Southstate Bank's Business Segments

South State Corporation (formerly First Financial Holdings, Inc. (from July 26, 2013 through June 29, 2014) and SCBT Financial Corporation (from February 20, 2004 through July 25, 2013)), headquartered in Columbia, South Carolina, is a bank holding company incorporated in 1985 under the laws of South Carolina. We provide a wide range of banking services and products to our customers through our wholly-owned bank subsidiary, South State Bank (formerly SCBT) (the “Bank”), a South Carolina-chartered commercial bank that opened for business in 1934. The Bank operates Minis & Co., Inc. and First Southeast 401k Fiduciaries, both wholly owned registered investment advisors, and First Southeast Investor Services, a wholly-owned limited service broker-dealer. We do not engage in any significant operations other than the ownership of our banking subsidiary.

SouthState Corporation, through its subsidiary, offers a comprehensive portfolio of financial products and services targeted primarily at individuals and businesses across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. The organizations extensive range of offerings can be categorized into several key segments:

1. Depository Services
SouthState provides a suite of deposit accounts tailored to meet the needs of both personal and business customers. This includes:

- Demand Deposits: Checking accounts designed for everyday transactions, which may come with features such as online banking, mobile access, and debit card facilities.
- Time Deposits: Certificates of Deposit (CDs) that offer customers a fixed interest rate in exchange for keeping their funds in the account for a specified term.
- Savings Accounts: Traditional savings accounts that allow individuals to earn interest while keeping funds accessible. These accounts are designed for personal savings goals.

Lending Services
The lending segment represents a significant portion of SouthState’s offerings, catering to various financing needs:

- Consumer Lending: Personal loans, auto loans, and home equity lines of credit (HELOC) designed to meet individual financing needs, whether for education, emergencies, or major purchases.
- Commercial Lending: Loans provided to businesses, which may include commercial real estate financing, lines of credit, and equipment financing, aimed at supporting business growth and operations.
- Mortgage Lending: SouthState offers mortgage services for purchasing homes or refinancing existing mortgages, including conventional loans, FHA and VA loans, and other specialized mortgage products.
- Credit Card Services: The company also provides credit card products that cater to varying customer needs, including rewards programs and competitive interest rates.

Wealth Management and Trust Services
In addition to traditional banking services, SouthState features a robust wealth management division aimed at individuals and institutional clients:

- Investment Management: This includes portfolio management and investment advisory services designed to help clients achieve their financial goals through strategically managed investment options.
- Financial Planning: SouthState offers personalized financial planning services, helping clients with retirement planning, estate planning, tax strategies, and college savings.
- Trust Services: The trust department manages trusts and estates, providing fiduciary services to ensure the proper management and distribution of assets in accordance with client wishes.

ATM and Payment Processing
SouthState also controls and operates a network of ATMs, allowing customers to access their accounts, make withdrawals, and conduct various transactions conveniently. In addition, the bank provides payment processing solutions that enable businesses to streamline their payment acceptance methods, including merchant services.

Insurance Products
The organization offers a selection of insurance products, which may include life insurance, health insurance, and property insurance, aiming to provide comprehensive coverage options for clients needs.

Digital Banking Services
Recognizing the evolving landscape of finance, SouthState has embraced digital transformation by providing a range of online banking services. These include mobile banking applications, online account management, bill payment, and secure fund transfer services, ensuring that clients can manage their finances anytime and anywhere.

Organizational Structure and Management
SouthState Corporation operates as a consolidated entity where the various services are integrated into a single banking and finance operation. This means that while the company offers a variety of financial products and services, management evaluates the performance on an organization-wide level rather than by individual segments. This unified approach allows for streamlined operations, consistent customer service, and an overarching strategic focus on enhancing the financial health and wellbeing of both personal and commercial clients across the regions it serves.

By continually monitoring and adapting its offerings based on customer needs and market dynamics, SouthState Corporation positions itself as a comprehensive financial partner for individuals and businesses alike in its operating regions.