Independent Bank to Merge with HCB Financial

Independent Bank Corporation and HCB Financial Corp entered into a definitive merger agreement dated March 18, 2026, filed as an exhibit to an SEC 8-K. The agreement covers the merger structure, closing and effective time mechanics, and how company securities convert and are surrendered.

The filing also lays out covenants for regulatory approvals and bank consolidation, plus provisions addressing employee matters, press releases, and fairness opinion requirements.