The newest challenge to present itself, and the hot topic for discussion at the moment, are trade tariffs enacted by the current administration. As tariffs pertain to CRE, the most immediate impact is escalating construction costs and the potential for new supply chain disruptions contributing to overall uncertainty in the near-term.
As 2025 reaches its midpoint, Paul Spearing, Managing Director at First Bank Sponsor Finance, draws on recent interactions with private equity firms and portfolio companies to provide a candid assessment of the current M&A landscape and broader economic trends. Spearing offers his perspective in the following Q&A.
At First Bank, we’re proud of our multi-generational, family-owned, and St. Louis, MO-based heritage. As a one-stop financial resource and strategic partner for businesses across various backgrounds and industries, we proudly help clients turn challenges into opportunities.
Over time, there has been an increased focus on fiduciary responsibility. Why? Defined contribution plans, such as 401(k) plans that were originally designed to supplement traditional defined benefit pension plans or other employer-funded plans, have become the primary retirement savings vehicle for most Americans. Professionals at First Bank have extensive knowledge and experience of fiduciary issues. As such, we are in a unique position to assist plan sponsors.
First Bank is a proud sponsor of the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight (GSLHF) program. Since 2014, First Bank has partnered with the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight and the St. Louis Blues for “First Bank’s Tribute to Those Who Served.” The Greater St. Louis Honor Flight honors our veterans by providing a complimentary, all-inclusive trip to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials built to commemorate their service to our country.
At First Bank, we envision a future where our time, attention and charitable funding collectively help shape a more positive future for generations to come. First Bank is passionate about supporting educational options for all young people, but especially those from historically disadvantaged communities.
If you're considering withdrawing money from your traditional IRA or Roth IRA to help pay for college, you'll want to evaluate several factors.