Merger & Acquisition Employee Reference Center
Everything You Need to Know — All in One Place
Welcome to your central hub for information about our two banks coming together. We're incredibly excited about this partnership between First State Bank & Trust and Senath State Bank. This page is your go-to resource for accurate, up-to-date information to help you navigate this transition smoothly.
We are one team, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
Welcome Video from Matt Drake
Join Matt Drake, Chairman and CEO, as he introduces key principles of our shared culture and service standards, and learn how we can align as one cohesive team.
Timeline
August 7, 2026
At the close of business, the transition from SSB to FSBT will begin.
August 8, 2026
Our Kennett Branch will be closed on Saturday, August 8, to allow the transition process to be completed.
August 10, 2026
By Monday, August 10, the operating system conversion will be complete, and Senath State Bank will officially become First State Bank & Trust Co., Inc.
Who Is FSBT?
For more than 90 years, First State Bank & Trust Co., Inc. has partnered with Southeast Missouri residents to help our neighbors achieve their financial goals. We are a locally owned, independent community bank with local management at each of our seven branch locations: Caruthersville, Charleston, Dexter, Hayti, Matthews, Portageville, and Sikeston.
What makes us different? One of the largest shareholders of our holding company is the First State Bancorp Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)—that means the employees. This unique ownership structure means our team members are personally invested in your success and the long-term strength of this institution. When you succeed, we succeed.
Recently, FSBT was honored to be featured in "Forbes & Fortune" celebrating 90 years of service to the communities we serve. This article highlights nearly a century of steady leadership, community engagement, and employee commitment — qualities that shape how we work today. For FSBT and Senath State Bank employees alike, it's a reminder that this transition is grounded in shared values, not just expansion. Together, we're part of an organization focused on long-term impact, local relationships, and doing what's right for our communities.
Welcome to the FSBT Family!
At FSBT, our greatest asset has always been our people — and we are absolutely thrilled to welcome the talented team at Senath State Bank into the fold! We are so excited to have you with us, and we can't wait to see what we accomplish together. Welcome to the FSBT family!
Click to view the customer-facing page created to keep them informed and reassured every step of the way:
View Customer Page →Customer Frequently Asked Questions
Customer Asks: "So, what does this mean for me? Do I have to do anything?"
Your Answer: There are no immediate changes to your accounts, and you don't need to do anything at all.
No action is required on your part.
This change is not expected to disrupt your banking experience. Your account number is expected to remain the same. If a change is needed, someone will contact you directly.
After reviewing other products offered by FSBT, if you would like to switch to a different account, we will be happy to assist you.
Customer Asks: "Will my debit card and checks still work?"
Your Answer: Yes, you can continue using your current debit card and checks without any interruption.
You may continue using your current checks until it is time to reorder.
Customer Asks: "Do I need to re-download the app or get a new online banking password?"
Your Answer: You will need to download the FSBT 1View Banking App in your App Store.
Customer Asks: "Are you closing this branch? Are you all going to lose your jobs?"
Your Answer: Our branch is staying open with the same hours, and you'll keep seeing the same familiar team here to help you.
Customer Asks: "What about my Social Security deposit and my automatic bill payments?"
Your Answer: All your automatic deposits and payments will continue to process exactly as they always have.
Customer Asks: "Does this change my loan rate or my mortgage payment?"
Your Answer: No, the terms and conditions of your existing loans will remain exactly the same.
Customer Asks: "Will my account number change? Are my fees going up?"
Your Answer: Your account number will not change at this time, and we promise to give you plenty of advance notice before any changes are made.
Customer Asks: "Where can I find out more about what's happening?"
Your Answer: We have a welcome page with a short video and more answers to common questions.
How to Handle Tough Questions
When a customer is concerned, your calm confidence makes all the difference. Remember this simple, three-step approach:
Acknowledge & Empathize
Start by showing you hear their concern.
Answer Simply
Use the approved answers from the FAQ section above. Keep it short and clear.
Offer Help
Reassure them and let them know where to find more information.
Escalation Path & Key Contacts
If you can't answer a question or need backup, here's who to contact:
- Your Branch Manager For immediate customer concerns or operational questions.
- Loan Officers For all questions related to specific loans or mortgages.
- IT Help Desk For technical issues with software, hardware, or online banking access, call (573)-333-1700.
Thank you for everything you do. You are key to making this a successful and positive experience for our customers. We are building a one-bank family, and we couldn't be more excited to have you as part of it.