| Key Points: – Atlantic Union Bank to acquire Sandy Spring Bancorp in a $1.6 billion all-stock deal. – The combined company will have assets of $39.2 billion and expand its reach in Virginia and Maryland. – Merger expected to close by the third quarter of 2025. |
Atlantic Union Bankshares Corporation (NYSE: AUB) has announced its agreement to acquire Sandy Spring Bancorp (Nasdaq: SASR) in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $1.6 billion. The deal will create the largest regional bank headquartered in the lower Mid-Atlantic, enhancing the combined company’s presence in key markets like Northern Virginia and Maryland.
Founded in 1868 and headquartered in Olney, Maryland, Sandy Spring Bank has $14.4 billion in assets, $11.7 billion in total deposits, and $11.5 billion in loans as of September 30, 2024. The newly combined company will have total assets of $39.2 billion, deposits of $32 billion, and loans of $29.8 billion. The merger will also allow Atlantic Union to nearly double its wealth management business by increasing assets under management by over $6.5 billion.
John C. Asbury, President and CEO of Atlantic Union, described the merger as a strategic move that fulfills a long-term vision to expand their banking presence from Baltimore through Washington D.C., Richmond, and Hampton Roads. “With today’s announcement, Atlantic Union will create a preeminent regional bank with Virginia as its linchpin,” said Asbury.
Sandy Spring Bank’s CEO, Daniel J. Schrider, echoed the enthusiasm, stating that the merger is the right long-term decision for shareholders, employees, and clients. Schrider emphasized the shared values between both organizations, particularly their commitment to community and people-first business practices.
Under the terms of the merger agreement, Sandy Spring shareholders will receive 0.900 shares of Atlantic Union common stock for each share of Sandy Spring common stock. The deal is valued at approximately $34.93 per share, reflecting an 18% premium to Sandy Spring’s closing stock price on October 18, 2024.
As part of the agreement, three members of Sandy Spring’s board of directors, including Schrider, will join the board of Atlantic Union. The merger is expected to close by the third quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals and shareholder consent.
Atlantic Union will also gain 53 additional branch locations through the merger, significantly strengthening its footprint in the Mid-Atlantic. Ron Tillett, Chairman of Atlantic Union’s Board of Directors, stated, “This combination creates a uniquely valuable franchise, enabling us to better serve our customers and communities while generating long-term shareholder value.”
The transaction has been unanimously approved by both boards of directors, and both companies plan to work closely to ensure a smooth integration process. A joint investor call is scheduled to discuss the merger and third-quarter earnings, reflecting both banks’ commitment to transparency and long-term growth.
Atlantic Union is headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, and operates 129 branches across Virginia, Maryland, and North Carolina. Sandy Spring, with over 50 locations, serves the Greater Washington D.C. area, offering a range of commercial and retail banking services.