Investar Holding Corporation Announces 49th Quarterly Dividend and Continues Strong Dividend Policy

Investar Holding Corporation (Nasdaq: ISTR), the parent of Investar Bank, National Association, declared its 49th consecutive quarterly cash dividend for common shareholders at $0.11 per share. The dividend will be paid on January 30, 2026 to those recorded as of December 31, 2025.

In tandem, the company announced a quarterly dividend of $16.25 per share on its 6.5% Series A non‑cumulative perpetual convertible preferred stock. This payment represents a full quarterly distribution of 1.625 %, corresponding to the stated annual yield of 6.5 %. The preferred dividend is scheduled for January 1, 2026, with record holders as of December 15, 2025.

Dividend Consistency as a Signal of Financial Stability

Investar’s uninterrupted dividend record—49 quarters for common stock and 11 for the bank’s own dividends—underscores its robust earnings profile and disciplined capital management. The 6.5 % preferred dividend further signals the company’s confidence in maintaining a steady cash flow, providing investors with both a reliable income stream and a hedge against market volatility.

Operational Snapshot

  • Branch Network: 29 full‑time branches across Louisiana, Texas, and Alabama.
  • Employee Base: 329 full‑time equivalent staff as of September 30, 2025.
  • Balance Sheet: Total assets of $2.8 billion.

With a market cap of $267 million and a P/E ratio of 12.19, Investar sits comfortably within the mid‑cap segment of the U.S. banking sector. Its share price of $27.61 (as of December 15, 2025) sits just below the 52‑week high of $27.66, suggesting a modest upside potential while remaining well within its historical trading range.

Forward‑Looking Outlook

Investar’s dividend policy, coupled with a stable asset base and a diversified presence in three states, positions it favorably to navigate regulatory changes and economic cycles. The company’s ability to sustain dividend payments indicates a resilient business model, likely to attract income‑focused investors seeking exposure to the U.S. financial services sector.

In the coming quarter, analysts will monitor the company’s earnings releases and potential expansion of its branch network, which could further enhance deposit growth and loan portfolio diversification. As the banking landscape evolves, Investar’s consistent dividends and prudent capital allocation may serve as a benchmark for mid‑cap banking firms aiming to balance growth with shareholder returns.