MARKETPLACE: First Financial earns top rating

First Financial Bank has earned the highest overall rating of "outstanding" from the Federal Reserve Board for its performance under the Community Reinvestment Act to meet the credit needs of customers and businesses.

The top rating comes after a broad evaluation of the bank’s lending, investment and service levels from 2017-2020, specifically benefiting customers who meet income guidelines or reside in low- to moderate-income census tracts.

First Financial is ahead of schedule in reaching and surpassing the $1.7 billion goal in its Community Benefits Agreement for 2018-2022, having already achieved a loan, investment and marketing total of $1.85 billion, including $11.9 million in donations.

The agreement focuses on increasing access to banking services in the region, driving product innovation and inclusion efforts, increasing lending with low- and moderate-income borrowers and communities and increasing community engagement and investment.

For more information, visit bankatfirst.com.