Orange County Bancorp Announces Important Stock Split Date

Key Announcement from Orange County Bancorp

MIDDLETOWN, N.Y. – Orange County Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: OBT), the parent company of Orange Bank & Trust Co. and Hudson Valley Investment Advisors, Inc., has made an important announcement regarding its common stock. The company has declared a two-for-one forward stock split, setting the record date for this action on January 8, 2025. This decision comes as the U.S. equity markets will close the following day to honor the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter.

Details of the Stock Split

The upcoming stock split, designed to make shares more accessible, will provide each record holder on the designated date an additional share after the close of trading on January 10, 2025. The adjusted trading will begin on January 13, 2025. This strategic move aims to facilitate a greater participation of investors and to enhance the liquidity of shares in the market.

Impact on Shareholders

For existing shareholders, this means that their individual stake in the company will effectively double although the overall value remains unchanged immediately following the split. This practice is often viewed positively as it may attract more investors who perceive the lower price per share as a favorable entry point.

Increase in Authorized Common Stock

In conjunction with the stock split, Orange County Bancorp plans to amend its Certificate of Incorporation. The amendment will result in an increase in the authorized common stock from approximately 5.7 million shares to 11.4 million shares. Additionally, the par value of shares will be adjusted, reducing from $0.50 to $0.25 per share—a move that benefits shareholders while maintaining the company’s financial integrity.

About Orange County Bancorp, Inc.

With a heritage stretching back over 125 years, Orange County Bancorp, Inc. has committed itself to its community and clients, achieving a commendable growth to around $2.5 billion in total assets. Through its subsidiary, Orange Bank & Trust Company, it offers traditional banking services while Hudson Valley Investment Advisors, Inc. provides investment advisory services, adding value and a breadth of offerings to its clientele.

Understanding Stock Splits

Stock splits are a common corporate strategy to increase market liquidity and adjust share prices. When companies decide to split their stocks, it usually indicates a positive growth trajectory and a focus on broadening their investor base. It is a way to make shares more affordable to a wider range of investors without altering the overall market capitalization of the company.

The Strategic Importance

For investors, understanding the implications of a stock split is essential. It may signal a company's strength or potential for future growth. Shareholders should consider both the motivations behind share splits and their potential impact on investment strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a stock split?

A stock split is a corporate action that increases the number of shares outstanding by reducing the par value or share price while keeping the overall market capitalization the same.

Why did Orange County Bancorp announce a stock split?

To enhance liquidity and accessibility for investors, making shares more affordable by reducing the price per share.

When will the stock split take effect?

The stock split will be effective for shareholders on January 8, 2025, with trading to begin on a split-adjusted basis on January 13, 2025.

What will be the new par value of the shares?

The par value per share will decrease from $0.50 to $0.25 as part of the stock split process.

How does a stock split affect existing shareholders?

Shareholders will receive additional shares, effectively doubling their holdings, while the total value of their investment remains unchanged immediately following the split.

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