South State Corporation Announces Merger with Park Sterling Corporation

South State (NASDAQ:SSB) and Park Sterling (NASDAQ:PSTB) have announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement.
As quoted in the press release:

Combining the two companies will create a $14.5 billion in assets franchise operating throughout the Carolinas, Virginia and Georgia.
Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Park Sterling Corporation is the holding company for Park Sterling Bank, which has over 50 branches across NC, SC, VA and GA. This opportunity will allow for a deeper and denser market presence across the Southeast, a more robust commercial business strategy, a greater presence in Charlotte and entry into the Richmond market.
“Our partnership with Park Sterling is a natural next step. We both have a common vision for building a quality regional bank in the Southeast, and this is a significant step forward in accomplishing that goal,” said Robert R. Hill, Jr., CEO South State Corporation. “We are fortunate to have two great teams that operate in dynamic markets and we are excited about the opportunities this merger creates.”
As of March 31, 2017, Park Sterling Corporation had approximately $3.3 billion in assets, $2.5 billion in deposits and $2.5 billion in loans. Upon completion of the transaction, the combined company will have approximately $14.5 billion in assets, $11.5 billion in deposits and $10.4 billion in loans.
“Our team is proud to be partnering with South State to create what we believe will come to be recognized as the preeminent regional community banking franchise in the Southeast,” said James C. Cherry, CEO of Park Sterling Corporation. “This combination will substantially fulfill our vision of truly becoming big enough to have the talent and services necessary to help customers achieve their financial aspirations while still remaining small enough and passionate enough to care that they do.”

Click here to read the full press release.