- Business
- Southern BancShares (N.C.), Inc. is the holding company for Southern Bank and Trust Company, which primarily operates more than 55 branches across North Carolina and Virginia. The company offers a comprehensive range of financial products and services including commercial loans; mortgage loans encompassing one-to-four-family residential mortgages; business loans; construction loans; consumer loans; equity line loans; lease financing; checking accounts; savings accounts; Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs); and Certificate of Deposit (CD) accounts. Additionally, it provides debit and credit cards, safe deposit boxes, cashier’s checks, money orders, wire transfer services, and internet banking. Investment services offered include brokerage custodial services, insurance products, and asset management services. The company also holds, manages, and sells real estate owned properties through its wholly owned subsidiary, Tuscarora Properties, LLC.
Founded in 1901 and headquartered in Mount Olive, North Carolina, Southern BancShares operates primarily in the regional banking industry, serving consumer and business customers in Eastern North Carolina and Southeastern Virginia. The company continues to expand its geographic footprint and product offerings, having recently approved a new stock repurchase program in early 2025 to enhance shareholder value by repurchasing common and preferred shares under stipulated terms.
In recent years, Southern BancShares has focused on strategic growth through expanding into new markets and enhancing digital banking capabilities. In 2024, it made significant strides entering new markets with plans for further expansion in 2025. Additionally, Southern Bank integrates modern banking solutions with personalized client service to support financial resilience and growth for its customers. This proactive approach allows the company to effectively assist businesses facing economic uncertainties with tailored loans and treasury services, enhancing its commitment to community-focused banking.
Southern BancShares maintains a solid financial position with disciplined asset quality management and a focus on profitability and high-quality loan growth supported by client retail deposits. The company engages in both commercial and consumer banking, including specialty loans such as agricultural, industrial, land development, paycheck protection program loans, and revolving mortgages. It serves a diversified customer base across personal, business, and mortgage banking segments with a strong local community presence in North Carolina and Virginia.
Overall, Southern BancShares (N.C.), Inc. represents a well-established, regionally focused bank holding company offering a full spectrum of banking, lending, investment, and other financial services designed to meet the needs of consumers, businesses, and investors in its operating areas, supported by strategic initiatives aimed at growth and shareholder returns.