HBT Financial, Inc. announced the execution of a definitive merger agreement with Tri-County Financial Group, Inc., under which Tri-County will merge into HBT in a transaction valued at approximately $204.6 million based on an implied purchase price of $82.89 per share. Tri-County shareholders may elect to receive 2.4589 shares of HBT common stock, $71.01 cash, or a combination thereof for each share held. The combined entity will hold approximately $8.3 billion in total assets and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and Tri-County shareholder consent. This acquisition expands HBT Financial's footprint in Illinois and surrounding regions through its community banking operations.