By Jackie Stewart, American Banker magazine Published September 26 2017, 2∶29pm EDT First Reliance Bancshares in Florence, S.C., has agreed to buy Independence Bancshares in Greenville, S.C. The $435 million-asset First Reliance said in a press release Monday that it will pay about $11 million in cash for the $90 million-asset Independence. The deal is expected to close in the first quarter.  First Reliance also announced that it had raised $25.1 million from a private placement of common and nonvoting preferred stock to various investors. The funds will help pay for the acquisition. First Reliance, led by CEO Rick Saunders, is set to expand into Greenville, S.C., with its latest acquisition. "The capital raise will support the bank's simultaneously announced acquisition of Independence and expand the company's footprint into the highly attractive” Greenville, S.C., market, Rick Saunders, First Reliance’s president and CEO, said in the release. “Independence is one of ...

Financial hardship can strike anyone. Whether it’s a series of bad decisions, an unforeseen misfortune, or a combination of the two, it’s easy for even the most fiscally responsible person to run into financial problems. Getting back on track can take time, and staying on the right track requires the right habits. Here are some strategies you can use to bounce back from financial hardships. Understanding Your Available Banking Options Different people have different needs when it comes to banking. Some people may find that their current needs require special banking programs. Institutions like First Reliance Bank provide various options to help people from all walks of life handle their finances in a responsible matter. Whether it’s a business owner who wants to take a better approach to the company’s financial resources or an individual who needs more money, having the right program is important. Get Answers to Important Financial ...

September 25, 2017, Florence, S.C. – First Reliance Bank recently announced they have entered into an agreement to acquire Independence National Bank a locally-owned community bank headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina which has approximately $90.0 million in assets, $76.1 million in deposits and three branch locations. The acquisition is expected to close early in the first quarter of 2018. “We are a community bank buying a community bank with the goal to continue delivering the community banking model of developing strong relationships with our customers and providing an incredible experience.  We are passionate about our purpose ‘to make the lives of our customers better’.  We believe that if you achieve delivering your purpose and treat customers right, then financial results will follow.” said Rick Saunders, President and CEO. “We welcome our new customers and associates created by this merger and look forward to serving them with excellent customer service our ...