CEO Message – January 2026

As we enter our 61^st year of service, we are extremely thankful for the opportunities to serve our members and communities as we continue to enhance and improve our services and physically expand into new market areas. More importantly, I have highlighted some tangible evidence of the impact we have had on our communities and members as we strive to fulfill our vision of “Empowering Lives and enriching the financial well-being of our communities” below:

• $300k in donations and community support to over 185 local organizations
• 4,875 hours of community volunteerism
• Over $23 million in dividends distributed to members

From a financial performance perspective, 2025 was a fantastic year by any measure. Assets grew by over 9%, surpassing the $1.3 billion-mark, member deposits increased by over an amazing $100 million (10%), while loans grew approximately 7%, even in the face of continued higher interest rates and overall economic uncertainty. It is important to note that these growth rates are a result of the trust that you, our members, place in Patriot – trust that we are so very grateful to have established.

In addition to the financial performance, Patriot had many high-impact accomplishments in 2025, not the least of which was the opening of two new branch locations in September (Spring Mills, WV) and October (Greencastle, PA). At a time when other financial institutions are closing branches and abandoning communities, Patriot is growing, expanding, and serving the needs of those who need it the most – what a proud moment that is for all of us! We also deployed a new Phone System and Document Management system to create efficiencies that enable and empower our employees to better serve the needs of YOU, our valued members. We also reimagined our ATM network to ensure that we are properly serving the needs of our members and communities.

As for the 2026 economic forecast, we continue to closely monitor the policy actions of the Federal Reserve’s Open Market Committee (FOMC). The committee was somewhat active in 2025, and we anticipate a similar, measured approach as the committee attempts to balance their dual mandate of maximum employment and stable prices (inflation). Some progress has been made to date, but both prices and interest rates remain high, placing additional stress on consumers’ budgets. The days of sub-4% mortgages are likely behind us, and it remains to be seen what the “new normal” becomes. With inflation remaining a concern, the committee (and consumers) has their work cut out for them and it will be interesting to see what external forces impact policy in 2026. Regardless, Patriot is here to help our members weather any storm and, as always, serve in your best interest.

Speaking of 2026, it will be another exciting year at Patriot and for you, our valued members. Early in the year we expect to break ground for our next branch location at Butler’s Crossing in Inwood, West Virginia. This will be our second (of several) branch locations in the Eastern Panhandle region where we believe Patriot can serve the needs of these communities and bring Patriot value (and values) to the community. We will also be enhancing our digital experience, upgrading our bill pay offering early in 2026, implementing a Payment Portal for ease of payment, and enhancing our Online Banking/Mobile App functions closer to mid-year. Investing in both branch locations and technology ensures that Patriot remains relevant across all generations and further advances our commitment to delivering the highest quality services and experiences. We have also partnered with Ameriprise to offer investment and wealth management services through Patriot Investment Services and are excited to offer those services as part of the overall Patriot experience. And we’ve also reimagined our mortgage department to provide strong products and services, but more importantly sound advice for current and future homebuyers.

Finally, as competitors come and go, offering commoditized products, Patriot remains strong and, while focused on delivering the products and services that meet your needs, we also remain committed to that vision and purpose of “Empowering lives and enriching the economic well-being of our communities”. Simply put, it means that we are more than just a financial institution, but a true partner that cares about not just your finances, but your overall well-being. On behalf of our Board of Directors and staff and some 230 amazing team members, I am grateful and honored to serve some 80,000 members every day and look forward to a bright future – together!

Ron Celaschi

CEO – Patriot Federal Credit Union