Why First Financial Bankshares Is Back On Investors’ Radar

First Financial Bankshares (FFIN) is back in focus after reporting second quarter and first half 2026 results that showed higher net interest income, net income, and earnings per share versus the prior year.

Following the earnings release, First Financial Bankshares’ share price has gained 7.8% over the past month and 17.7% year to date to US$35.32, although the 1 year total shareholder return is down 3.0% and the 5 year total shareholder return is down 18.3%. This suggests recent momentum is improving against a weaker long term record.

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After First Financial Bankshares’ recent jump and stronger recent results, the issue now is simple: lock in exposure at today’s price or wait in the hope of a cheaper entry as the valuation picture comes into focus.

Preferred P/E of 18.7x for First Financial Bankshares: Is It Justified?

On the latest figures, First Financial Bankshares trades on a P/E of 18.7x, which places the current $35.32 share price above both its industry and an estimated fair multiple.

The P/E ratio compares the company’s share price to its earnings per share and is a common way investors gauge how much they are paying for each dollar of profit.

For First Financial Bankshares, the picture is mixed. On one hand, the stock is described as good value relative to a peer group average P/E of 23.1x, suggesting the market is applying a lower earnings multiple than some comparable banks. On the other hand, the same data indicates the shares are expensive versus the broader US Banks industry average P/E of 12.3x and also above an estimated fair P/E of 13.3x. Our fair ratio work points to this as a level the market could move towards.

Result: Price-to-Earnings of 18.7x (OVERVALUED).

However, investors in First Financial Bankshares still face risks from a P/E above an estimated fair level and from potential sentiment shifts after a strong recent share price run.

Another View: SWS DCF Model Points to Upside

While the P/E of 18.7x suggests First Financial Bankshares is expensive versus a 13.3x fair ratio, the SWS DCF model presents a different picture. On that method, the stock at $35.32 sits below an estimated fair value of $46.52, implying potential upside if those cash flow assumptions hold.

That gap cuts both ways, either as an opportunity if the model holds up, or as a valuation risk if expectations are too generous. It is therefore worth considering which framework you place more weight on and why.

Simply Wall St performs a discounted cash flow (DCF) on every stock in the world every day (check out First Financial Bankshares for example). We show the entire calculation in full. You can track the result in your watchlist or portfolio and be alerted when this changes, or use our stock screener to discover 47 high quality undervalued stocks. If you save a screener we even alert you when new companies match - so you never miss a potential opportunity.

Next Steps

Optimism around First Financial Bankshares is clearly increasing. If you want to move quickly, review the data yourself and weigh both risks and rewards using the 4 key rewards.

Looking For More Ideas Beyond First Financial Bankshares?

If First Financial Bankshares has sharpened your focus on quality opportunities, do not stop here. Broaden your watchlist now so you are not reacting after the crowd.

• Target reliable income streams by scanning companies built around strong payouts and resilience using the 8 dividend fortresses.
• Spot potential mispricings early by reviewing companies that combine quality fundamentals with attractive pricing through the 47 high quality undervalued stocks.
• Protect your capital by filtering for companies that show sturdier balance sheets and fundamentals with the solid balance sheet and fundamentals stocks screener (47 results).

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.