First Hawaiian Appoints Tertia Freas: Strengthening Leadership

First Hawaiian Welcomes Tertia Freas to Its Board

First Hawaiian, Inc. (NASDAQ: FHB), the leading parent company of First Hawaiian Bank, has exciting news to share as it announces the recent appointment of Tertia Freas to its Board of Directors. This marks a significant milestone that underscores the bank's commitment to bolstering its leadership and governance.

Tertia Freas, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in public accounting, will also lend her expertise to the Board's Audit Committee. Her appointment is not just a fill-in; it’s a strategic move that promises to enhance the collective acumen of the board, aligning with First Hawaiian's values and long-term objectives.

A Wealth of Experience

Tertia is well-respected in the field, currently serving as the executive director of The Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation, which has made significant philanthropic contributions in the region. Previously, she had a successful career with Deloitte & Touche LLP, where she took on various leadership roles, most notably as an audit partner. Such a solid background in accounting and finance reflects a deep understanding of the complexities in corporate governance.

Bob Harrison, who is the Chairman, President, and CEO of First Hawaiian, has expressed strong confidence in Freas’s capabilities. He believes that her experience and community-oriented approach will be invaluable as the bank continues to navigate its growth trajectory across Hawaii and neighboring locales.

First Hawaiian Bank: A Legacy of Service

First Hawaiian Bank, established in 1858, takes pride in being Hawaii's first and largest financial institution, serving a diverse clientele through a wide range of banking services. With branches spanning Hawaii, Guam, and Saipan, the bank has consistently innovated to offer modern digital banking solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers.

Freas's recent addition to the board is a testament to the organization's ongoing commitment to excellence in leadership and the strategic foresight required for effective corporate governance. This makes it a vital part of the bank's future endeavors to enhance customer service and operational efficiency.

Recent Financial Developments

Recently, First Hawaiian has caught the attention of investors due to some impressive financial results. The bank reported a net income of $54.3 million for the first quarter of 2024, showcasing robust financial health, primarily driven by a significant increase in net interest income and optimized balance sheet strategies.

Piper Sandler, an esteemed financial service provider, has revised its outlook for First Hawaiian after analyzing the bank's Q2 results. They’ve raised the price target for the bank’s shares from $22 to $27, while keeping a Neutral rating in place. Although the margin outlook has tempered expectations slightly, the estimated earnings per share for 2024 has risen to $1.78, suggesting a brightening outlook.

Moreover, First Hawaiian’s quarterly performance revealed a flourishing local economy with good loan production, indicating that the bank is well-positioned to take advantage of growth opportunities. The institution anticipates a low-single-digit growth in lending for the entire year and is also preparing to resume its share buyback program, demonstrating confidence in its financial strategy.

InvestingPro Insights on First Hawaiian

The addition of Tertia Freas to the Board is particularly noteworthy given First Hawaiian's current financial standing. Recent data shows that the company's market cap stands at approximately $3.09 billion, with a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.95, marking an attractive valuation when compared to its peers.

Highlighting the strength of First Hawaiian, it has successfully maintained dividend payments for nine consecutive years, emphasizing its commitment to creating shareholder value. This reliable performance is likely to appeal particularly to income-focused investors, reflecting the bank's solid financial foundation.

Another noteworthy indicator is that analysts predict profitability for the company this year, supported by its historical financial stability. This optimistic outlook can help reinforce the bank's strategic direction as it enhances its governance measures, including Freas’s recent appointment.

The dividend yield is reported at 4.4%, further drawing interest from those seeking income in today’s market environment. Coupled with its rich history in Hawaii and expanding presence in Guam and Saipan, First Hawaiian is establishing itself as a stable investment option within the regional banking sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Tertia Freas?

Tertia Freas is a seasoned professional with over 30 years in public accounting, recently appointed to the Board of Directors of First Hawaiian, Inc.

What role does Tertia Freas hold at First Hawaiian?

She will serve on the Board of Directors and the Board's Audit Committee, bringing valuable expertise to the organization.

What is First Hawaiian Bank's financial status?

First Hawaiian has shown impressive financial health, reporting a net income of $54.3 million for Q1 of 2024, with a positive outlook ahead.

How long has First Hawaiian been operational?

First Hawaiian Bank has a remarkable history, established in 1858, making it the oldest and largest financial institution in Hawaii.

What is the company's dividend yield?

The current dividend yield for First Hawaiian stands at 4.4%, appealing to investors looking for income in a fluctuating market.

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