 | 207.19 | 227.21 |
| **Wealth Management (dollars in thousands):** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;AUA/M <sup>(11)</sup> | $142030 | $147956 | $335769 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Nest Egg AUA/M | 485606 | 431434 | 401420 |
| **Per Share Data:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Cash dividends per common share | $0.80 | $0.80 | $0.80 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Dividend payout ratio per common share | 68.38% | 48.48% | 47.06% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Stockholders' equity per common share at end of period | $28.97 | $29.08 | $27.96 |
| Number of full-service customer facilities: | 41 | 39 | 39 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)With the exception of end of year ratios, all ratios are based on average daily balances.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)Performance ratios for 2025 included a net expense related to net gain on equity investments, restructuring charges, loss on redemption of preferred stock, credit risk transfer execution expense, FDIC special assessment release and merger related expenses of $15.9 million, or $12.9 million, net of tax benefit. Performance ratios for 2024 included a net benefit related to Spring Garden opening provision for credit losses, a net gain on equity investments, a net gain on sale of trust business, FDIC special assessment and merger related expenses of $3.2 million, or $2.5 million, net of tax expense. Performance ratios for 2023 included a net expense related to merger related expenses, net branch consolidation expense, FDIC special assessment, net loss on sale of investments and net gain on equity investments of $6.2 million, or $4.7 million, net of tax benefit.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)Ratios for each period are based on net income available to common stockholders.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4)Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the weighted average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5)Net interest margin represents net interest income as a percentage of average interest-earning assets.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6)Efficiency ratio represents the ratio of operating expenses to the aggregate of other income and net interest income.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7)Total loans receivable excludes loans held-for-sale.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8)The years ended December 31, 2023 and 2024 include the addition and subsequent resolution of a single commercial relationship exposure of $7.2 million, which had life-to-date charge-offs of $10.0 million.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9)Non-performing assets consist of non-performing loans and real estate acquired through foreclosure. Non-performing loans and assets generally consist of all loans 90 days or more past due and other loans in the process of foreclosure. It is the Company's policy to cease accruing interest on all such loans and to reverse previously accrued interest.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(10)Loans acquired from acquisitions were recorded at fair value. The net unamortized credit and PCD marks on these loans, not reflected in the allowance for loan credit losses, was $4.0 million, $6.0 million, and $7.5 million at December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023, respectively.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(11)During 2024, the Company sold a portion of its trust business resulting in gain on sale of $2.6 million.

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**Summary**

Highlights of the Company's financial results for the year ended December 31, 2025 as compared to December 31, 2024 were as follows:

Total assets increased by $1.14 billion to $14.56 billion, from $13.42 billion, primarily due to increases in loans and securities. Total loans increased by $913.9 million to $11.03 billion, from $10.12 billion, primarily due to an increase of $797.1 million in the total commercial portfolio. Debt securities available-for-sale increased by $404.3 million to $1.23 billion, from $827.5 million, primarily due to new purchases. Debt securities held-to-maturity decreased by $164.3 million to $881.6 million, from $1.05 billion, primarily due to principal repayments.

Total liabilities increased by $1.18 billion to $12.90 billion, from $11.72 billion primarily related to an increase in deposits and FHLB advances. Deposits increased by $898.1 million to $10.96 billion, from $10.07 billion, primarily due to increases in time deposits of $387.9 million and interest bearing deposits of $353.9 million. FHLB advances increased by $324.6 million to $1.40 billion, from $1.07 billion as a result of lower-cost funding availability.

Net income available to common stockholders decreased to $67.1 million, or $1.17 per diluted share, as compared to $96.0 million, or $1.65 per diluted share. Net income available to common stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2025 included a net gain on equity investments of $916,000, restructuring charges of $11.5 million, merger related expenses of $4.3 million, credit risk transfer execution expense of $1.3 million, a $210,000 release of FDIC special assessment fees, and a net loss on redemption of preferred stock of $1.8 million. These items decreased net income in the current year by $14.8 million, net of tax. The above items decreased diluted earnings per share by $0.26.

Net income available to common stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2024 included an opening provision for credit losses related to the acquisition of Spring Garden of $1.4 million, net gain on equity investments of $4.2 million, net gain on sale of trust business of $2.6 million, merger related expenses of $1.8 million, and a special assessment charge of $418,000 related to the FDIC's final rule to recover the loss on the DIF. These items increased net income in the prior year by $2.5 million, net of tax, and diluted earnings per share by $0.05.

The Company's common equity tier 1 capital ratio was 10.72% at December 31, 2025. Additionally, the Company remains well-capitalized with a stockholders' equity to total assets ratio of 11.42% at December 31, 2025.

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**Analysis of Net Interest Income**

Net interest income represents the difference between income on interest-earning assets and expense on interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest income depends upon the relative amounts of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and the interest rate earned or paid on them. For the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023, interest income included net loan fees of $5.7 million, $3.3 million, and $2.9 million, respectively.

The following table sets forth certain information relating to the Company for each of the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023. The yields and costs, which are annualized, are derived by dividing the income or expense by the average balance of the related assets or liabilities, respectively, for the periods shown except where noted otherwise. Average balances are derived from average daily balances. The yields and costs include certain fees and costs which are considered adjustments to yields.

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| | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** | **2024** | **2023** | **2023** | **2023** |
| **(dollars in thousands)** | **Average<br>Balance** | **Interest** | **Average<br>Yield/<br>Cost** | **Average<br>Balance** | **Interest** | **Average<br>Yield/<br>Cost** | **Average<br>Balance** | **Interest** | **Average<br>Yield/<br>Cost** |
| **Assets:** |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Interest-earning assets: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Interest-earning deposits and short-term investments | $100051 | $4176 | 4.17% | $175611 | $9381 | 5.34% | $327539 | $17084 | 5.22% |
| Securities <sup>(1)</sup> | 2063446 | 81384 | 3.94 | 2084451 | 87549 | 4.20 | 1905413 | 69025 | 3.62 |
| Loans receivable, net <sup>(2)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial | 6983023 | 413646 | 5.92 | 6836728 | 410978 | 6.01 | 6903731 | 400459 | 5.80 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Residential real estate | 3126076 | 129193 | 4.13 | 2998732 | 117747 | 3.93 | 2911246 | 105796 | 3.63 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other consumer | 220942 | 14055 | 6.36 | 243360 | 16518 | 6.79 | 255359 | 15610 | 6.11 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for loan credit losses, net of deferred loan costs and fees | (64796) |  |  | (59289) |  |  | (53477) |  |  |
| Loans receivable, net | 10265245 | 556894 | 5.43 | 10019531 | 545243 | 5.44 | 10016859 | 521865 | 5.21 |
| Total interest-earning assets | 12428742 | 642454 | 5.17 | 12279593 | 642173 | 5.23 | 12249811 | 607974 | 4.96 |
| Non-interest-earning assets | 1186135 |  |  | 1215809 |  |  | 1237218 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total assets | $13614877 |  |  | $13495402 |  |  | $13487029 |  |  |
| **Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity:** |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Interest-bearing liabilities: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest-bearing checking | $4148302 | 88866 | 2.14% | $3923846 | 86320 | 2.20% | $3795502 | 52898 | 1.39% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Money market | 1434355 | 41077 | 2.86 | 1214690 | 41948 | 3.45 | 794387 | 18656 | 2.35 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Savings | 1021341 | 6631 | 0.65 | 1169424 | 11422 | 0.98 | 1364333 | 9227 | 0.68 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Time deposits | 2118145 | 79606 | 3.76 | 2325638 | 102443 | 4.40 | 2440829 | 91237 | 3.74 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 8722143 | 216180 | 2.48 | 8633598 | 242133 | 2.80 | 8395051 | 172018 | 2.05 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;FHLB advances | 996798 | 44997 | 4.51 | 742575 | 35686 | 4.81 | 944219 | 46000 | 4.87 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Securities sold under agreements to repurchase with customers | 62420 | 1711 | 2.74 | 73399 | 1893 | 2.58 | 75140 | 931 | 1.24 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other borrowings | 273130 | 19343 | 7.08 | 484406 | 28426 | 5.87 | 307368 | 19294 | 6.28 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total borrowings | 1332348 | 66051 | 4.96 | 1300380 | 66005 | 5.08 | 1326727 | 66225 | 4.99 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total interest-bearing liabilities | 10054491 | 282231 | 2.81 | 9933978 | 308138 | 3.10 | 9721778 | 238243 | 2.45 |
| Non-interest-bearing deposits | 1678768 |  |  | 1630719 |  |  | 1869735 |  |  |
| Non-interest-bearing liabilities | 202101 |  |  | 245680 |  |  | 262883 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total liabilities | 11935360 |  |  | 11810377 |  |  | 11854396 |  |  |
| Stockholders' equity | 1679517 |  |  | 1685025 |  |  | 1632633 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total liabilities and equity | $13614877 |  |  | $13495402 |  |  | $13487029 |  |  |
| Net interest income |  | $360223 |  |  | $334035 |  |  | $369731 |  |
| Net interest rate spread <sup>(3)</sup> |  |  | 2.36% |  |  | 2.13% |  |  | 2.51% |
| Net interest margin <sup>(4)</sup> |  |  | 2.90% |  |  | 2.72% |  |  | 3.02% |
| Total cost of deposits (including non-interest-bearing deposits) |  |  | 2.08% |  |  | 2.36% |  |  | 1.68% |
| Ratio of interest-earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities | 123.61% |  |  | 123.61% |  |  | 126.00% |  |  |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Amounts represent debt and equity securities, including FHLB and FRB stock, and are recorded at average amortized cost, net of allowance for securities credit losses.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)Amount is net of deferred loan costs and fees, undisbursed loan funds, discounts and premiums and allowance for loan credit losses, and includes loans held-for-sale and non-performing loans.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the yield on interest-earning assets and the cost of interest-bearing liabilities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4)Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.

**Rate Volume Analysis**

The following table presents the extent to which changes in interest rates and changes in the volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities have affected the Company's interest income and interest expense during the periods indicated. Information is provided in each category with respect to: (i) changes attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate); (ii) changes attributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior volume); and (iii) the net change. The changes attributable to the combined impact of volume and rate have been allocated proportionately to the changes due to volume and the changes due to rate.

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** |
| | **Compared to** | **Compared to** | **Compared to** | **Compared to** | **Compared to** | **Compared to** |
| | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2023** | **Year Ended December 31, 2023** | **Year Ended December 31, 2023** |
| | **Increase (Decrease) Due to** | **Increase (Decrease) Due to** | **Increase (Decrease) Due to** | **Increase (Decrease) Due to** | **Increase (Decrease) Due to** | **Increase (Decrease) Due to** |
| **(in thousands)** | **Volume** | **Rate** | **Net** | **Volume** | **Rate** | **Net** |
| Interest-earning assets: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest-earning deposits and short-term investments | $(3451) | $(1754) | $(5205) | $(8106) | $403 | $(7703) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Securities <sup>(1)</sup> | (875) | (5290) | (6165) | 6869 | 11655 | 18524 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loans receivable, net <sup>(2)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial | 8718 | (6050) | 2668 | (3916) | 14435 | 10519 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Residential real estate | 5118 | 6328 | 11446 | 3249 | 8702 | 11951 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other consumer | (1465) | (998) | (2463) | (758) | 1666 | 908 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loans receivable, net <sup>(2)</sup> | 12371 | (720) | 11651 | (1425) | 24803 | 23378 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total interest-earning assets | 8045 | (7764) | 281 | (2662) | 36861 | 34199 |
| Interest-bearing liabilities: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest-bearing checking | 4849 | (2303) | 2546 | 1846 | 31576 | 33422 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Money market | 6920 | (7791) | (871) | 12329 | 10963 | 23292 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Savings | (1313) | (3478) | (4791) | (1461) | 3656 | 2195 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Time deposits | (8633) | (14204) | (22837) | (4466) | 15672 | 11206 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 1823 | (27776) | (25953) | 8248 | 61867 | 70115 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FHLB advances | 11588 | (2277) | 9311 | (9698) | (616) | (10314) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Securities sold under agreements to repurchase with customers | (296) | 114 | (182) | (22) | 984 | 962 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other borrowings | (14138) | 5055 | (9083) | 10462 | (1330) | 9132 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total borrowings | (2846) | 2892 | 46 | 742 | (962) | (220) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total interest-bearing liabilities | (1023) | (24884) | (25907) | 8990 | 60905 | 69895 |
| Net change in net interest income | $9068 | $17120 | $26188 | $(11652) | $(24044) | $(35696) |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Amounts represent debt and equity securities, including FHLB and FRB stock, and are recorded at average amortized cost, net of allowance for securities credit losses.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)Amount is net of deferred loan costs and fees, undisbursed loan funds, discounts and premiums and allowance for loan credit losses, and includes loans held-for-sale and non-performing loans.

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**Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024** 

Total assets increased by $1.14 billion to $14.56 billion, from $13.42 billion, primarily due to increases in loans and, to a lesser extent, securities. Total loans increased by $913.9 million to $11.03 billion, from $10.12 billion, primarily due to an increase of $797.1 million in the total commercial portfolio. The loan pipeline increased by $167.4 million to $474.1 million, from $306.7 million, primarily due to an increase in the commercial loan pipeline of $267.1 million. Debt securities available-for-sale increased by $404.3 million to $1.23 billion, from $827.5 million, primarily due to new purchases. Debt securities held-to-maturity decreased by $164.3 million to $881.6 million, from $1.05 billion, primarily due to principal repayments. Other assets decreased by $36.4 million to $149.3 million, from $185.7 million, primarily due to a decrease in market values associated with customer interest rate swap programs.

Total liabilities increased by $1.18 billion to $12.90 billion, from $11.72 billion primarily related to an increase in deposits and, to a lesser extent, FHLB advances. Deposits increased by $898.1 million to $10.96 billion, from $10.07 billion, primarily due to increases in time deposits of $387.9 million and interest bearing deposits of $353.9 million. Time deposits increased by $387.9 million to $2.47 billion, from $2.08 billion, representing 22.5% and 20.7% of total deposits, respectively. Time deposits included an increase in brokered time deposits of $535.1 million, partly offset by a decrease in retail time deposits of $149.0 million. The loans-to-deposit ratio was 100.6%, as compared to 100.5%. FHLB advances increased by $324.6 million to $1.40 billion, from $1.07 billion as a result of lower-cost funding availability. Other borrowings increased by $57.7 million to $255.2 million, from $197.5 million primarily due to the issuance of $185.0 million in subordinated notes in October 2025 at an initial rate of 6.375% and stated maturity of November 15, 2035. The proceeds were primarily used to redeem the Company's subordinated notes due May 15, 2030, with principal amount of $125.0 million, in November 2025.

Other liabilities decreased by $89.1 million to $209.3 million, from $298.4 million, mostly due to a decrease in the market values of derivatives associated with customer interest rate swaps and related collateral received from counterparties.

Capital levels remain strong and in excess of "well-capitalized" regulatory levels at December 31, 2025, including the Company's common equity tier one capital ratio of 10.72%. For the year ended December 31, 2025, the ratio was primarily impacted by loan growth, increased lending commitments and share repurchases, partly offset by execution of the credit risk transfer entered into in December 2025.

Total stockholders' equity decreased to $1.66 billion, as compared to $1.70 billion, primarily due to the redemption of preferred stock for $55.5 million and capital returns comprised of dividends and share repurchases, partially offset by net income. Additionally, accumulated other comprehensive loss decreased by $13.7 million primarily due to increases in the fair market value of available-for-sale debt securities, net of tax. Noncontrolling interest decreased by $1.1 million due to the disposition of the title business.

During the year ended December 31, 2025, the Company repurchased 1,433,537 shares totaling $24.9 million at a weighted average cost of $17.21, which includes repurchases of exercised options and awards from employees outside of the share repurchase program. On July 16, 2025, the Company announced its Board of Directors authorized a 2025 Stock Repurchase Program to repurchase up to an additional 3.0 million shares. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had 3,226,284 shares available for repurchase under the authorized repurchase programs.

The Company's stockholders' equity to assets ratio was 11.42%, as compared to 12.69% and book value per common share decreased to $28.97, as compared to $29.08.

**Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024** 

***General***

Net income available to common stockholders decreased to $67.1 million, or $1.17 per diluted share, as compared to $96.0 million, or $1.65 per diluted share. Net income available to common stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2025 included a net gain on equity investments of $916,000, restructuring charges of $11.5 million, merger related expenses of $4.3 million, credit risk transfer execution expense of $1.3 million, a $210,000 FDIC special assessment release, and a net loss on redemption of preferred stock of $1.8 million. These items decreased net income in the current year by $14.8 million, net of tax. The above items decreased diluted earnings per share by $0.26. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2024 included the Spring Garden opening provision for credit losses of $1.4 million, net gain on equity investments of $4.2 million, a net gain on sale of a portion of its trust business of $2.6 million, a FDIC special assessment fees of $418,000 and merger related expenses of $1.8 million. These items increased net income for the prior year by $2.5 million, net of tax.

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***Interest Income*** 

Interest income remained relatively stable at $642.5 million, from $642.2 million. The yield on average interest-earning assets decreased to 5.17%, from 5.23%, while the average balance of interest-earning assets increased by $149.1 million. This was primarily driven by an increase in commercial and residential loans.

***Interest Expense***

Interest expense decreased to $282.2 million, from $308.1 million, and the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities decreased to 2.81%, from 3.10%. This was primarily due to lower total cost of deposits, which decreased to 2.08%, from 2.36%. Average interest-bearing liabilities increased by $120.5 million, primarily due to an increase in total deposits.

***Net Interest Income and Margin***

Net interest income increased to $360.2 million, from $334.0 million. Net interest margin increased to 2.90%, from 2.72%, primarily due to the decrease in cost of funds outpacing the decrease in yield on average interest-earning assets.

***Provision for Credit Losses***

Provision for credit losses was $16.2 million, as compared to $7.7 million. The prior year included a $1.4 million initial provision for credit losses related to the acquisition of Spring Garden. The current year provision was primarily driven by net loan growth, an increase in unfunded loan balances and commitments, and elevated macroeconomic uncertainty, partly offset by overall improvements in criticized and classified loans.

Net loan charge-offs were $5.4 million for the current year, as compared to $1.6 million in the prior year. The current year included charge-offs of $2.5 million for four commercial relationships related to the Spring Garden acquisition, and charge-offs of $1.5 million related to sales of non-performing residential and consumer loans during the year. The prior year includes the impact of a $1.6 million charge-off related to a single commercial real estate relationship that was sold in the prior year.

***Non-interest Income***

Other income decreased to $44.7 million, as compared to $50.2 million. Other income for the year ended December 31, 2025 was favorably impacted by net gains on equity investments of $916,000. The prior year was favorably impacted by net gains on equity investments of $4.2 million and a net gain on sale of a portion of its trust business of $2.6 million. The remaining increase of $423,000 was primarily driven by increases in commercial loan swap income of $2.8 million due to new swaps, net gain on sale of loans of $1.3 million, and non-recurring other income of $1.9 million in the current year. These were partly offset by decreases in fees and service charges of $3.9 million related to lower title fees and a decrease of $855,000 related to a non-recurring gain on sale of assets in the prior year.

***Non-interest Expense***

Operating expenses increased to $296.2 million, as compared to $245.9 million. Operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2025 were adversely impacted by $11.5 million of restructuring expenses, $4.3 million of merger related expenses, and $1.3 million of credit risk transfer execution expense, partly offset by a $210,000 release of FDIC special assessment fees. The prior year was adversely impacted by $1.8 million of merger related expenses and $418,000 of FDIC special assessment fees. The remaining increase of $35.7 million, was primary driven by an increase in compensation and benefits expense of $21.0 million related to acquisitions at the end of the prior year and the addition of commercial banking teams during the current year. Additional drivers were increases in professional fees of $4.3 million, partly related to Premier Banking recruitment fees, data processing expense of $3.4 million, other operating expenses of $3.3 million, primarily related to loan servicing expenses, occupancy expense of $2.1 million, partly due to additional space for commercial banking teams, and federal deposit insurance and regulatory assessments of $1.3 million.

***Income Tax Expense***

The provision for income taxes was $21.5 million, as compared to $30.3 million. The effective tax rate was 23.2% for both years. The current year's effective tax rate was adversely impacted by non-deductible merger expenses. The prior year's effective tax rate was adversely impacted by a non-recurring write-off of a deferred tax asset of $1.2 million net of other state effects and credits.

**Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023** 

Refer to the Company's 2024 Form 10-K on pages 50-51.

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**Liquidity and Capital Resources**

*Liquidity Management*

The Company manages its liquidity and funding needs through its Treasury function and the Asset Liability Committee. The Company has an internal policy that addresses liquidity, and management monitors the adherence to policy limits to satisfy current and future cash flow needs. The policy includes internal limits, monitoring of key indicators, deposit concentrations, liquidity sources and availability, stress testing, collateral management, and other qualitative and quantitative metrics.

Management monitors cash on a daily basis to determine the liquidity needs of the Bank and OceanFirst Financial Corp. (the "Parent Company"), a separate legal entity from the Bank. Additionally, management performs multiple liquidity stress test scenarios on a periodic basis. As of December 31, 2025, the Bank and the Parent Company continued to maintain adequate liquidity under all stress scenarios. The Company also has a detailed contingency funding plan and obtains comprehensive reporting of funding trends on a monthly and quarterly basis, which are reviewed by management.

The Company continually evaluates its on-balance sheet liquidity, including cash and unpledged securities and funding capacity at the FHLB and FRB Discount Window, and periodically tests each of its lines of credit. As of December 31, 2025, total on-balance sheet liquidity and funding capacity was $3.8 billion.

The Bank has a highly operational and granular deposit base, with long-standing client relationships across multiple customer segments providing stable funding. The vast majority of government deposits are protected by FDIC insurance as well as the State of New Jersey under the Government Unit Deposit Protection Act, which requires uninsured government deposits to be further collateralized by the Bank. At December 31, 2025, the Bank reported $6.46 billion of estimated uninsured deposits in its Call Report. This total included $2.71 billion of collateralized government deposits and $1.90 billion of intercompany deposits of fully consolidated subsidiaries, leaving estimated adjusted uninsured deposits of $1.85 billion, or 16.8% of total deposits. On balance-sheet liquidity and funding capacity represented 206% of the estimated adjusted uninsured deposits.

The primary sources of liquidity specifically available to the Parent Company are dividends from the Bank, proceeds from the sale of investments, and the issuance of debt and common stock. For the year ended December 31, 2025, the Parent Company received dividend payments of $62.4 million from the Bank. At December 31, 2025, the Parent Company held $87.9 million in cash and cash equivalents.

The Bank's primary sources of funds are deposits, principal and interest payments on loans and investments, FHLB advances, other borrowings and proceeds from the sale of loans and investments. While scheduled payments on loans and securities are predictable sources of funds, deposit flows, loan prepayments, and loan and investment sales are greatly influenced by interest rates, economic conditions, and competition. The Bank has other sources of liquidity if a need for additional funds arises, including lines of credit at multiple financial institutions and access to the FRB Discount Window.

As of December 31, 2025, the Company pledged $7.92 billion of loans with the FHLB and FRB to enhance the Company's borrowing capacity, which included collateral pledged to the FHLB to obtain a letter of credit to collateralize certain municipal deposits. The Company also pledged $1.45 billion of securities to secure borrowings, enhance borrowing capacity, collateralize its repurchase agreements, and for other purposes required by law. The Company had $1.40 billion of FHLB advances, including $929.2 million of outstanding FHLB term advances and $468.0 million of overnight borrowings as of December 31, 2025, as compared to $1.07 billion of FHLB term advances and no outstanding overnight borrowings from the FHLB at December 31, 2024.

The Company issued $185.0 million of subordinated notes in October 2025 at an initial rate of 6.375% and stated maturity of November 15, 2035. The proceeds were primarily used to redeem the Company's subordinated notes due May 15, 2030, with principal amount of $125.0 million, in November 2025.

The Company's cash needs for the year ended December 31, 2025 were primarily satisfied by increased deposits, net proceeds from FHLB advances, and principal repayments of securities, and primarily utilized to fund loan growth and to purchase debt securities. The Company's cash needs for the year ended December 31, 2024 were primarily satisfied by FHLB advances and principal and interest payments on loans and securities and primarily utilized for the reduction of deposits.

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*Off-Balance Sheet Commitments and Contractual Obligations*

In the normal course of business, the Bank routinely enters into various off-balance-sheet commitments, primarily relating to the origination and funding of loans. At December 31, 2025, outstanding commitments to originate loans totaled $474.1 million and outstanding undrawn lines of credit totaled $1.88 billion, of which $1.60 billion were commitments to commercial and commercial construction borrowers and $278.8 million were commitments to consumer and residential construction borrowers. Commitments to fund undrawn lines of credit and commitments to originate loans are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the existing contracts. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since some of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The Company's exposure to credit risk is represented by the contractual amount of the instruments. These commitments are further discussed in Note 13 Commitments, Contingencies and Concentrations of Credit Risk, to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

At December 31, 2025, the Company also had various contractual obligations, which included debt obligations of $1.71 billion, including finance lease obligations of $1.1 million and an additional $19.0 million in operating lease obligations included in other liabilities, and purchase obligations of $70.1 million Refer to Note 9 Borrowed Funds and Note 17 Leases to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of debt obligations and lease obligations, respectively. Purchase obligations represent legally binding and enforceable agreements to purchase goods and services from third parties and consist primarily of contractual obligations under data processing servicing agreements. Actual amounts expended vary based on transaction volumes, number of users, and other factors. The Company expects to have sufficient funds available to meet current commitments in the normal course of business.

Time deposits scheduled to mature in one year or less totaled $2.43 billion at December 31, 2025. If these deposits do not remain with the Company, it may need to seek other sources of funds, including other deposit products, advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York and other borrowing sources. Depending on market conditions, the Company may be required to pay higher rates on such deposits or borrowings than it currently pays.

*Liquidity Used in Stock Repurchases and Cash Dividends*

Under the Company's stock repurchase program, shares of its common stock may be purchased in the open market and through other privately negotiated transactions, from time-to-time, depending on market conditions. The repurchased shares are held as treasury stock for general corporate purposes. For the year ended December 31, 2025, the Company repurchased 1,433,537 shares of its common stock totaling $24.9 million. Of these repurchased shares for the year ended December 31, 2025, 108,621 shares were repurchased outside of the Company's stock repurchase program. The Company repurchased these shares from employees that elected to sell shares to cover their withholding tax obligations on vested stock awards and options. On July 16, 2025, the Company announced its Board authorized a 2025 Stock Repurchase Program to repurchase up to an additional 3.0 million shares. At December 31, 2025, there were 3,226,284 shares available to be repurchased under the authorized stock repurchase program.

Cash dividends on common stock declared and paid during the year ended December 31, 2025 were $46.2 million, as compared to $46.9 million for the prior year. Cash dividends on preferred stock declared and paid during the years ended December 31, 2025 were $2.0 million, as compared to $4.0 million for the prior year. On May 15, 2025, the Company redeemed all 57,370 shares of its 7.00% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A. The aggregate payment of $57.4 million, at a redemption price of $25.00 per share, resulted in a net loss on redemption of $1.8 million.

The Parent Company's ability to continue to repurchase shares of common stock and pay dividends depends on capital distributions from the Bank, which may be adversely affected by capital restraints imposed by applicable regulations. If applicable regulations or regulators prevent the Bank from paying a dividend to the Parent Company, the Parent Company may not have the liquidity necessary to repurchase shares of common stock or pay a dividend in the future or pay a dividend at the same rate as historically paid or be able to meet current debt obligations. Additionally, regulations of the Federal Reserve may prevent the Parent Company from either paying or increasing the cash dividend to common stockholders. These regulatory policies may affect the ability of the Parent Company to pay dividends, repurchase shares of common stock, or otherwise engage in capital distributions.

*Capital Management*

The Company manages its capital sources, uses, and expected future needs through its Treasury function and the Asset Liability Committee. The Company has an internal policy that addresses capital and management monitors the adherence to policy limits

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to satisfy current and future capital needs. The policy includes internal limits, monitoring of key indicators, sources and availability, intercompany transactions, forecasts and stress testing, and other qualitative and quantitative metrics.

Management performs multiple capital stress test scenarios on a quarterly basis, varying loan growth, earnings, access to the capital markets, credit losses, and mark-to-market losses in the investment portfolio, including both available-for-sale and held-to-maturity. As of December 31, 2025, the Bank and Company continued to maintain adequate capital under all stress scenarios. The Bank and the Parent Company also have detailed contingency capital plans and obtain comprehensive reporting of capital trends on a regular basis, which are reviewed by management and the Board.

In December 2025, the Company executed a credit risk transfer consisting of a credit default swap related to a $1.52 billion pool of on-balance sheet residential mortgage loans, as the buyer of credit protection, to manage regulatory capital levels and reduce credit risk. This transaction reduced the risk-weighted assets for this pool of loans for regulatory capital purposes.

The Company and the Bank satisfied the criteria to be "well-capitalized" under the Prompt Corrective Action Regulations. See <u>Regulation and Supervision—Bank Regulation – Capital Requirements</u>.

At December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company maintained stockholders' equity to total assets ratio of 11.42% and 12.69%, respectively.

**Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates**

Note 1 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to the Company's Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2025 contains a summary of significant accounting policies. Various elements of these accounting policies, by their nature, are subject to estimation techniques, valuation assumptions and other subjective assessments. Certain assets are carried on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition at estimated fair value or the lower of cost or estimated fair value. Policies with respect to the methodology used to determine the allowance for credit losses is a critical accounting policy and estimate because of its importance to the presentation of the Company's financial condition and results of operations. The critical accounting policy involves a higher degree of complexity and requires management to make difficult and subjective judgments which often require assumptions or estimates about highly uncertain matters. The use of different judgments, assumptions, and estimates could result in material differences in the results of operations or financial condition. The critical accounting policy and its application is reviewed periodically, and at least annually, with the Audit Committee of the Board.

Allowance for credit losses in accordance with ASU 2016-13, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (Topic 326), was a critical accounting policy in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements as of and for the period ended December 31, 2025.

Goodwill in accordance with ASC 350, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other, was a critical accounting estimate in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements as of and for the period ended December 31, 2025.

**Allowance for Credit Losses**

The Company's methodology to measure the ACL incorporates both quantitative and qualitative information to assess lifetime

expected credit losses at the portfolio segment level.

The quantitative component of the ACL involves assumptions that require a significant level of estimation; these include historical losses as a predictor of future performance, and the accuracy of macro-economic forecasts over a reasonable and supportable forecast period. The Company has elected to use an open pool method and extends its look back period each quarter to capture as many data points as possible in its historical loss rate calculation. A historical data set is expected to provide the best indication of future credit performance. Alternative loss calculation methods, such as vintage and migration methodologies, limit observable data to closed pools of loans, which excludes performance data from the historical loss rate calculation.

Macro-economic forecasts used in the quantitative analysis are provided by a third-party leader in global forecasting. The Company uses the base case macro-economic forecast to reflect the consensus view of future economic conditions. Electing scenarios that are stronger or weaker than the base case would reduce or increase, respectively, the ACL measurement. The Company measures the accuracy of the macro-economic forecasts quarterly to identify any material deviations that would be considered for a qualitative adjustment. The Company assumes a reasonable and supportable forecast period of eight quarters and a reversion period of four quarters based on the analysis of historical U.S. business cycles.

------

Prepayment and forward interest rate projections are also assumptions used in the quantitative model subject to estimation. Changes in these assumptions have varying implications to the ACL measurement. For example, faster prepayment rates would shorten the life of loans and reduce the lifetime expected credit loss, whereas slower prepayment rates would have the inverse effect.

The Company considers qualitative adjustments to expected credit loss estimates for information not already captured in the loss estimation process. Qualitative loss factors are grounded in the Company's long-term credit losses and reflect an assumption that past behavior is a reasonable predictor of future performance. The Company considers the peak two-year net charge off rate to capture maximum potential volatility over the reasonable and supportable forecast period. Historical losses that inform the guardrails for the qualitative adjustments are anchored to 2005 and extended annually. This period is intended to represent the credit profile of the current portfolio and capture prior performance in a severe economic recession. These guardrails are updated annually to capture recent behavior that is indicative of the credit profile of the current portfolio.

Management considers subjective, objective, and unique qualitative factors at each estimation date. Subjective factors incorporate external factors, personnel, and controls, as well as portfolio composition and performances. Subjective factors also include: local competition; portfolio nature, volume and concentration; credit trends; lending policy, procedure and loan review; lending management and staff; regulatory changes and forecast uncertainty. Objective factors address gaps in the quantitative model, such as the limited loss history and the inherent risk of Special Mention commercial real estate loans. Unique factors will capture one-time events, such as environmental threats and model updates that are expected to impact performance over the forecast period. Unique factors are identified, assessed, and documented in the quarter they are applied. Since 2022, the Company incorporated unique factors to address macro-economic uncertainty and alternative economic forecast projections.

Although management believes that it uses the best information available to establish the ACL in conformity with GAAP, future adjustments to the ACL may be necessary and results of operations could be adversely affected if circumstances differ substantially from the assumptions used in making the determinations. For example, at December 31, 2025, if the Company had elected a scenario using one level more favorable credit trends in the qualitative input in its commercial portfolio, the ACL measurement would have been approximately $2.7 million lower. Alternatively, if the Company had elected a more adverse scenario for its macro-economic forecasts, the ACL measurement would have been approximately $11.5 million higher. These sensitivity scenarios do not represent a change in the Company's expectations of credit performance or the economic environment but provide hypothetical results to assess the sensitivity of the ACL to changes in key inputs.

Given the level of uncertainty and the material impact on the ACL measurement, all assumptions are reviewed and updated as necessary at each estimation date. Other than discussed above, there were no changes in the estimation methodology for these assumptions in 2025.

**Goodwill** 

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of identifiable net assets acquired through purchase acquisitions. Goodwill is evaluated for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate potential impairment between annual measurement dates (i.e. triggering events). For the purposes of goodwill impairment testing, management has concluded that the Company has one reporting unit and the annual impairment test is performed as of August 31.

Testing of goodwill impairment comprises a two-step process. First, the Company performs a qualitative assessment to evaluate relevant events or circumstances to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the Company is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. The factors considered in the qualitative assessment include macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions and the overall financial performance of the Company, among other factors. If the Company determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of the Company is less than its carrying amounts, then it proceeds to the quantitative impairment test, whereby it calculates the fair value of the Company. In its performance of impairment testing, management has the unconditional option to proceed directly to the quantitative impairment test, bypassing the qualitative assessment. If the carrying amount of the Company exceeds its fair value, the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds fair value, up to the carrying value of goodwill, is recorded through earnings as an impairment charge. If the results of the qualitative assessment indicate that it is not more likely than not that an impairment has occurred, or if the quantitative impairment test results in a fair value of the Company that is greater than the carrying amount, then no impairment charge is recorded.

------

The Company completed its annual goodwill impairment test as of August 31, 2025. For the annual test, the Company bypassed the qualitative assessment and proceeded directly to the quantitative impairment test based on the stock price of the Company on the measurement date and economic uncertainty. To perform the quantitative assessment, the Company engaged a third-party service provider to assist management with the determination of the fair value of the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of equity using the market capitalization method of the market approach, consideration of initiatives unknown by the market and evaluation of any implied control premium.

The market capitalization method calculated the aggregate market value of the Company based on the total number of outstanding shares of common and preferred stock and the market prices of the shares as of the assessment date. The Company evaluated conditions that were unknown by the market as of the assessment date and how a market participant would evaluate an implied control premium for the Company. The implied control premium was supported using a discounted cash flow analysis that contemplated the present value of assumed market participant cost savings and synergies.

The DCF analysis was utilized to estimate the present value of future cash flows. A DCF analysis requires significant judgment to model financial forecasts, which included forward interest rates, fee generation and expense incurrence, industry and economic trends, and other relevant considerations. For periods beyond those forecasted, a terminal value was estimated based on an assumed long-term growth rate, which was derived using the Gordon Growth Model. The discount rate applied to the forecasted cash flows was calculated using a build-up approach, which starts with the risk-free interest rate, which was then calibrated for market and company specific risk premiums, including a beta, equity risk, size, and company-specific risk premiums to reflect risks and uncertainties in the financial market and in the Company's business projections.

Significant negative industry or economic trends, including declines in the market price of the Company's stock, reduced estimates of future cash flows or business disruptions could result in impairments to goodwill in the future, which would result in recording an impairment loss. Any resulting impairment loss could have a material adverse impact on the Company's financial condition and results of operations. Management will continue evaluating the economic conditions at future reporting periods for triggering events.

The results of the quantitative assessment indicated that the fair value of the Company's reporting unit exceeded its carrying amount, which resulted in no impairment loss at August 31, 2025.

Management continued to carefully assess and evaluate all available information for potential triggering events after the August 31 annual testing date and through December 31, 2025. Management concluded no triggering events were identified subsequent to the August 31, 2025 annual test date.

**Impact of New Accounting Pronouncements**

For further information regarding accounting pronouncements, refer to Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

**Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices**

The consolidated financial statements and notes thereto presented herein have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, which require the measurement of financial position and operating results in terms of historical dollar amounts without considering the changes in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. The impact of inflation is reflected in the increased cost of the Company's operations. Unlike industrial companies, nearly all of the assets and liabilities of the Company are monetary in nature. As a result, interest rates have a greater impact on the Company's performance than do the effects of general levels of inflation. Interest rates do not necessarily move in the same direction or to the same extent as the price of goods and services.

------

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 7A.** | **Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk** |

---

**Management of IRR**

Market risk is the risk of loss from adverse changes in market prices and rates. The Company's market risk arises primarily from the IRR inherent in its lending, investment, deposit-taking, and funding activities. The Company's profitability is affected by fluctuations in interest rates. Changes in interest rates may negatively or positively impact the Company's earnings to the extent that the interest rates borne by assets and liabilities do not change at the same speed, to the same extent or on the same basis. Changes in interest rates may also negatively or positively impact the market value of the Company's investment securities, in particular fixed-rate instruments. Net gains or losses in available-for-sale securities can increase or decrease accumulated other comprehensive income or loss and total stockholders' equity. Management actively monitors and manages IRR. The extent of the movement of interest rates, higher or lower, is an uncertainty that could have a substantial impact on the earnings and stockholders' equity of the Company.

The principal objectives of the IRR management function are to: evaluate the IRR inherent in the Company's business; determine the level of risk appropriate given the Company's business focus, operating and interest rate environment, capital and liquidity requirements, and performance objectives; and manage the risk consistent with Board approved guidelines. The Company maintains an ALCO consisting of members of management, responsible for reviewing asset liability policies and the IRR position. ALCO meets regularly and reports the Company's IRR position and trends to the Board on a regular basis.

The Company utilizes a number of strategies to manage IRR including, but not limited to: (1) managing the origination, purchase, sale, and retention of various types of loans with differing IRR profiles; (2) attempting to reduce the overall interest rate sensitivity of liabilities by emphasizing stable relationship-based deposits and longer-term deposits; (3) selectively purchasing interest rate swaps and caps converting the rates for customer loans to manage individual loans and the Company's overall IRR profile; (4) managing the investment portfolio IRR profile; (5) managing the maturities and rate structures of borrowings and time deposits; and (6) purchasing interest rate swaps to manage overall balance sheet interest rate risk.

The matching of assets and liabilities may be analyzed by examining the extent to which such assets and liabilities are "interest rate sensitive." Interest rate sensitivity is monitored through the use of an IRR model, which measures the change in the institution's EVE and net interest income under various interest rate scenarios. EVE is the difference between the net present value of assets, liabilities and off-balance-sheet contracts. Interest rate sensitivity is monitored by management through the use of a model which measures IRR by modeling the change in EVE and net interest income over a range of interest rate scenarios. Modeled assets and liabilities are assumed to reprice at respective repricing or maturity dates. Pricing caps and floors are included in the results, where applicable. The Company uses prepayment expectations set forth by market sources as well as Company generated data where applicable. Generally, cash flows from loans and securities are assumed to be reinvested to maintain a static balance sheet. Other assumptions about balance sheet mix are generally held constant.

The methodologies and assumptions used in this analysis are periodically evaluated and refined in response to changes in the market environment, changes in the Company's balance sheet composition, enhancements in the Company's modeling and other factors. Such changes may affect historical comparisons of these results. For loans, investments, borrowings and time deposits, the fair value used in the EVE closely aligns with the Company's fair value measurements defined within Note 15, Fair Value Measurements to the consolidated financial statements. However, for non-maturity deposits, the fair value differs for EVE as it also considers the likelihood of deposit withdrawals and the current weighted average deposit rate relative to market rates. The Company's weighted average age of non-maturity deposit accounts was approximately 15.5 years, and the weighted average cost was 1.52%.

------

The Company performs a variety of EVE and twelve-month net interest income sensitivity scenarios. At both December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company was in compliance with Board guidelines for each scenario. The following table sets forth sensitivity for a specific range of interest rate scenarios as of December 31, 2025 and 2024.

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** | **December 31, 2024** |
| **Change in Interest Rates in Basis Points** | **Economic Value of Equity** | **Net Interest Income** | **Economic Value of Equity** | **Net Interest Income** |
| **(Rate Shock)** | **% Change** | **% Change** | **% Change** | **% Change** |
| 300 | (6.6)% | (2.5)% | (6.2)% | (0.8)% |
| 200 | (4.0) | (1.4) | (3.6) | 0.1 |
| 100 | (1.7) | (0.6) | (1.5) | 0.4 |
| Static |  |  |  |  |
| (100) | 1.4 | 1.2 | 1.5 | (0.5) |
| (200) | 0.5 | 2.2 | 1.8 | (1.3) |
| (300) | (4.3) | 3.0 | (0.6) | (2.6) |

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The net interest income sensitivity results at December 31, 2025 was modestly liability sensitive as compared to the prior year. The change in sensitivity from prior year was impacted by an increase in fixed rate loans, an increase in short-term time deposits and overnight borrowings and non-maturity deposit growth with higher betas, partially offset by an increase in floating rate loans and securities.

Overall, the measure of EVE at risk slightly increased in all rate scenarios from December 31, 2024 to December 31, 2025. This increase was the result of an increase in fixed rate loans, short-term time deposits and overnight borrowings and higher beta non-maturity deposits, offset by an increase in floating rate loans and securities.

Certain shortcomings are inherent in the methodology used in the EVE and net interest income IRR measurements. The model requires the making of certain assumptions, which may tend to oversimplify the manner in which actual yields and costs respond to changes in market interest rates. First, the model assumes that the composition of the Company's interest sensitive assets and liabilities existing at the beginning of a period remains constant over the period being measured. Second, the model assumes that a particular change in interest rates is reflected uniformly across the yield curve regardless of the duration to maturity or repricing of specific assets and liabilities. Third, the model does not take into account the Company's business or strategic plans or any steps it may take to respond to changes in rates. Fourth, prepayment, rate sensitivity, and average life assumptions can have a significant impact on the IRR model results. Lastly, the model utilizes data derived from historical performance. Accordingly, although the above measurements provide an indication of the Company's IRR exposure at a particular point in time, such measurements are not intended to provide a precise forecast of the effect of changes in market interest rates.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 8.** | **Financial Statements and Supplementary Data** |

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**Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm**

To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of OceanFirst Financial Corp.

**Opinion on the Financial Statements**

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition of OceanFirst Financial Corp. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders' equity, and cash flows, for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2025, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2025, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025, based on criteria established in *Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013)* issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 27, 2026, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

**Basis for Opinion**

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

**Critical Audit Matters**

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

***Allowance for Loan Credit Losses - Refer to Notes 1 and 5 to the financial statements***

*Critical Audit Matter Description*

The allowance for loan credit losses ("ACL") is management's estimate of credit losses currently expected over the life of the loan portfolio, or the amount of amortized cost basis not expected to be collected, at the balance sheet date.

The Company's methodology to measure the ACL incorporates both quantitative and qualitative information to assess lifetime expected credit losses at the portfolio segment level. The quantitative component includes the calculation of loss rates using an open pool method. Under this method, the Company calculates a loss rate based on historical loan level loss experience for portfolio segments with similar risk characteristics. The historical loss rate is adjusted for select macroeconomic variables that consider both historical trends as well as forecasted trends for a single economic scenario. The adjusted loss rate is calculated for an eight-quarter forecast period then reverts to the historical loss rate on a straight-line basis over four quarters. The

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Company considers qualitative adjustments to expected credit loss estimates for information not already captured in the loss estimation process. Qualitative factor adjustments may increase or decrease management's estimate of expected credit losses.

Adjustments will not be made for information that has already been considered and included in the quantitative allowance. Qualitative loss factors are based on management's judgment of company, market, industry or business specific data, changes in loan composition, performance trends, regulatory changes, uncertainty of macroeconomic forecasts, and other asset specific risk characteristics.

We identified the ACL as a critical audit matter because of the complexity of the Company's model and the significant assumptions used by management. Auditing the ACL required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent of effort, including the need to involve credit specialists when performing audit procedures to evaluate the reasonableness of management's model and assumptions.

*How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit*

Our audit procedures related to qualitative adjustments within the ACL included the following, among others:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We tested the design and operating effectiveness of management's controls covering the key data, assumptions and judgments impacting the ACL.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We evaluated the appropriateness of the Company's accounting policies and methodologies, involved in determining the ACL.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We involved credit specialists to assist us in evaluating the Company's CECL model, including the reasonableness of the models and the selection of and calibration to economic factors.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We assessed the reasonableness of the Company's qualitative methodology, tested key calculations utilized within the qualitative estimate and agreed underlying data within the calculation to source documents.

***Goodwill - Refer to Note 1 to the financial statements***

*Critical Audit Matter Description*

The Company performs an annual goodwill impairment test over the Company's single reporting unit, as of August 31st or whenever certain triggering events occur or if changes in circumstances indicate potential impairment. An impairment charge is recognized when and to the extent the Company's carrying amount is determined to exceed its fair value. The results of the quantitative assessment indicated that the fair value of the Company's reporting unit exceeded its carrying amount as of the measurement date, which resulted in no impairment. The Company did not identify any triggering events between the annual assessment date and December 31, 2025.

The Company estimated the fair value of its single reporting unit using the market capitalization method, which is a form of a market approach. Under the market capitalization method, the Company estimated the fair value of the Company by utilizing observable market data to calculate the aggregate market value of the Company based on the total number of outstanding shares of common and preferred stock and the market prices of the shares as of the assessment date as well as consideration of initiatives unknown by the market and the evaluation of an implied control premium. The implied control premium was supported using a discounted cash flow method and evaluating the present value of market participant cost savings and synergies.

Auditing the estimated fair value of the Company involves a high degree of subjectivity, including the need to involve our fair value specialists, as it relates to evaluating whether management's judgments in determining whether the implied control premium was reasonable.

*How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit*

Our audit procedures related to the judgements made by management included the following, among others:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We evaluated the reasonableness of the Company's valuation methodology.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We tested the design and operating effectiveness of controls over goodwill, including financial forecasts, unknown conditions by the market as of the assessment date, and selection of control premium, including the estimate of market participant cost savings.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We evaluated the reasonableness of the Company's financial forecasts by comparing to (1) historical results, (2) internal communications to management and the Board of Directors, and (3) forecasted information included in industry growth rate statistics.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We evaluated the reasonableness of management's estimate of market participant cost savings by (1) comparing to cost savings announced in recent bank acquisitions and (2) assessing the Company's existing cost structure for potential cost savings and comparing that to management's estimate.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• With the assistance of our fair value specialists, we evaluated the significant valuation assumptions including, among others, the control premium used by the Company, which included testing the underlying source information and the mathematical accuracy of the calculations by developing a range of independent estimates and comparing to those selected by management.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Philadelphia, PA

February 27, 2026

We have served as the Company's auditor since 2022.

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**Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm**

To the stockholders and the Board of Directors of OceanFirst Financial Corp.

**Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting** 

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of OceanFirst Financial Corp. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2025, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2025, of the Company and our report dated February 27, 2026, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.

**Basis for Opinion**

The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

**Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting**

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Philadelphia, PA

February 27, 2026

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**OceanFirst Financial Corp.**

**CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION**

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** |
| **Assets** | | |
| Cash and due from banks | $135130 | $123615 |
| Debt securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (encumbered $897,491 at December 31, 2025 and $470,844 at December 31, 2024) | 1231827 | 827500 |
| Debt securities held-to-maturity, net of allowance for securities credit losses of $811 at December 31, 2025 and $967 at December 31, 2024 (estimated fair value of $825,790 at December 31, 2025 and $952,917 at December 31, 2024) (encumbered $543,425 at December 31, 2025 and $599,200 at December 31, 2024) | 881568 | 1045875 |
| Equity investments (encumbered $4,975 at December 31, 2025 and $0 at December 31, 2024) | 91882 | 84104 |
| Restricted equity investments, at cost | 129329 | 108634 |
| Loans receivable, net of allowance for loan credit losses of $83,726 at December 31, 2025 and $73,607 at December 31, 2024 | 10970666 | 10055429 |
| Loans held-for-sale | 5768 | 21211 |
| Interest and dividends receivable | 49010 | 45914 |
| Other real estate owned | 10266 | 1811 |
| Premises and equipment, net | 112743 | 115256 |
| Bank owned life insurance | 270301 | 270208 |
| Goodwill | 517481 | 523308 |
| Intangibles | 9046 | 12680 |
| Other assets | 149300 | 185702 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total assets | $14564317 | $13421247 |
| **Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity** |  |  |
| Deposits | $10964405 | $10066342 |
| FHLB advances | 1397179 | 1072611 |
| Securities sold under agreements to repurchase with customers | 54434 | 60567 |
| Other borrowings | 255233 | 197546 |
| Advances by borrowers for taxes and insurance | 21245 | 23031 |
| Other liabilities | 209271 | 298393 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total liabilities | 12901767 | 11718490 |
| Stockholders' equity: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, $1,000 liquidation preference, 5,000,000<br>shares authorized, 0 and 57,370 shares issued at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. |  | 1 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Common stock, $0.01 par value, 150,000,000 shares authorized, 62,942,427 and 62,673,192 shares issued at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively; and 57,390,569 and 58,554,871 shares outstanding at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively | 625 | 613 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional paid-in capital | 1118331 | 1168321 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Retained earnings | 662616 | 641727 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (2159) | (15853) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: Unallocated common stock held by ESOP | (1301) | (2542) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Treasury stock, 5,551,858 and 4,118,321 shares at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively | (115562) | (90617) |
| OceanFirst Financial Corp. stockholders' equity | 1662550 | 1701650 |
| Non-controlling interest |  | 1107 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total stockholders' equity | 1662550 | 1702757 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total liabilities and stockholders' equity | $14564317 | $13421247 |

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See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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**OceanFirst Financial Corp.**

**CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME**

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| **Interest income:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loans | $556894 | $545243 | $521865 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Debt securities | 72057 | 77749 | 59273 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Equity investments and other | 13503 | 19181 | 26836 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total interest income | 642454 | 642173 | 607974 |
| **Interest expense:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deposits | 216180 | 242133 | 172018 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Borrowed funds | 66051 | 66005 | 66225 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total interest expense | 282231 | 308138 | 238243 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net interest income | 360223 | 334035 | 369731 |
| Provision for credit losses | 16171 | 7689 | 17678 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net interest income after provision for credit losses | 344052 | 326346 | 352053 |
| **Other income (loss):** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bankcard services revenue | 6534 | 6197 | 5912 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Trust and asset management revenue | 1514 | 1745 | 2529 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fees and service charges | 17865 | 21791 | 21254 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net gain on sales of loans | 3686 | 2358 | 428 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net gain (loss) on equity investments | 916 | 4225 | (3732) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net loss from other real estate operations | (285) | (20) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income from bank owned life insurance | 7753 | 7905 | 5280 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial loan swap income | 3649 | 879 | 741 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | 3069 | 5107 | 1212 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total other income | 44701 | 50187 | 33624 |
| **Operating expenses:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Compensation and employee benefits | 159353 | 138341 | 135802 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Occupancy | 22874 | 20811 | 21188 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Equipment | 3597 | 4250 | 4650 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marketing | 5653 | 5165 | 4238 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Federal deposit insurance and regulatory assessments | 11599 | 10955 | 11157 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Data processing | 27723 | 24280 | 24835 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Check card processing | 4582 | 4412 | 4640 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Professional fees | 15090 | 9483 | 18297 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amortization of intangibles | 3634 | 3333 | 3984 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Branch consolidation expense, net |  |  | 70 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Merger related expenses | 4253 | 1779 | 22 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Restructuring charges | 11526 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other operating expense | 26353 | 23068 | 20029 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating expenses | 296237 | 245877 | 248912 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income before provision for income taxes | 92516 | 130656 | 136765 |
| Provision for income taxes | 21489 | 30266 | 32700 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net income | 71027 | 100390 | 104065 |
| Net income attributable to non-controlling interest | 49 | 325 | 36 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net income attributable to OceanFirst Financial Corp. | 70978 | 100065 | 104029 |
| Dividends on preferred shares | 2008 | 4016 | 4016 |
| Loss on redemption of preferred stock | 1842 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net income available to common stockholders | $67128 | $96049 | $100013 |
| Basic earnings per share | $1.17 | $1.65 | $1.70 |
| Diluted earnings per share | $1.17 | $1.65 | $1.70 |
| Average basic shares outstanding | 57419 | 58296 | 58948 |
| Average diluted shares outstanding | 57425 | 58297 | 58957 |

---

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

------

**OceanFirst Financial Corp.**

**CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME**

(in thousands)

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Net income | $71027 | $100390 | $104065 |
| Other comprehensive income: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unrealized gain on debt securities (net of tax expense of $4,235, $1,561 and $4,560 in 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively) | 13293 | 4698 | 14312 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accretion of unrealized loss on debt securities reclassified to held-to-maturity (net of tax expense of $200, $169 and $213 in 2025, 2024, and 2023, respectively) | 288 | 244 | 290 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unrealized loss on cash flow derivative hedges (net of tax benefit of $34, $304 and $257 in 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively) | (108) | (956) | (808) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Reclassification adjustment for loss included in net income (net of tax expense of $70, $326 and $423 in 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively) | 221 | 1023 | 1326 |
| Total other comprehensive income, net of tax | 13694 | 5009 | 15120 |
| Total comprehensive income | 84721 | 105399 | 119185 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interest | 49 | 325 | 36 |
| Total comprehensive income attributable to OceanFirst Financial Corp. | 84672 | 105074 | 119149 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: dividends on preferred shares | 2008 | 4016 | 4016 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: loss on redemption of preferred stock | 1842 |  |  |
| Total comprehensive income available to common stockholders | $80822 | $101058 | $115133 |

---

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

------

**OceanFirst Financial Corp.**

**CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY**

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

**For the Years Ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023** 

---

| | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Preferred<br>Stock** | **Common<br>Stock** | **Additional<br>Paid-In<br>Capital** | **Retained<br>Earnings** | **Accumulated<br>Other<br>Comprehensive<br>(Loss) Gain** | **Employee<br>Stock<br>Ownership<br>Plan** | **Treasury<br>Stock** | **Non-Controlling Interest** | **Total** |
| Balance at December 31, 2022 | $1 | $612 | $1154821 | $540507 | $(35982) | $(6191) | $(69106) | $802 | $1585464 |
| Net income |  |  |  | 104029 |  |  |  | 36 | 104065 |
| Other comprehensive income, net<br> of tax |  |  |  |  | 15120 |  |  |  | 15120 |
| Stock compensation |  |  | 5854 |  |  |  |  |  | 5854 |
| Allocation of ESOP stock |  |  | (341) |  |  | 2411 |  |  | 2070 |
| Cash dividend – $0.80 per share |  |  |  | (47258) |  |  |  |  | (47258) |
| Exercise of stock options |  | 1 | 1421 | (720) |  |  |  |  | 702 |
| Preferred stock dividend |  |  |  | (4016) |  |  |  |  | (4016) |
| Distribution to non-controlling interest |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | (55) | (55) |
| Balance at December 31, 2023 | 1 | 613 | 1161755 | 592542 | (20862) | (3780) | (69106) | 782 | 1661945 |
| Net income |  |  |  | 100065 |  |  |  | 325 | 100390 |
| Other comprehensive income, net<br> of tax |  |  |  |  | 5009 |  |  |  | 5009 |
| Stock compensation |  |  | 6084 |  |  |  |  |  | 6084 |
| Allocation of ESOP stock |  |  | (124) |  |  | 1238 |  |  | 1114 |
| Cash dividend – $0.80 per share |  |  |  | (46864) |  |  |  |  | (46864) |
| Exercise of stock options |  |  | 571 |  |  |  |  |  | 571 |
| Repurchase 1,383,238 shares of <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;common stock |  |  | 35 |  |  |  | (21511) |  | (21476) |
| Preferred stock dividend |  |  |  | (4016) |  |  |  |  | (4016) |
| Balance at December 31, 2024 | 1 | 613 | 1168321 | 641727 | (15853) | (2542) | (90617) | 1107 | 1702757 |
| Net income |  |  |  | 70978 |  |  |  | 49 | 71027 |
| Other comprehensive income, net&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;of tax |  |  |  |  | 13694 |  |  |  | 13694 |
| Stock compensation |  | 12 | 4857 |  |  |  |  |  | 4869 |
| Allocation of ESOP stock |  |  | (74) |  |  | 1241 |  |  | 1167 |
| Cash dividend – $0.80 per share |  |  |  | (46239) |  |  |  |  | (46239) |
| Exercise of stock options |  |  | 717 |  |  |  |  |  | 717 |
| Repurchase 1,433,537 shares of <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;common stock |  |  | 37 |  |  |  | (24945) |  | (24908) |
| Preferred stock dividend |  |  |  | (2008) |  |  |  |  | (2008) |
| Redemption of preferred stock | (1) |  | (55527) | (1842) |  |  |  |  | (57370) |
| Deconsolidation of Trident |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | (841) | (841) |
| Distribution to non-controlling interest |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | (315) | (315) |
| Balance at December 31, 2025 | $— | $625 | $1118331 | $662616 | $(2159) | $(1301) | $(115562) | $— | $1662550 |

---

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

------

**OceanFirst Financial Corp.** 

**CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS**

(dollars in thousands)

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
|  | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Cash flows from operating activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net income | $71027 | $100390 | $104065 |
| Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment | 10300 | 10903 | 12327 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allocation of ESOP stock | 1167 | 1114 | 2070 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stock compensation | 4869 | 6084 | 5854 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net excess tax expense on stock compensation | 195 | 365 | 243 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amortization of intangibles | 3634 | 3333 | 3984 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net accretion of purchase accounting adjustments | (1455) | (2865) | (5848) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amortization of servicing asset | 480 | 308 | 90 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net (discount) premium amortization in excess of discount accretion on securities | (3539) | 870 | 3133 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net amortization of deferred costs on borrowings | 338 | 626 | 598 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net amortization of deferred fees/costs and premiums/discounts on loans | (9429) | (3055) | (1094) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Provision for credit losses | 16171 | 7689 | 17678 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net write-down of fixed assets held-for-sale to net realizable value |  |  | 459 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net loss (gain) on sale of fixed assets | 2 | (131) | (26) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net (gain) loss on equity investments | (916) | (4225) | 3732 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net gain on sales of loans | (3686) | (2358) | (428) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net loss on sale of available-for-sale securities | 34 | 106 | 697 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from sales of residential loans held for sale | 504329 | 270171 | 58495 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Residential loans originated for sale | (485200) | (283858) | (62543) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Write down of other real estate owned | 198 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Increase in value of bank owned life insurance | (7246) | (6566) | (5280) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net (gain) loss on sale of assets held for sale |  | (855) | 233 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(Increase) decrease in interest and dividends receivable | (3096) | 5960 | (7170) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred tax provision (benefit) | 3009 | (337) | 3151 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net loss on disposal of controlling interest in Trident | 4338 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Decrease (increase) in other assets | 29319 | (3364) | 34504 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Decrease in other liabilities | (47632) | (8062) | (44663) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total adjustments | 16184 | (8147) | 20196 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net cash provided by operating activities | 87211 | 92243 | 124261 |
| Cash flows from investing activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net (increase) decrease in loans receivable | (913989) | 199094 | (243545) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchases of loan pools | (26859) | (84464) | (35904) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Discounts received (premiums paid) on purchased loan pools | 2562 | 8397 | (1210) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from sale of loans | 8640 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchase of debt securities available-for-sale | (809714) | (256784) | (302909) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchase of debt securities held-to-maturity |  | (6971) | (65567) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchase of equity investments | (7647) | (3082) | (7661) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from maturities and calls of debt securities available-for-sale | 9914 | 19537 | 22376 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from maturities and calls of debt securities held-to-maturity | 52715 | 22217 | 19425 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from sales of debt securities available-for-sale | 141638 | 7121 | 1300 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from sales of equity investments | 365 | 22782 | 4822 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Principal repayments on debt securities available-for-sale | 269737 | 162329 | 926 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Principal repayments on debt securities held-to-maturity | 114613 | 100472 | 108037 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from bank owned life insurance | 7153 | 2856 | 385 |

---

------

**OceanFirst Financial Corp.**

**CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)**

(dollars in thousands)

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Cash flows from investing activities (continued): |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from the redemption of restricted equity investments | 336020 | 81199 | 128964 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchases of restricted equity investments | (356715) | (96067) | (113447) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from sales of other real estate owned | 912 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from sales of assets held-for-sale |  | 883 | 3719 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchases of premises and equipment | (7700) | (7567) | (7708) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from disposal of premises and equipment |  | 3380 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from disposal of controlling interest in Trident | 2750 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net cash consideration paid for acquisition |  | (68932) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities | (1175605) | 106400 | (487997) |
| Cash flows from financing activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net increase (decrease) in deposits | 857974 | (366502) | 760023 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(Decrease) increase in short-term borrowings | (6204) | (12667) | 3950 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net proceeds (repayment) from FHLB advances | 324568 | 223975 | (362530) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net proceeds from issuance of subordinated notes | 181882 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Repayments of other borrowings | (125000) |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(Decrease) increase in advances by borrowers for taxes and insurance | (1786) | 624 | 1002 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Exercise of stock options | 717 | 571 | 702 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Payment of employee taxes withheld from stock awards | (1402) | (2391) | (2350) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchase of treasury stock | (24908) | (21476) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dividends paid | (48247) | (50880) | (51274) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Redemption of preferred stock | (57370) |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Distributions to non-controlling interest | (315) |  | (55) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net cash provided by (used) in financing activities | 1099909 | (228746) | 349468 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net increase (decrease) in cash and due from banks and restricted cash | 11515 | (30103) | (14268) |
| Cash and due from banks and restricted cash at beginning of year | 123615 | 153718 | 167986 |
| Cash and due from banks and restricted cash at end of year | $135130 | $123615 | $153718 |
| **Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and due from banks at beginning of year | $123615 | $153718 | $167946 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Restricted cash at beginning of year |  |  | 40 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and due from banks and restricted cash at beginning of year | $123615 | $153718 | $167986 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and due from banks at end of year | $135130 | $123615 | $153718 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Restricted cash at end of year |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and due from banks and restricted cash at end of year | $135130 | $123615 | $153718 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash paid during the year for: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest | $279171 | $320264 | $225405 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income taxes | 20689 | 33786 | 29331 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-cash activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accretion of unrealized loss on securities reclassified to held-to-maturity | 487 | 413 | 503 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net loan charge-offs | 5445 | 1555 | 8382 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Transfer of premises and equipment to assets held-for-sale |  |  | 1302 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Transfer of securities from held-to-maturity to available-for-sale |  | 500 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Transfer of loans receivable to other real estate owned | 9565 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Transfer of loans receivable to loans held-for-sale | 8640 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Settlement of preexisting loan receivable from Spring Garden |  | 96979 |  |

---

------

**OceanFirst Financial Corp.**

**CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)**

(dollars in thousands)

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| **Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information (continued):** |  |  |  |
| Acquisition: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-cash assets acquired: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loans | $— | $140062 | $— |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Premises and equipment |  | 157 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other real estate owned |  | 1666 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other assets |  | 1122 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Goodwill and other intangible assets, net |  | 23662 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total non-cash assets acquired | $— | $166669 | $— |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Liabilities assumed: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other liabilities |  | 4033 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total lease and other liabilities | $— | $4033 | $— |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total liabilities assumed | $— | $4033 | $— |

---

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

------

**Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements**

**<u>Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies</u>**

**Principles of Consolidation**

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of: OceanFirst Financial Corp. (the "Company"); its wholly-owned subsidiaries, OceanFirst Bank N.A. (the "Bank") and OceanFirst Risk Management, Inc.; the Bank's direct and indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries, OceanFirst REIT Holdings, Inc., OceanFirst Management Corp., OceanFirst Realty Corp., Casaba Real Estate Holdings Corporation, Country Property Holdings, Inc., OFB Acquisition LLC; and Spring Garden (and its subsidiaries). All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

In 2025, the Company adjusted the presentation of loans secured by owner-occupied commercial real estate to commercial and industrial - real estate to reflect the variation in the management and underlying risk profile of such loans as compared with non-owner-occupied ("investor") commercial real estate loans. Similarly, the Company also adjusted the presentation of commercial and industrial loans that were not secured by real estate to commercial and industrial - non-real estate. Collectively, these two loan portfolios are referred to as "Commercial and industrial" loans. Prior year amounts have been conformed to this change in presentation.

**Business**

The Bank provides a range of regional community banking services to retail and commercial customers through a network of branches and offices throughout New Jersey and in the major metropolitan areas from Massachusetts through Virginia. The Bank is subject to competition from other financial institutions and certain technology companies. It is also subject to the regulations of certain regulatory agencies and undergoes periodic examinations by those regulatory authorities.

**Basis of Financial Statement Presentation**

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements, in conformity with these accounting principles, requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the amounts of assets and liabilities reported, disclosures about contingent assets and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term include the determination of the allowance for credit losses and goodwill. These estimates and assumptions are based on management's best estimates and judgment. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current and forecasted economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Such estimates and assumptions are adjusted when facts and circumstances dictate. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in those estimates resulting from continuing changes, including in the economic environment, will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods.

**Cash and Cash Equivalents**

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand, cash items in the process of collection, and interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions. For purposes of the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, the Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

**Securities**

Securities include debt securities HTM and debt securities AFS. Debt securities include U.S. government and agency obligations, state and municipal debt obligations, corporate debt securities, asset-backed securities, and MBS. MBS includes: agency residential and commercial MBS which are issued and guaranteed by one of the FHLMC, the FNMA, the GNMA, or the SBA; and non-agency commercial MBS.

Management determines the appropriate classification at the time of purchase. If management has the positive intent not to sell a security and the Company would not be required to sell such a security prior to maturity, the securities can be classified as HTM debt securities. Such securities are stated at amortized cost. Securities in the AFS category are securities which the Company may sell prior to maturity as part of its asset/liability management strategy. Such securities are carried at estimated fair value and unrealized gains and losses, net of related tax effect, are excluded from earnings, but are included as a separate

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component of stockholders' equity and as part of other comprehensive income. Gains or losses on the sale of such securities are included in other income using the specific identification method. Discounts and premiums on debt securities are accreted or amortized using the level-yield method over the estimated lives of the securities, including the effect of prepayments.

Upon the transfer of debt securities from AFS to HTM classification, unrealized gains or losses at the transfer date continue to be reflected in accumulated other comprehensive income and are amortized into interest income over the remaining life of the securities.

Securities also include equity investments. Equity investments with readily determinable fair value are reported at fair value, with changes in fair value reported in net income. Equity investments without readily determinable fair values are carried at cost less impairment, if any, plus or minus adjustments resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or similar investment of the same issuer (measurement alternative). Certain equity investments without readily determinable fair values are measured at NAV per share as a practical expedient.

*Credit Losses for Available-for-Sale Debt Securities*

For AFS debt securities where fair value is less than amortized cost, the security is considered impaired when amounts are deemed uncollectible or when the Company intends, or more likely than not will be required, to sell the AFS debt security before recovery of the amortized cost basis.

On a quarterly basis the Company evaluates the AFS debt securities for impairment. Securities that are in an unrealized loss position are reviewed to determine if a securities credit loss exists based on certain quantitative and qualitative factors. The primary factors considered in evaluating whether an impairment exists include: (a) the extent to which the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis, (b) the financial condition, credit rating and future prospects of the issuer, (c) whether the debtor is current on contractually obligated interest and principal payments, and (d) whether the Company intends to sell the security and whether it is more likely than not that the Company will not be required to sell the security.

If a determination is made that an AFS debt security is impaired, the Company will estimate the amount of the unrealized loss that is attributable to credit and all other non-credit related factors. The credit related component will be recognized as a securities provision for credit losses through an allowance for securities credit losses. The securities provision for credit losses will be limited to the difference between the security's amortized cost basis and fair value and any future changes may be reversed, limited to the amount previously expensed, in the period they occur. The non-credit related component will be recorded as an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax.

The evaluation of securities for impairment is a quantitative and qualitative process, which is subject to risks and uncertainties and is intended to determine whether declines in the estimated fair value of investments should be recognized in current period earnings. The risks and uncertainties include changes in general economic conditions, the issuer's financial condition and/or future prospects, the effects of changes in interest rates or credit spreads, and the expected recovery period.

**Loans Receivable**

Loans receivable, other than loans held-for-sale, are stated at unpaid principal balance, plus unamortized premiums less unearned discounts, net of deferred loan origination and commitment fees and costs, and the associated allowance for loan credit losses.

Loan origination and commitment fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred and the net fee or cost is recognized in interest income using the level-yield method over the contractual life of the specifically identified loans, adjusted for actual prepayments. For each loan class, a loan is considered past due when a payment has not been received in accordance with the contractual terms. Loans which are more than 90 days past due, and other loans in the process of foreclosure, are placed on non-accrual status. Interest income previously accrued on these loans, but not yet received, is reversed in the current period. Any interest subsequently collected is credited to income in the period of recovery only after the full principal balance has been brought current and has returned to accrual status. A loan is returned to accrual status when all amounts due have been received, payments remain current for a period of six months, and the remaining principal and interest are deemed collectible.

Loans are charged-off in the period the loans, or portion thereof, are deemed uncollectible. The Company will record a loan charge-off to reduce a loan to the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral, less cost to sell, if it is determined that it is probable that recovery will come primarily from the sale of the collateral.

**Loans Held for Sale and Mortgage Servicing Rights**

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Loans held for sale are carried at the lower of unpaid principal balance, net, or estimated fair value on an aggregate basis. Estimated fair value is generally determined based on bid quotations from secondary markets. Any reduction in loans held for sale are recorded through net gain on sales of loans. Gains or losses recognized on sales to the secondary market are also recorded in net gain on sale of loans.

For certain mortgage loan sales, the Company will retain the contractual right to service those loans for a fee, and as such a mortgage servicing rights asset is recorded with a corresponding gain on sale. Mortgage servicing rights represent the fair value assigned to the rights in the contracts that obligate the Company to service the loans sold in exchange for a servicing fee. The assets are subsequently accounted for under the amortization method and are amortized over the estimated economic life of the related mortgage in proportion to the estimated expected future net servicing revenue generated from servicing the loan and are periodically evaluated for impairment. Servicing income and the related amortization of servicing rights are recorded in fees and other charges within non-interest income on the Consolidated Statement of Income. Mortgage servicing assets are included within other assets on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition.

**ACL**

Under the CECL model, the allowance for credit losses on financial assets is a valuation allowance estimated at each balance sheet date in accordance with GAAP that is deducted from the financial assets' amortized cost basis to present the net amount expected to be collected on the financial assets. The CECL model also applies to certain off-balance sheet credit exposures.

The Company estimates the ACL on loans based on the underlying assets' amortized cost basis, which is the amount at which the financing receivable is originated or acquired, adjusted for applicable accretion or amortization of premium, discount, net deferred fees or costs, collection of cash, and charge-offs. In the event that collection of principal becomes uncertain, the Company has policies in place to write-off accrued interest receivable by reversing interest income in a timely manner. Therefore, the Company has made a policy election to exclude accrued interest from the amortized cost basis and therefore excludes it from the measurement of the ACL.

Expected credit losses are reflected in the ACL through a charge to provision for credit losses. The Company's estimate of the ACL reflects credit losses currently expected over the remaining contractual life of the assets. When the Company deems all or a portion of a financial asset to be uncollectible the appropriate amount is written off and the ACL is reduced by the same amount. The Company applies judgment to determine when a financial asset is deemed uncollectible. When available information confirms that specific financial assets, or portions thereof, are uncollectible, these amounts are charged off against the ACL. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the ACL when received.

The Company measures the ACL of financial assets on a collective portfolio segment basis when the financial assets share similar risk characteristics. The Company has identified the following portfolio segments of financial assets with similar risk characteristics for measuring expected credit losses: commercial real estate - investor (including commercial real estate - construction and land), commercial and industrial - real estate, commercial and industrial - non-real estate, residential real estate, consumer (including student loans) and HTM debt securities. The Company further segments the commercial loan portfolios by risk rating and the residential and consumer loan portfolios by delinquency. The HTM portfolio is segmented by rating category.

The Company's methodology to measure the ACL incorporates both quantitative and qualitative information to assess lifetime expected credit losses at the portfolio segment level. The quantitative component includes the calculation of loss rates using an open pool method. Under this method, the Company calculates a loss rate based on historical loan level loss experience for portfolio segments with similar risk characteristics. The historical loss rate is adjusted for select macroeconomic variables that consider both historical trends as well as forecasted trends for a single economic scenario. The adjusted loss rate is calculated for an eight quarter forecast period then reverts to the historical loss rate on a straight-line basis over four quarters. The Company differentiates its loss-rate method for HTM debt securities by looking to publicly available historical default and recovery statistics based on the attributes of issuer type, rating category and time to maturity. The Company measures expected credit losses of these financial assets by applying loss rates to the amortized cost basis of each asset taking into consideration amortization, prepayment and default assumptions.

The Company considers qualitative adjustments to expected credit loss estimates for information not already captured in the loss estimation process. Qualitative factor adjustments may increase or decrease management's estimate of expected credit losses. Adjustments will not be made for information that has already been considered and included in the quantitative allowance. Qualitative loss factors are based on management's judgment of company, market, industry or business specific data, changes in loan composition, performance trends, regulatory changes, uncertainty of macroeconomic forecasts, and other asset specific risk characteristics.

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*Collateral Dependent Financial Assets*

For collateral dependent financial assets where the Company has determined that foreclosure of the collateral is probable and where the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, the ACL is measured based on the difference between the fair value of the collateral and the amortized cost basis of the asset as of the measurement date. Fair value is generally calculated based on the value of the underlying collateral less an appraisal discount and the estimated cost to sell.

*Modification to Borrowers Experiencing Financial Difficulty*

The Company adopted ASU 2022-02 on January 1, 2023, which eliminated recognition and measurement for TDR by creditors. The Company considers a loan to be a modification to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty if (1) the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty; and (2) the Company, for economic or legal reasons related to a borrower's financial condition or difficulties, modifies the loan in the form of a reduction in interest rate, an extension in term, principal forgiveness, other than insignificant payment delay, or a combination thereof.

*Loan Commitments and Allowance for Loan Credit Losses on Off-Balance Sheet Credit Exposures*

Financial assets include off-balance sheet credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and commercial letters of credit, issued to meet customer financing needs. The Company's exposure to loan credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for off-balance sheet loan commitments is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded.

The Company records an allowance for loan credit losses on off-balance sheet credit exposures through a charge to loan provision for credit losses for off-balance sheet credit exposures. The ACL on off-balance sheet credit exposures is estimated by portfolio segment at each balance sheet date under the CECL model using the same methodologies as portfolio loans, taking into consideration management's assumption of the likelihood that funding will occur, and is included in other liabilities on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition.

*Acquired Loans*

Acquired loans are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition based on a discounted cash flow methodology that considers various factors including the type of loan and related collateral, classification status, fixed or variable interest rate, loan term and whether or not the loan was amortizing, and a discount rate reflecting the Company's assessment of risk inherent in the cash flow estimates. Certain acquired loans are grouped together according to similar risk characteristics and are aggregated when applying various valuation techniques. These cash flow evaluations are subjective as they require material estimates, all of which may be susceptible to significant change.

Loans acquired in a business combination that have experienced more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since origination are considered PCD loans. The Company evaluated acquired loans for deterioration in credit quality based on any of, but not limited to, the following: (1) non-accrual status; (2) modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty; (3) risk ratings of special mention, substandard or doubtful; (4) watchlist credits; and (5) delinquency status, including loans that were current on acquisition date, but had been previously delinquent. At the acquisition date, an estimate of expected credit losses was made for groups of PCD loans with similar risk characteristics and individual PCD loans without similar risk characteristics. This initial allowance for credit losses is allocated to individual PCD loans and added to the purchase price or acquisition date fair values to establish the initial amortized cost basis of the PCD loans. As the initial allowance for credit losses is added to the purchase price, there is no provision for credit losses recognized upon acquisition of a PCD loan. Any difference between the unpaid principal balance of PCD loans and the amortized cost basis is considered to relate to noncredit factors and results in a discount or premium. Discounts and premiums are recognized through interest income on a level-yield method over the life of the loans.

For acquired loans not deemed PCD at acquisition, the differences between the initial fair value and the unpaid principal balance are recognized as interest income on a level-yield basis over the lives of the related loans. At the acquisition date, an initial allowance for expected credit losses is estimated and recorded as a provision for credit losses.

The subsequent measurement of expected credit losses for all acquired loans is the same as the subsequent measurement of expected credit losses for originated loans.

**OREO**

Other real estate owned is carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value, less estimated costs to sell. When a property is acquired, the excess of the loan balance over estimated fair value is charged to the allowance for credit losses for loans. Operating results from other real estate owned, including rental income, operating expenses, gains and losses realized from the sales of other real estate owned, and subsequent write-downs are recorded as incurred.

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**Premises and Equipment**

Land is carried at cost and premises and equipment, including land improvements and leasehold improvements, are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization or, in the case of acquired premises, the estimated fair value on the acquisition date. Depreciation and amortization are computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets or leases. Generally, depreciable lives are as follows: computer software and equipment: 3 years; furniture, fixtures and other electronic equipment: 5 years; building improvements: 10 years; leasehold improvements: the shorter of 10 years or lease term; buildings: 30 years; ITM: 7 years; automobiles: 3 years; solar power system: 25 years; and land improvements: the shorter of 15 years or term of lease (if applicable). Depreciable assets are placed in service when they are in a condition for use and available for their designated function. The Company has not developed any internal use software. Repair and maintenance items are expensed and improvements are capitalized. Gains and losses on dispositions are reflected in other operating expense and other income.

**Leases**

The Company recognizes long-term lease agreements on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as a ROU asset and a corresponding lease liability. The ROU asset and lease liability are calculated as the present value of the minimum lease payments over the lease term, discounted for the rate implicit in the lease, provided the rate is readily determinable; otherwise the Company generally utilizes its incremental borrowing rate, at lease inception, over a similar term.

Lease agreements often include one or more options to renew the lease at the Company's discretion. If the exercise of a renewal option is considered to be reasonably certain, the Company includes the extended term in the calculation of the ROU asset and lease liability. For operating leases existing prior to January 1, 2019, the Company used the incremental borrowing rate for the remaining lease term as of January 1, 2019. For the finance lease, the Company utilized its incremental borrowing rate at lease inception.

**Income Taxes**

The Company utilizes the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Any interest and penalties on taxes payable are included as part of the provision for income taxes.

**BOLI**

Bank owned life insurance is accounted for using the cash surrender value method and is recorded at its realizable value. Part of the Company's BOLI is invested in a separate account insurance product, which is invested in a fixed income portfolio. The separate account includes stable value protection which maintains realizable value at book value with investment gains and losses amortized over future periods. Increases in cash surrender value are included in other non-interest income, while proceeds from death benefits are generally recorded as a reduction to the carrying value. When incurred, death benefits in excess of carrying value are recognized in other non-interest income.

**Intangible Assets**

Intangible assets resulting from acquisitions, under the acquisition method of accounting, consists of goodwill, customer relationship intangible, and core deposit intangibles. Customer relationship intangible asset represents the value associated with the business relationships which was acquired through the Spring Garden acquisition. The core deposit intangible asset represents the future economic benefit, including the present value of future tax benefits, of the potential cost saving from acquiring the core deposits as part of an acquisition compared to the cost of alternative funding sources. Both intangibles are recognized over is its estimated useful life and are included within amortization of intangibles within non-interest expense.

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Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of identifiable net assets acquired through purchase acquisitions. Goodwill with an indefinite useful life is evaluated for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate potential impairment between annual measurement dates. The Company prepares a qualitative assessment, and if necessary, a quantitative assessment, in determining whether goodwill may be impaired. The factors considered in the qualitative assessment include macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions and overall financial performance of the Company, among other factors. Under a quantitative assessment, the Company will estimate the fair value of the Company through a combination of income and market approach valuation methodologies. The Company completes its annual goodwill impairment test as of August 31 and evaluates triggering events during interim periods, as applicable.

The Company completed its annual goodwill impairment test as of August 31, 2025. For the annual test, the Company bypassed the qualitative assessment and proceeded directly to the quantitative impairment test based on the stock price of the Company on the measurement date and economic uncertainty. To perform the quantitative assessment, the Company engaged a third-party provider to assist management with the determination of the fair value of the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of equity using the market capitalization method of the market approach, consideration of initiatives unknown by the market and evaluation of any implied control premium.

The market capitalization method calculated the aggregate market value of the Company based on the total number of outstanding shares of common stock and the market prices of the shares as of the assessment date. The Company evaluated conditions that were unknown by the market as of the assessment date and how a market participant would evaluate an implied control premium for the Company. The implied control premium was supported using a discounted cash flow analysis that contemplated the present value of assumed market participant cost savings and synergies.

The DCF analysis was utilized to estimate the present value of future cash flows. A DCF analysis requires significant judgment to model financial forecasts, which included forward interest rates, fee generation and expense occurrence, industry and economic trends, and other relevant considerations. For periods beyond those forecasted, a terminal value was estimated based on an assumed long-term growth rate, which was derived using the Gordon Growth Model. The discount rate applied to the forecasted cash flows was calculated using a build-up approach, which starts with the risk-free interest rate, which was then calibrated for market and company specific risk premiums, including a beta, equity risk, size, and company-specific risk premiums to reflect risks and uncertainties in the financial market and in the Company's business projections.

The results of the quantitative assessment indicated that the fair value of the Company's reporting unit exceeded its carrying amount, which resulted in no impairment loss at August 31, 2025. The Company did not identify any triggering events between the annual assessment date and December 31, 2025.

**Segment Reporting**

The Company's operations are solely in the financial services industry and provides a range of regional community banking services to retail and commercial customers. The Company operates throughout New Jersey and in the major metropolitan areas from Massachusetts through Virginia.

Operating segments are defined as components of an entity for which separate financial information is available and is regularly reviewed by the CODM. The Company's CODM is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. The CODM makes operating decisions and manages the activities of the business on a consolidated basis. Therefore, management concluded the Company has a single operating segment, and therefore one reportable segment.

Further, the CODM allocates resources and assesses performance based on an ongoing review of the Company's consolidated financial results. Specifically, the CODM reviews net income, reported within the consolidated statements of income, along with information in consolidated statement of financial condition to decide whether to reinvest profits into the Company or other strategic investments. Refer to the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition and Consolidated Statements of Income for net income and all significant expenses regularly provided to and reviewed by the CODM.

**Earnings Per Share**

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding and potential common stock utilizing the treasury stock method. All share amounts exclude unallocated shares of stock held by the Company's ESOP and by incentive plans.

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**Stock-Based Compensation**

The Company recognizes compensation expense related to stock options and awards, including market-based performance awards, over the requisite service period, generally based on the instruments' grant-date fair value, reduced by actual and estimated forfeitures. Certain performance-based stock awards and the associated compensation expense fluctuates based on the estimated probability of achievement of the Company-defined performance goals. The Company also recognizes compensation expense on phantom stock units, which are liability-classified time-based awards, over the requisite service period based on the Company's grant date stock price and remeasured monthly.

**Derivative Instruments**

The Company accounts for derivative financial instruments under ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, which requires the Company to record all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. Accounting for changes in the fair value of a derivative depends on whether or not the derivative has been designated and qualifies for hedge accounting. For derivatives not designated as hedging instruments, changes in the fair value are recognized directly in earnings. For derivatives designated as hedging instruments, the accounting treatment is dependent upon the type of hedge. The Company has designated certain interest rate swap contracts as cash flow and fair value hedges.

Cash flow hedges are used to mitigate the variability in the cash flows of a specific pool of assets, or of forecasted transactions, caused by interest rate fluctuations. The changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges are initially reported in other comprehensive income. Amounts are subsequently reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings when the hedged transactions occur, specifically within the same line item as the hedged item.

Fair value hedges are used to mitigate the variability in the market value of certain AFS securities caused by interest rate fluctuations. The change in fair value of the derivative instrument is offset by the change in fair value of AFS securities due to changes in interest rates and is recognized in current earnings during the period in which the change in fair values occur, specifically within the same line item as the hedged item.

To qualify for hedge accounting, the Company assesses the effectiveness of the derivative in offsetting the risk associated with the exposure being hedged, at inception and on a quarterly basis thereafter. The Company uses quantitative methods, such as regression analyses, and qualitative comparisons of critical terms and the evaluation of any changes in those terms. If it is determined that a derivative is not highly effective at hedging the designated exposure, hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively.

**Impact of New Accounting Pronouncements**

<u>Accounting Pronouncements Adopted in 2025</u>

In August 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-05, "Business Combinations - Joint Venture Formations (Subtopic 805-60): Recognition and Initial Measurement". The amendments in this ASU require that a joint venture, upon formation, apply a new basis of accounting and initially measure assets and liabilities at fair value, with exceptions to fair value measurement that are consistent with the business combinations guidance. This update will be effective prospectively for all joint venture formations with a formation date on or after January 1, 2025. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In December 2023, FASB issued ASU 2023-09, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures". The amendments in this ASU require improved annual income tax disclosures surrounding rate reconciliation, income taxes paid, and other disclosures. This update will be effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In November 2025, FASB issued ASU 2025-08, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326)". The amendments in this ASU expand the population of acquired financial assets subject to the gross-up approach to include loans acquired without credit deterioration. This update will be effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026, and for interim periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted. The Company early adopted this standard as of December 31, 2025. The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

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<u>Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted</u>

In November 2024, FASB issued ASU 2024-03 "Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income - Expense Disaggregation Disclosures (Subtopic 220-40)". The amendments in this ASU require expanded disclosure and disaggregation of certain costs and expenses including, but not limited to, purchases of inventory, employee compensation, depreciation, depletion, and amortization. This update will be effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026, and for interim periods beginning after December 15, 2027. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect this standard to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In November 2024, FASB issued ASU 2024-04, "Debt - Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic 470-20)". The amendments in this ASU clarify the requirements for determining whether certain settlements of convertible debt instruments should be accounted for as an induced conversion. This update will be effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2025, and for interim periods beginning after December 15, 2026. Early adoption is permitted. Currently, this ASU does not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In May 2025, FASB issued ASU 2025-03, "Business Combinations (Topic 805) and Consolidation (Topic 810)". The amendments in this ASU require an entity involved in an acquisition transaction effected primarily by exchanging equity interests when the legal acquired is a variable interest entity, to determine which entity is the accounting acquirer. The amendment requires that an entity apply the new guidance prospectively to any acquisition transaction that occurs after the initial application date. This update will be effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026, and for interim periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect this standard to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In September 2025, FASB issued ASU 2025-06, "Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40)". The amendments in this ASU remove all references to prescriptive and sequential software development stages and provides disclosure requirements for related capitalized costs. This update will be effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2027, and for interim periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an annual reporting period. Currently this ASU does not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In September 2025, FASB issued ASU 2025-07, "Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) and Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)". The amendments in this ASU, related to Topic 815, exclude from derivative accounting any non-exchange traded contracts that are based on operations or activities specific to contracted parties, while providing specific exceptions to this exclusion. The amendments in this ASU, related to Topic 606, clarify that an entity should apply Topic 606 guidance to contracts with share-based noncash consideration from a customer in a revenue contract. This update will be effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026, and for interim periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted. Topic 606 is not applicable to the Company. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the standard for Topic 815 on the consolidated financial statements.

In November 2025, FASB issued ASU 2025-09, "Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Hedge Accounting Improvements". The amendments in this ASU include new guidance on assessing similar risks for cash flow hedges, hedging interest payments on "choose-your-rate" debt, accounting for cash flow hedges of nonfinancial forecasted transactions, using net written options as hedging instruments, and the accounting for foreign currency-denominated debt in "dual hedges". This update will be effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026, and for interim periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted. Currently this ASU does not have an impact on the consolidated financial statements.

**<u>Note 2. Regulatory Matters</u>**

The Company is subject to regulation by the Board of Governors of the FRB and the Bank is primarily subject to regulation and supervision by the OCC and the CFPB, as well as the FDIC as deposit insurer. The Company and the Bank are required by applicable regulations to maintain minimum levels of regulatory capital. Under the regulations in effect at December 31, 2025, the Company and the Bank were required to maintain a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to total average assets of 4.0%; a minimum ratio of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of 7.0%; a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of 8.5%; and a minimum ratio of total (core and supplementary) capital to risk-weighted assets of 10.5%. These ratios include the impact of the required 2.50% capital conservation buffer.

Under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, federal regulators are required to take certain supervisory actions (and may take additional discretionary actions) with respect to an undercapitalized institution. Such actions could have a direct material effect on an institution's financial statements. The regulations establish a framework for the classification of banking

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institutions into five categories: well-capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized and critically undercapitalized. Generally, an institution is considered well-capitalized if it has a Tier 1 capital ratio of 5.0%; a common equity Tier 1 risk-based ratio of at least 6.5%; a Tier 1 risk-based ratio of at least 8.0%; and a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10.0%. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company and the Bank exceeded all regulatory capital requirements currently applicable.

The following is a summary of the Company's and Bank's regulatory capital amounts and ratios as of December 31, 2025 and 2024 compared to the regulatory minimum capital adequacy requirements and the regulatory requirements for classification as a well-capitalized institution then in effect (dollars in thousands):

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| | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Actual** | **Actual** | **For capital adequacy<br>purposes** | **For capital adequacy<br>purposes** | | **To be well-capitalized<br>under Prompt<br>Corrective Action** | **To be well-capitalized<br>under Prompt<br>Corrective Action** |
| **As of December 31, 2025** | **Amount** | **Ratio** | **Amount** | **Ratio** | | **Amount** | **Ratio** |
| **Company:** | | | | | | | |
| Tier 1 capital (to average assets) | $1193942 | 8.65% | $551966 | 4.00% |  | N/A | N/A |
| Common equity Tier 1 (to risk-weighted assets) | 1119172 | 10.72 | 730982 | 7.00 | <sup>(1)</sup> | N/A | N/A |
| Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) | 1193942 | 11.43 | 887621 | 8.50 | <sup>(1)</sup> | N/A | N/A |
| Total capital (to risk-weighted assets) | 1467329 | 14.05 | 1096473 | 10.50 | <sup>(1)</sup> | N/A | N/A |
| **Bank:** |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Tier 1 capital (to average assets) | $1194054 | 8.71% | $548260 | 4.00% |  | $685326 | 5.00% |
| Common equity Tier 1 (to risk-weighted assets) | 1194054 | 11.54 | 724359 | 7.00 | <sup>(1)</sup> | 672619 | 6.50 |
| Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) | 1194054 | 11.54 | 879578 | 8.50 | <sup>(1)</sup> | 827839 | 8.00 |
| Total capital (to risk-weighted assets) | 1282441 | 12.39 | 1086538 | 10.50 | <sup>(1)</sup> | 1034798 | 10.00 |
| **As of December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| **Company:** |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Tier 1 capital (to average assets) | $1235832 | 9.50% | $520239 | 4.00% |  | N/A | N/A |
| Common equity Tier 1 (to risk-weighted assets) | 1105180 | 11.17 | 692897 | 7.00 | <sup>(1)</sup> | N/A | N/A |
| Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) | 1235832 | 12.49 | 841375 | 8.50 | <sup>(1)</sup> | N/A | N/A |
| Total capital (to risk-weighted assets) | 1437278 | 14.52 | 1039345 | 10.50 | <sup>(1)</sup> | N/A | N/A |
| **Bank:** |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Tier 1 capital (to average assets) | $1161564 | 8.99% | $516798 | 4.00% |  | $645998 | 5.00% |
| Common equity Tier 1 (to risk-weighted assets) | 1161564 | 11.83 | 687383 | 7.00 | <sup>(1)</sup> | 638284 | 6.50 |
| Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) | 1161564 | 11.83 | 834679 | 8.50 | <sup>(1)</sup> | 785580 | 8.00 |
| Total capital (to risk-weighted assets) | 1238011 | 12.61 | 1031074 | 10.50 | <sup>(1)</sup> | 981975 | 10.00 |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Includes the Capital Conservation Buffer of 2.50%.

The Company and the Bank satisfied the criteria to be "well-capitalized" under the Prompt Corrective Action regulations.

Capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments are limited if the capital conservation buffer of 2.50% is not maintained. Applicable regulations also impose limitations upon capital distributions by the Company, such as dividends and payments to repurchase or otherwise acquire shares. The Company may not declare or pay cash dividends on or repurchase any of its shares of common stock if the effect thereof would cause stockholders' equity to be reduced below applicable regulatory capital minimum requirements or if such declaration and payment would otherwise violate regulatory requirements.

------

**<u>Note 3. Business Combinations and Dispositions</u>**

**Pending Merger with Flushing**

On December 29, 2025, the Company, Flushing, and Apollo Merger Sub Corp. entered into the Merger Agreement. On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, (a) Merger Sub will merge with and into Flushing, with Flushing continuing as the surviving entity, (b) immediately following the First Merger, Flushing will merge with and into the Company, with the Company continuing as the surviving entity, and (c) on the day immediately following the Second Merger, Flushing Bank will merge with and into the Bank, with the Bank continuing as the surviving bank. The Merger Agreement was unanimously approved by the board of directors of the Company and the board of directors of Flushing.

Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, at the Effective Time, each share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Flushing issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time, subject to certain exceptions, will be converted into the right to receive 0.85 of a share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company.

Concurrently with its entry into the Merger Agreement, the Company entered into the Investment Agreement with Warburg. On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Investment Agreement, concurrently with the closing of the Mergers, Warburg will invest an aggregate of $225 million in exchange for the sale and issuance by the Company of approximately (a) 9.5 million shares of the Company's common stock at a purchase price of $19.76 per share and (b) 1,900 shares of a new class of NVCE Stock at a purchase price of $19,760 per share, which represents the economic equivalent of approximately 1.9 million shares of the Company's common stock. In addition, Warburg will receive a warrant to purchase approximately 11,400 shares of NVCE Stock with an exercise price of $19,760 per share of NVCE Stock, which represents the economic equivalent of approximately 11.4 million shares of the Company's common stock. The Warrant carries a term of seven years and can be exercised voluntarily following the third anniversary of the investment closing. The Warrant can also be voluntarily exercised prior to the third anniversary of the investment closing, (i) in the event the market price of the Company's common stock reaches or exceeds $30 per share at the closing of any trading day or (ii) in transactions involving a change of control. The Warrant is subject to mandatory exercise, at any time, in the event the market price of the Company's common stock reaches or exceeds $30 per share for 20 or more trading days during any 30 consecutive trading day period.

Subject to the receipt of requisite regulatory and stockholder approvals and satisfaction or waiver of other customary closing conditions, the parties anticipate that the Mergers, the Bank Merger and the Investment will close in the second quarter of 2026.

**Merger Related Expenses**

The Company incurred merger related expenses of $4.3 million, $1.8 million, and $22,000 for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023, respectively. The following table summarizes the merger related expenses for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| | (in thousands) | (in thousands) | (in thousands) |
| Professional fees | $4250 | $1506 | $12 |
| Data processing fees |  |  | 10 |
| Other/miscellaneous fees | 3 | 273 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Merger related expenses | $4253 | $1779 | $22 |

---

Merger related expenses for 2025 include expenses related to the announced merger with Flushing, which is pending regulatory approvals as of December 31, 2025. Merger related expenses for 2024 primarily include expenses related to the acquisition of Spring Garden, which was completed on October 1, 2024.

**Disposition of Trident** 

On October 1, 2025, the Company disposed of its 60% controlling interest in Trident. In accordance with ASC 810, Trident was deconsolidated from the Company's consolidated financial statements resulting in a loss on deconsolidation of $4.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2025, which included the derecognition of $5.8 million of goodwill related to Trident. The loss on deconsolidation is included within restructuring charges in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

------

**Spring Garden Acquisition**

On October 1, 2024, the Company completed its acquisition of Spring Garden. The acquisition is complimentary to the Company's existing products and will expand the Company's specialty finance offerings. Total consideration paid was $162.7 million and goodwill from the transaction amounted to $17.2 million.

The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. Under this method of accounting, the purchase price has been allocated to the respective assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values. The excess of consideration paid over the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired has been recorded as goodwill.

The following table summarizes the fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed by the Company at the date of the acquisition for Spring Garden, net of total consideration paid (in thousands):

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| | **At October 1, 2024** |
| | **Fair Value** |
| Total consideration paid <sup>(1)</sup> | $162704 |
| Assets acquired: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and cash equivalents | $68 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loans | 140062 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other real estate owned | 1666 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Premises and equipment | 157 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other assets | 1122 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Customer relationship intangible | 6500 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total assets acquired | 149575 |
| Liabilities assumed: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other liabilities | 4033 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total liabilities assumed | 4033 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net assets acquired | $145542 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Goodwill recorded | $17162 |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Cash consideration paid was $68 million. The difference between the cash and total consideration paid includes adjustments for the settlement of pre-existing relationships.

The Company finalized its review of the acquired assets and liabilities and will not be recording any further adjustments to the carrying value.

*Fair Value Measurement of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed*

The methods used to determine the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Spring Garden acquisition were as follows. Refer to Note 15 Fair Value Measurements, for a discussion of the fair value hierarchy.

*Loans*

The acquired loan portfolio was valued utilizing Level 3 inputs and included the use of present value techniques employing cash flow estimates and incorporated assumptions that marketplace participants would use in estimating fair values. In instances where reliable market information was not available, the Company used its own assumptions in an effort to determine reasonable fair value. Specifically, the Company utilized three separate fair value analyses which a market participant would employ in estimating the total fair value adjustment. The three separate fair valuation methodologies used were: (1) interest rate loan fair value analysis; (2) general credit fair value adjustment; and (3) specific credit fair value adjustment.

To prepare the interest rate fair value analysis, market rates for similar loans were obtained from various external data sources and reviewed by the Company's management for reasonableness. The weighted average of these rates was used as the fair value interest rate a market participant would utilize. A present value approach was utilized to calculate the interest rate fair value adjustment.

------

The general credit fair value adjustment was calculated using expected lifetime losses and estimated fair value adjustments for qualitative factors. The expected lifetime losses were calculated using an average of historical losses of the loan portfolio amongst peer groups were deemed appropriate. The adjustment related to qualitative factors, if any, was impacted by general economic conditions.

To calculate the specific credit fair value adjustment, the Company identified loans that experienced more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since origination. Loans meeting this criteria were reviewed by comparing the contractual cash flows to expected collectible cash flows. The aggregate expected cash flows less the acquisition date fair value resulted in an accretable yield amount which will be recognized over the life of the loans.

*Customer Relationship Intangible*

The customer relationship intangible asset represents the value associated with the commercial construction business that was acquired, which was valued using the multi-period excess earnings method under the income approach. The customer relationship intangible totaled $6.5 million, and is being amortized over its estimated useful life of approximately 7 years.

**Intangibles**

The estimated future amortization expense for core deposit intangible and customer relationship intangible over the next five years and thereafter are as follows (in thousands):

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **For the Year Ending December 31,** | **Amortization Expense** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2026 | $3269 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2027 | 2616 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2028 | 1600 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2029 | 918 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2030 | 431 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thereafter | 212 |
| Total | $9046 |

---

------

**<u>Note 4. Securities</u>**

The amortized cost, estimated fair value, and allowance for securities credit losses of debt securities available-for-sale and held-to-maturity at December 31, 2025 and 2024 are as follows (in thousands):

---

| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Amortized<br>Cost** | **Gross<br>Unrealized<br>Gains** | **Gross<br>Unrealized<br>Losses** | **Estimated<br>Fair<br>Value** | **Allowance for Securities Credit Losses** |
| **At December 31, 2025** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Debt securities available-for-sale: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;U.S. government and agency obligations | $54607 | $— | $(2666) | $51941 | $— |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State, municipal and sovereign debt obligations | 75776 | 7359 |  | 83135 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Corporate debt securities | 27947 | 575 | (298) | 28224 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asset-backed securities | 114595 | 60 | (161) | 114494 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;MBS: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency residential | 857079 | 1773 | (3830) | 855022 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency commercial | 108070 | 2 | (9061) | 99011 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total mortgage-backed securities | 965149 | 1775 | (12891) | 954033 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total excluding fair value hedge basis adjustment | 1238074 | 9769 | (16016) | 1231827 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fair value hedge basis adjustment <sup>(1)</sup> | (4038) |  | 4038 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities available-for-sale | $1234036 | $9769 | $(11978) | $1231827 | $— |
| Debt securities held-to-maturity: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State and municipal debt obligations | $165267 | $434 | $(8518) | $157183 | $(22) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Corporate debt securities | 48986 | 251 | (692) | 48545 | (772) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mortgage-backed securities: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency residential | 589078 | 1788 | (44521) | 546345 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency commercial | 77517 | 8 | (5256) | 72269 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-agency commercial | 1531 |  | (83) | 1448 | (17) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total mortgage-backed securities | 668126 | 1796 | (49860) | 620062 | (17) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities held-to-maturity | $882379 | $2481 | $(59070) | $825790 | $(811) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities | $2116415 | $12250 | $(71048) | $2057617 | $(811) |
| **At December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Debt securities available-for-sale: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;U.S. government and agency obligations | $62396 | $11 | $(5022) | $57385 | $— |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Corporate debt securities | 14042 | 43 | (762) | 13323 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asset-backed securities | 197116 | 235 | (84) | 197267 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mortgage-backed securities: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency residential | 465108 | 1256 | (801) | 465563 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency commercial | 108610 |  | (14648) | 93962 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total mortgage-backed securities | 573718 | 1256 | (15449) | 559525 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities available-for-sale | $847272 | $1545 | $(21317) | $827500 | $— |
| Debt securities held-to-maturity: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State and municipal debt obligations | $201369 | $199 | $(13665) | $187903 | $(31) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Corporate debt securities | 65350 | 775 | (1416) | 64709 | (734) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mortgage-backed securities: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency residential | 680052 | 44 | (73110) | 606986 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency commercial | 79925 | 1 | (5878) | 74048 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-agency commercial | 20146 |  | (875) | 19271 | (202) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total mortgage-backed securities | 780123 | 45 | (79863) | 700305 | (202) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities held-to-maturity | $1046842 | $1019 | $(94944) | $952917 | $(967) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities | $1894114 | $2564 | $(116261) | $1780417 | $(967) |

---

(1)Refer to Note 16, Derivatives and Hedging Activities for additional information.

------

The following table presents the activity in the allowance for credit losses for debt securities held-to-maturity for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 (in thousands):

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Years Ended December 31,** | **For the Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| Allowance for securities credit losses |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beginning balance | $(967) | $(1133) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Benefit for credit losses | 156 | 166 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total ending allowance balance | $(811) | $(967) |

---

The Company monitors the credit quality of debt securities held-to-maturity on a quarterly basis through the use of internal credit analysis supplemented by external credit ratings. Credit ratings of BBB- or Baa3 or higher are considered investment grade. Where multiple ratings are available, the Company considers the lowest rating when determining the allowance for securities credit losses. Under this approach, the amortized cost of debt securities held-to-maturity at December 31, 2025, aggregated by credit quality indicator, are as follows (in thousands):

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Investment Grade** | **Non-Investment Grade/Non-rated** | **Total** |
| **At December 31, 2025** | | | |
| State and municipal debt obligations | $165267 | $— | $165267 |
| Corporate debt securities | 34811 | 14175 | 48986 |
| Non-agency commercial MBS | 1531 |  | 1531 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities held-to-maturity | $201609 | $14175 | $215784 |

---

There were $34,000, $156,000 and $697,000 of realized losses on sale of debt securities available-for-sale for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 respectively. These realized losses on debt securities are presented within Other, which is included within Total other income on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of debt securities at December 31, 2025 by contractual maturity are shown below (in thousands):

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **At December 31, 2025** | **Amortized**<br>**Cost** <sup>(1)</sup> | **Estimated<br>Fair Value** |
| Less than one year | $35121 | $34525 |
| Due after one year through five years | 154779 | 150459 |
| Due after five years through ten years | 98248 | 97036 |
| Due after ten years | 199030 | 201502 |
|  | $487178 | $483522 |

---

(1)The amortized cost of available-for-sale securities excludes the portfolio layer fair value hedge basis adjustments of $4.0 million at December 31, 2025.

Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities in instances where issuers have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. At December 31, 2025, corporate debt securities, state and municipal obligations, and asset-backed securities with an amortized cost, excluding the fair value hedge basis adjustments, of $72.8 million, $116.4 million, and $114.6 million, respectively, and an estimated fair value of $72.8 million, $123.6 million, and $114.5 million, respectively, were callable prior to the maturity date. Mortgage-backed securities are excluded from the above table since their effective lives are expected to be shorter than the contractual maturity date due to principal prepayments.

------

The estimated fair value and unrealized losses for debt securities available-for-sale and held-to-maturity at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, segregated by the duration of the unrealized losses, are as follows (in thousands):

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Less than 12 Months** | **Less than 12 Months** | **12 Months or Longer** | **12 Months or Longer** | **Total** | **Total** |
| | **Estimated<br>Fair Value** | **Unrealized**<br>**Losses** <sup>(1)</sup> | **Estimated<br>Fair Value** | **Unrealized**<br>**Losses** <sup>(1)</sup> | **Estimated<br>Fair Value** | **Unrealized<br>Losses** |
| **At December 31, 2025** | | | | | | |
| Debt securities AFS: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;U.S. government and agency obligations | $— | $— | $51941 | $(2666) | $51941 | $(2666) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Corporate debt securities | 4712 | (97) | 3798 | (201) | 8510 | (298) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asset-backed securities | 68805 | (161) |  |  | 68805 | (161) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;MBS: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency residential | 498047 | (3771) | 21547 | (59) | 519594 | (3830) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency commercial |  |  | 98518 | (9061) | 98518 | (9061) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total MBS | 498047 | (3771) | 120065 | (9120) | 618112 | (12891) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities AFS | 571564 | (4029) | 175804 | (11987) | 747368 | (16016) |
| Debt securities HTM: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State and municipal debt obligations | 245 |  | 138624 | (8518) | 138869 | (8518) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Corporate debt securities | 4458 | (241) | 14295 | (451) | 18753 | (692) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;MBS: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency residential | 23548 | (72) | 425748 | (44449) | 449296 | (44521) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency commercial |  |  | 71509 | (5256) | 71509 | (5256) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-agency commercial | 459 | (1) | 989 | (82) | 1448 | (83) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total MBS | 24007 | (73) | 498246 | (49787) | 522253 | (49860) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities HTM | 28710 | (314) | 651165 | (58756) | 679875 | (59070) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities | $600274 | $(4343) | $826969 | $(70743) | $1427243 | $(75086) |
| **At December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Debt securities AFS: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;U.S. government and agency obligations | $3221 | $— | $49538 | $(5022) | $52759 | $(5022) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Corporate debt securities | 4793 | (55) | 6029 | (707) | 10822 | (762) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asset-backed securities | 31588 | (21) | 59148 | (63) | 90736 | (84) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;MBS: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency residential | 202961 | (801) |  |  | 202961 | (801) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency commercial |  |  | 93962 | (14648) | 93962 | (14648) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total MBS | 202961 | (801) | 93962 | (14648) | 296923 | (15449) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities AFS | 242563 | (877) | 208677 | (20440) | 451240 | (21317) |
| Debt securities HTM: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State and municipal debt obligations | 7098 | (176) | 169434 | (13489) | 176532 | (13665) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Corporate debt securities | 1247 | (219) | 25518 | (1197) | 26765 | (1416) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;MBS: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency residential | 114557 | (1647) | 479847 | (71463) | 594404 | (73110) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agency commercial | 3894 | (20) | 69912 | (5858) | 73806 | (5878) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-agency commercial |  |  | 19271 | (875) | 19271 | (875) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total MBS | 118451 | (1667) | 569030 | (78196) | 687481 | (79863) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities HTM | 126796 | (2062) | 763982 | (92882) | 890778 | (94944) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt securities | $369359 | $(2939) | $972659 | $(113322) | $1342018 | $(116261) |

---

(1)The unrealized losses of available-for-sale securities excludes the portfolio layer fair value hedge basis adjustments of $4.0 million at December 31, 2025.

The Company concluded that no debt securities were impaired at December 31, 2025 based on consideration of several factors. The Company noted that each issuer made all contractually due payments when required. There were no defaults on principal or interest payments, and no interest payments were deferred. Based on management's analysis of each individual security, the issuers appear to have the ability to meet debt service requirements over the life of the security. Furthermore, the net unrealized

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losses were primarily due to changes in the general credit and interest rate environment and not credit quality. Additionally, the Company has not utilized securities sales as a source of liquidity and the Company's liquidity plans include adequate sources of liquidity outside securities sales.

**Equity Investments**

At December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company held equity investments of $91.9 million and $84.1 million, respectively. The equity investments are primarily comprised of select financial services institutions' preferred stocks, investments in other financial institutions and funds.

The realized and unrealized gains or losses on equity securities for the year ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 are shown in the table below (in thousands):

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Net gain (loss) on equity investments | $916 | $4225 | $(3732) |
| Less: Net gain (loss) recognized on equity investments sold | 352 | (49) | (5462) |
| Unrealized gains recognized on equity investments still held | $564 | $4274 | $1730 |

---

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**<u>Note 5. Loans Receivable, Net</u>**

Loans receivable, net at December 31, 2025 and 2024 consisted of the following (in thousands):

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31,** | **December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| Commercial: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial real estate – investor | $5420989 | $5287683 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial – real estate | 986431 | 902219 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial – non-real estate | 1227556 | 647945 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial | 2213987 | 1550164 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial | 7634976 | 6837847 |
| Consumer: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Residential real estate | 3194264 | 3049763 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other consumer | 202763 | 230462 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total consumer | 3397027 | 3280225 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total loans receivable | 11032003 | 10118072 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred origination costs, net of fees | 22389 | 10964 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for loan credit losses | (83726) | (73607) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total loans receivable, net | $10970666 | $10055429 |

---

The Company categorizes all loans into risk categories based on relevant information about the ability of borrowers to service their debt, such as: current financial information, historical payment experience, credit documentation, and current economic trends, among other factors. The Company evaluates risk ratings on an ongoing basis. The Company uses the following definitions for risk ratings:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Pass</u>: Loans classified as Pass are well protected by the paying capacity and net worth of the borrower.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Special Mention</u>: Loans classified as Special Mention have a potential weakness that deserves management's close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loan or of the Company's credit position at some future date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Substandard</u>: Loans classified as Substandard are inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the borrower or of the collateral pledged, if any. These loans have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the collection or the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Company will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Doubtful</u>: Loans classified as Doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified as Substandard, with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions and values, highly questionable and improbable.

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The following tables summarize total loans by year of origination, internally assigned credit grades, and risk characteristics (in thousands):

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| | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** | **2022** | **2021** | **2020 and prior** | **Revolving lines of credit** | **Total** |
| **December 31, 2025** |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial real estate - investor |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pass | $647529 | $65950 | $166397 | $1161291 | $1299618 | $1427844 | $579022 | $5347651 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special Mention | 66 |  |  | 2932 |  | 8735 | 725 | 12458 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Substandard |  | 85 |  | 20788 | 298 | 33969 | 5740 | 60880 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial real estate - investor | 647595 | 66035 | 166397 | 1185011 | 1299916 | 1470548 | 585487 | 5420989 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial - real estate |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pass | 255690 | 74284 | 58970 | 90142 | 59476 | 403738 | 31844 | 974144 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special Mention |  | 250 |  |  |  | 731 |  | 981 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Substandard |  |  |  |  |  | 11306 |  | 11306 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial - real estate | 255690 | 74534 | 58970 | 90142 | 59476 | 415775 | 31844 | 986431 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial - non-real estate |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pass | 325180 | 181538 | 40761 | 30417 | 8314 | 35057 | 589300 | 1210567 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special Mention | 39 | 224 |  |  |  |  | 690 | 953 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Substandard |  | 528 | 553 | 776 | 649 | 1774 | 11756 | 16036 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial - non-real estate | 325219 | 182290 | 41314 | 31193 | 8963 | 36831 | 601746 | 1227556 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial | 580909 | 256824 | 100284 | 121335 | 68439 | 452606 | 633590 | 2213987 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Residential real estate <sup>(1)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pass | 471828 | 225885 | 209979 | 501308 | 743610 | 1034301 |  | 3186911 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special Mention | 218 | 121 | 345 | 265 | 1432 | 1298 |  | 3679 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Substandard | 207 | 1590 | 396 | 93 | 445 | 943 |  | 3674 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total residential real estate | 472253 | 227596 | 210720 | 501666 | 745487 | 1036542 |  | 3194264 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other consumer <sup>(1)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pass | 27971 | 24292 | 23141 | 13697 | 15086 | 93425 | 3242 | 200854 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special Mention |  |  |  |  | 8 | 82 |  | 90 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Substandard |  | 190 | 181 | 67 |  | 1381 |  | 1819 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total other consumer | 27971 | 24482 | 23322 | 13764 | 15094 | 94888 | 3242 | 202763 |
| Total loans | $1728728 | $574937 | $500723 | $1821776 | $2128936 | $3054584 | $1222319 | $11032003 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)For residential real estate and other consumer loans, the Company evaluates credit quality based on the aging status of the loan and by payment activity.

------

---

| | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **2024** | **2023** | **2022** | **2021** | **2020** | **2019 and prior** | **Revolving lines of credit** | **Total** |
| **December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial real estate - investor |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pass | $75225 | $140863 | $1142790 | $1290047 | $510906 | $1264536 | $750607 | $5174974 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special Mention | 15 |  | 21285 |  |  | 18225 | 4477 | 44002 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Substandard | 95 | 8 | 3784 |  | 6111 | 44636 | 14073 | 68707 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial real estate - investor | 75335 | 140871 | 1167859 | 1290047 | 517017 | 1327397 | 769157 | 5287683 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial - real estate |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pass | 82104 | 62799 | 140578 | 90720 | 40746 | 442685 | 31776 | 891408 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special Mention |  |  |  |  |  | 2918 |  | 2918 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Substandard |  |  |  |  | 256 | 7503 | 134 | 7893 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial - real estate | 82104 | 62799 | 140578 | 90720 | 41002 | 453106 | 31910 | 902219 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial - non-real estate |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pass | 81867 | 30084 | 35469 | 14276 | 3873 | 180695 | 278217 | 624481 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special Mention |  | 4735 |  |  | 235 | 16 | 96 | 5082 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Substandard |  | 4326 | 1019 | 749 |  | 256 | 12032 | 18382 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial - non-real estate | 81867 | 39145 | 36488 | 15025 | 4108 | 180967 | 290345 | 647945 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial | 163971 | 101944 | 177066 | 105745 | 45110 | 634073 | 322255 | 1550164 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Residential real estate <sup>(1)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pass | 277009 | 270225 | 547093 | 796790 | 366649 | 783204 |  | 3040970 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special Mention |  | 92 | 224 | 449 |  | 1476 |  | 2241 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Substandard | 215 | 415 | 1583 | 445 |  | 3894 |  | 6552 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total residential real estate | 277224 | 270732 | 548900 | 797684 | 366649 | 788574 |  | 3049763 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other consumer <sup>(1)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pass | 27316 | 27596 | 17029 | 16511 | 10694 | 107045 | 21991 | 228182 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special Mention |  |  |  | 62 |  | 219 |  | 281 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Substandard |  | 97 | 18 | 343 |  | 1541 |  | 1999 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total other consumer | 27316 | 27693 | 17047 | 16916 | 10694 | 108805 | 21991 | 230462 |
| Total loans | $543846 | $541240 | $1910872 | $2210392 | $939470 | $2858849 | $1113403 | $10118072 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)For residential real estate and other consumer loans, the Company evaluates credit quality based on the aging status of the loan and by payment activity.

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An analysis of the allowance for credit losses on loans for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 was as follows (in thousands):

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | | **Commercial and Industrial** | **Commercial and Industrial** | | | |
| |<br>**Commercial<br>Real Estate –<br>Investor** | **Commercial and Industrial - Real Estate** | **Commercial<br>and <br>Industrial - Non-Real Estate** |<br>**Residential<br>Real Estate** |<br>**Other Consumer** |<br>**Total** |
| **For the Year Ended December 31, 2025** | | | | | | |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for credit losses on loans |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Balance at beginning of year | $30780 | $3817 | $10471 | $27587 | $952 | $73607 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Provision (benefit) for credit losses | 2517 | 917 | 13410 | (1547) | 267 | 15564 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charge-offs | (3534) |  | (835) | (1451) | (433) | (6253) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Recoveries | 181 | 19 | 330 | 91 | 187 | 808 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Balance at end of year | $29944 | $4753 | $23376 | $24680 | $973 | $83726 |
| **For the Year Ended December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for credit losses on loans |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Balance at beginning of year | $27899 | $4354 | $6867 | $27029 | $988 | $67137 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Initial allowance on acquired loans from Spring Garden | 2547 |  |  |  |  | 2547 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Provision (benefit) for credit losses | 1774 | (569) | 3586 | 428 | 259 | 5478 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charge-offs | (1659) |  |  | (76) | (485) | (2220) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Recoveries | 219 | 32 | 18 | 206 | 190 | 665 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Balance at end of year | $30780 | $3817 | $10471 | $27587 | $952 | $73607 |

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The following tables summarize gross charge-offs by vintage (in thousands):

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| | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** | **2022** | **2021** | **2020 and prior** | **Total** |
| **For the Year Ended December 31, 2025** |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Commercial real estate – investor | $(102) | $(310) | $(1938) | $(649) | $(24) | $(511) | $(3534) |
| Commercial and industrial - non-real estate |  | (815) |  | (20) |  |  | (835) |
| Residential real estate | (37) | (218) | (106) | (319) | (345) | (426) | (1451) |
| Consumer |  |  |  | (48) |  | (385) | (433) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total charge-offs | $(139) | $(1343) | $(2044) | $(1036) | $(369) | $(1322) | $(6253) |

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **2023** | **2022** | **2021** | **2019 and prior** | **Total** |
| **For the Year Ended December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Commercial real estate – investor <sup>(1)</sup> | $— | $(13) | $(46) | $(1600) | $(1659) |
| Residential real estate | (33) | (41) |  | (2) | (76) |
| Consumer |  |  |  | (485) | (485) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total charge-offs | $(33) | $(54) | $(46) | $(2087) | $(2220) |

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(1) Gross charge-offs of $1.7 million primarily related to a single commercial relationship which had partial charge-offs during the year ended December 31, 2024. This was resolved via sale of collateral during 2024.

A loan is considered collateral dependent when the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of the collateral and, therefore, is classified as non-accruing. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company had collateral dependent loans with an amortized cost balance as follows: commercial real estate - investor of $13.6 million and $11.8 million, respectively, commercial and industrial - real estate of $4.8 million and $4.8 million, respectively, and commercial and industrial - non-real estate of $603,000 and $32,000, respectively. In addition, the Company had collateral dependent residential and consumer loans with an amortized cost balance of $5.5 million and $8.6 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

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The following table presents the recorded investment in non-accrual loans, by loan portfolio segment as of December 31, 2025 and 2024 (in thousands):

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31,** | **December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| Commercial real estate – investor | $13636 | $17000 |
| Commercial and industrial: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial – real estate | 4813 | 4787 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial – non-real estate | 640 | 32 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial | 5453 | 4819 |
| Residential real estate <sup>(1)</sup> | 6200 | 10644 |
| Other consumer<sup>(1)</sup> | 2502 | 3064 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total non-performing loans | $27791 | $35527 |

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(1) The year ended December 31, 2025 included the sale of non-performing residential and consumer loans of $9.8 million.

At December 31, 2025 and 2024, non-accrual loans were included in the allowance for credit loss calculation and the Company did not recognize or accrue interest income on these loans. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, there were no loans greater than 90 days past due that were accruing interest.

The following table presents the aging of the recorded investment in past due loans as of December 31, 2025 and 2024 by loan portfolio segment (in thousands):

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **30-59<br>Days<br>Past Due** | **60-89<br>Days<br>Past Due** | **90 Days or Greater<br>Past Due** | **Total<br>Past Due** | **Loans Not<br>Past Due** | **Total** |
| **December 31, 2025** | | | | | | |
| Commercial real estate – investor | $25516 | $974 | $12333 | $38823 | $5382166 | $5420989 |
| Commercial and industrial: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial - real estate | 587 |  | 4281 | 4868 | 981563 | 986431 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial - non-real estate | 1220 | 235 | 578 | 2033 | 1225523 | 1227556 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial | 1807 | 235 | 4859 | 6901 | 2207086 | 2213987 |
| Residential real estate | 14517 | 3672 | 3673 | 21862 | 3172402 | 3194264 |
| Other consumer | 1027 | 60 | 1819 | 2906 | 199857 | 202763 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total loans | $42867 | $4941 | $22684 | $70492 | $10961511 | $11032003 |
| **December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Commercial real estate – investor | $4624 | $8880 | $10877 | $24381 | $5263302 | $5287683 |
| Commercial and industrial: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial - real estate | 941 |  | 1392 | 2333 | 899886 | 902219 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial and industrial - non-real estate | 3 |  | 16 | 19 | 647926 | 647945 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total commercial and industrial | 944 |  | 1408 | 2352 | 1547812 | 1550164 |
| Residential real estate | 18518 | 2242 | 6551 | 27311 | 3022452 | 3049763 |
| Other consumer | 1060 | 282 | 1999 | 3341 | 227121 | 230462 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total loans | $25146 | $11404 | $20835 | $57385 | $10060687 | $10118072 |

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*Loan Modifications to Borrowers Experiencing Financial Difficulty*

In accordance with ASU 2022-02, the Company has modified and may modify in the future certain loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. These modifications may include a reduction in interest rate, an extension in term, principal forgiveness and/or other than insignificant payment delay. Upon the Company's determination that a modified loan (or portion of a loan) has subsequently been deemed uncollectible, the loan (or a portion of the loan) is charged off. Therefore, the amortized cost basis of the loan is reduced by the uncollectible amount, and the allowance for credit losses is subsequently adjusted by an amount equal to the total loss rate as applied to the reduced amortized cost basis. As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, loans with modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty totaled $24.9 million and $30.9 million, respectively. There were no outstanding commitments to lend additional funds to such borrowers with loan modifications as of December 31, 2025 or December 31, 2024.

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The following table presents loan modifications made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty during the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 (in thousands):

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Term Extension** | **Combination of Term Extension and Other than Insignificant Payment Delay** | **Combination of Term Extension and Interest Rate Reduction** | **Total** | **% of Total by Loan Portfolio Segment** |
| **For the Year Ended December 31, 2025** | | | | | |
| Commercial real estate – investor | $— | $4423 | $956 | $5379 | 0.10% |
| Residential real estate | 246 |  |  | 246 | 0.01 |
|  | $246 | $4423 | $956 | $5625 | 0.05% |

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| | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Term Extension** | **Interest Rate Reduction** | **Combination of Term Extension and Interest Rate Reduction** | **Other Than Insignificant Payment Delay** | **Combination of Term Extension, Interest Rate Reduction and Other Than Insignificant Payment Delay** | **Total** | **% of Total by Loan Portfolio Segment** |
| **For the Year Ended December 31, 2024** | | | | | | | |
| Commercial real estate – investor | $— | $4858 | $7000 | $5685 | $1604 | $19147 | 0.36% |
| Commercial and industrial – real estate |  |  |  | 2822 |  | 2822 | 0.31 |
| Residential real estate | 128 |  |  |  |  | 128 |  |
| Other consumer |  |  | 146 |  |  | 146 | 0.06 |
|  | $128 | $4858 | $7146 | $8507 | $1604 | $22243 | 0.22% |

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The modifications during the periods presented had an insignificant financial effect on the Company.

The Company closely monitors the performance of the loans that are modified to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty to understand the effectiveness of its modification efforts. The following table provides the performance of loans modified to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty during the twelve months ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 (in thousands):

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Current** | **30 - 59 Days Past Due** | **90 Days or Greater Past Due** | | **Total** |
| **December 31, 2025** | | | | | |
| Commercial real estate – investor | $4423 | $956 | $— |  | $5379 |
| Residential real estate | 246 |  |  |  | 246 |
|  | $4669 | $956 | $— |  | $5625 |
| **December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Commercial real estate – investor | $19147 | $— | $— |  | $19147 |
| Commercial and industrial – real estate | 2822 |  |  |  | 2822 |
| Residential real estate |  |  | 128 | <sup>(1)</sup> | 128 |
| Other consumer |  |  | 146 | <sup>(1)</sup> | 146 |
|  | $21969 | $— | $274 |  | $22243 |

---

(1) Represents one residential loan and one other consumer loan that defaulted during the year ended December 31, 2024, which had been modified within the last 12 months.

------

**<u>Note 6. Interest and Dividends Receivable</u>**

Interest and dividends receivable at December 31, 2025 and 2024 are summarized as follows (in thousands):

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31,** | **December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| Loans receivable | $40938 | $37836 |
| Debt securities | 7254 | 7349 |
| Equity investments and other <sup>(1)</sup> | 818 | 729 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total interest and dividends receivable | $49010 | $45914 |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Dividend income is included within equity investments and other on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

**<u>Note 7. Premises and Equipment, Net</u>**

Premises and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization expense at December 31, 2025 and 2024 are summarized as follows (in thousands):

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31,** | **December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| Land | $16875 | $16605 |
| Buildings and improvements | 136305 | 133312 |
| Leasehold improvements | 7105 | 7074 |
| Furniture and equipment | 38413 | 37079 |
| Capitalized software | 9753 | 8722 |
| Finance lease | 1392 | 1272 |
| Other | 4131 | 3376 |
| Total | 213974 | 207440 |
| Accumulated depreciation and amortization | (101231) | (92184) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total premises and equipment, net | $112743 | $115256 |

---

Depreciation and amortization expense amounted to $10.3 million, $10.9 million and $11.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Depreciation and amortization expense is presented within occupancy, equipment, and data processing expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

**<u>Note 8. Deposits</u>**

The major types of deposits at December 31, 2025 and 2024 were as follows (dollars in thousands):

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31,** | **December 31,** | **December 31,** | **December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** |
| | **Amount** | **Weighted<br>Average<br>Cost** | **Amount** | **Weighted<br>Average<br>Cost** |
| Non-interest-bearing | $1741958 | —% | $1617182 | —% |
| Interest-bearing checking | 4354485 | 2.05 | 4000553 | 2.11 |
| Money market deposit | 1412917 | 2.43 | 1301197 | 3.00 |
| Savings | 986195 | 0.55 | 1066438 | 0.72 |
| Time deposits | 2468850 | 3.64 | 2080972 | 4.18 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total deposits | $10964405 | 2.00% | $10066342 | 2.17% |

---

Accrued interest payable related to deposits was $3.5 million and $1.2 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. Time deposits included $474.6 million and $457.2 million in deposits of $250,000 or more at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. Time deposits also include brokered deposits of $609.8 million and $74.7 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

------

Time deposits at December 31, 2025 mature as follows (in thousands):

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **For the Year Ending December 31,** | **Time Deposit Maturities** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2026 | $2430525 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2027 | 22320 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2028 | 7705 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2029 | 4947 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2030 | 3042 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thereafter | 311 |
| Total | $2468850 |

---

Interest expense on deposits for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 were as follows (in thousands):

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Interest-bearing checking | $88866 | $86320 | $52898 |
| Money market deposit | 41077 | 41948 | 18656 |
| Savings | 6631 | 11422 | 9227 |
| Time deposits | 79606 | 102443 | 91237 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total interest expense on deposits | $216180 | $242133 | $172018 |

---

**<u>Note 9. Borrowed Funds</u>**

Borrowed funds are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31,** | **December 31,** | **December 31,** | **December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** |
| | **Amount** | **Weighted<br>Average<br>Rate** | **Amount** | **Weighted<br>Average<br>Rate** |
| FHLB advances | $1397179 | 4.19% | $1072611 | 4.62% |
| Securities sold under agreements to repurchase with customers | 54434 | 2.62 | 60567 | 2.29 |
| Other borrowings | 255233 | 6.45 | 197546 | 5.96 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total borrowed funds | $1706846 | 4.48% | $1330724 | 4.71% |

---

At December 31, 2025, there were $929.2 million of FHLB term advances as compared to $1.07 billion at December 31, 2024. There were $468.0 million and no overnight borrowings from the FHLB at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

FHLB advances and repurchase agreements had contractual maturities at December 31, 2025 as follows (in thousands):

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **FHLB Advances** | **Repurchase Agreements** |
| **For the Year Ended December 31,** | | |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2026 | $1195311 | $54434 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2027 | 200501 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2028 | 1367 |  |
| Total | $1397179 | $54434 |

---

------

The other borrowings at December 31, 2025 included the following (in thousands):

---

| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Type of Debt** | **Stated Value** | **Carrying Value** | **Contractual Interest Rate** | | **Maturity** |
| Subordinated debt | $185000 | $181979 | 6.375% | <sup>(1)</sup> | November 15, 2035 |
| Trust preferred | 10000 | 8557 | 3 month SOFR plus 2.51% |  | December 15, 2034 |
| Trust preferred | 30000 | 24684 | 3 month SOFR plus 1.61% |  | March 15, 2036 |
| Trust preferred | 5000 | 5000 | 3 month SOFR plus 1.91% |  | August 1, 2036 |
| Trust preferred | 7500 | 7500 | 3 month SOFR plus 1.92% |  | November 1, 2036 |
| Trust preferred | 10000 | 8239 | 3 month SOFR plus 1.79% |  | June 30, 2037 |
| Trust preferred | 10000 | 10000 | 3 month SOFR plus 2.01% |  | September 1, 2037 |
| Trust preferred | 10000 | 8131 | 3 month SOFR plus 1.65% |  | October 1, 2037 |
| Finance lease | 1143 | 1143 | 5.625% |  | July 31, 2029 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $268643 | $255233 |  |  |  |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Adjusts to a floating rate of 3.075% over 3 month SOFR on November 15, 2030.

During the year ended December 31, 2025, the Company redeemed in full $125.0 million of its subordinated notes due May 15, 2030, and issued $185.0 million of subordinated notes at 6.375% fixed-to-floating rate due November 15, 2035.

All of the trust preferred debt is currently callable.

Interest expense on borrowings for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023 was as follows (in thousands):

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| FHLB advances | $44997 | $35686 | $46000 |
| Securities sold under agreements to repurchase with customers | 1711 | 1893 | 931 |
| Other borrowings | 19343 | 28426 | 19294 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total interest expense on borrowings | $66051 | $66005 | $66225 |

---

*Pledged assets*

The following table presents the assets pledged to secure borrowings, borrowing capacity, repurchase agreements, letters of credit, and for other purposes required by law at carrying value (in thousands):

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Loans** | **Debt and Equity Securities** | **Total** |
| **December 31, 2025** | | | |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FHLB and FRB | $7923979 | $1367469 | $9291448 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Repurchase agreements |  | 78422 | 78422 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total pledged assets | $7923979 | $1445891 | $9369870 |
| **December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FHLB and FRB | $7427247 | $984515 | $8411762 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Repurchase agreements |  | 85529 | 85529 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total pledged assets | $7427247 | $1070044 | $8497291 |

---

The securities that collateralize the repurchase agreements are delivered to the lender, with whom each transaction is executed, to a third-party custodian, or held at the Company. The lender agrees to resell to the Company substantially the same securities at the maturity of the repurchase agreements.

------

**<u>Note 10. Income Taxes</u>**

The provision for income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 consisted of the following (in thousands):

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Current |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Federal | $13599 | $23315 | $20894 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State | 4881 | 7288 | 8655 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total current | 18480 | 30603 | 29549 |
| Deferred |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Federal | 2748 | 214 | 4250 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State | 261 | (551) | (1099) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total deferred | 3009 | (337) | 3151 |
| Total provision for income taxes | $21489 | $30266 | $32700 |

---

Included in other comprehensive income was the income tax impact attributable to the unrealized gain/loss on debt securities, accretion of unrealized losses on debt securities reclassified to held-to-maturity, unrealized loss on derivative hedges and the related reclassification adjustments included in net income. These items resulted in a tax expense of $4.5 million, $1.8 million and $4.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Income taxes that would have been computed at the statutory federal rate are reconciled to the total provision for income taxes and effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 is as follows (dollars in thousands):

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** | **2023** | **2023** |
| | **Amount** | **Percent** | **Amount** | **Percent** | **Amount** | **Percent** |
| Income before provision for income taxes | $92516 |  | $130656 |  | $136765 |  |
| Federal income tax expense, at statutory rate | 19428 | 21.0% | 27438 | 21.0% | 28721 | 21.0% |
| Increase (decrease) in federal income tax expense resulting from: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State income taxes, net of federal benefit <sup>(1)</sup> | 3941 | 4.3 | 5518 | 4.2 | 5979 | 4.3 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nontaxable or nondeductible items: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Earnings on BOLI | (1628) | (1.8) | (1660) | (1.3) | (1109) | (0.8) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tax exempt interest | (761) | (0.8) | (547) | (0.4) | (606) | (0.4) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Merger related expenses | 620 | 0.7 |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stock compensation | 68 | 0.1 | 391 | 0.3 | (298) | (0.2) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dividends received deduction | (241) | (0.3) | (322) | (0.2) | (368) | (0.3) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tax credits |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Alternative minimum tax write-off |  |  | 1196 | 0.9 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Research and development and other credits | (610) | (0.7) | (735) | (0.5) | (557) | (0.4) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other items, net | 672 | 0.7 | (1013) | (0.8) | 938 | 0.7 |
| Total provision for income taxes, at effective tax rate | $21489 | 23.2% | $30266 | 23.2% | $32700 | 23.9% |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) State taxes in New Jersey made up the majority (greater than 50%) of the tax effect in this category.

------

The difference between income taxes that would have been computed at the statutory federal rate and the total provision for income taxes at the Company's effective tax rate is primarily due to adjustments related to state income taxes, net of federal benefit, and earnings on BOLI during the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024. In addition, the Company recorded an alternative minimum tax credit write-off during the year ended December 31, 2024. The Company's state income tax provision, net of federal benefit, increases the total tax provision as it is computed separately from the federal tax provision. Earnings on BOLI are tax exempt for federal income tax purposes and reduce the total tax provision. At December 31, 2023, the Company had $1.2 million of Alternative Minimum Tax credits that were part of the Sun acquisition, which were fully written off during 2024.

Income taxes paid for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 consisted of the following (in thousands):

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Federal | $16149 | $27069 | $22200 |
| State and local |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;New Jersey | 2614 | 3242 | 2658 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;New York | 1020 | 2499 | 1995 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;New York City | 400 | 576 | 1773 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | 506 | 400 | 705 |
| Total | $20689 | $33786 | $29331 |

---

The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2025 and 2024 are presented in the following table (in thousands):

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31,** | **December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| Deferred tax assets: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for credit losses on loans and debt securities HTM | $21529 | $18981 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other reserves | 1787 | 2790 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Incentive compensation | 5620 | 4345 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred compensation | 326 | 338 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stock plans | 1998 | 2239 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unrealized losses on assets held-for-sale | 225 | 347 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unrealized losses on AFS securities | 897 | 5346 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net operating loss carryforwards related to acquisition | 17030 | 19053 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Section 174 capitalized costs | 4967 | 5457 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other, net | 729 | 866 |
| Total gross deferred tax assets | 55108 | 59762 |
| Deferred tax liabilities: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unrealized gain on equity securities | (4729) | (4568) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Premises and equipment | (2328) | (3104) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred loan and commitment costs, net | (5740) | (2814) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchase accounting related adjustments | (1553) | (1698) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Investments, discount accretion | (126) | (185) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other, net | (1058) | (402) |
| Total gross deferred tax liabilities | (15534) | (12771) |
| Net deferred tax assets | $39574 | $46991 |

---

The Company has federal net operating losses from the acquisitions of Colonial American and Sun. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, the net operating losses from Colonial American were $2.9 million and $3.3 million, respectively. These net operating losses are subject to annual limitation under Code Section 382 of approximately $22,000, and will expire between 2029 and 2034. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, the net operating losses from Sun were $78.1 million and $87.5 million, respectively.

------

These net operating losses are subject to annual limitation under Code Section 382 of approximately $9.3 million. These net operating losses will expire between 2029 and 2036.

At December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, the Company determined that it is not required to establish a valuation reserve for the remaining net deferred tax assets since it is "more likely than not" that the net deferred tax assets will be realized through future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, future taxable income and tax planning strategies. The conclusion that it is "more likely than not" that the remaining net deferred tax assets will be realized is based on the history of earnings and the prospects for continued growth. Management will continue to review the tax criteria related to the recognition of deferred tax assets.

Retained earnings at December 31, 2025 included approximately $10.8 million for which no deferred income tax liability has been recognized. This amount represents an allocation of income to bad debt deductions for tax purposes only for tax years prior to 1988. If the Bank were to liquidate, the entire amount would have to be recaptured and would create income for tax purposes only, which would be subject to the then-current corporate income tax rate.

The Company's federal and state income tax returns are routinely subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and several other state and city tax authorities the Company operates in. The Company believes the assumptions used to record tax-related assets or liabilities have been appropriate. However, such examinations may result in challenges to the tax return treatment applied by the Company to specific transactions.

The Company is currently under examination by the New Jersey Division of Taxation in connection with the 2020 to 2023 tax years. As of December 31, 2025, the Company has not received any notices of proposed adjustments from this audit. The tax years that remain subject to examination by the federal government and most state or city tax authorities include the tax years 2021 and forward.

The Company incurred income tax expense of $1.8 million recognized in other comprehensive income related to Tax Reform in 2018. These amounts have been reported as separate components of accumulated other comprehensive income and reclassified and recognized as a net tax benefit in the periods in which the underlying transactions are settled through continuing operations. The amount included in accumulated other comprehensive income at December 31, 2025, subject to reclassification, was $265,000.

There were no unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023.

**<u>Note 11. Employee Stock Ownership Plan</u>**

The Bank maintains an ESOP which all full-time employees are eligible to participate in after they attain age 21 and complete one year of service during which they work at least 1000 hours. ESOP shares are allocated among participants on the basis of compensation earned during the year. Employees are fully vested in their ESOP account after the completion of five years of credited service or completely, if service was terminated due to death, retirement, disability or change in control of the Company. ESOP participants are entitled to receive distributions from the ESOP account only upon termination of service, which includes retirement and death, except that a participant may elect to have dividends distributed as a cash payment on a quarterly basis.

Over the years, the ESOP has borrowed from the Company to purchase shares of common stock. During 2025 and 2024, the ESOP had one outstanding loan agreement with the Bank ("the 2018 loan").

The 2018 loan allowed the ESOP to borrow an additional $8.4 million from the Company at a fixed interest rate of 3.25%, which matures on December 31, 2026, to purchase 292,592 shares of common stock.

The loan is to be repaid from contributions by the Bank to the ESOP trustee. The Bank is required to make contributions to the ESOP in amounts at least equal to the principal and interest requirement of the debt.

The Bank's obligation to make such contributions is reduced to the extent of any dividends paid by the Company on unallocated shares and any investment earnings realized on such dividends. As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, contributions to the ESOP, which were used to fund principal and interest payments on the ESOP loan, totaled $1.5 million for each year. During 2025 and 2024, $105,000 and $158,000, respectively, of dividends paid on unallocated ESOP shares were used for debt service. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, the loan had an outstanding balance of $1.5 million and $2.9 million, respectively, and the ESOP had unallocated shares of 65,953 and 131,672, respectively. At December 31, 2025, the unallocated shares had a fair value of $1.2 million. The unamortized balance of the ESOP is shown as unallocated common stock held by the ESOP and is reflected as a reduction of stockholders' equity.

------

For the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, the Bank recorded compensation expense related to the ESOP of $1.2 million, $1.1 million and $2.1 million, respectively, which included $74,000, $124,000 and $341,000 related to a decrease in compensation to reflect the decrease in the average fair value of shares committed to be released and allocated shares below the Bank's cost. As of December 31, 2025, 2,951,395 shares had been allocated to participants and 65,719 shares were committed to be released for services rendered in 2025.

**<u>Note 12. Long-Term Incentive Plans</u>**

The Company offers long-term incentive plans that provide for the granting of stock awards (both time-vested and performance-based) and stock options, as well as phantom stock units. The Company has established these plans to attract and retain qualified personnel in key positions, provide officers, employees, and non-employee directors with a proprietary interest in the Company as an incentive to contribute to the success of the Company, align the interests of management with those of other stockholders and reward employees for outstanding performance. Equity awards are discretionary and are targeted to a broad range of employees, including those in leadership roles, revenue generators, key contributors, and high-potential individuals who have contributed to the Company's long-term strategic objectives.

<u>Overview of Incentive Plans</u>

The OceanFirst Financial Corp. 2020 Stock Incentive Plan, which also authorized the granting of stock options or awards of common stock, was approved by stockholders in 2020. This plan was subsequently amended in 2021 to increase the number of shares authorized for issuance through equity awards.

The following table presents the amount of the plan's authorized shares and those that remain available for issuance as of December 31, 2025. The Plan allowed the Company to authorize shares subject to options or, in lieu of options, shares in the form of stock awards.

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Authorized Awards** | **Authorized Awards** | **Authorized Awards** | **Authorized but Not Issued** | **Authorized but Not Issued** | **Authorized but Not Issued** |
| | **Stock Options** | **or** | **Stock Awards** | **Stock Options** | **or** | **Stock Awards** |
| 2020 Plan | 6950000 |  | 2780000 | 2165868 |  | 866347 |

---

<u>Stock Awards</u>

The Company grants time-based and performance-based restricted stock awards. Time-based awards vest ratably, and generally have a three- to five-year vesting period. Performance-based stock awards, which are granted to certain senior executives and senior management employees, vest based on the estimated probability of achievement of defined tiered performance goals or include market-based conditions. Performance-based stock awards have tiered performance goals for each metric and are aligned with corresponding tiered vesting values. Performance-based stock awards have been set using financial data from the applicable strategic plan as approved by the Board, or based on financial metrics relative to the peer index.

The Company granted performance-based stock awards in 2025, 2024 and 2023. The 2025 and 2024 performance-based stock awards were generally issued with a three or four year cliff vesting schedule, while some awards vest ratably over a four year period. The 2023 performance-based stock awards were issued with a three year cliff vesting schedule.

Certain 2025, 2024 and 2023 performance-based stock awards include a market-based condition. The fair value of these awards were estimated through the use of the Monte Carlo valuation model at the time of grant, applying the following assumptions:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Risk-free interest rate | 3.99% | 4.47% | 4.56% |
| Expected performance period | 2.8 years | 2.8 years | 2.8 years |
| Expected volatility | 37.12% | 34.00% | 35.80% |

---

------

The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S Treasury rate, with a term equal to the expected performance period. The expected performance period reflects the remaining term of the awards' performance period. Expected volatility is based on actual historical results.

A summary of the granted but unvested stock award activity, which included both time- and performance-based stock awards, for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 is as follows:

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** | **2023** | **2023** |
| | **Number<br>of<br>Shares** | **Weighted<br>Average<br>Grant Date<br>Fair Value** | **Number<br>of<br>Shares** | **Weighted<br>Average<br>Grant Date<br>Fair Value** | **Number<br>of<br>Shares** | **Weighted<br>Average<br>Grant Date<br>Fair Value** |
| Outstanding at beginning of year: | 1071535 | $18.29 | 814489 | $21.73 | 835340 | $21.84 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Granted | 345644 | 17.32 | 554081 | 15.35 | 322425 | 22.14 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vested | (240457) | 20.11 | (200254) | 22.41 | (228370) | 22.55 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Forfeited | (118159) | 20.37 | (96781) | 21.93 | (114906) | 22.07 |
| Outstanding at end of year | 1058563 | $17.32 | 1071535 | $18.29 | 814489 | $21.73 |

---

<u>Stock Options</u>

The Company's stock options expire 10 years from the date of grant and generally vest at a rate of 20% per year. The exercise price of each option equals the closing market price of the Company's stock on the grant date. The Company typically issues treasury shares or authorized but unissued shares to satisfy stock option exercises.

The Company has not granted stock options since 2020.

A summary of option activity for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 is as follows:

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** | **2023** | **2023** |
| | **Number<br>of<br>Shares** | **Weighted<br>Average<br>Exercise<br>Price** | **Number<br>of<br>Shares** | **Weighted<br>Average<br>Exercise<br>Price** | **Number<br>of<br>Shares** | **Weighted<br>Average<br>Exercise<br>Price** |
| Outstanding at beginning of year | 1629602 | $22.85 | 1969439 | $22.42 | 2210684 | $21.66 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Exercised | (41750) | 17.19 | (33125) | 17.24 | (195684) | 14.59 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Forfeited |  |  | (15358) | 20.44 | (15358) | 20.44 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Expired | (101682) | 17.38 | (291354) | 20.74 | (30203) | 18.32 |
| Outstanding at end of year | 1486170 | $23.38 | 1629602 | $22.85 | 1969439 | $22.42 |
| Options exercisable | 1486170 | $23.38 | 1528067 | $23.01 | 1663506 | $22.58 |

---

The aggregate intrinsic value for both stock options outstanding and stock options exercisable at December 31, 2025 was $93,000. The weighted average remaining contractual life of stock options outstanding and stock options exercisable at December 31, 2025 was 2.47 years.

<u>Phantom Stock Units</u>

In 2022, the Company established the OceanFirst Bank Phantom Equity Plan to issue phantom stock units to select senior management employees. The phantom stock units are liability-classified time-based awards, which generally vest ratably over a three- to five-year period, and are settled in cash when they vest. The fair value is determined based on the Company's stock price at the grant date and remeasured monthly.

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<u>Compensation Expense</u>

The compensation expense for stock awards, stock options and phantom stock units were as follows (in thousands):

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Stock awards | $4818 | $5724 | $5154 |
| Stock options | 49 | 360 | 700 |
| Phantom stock units | 2518 | 1707 | 1092 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $7385 | $7791 | $6946 |

---

At December 31, 2025, the Company had an estimated $14.4 million of unrecognized compensation costs related to non-vested stock awards, stock options, and phantom stock units. This cost will be recognized over the remaining vesting period of 1.7 years.

**<u>Note 13. Commitments, Contingencies, and Concentrations of Credit Risk</u>**

The Company, in the normal course of business, is party to financial instruments and commitments which involve, to varying degrees, elements of risk in excess of the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements. These financial instruments and commitments include unused consumer lines of credit, construction loan lines of credit, commercial lines of credit, and commitments to extend credit.

At December 31, 2025, the following commitments and contingent liabilities existed which are not reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements (in thousands):

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** |
| Unused consumer and residential construction loan lines of credit (primarily floating-rate) | $278830 |
| Unused commercial and commercial construction loan lines of credit (primarily floating-rate) | 1602901 |
| Other commitments to extend credit <sup>(1)</sup>: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fixed-rate | 133617 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Adjustable-rate | 1100 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Floating-rate | 339342 |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)As of December 31, 2025, the Company has outsourced its residential and consumer originations, and the pipeline for residential loans represents the remaining commitments expected to close in 2026.

The Company's fixed-rate loan commitments generally expire within 90 days of issuance and carried interest rates ranging from 5.56% to 8.00% at December 31, 2025.

At December 31, 2025, the Company had $6.4 million of unfunded capital commitments related to investment funds.

The Company's maximum exposure to credit losses in the event of nonperformance by the other party to these financial instruments and commitments is represented by the contractual amounts. The Company uses the same credit policies in granting commitments and conditional obligations as it does for financial instruments recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition.

These commitments and obligations do not necessarily represent future cash flow requirements. The Company evaluates each customer's creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary, is based on management's assessment of risk. Substantially all of the unused consumer and construction loan lines of credit are collateralized by mortgages on real estate.

At December 31, 2025, the Company is obligated under noncancelable operating leases and rental agreements for premises and equipment. Rental and lease expense under these leases were $6.8 million, $5.8 million, and $5.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Refer to Note 17. Leases for the projected minimum lease commitments as of December 31, 2025.

The Company granted residential real estate and first mortgage commercial real estate loans to borrowers primarily located throughout New Jersey and in the major metropolitan areas from Massachusetts through Virginia. The ability of borrowers to

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repay their obligations is dependent upon various factors including the borrowers' income, net worth, cash flows generated by the underlying collateral, value of the underlying collateral, and priority of the Company's lien on the property. Such factors are dependent upon various economic conditions and individual circumstances beyond the Company's control. The Company is, therefore, subject to risk of loss. A decline in real estate values could cause some residential and commercial real estate loans to become inadequately collateralized, which would expose the Company to a greater risk of loss.

The Company believes its lending policies and procedures adequately minimize the potential exposure to such risks and collateral and/or guarantees are required for most loans.

The Company is a defendant in certain claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. Management and its legal counsel are of the opinion that the ultimate disposition of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity.

**<u>Note 14. Earnings Per Share</u>**

The following reconciles shares outstanding for basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands):

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31,** | **December 31,** | **December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Weighted average shares outstanding | 57833 | 58704 | 59399 |
| Less: Unallocated ESOP shares | (99) | (164) | (257) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unallocated incentive award shares | (315) | (244) | (194) |
| Average basic shares outstanding | 57419 | 58296 | 58948 |
| Add: Effect of dilutive securities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Incentive awards | 6 | 1 | 9 |
| Average diluted shares outstanding | 57425 | 58297 | 58957 |

---

For the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, antidilutive stock options of 1,350,000, 1,755,000, and 1,775,000, respectively, were excluded from the earnings per share calculation.

**<u>Note 15. Fair Value Measurements</u>**

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. A fair value measurement assumes that the transaction to sell the asset or transfer the liability occurs in the principal market for the asset or liability or in the absence of a principal market, the most advantageous market for the asset or liability. The price in the principal (or most advantageous) market used to measure the fair value of the asset or liability shall not be adjusted for transaction costs. An orderly transaction is a transaction that assumes exposure to the market for a period prior to the measurement date to allow for marketing activities that are usual and customary for transactions involving such assets and liabilities; it is not a forced transaction. Market participants are buyers and sellers in the principal market that are (i) independent, (ii) knowledgeable, (iii) able to transact, and (iv) willing to transact.

The Company uses valuation techniques that are consistent with the market approach, the income approach, and/or the cost approach. The market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets and liabilities. The income approach uses valuation techniques to convert future amounts, such as cash flows or earnings, to a single present amount on a discounted basis. The cost approach is based on the amount that currently would be required to replace the service capacity of an asset (replacement costs). Valuation techniques should be consistently applied. Inputs to valuation techniques refer to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Inputs may be observable, meaning those that reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability and developed based on market data obtained from independent sources, or unobservable, meaning those that reflect the reporting entity's own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability and developed based on the best information available in the circumstances. In that regard, a fair value hierarchy has been established for valuation inputs that gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs. The fair value hierarchy is as follows:

Level 1 Inputs – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date.

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Level 2 Inputs – Inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (for example, interest rates, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlations or other means.

Level 3 Inputs – Significant unobservable inputs that reflect an entity's own assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the assets or liabilities.

**Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value**

A description of the valuation methodologies used for assets and liabilities measured at fair value, as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy, is set forth below. Certain financial assets and financial liabilities are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis, that is, the instruments are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances (for example, when there is evidence of impairment).

<u>Debt Securities Available-for-Sale</u>

Debt securities classified as available-for-sale are reported at fair value. Fair value of U.S. Treasuries are determined using quoted prices in active markets (Level 1). The majority of the other debt securities are determined using inputs other than quoted prices that are based on market observable information (Level 2). Level 2 debt securities are priced through third-party pricing services or security industry sources that actively participate in the buying and selling of securities. Prices obtained from these sources include market quotations and matrix pricing. Matrix pricing is a mathematical technique used principally to value certain debt securities without relying exclusively on quoted prices for the specific securities, but comparing the debt securities to benchmark or comparable debt securities.

<u>Equity Investments</u>

Equity investments with readily determinable fair value are reported at fair value. Fair value for these investments is primarily determined using a quoted price in an active market or exchange (Level 1) or using inputs other than quoted prices that are based on market observable information (Level 2). Equity investments without readily determinable fair values are carried at cost less impairment, if any, plus or minus adjustments resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or similar investment of the same issuer (measurement alternative). Certain equity investments without readily determinable fair values are measured at NAV per share as a practical expedient, which are excluded from the fair value hierarchy levels in the table below.

<u>Interest Rate Derivatives</u>

The Company's interest rate swaps and cap contracts are reported at fair value utilizing discounted cash flow models provided by an independent, third-party and observable market data (Level 2). When entering into an interest rate swap or cap contract, the Company is exposed to fair value changes due to interest rate movements, and also the potential nonperformance of the contract counterparty.

<u>Other Real Estate Owned and Loans Individually Measured for Impairment</u>

Other real estate owned and loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral are recorded at estimated fair value, less estimated selling costs. Fair value is generally based on independent appraisals (Level 3), which may be adjusted by management for qualitative factors, such as economic factors and estimated liquidation expenses.

<u>Credit Default Swap</u>

The credit default swap is reported at fair value. The fair value of the credit default swap is estimated utilizing discounted cash flows and is derived from various inputs. The inputs include unobservable inputs to measure the probability of future credit events for a portion of the Company's underlying residential loan portfolio in which no active market exists. The credit default swap is therefore classified within Level 3 on the hierarchy.

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The following table summarizes financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, segregated by the level of the valuation inputs within the fair value hierarchy utilized to measure fair value (in thousands):

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | | **Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using:** | **Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using:** | **Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using:** |
| |<br>**Total Fair<br>Value** | **Level 1<br>Inputs** | **Level 2<br>Inputs** | **Level 3<br>Inputs** |
| **December 31, 2025** | | | | |
| Items measured on a recurring basis: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Debt securities available-for-sale | $1231827 | $43385 | $1188442 | $— |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Equity investments | 45207 |  | 45207 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest rate derivative asset | 57823 |  | 57823 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest rate derivative liability | (53835) |  | (53835) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Credit default swap | (234) |  |  | (234) |
| Items measured on a non-recurring basis: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Equity investments <sup>(1) (2)</sup> | 46675 |  |  | 40163 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other real estate owned | 10266 |  |  | 10266 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral <sup>(3)</sup> | 24470 |  |  | 24470 |
| **December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |  |
| Items measured on a recurring basis: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Debt securities available-for-sale | $827500 | $49466 | $778034 | $— |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Equity investments | 40447 |  | 40447 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest rate derivative asset | 91352 |  | 91352 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest rate derivative liability | (91483) |  | (91483) |  |
| Items measured on a non-recurring basis: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Equity investments <sup>(1) (2)</sup> | 43657 |  |  | 39676 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other real estate owned | 1811 |  |  | 1811 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral <sup>(3)</sup> | 25148 |  |  | 25148 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, equity investments included $40.2 million and $39.7 million, respectively, of equity investments measured under the measurement alternative. There were no realized gains or losses for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, equity investments included $6.5 million and $4.0 million, respectively, of certain equity investment funds measured at NAV per share (or its equivalent) as a practical expedient to fair value and these equity investments have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy levels.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) Primarily consists of commercial loans, which are collateral dependent. The range may vary but is generally 0% to 8% on the discount for costs to sell and 0% to 10% on appraisal adjustments.

The credit default swap is recognized at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs, and the Company recognized $234,000 of losses in earnings for the year ended December 31, 2025.

The Company recognizes transfers between levels of the valuation hierarchy at the end of the applicable reporting periods. There were no transfers into or out of Level 3 for the year ended December 31, 2025 or 2024.

**Assets and Liabilities Disclosed at Fair Value**

A description of the valuation methodologies used for assets and liabilities disclosed at fair value, as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy, is set forth below.

<u>Cash and Due from Banks</u>

For cash and due from banks, the carrying amount approximates fair value.

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<u>Debt Securities Held-to-Maturity</u>

Debt securities classified as held-to-maturity are carried at amortized cost, as the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold these debt securities to maturity. The Company determines the fair value of the debt securities utilizing Level 2 inputs. Most of the Company's debt securities are fixed income instruments that are not quoted on an exchange, but are bought and sold in active markets. Prices for these instruments are obtained through third-party pricing vendors or security industry sources that actively participate in the buying and selling of debt securities. Prices obtained from these sources include market quotations and matrix pricing. Matrix pricing is a mathematical technique used principally to value certain debt securities without relying exclusively on quoted prices for the specific debt securities, but comparing the debt securities to benchmark or comparable debt securities.

Management's policy is to obtain and review all available documentation from the third-party pricing service relating to their fair value determinations, including their methodology and summary of inputs. Management reviews this documentation, makes inquiries of the third-party pricing service and decides as to the level of the valuation inputs. Based on the Company's review of the available documentation from the third-party pricing service, management concluded that Level 2 inputs were utilized for all securities.

<u>Restricted Equity Investments</u>

The fair value of these investments, which are primarily Federal Home Loan Bank of New York and Federal Reserve Bank stock, is its carrying value since this is the amount for which it could be redeemed. There is no active market for this stock and the Company is required to maintain a minimum investment as stipulated by the respective entities.

<u>Loans Receivable and Loans Held-for-Sale</u>

Fair values are estimated for portfolios of loans with similar financial characteristics. Loans are segregated by type such as residential real estate, consumer and commercial. Each loan category is further segmented into fixed and adjustable rate interest terms.

Fair value of performing and non-performing loans, which is based on an exit price notion, was estimated by discounting the future cash flows, net of estimated prepayments, at market discount rates that reflect the credit and interest rate risk inherent in the loan.

Loans held for sale are carried at the lower of unpaid principal balance, net, or estimated fair value on an aggregate basis. Estimated fair value is generally determined based on bid quotations from secondary markets.

<u>Deposits Other than Time Deposits</u>

The fair value of deposits with no stated maturity, such as non-interest-bearing demand deposits, savings, and interest-bearing checking accounts and money market accounts is, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand. The related insensitivity of the majority of these deposits to interest rate changes creates a significant inherent value which is not reflected in the fair value reported.

<u>Time Deposits</u>

The fair value of time deposits is based on the discounted value of contractual cash flows. The discount rate is estimated using the rates currently offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities.

<u>FHLB Advances and Other Borrowings</u>

Fair value estimates are based on discounting contractual cash flows using rates which approximate the rates offered for borrowings of similar remaining maturities.

<u>Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase with Customers</u>

Fair value approximates the carrying amount as these borrowings are payable on demand and the interest rate adjusts monthly.

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The book value and estimated fair value of the Company's significant financial instruments not recorded at fair value as of December 31, 2025 and 2024 are presented in the following tables (in thousands):

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | | **Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using** | **Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using** | **Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using** |
| |<br>**Book<br>Value** | **Level 1<br>Inputs** | **Level 2<br>Inputs** | **Level 3<br>Inputs** |
| **December 31, 2025** | | | | |
| Financial Assets: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and due from banks | $135130 | $135130 | $— | $— |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Debt securities held-to-maturity | 881568 |  | 825790 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Restricted equity investments | 129329 |  |  | 129329 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loans receivable, net and loans held-for-sale  | 10976434 |  |  | 10665389 |
| Financial Liabilities: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deposits other than time deposits <sup>(1)</sup> | 8495555 |  | 8495555 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Time deposits | 2468850 |  | 2455199 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FHLB advances and other borrowings | 1652412 |  | 1662638 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Securities sold under agreements to repurchase with customers | 54434 | 54434 |  |  |
| **December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |  |
| Financial Assets: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and due from banks | $123615 | $123615 | $— | $— |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Debt securities held-to-maturity | 1045875 |  | 952917 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Restricted equity investments | 108634 |  |  | 108634 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loans receivable, net and loans held-for-sale | 10076640 |  |  | 9551156 |
| Financial Liabilities: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deposits other than time deposits <sup>(1)</sup> | 7985370 |  | 7985370 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Time deposits | 2080972 |  | 2074698 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FHLB advances and other borrowings | 1270157 |  | 1264260 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Securities sold under agreements to repurchase with customers | 60567 | 60567 |  |  |

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(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The estimated fair value of non-maturity deposits does not consider any inherent value and represents the amount payable on demand. However, non-maturity deposits do contain significant inherent value to the Company, particularly when overnight funding costs are greater than the deposit costs.

**Limitations**

Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument. These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time the Company's entire holdings of a particular financial instrument. Because a limited market exists for a significant portion of the Company's financial instruments, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments and other significant unobservable inputs. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and, therefore, cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.

Fair value estimates are based on existing balance sheet financial instruments without attempting to estimate the value of anticipated future business and the value of assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments. Significant assets and liabilities that are not considered financial assets or liabilities include premises and equipment, bank owned life insurance, and goodwill. In addition, the tax ramifications related to the realization of the unrealized gains and losses can have a significant effect on fair value estimates and have not been considered in the estimates.

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**<u>Note 16. Derivatives and Hedging Activities</u>**

The Company enters into derivative financial instruments which involve, to varying degrees, interest rate and credit risk. The Company manages these risks as part of its asset and liability management process and through credit policies and procedures, seeking to minimize counterparty credit risk by establishing credit limits and collateral agreements. The Company utilizes derivative financial instruments to accommodate the business needs of its customers as well as to economically hedge the exposure that this creates for the Company. Additionally, the Company enters into certain derivative financial instruments to enhance its ability to manage interest rate risk that exists as part of its ongoing business operations. The Company may also enter into derivative financial instruments to reduce credit risk and manage regulatory capital levels. The Company does not use derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.

**Customer Derivatives – Interest Rate Swaps and Cap Contracts**

<u>Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments</u>

*Interest Rate Swaps and Cap Contracts*

The Company enters into interest rate swaps that allow commercial loan customers to effectively convert a variable-rate commercial loan agreement to a fixed-rate commercial loan agreement. Under these agreements, the Company enters into a variable-rate loan agreement with a customer in addition to an interest rate swap agreement, which serves to effectively swap the customer's variable-rate loan into a fixed-rate loan. The Company then enters into a corresponding swap agreement with a third party in order to economically hedge its exposure through the customer agreement. The Company also enters into interest rate cap contracts that enable commercial loan customers to lock in a cap on a variable-rate commercial loan agreement. This feature prevents the loan from repricing to a level that exceeds the cap contract's specified interest rate, which serves to hedge the risk from rising interest rates. The Company then enters into an offsetting interest rate cap contract with a third party in order to economically hedge its exposure through the customer agreement.

These interest rate swaps and cap contracts with both the customers and third parties are not designated as hedges under ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and therefore changes in fair value are reported in earnings. As the interest rate swaps and cap contracts are structured to offset each other, changes to the underlying benchmark interest rates considered in the valuation of these instruments do not result in an impact to earnings; however, there may be fair value adjustments related to credit quality variations between counterparties, which may impact earnings as required by ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements. The Company recognized losses of $24,000, gains of $8,000 and losses of $5,000 in commercial loan swap income resulting from fair value adjustments for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

*Credit Default Swap*

In December 2025, the Company entered into a credit default swap related to a $1.52 billion pool of on-balance sheet residential mortgage loans, as the buyer of credit protection, to manage regulatory capital levels and reduce credit risk. The swap is a freestanding derivative as the contract is distinct from the referenced loan agreements and is executed with a separate counterparty. Under the terms of the swap contract, the Company will be compensated for certain credit-related losses on the residential mortgage loan pool, which have a total remaining principal balance of $1.50 billion as of December 31, 2025. The credit default swap is measured at fair value in either other assets or other liabilities on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition, and the related gains or losses are recognized in other non-interest income on the Consolidated Statements of Income. The loss on the credit default swap for the year ended December 31, 2025 was $234,000. As the buyer of credit protection, the Company pays a premium to the protection seller in return for the right to receive a payment if a specified credit event occurs. The credit default swap terminates in October 2055.

<u>Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments</u>

*Interest Rate Swap Contracts - Fair Value Hedge*

During 2025, the Company entered into interest rate swap derivatives to hedge the changes in fair value of AFS debt securities due to changes in interest rates. The swaps hedge the interest rate risk component of the change in fair value of the hedged items (i.e., hedged layers of AFS debt securities), and were designated and qualified as portfolio layer method fair value hedges under ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging. The last of the fair value hedges is scheduled to expire in October 2042.

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For AFS securities that are included in a fair value hedge relationship, changes in fair value related to changes to the benchmark interest rate on AFS securities are immediately recognized into interest income in the Consolidated Statements of Income, and are offset by the change in the fair value of the interest rate swap derivatives. Changes in fair value of the AFS securities that are unrelated to interest rate risk are recorded in OCI as net unrealized gains (losses) on AFS securities. Throughout the life of the hedges, basis adjustments are maintained at the portfolio level and are allocated to individual assets only under certain circumstances. These circumstances include instances where the portfolio amount falls below the hedged layer amounts, or in cases of voluntary de-designation. The cumulative fair value hedge basis adjustments included in the carrying amount of hedged assets are reversed through the Consolidated Statements of Income in future periods as an adjustment to yield. All swaps involved in fair value hedges have been determined to be effective.

The following table presents the amortized cost and cumulative basis adjustment for closed portfolios of securities used to designate fair value hedging relationships (in thousands):

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| | **As of December 31, 2025** |
| AFS securities: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Amortized cost (excluding fair value hedge basis adjustment) | $682878 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Fair value hedge basis adjustment | (4038) |

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The table below presents the effects of fair value hedges on net interest income, as well as their location on the Consolidated Statements of Income (in thousands):

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Location of Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Income** | **For the Year Ended December 31, 2025** |
| AFS securities: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Gain recognized on derivatives | Interest income - debt securities | $4030 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Loss recognized on hedged items | Interest income - debt securities | (4038) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net loss recognized on fair value hedges | Interest income - debt securities | $(8) |

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*Interest Rate Swap Contract - Cash Flow Hedge*

During 2022, the Company entered into a three-year interest rate swap intended to add stability to its net interest income and to manage its exposure to future interest rate movements associated with a pool of floating rate commercial loans. The swap requires the Company to pay variable-rate amounts indexed to one-month term SOFR to the counterparty in exchange for the receipt of fixed-rate amounts at 4.0% from the counterparty. The swap was designated and qualified as a cash flow hedge, under ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging. The changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges are initially reported in other comprehensive income. Amounts are subsequently reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings when the hedged transactions occur, specifically within the same line item as the hedged item (interest income). Therefore, a portion of the balance reported in accumulated other comprehensive income related to derivatives will be reclassified to interest income as interest payments are made or received on the Company's interest rate swaps.

The table below presents the effect on the Company's AOCI/AOCL attributable to the cash flow hedge derivative, net of tax, and the related gains/(losses) reclassified from AOCI into income (in thousands):

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| AOCL balance at beginning of period, net of tax | $(87) | $(36) | $(25) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unrealized losses recognized in OCI | (108) | (956) | (808) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Losses reclassified from AOCL into interest income | 195 | 905 | 797 |
| AOCL balance at end of period, net of tax | $— | $(87) | $(36) |

---

The cash flow hedge matures on January 1, 2026, and there will be no additional reclassifications into interest income.

------

<u>Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments and Designated as Hedging Instruments</u>

The table below presents the notional amount and fair value of derivatives designated and not designated as hedging instruments, as well as their location on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (in thousands):

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Notional** | **Fair Value** | **Fair Value** |
| | **Notional** | **Other assets** | **Other liabilities** |
| **As of December 31, 2025** | | | |
| Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest rate swaps and cap contracts | $1537760 | $53768 | $53809 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Credit default swap | 75802 |  | 234 |
| Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest rate swap contract - cash flow hedge | 100000 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest rate swap contracts - fair value hedge | 678921 | 4055 | 26 |
| **Total Derivatives** | $2392483 | $57823 | $54069 |
| **As of December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |
| Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest rate swaps and cap contracts | $1468022 | $91352 | $91368 |
| Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedge |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest rate swaps contract | 100000 |  | 115 |
| **Total Derivatives** | $1568022 | $91352 | $91483 |

---

**Credit Risk-Related Mitigating Features**

The Company is exposed to credit risk in the event of nonperformance by various derivative counterparties. The Company minimizes risk of nonperformance by being a party to International Swaps and Derivatives Association agreements with third party broker-dealers that require a minimum dollar transfer amount upon a margin call. This requirement is dependent on certain specified credit measures. There was no cash collateral posted by the Company with these third parties at both December 31, 2025 and 2024. The amount of cash collateral received from these third parties was $42.9 million and $93.3 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The amount of cash collateral posted or received with these third parties is deemed to be sufficient to collateralize both the fair market value change as well as any additional amounts that may be required as a result of a change in the specified credit measures.

The interest rate derivatives which the Company executes with the commercial borrowers are collateralized by the borrowers' commercial real estate financed by the Company. The credit default swap is not exposed to counterparty credit risk as it is fully collateralized.

The aggregate fair value of all derivative financial instruments in a net liability position with credit measure contingencies and entered into with third parties was $54.0 million and $91.5 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

------

**<u>Note 17. Leases</u>**

A lease is defined as a contract, or part of a contract, that conveys the right to control the use of identified property, plant or equipment for a period of time in exchange for consideration. The Company's leases are comprised of real estate property for branches, automated teller machine locations and office space with terms extending through 2038. The Company has one existing finance lease, which has a lease term through 2029.

The following table represents the classification of the Company's ROU assets and lease liabilities on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (in thousands):

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** |
| **Lease ROU Assets** | **Classification** | | |
| Operating lease ROU assets | Other assets | $17596 | $15452 |
| Finance lease ROU asset | Premises and equipment, net | 838 | 1071 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total lease ROU assets |  | $18434 | $16523 |
| **Lease Liabilities** |  |  |  |
| Operating lease liabilities <sup>(1)</sup> | Other liabilities | $19037 | $17114 |
| Finance lease liability | Other borrowings | 1143 | 1421 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total lease liabilities |  | $20180 | $18535 |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Operating lease liabilities excludes liabilities for future rent and estimated lease termination payments related to closed branches of $897,000 and $4.4 million as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

The following table represents the weighted-average remaining lease term and weighted-average discount rate for the Company's operating and finance leases:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** |
| **Weighted-Average Remaining Lease Term** | | |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating leases | 5.82 years | 5.84 years |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Finance lease | 3.59 years | 4.59 years |
| **Weighted-Average Discount Rate** |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating leases | 3.57% | 3.08% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Finance lease | 5.63 | 5.63 |

---

The following table represents lease expenses and other lease information (in thousands):

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| **Lease Expense** |  |  |  |
| Operating lease expense | $5016 | $4586 | $4634 |
| Finance lease expense: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amortization of ROU assets | 233 | 233 | 228 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest on lease liabilities <sup>(1)</sup> | 71 | 86 | 101 |
| Total | $5320 | $4905 | $4963 |
| **Other Information** |  |  |  |
| Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating cash flows from operating leases | $5242 | $4773 | $4571 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating cash flows from finance leases | 71 | 86 | 101 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Financing cash flows from finance leases | 279 | 264 | 249 |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Included in borrowed funds interest expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income. All other costs are included in occupancy expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

------

Future minimum payments for the finance lease and operating leases with initial or remaining terms were as follows (in thousands):

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Finance Lease** | **Operating Leases** |
| **For the Year Ending December 31,** | | |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;2026 | $350 | $5253 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;2027 | 350 | 4154 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;2028 | 350 | 2977 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;2029 | 209 | 2701 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;2030 |  | 2146 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thereafter |  | 4038 |
| Total | 1259 | 21269 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: Imputed interest | (116) | (2232) |
| Total lease liabilities | $1143 | $19037 |

---

**<u>Note 18. Variable Interest Entity</u>**

On October 1, 2025, the Company disposed its controlling interest in Trident. Prior to the disposal, the Company accounted for Trident as a VIE under ASC 810, Consolidation, for which the Company was considered the primary beneficiary (i.e. the party that has a controlling financial interest). In accordance with ASC 810, Consolidation, the Company consolidated Trident's assets and liabilities prior to the disposal.

The summarized financial information for the Company's consolidated VIE consisted of the following (in thousands):

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** |
| Cash and cash equivalents | $— | $21642 |
| Other assets |  | 457 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total assets |  | 22099 |
| Other liabilities |  | 19333 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net assets | $— | $2766 |

---

------

**<u>Note 19. Parent-Only Financial Information</u>**

The following Condensed Statements of Financial Condition at December 31, 2025 and 2024 and Condensed Statements of Operations and Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 for OceanFirst Financial Corp. (parent company only) reflect the Company's investment in its wholly-owned subsidiaries, the Bank, and OceanFirst Risk Management, Inc., using the equity method of accounting. On October 1, 2025, the Company disposed its controlling interest in its Trident subsidiary.

**Condensed Statements of Financial Condition**

(in thousands)

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31,** | **December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| **Assets:** |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and due from banks | $13275 | $13214 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Advances to Bank | 74629 | 98321 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Equity securities | 84619 | 77327 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ESOP loan receivable | 1461 | 2871 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Investment in subsidiaries | 1744188 | 1704037 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Goodwill |  | 5827 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other assets | 4165 | 1817 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total assets | $1922337 | $1903414 |
| **Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity:** |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Borrowings | $254094 | $196124 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other liabilities | 5693 | 4533 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total liabilities | 259787 | 200657 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;OceanFirst Financial Corp. stockholders' equity | 1662550 | 1701650 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-controlling interest |  | 1107 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Total stockholders' equity | 1662550 | 1702757 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total liabilities and stockholders' equity | $1922337 | $1903414 |

---

**Condensed Statements of Operations**

(in thousands)

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Dividend income – subsidiaries | $62398 | $86350 | $97043 |
| Interest and dividend income – debt and equity securities | 2346 | 3319 | 2981 |
| Interest income – advances to subsidiary Bank | 3043 | 4423 | 2182 |
| Interest income – ESOP loan receivable | 93 | 138 | 183 |
| Net gain (loss) on equity investments | 916 | 4225 | (3732) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total income | 68796 | 98455 | 98657 |
| Interest expense – borrowings | 16639 | 13840 | 13569 |
| Operating expenses | 8245 | 4875 | 4050 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income before income taxes and undistributed earnings of subsidiaries | 43912 | 79740 | 81038 |
| Benefit for income taxes | 4202 | 1226 | 3807 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income before undistributed earnings of subsidiaries | 48114 | 80966 | 84845 |
| Undistributed earnings of subsidiaries | 22913 | 19424 | 19220 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net income | 71027 | 100390 | 104065 |
| Net income attributable to non-controlling interest | 49 | 325 | 36 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net income attributable to OceanFirst Financial Corp. | $70978 | $100065 | $104029 |

---

------

**Condensed Statements of Cash Flows**

(in thousands)

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** | **For the Year Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Cash flows from operating activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net income | $71027 | $100390 | $104065 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Decrease (increase) in advances to subsidiary Bank | 23692 | (31032) | (34449) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Undistributed earnings of subsidiary Bank | (22913) | (19424) | (19220) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net (gain) loss on equity investments | (916) | (4225) | 3732 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net premium amortization in excess of discount accretion on securities | 420 | 584 | 981 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amortization of deferred costs on borrowings | 338 | 626 | 598 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net amortization of purchase accounting adjustments | 751 | 727 | 704 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net loss on disposal of controlling interest in Trident | 4338 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Change in other assets and other liabilities | (763) | 4199 | (3995) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net cash provided by operating activities | 75974 | 51845 | 52416 |
| Cash flows from investing activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from sales of equity investments | 365 | 22783 | 4822 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchase of equity investments | (7161) | (3082) | (7661) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Repayments on ESOP loan receivable | 1410 | 1370 | 2510 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from disposal of controlling interest in Trident | 2750 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities | (2636) | 21071 | (329) |
| Cash flows from financing activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net proceeds from issuance of subordinated notes | 181882 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Repayments of other borrowings | (125000) |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dividends paid | (48247) | (50880) | (51274) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchase of treasury stock | (24945) | (21476) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Redemption of preferred stock | (57369) |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Exercise of stock options | 717 | 571 | 702 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Distributions to non-controlling interest | (315) |  | (55) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net cash used in financing activities | (73277) | (71785) | (50627) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net increase in cash and due from banks | 61 | 1131 | 1460 |
| Cash and due from banks at beginning of year | 13214 | 12083 | 10623 |
| Cash and due from banks at end of year | $13275 | $13214 | $12083 |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 9.** | **Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure** |

---

None.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 9A.** | **Controls and Procedures** |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>(a)</u><u>Disclosure Controls and Procedures</u>

The Company's management, including the Company's principal executive officer and principal financial officer, have evaluated the effectiveness of the Company's "disclosure controls and procedures" as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act, as amended. Based upon their evaluation, the principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective. Disclosure controls and procedures are the controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that the information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act with the SEC (1) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms, and (2) is accumulated and communicated to the Company's management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>(b)</u><u>Management Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting</u>

Management of OceanFirst Financial Corp. and its subsidiaries are responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company's principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company's Board, management, and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with GAAP and includes those policies and procedures that: (1) Pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) Provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Management, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, and oversight of the Board, evaluated the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025 using the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the COSO 2013 Framework.

Based on this assessment, management determined that, as of December 31, 2025, the Company's internal control over financial reporting was effective to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

The Company's independent registered public accounting firm has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. This report appears on page 74.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>(c)</u><u>Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting</u>

There were no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2025 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 9B.** | **Other Information** |

---

During the three months ended December 31, 2025, no directors or executive officers of the Company adopted or terminated any contract, instruction or written plan for the purchase or sale of the Company securities that was intended to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Rule 10b5-1(c) and/or any "Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement."

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 9C.** | **Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections** |

---

Not Applicable.

------

**PART III**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 10.** | **Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance** |

---

The information relating to directors, executive officers and corporate governance and the Company's compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act required by Part III is incorporated herein by reference to the Company's definitive proxy statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 11.** | **Executive Compensation** |

---

The information relating to executive compensation required by Part III is incorporated herein by reference to the Company's definitive proxy statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 12.** | **Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters** |

---

The information relating to security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management and related stockholder matters required by Part III is incorporated herein by reference to the Company's definitive proxy statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025.

Information regarding the Company's equity compensation plans existing as of December 31, 2025 is as follows:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Plan Category** | **Number of Securities<br>to be Issued Upon<br>Exercise of Outstanding<br>Options,<br>Warrants and Rights (A)** | **Weighted-average<br>Exercise Price of<br>Outstanding Options,<br>Warrants and Rights** | **Number of Securities<br>Remaining Available for<br>Future Issuance under<br>Equity Compensation<br>Plans (Excluding<br>Securities Reflected in<br>Column (A))** |
| Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders | 1486170 | $23.38 | 2165868 |
| Equity compensation plans not approved by stockholders |  |  |  |
| Total | 1486170 | $23.38 | 2165868 |

---

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 13.** | **Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence** |

---

The information relating to certain relationships and related transactions and director independence required by Part III is incorporated herein by reference to the Company's definitive proxy statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 14.** | **Principal Accountant Fees and Services** |

---

The independent public accounting firm is Deloitte & Touche LLP, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Their firm identification as assigned by the PCAOB is 34. The information relating to the principal accounting fees and services is incorporated herein by reference to the Company's definitive proxy statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025.

------

**PART IV**

**Item 15. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules**

(a)(1) <u>Financial Statements</u>

The following documents are filed as a part of this report:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| | **PAGE** |
| <u>[Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_169)</u> | <u>[70](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_169)</u> |
| <u>[Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition at December 31, 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_172)[5](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_172)[and 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_172)[4](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_172)</u> | <u>[74](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_172)</u> |
| <u>[Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_175)[5](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_175)[, 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_175)[4](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_175)[and 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_175)[3](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_175)</u> | <u>[75](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_175)</u> |
| <u>[Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31, 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_178)[5](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_178)[, 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_178)[4](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_178)[and 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_178)[3](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_178)</u> | <u>[76](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_178)</u> |
| <u>[Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_181)[5](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_181)[, 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_181)[4](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_181)[and 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_181)[3](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_181)</u> | <u>[77](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_181)</u> |
| <u>[Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_184)[5](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_184)[, 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_184)[4](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_184)[and 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_184)[3](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_184)</u> | <u>[78](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_184)</u> |
| <u>[Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the Years Ended December 31, 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_187)[5](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_187)[, 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_187)[4](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_187)[and 202](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_187)[3](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_187)</u> | <u>[81](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_187)</u> |

---

(a)(2) <u>Financial Statement Schedules</u>

All schedules are omitted because they are not required or applicable, or the required information is shown in the consolidated financial statements or the notes thereto.

------

(a)(3) <u>Exhibits</u>

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Exhibit No:** | **Exhibit Description** | **Reference** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[2.1](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000119312526002442/d89014dex21.htm)</u> | Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of December 29, 2025 by and among OceanFirst Financial Corp., Flushing Financial Corporation and Apollo Merger Sub Corp.  | Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Form 8-K filed on January 5, 2026 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[3.1](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/0000950109-96-002802.txt)</u> | Certificate of Incorporation of OceanFirst Financial Corp. | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form S-1, Registration Statement, effective May 13, 1996 as amended, Registration No. 33-80123. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[3.1A](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470218000107/exhibit31a.htm)</u> | Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of OceanFirst Financial Corp. | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit to Form 8-K filed on June 4, 2018. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[3.2](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470217000198/ex32revisedbylaws.htm)</u> | Bylaws of OceanFirst Financial Corp. | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit to Form 8-K filed on December 21, 2017. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[4.0](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/0000950109-96-002802.txt)</u> | Stock Certificate of OceanFirst Financial Corp. | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form S-1, Registration Statement, effective May 13, 1996 as amended, Registration No. 33-80123. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[4.7](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001004702/000100470221000026/exhibit40vi2020.htm)</u> | Description of the Registrant's Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 1, 2021. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[4.8](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000119312525255537/d94221dex42.htm)</u> | Form of 6.375% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Note due 2035 | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit A included in Exhibit 4.2 to Form 8-K filed on October 27, 2025. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[4.9](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000119312525255537/d94221dex41.htm)</u> | Indenture, dated October 29, 2025, between OceanFirst Financial Corp. and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Trustee | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K filed on October 27, 2025. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[4.10](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000119312525255537/d94221dex42.htm)</u> | First Supplemental Indenture, dated October 29, 2025, between OceanFirst Financial Corp. and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Trustee | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 4.2 to Form 8-K filed on October 27, 2025. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.1](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/0000950109-96-002802.txt)</u> | Form of OceanFirst Bank Employee Stock Ownership Plan | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form S-1, Registration Statement, effective May 13, 1996 as amended, Registration No. 33-80123. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.1(a)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/0000928385-97-000497.txt)</u> | Amendment to OceanFirst Bank Employee Stock Ownership Plan | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form 10-K filed on March 25, 1997. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.1(b)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000119312508058535/dex101b.htm)</u> | Amendment to OceanFirst Bank Employee Stock Ownership Plan | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit to Form 10-K filed on March 17, 2008. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.3](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/0000950109-96-002802.txt)</u> | OceanFirst Bank 1995 Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form S-1, Registration Statement, effective May 13, 1996 as amended, Registration No. 33-80123. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.4](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/0000950109-96-002802.txt)</u> | OceanFirst Bank Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form S-1, Registration Statement, effective May 13, 1996 as amended, Registration No. 33-80123. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.4(a)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000119312508199833/dex991.htm)</u> | OceanFirst Bank New Executive Deferred Compensation Master Agreement | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit to Form 8-K filed on September 23, 2008. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.5](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/0000950109-96-002802.txt)</u> | OceanFirst Bank Deferred Compensation Plan for Officers | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form S-1, Registration Statement, effective May 13, 1996 as amended, Registration No. 33-80123. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.5(a)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000119312508199833/dex992.htm)</u> | OceanFirst Bank New Director Deferred Compensation Master Agreement | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit to Form 8-K filed on September 23, 2008. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.18](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000119312505161814/dex1018.htm)</u> | Amendment and form of OceanFirst Bank Employee Severance Compensation Plan | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibits to Form 10-Q filed on August 9, 2005. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.19](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000119312506053510/dex1019.htm)</u> | Form of OceanFirst Financial Corp. Deferred Incentive Compensation Award Program | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibits to Form 10-K filed on March 14, 2006. |

---

------

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**Exhibit No:** | **Exhibit Description** | **Reference** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.30](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470217000116/ex1030.htm)</u> | Form of Employment Agreement between OceanFirst Financial Corp. and certain executive officers, including Christopher D. Maher, and Steven J. Tsimbinos | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit to Form 8-K filed on April 10, 2017. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.32](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000119312513265231/d556696dex1032.htm)</u> | Supplemental Executive Retirement Account Agreement between Christopher D. Maher and OceanFirst Bank dated June 18, 2013 | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit to Form 8-K filed June 20, 2013. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.35](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470217000116/ex1035.htm)</u> | Form of Employment Agreement between OceanFirst Financial Corp. and certain executive officers, including Joseph J. Lebel | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit to Form 8-K filed on April 10, 2017. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.35A](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470217000156/ex-1035a.htm)</u> | Form of First Amendment to Confidentiality and Executive Restriction Agreement Employment between OceanFirst Financial Corp. and certain executive officers, including Christopher D. Maher, Joseph J. Lebel III, and Steven J. Tsimbinos | Incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit to Form 8-K filed on June 27, 2017. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.40](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000130817920000190/locfc2020_def14a.htm)</u> | OceanFirst Financial Corp. 2020 Stock Incentive Plan | Incorporated hereto by reference to Appendix A to the Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A filed on April 22, 2020. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.41](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470220000124/ex10402020optionawarda.htm)</u> | Form of OceanFirst Financial Corp. 2020 Stock Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Stock Options | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 26, 2020. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.42](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470220000124/ex10412020stockincenti.htm)</u> | Form of OceanFirst Financial Corp. 2020 Stock Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Time-Vested Stock Awards | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 26, 2020. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.43](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470220000124/ex10422020restrictedst.htm)</u> | Form of OceanFirst Financial Corp. 2020 Stock Incentive Plan Performance Based Stock Award Agreement | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 26, 2020. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.44](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001004702/000130817921000238/locfc2021_def14a.htm)</u> | Amendment No.1 to the OceanFirst Financial Corp. 2020 Stock Incentive Plan | Incorporated hereto by reference to Appendix A to the Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A filed on April 20, 2021 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.47](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470222000079/exhibit1047executiveemploy.htm)</u> | Executive Employment Agreement between OceanFirst Financial Corp. and Patrick Barrett | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form 8-K filed on March 17, 2022 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.48](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470222000079/exhibit1048confidentiality.htm)</u> | Confidentiality and Executive Restriction Agreement | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form 8-K filed on March 17, 2022 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.49](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470222000079/exhibit1049cicagreement.htm)</u> | Executive Change in Control Agreement | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form 8-K filed on March 17, 2022 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[1](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000119312526002442/d89014dex102.htm)[0.50](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000119312526002442/d89014dex102.htm)</u> | Investment Agreement, dated December 29, 2025, by and between OceanFirst, Inc. and affiliates of funds managed by Warburg Pincus LLC | Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K filed on January 5, 2026 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[10.51](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470225000066/ex101-supplementalexecutiv.htm)</u> | Amended Supplemental Executive Retirement Account Agreement between Christopher D. Maher and OceanFirst Bank dated March 28, 2025 | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibit to Form 8-K filed on March 31, 2025 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[14.1](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470222000022/exhibit141202110k.htm)</u> | Amended OceanFirst Bank, N.A. Code of Ethics and Standards of Personal Conduct | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form 10-K filed on February 25, 2022 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[14.2](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470222000022/exhibit142202110k.htm)</u> | OceanFirst Financial Corp. Code of Ethics for Senior Officers | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form 10-K filed on February 25, 2022 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[19.0](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470225000012/exhibit190202410k.htm)</u> | Insider Trading Policy and Procedures (appendix omitted) | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to Form 10-K filed on February 28, 2025 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[21.0](#idf915decb2cc4e4aa20c92b052160d79_37)</u> | Subsidiary information | Incorporated herein by reference to "Part I - Subsidiary Activities" |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[23.1](exhibit2312025.htm)</u> | Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP | Filed herewith. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[31.1](exhibit3112025.htm)</u> | Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | Filed herewith. |

---

------

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Exhibit No:** | **Exhibit Description** | **Reference** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[31.2](exhibit3122025.htm)</u> | Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | Filed herewith. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[32.1](exhibit3212025.htm)</u> | Certifications pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as added by Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 | Filed herewith. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[97](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1004702/000100470224000011/exhibit97202310k.htm)</u> | Policy Relating to Recovery of Erroneously Awarded Compensation | Incorporated herein by reference from the Exhibits to the Form 10-K filed on February 23, 2024. |
| 101.0 | The following materials from the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Income, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity, (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (vi) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. | Filed herewith. |
| 101.INS | XBRL Instance Document | Filed herewith. |
| 101.SCH | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document | Filed herewith. |
| 101.CAL | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document | Filed herewith. |
| 101.LAB | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document | Filed herewith. |
| 101.PRE | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document | Filed herewith. |
| 101.DEF | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definitions Linkbase Document | Filed herewith. |
| 104.0 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document and included in Exhibit 101)  | Filed herewith. |

---

**Item 16. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Form 10-K Summary**

Not applicable.

------

**CONFORMED**

**SIGNATURES**

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| OCEANFIRST FINANCIAL CORP. | OCEANFIRST FINANCIAL CORP. |
| By: | /s/ Christopher D. Maher |
|  | Christopher D. Maher |
|  | Chairman of the Board and |
|  | Chief Executive Officer |
| Date: | February 27, 2026 |

---

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **<u>Name</u>** | **<u>Date</u>** |
| /s/ Christopher D. Maher | February 27, 2026 |
| Christopher D. Maher |  |
| Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |  |
| /s/ Patrick S. Barrett | February 27, 2026 |
| Patrick S. Barrett |  |
| Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) |  |
| /s/ Patrick Chong | February 27, 2026 |
| Patrick Chong |  |
| (Principal Accounting Officer) |  |
| /s/ John F. Barros | February 27, 2026 |
| John F. Barros |  |
| Director |  |
| /s/ Anthony R. Coscia | February 27, 2026 |
| Anthony R. Coscia |  |
| Director |  |
| /s/ Jack M. Farris | February 27, 2026 |
| Jack M. Farris |  |
| Director |  |
| /s/ Robert C. Garrett | February 27, 2026 |
| Robert C. Garrett |  |
| Director |  |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **<u>Name</u>** | **<u>Date</u>** |
| /s/ Kimberly M. Guadagno | February 27, 2026 |
| Kimberly M. Guadagno |  |
| Director |  |
| /s/ Nicos Katsoulis | February 27, 2026 |
| Nicos Katsoulis |  |
| Director |  |
| /s/ Joseph J. Lebel | February 27, 2026 |
| Joseph J. Lebel |  |
| Director, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer |  |
| /s/ Joseph M. Murphy, Jr. | February 27, 2026 |
| Joseph M. Murphy, Jr. |  |
| Director |  |
| /s/ Steven M. Scopellite | February 27, 2026 |
| Steven M. Scopellite |  |
| Director |  |
| /s/ Grace C. Torres | February 27, 2026 |
| Grace C. Torres |  |
| Director |  |
| /s/ Patricia L. Turner | February 27, 2026 |
| Patricia L. Turner |  |
| Director |  |
| /s/ Dalila Wilson-Scott | February 27, 2026 |
| Dalila Wilson-Scott |  |
| Director |  |

---

## Exhibit 23.1

**Exhibit 23.1**

**Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm**

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No. 333-282711 on Form S-3, Registration Statement No. 333-293282 on Form S-4, and Registration Statement Nos. 333-34145; 333-177243; 333-220235; 333-240151; 333-257358 on Form S-8 of our reports dated February 27, 2026, relating to the consolidated financial statements of OceanFirst Financial Corp. and the effectiveness of OceanFirst Financial Corp.'s internal control over financial reporting appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

February 27, 2026

## Exhibit 31.1

**Exhibit 31.1**

**CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO**

**SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002**

I, Christopher D. Maher, certify that:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| 1 | I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of OceanFirst Financial Corp.; | I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of OceanFirst Financial Corp.; |
| 2 | Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; | Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; |
| 3 | Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; | Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; |
| 4 | The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)), and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: | The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)), and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: |
|  | a. | Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; |
|  | b. | Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; |
|  | c. | Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and |
|  | d. | Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and |
| 5 | The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): | The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): |
|  | a. | All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and |
|  | b. | Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting. |

---

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Date: | February 27, 2026 | /s/ Christopher D. Maher |
| | | Christopher D. Maher |
| | | Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
| | | (principal executive officer) |

---

## Exhibit 31.2

**Exhibit 31.2**

**CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO**

**SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002**

I, Patrick S. Barrett certify that:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| 1 | I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of OceanFirst Financial Corp.; | I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of OceanFirst Financial Corp.; |
| 2 | Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; | Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; |
| 3 | Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; | Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; |
| 4 | The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)), and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: | The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)), and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: |
|  | a. | Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; |
|  | b. | Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; |
|  | c. | Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and |
|  | d. | Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and |
| 5 | The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): | The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): |
|  | a. | All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and |
|  | b. | Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting. |

---

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Date: | February 27, 2026 | /s/ Patrick S. Barrett |
| | | Patrick S. Barrett |
| | | Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
| | | (principal financial officer) |

---

## Exhibit 32.1

**Exhibit 32.1**

**CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO**

**18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350 AS ADDED BY**

**SECTION 906 OF THE**

**SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002**

In connection with the Annual Report of OceanFirst Financial Corp. (the "Company") on Form 10-K for the period ending December 31, 2025 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), the undersigned certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350, as added by §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| 1 | The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and |
| 2 | The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company as of and for the periods covered by the Report. |

---

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Christopher D. Maher |
| Christopher D. Maher |
| Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
| February 27, 2026 |

---

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Patrick S. Barrett |
| Patrick S. Barrett |
| Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
| February 27, 2026 |

---

<br>