Royce & Associates LP Increases Holdings in Business First Bancshares

In the first quarter, Royce & Associates LP acquired a new stake in Business First Bancshares, according to recent disclosure filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The investment firm purchased 120,000 shares of the company’s stock, valued at around $2,056,000. This move translated to Royce & Associates LP owning about 0.48% of Business First Bancshares, as indicated in the latest Securities & Exchange Commission filing.

Hedge Funds’ Activity in Business First Bancshares:

Several other prominent hedge funds also made notable adjustments to their positions in Business First Bancshares. Notably, American International Group Inc. expanded its holdings in the company by 4.3% during the second quarter, now owning 9,909 shares worth $211,000. Metropolitan Life Insurance Co NY increased its holdings by 44.5% during the fourth quarter, now owning 1,617 shares valued at $36,000. SG Americas Securities LLC, on the other hand, augmented its holdings by 11.2% in the first quarter, now possessing 8,892 shares valued at $152,000. First Trust Advisors LP also boosted its holdings by 9.8% in the first quarter, now holding 10,391 shares worth $253,000. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. concluded this trend by increasing its holdings by 1.9% in the first quarter, with 50,248 shares valued at $1,223,000. Collectively, hedge funds and other institutional investors now account for 41.81% of the company’s stock.

These strategic investment moves by Royce & Associates LP and other hedge funds underscore a growing interest in Business First Bancshares’ potential, highlighting their confidence in the company’s future prospects and financial growth.