UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, DC 20549

 

FORM 10-K

 

(Mark One)

xANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016

 

OR

 

¨TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from                to              

 

Commission File No. 001-36094

 

The Community Financial Corporation

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Maryland   52-1652138
(State of other jurisdiction of   (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)   Identification No.)

 

3035 Leonardtown Road, Waldorf, Maryland   20601
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (301) 645-5601

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class   Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share   The NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ¨   No x

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ¨   No x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x   No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x   No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

Large Accelerated Filer  ¨   Accelerated Filer  x
Non-Accelerated Filer  ¨   Smaller Reporting Company  ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.) Yes ¨   No x

 

The aggregate market value of voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $84.9 million based on the closing price $22.14 per share at which the common stock was sold on the last business day of the Company’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter.  For purposes of this calculation only, the shares held by directors, executive officers and the Company’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan of the registrant are deemed to be shares held by affiliates.

 

Number of shares of common stock outstanding as of March 6, 2017: 4,640,974

 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

 

Portions of the Proxy Statement for the 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. (Part III)

 

   

 

 

INDEX

 

  Page
   
Part I  
   
Item 1.  Business 1
Supervision and Regulation 19
Management 23
Item 1A.   Risk Factors 25
Item 1B.   Unresolved Staff Comments 35
Item 2.   Properties 35
Item 3.  Legal Proceedings 35
Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures 35
   
Part II  
   
Item 5 - Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 36
Item 6 - Selected Financial Data 39
Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 41
Item 8 - Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 70
Item 9.  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 131
Item 9A.  Controls and Procedures 131
Item 9B.   Other Information 131
   
Part III  
   
Item 10.  Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 131
Item 11.  Executive Compensation 132
Item 12.  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 132
Item 13.  Certain Relationships, Related Transactions and Director Independence 133
Item 14.  Principal Accountant Fees and Services 133
   
Part IV  
   
Item 15.  Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 133

 

   

 

 

PART I

 

This report contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements are not historical facts, rather statements based on The Community Financial Corporation’s current expectations regarding its business strategies, intended results and future performance. Forward-looking statements are preceded by terms such as “expects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “intends” and similar expressions.

 

Management’s ability to predict results or the effect of future plans or strategies is inherently uncertain. Factors that could affect actual results include interest rate trends, the general economic climate in the market area in which The Community Financial Corporation operates, as well as nationwide, The Community Financial Corporation’s ability to control costs and expenses, competitive products and pricing, changes in accounting principles, loan demand, loan delinquency rates, charge-offs, changes in federal and state legislation and regulation and effectively manage the risks the Company faces, including credit, operational and cyber security risks. These factors should be considered in evaluating the forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. The Community Financial Corporation assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement after the date of the statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.

 

Item 1.  Business

 

Business

 

The Community Financial Corporation (the “Company’) is a bank holding company organized in 1989 under the laws of the State of Maryland. It owns all the outstanding shares of capital stock of Community Bank of the Chesapeake (the “Bank”), a Maryland-chartered commercial bank. The Bank was organized in 1950 as Tri-County Building and Loan Association of Waldorf, a mutual savings and loan association, and in 1986 converted to a federal stock savings bank and adopted the name Tri-County Federal Savings Bank. In 1997, the Bank converted to a Maryland-chartered commercial bank and adopted the name Community Bank of Tri-County. Effective October 18, 2013, Community Bank changed its name to become Community Bank of the Chesapeake.

 

The Company engages in no significant activity other than holding the stock of the Bank and operating the business of the Bank. Accordingly, the information set forth in this 10-K, including financial statements and related data, relates primarily to the Bank and its subsidiaries.

 

The Bank maintains its main office and operations center in Waldorf, Maryland, in addition to its branch offices in Lexington Park, Leonardtown, La Plata, Dunkirk, Bryans Road, Waldorf, Charlotte Hall, Prince Frederick and Lusby, Maryland; and Central Park and downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia. During the third quarter of 2015, the Company agreed to sell its King George, Virginia branch building and equipment and the transaction closed on January 28, 2016. In addition, the Bank maintains five loan production offices (“LPOs”) in La Plata, Prince Frederick, Leonardtown and Annapolis, Maryland and Central Park in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The Leonardtown and Central Park LPOs are co-located with branches. The Annapolis LPO opened in October 2014.

 

The Bank operates 16 automated teller machines including four stand-alone locations. The Bank offers telephone and internet banking services. The Bank is engaged in the commercial and retail banking business as authorized by the banking statutes of the States of Maryland and Virginia and applicable federal regulations, including the acceptance of deposits, and the origination of loans to individuals, associations, partnerships and corporations. The Bank’s real estate portfolio consists of commercial mortgage loans, residential first and second mortgage loans and home equity lines of credit. Commercial lending consists of both secured and unsecured loans. The Bank’s deposits are insured up to applicable limits by the Deposit Insurance Fund administered by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”), the Bank’s primary federal regulator.

 

Market Area

The Bank considers its principal lending and deposit market area to consist of the tri-county area in Southern Maryland and the greater Fredericksburg market in Virginia. As a result of the Bank’s expansion into the greater Fredericksburg market in 2013, Stafford County has become part of the Bank’s principal lending and deposit market area. The Annapolis LPO opening in October 2014 provided additional market expansion opportunities in 2015. Our market area is one of the fastest growing regions in the country and is home to a mix of federal facilities, industrial and high-tech businesses.

 

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The presence of several major federal facilities located within the Bank’s footprint and in adjoining counties contribute to economic growth. Major federal facilities include the Patuxent River Naval Air Station in St. Mary’s County, the Indian Head Division, Naval Surface Warfare Center in Charles County and the Naval Surface Warfare –Naval Support Facility in King George County. In addition, there are several major federal facilities located in adjoining markets including Andrews Air Force Base and Defense Intelligence Agency & Defense Intelligence Analysis Center in Prince Georges County, Maryland and the U.S. Marine Base Quantico, Drug Enforcement Administration Quantico facility and Federal Bureau of Investigation Quantico facility in Prince William County, Virginia. These facilities directly employ thousands of local employees and serve as an important player in the region’s overall economic health.

 

The economic health of the region, while stabilized by the influence of the federal government, is not solely dependent on this sector. Calvert County is home to the Dominion Power Cove Point Liquid Natural Gas Terminal, which is one of the nation’s largest liquefied natural gas terminals and Dominion Power is currently constructing liquefaction facilities for exporting liquefied natural gas. Based on information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, unemployment rates in the Company’s footprint have historically remained well below the national average.

 

The Bank expanded into the greater Fredericksburg, Virginia market in August 2013. According to the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance, the Fredericksburg Region, including the City of Fredericksburg and the counties of Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania, and Stafford, Virginia, has been the fastest growing region in the Commonwealth of Virginia for the last five years.

 

The Bank’s primary market areas also boast a strong median household income. According to SNL Financial, the median household income in 2016 was between $87,000 and $88,500 in our market areas compared to slightly less than $56,000 for the United States. According to SNL Financial, the Bank’s market areas have strong demographics with below average unemployment rates. The Bank’s primary market areas have unemployment rates below 3.9% with projected population growth in excess of 4.5% over the next five years.

 

Competition

The Bank faces strong competition in the attraction of deposits and in the origination of loans. Its most direct competition for deposits and loans comes from other banks, savings and loan associations and federal and state credit unions located in its primary market area. There are more than 25 FDIC-insured depository institutions operating in the Bank’s footprint including subsidiaries of several large regional and national bank holding companies. The Bank also faces additional significant competition for customers’ funds from mutual funds, brokerage firms, online Banks, and other financial service companies. The Bank competes for loans by providing competitive rates and flexibility of terms and service, including customer access to senior decision makers. It competes for deposits by offering depositors a wide variety of account types, convenient office locations and competitive rates. Other services offered include tax deferred retirement programs, brokerage services through an affiliation with Community Wealth Advisors, cash management services and safe deposit boxes. The Bank has used targeted direct mail, print and online advertising and community outreach to increase its market share of deposits, loans and other services in its market area. It provides ongoing training for its staff in an attempt to ensure high-quality service.

 

Lending Activities

General

The Bank offers a wide variety of real estate and commercial loans. The Bank’s lending activities include commercial real estate loans, loans secured by residential rental property, construction loans, land acquisition and development loans, equipment financing, commercial and consumer loans. The Company exited the origination of owner-occupied residential mortgages in April 2015 and has established third party sources to supply its residential whole loan portfolio. Most of the Bank’s customers are residents of or businesses located in the Bank’s market area. The Bank’s primary targets for commercial loans consist of small and medium-sized businesses with revenues of $5.0 million to $35.0 million as well as local municipal agencies and not-for-profits in Southern Maryland, the Annapolis area of Maryland and the greater Fredericksburg area of Virginia.

 

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Commercial Real Estate (CRE) and Other Non-Residential Real Estate Loans

The permanent financing of commercial and other improved real estate projects, including office buildings, retail locations, churches, and other special purpose buildings, is the largest component of the Bank’s loan portfolio. Commercial real estate loans amounted to $667.1 million or 61.3% of the loan portfolio and $538.9 million or 58.6% of the loan portfolio, respectively at December 31, 2016 and 2015. This portfolio has increased in both absolute size and as a percentage of the loan portfolio in each of the last five years. The CRE portfolio includes commercial construction balances. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, commercial construction balances were 9.3% and 6.1% of the CRE portfolio.

 

The primary security on a commercial real estate loan is the real property and the leases or businesses that produce income for the real property. The Bank generally limits its exposure to a single borrower to 15% of the Bank’s capital and participates with other lenders on larger projects. Loans secured by commercial real estate are generally limited to 80% of the lower of the appraised value or sales price and have an initial contractual loan amortization period ranging from three to 20 years. Interest rates and payments on these loans typically adjust after an initial fixed-rate period, which is generally between three and ten years. Interest rates and payments on adjustable-rate loans are adjusted to a rate based on the United States Treasury Bill Index. Almost all of the Bank’s commercial real estate loans are secured by real estate located in the Bank’s primary market area. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the largest outstanding commercial real estate loans were $12.8 million and $9.7 million, respectively, which were secured by commercial real estate and performing according to its terms.

 

Loans secured by commercial real estate are larger and involve greater risks than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. Because payments on loans secured by such properties are often dependent on the successful operation or management of the properties, repayment of such loans may be subject to a greater extent to adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy. As a result of the greater emphasis that the Bank places on increasing its portfolio of commercial real estate loans, the Bank is increasingly exposed to the risks posed by this type of lending. To monitor cash flows on income properties, the Bank requires borrowers and loan guarantors, if any, to provide annual financial statements on multi-family or commercial real estate loans. In reaching a decision on whether to make a multi-family or commercial real estate loan, the Bank considers the net operating income of the property, the borrower’s expertise, credit history and profitability, and the value of the underlying property, as well as the borrower’s global cash flows.

 

If a determination is made that there is a potential environmental hazard, the Bank will complete an Environmental Assessment Checklist. If this checklist or the appraisal indicates potential issues, a Phase 1 environmental survey will generally be required.

 

Residential First Mortgage Loans

Residential first mortgage loans are generally long-term loans, amortized on a monthly or bi-weekly basis, with principal and interest due each payment. These loans are secured by owner-occupied single-family homes. The initial contractual loan payment period for residential loans typically ranges from ten to 30 years. The Bank’s experience indicates that residential real estate loans remain outstanding for significantly shorter time periods than their contractual terms. Borrowers may refinance or prepay loans at their option, without penalty.

 

The Company stopped underwriting owner-occupied residential first mortgages in April 2015 and established third party sources to fund its residential whole loan portfolio. The third party sources allow the Company to maintain a well-diversified residential portfolio while addressing the credit needs of the communities in its footprint. The Bank’s practice has been to purchase individual residential first mortgage loans as well as purchase the right to service the loans acquired.

 

Total fixed-rate loans in our residential first mortgage portfolio amounted to $125.4 million and $112.5 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2016 and 2015. Fixed-rate loans may be packaged and sold to investors or retained in the Bank’s loan portfolio. The Bank generally retains the right to service loans sold for a payment based upon a percentage (generally 0.25% of the outstanding loan balance). As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank serviced $52.0 million and $63.0 million, respectively, in residential mortgage loans for others.

 

Adjustable mortgages are generally adjustable on a one-, three- and five-year terms with limitations on upward adjustments per re-pricing period and an upward cap over the life of the loan. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank had $45.6 million and $18.9 million, respectively, in adjustable-rate residential mortgage loans. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the largest outstanding residential first mortgage loans were $2.2 million and $2.0 million, respectively, which were secured by residences located in the Bank’s market area. The loans were performing according to terms.

 

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Residential first mortgage loans with loan-to-value ratios in excess of 80% generally carry private mortgage insurance to lower the Bank’s exposure to approximately 80% of the value of the property. The Bank had fewer than 10 loans with private mortgage insurance at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

All improved real estate that serves as security for a loan made by the Bank must be insured, in the amount and by such companies as may be approved by the Bank, against fire, vandalism, malicious mischief and other hazards. Such insurance must be maintained through the entire term of the loan and in an amount not less than that amount necessary to pay the Bank’s indebtedness in full.

 

Longer-term fixed-rate and adjustable-rate residential mortgage loans are subject to greater interest-rate risk due to term and annual and lifetime limitations on interest rate adjustments that limit the increases in interest rates on these loans. There are also credit risks resulting from potential increased costs to the borrower as a result of repricing of adjustable-rate mortgage loans. During periods of rising interest rates, the risk of default on adjustable-rate mortgage loans may increase due to the upward adjustment of interest cost to the borrower.

 

Residential Rentals

Residential rental mortgage loans are amortizing, with principal and interest due each month. These loans are non-owner occupied and secured by income-producing 1-4 family units and apartments. The Bank originates both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate residential rental first mortgages. Loans secured by residential rental properties are generally limited to 80% of the lower of the appraised value or sales price at origination and have an initial contractual loan payment period ranging from three to 20 years. The primary security on a residential rental loan is the property and the leases that produce income.

 

Total fixed-rate loans in our residential rental first mortgage portfolio amounted to $17.9 million and $17.3 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2016 and 2015. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank had $83.9 million and $75.9 million, respectively, in adjustable-rate residential rental mortgage loans. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, $84.9 million and $80.8 million, respectively, were 1-4 family units and $17.0 million and $12.4 million, respectively, were apartment buildings.

 

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the largest outstanding residential rental mortgage loan was $10.5 million and $10.8 million, respectively, which was secured by over 120 single family homes located in the Bank’s market area. The loan was performing according to its terms at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

Loans secured by residential rental properties involve greater risks than 1-4 family residential mortgage loans. Although, there are similar risk characteristics shared with commercial real estate loans, the balances for the loans secured by residential rental properties are generally smaller. Because payments on loans secured by residential rental properties are often dependent on the successful operation or management of the properties, repayment of these loans may be subject to a greater extent to adverse conditions in the rental real estate market or the economy than similar owner occupied properties.

 

Construction and Land Development Loans

The Bank offers construction loans for the construction of one- to four-family dwellings to home builders. Construction loans totaled $12.1 million and $14.1 million, respectively, at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Generally, these loans are secured by the real estate under construction as well as by guarantees of the principals involved. Draws are made upon satisfactory completion of predefined stages of construction. The Bank will typically lend up to 80% of the lower of appraised value or the contract purchase price of the homes to be constructed. In addition, the Bank offers loans to acquire and develop land, as well as loans on undeveloped, subdivided lots for home building by individuals. Land acquisition and development loans totaled $24.9 million and $22.1 million, respectively, at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Bank policy requires that zoning and permits must be in place prior to making development loans. The Bank will typically lend up to the lower of 75% of the appraised value or cost. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the largest outstanding construction and land development loan was $4.9 million, which was secured by land in the Bank’s market area.

 

The Bank’s ability to originate residential construction and development loans is heavily dependent on the continued demand for single-family housing construction in the Bank’s market area. The Bank’s investment in these loans has declined in recent years. Construction and land development loans as a percentage of the total loan portfolio have been decreasing since 2008 from greater than 10% as of December 31, 2008 to 3.4% at December 31, 2016. If the demand for new houses being built from smaller builders in the Bank’s market areas continues to decline, this portion of the loan portfolio may continue to decline. In addition, a decline in demand for new housing might adversely affect the ability of borrowers to repay these loans.

 

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Construction and land development loans are inherently riskier than providing financing on owner-occupied real estate. The Bank’s risk of loss is affected by the accuracy of the initial estimate of the market value of the completed project as well as the accuracy of the cost estimates made to complete the project. In addition, the volatility of the real estate market has made it increasingly difficult to ensure that the valuation of land associated with these loans is accurate. During the construction phase, a number of factors could result in delays and cost overruns. If the estimate of construction costs proves to be inaccurate, the Bank may be required to advance funds beyond the amount originally committed to permit completion of the development. If the estimate of value proves to be inaccurate, the Bank may be confronted, at or before the maturity of the loan, with a project having a value that is insufficient to assure full repayment. As a result of these factors, construction lending often involves the disbursement of substantial funds with repayment dependent, in part, on the success of the project rather than the ability of the borrower or guarantor to repay principal and interest. If the Bank forecloses on a project, the Bank may not be able to recover all of the unpaid balance of, and accrued interest on, the loan as well as related foreclosure and holding costs.

 

Home Equity and Second Mortgage Loans

The Bank maintains a portfolio of home equity and second mortgage loans. Home equity loans, which totaled $19.7 million and $19.5 million, respectively at December 31, 2016 and 2015, are generally made in the form of lines of credit with minimum amounts of $5,000, have terms of up to 20 years, variable rates priced at the then current Wall Street Journal prime rate plus a margin, and require an 80% or 90% loan-to-value ratio (including any prior liens), depending on the specific loan program. Second mortgage loans, which totaled $1.7 million and $2.2 million, respectively at December 31, 2016 and 2015, are fixed or variable-rate loans that have original terms between five and 15 years. These products contain a higher risk of default than residential first mortgages as in the event of foreclosure, the first mortgage would need to be paid off prior to collection of the second mortgage. This risk has been heightened as the market value of residential property has declined.

 

Commercial Loans

The Bank offers commercial loans to its business customers. The Bank offers a variety of commercial loan products including term loans and lines of credit. The portfolio consists primarily of demand loans and lines of credit. Such loans can be made for terms of up to five years. However, most of the loans are originated for a term of two years or less. The Bank offers both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate loans (typically tied to the then current Wall Street Journal prime rate plus a margin with a floor) under these product lines. Commercial loans remain an important class of the Bank’s loan portfolio, but have decreased as a percentage of total loans and in total dollars over the last few years. At $50.5 million and 4.6% of total loans and $67.2 million and 7.3% of total loans at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, the commercial loan portfolio decreased by $16.7 million and $6.4 million compared to the prior year end balance.

 

When making commercial business loans, the Bank considers the financial condition of the borrower, the borrower’s payment history of both corporate and personal debt, the projected cash flows of the business as well the borrower’s global cash flows, the viability of the industry in which the borrower operates, the value of the collateral, and the borrower’s ability to service the debt. These loans are primarily secured by equipment, real property, accounts receivable or other security as determined by the Bank. The higher interest rates and shorter loan terms available on commercial lending make these products attractive to the Bank.

 

Commercial business loans, however, entail greater risk than residential mortgage loans. Unlike residential mortgage loans, which generally are made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from his or her employment or other income and which are secured by real property whose value tends to be more easily ascertainable, commercial loans are made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from the cash flows of the borrower’s business. As a result, the availability of funds for the repayment of commercial loans may depend substantially on the success of the business itself. In the case of business failure, collateral would need to be liquidated to provide repayment for the loan. In many cases, the highly specialized nature of collateral would make full recovery from the sale of collateral problematic. The Bank attempts to control these risks by establishing guidelines that provide for loans with low loan-to-value ratios. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the largest outstanding commercial loans were $4.0 million and $12.0 million, respectively, which was secured by commercial real estate (all of which was located in the Bank’s market area), cash and investments. These loans were performing according to terms at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

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Consumer Loans

The Bank has consumer loans secured by automobiles, boats, recreational vehicles and trucks. The Bank also makes home improvement loans and offers both secured and unsecured personal lines of credit. Consumer loans totaled $422,000 and $366,000, respectively, at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Consumer loans entail greater risk from other loan types due to being secured by rapidly depreciating assets or the reliance on the borrower’s continuing financial stability.

 

Commercial Equipment Loans

The Bank also maintains an amortizing commercial portfolio consisting primarily of commercial equipment loans. Commercial equipment loans totaled $39.7 million and $29.9 million, or 3.7% and 3.3% of the total loan portfolio, respectively, at December 31, 2016 and 2015. These loans consist primarily of fixed-rate, short-term loans collateralized by customers’ equipment including trucks, cars, construction and other more specialized equipment. When making commercial equipment loans, the Bank considers the same factors it considers when underwriting a commercial business loan. The higher interest rates and shorter loan terms available on commercial equipment lending make these products attractive to the Bank. These loans entail greater risk than loans such as residential mortgage loans. Unlike residential mortgage loans, which generally are made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from his or her employment or other income and which are secured by real property whose value tends to be more easily ascertainable, commercial loans are of higher risk and typically are made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from the cash flows of the borrower’s business. As a result, the availability of funds for the repayment of commercial loans may depend substantially on the success of the business itself. In the case of business failure, collateral would need to be liquidated to provide repayment for the loan. In many cases, the highly specialized nature of collateral equipment would make full recovery from the sale of collateral problematic. The Bank assesses the amount of collateral required for a loan based upon the credit worthiness of the borrowers.

 

Loan Portfolio Analysis

Set forth below is selected data relating to the composition of the Bank’s loan portfolio by type of loan on the dates indicated.

 

   At December 31, 
   2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
(dollars in thousands)  Amount   %   Amount   %   Amount   %   Amount   %   Amount   % 
                     
Commercial real estate  $667,105    61.25%  $538,888    58.64%  $485,601    55.68%  $476,648    58.97%  $419,667    55.47%
Residential first mtgs.   171,004    15.70%   131,401    14.30%   146,539    16.80%   159,147    19.69%   177,663    23.48%
Residential rentals (1)   101,897    9.36%   93,157    10.14%   81,777    9.38%   -         -      
Construction and land dev.   36,934    3.39%   36,189    3.94%   36,370    4.17%   32,001    3.96%   31,819    4.21%
Home equity and second mtgs.   21,399    1.97%   21,716    2.36%   21,452    2.46%   21,692    2.68%   21,982    2.91%
Commercial loans   50,484    4.64%   67,246    7.32%   73,625    8.44%   94,176    11.65%   88,158    11.65%
Consumer loans   422    0.04%   366    0.04%   613    0.07%   838    0.10%   995    0.13%
Commercial equipment   39,737    3.65%   29,931    3.26%   26,152    3.00%   23,738    2.94%   16,268    2.15%
Total Loans   1,088,982    100.00%   918,894    100.00%   872,129    100.00%   808,240    100.00%   756,552    100.00%
Deferred loan fees and premiums   (397)        1,154         1,239         972         664      
Allowance for loan losses   9,860         8,540         8,481         8,138         8,247      
Loans receivable, net  $1,079,519        $909,200        $862,409        $799,130        $747,641      

 

(1) Loans secured by residential rental property were included in the residential first mortgage and commercial real estate loan portfolios prior to a reclassification in 2016. See Note 6 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information. Comparative financial information was reclassified to conform to the classification presented in the Consolidated Financial Statements at and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

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The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the average balances outstanding and average interest rates for each major category of loans.

 

   For the Years Ended December 31, 
   2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
       Average       Average       Average       Average       Average 
   Average   Yield/   Average   Yield/   Average   Yield/   Average   Yield/   Average   Yield/ 
dollars in thousands  Balance   Cost   Balance   Cost   Balance   Cost   Balance   Cost   Balance   Cost 
Commercial real estate   602,648    4.50%   518,329    4.64%   460,014    4.84%   434,889    5.08%   395,276    5.40%
Residential first mortgages   151,366    3.99%   134,728    4.35%   148,367    4.43%   169,671    4.68%   177,401    4.68%
Residential rentals (1)   96,611    4.69%   88,251    4.63%   75,104    4.65%   -         -      
Construction and land development   36,938    4.58%   37,665    4.99%   29,921    4.68%   27,065    4.75%   31,499    4.94%
Home equity and second mortgages   21,781    4.08%   21,332    4.09%   21,426    4.21%   21,647    4.33%   22,703    4.33%
Commercial and equipment loans (2)   87,705    5.27%   81,957    5.61%   92,199    5.21%   95,316    5.11%   99,735    4.88%
Consumer loans   397    8.56%   465    8.82%   701    7.99%   954    7.23%   1,002    7.98%
Allowance for loan losses   (9,157)   n/a    (8,541)   n/a    (8,351)   n/a    (8,173)   n/a    (7,818)   n/a 
Net Average Loans   988,289    4.55%   874,186    4.73%   819,381    4.82%   741,369    5.02%   719,798    5.16%

 

(1) Loans secured by residential rental property were included in the residential first mortgage and commercial real estate loan portfolios prior to a reclassification in 2016. See Note 6 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information. Comparative financial information was reclassified to conform to the classification presented in the Consolidated Financial Statements at and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

(2) Includes both commercial loans and commercial equipment loans.

 

Loan Originations, Purchases and Sales

The Bank solicits loan applications through marketing by commercial loan officers, its branch network, and referrals from customers. Loans are processed and approved according to guidelines established by the Bank. Loan requirements such as income verification, collateral appraisal, and credit reports vary by loan type. Additionally, residential mortgages are purchased from third party providers after reviewing loan documents, underwriting support, and completing other procedures, as necessary. Loan processing functions are generally centralized except for small consumer loans. Depending on market conditions, residential mortgage loans may be classified with the intent to sell to third parties such as FHLMC. The Company sold no residential mortgage loans for the year ended December 31, 2016. Residential mortgage loans in the amounts of $4.2 million and $13.6 million were sold by the Bank for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

To comply with internal and regulatory limits on loans to one borrower, the Bank may sell portions of commercial and commercial real estate loans to other lenders. The Bank sold CRE participations of $3.0 million in 2016 and $1.5 million in 2015. The Bank may also buy loans, portions of loans, or participation certificates from other lenders. The Bank only purchases loans or portions of loans after reviewing loan documents, underwriting support, and completing other procedures, as necessary. The Bank purchased no commercial real estate or commercial loans during 2016 and 2015. Purchased participation loans are subject to the same regulatory and internal policy requirements as other loans in the Bank’s portfolio as described below.

 

7 

 

 

Loan Approvals, Procedures and Authority

Loan approval authority is established by Board policy. The Officer’s Loan Committee (OLC) consists of the following members of the Bank’s executive management; the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), President and Chief Risk Officer (“CRO”), Chief Operating Officer (“COO”) and the Chief Lending Officer (“CLO”). In addition, the OLC includes the Senior Credit Officer (“SCO”) and Senior Loan Officers (“SLO’s”). The OLC must have three (3) members of Executive Management approve all loans presented above individual loan authorities granted to the SCO and the SLOs. The SCO and the SLOs have been granted individual loan authority up to $1.0 million. Loan approval authorities vary by individual. The individual lending authority of the other lenders is set by management and is based on their individual abilities.

 

All loans and loan relationships that exceed the Bank’s in-house lending limit are required to be approved by at least three (3) members of the Bank’s Credit Risk Committee (“CRC”). In addition, the Board of Directors or the CRC approve all loans required to be approved by regulation, such as Regulation O loans or commercial loans to employees. The in-house lending guideline is approved by the Board on an annual basis or as needed if more frequently and is less than the Bank’s legal lending limit.

 

The Credit Risk Committee of the Board, consisting of three or more directors, has been delegated by the Board of Directors of the Bank to assist the Board in its oversight responsibilities. The Committee reviews the Bank’s credit risk management, including the significant policies, procedures and practices employed to manage credit risk, and provides recommendations to the Board and strategic guidance to management on the assumption, management and mitigation of credit risk.

 

Depending on the loan and collateral type, conditions for protecting the Bank’s collateral are specified in the loan documents. Typically these conditions might include requirements to maintain hazard and title insurance and to pay property taxes.

 

Loans to One Borrower

Under Maryland law, the maximum amount that the Bank is permitted to lend to any one borrower and his or her related interests may generally not exceed 10% of the Bank’s unimpaired capital and surplus, which is defined to include the Bank’s capital, surplus, retained earnings and 50% of its reserve for possible loan losses. Under this authority, the Bank would have been permitted to lend up to $14.1 million and $13.7 million, respectively, to any one borrower at December 31, 2016 and 2015. By interpretive ruling of the Maryland Commissioner, Maryland banks have the option of lending up to the amount that would be permissible for a national bank, which is generally 15% of unimpaired capital and surplus (defined to include a bank’s total capital for regulatory capital purposes plus any loan loss allowances not included in regulatory capital). Under this formula, the Bank would have been permitted to lend up to $21.9 million and $21.2 million, respectively, to any one borrower at December 31, 2016 and 2015. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the largest amount outstanding to any one borrower and borrower’s related interests was $12.8 million and $12.0 million, respectively.

 

Loan Commitments

The Bank does not normally negotiate standby commitments for the construction and purchase of real estate. Most loan commitments are granted for a one-month period. The Bank’s outstanding commitments to originate loans at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were approximately $67.0 million and $73.5 million, respectively, excluding undisbursed portions of loans in process. It has been the Bank’s experience that few commitments expire unfunded.

 

Maturity of Loan Portfolio

See Note 6 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding the dollar amount of loans maturing in the Bank’s portfolio based on their contractual terms to maturity as of December 31, 2016 and 2015. Demand loans, loans having no stated schedule of repayments and no stated maturity, and overdrafts are reported as due in one year or less.

 

Asset Classification

Federal regulations and our policies require that we utilize an internal asset classification system as a means of reporting on asset quality. We use an internal asset classification system, substantially consistent with Federal banking regulations, as a part of our credit monitoring system. Federal banking regulations set forth a classification scheme for problem and potential problem assets as “substandard,” “doubtful” or “loss” assets. An asset is considered “substandard” if it is inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. “Substandard” assets include those characterized by the “distinct possibility” that the insured institution will sustain “some loss” if the deficiencies are not corrected. Assets classified as “doubtful” have all of the weaknesses inherent in those classified “substandard” with the added characteristic that the weaknesses present make “collection or liquidation in full,” on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, “highly questionable and improbable.” Assets classified as “loss” are those considered “uncollectible” and of such little value that their continuance as assets without the establishment of a specific loss reserve is not warranted. Assets that do not currently expose the insured institution to sufficient risk to warrant classification in one of the aforementioned categories but possess weaknesses are required to be designated “special mention.”

 

8 

 

 

When an insured institution classifies one or more assets, or portions thereof, as “substandard” or “doubtful,” it is required that a general valuation allowance for loan losses be established in an amount deemed prudent by management. General valuation allowances represent loss allowances that have been established to recognize the inherent losses associated with lending activities, but that, unlike specific allowances, have not been allocated to particular problem assets. When an insured institution classifies one or more assets, or portions thereof, as “loss,” it is required either to establish a specific allowance for losses equal to 100% of the amount of the asset so classified or to charge off such amount.

 

The table below sets forth information on our classified assets and assets designated special mention at the dates indicated. Classified and special mention assets include loans, securities and other real estate owned.

 

(dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015   December 31, 2014   December 31, 2013   December 31, 2012 
Classified assets                         
Substandard  $39,109   $42,485   $54,022   $56,880   $58,595 
Doubtful   137    861    -    -    - 
Loss   -    -    -    -    - 
Total classified assets   39,246    43,346    54,022    56,880    58,595 
Special mention assets   -    1,642    5,460    9,246    6,092 
   $39,246   $44,988   $59,482   $66,126   $64,687 

 

Delinquencies

The Bank’s collection procedures provide that when a loan is 15 days delinquent, the borrower is contacted by mail and payment is requested. If the delinquency continues, subsequent efforts will be made to contact the delinquent borrower and obtain payment. If these efforts prove unsuccessful, the Bank will pursue appropriate legal action including repossession of the collateral and other actions as deemed necessary. In certain instances, the Bank will attempt to modify the loan or grant a limited moratorium on loan payments to enable the borrower to reorganize borrower’s financial affairs. For an analysis of past due loans as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, refer to Note 6 in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Impaired Loans

A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Bank will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. The Bank evaluates substandard and doubtful classified loans, loans delinquent 90 days or greater, non-accrual loans and troubled debt restructures (“TDRs”) on an individualized basis to determine whether a loan is impaired (See Notes 1 and 6 of the Consolidated Financial Statements).

 

Factors considered by management in determining impaired status include payment status, collateral value and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment delays and shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the circumstances surrounding the loan. These circumstances include the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s payment record and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. Loans not impaired are included in the pool of loans evaluated in the general component of the allowance.

 

If a specific loan is deemed to be impaired it is evaluated for impairment. Impairment is measured on a loan-by-loan basis for commercial and construction loans by either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, the loan’s observable market price or the fair value of the collateral, if the loan is collateral dependent. For loans that have an impairment, a specific allowance is established when the discounted cash flows (or collateral value or observable market price) of the impaired loan is lower than carrying value of that loan.

 

9 

 

 

The Bank considers all TDRs to be impaired and defines TDRs as loans whose terms have been modified to provide for a reduction or a delay in the payment of either interest or principal because of deterioration in the financial condition of the borrower. A loan extended or renewed at a stated interest rate equal to the current interest rate for new debt with similar risk is not considered a TDR. Once an obligation has been classified as a TDR it continues to be considered a TDR until paid in full or until the debt is refinanced at market rates with no debt forgiveness. TDRs are evaluated for impairment on a loan-by-loan basis in accordance with the Bank’s impairment methodology. The Bank does not participate in any specific government or Bank-sponsored loan modification programs. All restructured loan agreements are individual contracts negotiated with a borrower.

 

Specific loan loss reserves of $1.3 million and $1.6 million, respectively, related to impaired loans at December 31, 2016 and 2015. The following table sets forth information with respect to the Bank’s impaired loans at the dates indicated. The table includes a breakdown between impaired loans with and without an allowance:

 

   December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
Recorded investment with no allowance  $26,436   $35,171   $45,587   $28,220   $34,717 
Recorded investment with allowance   8,924    4,066    4,122    9,786    4,273 
                          
Total impaired loans  $35,360   $39,237   $49,709   $38,006   $38,990 
                          
Specific allocations of allowance  $1,289   $1,608   $451   $985   $1,548 
                          
Interest income recognized  $1,309   $1,366   $1,841   $1,608   $1,850 

 

For additional information regarding impaired loans by class at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, refer to Note 6 in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

The Bank closely monitors the payment activity of all its loans. The Bank periodically reviews the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses based on an analysis of the size of and composition of the loan portfolio, the Bank’s historical loss experience, including trends in delinquency, non-performing and classified loans and charge-offs, economic conditions in the Bank’s market area, and a review of selected individual loans. Loan losses are charged off against the allowance when individual loans are deemed uncollectible. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. The Bank believes it has established its existing allowance for loan losses in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and is in compliance with appropriate regulatory guidelines. However, the establishment of the level of the allowance for loan losses is highly subjective and dependent on incomplete information as to the ultimate disposition of loans. Accordingly, actual losses may vary from the amounts estimated. Additionally, our regulators as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review our allowance for loan losses and may require us to increase or decrease the allowance for loan losses, thereby affecting the Bank’s financial condition and earnings. For a more complete discussion of the allowance for loan losses, see the section captioned “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-Critical Accounting Policies” and Notes 1 and 6 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

10 

 

 

The following table allocates the allowance for loan losses by loan category at the dates indicated. The allocation of the allowance to each category is not necessarily indicative of future losses and does not restrict the use of the allowance to absorb losses in any category.

 

   At December 31, 
   2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
(dollars in thousands)  Amount   % (1)   Amount   % (1)   Amount   % (1)   Amount   % (1)   Amount   % (1) 
                                         
Commercial real estate  $5,212    61.25%  $3,465    58.64%  $3,528    55.68%  $3,051    58.97%  $4,092    55.47%
Residential first mtgs.   1,406    15.70%   584    14.30%   1,047    16.80%   1,343    19.69%   1,083    23.48%
Residential rentals (2)   362    9.36%   538    10.14%   593    9.38%   532         -      
Construction and land dev.   941    3.39%   1,103    3.94%   1,071    4.17%   584    3.96%   533    4.21%
Home equity and second mtgs.   138    1.97%   142    2.36%   173    2.46%   249    2.68%   280    2.91%
Commercial loans   794    4.64%   1,477    7.32%   1,677    8.44%   1,916    11.65%   1,948    11.65%
Consumer loans   3    0.04%   2    0.04%   3    0.07%   10    0.10%   19    0.13%
Commercial equipment   1,004    3.65%   1,229    3.26%   389    3.00%   453    2.94%   292    2.15%
Total allowance for loan losses  $9,860    100.00%  $8,540    100.00%  $8,481    100.00%  $8,138    100.00%  $8,247    100.00%

 

(1) Percent of loans in each category to total loans

 

(2) Loans secured by residential rental property were included in the residential first mortgage and commercial real estate loan portfolios prior to a reclassification in 2016. See Note 6 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information. Comparative financial information was reclassified to conform to the classification presented in the Consolidated Financial Statements at and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

11 

 

 

The following table sets forth an analysis of activity in the Bank’s allowance for loan losses for the periods indicated.

 

   At December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
                     
Balance at beginning of period  $8,540   $8,481   $8,138   $8,247   $7,655 
Charge-offs:                         
Commercial real estate   -    78    195    140    486 
Residential first mtgs.   -    30    94    348    11 
Residential rentals (1)   14    -    155    -    - 
Construction and land dev.   526    -    992    36    141 
Home equity and second mtgs.   -    100    59    111    211 
Commercial loans   594    432    1,134    480    1,004 
Consumer loans   1    -    3    12    5 
Commercial equipment   34    818    10    35    169 
Total Charge-offs   1,169    1,458    2,642    1,162    2,027 
Recoveries:                         
Commercial real estate   58    17    11    -    - 
Residential first mtgs.   -    1    186    11    38 
Residential rentals (1)   -    -         -    - 
Construction and land dev.   1    32    84    1    - 
Home equity and second mtgs.   5    -    10    17    - 
Commercial loans   18    11    5    23    51 
Consumer loans   .    -    11    3    1 
Commercial equipment   48    23    25    58    - 
Total Recoveries   130    84    332    113    90 
Net Charge-offs   1,039    1,374    2,310    1,049    1,937 
Provision for Loan Losses   2,359    1,433    2,653    940    2,529 
Balance at end of period  $9,860   $8,540   $8,481   $8,138   $8,247 
                          
Allowance for loan losses to total loans   0.91%   0.93%   0.97%   1.01%   1.09%
Net charge-offs to average loans   0.11%   0.16%   0.28%   0.14%   0.27%

 

(1) Loans secured by residential rental property were included in the residential first mortgage and commercial real estate loan portfolios prior to a reclassification in 2016. See Note 6 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information. Comparative financial information was reclassified to conform to the classification presented in the Consolidated Financial Statements at and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

Non-performing Assets

The Bank’s non-performing assets include other real estate owned, non-accrual loans and TDRs. Both non-accrual and TDR loans include loans that are paid current and are performing in accordance with the term of their original or modified contract terms. For a detailed discussion on asset quality see the section captioned “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-Asset Quality.”

 

Other Real Estate Owned (“OREO”)

Real estate acquired by the Bank as a result of foreclosure or by deed in lieu of foreclosure is classified as foreclosed real estate until such time as it is sold. When such property is acquired, it is recorded at its estimated fair value. Subsequent to foreclosure, the property is carried at the lower of cost or fair value less selling costs. Additional write-downs as well as carrying expenses of the foreclosed properties are charged to expenses in the current period. The Bank had foreclosed real estate with a carrying value of approximately $7.8 million and $9.4 million, respectively at December 31, 2016 and 2015. For a discussion of the accounting for foreclosed real estate, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Critical Accounting Policies - Other Real Estate Owned” and Notes 1 and 8 in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Non-accrual Loans

Loans are reviewed on a regular basis and are placed on non-accrual status when, in the opinion of management, the collection of additional interest is doubtful. The accrual of interest on mortgage and commercial loans is discontinued at the time the loan is 90 days delinquent unless the credit is well secured and in the process of collection. Consumer loans are typically charged-off no later than 90 days past due. In all cases, loans are placed on non-accrual or charged-off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful. Non-accrual loans are evaluated for impaired status on a loan by loan basis in accordance with the Company’s impairment methodology.

 

All interest accrued but not collected from loans that are placed on non-accrual or charged-off is reversed against interest income. The interest on these loans is accounted for on the cash-basis or cost-recovery method, until qualifying for return to accrual status. Loans are returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured. Non-accrual loans include certain loans that are current with all loan payments and are placed on non-accrual status due to customer operating results and cash flows. Interest is recognized on non-accrual loans on a cash-basis if the loans are not impaired or there is no impairment. For a discussion of the accounting for non-accrual loans, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-Asset Quality” and Notes 1 and 6 in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

13 

 

 

The following table sets forth information with respect to the Bank’s non-performing assets. There were no loans 90 days or more past due that were still accruing interest at the dates indicated.

 

   December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
Non-accrual loans:                         
Commercial real estate  $2,371   $2,875   $3,824   $7,930   $5,331 
Residential first mtgs.   623    1,948    533    2,245    3,739 
Residential rentals (3)   577    605    -    -    - 
Construction and land dev.   3,048    3,555    3,634    2,968    - 
Home equity and second mtgs.   61    48    399    115    71 
Commercial loans   1,044    2,054    1,587    1,935    3,732 
Consumer loans   -    -    -    24    52 
Commercial equipment   650    348    286    234    216 
Total non-accrual loans (1)   8,374    11,433    10,263    15,451    13,141 
                          
OREO   7,763    9,449    5,883    6,797    6,891 
                          
TDRs: (2)                         
Commercial real estate   9,587    9,839    10,438    3,141    3,097 
Residential first mtgs.   545    881    906    1,485    1,418 
Residential rentals (3)   227    2,058                
Construction and land dev.   3,777    4,283    4,376    -    - 
Home equity and second mtgs.   872    -    -    -      
Commercial loans   -    1,384    2,262    -    - 
Commercial equipment   113    123    154    67    - 
Total TDRs   15,121    18,568    18,136    4,693    4,515 
Total Accrual TDRs   10,448    13,133    13,249    4,364    4,515 
                          
Total non-accrual loans, OREO and Accrual TDRs  $26,585   $34,015   $29,395   $26,612   $24,547 
                          
Interest due at stated rates, but not recognized  $1,103   $987   $845   $599   $626 
                          
Non-accrual loans to total loans   0.77%   1.24%   1.18%   1.91%   1.74%
Non-accrual loans and Accrual TDRs to total loans (2)   1.73%   2.67%   2.70%   2.45%   2.33%
Non-accrual loans, OREO and Accrual TDRs to total assets (2)   1.99%   2.98%   2.71%   2.60%   2.50%

 

(1) Non-accrual loans include all loans that are 90 days or more delinquent and loans that are non-accrual due to the operating results or cash flows of a customer.

 

(2) TDR loans include both non-accrual and accruing performing loans. All TDR loans are included in the calculation of asset quality financial ratios. Non-accrual TDR loans are included in the non-accrual balance and accruing TDR loans are included in the accruing TDR balance.

 

(3) Loans secured by residential rental property were included in the residential first mortgage and commercial real estate loan portfolios prior to a reclassification in 2016. See Note 6 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information. Comparative financial information was reclassified to conform to the classification presented in the Consolidated Financial Statements at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

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Investment Activities

The Bank maintains a portfolio of investment securities to provide liquidity as well as a source of earnings. The Bank’s investment securities portfolio consists primarily of asset-backed mortgage-backed (“MBS”) and collateralized mortgage obligations (“CMOs”) and other securities issued by U.S. government-sponsored enterprises (“GSEs”), including FNMA and FHLMC. The Bank also has smaller holdings of privately issued mortgage-backed securities, U.S. Treasury obligations, and other equity and debt securities. The Bank is required to maintain investments in the Federal Home Loan Bank based upon levels of borrowings.

 

The following table sets forth the carrying value of the Company’s investment securities portfolio and FHLB of Atlanta and Federal Reserve Bank stock at the dates indicated. HTM securities and FHLB of Atlanta and Federal Reserve Bank stock are carried at amortized cost and AFS securities are carried at fair value. At December 31, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012, their estimated fair value was $168.3 million, $151.4 million, $133.3 million, $139.9 million and $166.9 million, respectively. As previously disclosed, on April 18, 2016, the Bank terminated its membership in the Federal Reserve System and cancelled its stock in the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond effective as of that date.

 

   At December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
Asset-backed securities:                         
Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae  $136,206   $138,267   $119,762   $126,607   $150,318 
U.S. Agencies   16,889    -    -    -    - 
Other   884    1,093    1,472    3,120    4,439 
Total asset-backed securities   153,979    139,360    121,234    129,727    154,757 
                          
Corporate equity securities   37    39    40    41    37 
Bond mutual funds   4,413    4,387    4,321    4,130    4,281 
Callable GSE Agency Bonds   3,001    -    -    -    - 
Treasury bills   850    750    850    750    750 
Total investment securities   162,280    144,536    126,445    134,648    159,825 
FHLB and FRB stock   7,235    6,931    6,434    5,593    5,476 
Total investment securities and FHLB and FRB stock  $169,515   $151,467   $132,879   $140,241   $165,301 

 

The maturities and weighted average yields for investment securities available for sale (“AFS”) and held to maturity (“HTM”) at December 31, 2016 and 2015 are shown below.

 

   One year or Less   After One
Through Five Years
   After Five
Through Ten Years
   After Ten Years 
December 31, 2016  Amortized   Average   Amortized   Average   Amortized   Average   Amortized   Average 
(dollars in thousands)  Cost   Yield   Cost   Yield   Cost   Yield   Cost   Yield 
AFS Investment securities:                                        
Asset-backed securities  $7,879    2.17%  $21,481    2.15%  $13,093    2.05%  $7,689    1.91%
Mutual funds   4,386    2.01%   -    0.00%   -    0.00%   -    0.00%
                                         
Total AFS investment securities  $12,265    2.11%  $21,481    2.15%  $13,093    2.05%  $7,689    1.91%
                                         
HTM Investment securities:                                        
Asset-backed securities  $18,844    2.35%  $47,168    2.34%  $29,803    2.29%  $12,582    2.41%
U.S. government obligations   850    0.00%   -    0.00%   -    0.00%   -    0.00%
Other investments   -    0.00%   -    0.00%   -    0.00%   -    0.00%
                                         
Total HTM investment securities  $19,694    2.25%  $47,168    2.34%  $29,803    2.29%  $12,582    2.41%

 

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           After One   After Five         
   One Year or Less   Through Five Years   Through Ten Years   After Ten Years 
December 31, 2015  Amortized   Average   Amortized   Average   Amortized   Average   Amortized   Average 
(dollars in thousands)  Cost   Yield   Cost   Yield   Cost   Yield   Cost   Yield 
AFS Investment securities:                                        
Asset-backed securities  $6,075    1.86%  $15,355    1.86%  $7,727    1.87%  $2,048    1.86%
Mutual funds   4,288    2.02%   -    0.00%   -    0.00%   -    0.00%
                                         
Total AFS investment securities  $10,363    1.93%  $15,355    1.86%  $7,727    1.87%  $2,048    1.86%
                                         
HTM Investment securities:                                        
Asset-backed securities  $21,850    2.31%  $50,895    2.32%  $23,259    2.32%  $12,666    2.25%
U.S. government obligations   750    0.00%   -    0.00%   -    0.00%   -    0.00%
                                         
Total HTM investment securities  $22,600    2.23%  $50,895    2.32%  $23,259    2.32%  $12,666    2.25%

 

The Bank’s investment policy provides that securities that will be held for indefinite periods of time, including securities that will be used as part of the Bank’s asset/liability management strategy and that may be sold in response to changes in interest rates, prepayments and similar factors are classified as available for sale and accounted for at fair value. Management’s intent is to hold securities reported at amortized cost to maturity. Certain of the Company’s asset-backed securities are issued by private issuers (defined as an issuer that is not a government or a government-sponsored entity). The Company had no investments in any private issuer’s securities that aggregate to more than 10% of the Company’s equity. For a discussion of investments see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-Asset Quality” and Notes 1 and 5 in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Deposits and Other Sources of Funds

 

General

The funds needed by the Bank to make loans are primarily generated by deposit accounts solicited from the communities surrounding its branches. Total deposits were $1,038.8 million and $906.9 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 The Company uses both traditional brokered deposits and reciprocal brokered deposits. Traditional brokered deposits at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were $131.0 million and $49.1 million, respectively. Reciprocal brokered deposits at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were $70.7 million and $61.1 million, respectively. The reciprocal brokered deposits have many characteristics of core deposits and are used to maximize FDIC insurance available to our customers.

 

Deposits

The Bank’s deposit products include savings, money market, demand deposit, IRA, SEP, and time deposit accounts. Variations in service charges, terms and interest rates are used to target specific markets. Ancillary products and services for deposit customers include safe deposit boxes, night depositories, cash vaults, automated clearinghouse transactions, wire transfers, ATMs, online and telephone banking, retail and business mobile banking, remote deposit capture, merchant card services, investment services, positive pay, payroll services, account reconciliation, bill pay, credit cards and lockbox. The Bank is a member of ACCEL, Master Card, Allpoint and Star ATM networks.

 

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The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the average balances outstanding and average interest rates for each major category of deposits.

 

   For the Years Ended December 31, 
   2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
   Average   Average   Average   Average   Average   Average   Average   Average   Average   Average 
(dollars in thousands)  Balance   Rate   Balance   Rate   Balance   Rate   Balance   Rate   Balance   Rate 
Savings  $48,878    0.08%  $44,963    0.10%  $40,104    0.10%  $37,540    0.10%  $32,577    0.17%
                                                   
Interest-bearing
demand and money market accounts
   380,592    0.30%   322,717    0.28%   281,960    0.27%   268,832    0.33%   262,331    0.56%
Certificates of deposit   409,621    0.86%   378,179    0.85%   389,641    0.97%   392,675    1.19%   432,487    1.60%
Total interest-bearing deposits   839,091    0.56%   745,859    0.56%   711,705    0.64%   699,047    0.80%   727,395    1.16%
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits   142,116         120,527         100,783         87,649         74,161      
   $981,207    0.48%  $866,386    0.48%  $812,488    0.56%  $786,696    0.71%  $801,556    1.05%

 

The following table indicates the amount of the Bank’s certificates of deposit and other time deposits of $100,000 or more and $250,000 or more by time remaining until maturity as of December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

   At December 31, 2016 
Time Deposit Maturity Period  $100,000
or More
   $250,000
or More
 
(dollars in thousands)          
Three months or less  $86,282   $61,832 
Three through six months   45,703    23,134 
Six through twelve months   87,695    46,476 
Over twelve months   67,917    22,415 
Total  $287,597   $153,857 

 

   At December 31, 2015 
Time Deposit Maturity Period  $100,000
or More
   $250,000
or More
 
(dollars in thousands)          
Three months or less  $33,873   $14,071 
Three through six months   42,091    24,860 
Six through twelve months   65,299    26,778 
Over twelve months   81,031    32,903 
Total  $222,294   $98,612 

 

For a discussion of deposits, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-Liabilities” and Notes 1 and 10 in the Consolidated Financial Statements. Note 10 includes the scheduled contractual maturities of total certificates of deposits of $432.8 million and $375.6 million, respectively at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

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Borrowings

Deposits are the primary source of funds for the Bank’s lending and investment activities and for its general business purposes. The Bank uses advances from the FHLB of Atlanta to supplement the supply of funds it may lend and to meet deposit withdrawal requirements. Advances from the FHLB are secured by the Bank’s stock in the FHLB, a portion of the Bank’s loan portfolio and certain investments. Generally, the Bank’s ability to borrow from the FHLB of Atlanta is limited by its available collateral and also by an overall limitation of 30% of assets. Further, short-term credit facilities are available at the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond and commercial banks. Long-term debt consists of adjustable-rate advances with rates based upon LIBOR, fixed-rate advances, and convertible advances. For a discussion of borrowing, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-Liabilities” and Notes 1, 11, 16 and 17 in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Subsidiary Activities

In April 1997, the Bank formed a wholly owned subsidiary, Community Mortgage Corporation of Tri-County, to offer mortgage banking, brokerage, and other services to the public. This corporation is currently inactive. The Company has two direct subsidiaries other than the Bank. In July 2004, Tri-County Capital Trust I was established as a statutory trust under Delaware law as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company to issue trust preferred securities. Tri-County Capital Trust I issued $7.0 million of trust preferred securities on July 22, 2004. In June 2005, Tri-County Capital Trust II was also established as a statutory trust under Delaware law as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company to issue trust preferred securities. Tri-County Capital Trust II issued $5.0 million of trust preferred securities on June 15, 2005. For more information regarding these entities, see Note 16 in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Supervision and Regulation

 

Regulation of the Company

 

General

As a bank holding company, the Company is subject to comprehensive regulation, examination and supervision by the Federal Reserve Board under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the “BHCA”), and the regulations of the Federal Reserve Board. The Federal Reserve Board also has extensive enforcement authority over bank holding companies, including, among other things, the ability to assess civil money penalties, to issue cease and desist or removal orders, and to require that a holding company divest subsidiaries (including its bank subsidiaries). In general, enforcement actions may be initiated for violations of law and regulations and unsafe or unsound practices.

 

The following discussion summarizes certain of the regulations applicable to the Company but does not purport to be a complete description of such regulations and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the actual laws and regulations involved.

 

Acquisition of Control

A bank holding company, with certain exceptions, must obtain Federal Reserve Board approval before (1) acquiring ownership or control of another bank or bank holding company if it would own or control more than 5% of such shares or (2) acquiring all or substantially all of the assets of another bank or bank holding company; or (3) merging with another bank holding company. In evaluating such application, the Federal Reserve Board considers factors such as the financial condition and managerial resources of the companies involved, the convenience and needs of the communities to be served and competitive factors. Federal law provides that no person may acquire “control” of a bank holding company or insured bank without the approval of the appropriate federal regulator. Control is defined to mean direct or indirect ownership, control of 25% or more of any class of voting stock, control of the election of a majority of the bank’s directors or a determination by the Federal Reserve Board that the acquirer has or would have the power to exercise a controlling influence over the management or policies of the institution.

 

The Maryland Financial Institutions Code additionally prohibits any person from acquiring more than 10% of the outstanding shares of any class of securities of a bank or bank holding company, or electing a majority of the directors or directing the management or policies of any such entity, without 60 days prior notice to the Commissioner. The Commissioner may deny approval of the acquisition if the Commissioner determines it to be anti-competitive or to threaten the safety or soundness of a banking institution.

 

Permissible Activities

A bank holding company is limited in its activities to banking, managing or controlling banks, or providing services for its subsidiaries. Other permitted non-bank activities have been identified as closely related to banking. Bank holding companies that are “well capitalized” and “well managed” and whose financial institution subsidiaries have satisfactory Community Reinvestment Act records can elect to become “financial holding companies,” which are permitted to engage in a broader range of financial activities than are permitted to bank holding companies. The Company has not opted to become a financial holding company.

 

The Federal Reserve Board has the power to order a holding company or its subsidiaries to terminate any activity, or to terminate its ownership or control of any subsidiary, when it has reasonable cause to believe that the continuation of such activity or such ownership or control constitutes a serious risk to the financial safety, soundness or stability of any bank subsidiary of that holding company.

 

Dividend

The Federal Reserve Board has the power to prohibit dividends by bank holding companies if their actions constitute unsafe or unsound practices. The Federal Reserve Board has issued a policy statement on the payment of cash dividends by bank holding companies, which expresses the Federal Reserve Board’s view that a bank holding company should pay cash dividends only to the extent that the company’s net income for the past year is sufficient to cover both the cash dividends and a rate of earnings retention that is consistent with the company’s capital needs, asset quality and overall financial condition. The Federal Reserve Board also indicated that it would be inappropriate for a bank holding company experiencing serious financial problems to borrow funds to pay dividends. Under the prompt corrective action regulations adopted by the Federal Reserve Board, the Federal Reserve Board may prohibit a bank holding company from paying any dividends if the holding company’s bank subsidiary is classified as “undercapitalized.” See “Regulation of the Bank – Capital Adequacy.”

 

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Sources of Strength

The Dodd-Frank Act codified the source of strength doctrine requiring bank holding companies to serve as a source of strength for their depository subsidiaries, by providing capital, liquidity and other support in times of financial stress. The regulatory agencies are required, under the Act, to issue implementing regulations.

 

Stock Repurchases

The Company is required to give the Federal Reserve Board prior written notice of any purchase or redemption of its outstanding equity securities if the gross consideration for the purchase or redemption, when combined with the net consideration paid for all such purchases or redemptions during the preceding 12 months, is equal to 10% or more of the Company’s consolidated net worth. The Federal Reserve Board may disapprove such a purchase or redemption. This requirement does not apply to bank holding companies that are “well capitalized,” “well-managed” and are not the subject of any unresolved supervisory issues.

 

Capital Requirement

Bank holding companies are required to maintain on a consolidated basis, specified minimum ratios of capital to total assets and capital to risk-weighted assets. These requirements, which generally apply to bank holding companies with consolidated assets of $1 billion or more, such as the Company, are substantially similar to, but somewhat more generous than, those applicable to the Bank. See “– Regulation of the Bank – Capital Adequacy.” The Dodd-Frank Act required the Federal Reserve Board to adopt consolidated capital requirements for holding companies that are equally as stringent as those applicable to the depository institution subsidiaries. That means that certain instruments that had previously been includable in Tier 1 capital for bank holding companies, such as trust preferred securities, will no longer be eligible for inclusion. The revised capital requirements are subject to certain grandfathering and transition rules. The Company is currently considered a grandfathered institution under these rules.

 

Regulation of the Bank

 

General

The Bank is a Maryland commercial bank and its deposit accounts are insured by the Deposit Insurance Fund of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. On April 18, 2016, the Bank terminated its membership in the Federal Reserve System and cancelled its stock in the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. Accordingly, as of that date, the Bank’s primary regulator became the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”). The Bank currently is subject to supervision, examination and regulation by Commissioner of Financial Regulation of the State of Maryland (the “Commissioner”) and the FDIC.

 

The Dodd-Frank Act established the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau as an independent bureau of the Federal Reserve Board. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau assumed responsibility for implementing federal consumer financial protection and fair lending laws and regulations, a function currently handled by federal bank regulatory agencies. However, institutions of less than $10 billion, such as the Bank, will continue to be examined for compliance with consumer protection or fair lending laws and regulations by, and be subject to enforcement authority of their primary federal regulators.

 

The following discussion summarizes certain regulations applicable to the Bank but does not purport to be a complete description of such regulations and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the actual laws and regulations involved.

 

Capital Adequacy

On July 9, 2013, the federal bank regulatory agencies issued a final rule that revised their risk-based capital requirements and the method for calculating risk-weighted assets to make them consistent with agreements that were reached by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision and certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act (the “Basel III Capital Rules”).

 

On January 1, 2015, the Company and Bank became subject to the Basel III Capital Rules with full compliance with all of the final rules’ requirements phased in over a multi-year schedule, to be fully phased-in by January 1, 2019. The Basel III Capital Rules substantially revise the risk-based capital requirements applicable to bank holding companies and depository institutions compared to the previous U.S. risk-based capital rules. The Basel III Capital Rules define the components of capital and address other issues affecting the numerator in banking institutions’ regulatory capital ratios. The Basel III Capital Rules also address risk weights and other issues affecting the denominator in banking institutions’ regulatory capital ratios and replace the existing risk-weighting approach with a more risk-sensitive approach. The Basel III Capital Rules also implement the requirements of Section 939A of the Dodd-Frank Act to remove references to credit ratings from the federal banking agencies’ rules.

 

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The Basel III Capital Rules include a new common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets minimum ratio of 4.5%, raise the minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets from 4.0% to 6.0%, require a minimum ratio (“Min. Ratio”) of Total Capital to risk-weighted assets of 8.0%, and require a minimum Tier 1 leverage ratio of 4.0%. A new capital conservation buffer (“CCB”) is also established above the regulatory minimum capital requirements. This capital conservation buffer began being phased-in January 1, 2016 at 0.625% of risk-weighted assets and increases each subsequent year by an additional 0.625% until reaching its final level of 2.5% on January 1, 2019. Strict eligibility criteria for regulatory capital instruments were also implemented under the final rules. The final rules also revise the definition and calculation of Tier 1 capital, total capital, and risk-weighted assets.

 

Prompt Corrective Regulatory Action

Federal law requires, among other things, that federal bank regulatory authorities take “prompt corrective action” with respect to institutions that do not meet minimum capital requirements. For such purposes, the law establishes five capital tiers: well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized, and critically undercapitalized.

 

As a result of the Basel III Capital Rules (discussed further above), effective January 1, 2015, an institution is deemed to be “well capitalized” if it has a total risk-based capital ratio of 10% or greater, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 8% or greater, a common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6.5% or greater, and a leverage capital ratio of 5% or greater, and is not subject to a regulatory order, agreement, or directive to meet and maintain a specific capital level for any capital measure. An institution is deemed to be “adequately capitalized” if it has a total risk-based capital ratio of 8% or greater, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6% or greater, a common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 4.5% or greater and generally a leverage capital ratio of 4% or greater. An institution is deemed to be “undercapitalized” if it has a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 8%, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 6%, a common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 4.5% or generally a leverage capital ratio of less than 4%. An institution is deemed to be “significantly undercapitalized” if it has a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 6%, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 4%, a common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 3% or a leverage capital ratio of less than 3%. An institution is deemed to be “critically undercapitalized” if it has a ratio of tangible equity (as defined in the regulations) to total assets that is equal to or less than 2%.

 

“Undercapitalized” institutions are subject to growth, capital distribution (including dividend), and other limitations, and are required to submit a capital restoration plan. An institution’s compliance with such a plan is required to be guaranteed by any company that controls the undercapitalized institution in an amount equal to the lesser of 5% of the bank’s total assets when deemed undercapitalized or the amount necessary to achieve the status of adequately capitalized. If an undercapitalized institution fails to submit an acceptable plan, it is treated as if it is “significantly undercapitalized.” Significantly undercapitalized institutions are subject to one or more additional restrictions including, but not limited to, a regulatory order requiring them to sell sufficient voting stock to become adequately capitalized; requirements to reduce total assets, cease receipt of deposits from correspondent banks, or dismiss directors or officers; and restrictions on interest rates paid on deposits, compensation of executive officers, and capital distributions by the parent holding company.

 

Beginning 60 days after becoming “critically undercapitalized,” critically undercapitalized institutions also may not make any payment of principal or interest on certain subordinated debt, extend credit for a highly leveraged transaction, or enter into any material transaction outside the ordinary course of business. In addition, subject to a narrow exception, the appointment of a receiver is required for a critically undercapitalized institution within 270 days after it obtains such status.

 

Branching

Maryland law provides that, with the approval of the Commissioner, Maryland banks may establish branches within Maryland and may establish branches in other states by any means permitted by the laws of such state or by federal law. The FDIC may approve interstate branching by merger in any state that did not opt out and de novo in states that specifically allow for such branching.

 

Dividend Limitations

Maryland banks may only pay cash dividends from undivided profits or, with the prior approval of the Commissioner, their surplus in excess of 100% of required capital stock. Maryland banks may not declare a stock dividend unless their surplus, after the increase in capital stock, is equal to at least 20% of the outstanding capital stock as increased. If the surplus of the bank, after the increase in capital stock, is less than 100% of its capital stock as increased, the commercial bank must annually transfer to surplus at least 10% of its net earnings until the surplus is 100% of its capital stock as increased.

 

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Insurance of Deposit Accounts

The Bank’s deposits are insured up to applicable limits by the Deposit Insurance Fund of the FDIC. The deposit insurance per account owner is currently $250,000.

 

Under the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s risk-based assessment system, insured institutions are assigned to one of four risk categories based on supervisory evaluations, regulatory capital levels and certain other factors, with less risky institutions paying lower assessments. An institution’s assessment rate depends upon the category to which it is assigned. The initial base assessment rate ranges from five to 35 basis points. The rate schedules will automatically adjust in the future when the Deposit Insurance Fund reaches certain milestones. No institution may pay a dividend if in default of the federal deposit insurance assessment.

 

Insurance of deposits may be terminated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation upon a finding that the institution has engaged in unsafe or unsound practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue operations or has violated any applicable law, regulation, rule, order or condition imposed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or its prudential banking regulator. The management of the Bank does not know of any practice, condition or violation that might lead to termination of deposit insurance.

 

Reserve Requirements

Under federal regulations, the Bank is required to maintain non-interest earning reserves against their transaction accounts (primarily Negotiable Order of Withdrawal (NOW) and regular checking accounts). The regulations required that that reserves be maintained against aggregate transaction accounts as follows for 2016: a 3% reserve ratio was assessed on net transaction accounts up to and including $110.2 million; a 10% reserve ratio is applied above $110.2 million. The first $15.2 million of otherwise reservable balances (subject to adjustments by the Federal Reserve Board) are exempted from the reserve requirements. The amounts are adjusted annually and, for 2017, will require a 3% ratio for up to $115.1 million and an exemption of $15.5 million. At December 31, 2016, the Bank met applicable reserve requirements.

 

Transactions with Affiliates

A state nonmember bank, such as the Bank, is limited in the amount of “covered transactions” with any affiliate. All such transactions must also be on terms substantially the same, or at least as favorable, to the Bank or subsidiary as those provided to a non-affiliate. The term “covered transaction” includes the making of loans, purchase of assets, issuance of a guarantee and similar types of transactions. Certain covered transactions, such as loans to affiliates, must meet collateral requirements. At December 31, 2016, we had no transactions with affiliates.

 

Loans to directors, executive officers and principal stockholders of a state nonmember bank must be made on substantially the same terms as those prevailing for comparable transactions with persons who are not executive officers, directors, principal stockholders or employees of the bank. Loans to any executive officer, director and principal stockholder together with all other outstanding loans to such person and affiliated interests generally may not exceed 15% of the Bank’s unimpaired capital and surplus and all loans to such persons may not exceed the institution’s unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus. Loans to directors, executive officers and principal stockholders, and their respective affiliates, in excess of the greater of $25,000 or 5% of capital and surplus, or any loans cumulatively aggregating $500,000 or more, must be approved in advance by a majority of the board of directors of the bank with any “interested” director not participating in the voting. State nonmember banks are prohibited from paying the overdrafts of any of their executive officers or directors unless payment is made pursuant to a written, pre-authorized interest-bearing extension of credit plan that specifies a method of repayment or transfer of funds from another account at the bank. In addition, loans to executive officers may not be made on terms more favorable than those afforded other borrowers and are restricted as to type, amount and terms of credit.

 

Enforcement

The Commissioner has extensive enforcement authority over Maryland banks. Such authority includes the ability to issue cease and desist orders and civil money penalties and to remove directors or officers. The Commissioner may also take possession of a Maryland bank whose capital is impaired and seek to have a receiver appointed by a court.

 

The FDIC has primary federal enforcement responsibility over state banks under its jurisdiction, including the authority to bring enforcement action against all “institution-related parties,” including stockholders, and any attorneys, appraisers and accountants who knowingly or recklessly participate in wrongful action likely to have an adverse effect on an institution. Formal enforcement action may range from the issuance of capital directive or a cease and desist order for the removal of officers and/or directors, receivership, conservatorship or termination of deposit insurance. Civil money penalties cover a wide range of violations and actions, and range up to $25,000 per day or even up to $1 million per day (in the most egregious cases). Criminal penalties for most financial institution crimes include fines of up to $1 million and imprisonment for up to 30 years.

 

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Other Regulations

 

The Bank’s operations are also subject to federal laws applicable to credit transactions, including the:

 

·Truth-In-Lending Act, governing disclosures of credit terms to consumer borrowers;

 

·Bank Secrecy Act of 1970, requiring financial institutions to assist U.S. government agencies to detect and prevent money laundering;

 

·Home Mortgage Disclosure Act of 1975, requiring financial institutions to provide information to enable the public and public officials to determine whether a financial institution is fulfilling its obligation to help meet the housing needs of the community it serves;

 

·Equal Credit Opportunity Act, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, creed or other prohibited factors in extending credit;

 

·Fair Credit Reporting Act of 1978, governing the use and provision of information to credit reporting agencies; and

 

·Fair Debt Collection Act, governing the manner in which consumer debts may be collected by collection agencies; and rules and regulations of the various federal agencies charged with the responsibility of implementing such federal laws.

 

The operations of the Bank also are subject to laws such as the:

 

·Right to Financial Privacy Act, which imposes a duty to maintain confidentiality of consumer financial records and prescribes procedures for complying with administrative subpoenas of financial records;

 

·Electronic Funds Transfer Act and Regulation E promulgated thereunder, which govern automatic deposits to and withdrawals from deposit accounts and customers’ rights and liabilities arising from the use of automated teller machines and other electronic banking services; and

 

·Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act (also known as “Check 21”), which gives “substitute checks,” such as digital check images and copies made from that image, the same legal standing as the original paper check.

 

Management

 

Chief Officers

 

Our executive officers are elected by the Board of Directors and serve at the Board’s discretion. Executive officers of the Bank also serve as executive officers of the Company. The executive officers of the Company are as follows:

 

William J. Pasenelli, 58, is President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. He serves as the Bank’s Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Pasenelli joined the Bank as Chief Financial Officer in 2000 and was named President of the Bank in 2010 and President of the Company in May 2012. He relinquished the position of Chief Financial Officer of the Bank in March 2013 and President in July 2016. Before joining the Bank, Mr. Pasenelli had been Chief Financial Officer of Acacia Federal Savings Bank, Annandale, Virginia, since 1987. Mr. Pasenelli has over 30 years of banking experience. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Maryland Bankers Association and the Maryland Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Pasenelli is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Greater Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants and other civic groups. Mr. Pasenelli is a graduate of the National School of Banking and holds a Bachelor of Arts from Duke University. He also attended the Harvard Business School Program on Negotiation.

 

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Gregory C. Cockerham, 62, joined the Bank in 1988. He serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer of the Company and the Bank. Before joining the Bank, he was Vice President of Maryland National Bank. Mr. Cockerham has over 40 years of banking experience. Mr. Cockerham serves as former Chairman of the College of Southern Maryland Foundation and is the past Chairman of the Maryland Title Center. He presently serves as the Potomac Baptist Association Finance Chair, is a Paul Harris Fellow, Foundation Chair and Past President of the Rotary Club of Charles County and serves on various civic boards. Mr. Cockerham is a Maryland Bankers School graduate and holds a Bachelor of Science from West Virginia University. He also attended the Harvard Business School Program on Negotiation.

 

James M. Burke, 49, joined the Bank in 2006. He serves as the Bank’s President and Chief Risk Officer of the Company and the Bank. Before his appointment as President of the Bank in 2016, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Risk Officer. Before joining the Bank, Mr. Burke served as Executive Vice President and Senior Loan Officer of Mercantile Southern Maryland Bank. Mr. Burke has over 20 years of banking experience. Mr. Burke is the former Chairman of the Board of Directors of University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center and is active in other civic groups. Mr. Burke is a Maryland Bankers School graduate and holds a Bachelor of Arts from High Point University. He is also a graduate of the East Carolina Advanced School of Commercial Lending and attended the Harvard Business School Program on Negotiation.

 

James F. Di Misa, 57, joined the Bank in 2006. He serves as Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer of the Company and the Bank. Before joining the Bank, Mr. Di Misa served as Executive Vice President of Mercantile Southern Maryland Bank. Mr. Di Misa has over 30 years of banking experience. Mr. Di Misa is former Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Maryland Bankers School and a Paul Harris Fellow, Foundation Secretary and Past President of the Rotary Club of Charles County. He is also a member of several other civic and professional groups. Mr. Di Misa is a Stonier Graduate School of Banking graduate and holds a Masters of Business Administration from Mount St. Mary’s College and a Bachelor of Science from George Mason University. He also attended the Harvard Business School Program on Negotiation.

 

Todd L. Capitani, 50, joined the Bank in 2009. He serves as Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer of the Company and the Bank. Before joining the Bank, Mr. Capitani served as a Senior Finance Manager at Deloitte Consulting and as Chief Financial Officer at Ruesch International, Inc. Mr. Capitani has over 25 years of experience in corporate finance, controllership and external audit. Mr. Capitani is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and other civic groups. Mr. Capitani is a Certified Public Accountant and holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of California at Santa Barbara. He also attended the Harvard Business School Program on Negotiation and the Yale School of Management Strategic Leadership Conference.

 

Christy M Lombardi, 40, joined the Bank in 1998. She serves as Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer of the Company and the Bank. Ms. Lombardi is responsible for administrative and corporate governance matters for the Company, and oversees human resources and shareholder relations. Ms. Lombardi has 20 years of banking experience. She serves as Immediate Past Chair for the Calvert County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, on the Advisory Board of the Maryland Banker’s Association Council of Professional Women in Banking and Finance and on the Southern Maryland Workforce Development Board. She is a Maryland Bankers School graduate and holds a Masters in Management from University of Maryland University College as well as a Masters in Business Administration. Ms. Lombardi also attended the Harvard Business School Program on Negotiation.

 

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Item 1A. Risk Factors

 

Risks

 

An investment in shares of our common stock involves various risks. Our business, financial condition and results of operations could be harmed by any of the following risks or by other risks that have not been identified or that we may believe are immaterial or unlikely. The value or market price of our common stock could decline due to any of these risks, and you may lose all or part of your investment. The risks discussed below also include forward-looking statements, and our actual results may differ substantially from those discussed in these forward-looking statements.

 

Our increased emphasis on commercial lending may expose us to increased lending risks.

 

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, our loan portfolio consisted of $667.1 million, or 61.3%, and $538.9 million, or 58.6%, respectively, of commercial real estate loans, $101.9 million, or 9.4%, and $93.2 million, or 10.1%, respectively, of residential rental loans, $50.5 million, or 4.6% and $67.2 million, or 7.3%, respectively of commercial business loans and $39.7 million, or 3.7% and $29.9 million, or 3.3%, respectively, of commercial equipment loans. We intend to maintain our emphasis on these types of loans. These types of loans generally expose a lender to greater risk of non-payment and loss and require a commensurately higher loan loss allowance than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans because repayment of the loans often depends on the successful operation of the property and the income stream of the borrowers. Such loans typically involve larger loan balances compared to one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. Commercial business and equipment loans expose us to additional risks since they typically are made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayments from the cash flows of the borrower’s business and are secured by non-real estate collateral that may depreciate over time. Also, many of our commercial borrowers have more than one loan outstanding with us. Consequently, an adverse development with respect to one loan or one credit relationship can expose us to a significantly greater risk of loss compared to an adverse development with respect to a one- to four-family residential mortgage loan. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, $4.6 million, or 55.4% and $5.8 million, or 51.4%, respectively, of our non-accrual loans of $8.4 million and $11.4 million, respectively, consisted of commercial loans.

 

Our provision for loan losses has been elevated during the last five years and we may be required to make further increases in our provision for loan losses and to charge-off additional loans in the future. Further, our allowance for loan losses may prove to be insufficient to absorb losses in our loan portfolio.

 

For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, we recorded a provision for loan losses of $2.4 million and $1.4 million, respectively. We also recorded net loan charge-offs of $1.0 million and $1.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Our non-accrual loans, OREO and accruing TDRs aggregated $26.6 million, or 1.99% of total assets and $34.0 million, or 2.98% of total assets, respectively, at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Additionally, loans that were classified as either special mention and substandard were $30.4 million and $33.6 million, respectively, at December 31, 2016 and 2015. We had $137,000 and $861,000 in loans classified as doubtful and no loans classified as loss at December 31, 2016 and 2015. If the economy and/or the real estate market weakens, more of our classified loans may become non-performing and we may be required to take additional provisions to increase our allowance for loan losses for these assets as the value of the collateral may be insufficient to pay any remaining net loan balance, which would have a negative effect on our results of operations. We maintain an allowance for loan losses to provide for loans in our portfolio that may not be repaid in their entirety. We believe that our allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level adequate to absorb probable losses inherent in our loan portfolio as of the corresponding balance sheet date. However, our allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to cover actual loan losses, and future provisions for loan losses could materially adversely affect our operating results.

 

In evaluating the adequacy of our allowance for loan losses, we consider numerous quantitative factors, including our historical charge-off experience, growth of our loan portfolio, changes in the composition of our loan portfolio and the volume of delinquent, non-accrual and classified loans, TDRs and foreclosed real estate. In addition, we use information about specific borrower situations, including their financial position and estimated collateral values, to estimate the risk and amount of loss for those borrowers. Finally, we also consider many qualitative factors, including general and economic business conditions, anticipated duration of the current business cycle, current general market collateral valuations, trends apparent in any of the factors we take into account and other matters, which are, by nature, more subjective and fluid. Our estimates of the risk of loss and amount of loss on any loan are complicated by the significant uncertainties surrounding our borrowers’ abilities to successfully execute their business models through changing economic environments, competitive challenges and other factors. Because of the degree of uncertainty and susceptibility of these factors to change, our actual losses may vary from our current estimates.

 

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Our regulators, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review our allowance for loan losses and may require us to increase our allowance for loan losses by recognizing additional provisions for loan losses charged to expense, or to decrease our allowance for loan losses by recognizing loan charge-offs. Any such additional provisions for loan losses or charge-offs, as required by our regulators, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

If we do not effectively manage our credit risk, we may experience increased levels of non-performing loans, charge-offs and delinquencies, which would require additional increases in our provision for loan losses.

 

There are risks inherent in making any loan, including risks inherent in dealing with individual borrowers, risks of non-payment, risks resulting from uncertainties as to the future value of collateral and cash flows available to service debt and risks resulting from changes in economic and market conditions. Our credit risk approval and monitoring procedures may not reduce these credit risks, and they cannot be expected to completely eliminate our credit risks. If the overall economic climate in the United States, generally, or our market areas, specifically, fails to improve, or even if it does improve, our borrowers may experience difficulties in repaying their loans, and the level of non-performing loans, charge-offs and delinquencies could rise and require further increases in the provision for loan losses, which would cause our net income and return on equity to decrease.

 

Non-performing and classified assets take significant time to resolve and adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition, and could result in further losses in the future.

 

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, our non-accrual loans totaled $8.4 million, or 0.77% of our loan portfolio and $11.4 million, or 1.24%of our loan portfolio, respectively. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, our non-accrual loans, OREO and accruing TDRs totaled $26.6 million, or 1.99% of total assets and $34.0 million, or 2.98% of total assets, respectively. Our non-performing assets adversely affect our net income in various ways. We do not accrue interest income on non-accrual loans or foreclosed properties, thereby adversely affecting our net income and returns on assets and equity, increasing our loan administration costs and adversely affecting our efficiency ratio. When we take collateral in foreclosure and similar proceedings, we are required to mark the collateral to its then fair market value, less estimated selling costs, which may result in a loss. These non-performing loans and foreclosed properties also increase our risk profile and the amount of capital our regulators believe is appropriate to maintain in light of such risks. The resolution of non-performing assets requires significant time commitments from management and can be detrimental to the performance of their other responsibilities. If we experience increases in non-performing loans and non-performing assets, our net interest income will be negatively impacted and our loan administration costs could increase, each of which could have an adverse effect on our net income and related ratios, such as return on assets and equity.

 

At December 31, 2016 and 2015 our total classified assets were $39.2 million and $43.3 million, respectively. While we continue to accrue interest income on classified loans that are performing, classified loans and other classified assets may negatively impact profitability by requiring additional management attention and regular monitoring. Increased monitoring of these assets by management may impact our management’s ability to focus on opportunistic growth, potentially adversely impacting future profitability.

 

Our residential mortgage loans and home equity loans expose us to a risk of loss due to declining real estate values.

 

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, $171.0 million, or 15.7%, of our total loan portfolio, and $131.4 million, or 14.3%, of our total loan portfolio, respectively, consisted of owner-occupied one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, $21.4 million, or 2.0%, of our total loan portfolio and $21.7 million, or 2.4%, of our total loan portfolio, respectively, consisted of home equity loans and lines of credit. Declines in the housing market could result in declines in real estate values in our market area. A decline in real estate values could cause some of our mortgage and home equity loans to be inadequately collateralized, which would expose us to a greater risk of loss if we seek to recover on defaulted loans by selling the real estate collateral.

 

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Negative developments in the financial industry, the domestic and international credit markets, and the economy in general pose significant challenges for our industry and us and could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Negative developments that began in the latter half of 2007 and that have continued since then in the global credit and securitization markets have resulted in unprecedented volatility and disruption in the financial markets, a general economic downturn and a tepid economic recovery, both nationally and in our primary markets. As a result, commercial as well as consumer loan portfolio performances deteriorated at many institutions and have not fully recovered, and the competition for deposits and quality loans has increased significantly. In addition, the values of real estate collateral supporting many commercial loans and home mortgages have declined and may continue to decline. As a result, we may face the following risks:

 

• Economic conditions that negatively affect housing prices and the job market may cause the credit quality of our loan portfolios to deteriorate;

 

• Market developments that affect consumer confidence may cause adverse changes in payment patterns by our customers, causing increases in delinquencies and default rates on loans and other credit facilities;

 

• The processes that we use to estimate our allowance for loan losses and reserves may no longer be reliable because they rely on judgments, such as forecasts of economic conditions, that may no longer be capable of accurate estimation;

 

• The value of our securities portfolio may decline; and

 

• We face increased regulation of our industry, and the costs of compliance with such regulation may increase.

 

These conditions or similar ones may continue to persist or worsen, causing us to experience continuing or increased adverse effects on our business, financial condition, results of operations and the price of our common stock.

 

Changes in interest rates could reduce our net interest income and earnings.

 

Our largest component of earnings is net interest income, which could be negatively affected by changes in interest rates. Changing interest rates impact customer actions and may limit the options available to the Company to maximize earnings or increase the costs to minimize risk. We do not have control over market interest rates and the Company’s focus to mitigate potential earnings risk centers on controlling the composition of our assets and liabilities.

 

Our net interest income is the interest we earn on loans and investments less the interest we pay on our deposits and borrowings. Our net interest margin is net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets. Changes in interest rates could adversely affect our net interest margin and, as a result, our net interest income. Although the yield we earn on our assets and our funding costs tend to move in the same direction in response to changes in interest rates, one can rise or fall faster than the other, causing our net interest margin to increase or decrease. Our liabilities tend to be shorter in duration than our assets, so they may adjust faster in response to changes in interest rates. As a result, when interest rates rise, our funding costs may rise faster than the yield we earn on our assets, causing our net interest margin to contract until the yield catches up. Changes in the slope of the “yield curve”—or the spread between short-term and long-term interest rates—could also reduce our net interest margin. Normally, the yield curve is upward sloping, meaning short-term rates are lower than long-term rates. Because our liabilities tend to be shorter in duration than our assets, when the yield curve flattens or inverts, we could experience pressure on our net interest margin as our cost of funds increases relative to the yield we can earn on our assets. Our procedures for managing exposure to falling net interest income involve modeling possible scenarios of interest rate increases and decreases to interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities.

 

Changes in interest rates also can affect: (1) our ability to originate loans; (2) the value of our interest-earning assets; (3) our ability to obtain and retain deposits in competition with other available investment alternatives; and (4) the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans, particularly adjustable or variable rate loans.

 

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Monetary policies and regulations of the Federal Reserve could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

In addition to being affected by general economic conditions, our earnings and growth are affected by the policies of the Federal Reserve. An important function of the Federal Reserve is to regulate the money supply and credit conditions. Among the instruments used by the Federal Reserve to implement these objectives are open market operations in U.S. government securities, adjustments of the discount rate and changes in reserve requirements against bank deposits. These instruments are used in varying combinations to influence overall economic growth and the distribution of credit, bank loans, investments and deposits. Their use also affects interest rates charged on loans or paid on deposits. The monetary policies and regulations of the Federal Reserve have had a significant effect on the operating results of commercial banks in the past and are expected to continue to do so in the future. The effects of such policies upon our business, financial condition and results of operations cannot be predicted.

 

Our financial condition and results of operations could be negatively affected if we fail to timely and effectively execute our strategic plan or manage the growth called for in our strategic plan.

 

Among other things, our strategic plan currently calls for reducing the amount of our non-performing assets, growing assets through commercial lending and generating transaction deposit accounts to reduce our funding costs and improve our net interest margin. Our ability to increase profitability in accordance with this plan will depend on a variety of factors including the identification of desirable business opportunities, competitive responses from financial institutions in our market area and our ability to manage liquidity and funding sources. While we believe we have the management resources and internal systems in place to successfully manage our strategic plan, opportunities may not be available and that the strategic plan may not be successful or effectively managed.

 

In implementing our strategic plan we may expand into additional communities or attempt to strengthen our position in our current markets through opportunistic acquisitions of whole banks or branch locations. To the extent that we undertake acquisitions, we are likely to experience the effects of higher operating expenses relative to operating income from the new operations, which may have an adverse effect on our levels of reported net income, return on average equity and return on average assets. Other effects of engaging in such growth strategies may include potential diversion of our management’s time and attention and general disruption to our business. We may not be able to adequately, timely and profitably achieve the intended benefits or our growth strategies or manage anticipated growth.

 

We are a community bank and our ability to maintain our reputation is critical to the success of our business and the failure to do so may materially adversely affect our performance.

 

We are a community bank, and our reputation is one of the most valuable components of our business. As such, we strive to conduct our business in a manner that enhances our reputation. This is done, in part, by recruiting, hiring and retaining employees who share our core values of being an integral part of the communities we serve, delivering superior service to our customers and caring about our customers and associates. If our reputation is negatively affected, by the actions of our employees or otherwise, our business and, therefore, our operating results may be adversely affected.

 

Our asset valuation may include methodologies, estimations and assumptions that are subject to differing interpretations and could result in changes to asset valuations that may materially adversely affect our results of operations or financial condition.

 

We must use estimates, assumptions, and judgments when financial assets and liabilities are measured and reported at fair value. Assets and liabilities carried at fair value inherently result in a higher degree of financial statement volatility. Fair values and the information used to record valuation adjustments for certain assets and liabilities are based on quoted market prices and/or other observable inputs provided by independent third-party sources, when available. When such third-party information is not available, we estimate fair value primarily by using cash flows and other financial modeling techniques utilizing assumptions such as credit quality, liquidity, interest rates and other relevant inputs. Changes in underlying factors, assumptions, or estimates in any of these areas could materially impact our future financial condition and results of operations.

 

During periods of market disruption, including periods of significantly rising or high interest rates, rapidly widening credit spreads or illiquidity, it may be difficult to value certain of our assets if trading becomes less frequent and market data becomes less observable. There may be certain asset classes that were in active markets with significant observable data that become illiquid due to the current financial environment. In such cases, certain asset valuations may require more subjectivity and management judgment. As such, valuations may include inputs and assumptions that are less observable or require greater estimation.

 

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Strong competition within our market area could hurt our profits and slow growth.

 

We face intense competition both in making loans and attracting deposits. Our competition for loans and deposits includes banks, savings institutions, mortgage banking companies, credit unions and non-banking financial institutions. We compete with regional and national financial institutions that have a substantial presence in our market area, many of which have greater liquidity, higher lending limits, greater access to capital, more established market recognition and more resources and collective experience than us. Furthermore, tax-exempt credit unions operate in our market area and aggressively price their products and services to a large portion of the market. This competition may make it more difficult for us to originate new loans and may force us to offer higher deposit rates than we currently offer. Price competition for loans and deposits might result in lower interest rates earned on our loans and higher interest rates paid on our deposits, which would reduce net interest income. Our profitability depends upon our continued ability to compete successfully in our market area.

 

If the value of real estate in our market area were to decline, a significant portion of our loan portfolio could become under-collateralized, which could have a material adverse effect on us.

 

Declines in local economic conditions could adversely affect the value of the real estate collateral securing our loans. A decline in property values would diminish our ability to recover on defaulted loans by selling the real estate collateral, making it more likely that we would suffer losses on defaulted loans. Additionally, a decrease in asset quality could require additions to our allowance for loan losses through increased provisions for loan losses, which would hurt our profits. Real estate values are affected by various factors in addition to local economic conditions, including, among other things, changes in general or regional economic conditions, governmental rules or policies and natural disasters.

 

We may be adversely affected by economic conditions in our market area, which is significantly dependent on federal government and military employment and programs.

 

Our marketplace is primarily in the counties of Charles, Calvert, St. Mary’s and Anne Arundel, Maryland and neighboring communities, and the Fredericksburg area of Virginia. Many, if not most, of our customers live and/or work in those counties or in the greater Washington, DC metropolitan area. Because our services are concentrated in this market, we are affected by the general economic conditions in the greater Washington, DC area. Changes in the economy may influence the growth rate of our loans and deposits, the quality of the loan portfolio and loan and deposit pricing. A significant decline in economic conditions caused by inflation, recession, unemployment or other factors beyond our control could decrease the demand for banking products and services generally and/or impair the ability of existing borrowers to repay their loans, which could negatively affect our financial condition and performance.

 

A significant portion of the population in our market area is affiliated with or employed by the federal government or at military facilities located in the area which contribute to the local economy. As a result, a reduction in federal government or military employment or programs could have a negative impact on local economic conditions and real estate collateral values, and could also negatively affect the Company’s profitability.

 

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We operate in a highly regulated environment and we may be adversely affected by changes in laws and regulations.

 

The Company and the Bank are subject to extensive regulation, supervision and examination as noted in the “Supervision and Regulation” section of this report. The regulation and supervision by the Maryland Commissioner, the Federal Reserve and the FDIC are not intended to protect the interests of investors in The Community Financial Corporation common stock. Regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the imposition of restrictions on our operations, the classification of our assets and determination of the level of our allowance for loan losses. Laws and regulations now affecting us may be changed at any time, and the interpretation of such laws and regulations by bank regulatory authorities is also subject to change. Any change in such regulation and oversight, whether in the form of regulatory policy, regulations, legislation or supervisory action, may have a material impact on our operations.

 

Regulation of the financial services industry is undergoing major changes and future legislation could increase our cost of doing business or harm our competitive position.

 

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”) has created a significant shift in the way financial institutions operate. The key effects of the Dodd-Frank Act on our business are:

 

• Changes to regulatory capital requirements;

 

• Creation of new government regulatory agencies (such as the Financial Stability Oversight Council, which oversees systemic risk, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which develops and enforces rules for bank and non-bank providers of consumer financial products);

 

• Potential limitations on federal preemption;

 

• Changes to deposit insurance assessments;

 

• Regulation of debit interchange fees we earn;

 

• Changes in retail banking regulations, including potential limitations on certain fees we may charge; and

 

• Changes in regulation of consumer mortgage loan origination and risk retention.

 

In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act restricts the ability of banks to engage in certain proprietary trading or to sponsor or invest in private equity or hedge funds. The Dodd-Frank Act also contains provisions designed to limit the ability of insured depository institutions, their holding companies and their affiliates to conduct certain swaps and derivatives activities and to take certain principal positions in financial instruments.

 

Certain changes resulting from the Dodd-Frank Act may impact the profitability of our business activities, require changes to certain of our business practices, impose upon us more stringent capital, liquidity and leverage requirements or otherwise adversely affect our business. These changes may also require us to invest significant management attention and resources to evaluate and make any changes necessary to comply with new statutory and regulatory requirements. Failure to comply with the requirements may negatively impact our results of operations and financial condition.

 

New capital rules generally require insured depository institutions and their holding companies to hold more capital. The impact of the new rules on our financial condition and operations is uncertain but could be materially adverse.

 

New capital rules adopted by the Federal Reserve substantially amended the regulatory risk-based capital rules applicable to us. The rule includes new risk-based capital and leverage ratios, which became effective January 1, 2015, and revise the definition of what constitutes “capital” for purposes of calculating those ratios. The rules apply to the Company as well as to the Bank. Beginning in the first quarter of 2015, our minimum capital requirements were (i) a common Tier 1 equity ratio of 4.5%, (ii) a Tier 1 capital (common Tier 1 capital plus Additional Tier 1 capital) of 6% (up from 4%) and (iii) a total capital ratio of 8%. Our leverage ratio requirement will remain at the 4% level. Finally, the new capital rules limit capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments if the banking organization does not hold a “capital conservation buffer” consisting of 2.5% of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets in addition to the amount necessary to meet its minimum risk-based capital requirements. The capital conservation buffer requirement was phased in beginning January 1, 2016, at 0.625% of risk-weighted assets, increasing each year until fully implemented at 2.5% on January 1, 2019.

 

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We are periodically subject to examination and scrutiny by a number of banking agencies and, depending upon the findings and determinations of these agencies, we may be required to make adjustments to our business that could adversely affect us.

 

Federal and state banking agencies periodically conduct examinations of our business, including compliance with applicable laws and regulations. If, as a result of an examination, a federal banking agency was to determine that the financial condition, capital resources, asset quality, asset concentration, earnings prospects, management, liquidity, sensitivity to market risk or other aspects of any of our operations has become unsatisfactory, or that we or our management is in violation of any law or regulation, it could take a number of different remedial actions as it deems appropriate. These actions include the power to enjoin “unsafe or unsound” practices, to require affirmative actions to correct any conditions resulting from any violation or practice, to issue an administrative order that can be judicially enforced, to direct an increase in our capital, to restrict our growth, to change the asset composition of our portfolio or balance sheet, to assess civil monetary penalties against our officers or directors, to remove officers and directors and, if it is concluded that such conditions cannot be corrected or there is an imminent risk of loss to depositors, to terminate our deposit insurance. If we become subject to such regulatory actions, our business, results of operations and reputation may be negatively impacted.

 

The Company is a bank holding company and its sources of funds necessary to meet its obligations are limited.

 

The Company is a bank holding company, and its operations are primarily conducted by the Bank, which is subject to significant federal and state regulation. Cash available to pay dividends to our common and preferred stockholders, pay our obligations and meet our debt service requirements is derived primarily from our existing cash flow sources, dividends received from the Bank, or a combination thereof. Future dividend payments by the Bank to us will require generation of future earnings by the Bank and are subject to certain regulatory guidelines. If the Bank is unable to pay dividends to us, we may not have the resources or cash flow to pay or meet all of our obligations.

 

Our internal control systems are inherently limited.

 

Our systems of internal controls, disclosure controls and corporate governance policies and procedures are inherently limited. The inherent limitations of our system of internal controls include the use of judgment in decision-making that can be faulty; breakdowns can occur because of human error or mistakes; and controls can be circumvented by individual acts or by collusion of two or more people. The design of any system of controls is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and any design may not succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. Because of the inherent limitation of a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and may not be detected, which may have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition. Additionally, any plans of remediation for any identified limitations may be ineffective in improving our internal controls.

 

The market price and liquidity of our common stock could be adversely affected if the economy were to weaken or the capital markets were to experience volatility.

 

The market price of our common stock could be subject to significant fluctuations due to changes in sentiment in the market regarding our operations or business prospects. Among other factors, these risks may be affected by:

 

Operating results that vary from the expectations of our management or of securities analysts and investors;

 

Developments in our business or in the financial services sector generally;

 

Regulatory or legislative changes affecting our industry generally or our business and operations;

 

Operating and securities price performance of companies that investors consider to be comparable to us;

 

Changes in estimates or recommendations by securities analysts or rating agencies;

 

Announcements of strategic developments, acquisitions, dispositions, financings, and other material events by us or our competitors;

 

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Changes or volatility in global financial markets and economies, general market conditions, interest or foreign exchange rates, stock, commodity, credit, or asset valuations; and

 

Significant fluctuations in the capital markets.

 

Economic or market turmoil could occur in the near or long term, which could negatively affect our business, our financial condition, and our results of operations, as well as volatility in the price and trading volume of our common stock.

 

Provisions of our articles of incorporation, bylaws and Maryland law, as well as state and federal banking regulations, could delay or prevent a takeover of us by a third party.

 

Provisions in our articles of incorporation and bylaws and Maryland corporate law could delay, defer or prevent a third party from acquiring us, despite the possible benefit to our shareholders, or otherwise adversely affect the price of our common stock. These provisions include: supermajority voting requirements for certain business combinations; the election of directors to staggered terms of three years; and advance notice requirements for nominations for election to our board of directors and for proposing matters that shareholders may act on at shareholder meetings. In addition, we are subject to Maryland laws, including one that prohibits us from engaging in a business combination with any interested shareholder for a period of five years from the date the person became an interested shareholder unless certain conditions are met. These provisions may discourage potential takeover attempts, discourage bids for our common stock at a premium over market price or adversely affect the market price of, and the voting and other rights of the holders of, our common stock. These provisions could also discourage proxy contests and make it more difficult for shareholders to elect directors other than the candidates nominated by our Board.

 

We rely on other companies to provide key components of our business infrastructure.

 

Third party vendors provide key components of our business infrastructure such as core data processing systems, internet connections, network access and fund distribution. While we have selected these third party vendors carefully, we cannot control their actions. Any problems caused by these third parties, including those which result from their failure to provide services for any reason or their poor performance of services, could adversely affect our ability to deliver products and services to its customers and otherwise to conduct its business. Replacing these third party vendors could also entail significant delay and expense.

 

We are dependent on our information technology and telecommunications systems and third-party servicers, and systems failures, interruptions or breaches of security could have a material adverse effect on us.

 

Our business is dependent on the successful and uninterrupted functioning of our information technology and telecommunications systems and third-party servicers. The failure of these systems, or the termination of a third-party software license or service agreement on which any of these systems is based, could interrupt our operations. Because our information technology and telecommunications systems interface with and depend on third-party systems, we could experience service denials if demand for such services exceeds capacity or such third-party systems fail or experience interruptions. If significant, sustained or repeated, a system failure or service denial could compromise our ability to operate effectively, damage our reputation, result in a loss of customer business, and/or subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny and possible financial liability, any of which could have a material adverse effect on us.

 

In addition, we provide our customers with the ability to bank remotely, including over the Internet and the telephone. The secure transmission of confidential information over the Internet and other remote channels is a critical element of remote banking. Despite instituted safeguards and monitoring, our network could be vulnerable to unauthorized access, computer viruses, phishing schemes and other security breaches. We may be required to spend significant capital and other resources to protect against the threat of security breaches and computer viruses, or to alleviate problems caused by security breaches or viruses. To the extent that our activities or the activities of our customers involve the storage and transmission of confidential information, physical and cyber security breaches and viruses could expose us to claims, regulatory scrutiny, litigation and other possible liabilities. Any inability to prevent security breaches or computer viruses could also cause existing customers to lose confidence in our systems and could materially and adversely affect us.

 

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We are subject to a variety of operational risks, environmental, legal and compliance risks, and the risk of fraud or theft by employees or outsiders, which may adversely affect our business and results of operations.

 

We are exposed to many types of operational risks, including reputational risk, legal and compliance risk, the risk of fraud or theft by employees or outsiders, and unauthorized transactions by employees or operational errors, including clerical or record-keeping errors or those resulting from faulty or disabled computer, telecommunications systems, cyber security breaches and other disruptive problems caused by the Internet or other users. Negative public opinion can result from our actual or alleged conduct in any number of activities, including lending practices, corporate governance and acquisitions of other entities, and from actions taken by government regulators and community organizations in response to those activities. Negative public opinion can adversely affect our ability to attract and keep customers and can expose us to litigation and regulatory action. Actual or alleged conduct by the Bank can also result in negative public opinion about our other businesses.

 

If personal, non-public, confidential or proprietary information of customers in our possession were to be misappropriated, mishandled or misused, we could suffer significant regulatory consequences, reputational damage and financial loss. Such mishandling or misuse could include, for example, erroneously providing such information to parties who are not permitted to have the information, either by fault of our systems, employees, or counterparties, or the interception or inappropriate acquisition of such information by third parties.

 

Because the nature of the financial services business involves a high volume of transactions, certain errors may be repeated or compounded before they are discovered and successfully rectified. Our necessary dependence upon automated systems to record and process transactions and our large transaction volume may further increase the risk that technical flaws or employee tampering or manipulation of those systems will result in losses that are difficult to detect. We also may be subject to disruptions of our operating systems arising from events that are wholly or partially beyond our control (for example, computer viruses or electrical or telecommunications outages, or natural disasters, disease pandemics or other damage to property or physical assets) which may give rise to disruption of service to customers and to financial loss or liability. We are further exposed to the risk that our external vendors may be unable to fulfill their contractual obligations (or will be subject to the same risk of fraud or operational errors by their respective employees as we are) and to the risk that our (or our vendors’) business continuity and data security systems prove to be inadequate. The occurrence of any of these risks could result in our diminished ability to operate our business (for example, by requiring us to expend significant resources to correct the defect), as well as potential liability to clients, reputational damage and regulatory intervention, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations, perhaps materially.

 

We face a risk of noncompliance and enforcement action with the Bank Secrecy Act and other anti-money laundering statutes and regulations.

 

The federal Bank Secrecy Act, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (the “PATRIOT Act”) and other laws and regulations require financial institutions, among other duties, to institute and maintain effective anti-money laundering programs and file suspicious activity and currency transaction reports as appropriate. The federal Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, established by the U.S. Treasury Department to administer the Bank Secrecy Act, is authorized to impose significant civil money penalties for violations of those requirements and has recently engaged in coordinated enforcement efforts with the individual federal banking regulators, as well as the U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration and Internal Revenue Service. Federal and state bank regulators also have begun to focus on compliance with Bank Secrecy Act and anti-money laundering regulations. If our policies, procedures and systems are deemed deficient or the policies, procedures and systems of the financial institutions that we may acquire in the future are deficient, we would be subject to liability, including fines and regulatory actions such as restrictions on our ability to pay dividends and the necessity to obtain regulatory approvals to proceed with certain aspects of our business plan, including our acquisition plans, which would negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. Failure to maintain and implement adequate programs to combat money laundering and terrorist financing could also have serious reputational consequences for us.

 

33 

 

 

Security breaches and other disruptions could compromise our information and expose us to liability, which would cause our business and reputation to suffer.

 

In the ordinary course of our business, we collect and store sensitive data, including our proprietary business information and that of our customers, suppliers and business partners; and personally identifiable information of our customers and employees. The secure processing, maintenance and transmission of this information is critical to our operations and business strategy. We, our customers, and other financial institutions with which we interact, are subject to ongoing, continuous attempts to penetrate key systems by individual hackers, organized criminals, and in some cases, state-sponsored organizations. Information security risks for financial institutions have generally increased in recent years in part because of the proliferation of new technologies, the use of the Internet and telecommunications technologies to conduct financial transactions, and the increased sophistication and activities of organized crime, hackers, terrorists, activists, and other external parties. Despite our security measures and monitoring, our information technology and infrastructure may be vulnerable to attacks by hackers or breached due to employee error, malfeasance or other disruptions. Any such breach could compromise our networks and the information stored there could be accessed, publicly disclosed, lost or stolen. Any such unauthorized access, disclosure or other loss of information could result in significant costs to us, which may include fines and penalties, potential liabilities from governmental or third party investigations, proceedings or litigation, legal, forensic and consulting fees and expenses, costs and diversion of management attention required for investigation and remediation actions, and the negative impact on our reputation and loss of confidence of our customers and others, any of which could have a material adverse impact on our business, revenues, financial condition and competitive position. As cyber threats continue to evolve, we may be required to spend significant capital and other resources to protect against the threat of security breaches and computer viruses, or to alleviate problems caused by security breaches or viruses.

 

If our information technology is unable to keep pace with industry developments, our business and results of operations may be adversely affected.

 

Financial products and services have become increasingly technology-driven. Our ability to meet the needs of our customers competitively, and in a cost-efficient manner, is dependent on the ability to keep pace with technological advances and to invest in new technology as it becomes available. Many of our competitors have greater resources to invest in technology than we do and may be better equipped to market new technology-driven products and services. The ability to keep pace with technological change is important, and the failure to do so could have a material adverse impact on our business and therefore on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Exiting or entering new lines of business or new products and services may subject us to additional risk.

 

From time to time, we may exit an existing line of business or implement new lines of business or offer new products and services within existing lines of business. There are substantial risks and uncertainties associated with these efforts. When exiting a line of business or product we may have difficulty replacing the revenue stream and may have to take certain actions to make up for the line of business or product. For example, we recently discontinued the origination of residential mortgage loans and instead now purchase residential mortgage loans for our loan portfolio from other sources. If those sources are not available or the cost for such purchases increases our results of operations may be adversely affected. We also may face increased credit risk with respect to purchased loans relative to the credit risks we faced in connection with the origination of loans. In developing and marketing new lines of business and/or new products and services, we may invest significant time and resources. Initial timetables for the introduction and development of new lines of business and/or new products or services may not be achieved and price and profitability targets may not prove feasible. External factors, such as compliance with regulations, competitive alternatives, and shifting market preferences, may also impact the successful implementation of a new line of business and/or a new product or service. Furthermore, any new line of business and/or new product or service could have a significant impact on the effectiveness of our system of internal controls. Failure to successfully manage these risks in the development and implementation of new lines of business and/or new products or services could have a material adverse effect on our business and, in turn, our financial condition and results of operations.

 

The amount of interest payable on our 6.25% Fixed to Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2025 will vary after February 15, 2020.

 

The interest rate on our 6.25% Fixed to Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2025 will vary after February 15, 2020. From and including the issue date of such notes but excluding February 15, 2020, the notes will bear interest at a fixed rate of 6.25% per year. From and including February 15, 2020, to but excluding the maturity date, the notes will bear interest at an annual floating rate equal to the three-month LIBOR plus 479 basis points for any interest period. If interest rates rise, the cost of our subordinated notes may increase thereby negatively affecting our net income.

 

34 

 

 

 

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

Not applicable.

 

Item 2. Properties

The Bank maintains its main office and operations center in Waldorf, Maryland, in addition to its branch offices in Lexington Park, Leonardtown, La Plata, Dunkirk, Bryans Road, Waldorf, Charlotte Hall, Prince Frederick and Lusby, Maryland and two branches in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The Bank owns all of its branches except for the Dunkirk, Maryland branch, the Fredericksburg Central Park, Virginia branch and the land on which the Waldorf, Charlotte Hall, Prince Frederick and Lusby, Maryland branches are located. In addition, the Bank maintains five loan production offices (“LPOs”) in La Plata, Prince Frederick, Leonardtown and Annapolis, Maryland; and Fredericksburg, Virginia. The Leonardtown and Fredericksburg LPOs are co-located with branches. Lease expiration dates range from 2019 to 2035 with renewal options of 5 to 10 years. Lease expiration dates range from 2019 to 2035 with renewal options of 5 to 10 years. The net book value of premises, which included land, building and improvements, totaled $19.5 million and $ 17.3 million, respectively, at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

Neither the Company, the Bank, nor any subsidiary is engaged in any legal proceedings of a material nature at the present time. From time to time, the Bank is a party to legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business.

 

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

 

35 

 

 

 

PART II

 

Item 5 - Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

Market Price and Dividends on Registrant’s and Related Stockholder Matters.

Market Information

The following table sets forth high and low bid quotations reported for the Company’s common stock for each quarter during 2016 and 2015 and the dividends declared per share for common stock. These quotes reflect inter-dealer prices without retail mark-up, mark-down or commission and may not necessarily reflect actual transactions.

 

Quarter Ended  High   Low   Dividends Per
Share
 
             
December 31, 2016   30.40    22.61    0.10 
September 30, 2016   23.97    21.80    0.10 
June 30, 2016   23.76    20.60    0.10 
March 31, 2016   21.84    19.19    0.10 
December 31, 2015   24.00    20.25    0.10 
September 30, 2015   24.60    19.18    0.10 
June 30, 2015   23.77    19.75    0.10 
March 31, 2015   20.35    18.41    0.10 

 

Holders

The common stock of the Company is traded on the NASDAQ Stock Exchange (Symbol: TCFC). The number of stockholders of record of the Company at March 6, 2017 was 493.

 

Dividends

During 2016 and 2015, the Company declared and paid four quarters of dividends at $0.10 per share. The Board of Directors considers on a quarterly basis the feasibility of paying a cash dividend to its stockholders. Under the Company’s general practice, dividends, if declared during the quarter, are paid prior to the end of the subsequent quarter.

 

The Company’s ability to pay dividends is governed by the policies and regulations of the Federal Reserve Board (the “FRB”), which prohibits the payment of dividends under certain circumstances dependent on the Company’s financial condition and capital adequacy. The Company’s ability to pay dividends is also dependent on the receipt of dividends from the Bank.

 

Federal regulations impose certain limitations on the payment of dividends and other capital distributions by the Bank. The Bank’s ability to pay dividends is governed by the Maryland Financial Institutions Code and the regulations of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”). Under the Maryland Financial Institutions Code, a Maryland bank (1) may only pay dividends from undivided profits or, with prior regulatory approval, its surplus in excess of 100% of required capital stock and, (2) may not declare dividends on its common stock until its surplus funds equals the amount of required capital stock, or if the surplus fund does not equal the amount of capital stock, in an amount in excess of 90% of net earnings.

 

Without the approval of the FDIC, a nonmember bank may not declare or pay a dividend if the total of all dividends declared during the year exceeds its net income during the current calendar year and retained net income for the prior two years. The Bank is further prohibited from making a capital distribution if it would not be adequately capitalized thereafter. In addition, the Bank may not make a capital distribution that would reduce its net worth below the amount required to maintain the liquidation account established for the benefit of its depositors at the time of its conversion to stock form.

 

36 

 

 

Stock Performance Graph

The following graph and table show the cumulative total return on the common stock of the Company over the last five years, compared with the cumulative total return of a broad stock market index (the NASDAQ Capital Market Composite), and a narrower index of the NASDAQ Bank Index. Cumulative total return on the stock or the index equals the total increase in value since December 31, 2011, assuming reinvestment of all dividends paid into the stock or the index.

 

The graph and table were prepared assuming that $100 was invested on December 31, 2011, in the common stock and the securities included in the indexes

 

 

Source: Bloomberg  Year Ended 
Index  12/31/2011   12/31/2012   12/31/2013   12/31/2014   12/31/2015   12/31/2016 
The Community Financial Corporation   100.00    109.20    144.93    143.26    151.75    212.86 
NASDAQ Bank Index   100.00    118.55    167.52    175.58    190.96    262.03 
NASDAQ Capital Market Composite   100.00    113.52    155.08    146.39    121.56    139.33 

 

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Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

Not applicable.

 

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer

On May 4, 2015, the Board of Directors approved a repurchase plan (“2015 repurchase plan). The 2015 repurchase plan authorizes the repurchase of up to 250,000 shares of outstanding common stock. The 2015 repurchase plan will continue until it is completed or terminated by the Company’s Board of Directors. During the quarter ended December 31, 2015, the 2015 repurchase plan began with the termination of the 2008 repurchase program. As of December 31, 2016, 188,558 shares were available to be repurchased under the 2015 repurchase program. The following schedule shows the repurchases during the three months ended December 31, 2016.

 

           (c)     
           Total Number     
           of Shares   (d) 
           Purchased   Maximum 
   (a)       as Part of   Number of Shares 
   Total   (b)   Publicly   that May Yet Be 
   Number of   Average   Announced Plans   Purchased Under 
   Shares   Price Paid   or   the Plans or 
Period  Purchased   per Share   Programs   Programs 
October 1-31, 2016   21,635   $22.30    21,635    190,583 
November 1-30, 2016   2,025    22.33    2,025    188,558 
December 1-31, 2016   -    -    -    188,558 
Total   23,660   $22.30    23,660    188,558 

 

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Item 6 - Selected Financial Data

 

SUMMARY OF SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

 

The following table shows selected historical consolidated financial data for the Company as of and for each of the five years ended December 31, 2016, which has been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements. You should read this table together with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Annual 10-K report.

 

   At or for the Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)  2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
                     
FINANCIAL CONDITION DATA                         
Total assets  $1,334,257   $1,143,332   $1,082,878   $1,023,824   $981,639 
Loans receivable, net   1,079,519    909,200    862,409    799,130    747,641 
Investment securities   162,280    144,536    126,445    134,648    159,825 
Deposits   1,038,825    906,899    869,384    821,295    820,231 
Borrowings   144,559    91,617    76,672    70,476    61,527 
Junior subordinated debentures   12,000    12,000    12,000    12,000    12,000 
Subordinated notes - 6.25%   23,000    23,000    -    -    - 
Stockholders’ equity—preferred   -    -    20,000    20,000    20,000 
Stockholders’ equity—common   104,426    99,783    96,559    90,730    59,047 
OPERATING DATA                         
Interest and dividend income  $48,047   $43,873   $41,759   $39,678   $40,293 
Interest expenses   8,142    7,345    6,698    7,646    10,604 
Net interest income (NII)   39,905    36,528    35,061    32,032    29,689 
Provision for loan losses   2,359    1,433    2,653    940    2,529 
NII after provision for loan losses   37,546    35,095    32,408    31,092    27,160 
Noninterest income   3,360    3,299    4,093    4,174    4,410 
Noninterest expenses   29,159    28,418    26,235    24,844    23,804 
Income before income taxes   11,747    9,976    10,266    10,422    7,766 
Income taxes   4,416    3,633    3,776    3,771    2,776 
Net income   7,331    6,343    6,490    6,651    4,990 
Preferred stock dividends declared   -    23    200    200    200 
Income available to common shares  $7,331   $6,320   $6,290   $6,451   $4,790 
COMMON SHARE DATA                         
Basic earnings per common share  $1.59   $1.36   $1.35   $1.90   $1.57 
Diluted earnings per common share   1.59    1.35    1.35    1.88    1.57 
Dividends declared per common share   0.40    0.40    0.40    0.40    0.40 
Book value per common share (1)   22.54    21.48    20.53    19.52    19.34 
Common shares outstanding at end of period   4,633,868    4,645,429    4,702,715    4,647,407    3,052,416 
Basic weighted average common shares   4,599,502    4,676,748    4,646,424    3,402,432    3,043,039 
Diluted weighted average common shares   4,599,502    4,676,748    4,655,127    3,426,793    3,055,362 
OTHER DATA                         
Number of:                         
Full-time equivalent employees   162    171    172    165    160 
Full-service offices   12    12    12    11    11 
Loan Production Offices   5    5    5    4    n/a 

REGULATORY CAPITAL RATIOS (consolidated)

                         
Tier 1 capital to average assets (Leverage)   9.02%   10.01%   12.24%   12.50%   9.39%
Tier 1 common capital to risk-weighted assets   9.54    10.16    n/a    n/a    n/a 
Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets   10.62    11.38    14.26    14.66    11.76 
Total risk-based capital to risk-weighted assets   13.60    14.58    15.21    15.62    12.84 

 

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   At or for the Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)  2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
                     
KEY OPERATING RATIOS                         
Return on average assets   0.60%   0.58%   0.63%   0.69%   0.52%
Return on average total equity   7.09    6.21    5.69    7.49    6.42 
Return on average common equity   7.09    6.33    6.69    9.38    8.29 
Interest rate spread   3.35    3.48    3.55    3.45    3.18 
Net interest margin   3.48    3.60    3.68    3.56    3.31 
Efficiency ratio (2)   67.40    71.35    67.00    68.62    69.81 
Common dividend payout ratio   25.16    29.41    29.63    21.05    25.48 
Non-interest expense to average assets   2.37    2.60    2.56    2.56    2.47 
Net operating expense to average assets(3)   2.10    2.30    2.16    2.13    2.01 
Avg. int-earning assets to avg. int-bearing liabilities   117.56    117.71    118.83    114.57    111.56 
                          
SELECTED ASSET QUALITY DATA                         
Gross loans  $1,088,982   $918,894   $872,129   $808,240   $756,552 
Classified assets   39,246    43,346    54,022    56,880    58,595 
Allowance for loan losses   9,860    8,540    8,481    8,138    8,247 
Nonperforming loans (>=90 Days) (4)   7,705    10,740    10,263    11,170    8,717 
                          
Non-accrual loans (5)   8,374    11,433    10,263    15,451    13,141 
Accruing troubled debt restructures (TDRs) (6)   10,448    13,133    13,249    4,364    4,515 
Other Real Estate Owned (OREO)   7,763    9,449    5,883    6,797    6,891 
Non-accrual loans, OREO and TDRs  $26,585   $34,015   $29,395   $26,612   $24,547 
                          
SELECTED ASSET QUALITY RATIOS                         
Average total equity to average total assets   8.41%   9.35%   11.11%   9.16%   8.07%
Classified assets to total assets   2.94    3.79    4.99    5.56    5.97 
Classified assets to risk-based capital   26.13    30.19    39.30    43.11    59.02 
Allowance for loan losses to total loans   0.91    0.93    0.97    1.01    1.09 
Allowance for loan losses to nonperforming loans   127.97    79.52    82.64    72.86    94.78 
Net charge-offs to avg. outstanding loans   0.11    0.16    0.28    0.14    0.27 
Nonperforming loans to total loans   0.71    1.17    1.18    1.38    1.15 
Non-accrual loans to total loans   0.77    1.24    1.18    1.91    1.74 
Non-accrual loans and TDRs to total loans   1.73    2.67    2.70    2.45    2.33 
Non-accrual loans and OREO to total assets   1.21    1.83    1.49    2.17    2.04 
Non-accrual loans, OREO and TDRs to total assets   1.99    2.98    2.71    2.60    2.50 

 

 

(1) The Company had no intangible assets as of the dates indicated. Thus, tangible book value per share is the same as book value per share for each of the periods indicated.

 

(2) Efficiency ratio is noninterest expense divided by the sum of net interest income and noninterest income.

 

(3) Net operating expense is the sum of non-interest expense offset by non-interest income.

 

(4) Nonperforming loans include all loans that are 90 days or more delinquent.

 

(5) Non-accrual loans include all loans that are 90 days or more delinquent and loans that are non-accrual due to the operating results or cash flows of a customer.

 

(6) TDR loans include both non-accrual and accruing performing loans. All TDR loans are included in the calculation of asset quality financial ratios. Non-accrual TDR loans are included in the non-accrual balance and accruing TDR loans are included in the accruing TDR balance.

 

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Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This report contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions and may describe future plans, strategies and expectations of The Community Financial Corporation (the “Company”) and Community Bank of the Chesapeake (the “Bank”). These forward-looking statements are generally identified by use of the words “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project” or similar expressions.

 

The Company and the Bank’s ability to predict results or the actual effect of future plans or strategies is inherently uncertain. Factors that could have a material adverse effect on the operations of the Company and its subsidiaries include, but are not limited to, changes in interest rates, national and regional economic conditions, legislative and regulatory changes, monetary and fiscal policies of the U.S. government, including policies of the U.S. Treasury and the Federal Reserve Board, the quality and composition of the loan or investment portfolios, demand for loan products, deposit flows, competition, demand for financial services in the Company and the Bank’s market area, changes in real estate market values in the Company and the Bank’s market area, changes in relevant accounting principles and guidelines and cyber security risks. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Except as required by applicable law or regulation, the Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to release publicly the result of any revisions that may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of the statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

Critical accounting policies are defined as those that involve significant judgments and uncertainties and could potentially result in materially different results under different assumptions and conditions. The Company considers its determination of the allowance for loan losses, the valuation of foreclosed real estate and the valuation of deferred tax assets to be critical accounting policies.

 

The Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and the general practices of the United States banking industry. Application of these principles requires management to make estimates, assumptions and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. These estimates, assumptions and judgments are based on information available as of the date of the financial statements. Accordingly, as this information changes, the financial statements could reflect different estimates, assumptions and judgments. Certain policies inherently have a greater reliance on the use of estimates, assumptions and judgments and, as such, have a greater possibility of producing results that could be materially different than originally reported.

 

Estimates, assumptions and judgments are necessary when assets and liabilities are required to be recorded at fair value, when a decline in the value of an asset not carried on the financial statements at fair value warrants an impairment write-down or valuation reserve to be established or when an asset or liability needs to be recorded contingent upon a future event. Carrying assets and liabilities at fair value inherently results in more financial statement volatility. The fair values and the information used to record valuation adjustments for certain assets and liabilities are based either on quoted market prices or are provided by other third-party sources, when available. When these sources are not available, management makes estimates based upon what it considers to be the best available information.

 

Allowance for Loan Losses

The allowance for loan losses is an estimate of the losses that exist in the loan portfolio. The allowance is based on two principles of accounting: (1) Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 450 “Contingencies,” which requires that losses be accrued when they are probable of occurring and are estimable and (2) FASB ASC 310 “Receivables,” which requires that losses be accrued when it is probable that the Company will not collect all principal and interest payments according to the contractual terms of the loan. The loss, if any, is determined by the difference between the loan balance and the value of collateral, the present value of expected future cash flows and values observable in the secondary markets.

 

The allowance for loan loss balance is an estimate based upon management’s evaluation of the loan portfolio. The allowance includes a specific and a general component. The specific component consists of management’s evaluation of certain classified and non-accrual loans and their underlying collateral. Management assesses the ability of the borrower to repay the loan based upon all information available. Loans are examined to determine a specific allowance based upon the borrower’s payment history, economic conditions specific to the loan or borrower and other factors that would impact the borrower’s ability to repay the loan on its contractual basis. Depending on the assessment of the borrower’s ability to pay and the type, condition and value of collateral, management will establish an allowance amount specific to the loan.

 

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Management uses a risk scale to assign grades to commercial relationships, which include commercial real estate, residential rentals, construction and land development, commercial loans and commercial equipment loans. Commercial loan relationships with an aggregate exposure to the Bank of $750,000 or greater are risk rated. Residential first mortgages, home equity and second mortgages and consumer loans are monitored on an ongoing basis based on borrower payment history. Consumer loans and residential real estate loans are classified as unrated unless they are part of a larger commercial relationship that requires grading or are troubled debt restructures or nonperforming loans with an Other Assets Especially Mentioned or higher risk rating due to a delinquent payment history.

 

The Company’s commercial loan portfolio is periodically reviewed by regulators and independent consultants engaged by management.

 

In establishing the general component of the allowance, management analyzes non-impaired loans in the portfolio including changes in the amount and type of loans. This analysis reviews trends by portfolio segment in charge-offs, delinquency, classified loans, loan concentrations and the rate of portfolio segment growth. Qualitative factors also include an assessment of the current regulatory environment, the quality of credit administration and loan portfolio management and national and local economic trends. Based upon this analysis a loss factor is applied to each loan category and the Bank adjusts the loan loss allowance by increasing or decreasing the provision for loan losses.

 

Management has significant discretion in making the judgments inherent in the determination of the allowance for loan losses, including the valuation of collateral, assessing a borrower’s prospects of repayment and in establishing loss factors on the general component of the allowance. Changes in loss factors have a direct impact on the amount of the provision and on net income. Errors in management’s assessment of the global factors and their impact on the portfolio could result in the allowance not being adequate to cover losses in the portfolio, and may result in additional provisions. At December 31, 2016, the allowance for loan losses was $9.9 million or 0.91% of total loans. An increase or decrease in the allowance could result in a charge or credit to income before income taxes that materially impacts earnings. For additional information regarding the allowance for loan losses, refer to Notes 1 and 6 of the Consolidated Financial Statements and the discussion under the caption “Provision for Loan Losses” below.

 

Other Real Estate Owned (“OREO”)

The Company maintains a valuation allowance on its other real estate owned. As with the allowance for loan losses, the valuation allowance on OREO is based on FASB ASC 450 “Contingencies,” as well as the accounting guidance on impairment of long-lived assets. These statements require that the Company establish a valuation allowance when it has determined that the carrying amount of a foreclosed asset exceeds its fair value. Fair value of a foreclosed asset is measured by the cash flows expected to be realized from its subsequent disposition. These cash flows are reduced for the costs of selling or otherwise disposing of the asset.

 

In estimating the cash flows from the sale of OREO, management must make significant assumptions regarding the timing and amount of cash flows. For example, in cases where the real estate acquired is undeveloped land, management must gather the best available evidence regarding the market value of the property, including appraisals, cost estimates of development and broker opinions. Due to the highly subjective nature of this evidence, as well as the limited market, long time periods involved and substantial risks, cash flow estimates are highly subjective and subject to change. Errors regarding any aspect of the costs or proceeds of developing, selling or otherwise disposing of foreclosed real estate could result in the allowance being inadequate to reduce carrying costs to fair value and may require an additional provision for valuation allowances. For additional information regarding OREO, refer to Notes 1 and 8 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Deferred Tax Assets

The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with FASB ASC 740, “Income Taxes,” which requires that deferred tax assets and liabilities be recognized using enacted tax rates for the effect of temporary differences between the book and tax bases of recorded assets and liabilities. FASB ASC 740 requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some portion or the entire deferred tax asset will not be realized.

 

The Company periodically evaluates the ability of the Company to realize the value of its deferred tax assets.  If the Company were to determine that it was not more likely than not that the Company would realize the full amount of the deferred tax assets, it would establish a valuation allowance to reduce the carrying value of the deferred tax asset to the amount it believes would be realized. The factors used to assess the likelihood of realization are the Company’s forecast of future taxable income and available tax-planning strategies that could be implemented to realize the net deferred tax assets.

 

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Failure to achieve forecasted taxable income might affect the ultimate realization of the net deferred tax assets.  Factors that may affect the Company’s ability to achieve sufficient forecasted taxable income include, but are not limited to, the following: increased competition, a decline in net interest margin, a loss of market share, decreased demand for financial services and national and regional economic conditions.

 

The Company’s provision for income taxes and the determination of the resulting deferred tax assets and liabilities involve a significant amount of management judgment and are based on the best information available at the time. The Company operates within federal and state taxing jurisdictions and is subject to audit in these jurisdictions. For additional information regarding income taxes and deferred tax assets, refer to Notes 1 and 12 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

OVERVIEW

Community Bank of the Chesapeake (the “Bank”) is headquartered in Southern Maryland with branches located in Maryland and Virginia. The Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Community Financial Corporation (the “Company”). The Bank conducts business through its main office in Waldorf, Maryland, and 11 branch offices in Waldorf, Bryans Road, Dunkirk, Leonardtown, La Plata, Charlotte Hall, Prince Frederick, Lusby, California, Maryland; and Central Park and downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia. The Company opened its second branch in downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia in April 2016. The Company maintains five loan production offices (“LPOs”) in La Plata, Prince Frederick, Leonardtown and Annapolis, Maryland; and Fredericksburg, Virginia. The Leonardtown and Fredericksburg LPOs are co-located with branches.

 

During 2015, the Company made a number of strategic decisions to meet its longer-term objectives of increased profitability and increase shareholder value. The Company continued to execute its plans to improve asset quality and to increase transaction deposits, which consist of savings, money market, interest-bearing demand and noninterest bearing demand accounts. The Company sold its King George, Virginia branch building and equipment to a credit union. The Company’s 2015 third quarter operating results reflected the financial impact of the transaction. The Company recorded an impairment of $426,000 during the third quarter of 2015. The transaction closed on January 28, 2016.

 

In 2016, the Company planned to increase the loan portfolio by at least 10% and control expenses. Due to the low interest rate environment for most of 2016, and its effect on net interest margin, the Company continued restructuring of operations to reduce costs. In the first quarter of 2016, the Company completed a redesign of the branch system. This redesign, combined with the closure of the King George facility allowed the Company to reduce branch employees by 15% from 73 at March 31, 2015 to 62 at March 31, 2016. The Company focused on reducing other expenses by streamlining internal processes and FTEs as well as by reviewing vendor relationships. The Company’s cost control efforts and continued asset growth created operating leverage and increased its earnings per share, return on average assets and return on equity.

 

The initiative to increase operating leverage continued during 2016. The Company’s efficiency ratio improved in every quarter of 2016. The efficiency ratio improved from 73.67% for the fourth quarter of 2015 to 64.38% for the fourth quarter of 2016. Year over year, the efficiency ratio improved 395 basis points to 67.40% from 71.35% for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The rate of expense growth was controlled at 2.6% during 2016 compared to 8.3% expense growth in 2015.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2016 loan growth was very strong with end of period gross loans increasing $170.1 million, or 18.5% from $918.9 million at December 31, 2015 to $1,089.0 million at December 31, 2016. The increase in average loan balances resulted in net interest income growing faster than operating expenses. Net interest income increased $3.4 million or 9.2%, compared to noninterest expense growth of $741,000 or 2.6%. The Company has a strong pipeline and is optimistic that continued loan growth, paired with the expense control, should continue to increase operating leverage during 2017.

 

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The Bank has increased assets through loan production. The Bank believes that its ability to offer fast, flexible, local decision-making will continue to attract significant new business relationships. The Bank focuses its business generation efforts on targeting small and medium sized commercial businesses with revenues between $5.0 million and $35.0 million as well as local municipal agencies and not-for-profits. The Bank’s marketing is also directed towards increasing its balances of transactional deposit accounts, which are all deposit accounts other than certificates of deposit. The Bank believes that increases in these account types will lessen the Bank’s dependence on higher-cost funding, such as certificates of deposit and borrowings. Although management believes that this strategy will increase financial performance over time, increasing the balances of certain products, such as commercial lending and transaction accounts, may also increase the Bank’s noninterest expense. The Bank recognizes that certain lending and deposit products increase the possibility of losses from credit and other risks.

 

Economy

The U.S. economy grew slowly throughout 2016 and 2015. Gross domestic product grew at an annual rate of 1.6% during 2016, the slowest growth rate since 2011. The Federal Reserve has indicated through its survey of the Board of Governors that up to four rate increases were planned for 2016. During the beginning of 2016, due to a number world events and market disruptions, many economists reduced their forecasts for 2016 rate hikes from four down to two. During the year ended 2016, the Federal Reserve only raised the target federal funds rate one time at the December 15, 2016 meeting from 0.50% to 0.75%.

 

Interest rates were depressed for most of 2016, with the five and ten year U.S. Treasury rates falling to as low as 0.94%(July 2016) and 1.37% (July 2016). This had an impact on the Company’s net interest margin and asset yields, which declined during 2016. Lower Treasury and bond yields in the 5 to 10 year range during 2016 put negative pressure on the re-pricing of the loan portfolio and the pricing of new loans. The downward trend in treasury rates had a positive impact on local deposit pricing through the third quarter of 2016. The Company was able to offset margin compression with average interest-earning asset growth of $132.0 million or 13.0% to $1,145.5 million. During the fourth quarter of 2016, interest rates began to rise with both the five year and the ten year U.S. Treasury rates increasing to 1.93% and 2.45%, respectively as of December 30, 2016.

 

The presence of federal government agencies, as well as significant government facilities, and the related private sector support for these entities, has led to faster economic growth in our market compared to the nation as a whole. In addition, the Bank’s entry into the greater Annapolis and Fredericksburg markets has provided the Bank with additional loan and deposit opportunities. These opportunities have led to significant organic growth from 2014 thru 2016.

 

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COMPARISION OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016 AND 2015

Earnings Summary

Net income available to common shareholders for 2016 increased $1.0 million to $7.3 million, or 16.0%, compared to 2015. Diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) were $1.59 in 2016, an increase of $0.24 compared to 2015. The Company’s return on average assets was 0.60% in 2016, an increase of two basis points from 2015. The Company’s return on average common stockholders' equity was 7.09% in 2016, an increase of 76 basis points from 2015.

 

The Company has pursued a strategy of increasing operating leverage over the last several years. This occurs when the Company increases its assets, and by extension its net interest income, while limiting increases in noninterest expense. In order for this to be effective, the Company must simultaneously pursue the following; increase the asset size while maintaining asset quality, increase funding at an economically viable cost, and control noninterest expense growth.

 

Pretax operating income increased $1.7 million, or 17.8%, to $11.7 million in 2016 compared to $10.0 million in 2015.

 

§The increase in operating income and operating leverage in 2016 was primarily due to the following:

 

·Net interest income was $39.9 million in 2016 an increase of $3.4 million, or 9.2%, compared to 2015.

 

oInterest income increased $4.2 million. The increase was driven by increased average interest-earning assets including increased average loan balances. The Bank increased average net loan balances $114.1 million to $988.3 million in 2016 from $874.2 million in 2015. The effect of loan volume on interest income was partially offset by yield declines.

 

oInterest expense increased $797,000 which partially offset increased interest income. The primary reason for the increase in interest expense was larger average interest-bearing liability balances. The average balances of interest-bearing liabilities increased $113.4 million to $974.4 million in 2016 from $861.0 million in 2015.

 

The increase in interest expense was restrained by the Company’s cost of interest-bearing liabilities decreasing one basis point to 0.84% in 2016 compared to 0.85% in 2015. Further, the Company’s cost of funds, which includes noninterest-bearing funding, decreased two basis points from the comparable period to 0.73% for the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

·The Company controlled expense growth. Noninterest expense increased $741,000, or 2.6%, to $29.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the prior year.

 

During 2016 net operating expense as a percentage of average assets and the efficiency ratio declined (improved) compared to the prior year to 2.10% and 67.40%, respectively for the year ended December 31, 2016 from 2.30% and 71.35%, respectively for the year ended December 31, 2015. The net operating expense and efficiency ratios improved in each successive quarter during 2016. The Company’s net operating expense ratio improved to 1.98% for the three months ended December 31, 2016 from 2.38% for the three months ended December 31, 2015. The Company’s efficiency ratio improved to 64.38% for the three months ended December 31, 2016 from 73.67% for the three months ended December 31, 2015.

 

§The positive impact of operating leverage on operating income was partially offset by an increased loan loss provision.

 

The provision for loan losses increased $926,000 to $2.4 million in 2016 due primarily to loan growth. The additions to the provision for loan growth were partially offset by improvements to baseline charge-off factors for the periods used to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance as well as improvements in other qualitative factors, such as reductions in delinquency and classified assets.

 

A more detailed analysis comparing the results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 follows.

 

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Net Interest Income

The primary component of the Company’s net income is its net interest income, which is the difference between income earned on assets and interest paid on the deposits and borrowings used to fund them. Net interest income is affected by the difference between the yields earned on the Company’s interest-earning assets and the rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities, as well as the relative amounts of such assets and liabilities. Net interest income, divided by average interest-earning assets, represents the Company’s net interest margin.

 

Net interest income increased 9.2% or $3.4 million to $39.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to $36.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. Net interest margin at 3.48% for the year ended December 31, 2016 decreased 12 basis points from 3.60% for the year ended December 31, 2015. Average interest-earning assets were $1,145.5 million for the full year of 2016, an increase of $132.1 million, or 13.0%, compared to $1,013.4 million for the full year of 2015.

 

The following table shows the components of net interest income and the dollar and percentage changes for the periods presented.

 

   Years Ended December 31,         
(dollars in thousands )  2016   2015   $ Change   % Change 
Interest and Dividend Income                    
Loans, including fees  $44,919   $41,386   $3,533    8.5%
Taxable interest and dividends on investment securities   3,108    2,473    635    25.7%
Interest on deposits with banks   20    14    6    42.9%
Total Interest and Dividend Income   48,047    43,873    4,174    9.5%
                     
Interest Expenses                    
 Deposits   4,695    4,152    543    13.1%
 Short-term borrowings   196    37    159    429.7%
 Long-term debt   3,251    3,156    95    3.0%
Total Interest Expenses   8,142    7,345    797    10.9%
                     
Net Interest Income (NII)  $39,905   $36,528   $3,377    9.2%

 

Net interest income increased during 2016 compared to the prior year due to the negative impacts of declining loan yields being outpaced by the positive impacts of interest-earning asset growth, increased investment yields and a stable cost of funds.

 

The net interest margin was 3.48% for the year ended December 31, 2016, a 12 basis point decrease from 3.60% for the year ended December 31, 2015. Net interest margin declined during 2016, primarily due to reduced yields on loans. Yields on the loan portfolio decreased from 4.73% for the year ended December 31, 2015 to 4.55% for the year ended December 31, 2016. Yields were reduced compared to the prior year due to the Bank’s increased investment in residential mortgages, increased competition in the Bank’s market area and low intermediate term interest rates. Residential first mortgages increased from 14.30% of the loan portfolio at December 31, 2015 to 15.70% of the portfolio at December 31, 2016. The Bank’s commercial loan portfolios are primarily indexed to rates in the five to ten year range of U.S. Treasuries. These rates remained below 2015 average rates for most of 2016, with the ten year U.S. Treasury rate as low as 1.37% (July 8, 2016).

 

Net interest margin was positively impacted by a reduction in its cost of funds during 2016, which decreased two basis points from 0.75% for the year ended December 31, 2015 to 0.73% for the year ended December 31, 2016. The Company continued to make progress in controlling deposit costs by increasing transaction deposits as a percentage of overall deposits. Average transaction deposits, which include savings, money market, interest-bearing demand and noninterest bearing demand accounts, for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased $83.4 million, or 17.1%, to $571.6 million compared to $488.2 million for the comparable period in 2015. Average transaction accounts as a percentage of total deposits increased from 56.3% for the year ended December 31, 2015 to 58.3% for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase in average transaction deposits included growth in noninterest bearing demand deposits of $21.6 million, or 17.9%, from $120.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 to $142.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

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Interest and dividend income increased by $4.2 million to $48.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to $43.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily due to growth in the average balance of loans and investments. Interest and dividend income also increased due to increased investment yields. Interest and dividend income on loans increased $5.2 million due to growth of $114.1 million, or 13.1%, in the average balance of loans from $874.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 to $988.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. Interest and dividend income on investments increased $641,000 during 2016 compared to the prior year as average interest-earning investment balances increased $17.9 million and average yields increased from 1.79% to 1.99%. These increases to interest and dividend income were partially offset by decreased income from reduced yields on loans. Average loan yields declined 18 basis points from 4.73% for the year ended December 31, 2014 to 4.55% for the year ended December 31, 2015, which resulted in a decrease in interest and dividend income of $1.7 million.

 

Interest expense increased $797,000 to $8.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the year ended December 31, 2015 due to an increase in the average balances of interest-bearing liabilities and a change in the composition of interest-bearing liabilities between the comparable periods. During the year ended December 31, 2016, interest expense increased $718,000 due to larger average balances of interest-bearing transaction deposit accounts, time deposits, short-term borrowings and subordinated notes compared to the year ended December 31, 2015. Additionally, interest expense increased $282,000 due to increased rates on interest-bearing deposit accounts and debt. These increases to interest expense were partially offset by a reduction in interest expense of $203,000 due to a $8.4 million decrease in average long-term debt balances from the comparable period to $60.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The average rate paid on debt, which includes long-term debt, trust preferred junior subordinated debentures (“TRUPS”), subordinated notes, and short-term borrowings, decreased from 2.77% for the year ended December 31, 2015 to 2.55% for the year ended December 31, 2016. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2016 was $148,000 greater than the comparable period as a result of the timing of the funding of the subordinated notes in February 2015.

 

Changes in the components of net interest income due to changes in average balances of assets and liabilities and to changes caused by changes in interest rates are presented in the rate volume analysis included below. The table below presents information on average balances and rates for deposits.

 

   For the Years Ended December 31,     
   2016   2015 
   Average   Average   Average   Average 
(dollars in thousands)  Balance   Rate   Balance   Rate 
Savings  $48,878    0.08%  $44,963    0.10%
Interest-bearing demand and money market accounts   380,592    0.30%   322,717    0.28%
Certificates of deposit   409,621    0.86%   378,179    0.85%
Total interest-bearing deposits   839,091    0.56%   745,859    0.56%
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits   142,116         120,527      
   $981,207    0.48%  $866,386    0.48%

 

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The table below illustrates changes in interest income and interest expense of the Bank for the periods indicated. For each category of interest-earning asset and interest-bearing liability, information is provided on changes attributable to (1) changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by old rate); and (2) changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by old volume). Changes in rate-volume (changes in rate multiplied by the change in volume) have been allocated to changes due to volume.

 

   For the Year Ended December 31, 2016 
   compared to the Year Ended 
   December 31, 2015 
       Due to     
dollars in thousands  Volume   Rate   Total 
             
Interest income:               
Loan portfolio (1)  $5,186   $(1,653)  $3,533 
Investment securities, federal funds sold and interest bearing deposits   357    284    641 
Total interest-earning assets  $5,543   $(1,369)  $4,174 
                
Interest-bearing liabilities:               
Savings   3    (9)   (6)
Interest-bearing demand and money market accounts   172    52    224 
Certificates of deposit   271    54    325 
Long-term debt   (203)   102    (101)
Short-term borrowings   130    29    159 
Subordinated notes   142    6    148 
Guaranteed preferred beneficial interest in junior subordinated debentures   -    48    48 
Total interest-bearing liabilities  $515   $282   $797 
Net change in net interest income  $5,028   $(1,651)  $3,377 

 

(1) Average balance includes non-accrual loans

 

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The following table presents information on the average balances of the Company’s interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and interest earned or paid thereon for the past two fiscal years. There are no tax equivalency adjustments.

 

   For the Years Ended December 31, 
       2016           2015     
           Average           Average 
   Average       Yield/   Average       Yield/ 
dollars in thousands  Balance   Interest   Cost   Balance   Interest   Cost 
Assets                              
Interest-earning assets:                              
Commercial real estate  $602,648   $27,110    4.50%  $518,329   $24,053    4.64%
Residential first mortgages   151,366    6,041    3.99%   134,728    5,861    4.35%
Residential rentals   96,611    4,530    4.69%   88,251    4,084    4.63%
Construction and land development   36,938    1,693    4.58%   37,665    1,879    4.99%
Home equity and second mortgages   21,781    889    4.08%   21,332    872    4.09%
Commercial and equipment loans   87,705    4,622    5.27%   81,957    4,596    5.61%
Consumer loans   397    34    8.56%   465    41    8.82%
Allowance for loan losses   (9,157)   -    0.00%   (8,541)   -    0.00%
Loan portfolio (1)   988,289    44,919    4.55%   874,186    41,386    4.73%
Investment securities, federal funds sold and interest-bearing deposits   157,173    3,128    1.99%   139,256    2,487    1.79%
Total Interest-Earning Assets   1,145,462    48,047    4.19%   1,013,442    43,873    4.33%
Cash and cash equivalents   11,858              12,192           
Other assets   72,151              67,272           
Total Assets  $1,229,471             $1,092,906           
                               
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity                              
Interest-bearing liabilities:                              
Savings  $48,878   $39    0.08%  $44,963   $45    0.10%
Interest-bearing demand and money market accounts   380,592    1,128    0.30%   322,717    904    0.28%
Certificates of deposit   409,621    3,528    0.86%   378,179    3,203    0.85%
Long-term debt   60,503    1,456    2.41%   68,924    1,557    2.26%
Short-term borrowings   39,802    196    0.49%   13,463    37    0.27%
Subordinated Notes   23,000    1,438    6.25%   20,732    1,290    6.22%
Guaranteed preferred beneficial interest in junior subordinated debentures   12,000    357    2.98%   12,000    309    2.58%
Total Interest-Bearing Liabilities   974,396    8,142    0.84%   860,978    7,345    0.85%
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits   142,116              120,527           
Other liabilities   9,562              9,244           
Stockholders' equity   103,397              102,157           
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity  $1,229,471             $1,092,906           
Net interest income       $39,905             $36,528      
Interest rate spread             3.35%             3.48%
Net yield on interest-earning assets             3.48%             3.60%
Ratio of average interest-earning assets to average interest bearing liabilities             117.56%             117.71%
Cost of funds             0.73%             0.75%
Cost of deposits             0.48%             0.48%
Cost of debt             2.55%             2.77%

 

(1) Average balance includes non-accrual loans

 

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Provision for Loan Losses

The following table shows the dollar and percentage changes for the provision for loan losses for the periods presented.

 

   Years Ended December 31,         
(dollars in thousands )  2016   2015   $ Change   % Change 
 Provision for loan losses  $2,359   $1,433   $926    64.6%

 

The provision for loan losses increased $926,000 to $2.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 due primarily to loan growth. During the year ended December 31, 2016 end of period gross loans increased $170.1 million, or 18.5%, from $918.9 million at December 31, 2015 to $1,089.0 million at December 31, 2016. Net charge-offs decreased $335,000 from $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 to $1.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. Improvements to baseline charge-off factors for the periods used to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance as well as improvements in some qualitative factors, such as reductions in classified assets and delinquency, were offset by increases in other qualitative factors, such as increased loan growth. Overall, these changes resulted in a higher provision for loan losses for the comparable periods. The specific allowance is based on management’s estimate of realizable value for particular loans and has decreased as specific credits have been resolved through a return to performance, charge-offs or additions to OREO.

 

See further discussion of the provision under the caption “Asset Quality” in the Comparison of Financial Condition section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

 

Noninterest Income

The following table shows the components of noninterest income and the dollar and percentage changes for the periods presented.

 

   Years Ended December 31,         
(dollars in thousands )  2016   2015   $ Change   % Change 
Noninterest Income                    
Loan appraisal, credit, and miscellaneous charges  $289   $315   $(26)   (8.3)%
Gain on sale of asset   12    19    (7)   (36.8)%
Net losses on sale of OREO   (436)   (20)   (416)   2080.0%
Net gains on sale of investment securities   31    4    27    675.0%
Loss on premises and equipment held for sale   -    (426)   426    (100.0)%
Income from bank owned life insurance   789    815    (26)   (3.2)%
Service charges   2,675    2,488    187    7.5%
Gain on sale of loans held for sale   -    104    (104)   (100.0)%
Total Noninterest Income  $3,360   $3,299   $61    1.8%

 

Noninterest income increased by $61,000 to $3.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to $3.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. Noninterest income was up $187,000 compared to the prior year due to higher service charge income from the growth in the number of customer accounts, wealth services and rental income on other real estate owned (“OREO”) properties. In addition, there were no losses recognized in 2016 for the sale of branch assets. During the third quarter 2015, the Bank recorded an expense of $426,000 to account for the loss on the sale of the King George, Virginia branch building and equipment. These increases to noninterest income were partially offset by decreases to noninterest income from the Company’s exit from the origination of residential first mortgage loans during the second quarter of 2015. There were no gains on residential loans held for sale in the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to $104,000 for the year ended December 31, 2015. In addition, the Company recognized losses of $436,000 on the disposition of OREO for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to $20,000 in OREO losses recognized for the comparable period.

 

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Noninterest Expense

The following tables show the components of noninterest expense and the dollar and percentage changes for the periods presented.

 

   Years Ended December 31,         
(dollars in thousands )  2016   2015   $ Change   % Change 
Noninterest Expense                
Salary and employee benefits  $16,810   $16,366   $444    2.7%
Occupancy expense   2,488    2,427    61    2.5%
Advertising   647    583    64    11.0%
Data processing expense   2,267    2,044    223    10.9%
Professional fees   1,568    1,323    245    18.5%
Depreciation of furniture, fixtures, and equipment   812    810    2    0.2%
Telephone communications   174    188    (14)   (7.4)%
Office supplies   136    157    (21)   (13.4)%
FDIC Insurance   739    799    (60)   (7.5)%
OREO valuation allowance and expenses   861    1,059    (198)   (18.7)%
Other   2,657    2,662    (5)   (0.2)%
Total Noninterest Expense  $29,159   $28,418   $741    2.6%

 

   Years Ended December 31,         
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   $ Change   % Change 
Salary and employee benefits  $16,810   $16,366   $444    2.7%
OREO valuation allowance and expenses   861    1,059    (198)   (18.7)%
Other operating expenses   11,488    10,993    495    4.5%
Total Noninterest Expense  $29,159   $28,418   $741    2.6%

 

For the year ended December 31, 2016, noninterest expense was controlled at an average run rate of just below $7.3 million per quarter. Noninterest expense increased 2.6%, or $741,000, to $29.2 million in 2016 from $28.4 million for the comparable period in 2015. The Company remained focused during 2016 on controlling the growth of expenses by streamlining internal processes and reviewing vendor relationships. The Company’s strategy to create operating leverage through continued interest-earning asset growth combined with controlling the growth in expenses is expected to continue during 2017. The Company’s efficiency ratio for the year ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 was 67.40% and 71.35%, respectively. The Company’s noninterest expense ratio as a percentage of average assets for the year ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 was 2.37% and 2.60%, respectively.

 

The Company’s 2016 total growth in salary and benefit costs was 2.7% or $444,000 compared to 3.2% or $515,000 of growth during 2015. Salary and benefit costs have increased from the comparable period as incentive compensation has increased due to interest-earning asset growth as well as higher self-insured health insurance claims. The Company has controlled the growth of salary and benefit costs by restructuring our branch organization and better aligning incentives with Company performance. These efforts resulted in a reduction in nine FTEs from 171 employees at December 31, 2015 to 162 employees at December 31, 2016.

 

Data processing costs have increased primarily due to the increased asset size of the Bank, and included the addition of new products and services for commercial customers. Professional fees increased over the prior year due to increased costs of proxy related activities and the Bank’ increased investment in risk management, including cyber-security and internal audit functions.

 

Income Tax Expense

For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company recorded income tax expense of $4.4 million and $3.6 million, respectively. The Company’s effective tax rates for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were 37.59% and 36.42%, respectively. The increase in the effective tax rate was the result of tax-exempt income being relatively lower to total income and an increase in state income taxes due to higher Bank net income for 2016 compared to 2015.

 

51 

 

 

COMPARISION OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015 AND 2014

 

Earnings Summary

Net income available to common shareholders for 2015 was stable compared to the prior year increasing $30,000 to $6.3 million, or 0.5%, compared to 2014. Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) were $1.36 in 2015, an increase of $0.01 compared to 2014. The Company’s return on average assets was 0.58% in 2015, a decrease of five basis points from 2014. The Company’s return on average common stockholders' equity was 6.33% in 2015, a decrease of 36 basis points from 2014.

 

Pretax operating income decreased $290,000 to $10.0 million in 2015 compared to $10.3 million in 2014.

 

The small decrease in operating income in 2015 was primarily due to the following:

 

·Noninterest income decreased $794,000 to $3.3 million for 2015 compared to 2014. The decrease was due to the loss on the sale of the King George, Virginia branch, lower gains on mortgage loan sales due to the Bank exiting the residential mortgage origination line of business and a reduction in gains on the sale of OREO. These reductions in noninterest income were partially offset by increased service charge and BOLI income

 

·Noninterest expense increased $2.2 million, or 8.3%, to $28.4 million for 2015 compared to 2014. The largest impact on the growth of expenses was an increase in OREO charges and an insurance settlement claim adjustment. Employee compensation, data processing and professional fees increased to support the growth of the Bank and increased compliance costs. Specifically, professional fees increased to support the February 2015 subordinated notes issuance and infrastructure investments in enterprise risks, interest rate risks, vendor risk management, customer information risks and cyber security risks.

 

The Company’s noninterest expenses for 2015, excluding OREO charges and the title insurance settlement claim adjustment, were $27.2 million which represents a $1.3 million, or 5.1%, increase over the comparable $25.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. With these adjustments, noninterest expense as a percentage of average assets decreased three basis points from 2.52% for the year ended December 31, 2014 to 2.49% for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

The increased expenses were partially offset by the following positive increases to revenues:

 

·Net interest income was $36.5 million in 2015, an increase of $1.5 million, or 4.2%, compared to 2014.

 

oInterest income increased $2.1 million. The increase was driven by increased loan average balances. The Bank increased average net loan balances $54.8 million to $874.2 million in 2015 from $819.4 million in 2014. Loan volume was partially offset by yield declines.

 

oInterest expense increased $647,000 which partially offset increased interest income. The primary reason for the increase related to the $23.0 million 6.25% subordinated notes issued during the first quarter of 2015. Continued progress in continuing to add transaction deposits mitigated some of the impact of the increased interest expense associated with the subordinated notes. Overall deposit cost decreased by eight basis points to 0.48% compared to the prior year.

 

·The provision for loan losses decreased $1.2 million to $1.4 million in 2015 due primarily to improvements to baseline charge-off factors for the periods used to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance as well as improvements in other qualitative factors, such as reductions in classified assets.

 

A more detailed analysis comparing the results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 follows.

 

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Net Interest Income

The primary component of the Company’s net income is its net interest income, which is the difference between income earned on assets and interest paid on the deposits and borrowings used to fund them. Net interest income is affected by the difference between the yields earned on the Company’s interest-earning assets and the rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities, as well as the relative amounts of such assets and liabilities. Net interest income, divided by average interest-earning assets, represents the Company’s net interest margin.

 

Net interest income increased to $36.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to $35.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The net interest margin was 3.60% for the year ended December 31, 2015, an eight basis point decrease from 3.68% for the year ended December 31, 2014. The decrease in net interest margin was largely the result of additional interest expense related to the subordinated notes issued during the first quarter of 2015. The following table shows the components of net interest income and the dollar and percentage changes for the periods presented.

 

   Years Ended December 31,         
(dollars in thousands )  2015   2014   $ Change   % Change 
Interest and Dividend Income                    
Loans, including fees  $41,386   $39,475   $1,911    4.8%
Taxable interest and dividends on investment securities   2,473    2,270    203    8.9%
Interest on deposits with banks   14    14    -    0.0%
Total Interest and Dividend Income   43,873    41,759    2,114    5.1%
                     
Interest Expenses                    
Deposits   4,152    4,586    (434)   (9.5)%
Short-term borrowings   37    12    25    208.3%
Long-term debt   3,156    2,100    1,056    50.3%
Total Interest Expenses   7,345    6,698    647    9.7%
                     
Net Interest Income (NII)  $36,528   $35,061   $1,467    4.2%

 

Interest and dividend income increased by $2.1 million to $43.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to $41.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, primarily due to increased income from the growth in the average balance of loans. Interest and dividend income on loans increased $2.6 million due to growth of $54.8 million in the average balance of loans from $819.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 to $874.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. Interest and dividend income on investments increased $203,000 during 2015 compared to the prior year as average interest-earning investment balances increased $4.7 million and average yields increased from 1.70% to 1.79%. These increases to interest income were partially offset by reduced yields on loans. Average loan yields declined nine basis points from 4.82% for the year ended December 31, 2014 to 4.73% for the year ended December 31, 2015, which resulted in a decrease in interest income of $684,000.

 

Interest expense increased $647,000 to $7.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to the year ended December 31, 2014 due primarily to an increase in interest expense related to the subordinated notes issued during the first quarter of 2015. The average cost of total interest-bearing liabilities was 0.85% for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to 0.83% for the year ended December 31, 2014. During the year ended December 31, 2015, interest expense increased $1.3 million due to the subordinated note issuance and larger short-term debt balances and $119,000 due to increased average balances of interest-bearing transaction deposit accounts compared to the same twelve months of 2014. Additionally, interest expense increased $35,000 on money market accounts, as rates increased modestly from 0.27% to 0.28%. The increases to interest expense were partially offset by reductions of $228,000 due to lower average balances of long-term debt and time deposits and $594,000 due to net decreases in rates paid on time deposits and long-term debt. The average rate paid on debt, which includes long-term debt, TRUPS, subordinated notes, and short-term borrowings, increased from 2.32% for the year ended December 31, 2014 to 2.77% for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

53 

 

 

The Company continued to make progress in reducing overall deposit costs by increasing transaction deposits as a percentage of overall deposits. Average transaction accounts as a percentage of average deposits increased from 52.0% for the year ended December 31, 2014 to 56.4% for the year ended December 31, 2015. Deposit costs declined eight basis points from 0.56% for the year ended December 31, 2014 to 0.48% for the year ended December 31, 2015. Average transaction deposits for the year ended December 31, 2015 increased $65.4 million, or 15.5%, to $488.2 million compared to $422.9 million for the comparable period in 2014. The increase in average transaction deposits included growth in average noninterest bearing demand deposits of $19.7 million, or 19.6%, from $100.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 to $120.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 making the Company less dependent on time deposits for funding. In the year ended December 31, 2015, the progress in continuing to add transaction deposits mitigated some of the impact of the increased interest expense associated with the subordinated notes.

 

Changes in the components of net interest income due to changes in average balances of assets and liabilities and to changes caused by changes in interest rates are presented in the rate volume analysis included below. The table below presents information on average balances and rates for deposits.

 

   For the Years Ended December 31,     
   2015   2014 
   Average   Average   Average   Average 
(dollars in thousands)  Balance   Rate   Balance   Rate 
Savings  $44,963    0.10%  $40,104    0.10%
Interest-bearing demand and money market accounts   322,717    0.28%   281,960    0.27%
Certificates of deposit   378,179    0.85%   389,641    0.97%
Total interest-bearing deposits   745,859    0.56%   711,705    0.64%
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits   120,527         100,783      
   $866,386    0.48%  $812,488    0.56%

 

The table below illustrates changes in interest income and interest expense of the Bank for the periods indicated. For each category of interest-earning asset and interest-bearing liability, information is provided on changes attributable to (1) changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by old rate); and (2) changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by old volume). Changes in rate-volume (changes in rate multiplied by the change in volume) have been allocated to changes due to volume.

 

   For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 
   compared to the Year Ended 
   December 31, 2014 
       Due to     
dollars in thousands  Volume   Rate   Total 
             
Interest income:               
Loan portfolio (1)  $2,595   $(684)  $1,911 
Investment securities, federal funds sold and interest bearing deposits   84    119    203 
Total interest-earning assets  $2,679   $(565)  $2,114 
                
Interest-bearing liabilities:               
Savings   5    -    5 
Interest-bearing demand and money market accounts   114    35    149 
Certificates of deposit   (97)   (491)   (588)
Long-term debt   (131)   (100)   (231)
Short-term borrowings   25    -    25 
Subordinated notes   1,290    -    1,290 
Guaranteed preferred beneficial interest in junior subordinated debentures   -    (3)   (3)
Total interest-bearing liabilities  $1,206   $(559)  $647 
Net change in net interest income  $1,473   $(6)  $1,467 

 

(1) Average balance includes non-accrual loans

 

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The following table presents information on the average balances of the Company’s interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and interest earned or paid thereon for the past two fiscal years. There are no tax equivalency adjustments.

 

   For the Years Ended December 31, 
       2015           2014     
           Average           Average 
   Average       Yield/   Average       Yield/ 
dollars in thousands  Balance   Interest   Cost   Balance   Interest   Cost 
Assets                              
Interest-earning assets:                              
Commercial real estate  $518,329   $24,053    4.64%  $460,014   $22,245    4.84%
Residential first mortgages   134,728    5,861    4.35%   148,367    6,576    4.43%
Residential rentals   88,251    4,084    4.63%   75,104    3,495    4.65%
Construction and land development   37,665    1,879    4.99%   29,921    1,401    4.68%
Home equity and second mortgages   21,332    872    4.09%   21,426    902    4.21%
Commercial and equipment loans   81,957    4,596    5.61%   92,199    4,800    5.21%
Consumer loans   465    41    8.82%   701    56    7.99%
Allowance for loan losses   (8,541)   -    0.00%   (8,351)   -    0.00%
Loan portfolio (1)   874,186    41,386    4.73%   819,381    39,475    4.82%
Investment securities, federal funds sold and interest-bearing deposits   139,256    2,487    1.79%   134,552    2,284    1.70%
Total Interest-Earning Assets   1,013,442    43,873    4.33%   953,933    41,759    4.38%
Cash and cash equivalents   12,192              11,979           
Other assets   67,272              60,530           
Total Assets  $1,092,906             $1,026,442           
                               
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity                              
Interest-bearing liabilities:                              
Savings  $44,963   $45    0.10%  $40,104   $40    0.10%
Interest-bearing demand and money market accounts   322,717    904    0.28%   281,960    755    0.27%
Certificates of deposit   378,179    3,203    0.85%   389,641    3,791    0.97%
Long-term debt   68,924    1,557    2.26%   74,714    1,788    2.39%
Short-term borrowings   13,463    37    0.27%   4,344    12    0.28%
Subordinated Notes   20,732    1,290    6.22%   -    -    0.00%
Guaranteed preferred beneficial interest   -    -         -    -      
in junior subordinated debentures   12,000    309    2.58%   12,000    312    2.60%
                               
Total Interest-Bearing Liabilities   860,978    7,345    0.85%   802,763    6,698    0.83%
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits   120,527              100,783           
Other liabilities   9,244              8,899           
Stockholders' equity   102,157              113,997           
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity  $1,092,906             $1,026,442           
Net interest income       $36,528             $35,061      
Interest rate spread             3.48%             3.55%
Net yield on interest-earning assets             3.60%             3.68%
Ratio of average interest-earning assets to average interest bearing liabilities             117.71%             118.83%
Cost of funds             0.75%             0.74%
Cost of deposits             0.48%             0.56%
Cost of debt             2.77%             2.32%

 

(1) Average balance includes non-accrual loans

 

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Provision for Loan Losses

The following table shows the dollar and percentage changes for the provision for loan losses for the periods presented.

 

 

   Years Ended December 31,         
(dollars in thousands )  2015   2014   $ Change   % Change 
Provision for loan losses  $1,433   $2,653   $(1,220)   (46.0)%

 

The provision for loan losses decreased $1.2 million to $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to $2.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Net charge-offs decreased $936,000 from $2.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 to $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The effects of these charge-offs were mitigated by improvements to baseline charge-off factors for the periods used to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance as well as improvements in other qualitative factors, such as reductions in classified assets.

 

In 2014 greater than 50% of net charge-offs were the result of concessions granted on two loan relationships during the fourth quarter of 2014. As a result of these concessions, the Bank determined that the loans were TDRs. As such, the loans became impaired and were evaluated for impairment in accordance with Bank policy. The first loan relationship, which totaled $8.6 million, consisted of commercial real estate and construction loans. The borrower agreed to provide additional collateral to cover most of the deficiency determined as a result of the impairment analysis and the Bank charged-off $500,000 in principal. The carrying value of the loans at December 31, 2015 and 2014 were $8.1 million and $8.2 million, respectively. The second loan relationship, which totaled approximately $3.8 million, consisted of construction and land development and commercial loans. As a result of the concessions granted and the impairment analysis, the Bank charged-off $843,000 and took 11 finished residential lots into other real estate owned (“OREO”). At December 31, 2015 and 2014, the carrying value of the loans and the OREO were $1.4 million and $1.9 million, respectively and $486,000 and $757,000, respectively.

 

See further discussion of the provision under the caption “Asset Quality” in the Comparison of Financial Condition section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

 

Noninterest Income

The following table shows the components of noninterest income and the dollar and percentage changes for the periods presented.

 

   Years Ended December 31,         
(dollars in thousands )  2015   2014   $ Change   % Change 
Noninterest Income                    
Loan appraisal, credit, and miscellaneous charges  $315   $368   $(53)   (14.4)%
Gain on sale of asset   19    7    12    171.4%
Net (losses) gains on sale of OREO   (20)   322    (342)   (106.2)%
Net (losses) gains on sale of investment securities   4    19    (15)   (78.9)%
Loss on premises and equipment held for sale   (426)   -    (426)   n/a 
Income from bank owned life insurance   815    671    144    21.5%
Service charges   2,488    2,213    275    12.4%
Gain on sale of loans held for sale   104    493    (389)   (78.9)%
Total Noninterest Income  $3,299   $4,093   $(794)   (19.4)%

 

Noninterest income decreased by $794,000 for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to the year ended December 31, 2014 primarily due to a decrease in income from residential loan sales, a reduction in OREO gains on disposals, and the one-time expense to record a provision for the loss on the sale of the King George, Virginia branch building and equipment. The reduction in loans held for sale reflected the Company’s exit from residential loan origination line of business during the second quarter of 2015 and there were no loans sales during the last six months of 2015.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Bank recognized $20,000 in losses on the sale of OREO which consisted of the sale of eight properties for net proceeds of $1.2 million. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Bank recognized $322,000 in gains on the sale of OREO which consisted of the sale of eight properties for net proceeds of $3.7 million, which included the financing of $1.0 million on a residential subdivision that was transferred from OREO to loans during the fourth quarter of 2014. The contracted sale price of $1.4 million on the residential subdivision qualified for full accrual sales treatment under ASC Topic 360-20-40 “Property Plant and Equipment – Derecognition”.

 

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The Company agreed to sell its King George, Virginia branch building and equipment to a credit union. The transaction closed on January 28, 2016. Operating results for the year ended December 31, 2015 reflect a one-time $426,000 pre-tax provision for the loss on the transaction with a $0.05 impact to earnings per share. The elimination of the estimated direct annual operating costs of the King George branch had an accretive impact on earnings per share in 2016 with the expected earn back period of less than 10 months.

 

These reductions in noninterest income were partially offset by increased service charges and BOLI income for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to the prior year. Service charges increased $275,000 compared to the prior year primarily due to additional product offerings offered to the Bank’s commercial customers. BOLI increased $144,000 for the comparable period because the Company made an additional investment of $7.0 million in BOLI during the third quarter of 2014.

 

Noninterest Expense

The following tables show the components of noninterest expense and the dollar and percentage changes for the periods presented.

 

   Years Ended December 31,         
(dollars in thousands )  2015   2014   $ Change   % Change 
Noninterest Expense                    
Salary and employee benefits  $16,366   $15,851   $515    3.2%
Occupancy expense   2,427    2,371    56    2.4%
Advertising   583    545    38    7.0%
Data processing expense   2,044    1,556    488    31.4%
Professional fees   1,323    1,129    194    17.2%
Depreciation of furniture, fixtures, and equipment   810    753    57    7.6%
Telephone communications   188    185    3    1.6%
Office supplies   157    204    (47)   (23.0)%
FDIC Insurance   799    709    90    12.7%
OREO valuation allowance and expenses   1,059    386    673    174.4%
Other   2,662    2,546    116    4.6%
Total Noninterest Expense  $28,418   $26,235   $2,183    8.3%

 

   Years Ended December 31,         
(dollars in thousands)  2015   2014   $ Change   % Change 
Compensation and Benefits  $16,366   $15,851   $515    3.2%
OREO Valuation Allowance and Expenses   1,059    386    673    174.4%
Operating Expenses   10,993    9,998    995    10.0%
Total Noninterest Expense  $28,418   $26,235   $2,183    8.3%

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, noninterest expense increased 8.3%, or $2.2 million, to $28.4 million from $26.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The Company’s noninterest expense of $28.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 included OREO expenses of $1.1 million and a $200,000 reduction in an insurance settlement claim receivable. The Company’s noninterest expense for 2015, excluding OREO charges and the insurance settlement claim, was $27.2 million which represents a $1.3 million, or 5.1%, increase over the comparable $25.9 million for the year end December 31, 2014.

 

Noninterest expense as a percentage of average assets for the year ended December 31, 2015 was 2.60% compared to 2.56% for the year ended December 31, 2014. The Company’s ratio decreased three basis points during 2015, excluding OREO charges and the insurance settlement claim adjustment, to 2.49% for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to 2.52% for the year ended December 31, 2014. Compensation and benefits increased 3.2% or $515,000 compared to the same period in the prior year. The Company has controlled the growth of salary and benefit costs by restructuring our branch organization and better aligning incentives with Company performance. The Company is continuing to work to slow the growth of noninterest expenses as a percentage of average assets based on current expansion plans and a greater ability to increase efficiencies as a result of our larger asset size.

 

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The Company’s efficiency ratio for the year ended December 31, 2015 was 71.35% compared to 67.00% for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the impact of the one-time loss provision on the sale of the King George branch, OREO expenses, OREO gains and losses and the insurance claim, the adjusted efficiency ratio for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 was 67.44% and 66.57%, respectively.

 

Income Tax Expense

For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company recorded income tax expense of $3.6 million and $3.8 million, respectively. The Company’s effective tax rates for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were 36.42% and 36.78%, respectively. The decrease in the effective tax rate was the result of tax-exempt income being relatively higher to total income for 2015 compared to 2014.

 

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COMPARISION OF FINANCIAL CONDITON AT DECEMBER 31, 2016 AND 2015

Assets

Total assets at December 31, 2016 were $1.33 billion, an increase of $190.9 million, or 16.7% compared to total assets of $1.14 billion at December 31, 2015. The increase in total assets was primarily attributable to growth in loans. Net loans increased $170.3 million, or 18.7%, from $909.2 million at December 31, 2015 to $1,079.5 million at December 31, 2016, mainly due to increases in loans secured by commercial real estate and residential first mortgages. The increase in total assets was primarily attributable to growth in securities and loans partially offset by declines in cash.

 

The following table shows the Company’s assets and the dollar and percentage changes for the periods presented.

 

(dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015   $ Change   % Change 
                 
Cash and due from banks  $9,948   $9,059   $889    9.8%
Federal funds sold   -    225    (225)   (100.0)%
Interest-bearing deposits with banks   1,315    1,855    (540)   (29.1)%
Securities available for sale (AFS), at fair value   53,033    35,116    17,917    51.0%
Securities held to maturity (HTM), at amortized cost   109,247    109,420    (173)   (0.2)%
FHLB and FRB stock - at cost   7,235    6,931    304    4.4%
Loans receivable - net of ALLL   1,079,519    909,200    170,319    18.7%
Premises and equipment, net   22,205    20,156    2,049    10.2%
Premises and equipment held for sale   345    2,000    (1,655)   (82.8)%
Other real estate owned (OREO)   7,763    9,449    (1,686)   (17.8)%
Accrued interest receivable   3,979    3,218    761    23.6%
Investment in bank owned life insurance   28,625    27,836    789    2.8%
Other assets   11,043    8,867    2,176    24.5%
Total Assets  $1,334,257   $1,143,332   $190,925    16.7%

 

The differences in allocations between the cash and investment categories reflect operational needs. Net loans increased $46.8 million from $862.4 million at December 31, 2014 to $909.2 million at December 31, 2015, due primarily to increases in loans for commercial real estate. Details of the Company’s loan portfolio are presented below:

 

(dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2016   %   December 31, 2015   % 
                 
Commercial real estate  $667,105    61.25%  $538,888    58.64%
Residential first mortgages   171,004    15.70%   131,401    14.30%
Residential rentals   101,897    9.36%   93,157    10.14%
Construction and land development   36,934    3.39%   36,189    3.94%
Home equity and second mortgages   21,399    1.97%   21,716    2.36%
Commercial loans   50,484    4.64%   67,246    7.32%
Consumer loans   422    0.04%   366    0.04%
Commercial equipment   39,737    3.65%   29,931    3.26%
    1,088,982    100.00%   918,894    100.00%
Less:                    
Deferred loan fees and premiums   (397)   -0.04%   1,154    0.13%
Allowance for loan losses   9,860    0.91%   8,540    0.93%
    9,463         9,694      
   $1,079,519        $909,200      

 

Prior to April 1, 2016, loans secured by residential rental property were included in the residential first mortgage and commercial real estate loan portfolios. Beginning in the second quarter of 2016, the Company segregated loans secured by residential rental property into a new loan portfolio segment. Residential rental property includes income producing properties comprising 1-4 family units and apartment buildings. The Company’s decision to segregate the residential rental property portfolio for financial reporting was based on the growth and size of the portfolio and risk characteristics unique to residential rental properties. Comparative financial information was reclassified to conform to the classification presented in 2016.

 

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Asset Quality

 

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)  December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015   $ Change   % Change 
                 
SELECTED ASSET QUALITY DATA                    
Gross loans  $1,088,982   $918,894   $170,088    18.5%
Classified assets   39,246    43,346    (4,100)   (9.5)
Allowance for loan losses   9,860    8,540    1,320    15.5 
Nonperforming loans (>=90 Days) (1)   7,705    10,740    (3,035)   (28.3)
                     
Non-accrual loans (2)   8,374    11,433    (3,059)   (26.8)
Accruing troubled debt restructures (TDRs) (3)   10,448    13,133    (2,685)   (20.4)
Other Real Estate Owned (OREO)   7,763    9,449    (1,686)   (17.8)
Non-accrual loans, OREO and TDRs  $26,585   $34,015    (7,430)   (21.8)
                     
SELECTED ASSET QUALITY RATIOS                    
Average total equity to average total assets   8.41%   9.35%          
Classified assets to total assets   2.94    3.79           
Classified assets to risk-based capital   26.13    30.19           
Allowance for loan losses to total loans   0.91    0.93           
Allowance for loan losses to nonperforming loans   127.97    79.52           
Net charge-offs to avg. outstanding loans   0.11    0.16           
Nonperforming loans to total loans   0.71    1.17           
Non-accrual loans to total loans   0.77    1.24           
Non-accrual loans and TDRs to total loans   1.73    2.67           
Non-accrual loans and OREO to total assets   1.21    1.83           
Non-accrual loans, OREO and TDRs to total assets   1.99    2.98           

 

 

 

(1) Nonperforming loans include all loans that are 90 days or more delinquent.

 

(2) Non-accrual loans include all loans that are 90 days or more delinquent and loans that are non-accrual due to the operating results or cash flows of a customer.

 

(3) TDR loans include both non-accrual and accruing performing loans. All TDR loans are included in the calculation of asset quality financial ratios. Non-accrual TDR loans are included in the non-accrual balance and accruing TDR loans are included in the accruing TDR balance.

 

The Company continues to pursue its approach of maximizing contractual rights with individual classified customer relationships. The objective is to move non-performing or substandard credits that are not likely to become performing or passing credits in a reasonable timeframe off the balance sheet. The Company is encouraging existing classified customers to obtain financing with other lenders or enforcing its contractual rights. Management believes this strategy is in the best long-term interest of the Company. As a result of these efforts, non-accrual loans and OREO to total assets decreased 62 basis points from 1.83% at December 31, 2015 to 1.21% at December 31, 2016. Non-accrual loans, OREO and TDRs to total assets decreased $7.4 million or 99 basis points from $34.0 million or 2.98%, at December 31, 2015 to $26.6 million or 1.99%, at December 31, 2016.

 

Management considers classified assets to be an important measure of asset quality. Classified assets have been trending downward the last several years from a high point of greater than $81.9 million at December 31, 2011. Classified assets decreased $4.1 million or 9.5% during 2016 from $43.3 million at December 31, 2015 to $39.2 million as of December 31, 2016.

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The following is a breakdown of the Company’s classified and special mention assets at December 31, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively:

 

Classified Assets and Special Mention Assets

 

(dollars in thousands)  As of
12/31/2016
   As of
12/31/2015
   As of
12/31/2014
   As of
12/31/2013
   As of
12/31/2012
 
Classified loans                         
Substandard  $30,463   $31,943   $46,735   $47,645   $48,676 
Doubtful   137    861    -    -    - 
Loss   -    -    -    -    - 
Total classified loans   30,600    32,804    46,735    47,645    48,676 
Special mention loans   -    1,642    5,460    9,246    6,092 
Total classified and special mention  $30,600   $34,446   $52,195   $56,891   $54,768 
                          
Classified loans   30,600    32,804    46,735    47,645    48,676 
Classified securities   883    1,093    1,404    2,438    3,028 
Other real estate owned   7,763    9,449    5,883    6,797    6,891 
Total classified assets  $39,246   $43,346   $54,022   $56,880   $58,595 
                          
Total classified assets as a percentage of total assets   2.94%   3.79%   4.99%   5.56%   5.97%
Total classified assets as a percentage of Risk Based Capital   26.13%   30.19%   39.30%   43.11%   59.02%

 

Non-accrual loans (90 days or greater delinquent and non-accrual only loans) decreased $3.0 million from $11.4 million or 1.24% of total loans at December 31, 2015 to $8.4 million or 0.77% of total loans at December 31, 2016. Non-accrual only loans are loans classified as non-accrual due to customer operating results or payment history. In accordance with the Company’s policy, interest income is recognized on a cash basis for these loans. Non-accrual loans at December 31, 2016 included $6.4 million, or 77% of non-accrual loans, attributed to 15 loans representing six customer relationships classified as substandard. Non-accrual loans at December 31, 2015 included $8.1 million, or 71% of non-accrual loans, attributed to 19 loans representing six customer relationships classified as substandard. Non-accrual loans included six troubled debt restructures (“TDRs”) totaling $4.4 million at December 31, 2016 and seven TDRs totaling $5.4 million at December 31, 2015. These loans are classified solely as non-accrual loans for the calculation of financial ratios.

 

Loan delinquency (90 days or greater delinquent and 31-89 days delinquent) decreased $2.9 million from $11.7 million, or 1.27% of loans, at December 31, 2015 to $8.7 million, or 0.80% of loans, at December 31, 2016.

 

TDRs decreased $3.4 million from $18.6 million at December 31, 2015 to $15.1 million at December 31, 2016. TDRs that are included in non-accrual are classified solely as non-accrual loans for the calculation of financial ratios. The Company had specific reserves of $844,000 on nine TDRs totaling $5.7 million at December 31, 2016 and $1.3 million on nine TDRs totaling $3.6 million at December 31, 2015. The following is a breakdown by loan classification of the Company’s TDRs at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

 

   December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015 
(dollars in thousands)  Dollars   Number
of Loans
   Dollars   Number
of Loans
 
                 
Commercial real estate  $9,587    8   $9,839    8 
Residential first mortgages   545    2    881    3 
Residential rentals   227    1    2,058    5 
Construction and land development   3,777    4    4,283    4 
Commercial loans   872    5    1,384    8 
Commercial equipment   113    2    123    2 
Total TDRs  $15,121    22   $18,568    30 
Less: TDRs included in non-accrual loans   (4,673)   (6)   (5,435)   (7)
Total accrual TDR loans  $10,448    16   $13,133    23 

 

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The OREO balance was $7.8 million at December 31, 2016, a decrease of $1.7 million compared to $9.4 million at December 31, 2015. This decrease consisted of additions of $3.1 million offset by valuation allowances of $574,000 to adjust properties to current appraised values, $3.9 million in disposals and transfers of $372,000 to premises. OREO carrying amounts reflect management’s estimate of the realizable value of these properties incorporating current appraised values, local real estate market conditions and related costs.

 

The allowance for loan losses was 0.91% of gross loans at December 31, 2016 and 0.93% at December 31, 2015. Management’s determination of the adequacy of the allowance is based on a periodic evaluation of the portfolio with consideration given to: overall loss experience; current economic conditions; size, growth and composition of the loan portfolio; financial condition of the borrowers; current appraised values of underlying collateral and other relevant factors that, in management’s judgment, warrant recognition in determining an adequate allowance. Improvements to baseline charge-off factors (or historical loss experience factor) for the periods used to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance as well as improvements in some qualitative factors, such as reductions in classified assets and delinquency, were offset by increases in other qualitative factors, such as increased loan growth. The specific allowance is based on management’s estimate of realizable value for particular loans. Management believes that the allowance is adequate. The following is a breakdown of the Company’s general and specific allowances as a percentage of gross loans at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively:

 

(dollar in thousands)  December 31, 2016   % of Gross
Loans
   December 31, 2015   % of Gross
Loans
 
                 
General Allowance  $8,571    0.79%  $6,932    0.75%
Specific Allowance   1,289    0.12%   1,608    0.17%
Total Allowance  $9,860    0.91%  $8,540    0.93%

 

The historical loss experience factor is tracked over various time horizons for each portfolio segment. The following table provides a five-year trend of net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans.

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
Average loans  $988,289   $874,186   $819,381   $741,369   $719,798 
Net charge-offs   1,039    1,374    2,309    1,049    1,937 
Net charge-offs to average loans   0.11%   0.16%   0.28%   0.14%   0.27%

 

At December 31, 2016, 99%, or $156.9 million of the asset-backed securities and bonds issued by GSEs and U.S. Agencies and others were rated AAA by Standard & Poor’s or the equivalent credit rating from another major rating agency compared to 99%, or $138.3 million, at December 31, 2015. Debt securities are evaluated quarterly to determine whether a decline in their value is OTTI. No OTTI charge was recorded for years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Classified securities decreased $210,000 from $1.1 million at December 31, 2015 to $883,000 at December 31, 2016.

 

Gross unrealized losses on HTM and AFS securities increased from $1.5 million at December 31, 2015 to $3.3 million at December 31, 2016 (see Note 5 in Consolidated Financial Statements). Gross unrealized losses at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 for AFS securities were $1.6 million and $557,000, respectively, of amortized cost of $54.6 million and $35.5 million, respectively. Gross unrealized losses at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 for HTM securities were $1.7 million and $941,000, respectively, of amortized cost of $109.2 million and $109.4 million, respectively. The change in unrealized losses was the result of changes in interest rates, while credit risks remained stable. The Bank holds over 96% of its AFS and HTM securities as asset-backed securities of GSEs or U.S. Agencies, GSE agency bonds or U.S. government obligations. The Company intends to, and has the ability to, hold both AFS and HTM securities with unrealized losses until they mature, at which time the Company will receive full value for the securities. The Company believes that the AFS and HTM securities with unrealized losses will either recover in market value or be paid off as agreed.

 

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Liabilities

The following table shows the Company’s liabilities and the dollar and percentage changes for the periods presented.

 

(dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015   $ Change   % Change 
Deposits                    
Non-interest-bearing deposits  $144,877   $142,771   $2,106    1.5%
Interest-bearing deposits   893,948    764,128    129,820    17.0%
Total deposits   1,038,825    906,899    131,926    14.5%
Short-term borrowings   79,000    36,000    43,000    119.4%
Long-term debt   65,559    55,617    9,942    17.9%
Guaranteed preferred beneficial interest in junior subordinated debentures (TRUPs)   12,000    12,000    -    0.0%
Subordinated notes - 6.25%   23,000    23,000    -    0.0%
Accrued expenses and other liabilities   11,447    10,033    1,414    14.1%
Total Liabilities  $1,229,831   $1,043,549   $186,282    17.9%

 

Deposits

Deposits increased by 14.5% or $131.9 million, to $1,038.8 million at December 31, 2016 compared to $906.9 million at December 31, 2015. The Company uses both traditional brokered deposits and reciprocal brokered deposits. Traditional brokered deposits at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were $131.0 million and $49.1 million, respectively. Reciprocal brokered deposits at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were $70.7 million and $61.1 million, respectively. Reciprocal brokered deposits are used to maximize FDIC insurance available to our customers. The following is a breakdown of the Company’s deposit portfolio at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

 

   December 31, 
   2016   2015 
(dollars in thousands)  Balance   %   Balance   % 
Noninterest-bearing demand  $144,877    13.95%  $142,771    15.74%
Interest-bearing:                    
Demand   162,823    15.67%   120,918    13.33%
Money market deposits   248,049    23.88%   219,956    24.25%
Savings   50,284    4.84%   47,703    5.26%
Certificates of deposit   432,792    41.66%   375,551    41.41%
Total interest-bearing   893,948    86.05%   764,128    84.26%
                     
Total Deposits  $1,038,825    100.00%  $906,899    100.00%
                     
Transaction accounts  $606,033    58.34%  $531,348    58.59%

 

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Borrowings

Long-term debt and short-term borrowings increased $52.9 million from $91.6 million at December 31, 2015 to $144.6 million at December 31, 2016. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Bank paid off $5.0 million of maturing long-term debt and added one $15.0 million fixed-rate advances maturing in 2018 at 0.95%. During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Bank paid off $19.0 million of maturing long-term debt. There were no long-term advances added during the year ended December 31, 2015.The Company uses brokered deposits and other wholesale funding to supplement funding when loan growth exceeds core deposit growth and for asset-liability management purposes.

 

The Bank uses advances from the FHLB of Atlanta to supplement the supply of funds it may lend and to meet deposit withdrawal requirements. Advances from the FHLB are secured by the Bank’s stock in the FHLB, a portion of the Bank’s loan portfolio and certain investments. Generally, the Bank’s ability to borrow from the FHLB of Atlanta is limited by its available collateral and also by an overall limitation of 30% of assets. Further, short-term credit facilities are available at the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond and commercial banks. Long-term debt consists of adjustable-rate advances with rates based upon LIBOR, fixed-rate advances, and convertible advances. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, 100% of the Bank’s long-term debt was fixed for rate and term, as the conversion optionality of the advances have either been exercised or expired.

 

The following table sets forth information about long-term debt and short-term borrowings for the years indicated. Junior subordinated debentures of $12 million and subordinated notes of $23.0 million are not included in the table. For more information on borrowings, see Notes 11, 16 and 17 in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

   At or for the Year Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
             
Long-term debt               
Long-term debt outstanding at end of period  $65,559   $55,617   $74,672 
Weighted average rate on outstanding long-term debt   2.27%   2.47%   2.35%
Maximum outstanding long-term debt of any month end   65,593    74,668    75,471 
Average outstanding long-term debt   60,503    68,924    74,714 
Approximate average rate paid on long-term debt   2.41%   2.26%   2.39%
                
Short-term borrowings               
Short-term borrowings outstanding at end of period  $79,000   $36,000   $2,000 
Weighted average rate on short-term borrowings   0.71%   0.38%   0.31%
Maximum outstanding short-term borrowings at any month end   79,000    36,000    15,000 
Average outstanding short-term borrowings   39,802    13,463    4,344 
Approximate average rate paid on short-term borrowings   0.49%   0.27%   0.28%

 

Stockholders’ Equity

The following table shows the Company’s equity and the dollar and percentage changes for the periods presented.

 

(dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015   $ Change   % Change 
                 
Common Stock at par of $0.01  $46   $46   $-    0.0%
Additional paid in capital   47,377    46,809    568    1.2%
Retained earnings   58,100    53,495    4,605    8.6%
Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (928)   (251)   (677)   269.7%
Unearned ESOP shares   (169)   (316)   147    (46.5)%
Total Stockholders' Equity  $104,426   $99,783   $4,643    4.7%

 

During the year ended December 31, 2016, stockholders’ equity increased $4.6 million to $104.4 million. The increase in stockholders’ equity was due to net income of $7.3 million and net stock related activities related to stock-based compensation of $669,000. These increases to capital were partially offset by quarterly common dividends paid of $1.8 million, repurchases of common stock of $865,000 and a current year increase in accumulated other comprehensive loss of $677,000. Common stockholders' equity of $104.4 million at December 31, 2016 resulted in a book value of $22.54 per common share compared to $21.48 at December 31, 2015. The Company remains well-capitalized at December 31, 2016 with a Tier 1 capital to average assets ratio of 9.02%.

 

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On February 6, 2015, the Company issued $23.0 million of unsecured 6.25% fixed to floating rate subordinated notes due 2025 (“subordinated notes”). On February 13, 2015, the Company used proceeds of the offering to redeem all $20 million of the Company’s outstanding preferred stock issued under the Small Business Lending Fund (“SBLF”) program. The subordinated notes qualified as Tier 2 regulatory capital and replaced SBLF Tier 1 capital.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

Capital Resources

The Company has no business other than holding the stock of the Bank and does not currently have any material funding requirements, except for the payment of dividends on common stock, and the payment of interest on subordinated debentures and subordinated notes, and noninterest expense.

 

The Company evaluates capital resources by our ability to maintain adequate regulatory capital ratios. The Company and the Bank annually update a three-year strategic capital plan. In developing its plan, the Company considers the impact to capital of asset growth, income accretion, dividends, holding company liquidity, investment in markets and people and stress testing.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company performed an assessment using the new regulatory capital ratios and determined that the Company meets the new requirements specified in the Basel III rules upon full adoption of such requirements. In addition, our subsidiary bank made the election to continue to exclude most accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") from capital in connection with its March 31, 2015 quarterly financial filing and, in effect, to retain the AOCI treatment under the prior capital rules.

 

Federal banking regulations require the Company and the Bank to maintain specified levels of capital. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company and Bank were well-capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action under the new Basel III Capital Rules. Management believes, as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, that the Company and the Bank met all capital adequacy requirements to which they were subject. See Note 18 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Liquidity

Liquidity is our ability to meet cash demands as they arise. Such needs can develop from loan demand, deposit withdrawals or acquisition opportunities. Potential obligations resulting from the issuance of standby letters of credit and commitments to fund future borrowings to our loan customers are other factors affecting our liquidity needs. Many of these obligations and commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon; therefore the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements affecting our liquidity position.

 

Asset liquidity is provided by cash and assets which are readily marketable or which will mature in the near future. Liquid assets include cash, federal funds sold, and short-term investments in cash deposits with other banks. Liquidity is also provided by access to funding sources, which include core depositors and brokered deposits. Other sources of funds include our ability to borrow, such as purchasing federal funds from correspondent banks, sales of securities under agreements to repurchase and advances from the FHLB.

 

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank had $67.0 million and $73.5 million, respectively, in loan commitments outstanding. Certificates of deposit due within one year of December 31, 2016 and 2015 totaled $306.1 million or 70.7% and $230.6 million, or 61.4%, respectively, of total certificates of deposit outstanding. If maturing deposits do not remain, the Bank will be required to seek other sources of funds, including other certificates of deposit and borrowings. Depending on market conditions, we may be required to pay higher rates on such deposits or other borrowings than we currently pay on the certificates of deposits. We believe, however, based on past experience that a significant portion of our certificates of deposit will remain with us. We have the ability to attract and retain deposits by adjusting the interest rates offered.

 

The Company’s principal sources of liquidity are cash on hand and dividends received from the Bank. The Bank is subject to various regulatory restrictions on the payment of dividends.

 

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The Bank’s principal sources of funds for investment and operations are net income, deposits, sales of loans, borrowings, principal and interest payments on loans, principal and interest received on investment securities and proceeds from the maturity and sale of investment securities. Its principal funding commitments are for the origination or purchase of loans, the purchase of securities and the payment of maturing deposits. Deposits are considered the primary source of funds supporting the Bank’s lending and investment activities. The Bank also uses borrowings from the FHLB of Atlanta to supplement deposits. The amount of FHLB advances available to the Bank is limited to the lower of 30% of Bank assets or the amount supportable by eligible collateral including FHLB stock, loans and securities. In addition, the Bank has established lines of credit with the Federal Reserve Bank and commercial banks. For a discussion of these agreements including collateral see Note 11 in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

The Bank’s most liquid assets are cash, cash equivalents and federal funds sold. The levels of such assets are dependent on the Bank’s operating, financing and investment activities at any given time. The variations in levels of cash and cash equivalents are influenced by deposit flows and anticipated future deposit flows.

 

Comparison for the Years Ending December 31, 2016 and 2015

Cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2016 totaled $11.3 million, an increase of $124,000 from the December 31, 2015 total of $11.1 million. Ending cash balances were stable compared to the prior year end as net cash provided by operating activities was similar and increased cash used in investing activities in 2016 compared to 2015 nearly offset cash provided by financing activities in 2016 compared to 2015. Changes to the level of cash and cash equivalents have minimal impact on operational needs as the Bank has substantial sources of funds available from other sources.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2016, all financing activities provided $182.3 million in cash compared to $51.9 million in cash provided for the same period in 2015. The Company provided $130.5 million more cash from financing activities in the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily due to increases in deposits of $94.4 million and net increases of $38.0 million in long-term debt and short-term borrowings. Additionally, the Company used $963,000 less cash to repurchase common stock during 2016 and dividends were reduced by $101,000 due to the refinancing of SBLF in the first quarter of 2015. These increases to cash were offset by a $3.0 million reduction in cash due to net proceeds received during the first quarter 2015 for the subordinated notes issued of $23.0 million offset by the SBLF payoff of $20 million.

 

The Bank’s principal use of cash has been in investing activities including its investments in loans, investment securities and other assets. In 2016, the level of net cash used in investing increased to $195.1 million from $74.6 million in 2015. The increase in cash used in investing activity of $120.5 million in 2016 was primarily due to a net increase in cash used of $123.2 million for loan activities. More cash was used to fund loans as loans originated or acquired increased $152.7 million from $258.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 to $411.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase in cash used was partially offset as principal collected on loans increased $29.5 million from $205.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 to $234.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. Additional cash of $520,000 was used to purchase premises and equipment in the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to 2015. The Company’s cash used increased $1.0 million due to net purchases of securities of $19.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to $18.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. These increases in cash used were partially offset by an increase in net proceeds from the sale of OREO and other assets of $4.2 million compared to the prior year.

 

Operating activities provided cash of $12.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to $12.5 million of cash provided for the same period of 2015.

 

Comparison for the Years Ending December 31, 2015 and 2014

Cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2015 totaled $11.1 million, a decrease of $10.2 million, or 47.9%, from the December 31, 2014 total of $21.4 million. The decrease in cash was primarily due to more cash used in investing activities in 2015 compared to 2014 partially offset by more cash provided by operating activities in 2015 compared to 2014. Changes to the level of cash and cash equivalents have minimal impact on operational needs as the Bank has substantial sources of funds available from other sources.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2015, all financing activities provided $51.9 million in cash compared to $52.7 million in cash provided for the same period in 2014. The Company provided $794,000 less cash for financing activities in the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to the year ended December 31, 2014. The slight decrease in cash provided for the comparable periods was primarily the result of a decrease in the rate of deposit growth of $10.6 million, a net reduction in long-term debt of $23.3 million, partially offset by net increases in short-term borrowings of $32.0 million and a net increase of $3.0 million in proceeds due to the subordinated note raise of $23.0 million offset by the SBLF payoff of $20 million. Additionally, the Company used $1.8 million in cash to repurchase common stock during 2015 and other financing activities decreased cash provided $142,000.

 

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The Bank’s principal use of cash has been in investing activities including its investments in loans, investment securities and other assets. In 2015, the level of net cash used in investing increased to $74.6 million from $66.4 million in 2014. The increase in cash used in investing activity of $8.2 million in 2015 was due to a reduction in net proceeds received on security transactions of $26.6 million primarily due to more investment purchases for the year ended December 31, 2015 than the comparable period of 2014. Additionally, the Bank sold some securities during 2014. The result of these securities activities was that the Bank was a net purchaser of securities of $18.6 million in 2015 compared to a net seller of securities of $8.0 million in 2014. Additional cash of $1.1 million was used to purchase premises and equipment in the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to 2014. During the same comparable period, net proceeds from the sale of OREO and other assets decreased $2.5 million. These increases to cash used were partially offset by decreases to cash used of $22.1 million due to $7.0 million from BOLI purchased in 2014 that was not purchased in 2015 and a net increase in cash provided of $15.1 million from loan activities. The principal collected on loans increased $12.0 million from $193.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 to $205.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. Less cash was used to fund loans as loans originated or acquired decreased $3.1 million from $262.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 to $258.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

Operating activities provided cash of $12.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to $10.6 million of cash provided for the same period of 2014. Cash increased by $1.9 million primarily due to an increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities, decreases in deferred income taxes and other assets partially offset by a decrease in the provision for loan losses.

 

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

Interest rate risk is defined as the exposure to changes in net interest income and capital that arises from movements in interest rates. Depending on the composition of the balance sheet, increasing or decreasing interest rates can negatively affect the Company’s results of operations and financial condition.

 

The Company measures interest rate risk over the short and long term. The Company measures interest rate risk as the change in net interest income (“NII”) caused by a change in interest rates over twelve and twenty-four months. The Company’s NII simulations provide information about short-term interest rate risk exposure. The Company also measures interest rate risk by measuring changes in the values of assets and liabilities due to changes in interest rates. The economic value of equity (“EVE”) is defined as the present value of future cash flows from existing assets, minus the present value of future cash flows from existing liabilities. EVE simulations reflect the interest rate sensitivity of assets and liabilities over a longer time period, considering the maturities, average life and duration of all balance sheet accounts.

 

The Board of Directors has established an interest rate risk policy, which is administered by the Bank’s Asset Liability Committee (“ALCO”). The policy establishes limits on risk, which are quantitative measures of the percentage change in NII and EVE resulting from changes in interest rates. Both NII and EVE simulations assist in identifying, measuring, monitoring and controlling interest rate risk and are used by management and the ALCO Committee to ensure that interest rate risk exposure will be maintained within Board policy guidelines. The ALCO Committee reports quarterly to the Board of Directors. Mitigating strategies are used to maintain interest rate risk within established limits.

 

The Company’s interest rate risk (“IRR”) model uses assumptions which include factors such as call features, prepayment options and interest rate caps and floors included in investment and loan portfolio contracts. Additionally, the IRR model estimates the lives and interest rate sensitivity of the Company’s non-maturity deposits. These assumptions have a significant effect on model results. The assumptions are developed primarily based upon historical behavior of Bank customers. The Company also considers industry and regional data in developing IRR model assumptions. There are inherent limitations in the Company’s IRR model and underlying assumptions. When interest rates change, actual movements of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, loan prepayments, and withdrawals of time and other deposits, may deviate significantly from assumptions used in the model.

 

The Company prepares a current base case and several alternative simulations at least quarterly. Current interest rates are shocked by +/- 100, 200, 300, and 400 basis points (“bp”). In addition, the Company simulates additional rate curve scenarios (e.g., bear flattener). The Company may elect not to use particular scenarios that it determines are impractical in a current rate environment.

 

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The Company’s internal limits for parallel shock scenarios are as follows:

 

Shock in Basis Points 

Net Interest Income

(“NII”)

  

Economic Value of Equity

(“EVE”)

 
+ - 400   25%   40%
+ - 300   20%   30%
+ - 200   15%   20%
+ - 100   10%   10%

 

It is management’s goal to manage the portfolios of the Bank so that net interest income at risk over a twelve-month and twenty-four month period and the economic value of equity at risk do not exceed policy guidelines at the various interest rate shock levels. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company did not exceed any Board approved sensitivity limits. Measures of net interest income at risk produced by simulation analysis are indicators of an institution’s short-term performance in alternative rate environments. The below schedule estimates the changes in net interest income over a twelve month period for parallel rate shocks for up 200, 100 and down 100 scenarios:

 

Estimated Changes in Net Interest Income            
Change in Interest Rates:   + 200 bp    + 100 bp    - 100 bp 
Policy Limit   (15.00)%   (10.00)%   (10.00)%
                
December 31, 2016   (2.19)%   (1.10)%   1.51%
December 31, 2015   0.79%   (0.20)%   1.11%

 

Measures of equity value at risk indicate the ongoing economic value of the Company by considering the effects of changes in interest rates on all of the Company’s cash flows, and by discounting the cash flows to estimate the present value of assets and liabilities. The below schedule estimates the changes in the economic value of equity at parallel shocks for up 200, 100 and down 100 scenarios:

 

Estimated Changes in Economic Value of Equity (EVE)            
Change in Interest Rates:   + 200 bp    + 100 bp    - 100 bp 
Policy Limit   (20.00)%   (10.00)%   (10.00)%
                
December 31, 2016   (13.22)%   (5.64)%   0.63%
December 31, 2015   (1.49)%   (0.03)%   (0.79)%

 

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

 

In the normal course of operations, we engage in a variety of financial transactions that, in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and to general practices within the banking industry, are not recorded in our financial statements. These transactions involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit, interest rate and liquidity risk. Such transactions are used primarily to manage customers’ requests for funding and take the form of loan commitments, letters of credit and lines of credit. For a discussion of these agreements, including collateral and other arrangements, see Note 13 in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company did not engage in any off-balance sheet transactions reasonably likely to have a material effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

 

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CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

In the normal course of its business, the Bank commits to make future payments to others to satisfy contractual obligations. These obligations include commitments to repay short and long-term borrowings and commitments incurred under operating lease agreements. The following schedules provide detail of contractual obligations as of December 31, 2016 and 2015:

 

       Payments due by period 
   Total   Less than One
Year
   One to Three
Years
   Three to
Five Years
   More Than 5
Years
 
At December 31, 2016 (In thousands)                         
                          
Short-term debt obligations  $79,000   $79,000   $-   $-   $- 
Long-term debt obligations   65,559    20,000    25,000    10,000    10,559 
Guaranteed preferred beneficial interest in junior subordinated debentures (TRUPs)   12,000                   12,000 
Subordinated notes - 6.25%   23,000                   23,000 
Time deposits   432,792    306,089    111,395    15,308    - 
Operating lease obligations (1)   7,622    739    1,377    1,049    4,457 
Purchase Obligations (2)   6,459    2,092    4,367    -    - 
Total  $626,432   $407,920   $142,139   $26,357   $50,016 

 

(1) Payments are for lease of real property.

(2) Represents payments under contract based on average monthly service charges for 2016.

 

       Payments due by period 
   Total   Less than One
Year
   One to Three
Years
   Three to
Five Years
   More Than 5
Years
 
At December 31, 2015 (In thousands)                         
                          
Short-term debt obligations  $36,000   $36,000   $-   $-   $- 
Long-term debt obligations   55,617    5,000    30,000    10,000    10,617 
Guaranteed preferred beneficial interest in junior subordinated debentures (TRUPs)   12,000                   12,000 
Subordinated notes - 6.25%   23,000                   23,000 
Time deposits   375,551    230,559    129,073    15,919    - 
Operating lease obligations (1)   6,263    705    1,305    823    3,430 
Purchase Obligations (2)   7,364    1,886    3,937    1,541    - 
Total  $515,795   $274,150   $164,315   $28,283   $49,047 

 

(1) Payments are for lease of real property.

(2) Represents payments for data processing under contract based on average monthly service charges for 2015.

 

IMPACT OF INFLATION AND CHANGING PRICES

The Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto presented herein have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and to general practices within the banking industry, which require the measurement of financial position and operating results in terms of historical dollars without considering the changes in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. Unlike most industrial companies, nearly all of the Company’s assets and liabilities are monetary in nature. As a result, interest rates have a greater impact on the Company's performance than do the effects of general levels of inflation. Interest rates do not necessarily move in the same direction or to the same extent as the prices of goods and services.

 

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Item 8 - Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

 

MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

 

The management of The Community Financial Corporation (the "Company") is responsible for the preparation, integrity and fair presentation of the financial statements included in this Annual Report. The financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and reflect management's judgments and estimates concerning the effects of events and transactions that are accounted for or disclosed.

 

Management is also responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. The Company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that pertain to the Company's ability to record, process, summarize and report reliable financial data. The internal control system contains monitoring mechanisms, and appropriate actions taken to correct identified deficiencies. Management believes that internal controls over financial reporting, which are subject to scrutiny by management and the Company's internal auditors, support the integrity and reliability of the financial statements. Management recognizes that there are inherent limitations in the effectiveness of any internal control system, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of internal controls. Accordingly, even effective internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation. In addition, because of changes in conditions and circumstances, the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting may vary over time The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors (the "Committee"), is comprised entirely of outside directors who are independent of management. The Committee is responsible for the appointment and compensation of the independent auditors and makes decisions regarding the appointment or removal of members of the internal audit function. The Committee meets periodically with management, the independent auditors, and the internal auditors to ensure that they are carrying out their responsibilities. The Committee is also responsible for performing an oversight role by reviewing and monitoring the financial, accounting, and auditing procedures of the Company in addition to reviewing the Company's financial reports. The independent auditors and the internal auditors have full and unlimited access to the Audit Committee, with or without the presence of management, to discuss the adequacy of internal control over financial reporting, and any other matters which they believe should be brought to the attention of the Audit Committee.

 

Management assessed the Company's system of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016. This assessment was conducted based on the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations ("COSO") of the Treadway Commission "Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013)." Based on this assessment, management believes that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016. Management's assessment concluded that there were no material weaknesses within the Company's internal control structure. There were no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15 under the Securities Act of 1934) during the quarter ended December 31, 2016 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

 

The 2016 financial statements have been audited by the independent registered public accounting firm of Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP (“DHG”). Personnel from DHG were given unrestricted access to all financial records and related data, including minutes of all meetings of the Board of Directors and committees thereof. Management believes that all representations made to all the independent auditors were valid and appropriate. The resulting report from DHG accompanies the financial statements. DHG has also issued a report on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. This report has also been made a part of this Annual Report.

 

/s/ William J. Pasenelli   /s/ Todd L. Capitani
William J. Pasenelli   Todd L. Capitani
President and Chief Executive Officer   Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
March 13, 2017   March 13, 2017

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

  

 

 

Board of Directors and Stockholders

The Community Financial Corporation

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of The Community Financial Corporation (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2016, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of The Community Financial Corporation as of December 31, 2016, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), The Community Financial Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated March 13, 2017, expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

  

/s/ Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP

  

Baltimore, Maryland

March 13, 2017

  

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

Board of Directors and Stockholders

The Community Financial Corporation

 

We have audited The Community Financial Corporation (the “Company”)’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. An entity's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

In our opinion, The Community Financial Corporation maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements of The Community Financial Corporation as of and for the year ended December 31, 2016 and our report dated March 13, 2017, expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

 

 

/s/ Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP

 

Baltimore, Maryland

March 13, 2017

  

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

 

Board of Directors and Stockholders

The Community Financial Corporation

Waldorf, Maryland

 

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The Community Financial Corporation (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2015, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2015. The Company’s management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall consolidated financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of The Community Financial Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2015 and the results of their operations and cash flows for each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2015, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

 

/s/ Stegman & Company

 

Baltimore, Maryland

March 10, 2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Suite 200, 809 Glen Eagles Court Baltimore, Maryland 21286 ● 410-823-8000 ● 1-800-686-3883 ● Fax: 410-296-4815 ● www.stegman.com 

Members of   

  

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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

(dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015 
Assets          
Cash and due from banks  $9,948   $9,059 
Federal funds sold   -    225 
Interest-bearing deposits with banks   1,315    1,855 
Securities available for sale (AFS), at fair value   53,033    35,116 
Securities held to maturity (HTM), at amortized cost   109,247    109,420 
Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) and Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) stock - at cost   7,235    6,931 
Loans receivable - net of allowance for loan losses of $9,860 and $8,540   1,079,519    909,200 
Premises and equipment, net   22,205    20,156 
Premises and equipment held for sale   345    2,000 
Other real estate owned (OREO)   7,763    9,449 
Accrued interest receivable   3,979    3,218 
Investment in bank owned life insurance   28,625    27,836 
Other assets   11,043    8,867 
Total Assets  $1,334,257   $1,143,332 
           
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity          
Liabilities          
Deposits          
Non-interest-bearing deposits  $144,877   $142,771 
Interest-bearing deposits   893,948    764,128 
Total deposits   1,038,825    906,899 
Short-term borrowings   79,000    36,000 
Long-term debt   65,559    55,617 
Guaranteed preferred beneficial interest in  junior subordinated debentures (TRUPs)   12,000    12,000 
Subordinated notes - 6.25%   23,000    23,000 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities   11,447    10,033 
Total Liabilities   1,229,831    1,043,549 
           
Stockholders' Equity          
Common stock - par value $.01; authorized - 15,000,000 shares;  issued 4,633,868 and 4,645,429 shares, respectively   46    46 
Additional paid in capital   47,377    46,809 
Retained earnings   58,100    53,495 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (928)   (251)
Unearned ESOP shares   (169)   (316)
Total Stockholders' Equity   104,426    99,783 
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity  $1,334,257   $1,143,332 

 

See notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts )  2016   2015   2014 
Interest and Dividend Income               
Loans, including fees  $44,919   $41,386   $39,475 
Interest and dividends on investment securities   3,108    2,473    2,270 
Interest on deposits with banks   20    14    14 
Total Interest and Dividend Income   48,047    43,873    41,759 
                
Interest Expense               
Deposits   4,695    4,152    4,586 
Short-term borrowings   196    37    12 
Long-term debt   3,251    3,156    2,100 
Total Interest Expense   8,142    7,345    6,698 
                
Net Interest Income   39,905    36,528    35,061 
Provision for loan losses   2,359    1,433    2,653 
Net Interest Income After Provision For Loan Losses   37,546    35,095    32,408 
Noninterest Income               
Loan appraisal, credit, and miscellaneous charges   289    315    368 
Gain on sale of asset   12    19    7 
Net (losses) gains on sale of OREO   (436)   (20)   322 
Net gains on sale of investment securities   31    4    19 
Loss on premises and equipment held for sale   -    (426)   - 
Income from bank owned life insurance   789    815    671 
Service charges   2,675    2,488    2,213 
Gain on sale of loans held for sale   -    104    493 
Total Noninterest Income   3,360    3,299    4,093 
                
Noninterest Expense               
Salary and employee benefits   16,810    16,366    15,851 
Occupancy expense   2,488    2,427    2,371 
Advertising   647    583    545 
Data processing expense   2,267    2,044    1,556 
Professional fees   1,568    1,323    1,129 
Depreciation of furniture, fixtures, and equipment   812    810    753 
Telephone communications   174    188    185 
Office supplies   136    157    204 
FDIC Insurance   739    799    709 
OREO valuation allowance and expenses   861    1,059    386 
Other   2,657    2,662    2,546 
Total Noninterest Expense   29,159    28,418    26,235 
                
Income before income taxes   11,747    9,976    10,266 
Income tax expense   4,416    3,633    3,776 
Net Income  $7,331   $6,343   $6,490 
Preferred stock dividends   -    23    200 
Net Income Available to Common Stockholders  $7,331   $6,320   $6,290 
                
Earnings Per Common Share               
Basic  $1.59   $1.36   $1.35 
Diluted  $1.59   $1.35   $1.35 
Cash dividends paid per common share  $0.40   $0.40   $0.40 

 

See notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

75 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
             
Net Income  $7,331   $6,343   $6,490 
Net unrealized holding (losses) gains arising during period, net of tax (benefit) expense of $(433), $85 and $300, respectively   (662)   131    681 
Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income, net of tax benefit of $7, $2 and $1, respectively   (15)   (4)   (2)
Comprehensive Income  $6,654   $6,470   $7,169 

 

See notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

76 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014

 

                   Accumulated         
   SBLF       Additional       Other   Unearned     
   Preferred   Common   Paid-in   Retained   Comprehensive   ESOP     
(dollars in thousands)  Stock   Stock   Capital   Earnings   Income (Loss)   Shares   Total 
                             
Balance at January 1, 2014  $20,000   $46   $45,881   $46,523   $(1,057)  $(663)  $110,730 
                                    
Comprehensive Income                                   
Net income   -    -    -    6,490    -    -    6,490 
Unrealized holding gain on investment securities net of tax of $238   -    -    -    -    541    -    541 
Other than temporary impairment amortization on HTM securities net of tax of $61   -    -    -    -    138    -    138 
Total Comprehensive Income                                 7,169 
                                    
Cash dividend at $0.40 per common share   -    -    -    (1,855)   -    -    (1,855)
Preferred stock dividends   -    -    -    (200)   -    -    (200)
Dividend Reinvestment   -    -    22    (22)   -    -    - 
Exercise of stock options   -    1    225    -    -    -    226 
Net change in unearned ESOP shares   -    -    -    -    -    201    201 
Stock based compensation   -    -    182    -    -    -    182 
Tax effect of exercise of stock based compensation   -    -    71    -    -    -    71 
Tax effect of the ESOP dividend   -    -    35    -    -    -    35 
Balance at December 31, 2014  $20,000   $47   $46,416   $50,936   $(378)  $(462)  $116,559 

 

77 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014

(continued)

 

                   Accumulated         
   SBLF       Additional       Other   Unearned     
   Preferred   Common   Paid-in   Retained   Comprehensive   ESOP     
(dollars in thousands)  Stock   Stock   Capital   Earnings   Income (Loss)   Shares   Total 
                             
Balance at January 1, 2015  $20,000   $47   $46,416   $50,936   $(378)  $(462)  $116,559 
Comprehensive Income                                   
Net Income   -    -    -    6,343    -    -    6,343 
Unrealized holding gain on investment securities net of tax of $83   -    -    -    -    127    -    127 
Total Comprehensive Income                                 6,470 
                                    
Cash dividend at $0.40 per common share   -    -    -    (1,843)   -    -    (1,843)
Preferred stock dividends   -    -    -    (73)   -    -    (73)
Dividend Reinvestment   -    -    42    (42)   -    -    - 
Redemption of SBLF Loan   (20,000)   -    -    -    -    -    (20,000)
Net change in unearned ESOP shares   -    -    -    -    -    146    146 
Repurchase of common stock   -    (1)   -    (1,826)   -    -    (1,827)
Stock Based Compensation   -    -    319    -    -    -    319 
Tax effect of the ESOP dividend   -    -    32    -    -    -    32 
Balance at December 31, 2015  $-   $46   $46,809   $53,495   $(251)  $(316)  $99,783 

 

78 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014

(continued)

 

                   Accumulated         
   SBLF       Additional       Other   Unearned     
   Preferred   Common   Paid-in   Retained   Comprehensive   ESOP     
(dollars in thousands)  Stock   Stock   Capital   Earnings   Income (Loss)   Shares   Total 
                             
Balance at January 1, 2016  $-   $46   $46,809   $53,495   $(251)  $(316)  $99,783 
Comprehensive Income                                   
Net Income   -    -    -    7,331    -    -    7,331 
Unrealized holding loss on investment securities net of tax of $440   -    -    -    -    (677)   -    (677)
Total Comprehensive Income                                 6,654 
                                    
Cash dividend at $0.40 per common share   -    -    -    (1,814)   -    -    (1,814)
Dividend Reinvestment   -    -    47    (47)   -    -    - 
Net change in unearned ESOP shares   -    -    -    -    -    147    147 
Repurchase of common stock   -    -    -    (865)   -    -    (865)
Stock Based Compensation   -    -    489    -    -    -    489 
Tax effect of the ESOP dividend   -    -    32    -    -    -    32 
Balance at December 31, 2016  $-   $46   $47,377   $58,100   $(928)  $(169)  $104,426 

 

See notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

79 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
             
Cash Flows from Operating Activities               
Net income  $7,331   $6,343   $6,490 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities               
Provision for loan losses   2,359    1,433    2,653 
Depreciation and amortization   1,544    1,439    1,299 
Provision for loss on premises held for sale   -    426    - 
Loans originated for resale   -    (4,192)   (13,579)
Proceeds from sale of loans originated for sale   -    4,296    13,990 
Gain on sale of loans held for sale   -    (104)   (493)
Net loss (gains) on the sale of OREO   436    20    (322)
Gains on sales of investment securities   (31)   (4)   (19)
Gain on sale of asset   (12)   (19)   (7)
                
Net amortization of premium/discount on investment securities   509    245    344 
Increase in OREO valuation allowance   574    664    234 
Increase in cash surrender of bank owned life insurance   (789)   (815)   (671)
(Increase) decrease in deferred income tax benefit   (555)   (750)   1,138 
Increase in accrued interest receivable   (761)   (182)   (62)
Stock based compensation   489    319    182 
Increase in net deferred loan premiums   1,552    85    265 
Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses and other liabilities   1,414    1,770    (1,060)
(Increase) decrease in other assets   (1,145)   1,523    251 
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities   12,915    12,497    10,633 
                
Cash Flows from Investing Activities               
Purchase of AFS investment securities   (31,312)   (2,084)   (3,253)
Proceeds from redemption or principal payments of AFS investment securities   5,653    8,986    8,111 
Purchase of HTM investment securities   (24,504)   (42,949)   (16,230)
Proceeds from maturities or principal payments of HTM investment securities   23,564    17,860    14,020 
Net increase of FHLB and FRB stock   (303)   (497)   (842)
Purchase of bank owned life insurance policies   -    -    (7,000)
Loans originated or acquired   (411,564)   (258,844)   (261,971)
Principal collected on loans   234,587    205,100    193,113 
Purchase of premises and equipment   (3,970)   (3,450)   (2,355)
Proceeds from sale of OREO   3,423    1,184    3,742 
Proceeds from sale of investment securities   7,256    66    6,209 
Proceeds from disposal of asset   2,044    34    20 
                
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities   (195,126)   (74,594)   (66,436)

 

80 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(continued)

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
             
Cash Flows from Financing Activities               
Net increase in deposits  $131,925   $37,515   $48,089 
Proceeds from long-term debt   15,000    -    5,000 
Payments of long-term debt   (5,058)   (19,055)   (804)
Net increase in short term borrowings   43,000    34,000    2,000 
Exercise of stock options   -    -    226 
Proceeds from subordinated notes   -    23,000    - 
Redemption of Small Business Lending Fund Preferred Stock   -    (20,000)   - 
Dividends paid   (1,814)   (1,916)   (2,055)
Net change in unearned ESOP shares   147    146    201 
Repurchase of common stock   (865)   (1,827)   - 
Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities   182,335    51,863    52,657 
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents  $124   $(10,234)  $(3,146)
Cash and Cash Equivalents - January 1   11,139    21,373    24,519 
Cash and Cash Equivalents - December 31  $11,263   $11,139   $21,373 
                
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information               
Cash paid during the period for               
Interest  $7,993   $6,799   $6,661 
Income taxes  $5,325   $3,604   $3,732 
                
Supplemental Schedule of Non-Cash Operating Activities               
Issuance of common stock for payment of compensation  $575   $319   $182 
Transfer from loans to OREO  $3,120   $5,436   $2,742 
Transfer from OREO to loans  $2,176   $-   $1,000 
Transfer of OREO to Fixed Assets  $372   $-   $- 
Transfer from premises and equipment to premises and equipment held for sale  $345   $2,426   $- 

 

See notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

81 

 

 

NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Principles of Consolidation

The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of The Community Financial Corporation and its wholly owned subsidiary Community Bank of the Chesapeake (the “Bank”), and the Bank’s wholly owned subsidiary Community Mortgage Corporation of Tri-County (collectively, the “Company”). All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The accounting and reporting policies of the Company conform with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and to general practices within the banking industry.

 

Reclassification

Certain reclassifications have been made in the Consolidated Financial Statements for 2015 to conform to the classification presented in 2016.

 

Nature of Operations

The Company provides a variety of financial services to individuals and businesses through its offices in Southern Maryland and Annapolis, Maryland, and Fredericksburg, Virginia. Its primary deposit products are demand, savings and time deposits, and its primary lending products are commercial and residential mortgage loans, commercial loans, construction and land development loans, home equity and second mortgages and commercial equipment loans.

 

The Bank conducts business through its main office in Waldorf, Maryland, and eleven branch offices in Waldorf, Bryans Road, Dunkirk, Leonardtown, La Plata, Charlotte Hall, Prince Frederick, Lusby, California, Maryland; and Fredericksburg, Virginia. The Company maintains five loan production offices (“LPOs”) in Annapolis, La Plata, Prince Frederick and Leonardtown, Maryland; and Fredericksburg, Virginia. The Leonardtown and Fredericksburg LPOs are co-located with branches. The Company’s second branch in Fredericksburg opened in April 2016.

 

The Company sold its King George, Virginia branch building and equipment to a credit union. The Company’s 2015 third quarter operating results reflect the financial impact of the transaction. The Company recorded an impairment of $426,000 during the third quarter of 2015. The transaction closed on January 28, 2016.

 

Use of Estimates

In preparing Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the balance sheet and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term relate to the determination of the allowance for loan losses and the valuation of OREO and deferred tax assets.

 

Significant Group Concentrations of Credit Risk

Most of the Company’s activities are with customers located in the Fredericksburg area of Virginia and the Southern Maryland counties of Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s. Notes 5 and 6 discuss the types of securities and loans held by the Company. The Company does not have significant concentration in any one customer or industry.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

For purposes of the consolidated statements of cash flows, the Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments with original maturities of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents.

 

Securities

Debt securities that management has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity (“HTM”) and recorded at amortized cost. Securities purchased and held principally for trading in the near term are classified as “trading securities” and are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses included in earnings. The Company held no trading securities for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. Securities not classified as held to maturity or trading securities, including equity securities with readily determinable fair values, are classified as available for sale (“AFS”) and recorded at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported in other comprehensive income.

 

82 

 

 

Purchase premiums and discounts are recognized in interest income using the interest method over the terms of the securities. Declines in the estimated fair value of held to maturity and available for sale securities below their cost that are deemed to be other than temporary are reflected in earnings as realized losses. In estimating other than temporary impairment losses, management considers: (1) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost; (2) the financial condition and near term prospects of the issuer; and (3) the intent and ability of the Company to retain its investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value. Gains and losses on the sale of securities are recorded on the trade date and are determined using the specific identification method. Investments in Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta stocks are recorded at cost and are considered restricted as to marketability. The Bank is required to maintain investments in the Federal Home Loan Bank based upon levels of borrowings. During 2017, the Bank’s primary regulator became the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) and the Federal Reserve Bank stock was cancelled as it was no longer needed as a condition of membership (see Note 18 for further information).

 

Debt securities are evaluated quarterly to determine whether a decline in their value is other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”). The term other-than-temporary is not necessarily intended to indicate a permanent decline in value. It means that the prospects for near term recovery of value are not necessarily favorable, or that there is a lack of evidence to support fair values equal to, or greater than, the carrying value of the investment. Under accounting guidance, for recognition and presentation of other-than-temporary impairments the amount of other-than-temporary impairment that is recognized through earnings for debt securities is determined by comparing the present value of the expected cash flows to the amortized cost of the security. The discount rate used to determine the credit loss is the expected book yield on the security. The Company does not evaluate declines in the value of securities of Government Sponsored Enterprises (“GSEs”) or investments backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government (e.g. US Treasury Bills), for other-than-temporary impairment.

 

Loans Held for Sale

Residential mortgage loans intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value, in the aggregate. Fair value is derived from secondary market quotations for similar instruments. Net unrealized losses, if any, are recognized through a valuation allowance by charges to income.

 

Residential mortgage loans held for sale are generally sold with the mortgage servicing rights retained by the Company. The carrying value of mortgage loans sold is reduced by the cost allocated to the associated servicing rights. Gains or losses on sales of mortgage loans are recognized based on the difference between the selling price and the carrying value of the related mortgage loans sold, using the specific identification method.

 

The Company exited the residential mortgage origination line of business in April 2015 for individual owner occupied residential first mortgages and established third party sources to supply its residential whole loan portfolio. The Company continues to underwrite loans for non-owner occupied residential rental properties. The Company may sell certain loans forward into the secondary market at a specified price with a specified date on a best efforts basis. These forward sales are derivative financial instruments. The Company does not recognize gains or losses due to interest rate changes for loans sold forward on a best efforts basis. The Bank had no loans held for sale at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and sold no loans for the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

Loans Receivable

The Company originates real estate mortgages, construction and land development loans, commercial loans and consumer loans. The Company purchases residential owner-occupied first mortgages from established third-parties. A substantial portion of the loan portfolio is comprised of loans throughout Southern Maryland and the Fredericksburg area of Virginia. The ability of the Company’s debtors to honor their contracts is dependent upon the real estate and general economic conditions in this area.

 

Loans that the Company has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future, or until maturity or payoff, are reported at their outstanding unpaid principal balances, adjusted for the allowance for loan losses and any deferred fees or premiums. Interest income is accrued on the unpaid principal balance. Loan origination fees and premiums, net of certain direct origination costs, are deferred and recognized as an adjustment of the related loan yield using the interest method.

 

83 

 

 

Loans are reviewed on a regular basis and are placed on non-accrual status when, in the opinion of management, the collection of additional interest is doubtful. The accrual of interest on mortgage and commercial loans is discontinued at the time the loan is 90 days delinquent unless the credit is well secured and in the process of collection. Non-accrual loans include certain loans that are current with all loan payments and are placed on non-accrual status due to customer operating results and cash flows. Non-accrual loans are evaluated for impairment on a loan-by-loan basis in accordance with the Company’s impairment methodology. Interest is recognized on non-accrual loans on a cash-basis.

 

Consumer loans are typically charged-off no later than 90 days past due. Mortgage and commercial loans are fully or partially charged-off when in management’s judgment all reasonable efforts to return a loan to performing status have occurred. In all cases, loans are placed on non-accrual or charged-off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful.

 

All interest accrued but not collected from loans that are placed on non-accrual or charged-off is reversed against interest income. The interest on these loans is accounted for on the cash-basis or cost-recovery method, until qualifying for return to accrual status. Loans are returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.

 

Allowance for Loan Losses and Impaired Loans

The allowance for loan losses is established as probable losses are estimated to have occurred through a provision for loan losses charged to earnings. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when management believes that the uncollectibility of a loan balance is confirmed. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance.

 

The allowance for loan losses is evaluated on a regular basis by management and is based upon management’s periodic review of the collectability of the loans in light of historical experience, the composition and size of the loan portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay, estimated value of any underlying collateral and prevailing economic conditions. This evaluation is inherently subjective, as it requires estimates that are susceptible to significant revision as more information becomes available.

 

The allowance for loan losses consists of a general and a specific component. The general component is based upon historical loss experience and a review of qualitative risk factors by portfolio segment (See Note 6 for a description of portfolio segments). The historical loss experience factor is tracked over various time horizons for each portfolio segment. The Company considers qualitative factors in addition to the loss experience factor. These include trends by portfolio segment in charge-offs, delinquencies, classified loans, loan concentrations and the rate of portfolio segment growth. Qualitative factors also include an assessment of the current regulatory environment, the quality of credit administration and loan portfolio management and national and local economic trends.

 

The specific component of the allowance for loan losses relates to individual impaired loans with an identified impairment loss. The Company evaluates substandard and doubtful classified loans, loans delinquent 90 days or greater, non-accrual loans and troubled debt restructured loans (“TDRs”) to determine whether a loan is impaired. A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Factors considered by management in determining impairment include payment status, collateral value and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment delays and shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the circumstances surrounding the loan. These circumstances include the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s payment record and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. Loans not impaired are included in the pool of loans evaluated in the general component of the allowance.

 

If a specific loan is deemed to be impaired it is evaluated for impairment. Impairment is measured on a loan-by-loan basis by either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, the loan’s observable market price or the fair value of the collateral, if the loan is collateral dependent. An allowance is established when the discounted cash flows (or collateral value or observable market price) of the impaired loan is lower than carrying value of the loan.

 

The Company considers all TDRs to be impaired and defines TDRs as loans whose terms have been modified to provide for a reduction or a delay in the payment of either interest or principal because of deterioration in the financial condition of the borrower. A loan extended or renewed at a stated interest rate equal to the current interest rate for new debt with similar risk is not considered a TDR. Once an obligation has been classified as a TDR it continues to be considered a TDR until paid in full or until the debt is refinanced at market rates with no debt forgiveness. TDRs are evaluated for impairment on a loan-by-loan basis in accordance with the Company’s impairment methodology. The Company does not participate in any specific government or Company-sponsored loan modification programs. All restructured loan agreements are individual contracts negotiated with a borrower.

 

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Servicing

Servicing assets are recognized as separate assets when rights are acquired through the purchase or sale of financial assets. Generally, purchased servicing rights are capitalized at the cost to acquire the rights. For sales of mortgage loans, a portion of the cost of originating the loan is allocated to the servicing based on relative estimated fair value. Estimated fair value is based on market prices for comparable mortgage servicing contracts, when available, or alternatively, is based on a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated future net servicing. The valuation model incorporates assumptions that market participants would use in estimating future net servicing income, such as the cost to service, the discount rate, an inflation rate, ancillary income, prepayment speeds and default rates and losses. Capitalized servicing rights are reported in other assets and are amortized into noninterest income in proportion to, and over the period of, the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying financial assets.

 

Servicing assets are evaluated for impairment based upon the estimated fair value of the rights as compared to amortized cost. Impairment is determined by stratifying rights into tranches based on predominant risk characteristics, such as interest rate, loan type and investor type. Impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance for an individual tranche, to the extent that fair value is less than the capitalized amount for the tranche. If the Company later determines that all or a portion of the impairment no longer exists for a particular tranche, a reduction of the allowance may be recorded as an increase to income.

 

Servicing fee income is recorded for fees earned for servicing loans. The fees are based on a contractual percentage of the outstanding principal and recorded as income when earned. The amortization of mortgage servicing rights is netted against loan servicing fee income.

 

Premises and Equipment

Land is carried at cost. Premises, improvements and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization, computed by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which are as follows:

 

Buildings and Improvements: 10 to 50 years

Furniture and Equipment: three to 15 years

Automobiles: four to five years

 

Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred, while improvements that extend the useful life of premises and equipment are capitalized.

 

Other Real Estate Owned (“OREO”)

Assets acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosure are held for sale and are initially recorded at the estimated fair value at the date of foreclosure, establishing a new cost basis. Subsequent to foreclosure, valuations are periodically performed by management, and the assets are carried at the lower of carrying amount or estimated fair value less the cost to sell. Based on updated valuations, the Bank has the ability to reverse a valuation allowance that was recorded subsequent to the initial carrying value up to the amount of the initial recorded carrying value (initial cost basis). Revenues and expenses from operations and changes in the valuation allowance are included in noninterest expense. Gains or losses on disposition are included in noninterest income

 

Transfers of Financial Assets

Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales when control over the assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when: (1) the assets have been isolated from the Company; (2) the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets; and (3) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.

 

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Advertising Costs

The Company expenses advertising costs as incurred.

 

Income Taxes

The Company files a consolidated federal income tax return with its subsidiaries. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined using the liability (or balance sheet) method. Under this method, the net deferred tax asset or liability is determined based on the tax effects of the temporary differences between the book and tax bases of the various balance sheet assets and liabilities and gives current recognition to changes in tax rates and laws and when it is considered more likely than not that deferred tax assets will be realized. It is the Company’s policy to recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of tax expense.

 

Off Balance Sheet Credit Related Financial Instruments

In the ordinary course of business, the Company has entered into commitments to extend credit, including commitments under commercial lines of credit, letters of credit and standby letters of credit. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded.

 

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company has stock-based incentive arrangements to attract and retain key personnel in order to promote the success of the business. In May 2015, the 2015 Equity Compensation Plan (the “2015 plan”) was approved by shareholders, which authorizes the issuance of restricted stock, stock appreciation rights, stock units and stock options to the Board of Directors and key employees.

 

Compensation cost for all stock-based awards is measured at fair value on date of grant and recognized over the vesting period. Such value is recognized as expense over the service period, net of estimated forfeitures. The estimation of stock awards that ultimately vest requires judgment, and to the extent actual results or updated estimates differ from our current estimates, such amounts will be recorded as a cumulative adjustment in the period estimates are revised. The Company considers many factors when estimating expected forfeitures, including types of awards, employee class and historical experience.

 

The Company and the Bank currently maintain incentive compensation plans which provide for payments to be made in cash or other share-based compensation. The Company has accrued the full amounts due under these plans.

 

Earnings Per Common Share (“EPS”)

Basic earnings per common share represent income available to common stockholders, divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Unencumbered shares held by the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) are treated as outstanding in computing earnings per share. Shares issued to the ESOP but pledged as collateral for loans obtained to provide funds to acquire the shares are not treated as outstanding in computing earnings per share.

 

Diluted earnings per share reflect additional common shares that would have been outstanding if dilutive potential common shares had been issued. Potential dilutive common shares are determined using the treasury stock method and include incremental shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options and other share-based compensation awards. The Company excludes from the diluted EPS calculation anti-dilutive options, because the exercise price of the options were greater than the average market price of the common shares.

 

Comprehensive Income

Accounting principles generally require that recognized revenue, expenses, gains and losses be included in net income. Certain changes in assets and liabilities, such as unrealized gains and losses on available for sale securities, are reported as components of comprehensive income as a separate statement in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Additionally, the Company discloses accumulated other comprehensive income as a separate component in the equity section of the balance sheet.

 

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Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”). ASU 2014-09 - Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606); ASU 2016-08 - Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net); ASU No. 2016-10 - Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing. ASU 2014-09 states that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This update affects entities that enter into contracts with customers to transfer goods or services or enter into contracts for the transfer of nonfinancial assets, unless those contracts are within the scope of other standards. ASU 2016-08 was issued to clarify certain principal versus agent considerations within the implementation guidance of ASC Topic 606. ASU 2016-10 was issued to clarify ASC Topic 606 related to (i) identifying performance obligations; and (ii) the licensing implementation guidance. The effective date for the ASUs is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted, but not before the original effective date of December 15, 2016. The Company is evaluating the impact of the updates on the consolidated financial statements and believes the adoption will not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statement. The Company’s income from transactions in the scope of the update is insignificant.

 

ASU 2015-05 - Customer’s Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement. ASU 2015-05 provides guidance to customers about whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, the customer should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, the customer should account for the arrangement as a service contract. The new guidance does not change the accounting for a customer’s accounting for service contracts. ASU No. 2015-05 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

ASU 2015-16 - Business Combinations (Topic 805) – Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments. ASU 2015-16 requires that an acquirer recognize adjustments to estimated amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. The amendments require that the acquirer record, in the same period's financial statements, the effect on earnings of changes in depreciation, amortization, or other income effects, if any, as a result of the change to the estimated amounts, calculated as if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. The amendments also require an entity to present separately on the face of the income statement or disclose in the notes the portion of the amount recorded in current-period earnings by line item that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment to the estimated amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date. The amendments should be applied prospectively to adjustments to provisional amounts that occur after the effective date with earlier application permitted for financial statements that have not been issued. ASU 2015-16 was effective January 1, 2016 and did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

ASU 2016-01 - Financial Instruments – Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. ASU 2016-1, among other things, (i) requires equity investments, with certain exceptions, to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income, (ii) simplifies the impairment assessment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values by requiring a qualitative assessment to identify impairment, (iii) eliminates the requirement for public business entities to disclose the methods and significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value that is required to be disclosed for financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the balance sheet, (iv) requires public business entities to use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes, (v) requires an entity to present separately in other comprehensive income the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk when the entity has elected to measure the liability at fair value in accordance with the fair value option for financial instruments, (vi) requires separate presentation of financial assets and financial liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset on the balance sheet or the accompanying notes to the financial statements and (viii) clarifies that an entity should evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available-for-sale. ASU 2016-1 will be effective on January 1, 2018 and the Company is evaluating its impact on the consolidated financial statements and will monitor developments and additional guidance.

 

ASU 2016-02 - Leases (Topic 842). ASU 2016-02 requires lessees to recognize a lease liability, which is a lessee‘s obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and a right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. ASU 2016-02 does not significantly change lease accounting requirements applicable to lessors; however, certain changes were made to align, where necessary, lessor accounting with the lessee accounting model and ASC Topic 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers.” ASU 2016-02 will be effective on January 1, 2019 and will require transition using a modified retrospective approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. The Company is evaluating the potential impact of ASU 2016-02 on the consolidated financial statements.

 

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ASU 2016-05 - Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) Effect of Derivative Contract Novations on Existing Hedge Accounting Relationships. ASU 2016-05 clarifies that a change in the counterparty to a derivative instrument that has been designated as the hedging instrument under ASC Topic 815 does not, in and of itself, require dedesignation of that hedging relationship provided that all other hedge accounting criteria continue to be met. ASU 2016-05 will be effective on January 1, 2017 and is not expected to have a significant impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

ASU 2016-09 - Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. ASU 2016-09 is intended to simplify how share-based payments are accounted for and presented in the financial statements. The key provisions include: (i) a company will no longer record excess tax benefits and certain tax deficiencies in additional paid-in capital (“APIC”). Instead all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies will be reported as income tax expense or benefit in the income statement, and APIC pools will be eliminated. The guidance also eliminates the requirement that excess tax benefits be realized before companies can recognize them. In addition, the guidance requires companies to present excess tax benefits as an operating activity on the statement of cash flows rather than as a financing activity; (ii) a company can increase the amount of withholding to cover income taxes on awards and still qualify for the exception to liability classification for shares used to satisfy the employer’s statutory income tax withholding obligation. The new guidance will also require an employer to classify the cash paid to a tax authority when shares are withheld to satisfy its statutory income tax withholding obligation as a financing activity on its statement of cash flows (current guidance did not specify how these cash flows should be classified); and (iii) a company can elect an accounting policy election for the impact of forfeitures on the recognition of expense for share-based payment awards. Forfeitures can be estimated, as required today, or recognized when they occur. ASU No. 2016-09 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted, but all of the guidance must be adopted in the same period. The Company is evaluating the potential impact of ASU 2016-09 on the consolidated financial statements and believes the adoption of this update will result in a slight increase in volatility on income tax expense, depending on the amount and timing of share-based compensation award activity, such as the vesting of stock awards and the exercise of stock options.

 

ASU 2016-13 - Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. ASU No. 2016-13 significantly changes how entities will measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that aren’t measured at fair value through net income. The standard will replace today’s “incurred loss” approach with an “expected loss” model. The new model, referred to as the current expected credit loss (“CECL”) model, will apply to: (1) financial assets subject to credit losses and measured at amortized cost, and (2) certain off-balance sheet credit exposures. This includes, but is not limited to, loans, leases, held-to-maturity securities, loan commitments, and financial guarantees. The CECL model does not apply to available-for-sale (“AFS”) debt securities. For AFS debt securities with unrealized losses, entities will measure credit losses in a manner similar to what they do today, except that the losses will be recognized as allowances rather than reductions in the amortized cost of the securities. As a result, entities will recognize improvements to estimated credit losses immediately in earnings rather than as interest income over time, as they do today. The ASU also simplifies the accounting model for purchased credit-impaired debt securities and loans. ASU 2016-13 also expands the disclosure requirements regarding an entity’s assumptions, models, and methods for estimating the allowance for loan and lease losses. In addition, entities will need to disclose the amortized cost balance for each class of financial asset by credit quality indicator, disaggregated by the year of origination. ASU No. 2016-13 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019; early adoption is permitted for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018. Entities will apply the standard’s provisions as a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective (i.e., modified retrospective approach). The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of ASU No. 2016-13 to determine the potential impact the new standard will have on the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

ASU 2016-15 - Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments. ASU 2016-15 is intended to reduce diversity in practice in how eight particular transactions are classified in the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-15 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted, provided that all of the amendments are adopted in the same period. Entities will be required to apply the guidance retrospectively. If it is impracticable to apply the guidance retrospectively for an issue, the amendments related to that issue would be applied prospectively. As this guidance only affects the classification within the statement of cash flows, ASU 2016-15 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements

 

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NOTE 2 - ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

The following table presents the components of comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. The Company’s comprehensive gains and losses were solely for securities for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.  Reclassification adjustments are recorded in non-interest income.

 

Years Ended  December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015   December 31, 2014 
(dollars in thousands)  Before
Tax
  

Tax

Effect

  

Net of

Tax

   Before
Tax
   Tax
Effect
   Net of Tax   Before
Tax
   Tax
Effect
   Net of
Tax
 
Net unrealized holding (losses) gains arising during period  $(1,095)  $(433)  $(662)  $216   $85   $131   $981   $300   $681 
Reclassification adjustments   (22)   (7)   (15)   (6)   (2)   (4)   (3)   (1)   (2)
Other comprehensive (loss) income  $(1,117)  $(440)  $(677)  $210   $83   $127   $978   $299   $679 

 

The following table presents the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

   Year Ended
December 31, 2016
   Year Ended
December 31, 2015
   Year Ended
December 31, 2014
 
(dollars in thousands)  Net Unrealized Gains
And Losses
   Net Unrealized Gains
And Losses
   Net Unrealized Gains
And Losses
 
                
Beginning of period  $(251)  $(378)  $(1,057)
Other comprehensive (losses) gains, net of tax before reclassifications   (662)   131    681 
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income   (15)   (4)   (2)
Net other comprehensive (loss) income   (677)   127    679 
End of period  $(928)  $(251)  $(378)

 

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NOTE 3 - EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic earnings per common share represent income available to common shareholders, divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share reflect additional common shares that would have been outstanding if dilutive potential common shares had been issued. Potential common shares that may be issued by the Company relate to outstanding stock options and are determined using the treasury stock method. As of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, there were 15,081, 21,211 and 87,435 options, respectively, which were excluded from the calculation as their effect would be anti-dilutive, because the exercise price of the options were greater than the average market price of the common shares. The Company has not granted any stock options since 2007 and all options outstanding at December 31, 2016 were anti-dilutive. Basic and diluted earnings per share have been computed based on weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding as follows:

 

   Years Ended 
   December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Net Income  $7,331   $6,343   $6,490 
Less: dividends paid and accrued on preferred stock   -    (23)   (200)
Net income available to common shareholders  $7,331   $6,320   $6,290 
                
Average number of common shares outstanding   4,599,502    4,676,748    4,646,424 
Dilutive effect of common stock equivalents   -    -    8,703 
Average number of shares used to calculate diluted EPS   4,599,502    4,676,748    4,655,127 

 

NOTE 4 - RESTRICTIONS ON CASH AND AMOUNTS DUE FROM BANKS

The Bank is required to maintain average balances on hand or with the Federal Reserve Bank. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, these reserve balances amounted to $1.1 million and $797,000, respectively.

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NOTE 5 - SECURITIES

   December 31, 2016 
   Amortized   Gross Unrealized   Gross Unrealized   Estimated 
(dollars in thousands)  Cost   Gains   Losses   Fair Value 
Securities available for sale (AFS)                    
Asset-backed securities issued by GSEs  and U.S. Agencies                    
Residential Mortgage Backed  Securities ("MBS")  $4,377   $-   $194   $4,183 
Residential Collateralized
Mortgage Obligations ("CMOs")
   35,176    18    966    34,228 
U.S. Agency   10,589    -    417    10,172 
Corporate equity securities   37    -    -    37 
Bond mutual funds   4,386    27    -    4,413 
Total securities available for sale  $54,565   $45   $1,577   $53,033 
                     
Securities held to maturity (HTM)                    
Asset-backed securities issued by GSEs  and U.S. Agencies                    
Residential MBS  $34,735   $367   $569   $34,533 
Residential CMOs   63,060    135    802    62,393 
U.S. Agency   6,717    -    253    6,464 
Asset-backed securities issued by Others:                    
Residential CMOs   884    -    81    803 
Total debt securities held to maturity   105,396    502    1,705    104,193 
                     
Callable GSE Agency Bonds   3,001    -    10    2,991 
U.S. government obligations   850    -    -    850 
Total securities held to maturity  $109,247   $502   $1,715   $108,034 

 

   December 31, 2015 
   Amortized   Gross Unrealized   Gross Unrealized   Estimated 
(dollars in thousands)  Cost   Gains   Losses   Fair Value 
Securities available for sale (AFS)                    
Asset-backed securities issued by GSEs                    
Residential MBS  $22   $4   $-   $26 
Residential CMOs   31,182    39    557    30,664 
Corporate equity securities   37    2    -    39 
Bond mutual funds   4,289    98    -    4,387 
Total securities available for sale  $35,530   $143   $557   $35,116 
                     
Securities held to maturity (HTM)                    
Asset-backed securities issued by GSEs                    
Residential MBS  $34,085   $552   $242   $34,395 
Residential CMOs   73,492    278    599    73,171 
Asset-backed securities issued by Others:                    
Residential CMOs   1,093    -    100    993 
Total debt securities held to maturity   108,670    830    941    108,559 
                     
U.S. government obligations   750    -    -    750 
Total securities held to maturity  $109,420   $830   $941   $109,309 

 

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At December 31, 2016, certain asset-backed securities with an amortized cost of $21.5 million were pledged to secure certain deposits. At December 31, 2016, asset-backed securities with an amortized cost of $1.6 million were pledged as collateral for advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) of Atlanta.

 

At December 31, 2016, 99% of the asset-backed securities and agency bond portfolio was rated AAA by Standard & Poor’s or the equivalent credit rating from another major rating agency. AFS asset-backed securities issued by GSEs and U.S. Agencies had an average life of 4.96 years and average duration of 4.43 years and are guaranteed by their issuer as to credit risk. HTM asset-backed securities issued by GSEs and U.S. Agencies had an average life of 5.30 years and average duration of 4.71 years and are guaranteed by their issuer as to credit risk..

 

At December 31, 2015, certain asset-backed securities with an amortized cost of $21.4 million were pledged to secure certain deposits. At December 31, 2015, asset-backed securities with an amortized cost of $1.9 million were pledged as collateral for advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) of Atlanta.

 

At December 31, 2015, 99% of the asset-backed securities and agency bond portfolio was rated AAA by Standard & Poor’s or the equivalent credit rating from another major rating agency. AFS asset-backed securities issued by GSEs and U.S. Agencies had an average life of 4.39 years and average duration of 4.04 years and are guaranteed by their issuer as to credit risk. HTM asset-backed securities issued by GSEs and U.S. Agencies had an average life of 5.07 years and average duration of 4.58 years and are guaranteed by their issuer as to credit risk..

 

We believe that AFS securities with unrealized losses will either recover in market value or be paid off as agreed. The Company intends to, and has the ability to, hold these securities to maturity. Because our intention is not to sell the investments and it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell the investments, management considers the unrealized losses in the AFS portfolio to be temporary. We believe that the losses are the result of general perceptions of safety and creditworthiness of the entire sector and a general disruption of orderly markets in the asset class.

 

Management has the ability and intent to hold the HTM securities with unrealized losses until they mature, at which time the Company will receive full value for the securities. Because our intention is not to sell the investments and it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell the investments before recovery of their amortized cost basis, which may be maturity, management considers the unrealized losses in the held-to-maturity portfolio to be temporary.

 

No charges related to other-than-temporary impairment were made during for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2016 the Company recognized net gains on the sale of securities of $31,000. The Company sold five AFS securities with aggregate carrying values of $6.5 million and one HTM security with a carrying value of $698,000, recognizing gains of $23,000 and $8,000, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company recognized net gains on the sale of securities of $4,000, which consisted of the sale of one HTM security with a carrying value of $67,000 and the call of an AFS agency bond with a carrying value of $2.0 million. These sales resulted in a loss of $1,000 for the HTM security and a gain of $5,000 for the AFS security. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company recognized net gains on the sale of securities of $19,000. The Company sold five AFS securities with aggregate carrying values of $2.1 million and 12 HTM securities with aggregate carrying values of $4.2 million, recognizing gains of $8,000 and $11,000, respectively.

 

The sale of HTM securities was permitted under ASC 320 “Investments - Debt and Equity Securities.” ASC 320 permits the sale of HTM securities for certain changes in circumstances. The Company will dispose of HTM securities using the safe harbor rule that allows for the sale of HTM securities that have principal payments paid down to less than 15% of original purchased par. ASC 320 10-25-15 indicates that a sale of a debt security after a substantial portion of the principal has been collected is equivalent to holding the security to maturity. In addition, the Company may dispose of HTM securities under ASC 320-10-25-6 due to a significant deterioration in the issues’ creditworthiness.

 

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AFS Securities

Gross unrealized losses and estimated fair value by length of time that the individual AFS securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at December 31, 2016 were as follows:

 

December 31, 2016  Less Than 12   More Than 12         
   Months   Months   Total 
(dollars in thousands)  Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
   Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
   Fair Value   Unrealized
Losses
 
Asset-backed securities issued by GSEs and U.S. Agencies  $34,262   $1,110   $11,846   $467   $46,108   $1,577 

 

At December 31, 2016, the AFS investment portfolio had an estimated fair value of $53.0 million, of which $46.1 million of the securities had some unrealized losses from their amortized cost.

 

AFS asset-backed securities issued by GSEs are guaranteed by the issuer and AFS U.S. government agency securities and bonds are guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. Total unrealized losses on the portfolio were $1.6 million of the portfolio amortized cost of $50.1 million. AFS asset-backed securities issued by GSEs and U.S. Agencies with unrealized losses had an average life of 4.91 years and an average duration of 4.37 years. Management believes that the securities will either recover in market value or be paid off as agreed.

 

Gross unrealized losses and estimated fair value by length of time that the individual AFS securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at December 31, 2015 were as follows:

 

December 31, 2015  Less Than 12   More Than 12         
   Months   Months   Total 
(dollars in thousands)  Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
   Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
   Fair Value   Unrealized
Losses
 
Asset-backed securities issued by GSEs  $4,658   $28   $17,344   $529   $22,002   $557 

 

At December 31, 2015, the AFS investment portfolio had an estimated fair value of $35.1 million, of which $22.0 million of the securities had some unrealized losses from their amortized cost. The securities with unrealized losses were CMOs issued by GSEs.

 

AFS asset-backed securities issued by GSEs are guaranteed by the issuer and AFS U.S. government agency securities and bonds are guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. Total unrealized losses on the asset-backed securities issued by GSEs were $557,000 of the portfolio amortized cost of $31.2 million. AFS asset-backed securities issued by GSEs and U.S. Agencies with unrealized losses had an average life of 4.45 years and an average duration of 4.04 years. Management believes that the securities will either recover in market value or be paid off as agreed.

 

HTM Securities

Gross unrealized losses and estimated fair value by length of time that the individual HTM securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at December 31, 2016 were as follows:

 

December 31, 2016  Less Than 12   More Than 12         
   Months   Months   Total 
(dollars in thousands)  Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
   Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
   Fair Value   Unrealized
Losses
 
Asset-backed securities issued by GSEs and U.S. Agencies   77,879    1,452    6,340    182    84,219    1,634 
Asset-backed securities issued by Others   -    -    803    81    803    81 
   $77,879   $1,452   $7,143   $263   $85,022   $1,715 

 

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At December 31, 2016, the HTM investment portfolio had an estimated fair value of $108.0 million, of which $85.0 million of the securities had some unrealized losses from their amortized cost. Of these securities, $84.2 million were asset-backed securities issued by GSEs and U.S. Agencies. The remaining $803,000 were asset-backed securities issued by others.

 

HTM asset-backed securities issued by GSEs are guaranteed by the issuer and HTM U.S. government agency securities and bonds are guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. Total unrealized losses on the portfolio were $1.6 million of the portfolio amortized cost of $108.4 million. The securities with unrealized losses had an average life of 5.06 years and an average duration of 4.49 years. Management believes that the securities will either recover in market value or be paid off as agreed. The Company intends to, and has the ability to, hold these securities to maturity.

 

HTM asset-backed securities issued by others are collateralized mortgage obligation securities. The securities have credit support tranches that absorb losses prior to the tranches that the Company owns. The Company reviews credit support positions on its securities regularly. Total unrealized losses on the asset-backed securities issued by others were $81,000 of the portfolio amortized cost of $884,000. HTM asset-backed securities issued by others with unrealized losses had an average life of 4.15 years and an average duration of 3.29 years.

 

Gross unrealized losses and estimated fair value by length of time that the individual HTM securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at December 31, 2015 were as follows:

 

December 31, 2015  Less Than 12   More Than 12         
   Months   Months   Total 
(dollars in thousands)  Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
   Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
   Fair Value   Unrealized
Losses
 
Asset-backed securities issued by GSEs  $36,337   $346   $16,430   $495   $52,767   $841 
Asset-backed securities issued by Others   -    -    993    100    993    100 
   $36,337   $346   $17,423   $595   $53,760   $941 

 

At December 31, 2015, the HTM investment portfolio had an estimated fair value of $109.3 million, of which $53.8 million of the securities had some unrealized losses from their amortized cost. Of these securities, $52.8 million were asset-backed securities issued by GSEs and the remaining $993,000 were asset-backed securities issued by others.

 

HTM securities issued by GSEs are guaranteed by the issuer and HTM U.S. government agency securities and bonds are guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. Total unrealized losses on the asset-backed securities issued by GSEs were $841,000 of the portfolio amortized cost of $107.6 million. HTM asset-backed securities issued by GSEs with unrealized losses had an average life of 5.42 years and an average duration of 4.78 years. Management believes that the securities will either recover in market value or be paid off as agreed. The Company intends to, and has the ability to, hold these securities to maturity.

 

HTM asset-backed securities issued by others are collateralized mortgage obligation securities. The securities have credit support tranches that absorb losses prior to the tranches that the Company owns. The Company reviews credit support positions on its securities regularly. Total unrealized losses on the asset-backed securities issued by others were $100,000 of the portfolio amortized cost of $1.1 million. HTM asset-backed securities issued by others with unrealized losses had an average life of 4.04 years and an average duration of 3.29 years.

 

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Maturities

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of debt securities at December 31, 2016 and 2015 by contractual maturity, are shown below. The Company has allocated the asset-backed securities into the four maturity groups listed below using the expected average life of the individual securities based on statistics provided by industry sources. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because the issuers of the securities may have the right to prepay obligations without prepayment penalties.

 

   Available for Sale   Held to Maturity 
December 31, 2016      Estimated       Estimated 
   Amortized   Fair   Amortized   Fair 
(dollars in thousands)  Cost   Value   Cost   Value 
Within one year                    
Bond mutual funds  $4,386   $4,413   $-   $- 
U.S. government obligations   -    -    850    850 
                     
Asset-backed securities & U.S. Agencies                    
Within one year   7,879    7,634    18,844    21,104 
Over one year through five years   21,481    20,813    47,168    45,339 
Over five years through ten years   13,093    12,686    29,803    28,647 
After ten years   7,689    7,450    12,582    12,094 
Total asset-backed securities   50,142    48,583    108,397    107,184 
                     
   $54,528   $52,996   $109,247   $108,034 

 

   Available for Sale   Held to Maturity 
December 31, 2015      Estimated       Estimated 
   Amortized   Fair   Amortized   Fair 
(dollars in thousands)  Cost   Value   Cost   Value 
Within one year                    
Bond mutual funds  $4,289   $4,387   $-   $- 
U.S. government obligations   -    -    750    750 
                     
Asset-backed securities                    
Within one year   6,075    5,975    21,850    21,828 
Over one year through five years   15,355    15,102    50,895    50,843 
Over five years through ten years   7,727    7,600    23,259    23,235 
After ten years   2,047    2,013    12,666    12,653 
Total asset-backed securities   31,204    30,690    108,670    108,559 
                     
   $35,493   $35,077   $109,420   $109,309 

 

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Credit Quality of Asset-Backed Securities

The tables below present the Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”) or equivalent credit rating from other major rating agencies for AFS and HTM asset-backed securities issued by GSEs and U.S. Agencies and others or bonds issued by GSEs or U.S. government agencies at December 31, 2016 and 2015 by carrying value. The Company considers noninvestment grade securities rated BB+ or lower as classified assets for regulatory and financial reporting. GSE asset-backed securities and GSE agency bonds with S&P AA+ ratings were treated as AAA based on regulatory guidance.

 

December 31, 2016  December 31, 2015
Credit Rating  Amount   Credit Rating  Amount 
(dollars in thousands)
AAA  $156,947   AAA  $138,267 
BB   411   BB   518 
B+   472   B+   575 
Total  $157,830   Total  $139,360 

 

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NOTE 6 - LOANS

Loans consist of the following:

 

(dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2016   %   December 31, 2015   % 
                 
Commercial real estate  $667,105    61.25%  $538,888    58.64%
Residential first mortgages   171,004    15.70%   131,401    14.30%
Residential rentals   101,897    9.36%   93,157    10.14%
Construction and land development   36,934    3.39%   36,189    3.94%
Home equity and second mortgages   21,399    1.97%   21,716    2.36%
Commercial loans   50,484    4.64%   67,246    7.32%
Consumer loans   422    0.04%   366    0.04%
Commercial equipment   39,737    3.65%   29,931    3.26%
    1,088,982    100.00%   918,894    100.00%
Less:                    
Deferred loan fees and premiums   (397)   -0.04%   1,154    0.13%
Allowance for loan losses   9,860    0.91%   8,540    0.93%
    9,463         9,694      
   $1,079,519        $909,200      

 

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank’s allowance for loan losses totaled $9.9 million and $8.5 million, or 0.91% and 0.93%, respectively, of loan balances. Management’s determination of the adequacy of the allowance is based on a periodic evaluation of the portfolio with consideration given to the overall loss experience, current economic conditions, size, growth and composition of the loan portfolio, financial condition of the borrowers and other relevant factors that, in management’s judgment, warrant recognition in providing an adequate allowance.

 

Deferred loan fees and premiums include net deferred fees paid by customers of $2.7 million and $2.6 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. These were offset by net deferred premiums paid for the purchase of residential first mortgages and deferred costs of $3.1 million and $1.4 million, respectively, at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Prior to April 1, 2016, loans secured by residential rental property were included in the residential first mortgage and commercial real estate loan portfolios. Beginning in the second quarter of 2016, the Company segregated loans secured by residential rental property into a new loan portfolio segment. Residential rental property includes income producing properties comprising 1-4 family units and apartment buildings. The Company’s decision to segregate the residential rental property portfolio for financial reporting was based on the growth and size of the portfolio and risk characteristics unique to residential rental properties. Comparative financial information was reclassified to conform to the classification presented in 2016.

 

Risk Characteristics of Portfolio Segments

The Company manages its credit products and exposure to credit losses (credit risk) by the following specific portfolio segments (classes), which are levels at which the Company develops and documents its allowance for loan loss methodology. These segments are:

 

Commercial Real Estate (“CRE”)

Commercial and other real estate projects include office buildings, retail locations, churches, other special purpose buildings and commercial construction. Commercial construction balances were 9.3% and 6.1% of the CRE portfolio at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The Bank offers both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate loans under these product lines. The primary security on a commercial real estate loan is the real property and the leases that produce income for the real property. Loans secured by commercial real estate are generally limited to 80% of the lower of the appraised value or sales price at origination and have an initial contractual loan payment period ranging from three to 20 years.

 

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Loans secured by commercial real estate are larger and involve greater risks than one-to four-family residential mortgage loans. Because payments on loans secured by such properties are often dependent on the successful operation or management of the properties, repayment of such loans may be subject to a greater extent to adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy.

 

Residential First Mortgages

Residential first mortgage loans are generally long-term loans, amortized on a monthly basis, with principal and interest due each month. The contractual loan payment period for residential loans typically ranges from ten to 30 years. The Bank’s experience indicates that real estate loans remain outstanding for significantly shorter time periods than their contractual terms. Borrowers may refinance or prepay loans at their option, without penalty. The Bank’s residential portfolio has both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate residential first mortgages. During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank purchased residential first mortgages of $64.2 million and $3.0 million, respectively.

 

The annual and lifetime limitations on interest rate adjustments may limit the increases in interest rates on these loans. There are also credit risks resulting from potential increased costs to the borrower as a result of repricing of adjustable-rate mortgage loans. During periods of rising interest rates, the risk of default on adjustable-rate mortgage loans may increase due to the upward adjustment of interest cost to the borrower. The Bank’s adjustable rate residential first mortgage portfolio was $45.6 million or 4.2% of total gross loans of $1.1 billion at December 31, 2016 compared to $18.9 million or 2.1% of gross loans of $918.9 million at December 31, 2015.

 

Residential Rentals

Residential rental mortgage loans are amortizing, with principal and interest due each month. The loans are secured by income-producing 1-4 family units and apartments. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, $84.9 million and $80.8 million, respectively, were 1-4 family units and $17.0 million and $12.4 million, respectively, were apartment buildings. Loans secured by residential rental properties are generally limited to 80% of the lower of the appraised value or sales price at origination and have an initial contractual loan payment period ranging from three to 20 years. The primary security on a residential rental loan is the property and the leases that produce income.

 

Loans secured by residential rental properties involve greater risks than 1-4 family residential mortgage loans. Although, there are similar risk characteristics shared with commercial real estate loans, the balances for the loans secured by residential rental properties are generally smaller. Because payments on loans secured residential rental properties are often dependent on the successful operation or management of the properties, repayment of these loans may be subject to a greater extent to adverse conditions in the rental real estate market or the economy than similar owner occupied properties.

 

Construction and Land Development

The Bank offers loans for the construction of one-to-four family dwellings. Generally, these loans are secured by the real estate under construction as well as by guarantees of the principals involved. In addition, the Bank offers loans to acquire and develop land, as well as loans on undeveloped, subdivided lots for home building.

 

A decline in demand for new housing might adversely affect the ability of borrowers to repay these loans. Construction and land development loans are inherently riskier than providing financing on owner-occupied real estate. The Bank’s risk of loss is affected by the accuracy of the initial estimate of the market value of the completed project as well as the accuracy of the cost estimates made to complete the project. In addition, the volatility of the real estate market has made it increasingly difficult to ensure that the valuation of land associated with these loans is accurate. During the construction phase, a number of factors could result in delays and cost overruns. If the estimate of construction costs proves to be inaccurate, the Bank may be required to advance funds beyond the amount originally committed to permit completion of the development. If the estimate of value proves to be inaccurate, a project’s value might be insufficient to assure full repayment. As a result of these factors, construction lending often involves the disbursement of substantial funds with repayment dependent, in part, on the success of the project rather than the ability of the borrower or guarantor to repay principal and interest. If the Bank forecloses on a project, there can be no assurance that the Bank will be able to recover all of the unpaid balance of, and accrued interest on, the loan as well as related foreclosure and holding costs.

 

Home Equity and Second Mortgage Loans

The Bank maintains a portfolio of home equity and second mortgage loans. These products contain a higher risk of default than residential first mortgages as in the event of foreclosure, the first mortgage would need to be paid off prior to collection of the second mortgage. This risk has been heightened as the market value of residential property has declined.

 

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Commercial Loans

The Bank offers commercial loans to its business customers. The Bank offers a variety of commercial loan products including term loans and lines of credit. Such loans are generally made for terms of five years or less. The Bank offers both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate loans under these product lines. When making commercial business loans, the Bank considers the financial condition of the borrower, the borrower’s payment history of both corporate and personal debt, the projected cash flows of the business, the viability of the industry in which the consumer operates, the value of the collateral, and the borrower’s ability to service the debt from income. These loans are primarily secured by equipment, real property, accounts receivable, or other security as determined by the Bank.

 

Commercial loans are made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from the cash flows of the borrower’s business. As a result, the availability of funds for the repayment of commercial loans may depend substantially on the success of the business itself.

 

Consumer Loans

Consumer loans consist of loans secured by automobiles, boats, recreational vehicles and trucks. The Bank also makes home improvement loans and offers both secured and unsecured personal lines of credit. Consumer loans entail greater risk from other loan types due to being secured by rapidly depreciating assets or the reliance on the borrower’s continuing financial stability.

 

Commercial Equipment Loans

These loans consist primarily of fixed-rate, short-term loans collateralized by a commercial customer’s equipment. When making commercial equipment loans, the Bank considers the same factors it considers when underwriting a commercial business loan. Commercial loans are of higher risk and typically are made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from the cash flows of the borrower’s business. As a result, the availability of funds for the repayment of commercial loans may depend substantially on the success of the business itself. In the case of business failure, collateral would need to be liquidated to provide repayment for the loan. In many cases, the highly specialized nature of collateral equipment would make full recovery from the sale of collateral problematic.

 

Non-accrual and Past Due Loans

 Non-accrual loans as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were as follows:

 

   December 31, 2016 
(dollars in thousands)  90 or Greater
Days
Delinquent
   Number
of Loans
   Non-accrual
Only Loans
   Number
of Loans
   Total
Non-accrual
Loans
   Total
Number
of Loans
 
                         
Commercial real estate  $2,371    7   $-    -   $2,371    7 
Residential first mortgages   623    4    -    -    623    4 
Residential rentals   577    4    -    -    577    4 
Construction and land development   3,048    2    -    -    3,048    2 
Home equity and second mortgages   61    2    -    -    61    2 
Commercial loans   375    3    669    2    1,044    5 
Commercial equipment   650    5    -    -    650    5 
   $7,705    27   $669    2   $8,374    29 

 

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   December 31, 2015 
(dollars in thousands)  90 or Greater
Days
Delinquent
   Number
of Loans
   Non-accrual
Only Loans
   Number
of Loans
   Total
Non-accrual
Loans
   Total
Number
of Loans
 
                         
Commercial real estate  $2,875    7   $-    -   $2,875    7 
Residential first mortgages   1,948    7    -    -    1,948    7 
Residential rentals   605    4    -    -    605    4 
Construction and land development   3,555    3    -    -    3,555    3 
Home equity and second mortgages   48    3    -    -    48    3 
Commercial loans   1,361    8    693    2    2,054    10 
Commercial equipment   348    4    -    -    348    4 
   $10,740    36   $693    2   $11,433    38 

 

Non-accrual loans (90 days or greater delinquent and non-accrual only loans) decreased $3.0 million from $11.4 million or 1.24% of total loans at December 31, 2015 to $8.4 million or 0.77% of total loans at December 31, 2016. Non-accrual only loans are loans classified as non-accrual due to customer operating results or payment history. In accordance with the Company’s policy, interest income is recognized on a cash basis for these loans.

 

Non-accrual loans at December 31, 2016 included $6.4 million, or 77% of non-accrual loans, attributed to 15 loans representing six customer relationships classified as substandard. Non-accrual loans at December 31, 2015 included $8.1 million, or 71% of non-accrual loans, attributed to 19 loans representing six customer relationships classified as substandard. Non-accrual loans included six troubled debt restructures (“TDRs”) totaling $4.7 million at December 31, 2016 and seven TDRs totaling $5.4 million at December 31, 2015. These loans are classified solely as non-accrual loans for the calculation of financial ratios.

 

Non-accrual loans on which the recognition of interest has been discontinued, which did not have a specific allowance for impairment, amounted to $7.8 million and $10.5 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Interest due but not recognized on these balances at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $947,000 and $953,000, respectively. Non-accrual loans with a specific allowance for impairment on which the recognition of interest has been discontinued amounted to $575,000 and $902,000 at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Interest due but not recognized on these balances at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $156,000 and $34,000, respectively.

 

An analysis of past due loans as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 was as follows:

 

   December 31, 2016 
(dollars in thousands)  Current   31-60
Days
   61-89
Days
   90 or Greater
Days
   Total
Past Due
   Total
Loan
Receivables
 
Commercial real estate  $664,250   $-   $484   $2,371   $2,855   $667,105 
Residential first mortgages   170,381    -    -    623    623    171,004 
Residential rentals   101,309    -    11    577    588    101,897 
Construction and land dev.   33,886    -    -    3,048    3,048    36,934 
Home equity and second mtg.   21,175    130    33    61    224    21,399 
Commercial loans   49,778    331    -    375    706    50,484 
Consumer loans   420    -    2    -    2    422 
Commercial equipment   39,044    42    1    650    693    39,737 
Total  $1,080,243   $503   $531   $7,705   $8,739   $1,088,982 

 

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   December 31, 2015 
(dollars in thousands)  Current   31-60
Days
   61-89
Days
   90 or Greater
Days
   Total
Past Due
   Total
Loan
Receivables
 
Commercial real estate  $536,013   $-   $-   $2,875   $2,875   $538,888 
Residential first mortgages   129,154    -    299    1,948    2,247    131,401 
Residential rentals   92,552    -    -    605    605    93,157 
Construction and land dev.   32,634    -    -    3,555    3,555    36,189 
Home equity and second mtg.   21,603    65    -    48    113    21,716 
Commercial loans   65,747    -    138    1,361    1,499    67,246 
Consumer loans   365    -    1    -    1    366 
Commercial equipment   29,138    152    293    348    793    29,931 
Total  $907,206   $217   $731   $10,740   $11,688   $918,894 

 

There were no loans greater than 90 days still accruing interest at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Impaired Loans and Troubled Debt Restructures (“TDRs”)

Impaired loans, including TDRs, at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

 

   December 31, 2016 
(dollars in thousands)  Unpaid
Contractual
Principal
Balance
   Recorded
Investment
With No
Allowance
   Recorded
Investment
With
Allowance
   Total
Recorded
Investment
   Related
Allowance
   Average
Recorded
Investment
   Interest
Income
Recognized
 
                             
Commercial real estate  $22,195   $14,896   $7,081   $21,977   $806   $22,303   $908 
Residential first mortgages   2,436    1,938    475    2,413    7    2,445    90 
Residential rentals   3,440    2,850    178    3,028    36    3,486    134 
Construction and land dev.   4,304    2,926    851    3,777    178    3,867    16 
Home equity and second mtg.   170    170    -    170    -    176    7 
Commercial loans   3,285    3,004    200    3,204    123    3,442    137 
Commercial equipment   855    652    139    791    139    815    17 
Total  $36,685   $26,436   $8,924   $35,360   $1,289   $36,534   $1,309 

 

   December 31, 2015 
(dollars in thousands)  Unpaid
Contractual
Principal
Balance
   Recorded
Investment
With No
Allowance
   Recorded
Investment
With
Allowance
   Total
Recorded
Investment
   Related
Allowance
   Average
Recorded
Investment
   Interest
Income
Recognized
 
                             
Commercial real estate  $21,477   $19,081   $2,367   $21,448   $601   $21,786   $774 
Residential first mortgages   4,226    3,730    495    4,225    27    4,276    141 
Residential rentals   4,473    3,893    181    4,074    40    4,400    170 
Construction and land dev.   4,283    3,780    504    4,284    471    4,302    13 
Home equity and second mtg.   154    154    -    154    -    163    8 
Commercial loans   4,775    4,195    380    4,575    330    4,524    251 
Commercial equipment   518    338    139    477    139    491    9 
Total  $39,906   $35,171   $4,066   $39,237   $1,608   $39,942   $1,366 

 

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TDRs, included in the impaired loan schedules above, as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

 

   December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015 
(dollars in thousands)  Dollars   Number
of Loans
   Dollars   Number
of Loans
 
                 
Commercial real estate  $9,587    8   $9,839    8 
Residential first mortgages   545    2    881    3 
Residential rentals   227    1    2,058    5 
Construction and land development   3,777    4    4,283    4 
Commercial loans   872    5    1,384    8 
Commercial equipment   113    2    123    2 
Total TDRs  $15,121    22   $18,568    30 
Less: TDRs included in non-accrual loans   (4,673)   (6)   (5,435)   (7)
Total accrual TDR loans  $10,448    16   $13,133    23 

 

TDRs decreased $3.4 million from $18.6 million at December 31, 2015 to $15.1 million at December 31, 2016. TDRs that are included in non-accrual are classified solely as non-accrual loans for the calculation of financial ratios. The Company had specific reserves of $844,000 on nine TDRs totaling $5.7 million at December 31, 2016 and $1.3 million on nine TDRs totaling $3.6 million at December 31, 2015. Interest income in the amount of $357,000 and $508,000 was recognized on outstanding TDR loans for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 the Company added one TDR loan totaling $196,000 million and 10 TDR loans totaling $3.2 million, respectively. TDR disposals, which included payoffs and refinancing for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 decreased by nine loans or $2.1 million and four loans or $2.1 million, respectively. TDR loan principal curtailment was $1.6 million and $677,000 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

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Allowance for Loan Losses

The following tables detail activity in the allowance for loan losses at and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. An allocation of the allowance to one category of loans does not prevent the Company from using that allowance to absorb losses in a different category.

 

Year Ended  December 31, 2016 
(dollars in thousands)  Beginning Balance   Charge-offs   Recoveries   Provisions   Ending
Balance
 
Commercial real estate  $3,465   $-   $58   $1,689   $5,212 
Residential first mortgages   584    -    -    822    1,406 
Residential rentals   538    (14)   -    (162)   362 
Construction and land development   1,103    (526)   1    363    941 
Home equity and second mortgages   142    -    5    (9)   138 
Commercial loans   1,477    (594)   18    (107)   794 
Consumer loans   2    (1)   -    2    3 
Commercial equipment   1,229    (34)   48    (239)   1,004 
   $8,540   $(1,169)  $130   $2,359   $9,860 

 

Year Ended  December 31, 2015 
(dollars in thousands)  Beginning Balance   Charge-offs   Recoveries   Provisions   Ending
Balance
 
Commercial real estate  $3,528   $(78)  $17   $(2)  $3,465 
Residential first mortgages   1,047    (30)   1    (434)   584 
Residential rentals   593    -    -    (55)   538 
Construction and land development   1,071    -    32    -    1,103 
Home equity and second mortgages   173    (100)   -    69    142 
Commercial loans   1,677    (432)   11    221    1,477 
Consumer loans   3    -    -    (1)   2 
Commercial equipment   389    (818)   23    1,635    1,229 
   $8,481   $(1,458)  $84   $1,433   $8,540 

 

Year Ended  December 31, 2014 
(dollars in thousands)  Beginning Balance   Charge-offs   Recoveries   Provisions   Ending
Balance
 
Commercial real estate  $3,051   $(195)  $11   $661   $3,528 
Residential first mortgages   1,343    (94)   186    (388)   1,047 
Residential rentals   532    (155)   -    216    593 
Construction and land development   584    (992)   84    1,395    1,071 
Home equity and second mortgages   249    (59)   10    (27)   173 
Commercial loans   1,916    (1,134)   5    890    1,677 
Consumer loans   10    (3)   11    (15)   3 
Commercial equipment   453    (10)   25    (79)   389 
   $8,138   $(2,642)  $332   $2,653   $8,481 

 

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The following tables detail loan receivable and allowance balances disaggregated on the basis of the Company’s impairment methodology at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

   December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015 
(dollars in thousands)  Ending balance:
individually
evaluated for
impairment
   Ending balance:
collectively
evaluated for
impairment
   Total   Ending balance:
individually
evaluated for
impairment
   Ending balance:
collectively
evaluated for
impairment
   Total 
Loan Receivables:                              
Commercial real estate  $21,977   $645,128   $667,105   $21,448   $517,440   $538,888 
Residential first mortgages   2,413    168,591    171,004    4,225    127,176    131,401 
Residential rentals   3,028    98,869    101,897    4,074    89,083    93,157 
Construction and land development   3,777    33,157    36,934    4,284    31,905    36,189 
Home equity and second mortgages   170    21,229    21,399    154    21,562    21,716 
Commercial loans   3,204    47,280    50,484    4,575    62,671    67,246 
Consumer loans   -    422    422    -    366    366 
Commercial equipment   791    38,946    39,737    477    29,454    29,931 
   $35,360   $1,053,622   $1,088,982   $39,237   $879,657   $918,894 
                               
Allowance for loan losses:                              
Commercial real estate  $806   $4,406   $5,212   $601   $2,864   $3,465 
Residential first mortgages   7    1,399    1,406    27    557    584 
Residential rentals   36    326    362    40    498    538 
Construction and land development   178    763    941    471    632    1,103 
Home equity and second mortgages   -    138    138    -    142    142 
Commercial loans   123    671    794    330    1,147    1,477 
Consumer loans   -    3    3    -    2    2 
Commercial equipment   139    865    1,004    139    1,090    1,229 
   $1,289   $8,571   $9,860   $1,608   $6,932   $8,540 

 

During the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company expanded its factor scoring categories from three levels to five levels to capture additional movements in qualitative factors used to calculate the general allowance of each portfolio segment. No additional qualitative factors were added to the Company’s methodology as part of this change. There were no material changes to the existing allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment or in the aggregate as a result of the change.

 

104 

 

 

Credit Quality Indicators

 

Credit quality indicators as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

 

Credit Risk Profile by Internally Assigned Grade

 

   Commercial Real Estate   Construction and Land Dev.   Residential Rentals 

(dollars in

thousands)

  12/31/2016   12/31/2015   12/31/2016   12/31/2015   12/31/2016   12/31/2015 
                         
Unrated  $51,503   $51,924   $1,632   $4,399   $25,563   $21,585 
Pass   594,768    466,601    31,525    27,507    74,989    67,926 
Special mention   -    250    -    -    -    845 
Substandard   20,834    20,113    3,777    3,845    1,345    2,801 
Doubtful   -    -    -    438    -    - 
Loss   -    -    -    -    -    - 
Total  $667,105   $538,888   $36,934   $36,189   $101,897   $93,157 

 

   Commercial Loans   Commercial Equipment   Total Commercial Portfolios 

(dollars in

thousands)

  12/31/2016   12/31/2015   12/31/2016   12/31/2015   12/31/2016   12/31/2015 
                         
Unrated  $11,266   $11,281   $11,769   $10,074   $101,733   $99,263 
Pass   36,221    51,569    27,290    19,610    764,793    633,213 
Special mention   -    -    -    -    -    1,095 
Substandard   2,997    4,110    541    110    29,494    30,979 
Doubtful   -    286    137    137    137    861 
Loss   -    -    -    -    -    - 
Total  $50,484   $67,246   $39,737   $29,931   $896,157   $765,411 

 

Credit Risk Profile Based on Payment Activity

 

   Residential First Mortgages   Home Equity and Second Mtg.   Consumer Loans 

(dollars in

thousands)

  12/31/2016   12/31/2015   12/31/2016   12/31/2015   12/31/2016   12/31/2015 
                         
Performing  $170,381   $129,453   $21,338   $21,668   $422   $366 
Nonperforming   623    1,948    61    48    -    - 
Total  $171,004   $131,401   $21,399   $21,716   $422   $366 

 

A risk grading scale is used to assign grades to commercial relationships, which include commercial real estate, residential rentals, construction and land development, commercial loans and commercial equipment loans. Loans are graded at inception, annually thereafter when financial statements are received and at other times when there is an indication that a credit may have weakened or improved. Only commercial loan relationships with an aggregate exposure to the Bank of $750,000 or greater are subject to being risk rated.

 

Home equity and second mortgages and consumer loans are evaluated for creditworthiness in underwriting and are monitored based on borrower payment history. Residential first mortgages are evaluated for creditworthiness during credit due diligence before being purchased. Residential first mortgages, home equity and second mortgages and consumer loans are classified as unrated unless they are part of a larger commercial relationship that requires grading or are troubled debt restructures or nonperforming loans with an Other Assets Especially Mentioned (“OAEM”) or higher risk rating due to a delinquent payment history.

 

105 

 

 

Management regularly reviews credit quality indicators as part of its individual loan reviews and on a monthly and quarterly basis. The overall quality of the Bank’s loan portfolio is assessed using the Bank’s risk grading scale, the level and trends of net charge-offs, nonperforming loans and delinquencies, the performance of troubled debt restructured loans and the general economic conditions in the Company’s geographical market. This review process is assisted by frequent internal reporting of loan production, loan quality, concentrations of credit, loan delinquencies and nonperforming and potential problem loans. Credit quality indicators and allowance factors are adjusted based on management’s judgment during the monthly and quarterly review process. Loans subject to risk ratings are graded on a scale of one to ten. The Company considers loans classified substandard, doubtful and loss as classified assets for regulatory and financial reporting.

 

Ratings 1 thru 6 - Pass

Ratings 1 thru 6 have asset risks ranging from excellent low risk to adequate. The specific rating assigned considers customer history of earnings, cash flows, liquidity, leverage, capitalization, consistency of debt service coverage, the nature and extent of customer relationship and other relevant specific business factors such as the stability of the industry or market area, changes to management, litigation or unexpected events that could have an impact on risks.

 

Rating 7 - OAEM (Other Assets Especially Mentioned) – Special Mention

These credits, while protected by the financial strength of the borrowers, guarantors or collateral, have reduced quality due to economic conditions, less than adequate earnings performance or other factors which require the lending officer to direct more than normal attention to the credit. Financing alternatives may be limited and/or command higher risk interest rates. OAEM loans are the first adversely classified assets on our watch list. These relationships will be reviewed at least quarterly.

 

Rating 8 - Substandard

Substandard assets are assets that are inadequately protected by the sound worth or paying capacity of the borrower or of the collateral pledged. These assets have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the possibility that the Bank will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. Loss potential, while existing in the aggregate amount of substandard assets, does not have to exist in individual assets classified substandard. The loans may have a delinquent history or combination of weak collateral, weak guarantor strength or operating losses. When a loan is assigned to this category the Bank may estimate a specific reserve in the loan loss allowance analysis. These assets listed may include assets with histories of repossessions or some that are non-performing bankruptcies. These relationships will be reviewed at least quarterly.

 

Rating 9 - Doubtful

Doubtful assets have many of the same characteristics of Substandard with the exception that the Bank has determined that loss is not only possible but is probable and the risk is close to certain that loss will occur. When a loan is assigned to this category the Bank will identify the probable loss and the loan will receive a specific reserve in the loan loss allowance analysis. These relationships will be reviewed at least quarterly.

 

Rating 10 – Loss

Once an asset is identified as a definite loss to the Bank, it will receive the classification of “loss”. There may be some future potential recovery; however it is more practical to write off the loan at the time of classification. Losses will be taken in the period in which they are determined to be uncollectable.

 

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Maturity of Loan Portfolio

The following table sets forth certain information at December 31, 2016 and 2015 regarding the dollar amount of loans maturing in the Bank’s portfolio based on their contractual terms to maturity. Demand loans, loans having no stated schedule of repayments and no stated maturity, and overdrafts are reported as due in one year or less.

 

December 31, 2016  Due within one   Due after one year   Due more than 
(dollars in thousands)  year after   through five years from   five years from 
Description of Asset  December 31, 2016   December 31, 2016   December 31, 2016 
Real Estate Loans               
Commercial  $86,782   $128,431   $451,892 
Residential first mortgage   8,501    34,592    127,911 
Residential rentals   3,847    17,911    80,139 
Construction and land development   23,674    10,212    3,048 
Home equity and second mortgage   296    877    20,226 
Commercial loans   50,484    -    - 
Consumer loans   163    164    95 
Commercial equipment   10,049    18,812    10,876 
Total loans  $183,796   $210,999   $694,187 

 

December 31, 2015  Due within one   Due after one year   Due more than 
(dollars in thousands)  year after   through five years from   five years from 
Description of Asset  December 31, 2015   December 31, 2015   December 31, 2015 
Real Estate Loans               
Commercial  $50,413   $109,037   $379,438 
Residential first mortgage   6,989    28,245    96,167 
Residential rentals   3,517    16,375    73,265 
Construction and land development   27,609    5,025    3,555 
Home equity and second mortgage   330    1,134    20,252 
Commercial loans   67,246    -    - 
Consumer loans   200    150    16 
Commercial equipment   7,899    17,635    4,397 
Total loans  $164,203   $177,601   $577,090 

 

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The following table sets forth the dollar amount of all loans due after one year from December 31, 2016 and 2015, which have predetermined interest rates and have floating or adjustable interest rates.

 

December 31, 2016            
(dollars in thousands)      Floating or     
Description of Asset  Fixed Rates   Adjustable Rates   Total 
Real Estate Loans               
Commercial  $124,549   $455,774   $580,323 
Residential first mortgage   118,205    44,298    162,503 
Residential rentals   17,499    80,551    98,050 
Construction and land development   4,533    8,727    13,260 
Home equity and second mortgage   1,454    19,649    21,103 
Commercial loans   -    -    - 
Consumer loans   259    -    259 
Commercial equipment   24,635    5,053    29,688 
   $291,134   $614,052   $905,186 

 

December 31, 2015            
(dollars in thousands)      Floating or     
Description of Asset  Fixed Rates   Adjustable Rates   Total 
Real Estate Loans               
Commercial   111,557    376,918    488,475 
Residential first mortgage   96,056    28,356    124,412 
Residential rentals   15,998    73,642    89,640 
Construction and land development   3,555    5,025    8,580 
Home equity and second mortgage   1,806    19,580    21,386 
Commercial loans   -    -    - 
Consumer loans   166    -    166 
Commercial equipment   20,145    1,887    22,032 
   $249,283   $505,408   $754,691 

 

Related Party Loans

Included in loans receivable were loans made to executive officers and directors of the Bank. These loans were made in the ordinary course of business at substantially the same terms and conditions as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with persons not affiliated with the Bank and are not considered to involve more than the normal risk of collectability. For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, all loans to directors and executive officers of the Bank performed according to original loan terms. Activity in loans outstanding to executive officers and directors are summarized as follows:

 

   At and For the Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
             
Balance, beginning of period  $28,105   $24,403   $16,601 
Loans and additions   2,547    6,822    407 
Change in Directors' status   2,299    (642)   8,953 
Repayments   (6,487)   (2,478)   (1,558)
Balance, end of period  $26,464   $28,105   $24,403 

 

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NOTE 7 - LOAN SERVICING

Loans serviced for others are not reflected in the accompanying balance sheets. The unpaid principal balances of mortgages serviced for others were $52.0 million and $63.0 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Servicing loans for others generally consists of collecting mortgage payments, maintaining escrow accounts, disbursing payments to investors and foreclosure processing. Loan servicing income is recorded on an accrual basis and includes servicing fees from investors and certain charges collected from borrowers, such as late payment fees. The following table presents the activity of the mortgage servicing rights.

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Balance, beginning of the year  $219   $295   $306 
Additions   -    31    102 
Amortization   (91)   (107)   (113)
Balance, end of the year  $128   $219   $295 

 

NOTE 8 - OTHER REAL ESTATE OWNED (“OREO”)

OREO assets are presented net of the allowance for losses. The Company considers OREO as classified assets for regulatory and financial reporting. OREO carrying amounts reflect management’s estimate of the realizable value of these properties incorporating current appraised values, local real estate market conditions and related costs. An analysis of the activity follows.

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Balance at beginning of year  $9,449   $5,883   $6,797 
Additions of underlying property   3,120    5,436    2,742 
Disposals of underlying property   (3,860)   (1,206)   (2,422)
Transfers to premises or loans   (372)   -    (1,000)
Valuation allowance   (574)   (664)   (234)
Balance at end of period  $7,763   $9,449   $5,883 

 

The Company recognized net losses on OREO disposals of $436,000 for the year ended December 31, 2016. Disposals consisted of properties with the following carrying values; $337,000 for seven residential lots, $584,000 for four residential properties, $501,000 for two commercial properties, $138,000 for a commercial lot and $2.2 million for an apartment and condominium property. The Bank provided financing for the apartment and condominium purchase and the transaction qualified for full accrual sales treatment under ASC Topic 360-20-40 “Property Plant and Equipment – Derecognition”. In addition, the Company transferred one commercial condominium with a carrying value of $372,000 into premises for commercial lending office space.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Bank recognized $20,000 in losses on the sale of OREO which consisted of the sale of eight properties for net proceeds of $1.2 million. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Bank recognized $322,000 in gains on the sale of OREO which consisted of the sale of eight properties for net proceeds of $3.7 million, which included the financing of $1.0 million dollars on a residential subdivision that was transferred from OREO to loans during the fourth quarter of 2014. The contracted sales price of $1.4 million on the residential subdivision qualified for full accrual sales treatment under ASC Topic 360-20-40 “Property Plant and Equipment – Derecognition”.

 

The Company had $353,000 and $826,000 of impaired loans secured by residential real estate for which formal foreclosure proceedings were in process as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

109 

 

 

Additions to the valuation allowances of $574,000, $664,000 and $234,000 were taken to adjust properties to current appraised values for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. OREO carrying amounts reflect management’s estimate of the realizable value of these properties incorporating current appraised values, local real estate market conditions and related costs. Expenses applicable to OREO assets include the following.

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Valuation allowance  $574   $664   $234 
Operating expenses   287    395    152 
   $861   $1,059   $386 

 

NOTE 9 - PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT AND HELD FOR SALE PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

A summary of the cost and accumulated depreciation of premises and equipment at December 31, 2016 and 2015 follows:

 

   December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015 
         
Land  $4,172   $4,172 
Building and improvements   22,586    19,737 
Furniture and equipment   8,989    8,310 
Automobiles   313    382 
Total cost   36,060    32,601 
Less accumulated depreciation   13,855    12,445 
Premises and equipment, net  $22,205   $20,156 

 

Certain Bank facilities are leased under various operating leases. Rent expense was $723,000, $701,000 and $647,000 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Future minimum rental commitments under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows at December 31, 2016:

 

(dollar in thousands)
2017  $739 
2018   749 
2019   628 
2020   518 
2021   531 
Thereafter   4,457 
      
Total  $7,622 

 

During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company agreed to sell its King George, Virginia branch building and equipment to a credit union. The required conditions were met during the third quarter of 2015 to classify the asset as held for sale (“HFS”) under FASB 360-10-45-9 which addresses accounting and reporting for long-lived assets to be disposed of by sale. FASB ASC 360-10-35-43 states that a long-lived asset classified as HFS should be measured at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell. Based on the contracted sales price, the Company recorded an impairment of $426,000 during the third quarter of 2015. The transaction closed on January 28, 2016. As of December 31, 2016, the Company had a small office condo held for sale with a fair value of $345,000.

 

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NOTE 10 - DEPOSITS

Deposits consist of the following:

 

   December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015 
Noninterest-bearing demand  $144,877   $142,771 
Interest-bearing:          
Demand   162,823    120,918 
Money market deposits   248,049    219,956 
Savings   50,284    47,703 
Certificates of deposit   432,792    375,551 
Total interest-bearing   893,948    764,128 
           
Total Deposits  $1,038,825   $906,899 

 

As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, there were $6.2 million and $5.6 million, respectively in deposit accounts held by executive officers and directors of the Bank and Company.

 

The aggregate amount of certificates of deposit in denominations of $100,000 or more at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $287.6 million and $222.3 million, respectively. The aggregate amount of certificates of deposit in denominations of $250,000 or more at December 31, 2016, and 2015 was $153.9 million and $98.6 million, respectively.

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the scheduled contractual maturities of certificates of deposit are as follows:

 

   December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015 
Within one year  $306,089   $230,559 
Year 2   79,474    96,098 
Year 3   31,921    32,975 
Year 4   8,353    5,454 
Year 5   6,955    10,465 
   $432,792   $375,551 

 

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NOTE 11 - SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS AND LONG-TERM DEBT

The Bank’s long-term debt and short-term borrowings consist of advances from the FHLB of Atlanta. The Bank classifies debt based upon original maturity and does not reclassify debt to short-term status during its life. Long-term debt and short-term borrowings include fixed-rate long-term advances, short-term advances, daily advances, fixed-rate convertible advances, and variable-rate convertible advances.

 

Rates and maturities on long-term advances and short-term borrowings were as follows:

 

   Fixed-   Fixed-Rate   Variable 
   Rate   Convertible   Convertible 
December 31, 2016               
Highest rate   2.83%   3.47%   4.00%
Lowest rate   0.54%   3.47%   4.00%
Weighted average rate   1.05%   3.47%   4.00%
Matures through   2036    2018    2020 
                
December 31, 2015               
Highest rate   2.83%   3.47%   4.00%
Lowest rate   0.26%   3.47%   4.00%
Weighted average rate   1.07%   3.47%   4.00%
Matures through   2036    2018    2020 

 

Average rates of long-term debt and short-term borrowings were as follows:

 

   At or for the Year Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
             
Long-term debt               
Long-term debt outstanding at end of period  $65,559   $55,617   $74,672 
Weighted average rate on outstanding long-term debt   2.27%   2.47%   2.35%
Maximum outstanding long-term debt of any month end   65,593    74,668    75,471 
Average outstanding long-term debt   60,503    68,924    74,714 
Approximate average rate paid on long-term debt   2.41%   2.26%   2.39%
                
Short-term borrowings               
Short-term borrowings outstanding at end of period  $79,000   $36,000   $2,000 
Weighted average rate on short-term borrowings   0.71%   0.38%   0.31%
Maximum outstanding short-term borrowings at any month end   79,000    36,000    15,000 
Average outstanding short-term borrowings   39,802    13,463    4,344 
Approximate average rate paid on short-term borrowings   0.49%   0.27%   0.28%

 

The Bank’s fixed-rate debt generally consists of advances with monthly interest payments and principal due at maturity.

 

The Bank’s fixed-rate convertible long-term debt is callable by the issuer, after an initial period ranging from six months to five years. The instruments are callable at the end of the initial period. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, all fixed-rate convertible debt has passed its call date. All advances have a prepayment penalty, determined based upon prevailing interest rates.

 

Variable convertible advances have an initial variable rate based on a discount to LIBOR. Variable convertible debt is scheduled to mature in 2020. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, all variable convertible debt has passed its call date and is fixed at 4.0%.

 

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During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Bank paid off $5.0 million of maturing long-term debt and added one $15.0 million fixed-rate advances maturing in 2018 at 0.95%. During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Bank paid off $19.0 million of maturing long-term debt. There were no long-term advances added during the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, $65.6 million or 100% and $55.6 million or 100%, respectively, of the Bank’s long-term debt was fixed for rate and term, as the conversion optionality of the advances have either been exercised or expired. The contractual maturities of long-term debt were as follows at December 31, 2016 and 2015:

 

   December 31, 2016 
   Fixed-   Fixed-Rate   Variable     
(dollars in thousands)  Rate   Convertible   Convertible   Total 
                 
Due in 2017  $20,000   $-   $-   $20,000 
Due in 2018   15,000    10,000    -    25,000 
Due in 2019   -    -    -    - 
Due in 2020   -    -    10,000    10,000 
Due in 2021   -    -    -    - 
Thereafter   10,559    -    -    10,559 
   $45,559   $10,000   $10,000   $65,559 

 

   December 31, 2015 
   Fixed-   Fixed-Rate   Variable     
(dollars in thousands)  Rate   Convertible   Convertible   Total 
                 
Due in 2016  $5,000   $-   $-   $5,000 
Due in 2017   20,000    -    -    20,000 
Due in 2018   -    10,000    -    10,000 
Due in 2019   -    -    -    - 
Due in 2020   -    -    10,000    10,000 
Thereafter   10,617    -    -    10,617 
   $35,617   $10,000   $10,000   $55,617 

 

The Bank also has daily advances outstanding and short-term advances with terms of less than one year, which are classified as short-term borrowings. Daily advances are repayable at the Bank’s option at any time and are re-priced daily. Daily advances were $19.0 million and $7.0 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The Bank had short-term advances of $60.0 million and $29.0 million, respectively, at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

Under the terms of an Agreement for Advances and Security Agreement with Blanket Floating Lien (the “Agreement”), the Bank maintains collateral with the FHLB consisting of one-to four-family residential first mortgage loans, second mortgage loans, commercial real estate and securities. The Agreement limits total advances to 30% of assets, which were $399.6 million and $332.8 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

At December 31, 2016, $521.3 million of loans and securities were pledged or in safekeeping at the FHLB. Loans and securities are subject to collateral eligibility rules and are adjusted for market value and collateral value factors to arrive at lendable collateral values. At December 31, 2016, FHLB lendable collateral was valued at $405.7 million. At December 31, 2016, the Bank had total lendable pledged collateral at the FHLB of $275.1 million of which $130.6 million was available to borrow in addition to outstanding advances of $144.6 million. Unpledged lendable collateral was $130.5 million, bringing total available borrowing capacity to $261.1 million at December 31, 2016.

 

At December 31, 2015, $365.4 million of loans and securities were pledged or in safekeeping at the FHLB. Loans and securities are subject to collateral eligibility rules and are adjusted for market value and collateral value factors to arrive at lendable collateral values. At December 31, 2015, FHLB lendable collateral was valued at $277.2 million. At December 31, 2015, the Bank had total lendable pledged collateral at the FHLB of $165.8 million of which $74.2 million was available to borrow in addition to outstanding advances of $91.6 million. Unpledged lendable collateral was $111.4 million, bringing total available borrowing capacity to $185.6 million at December 31, 2015.

 

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Additionally, the Bank has established a short-term credit facility with the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond under its Borrower in Custody program. The Bank had segregated collateral sufficient to draw $8.6 million and $7.2 million under this agreement at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. In addition, the Bank has established short-term credit facilities with other commercial banks totaling $12.0 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015. No amounts were outstanding under the Borrower in Custody or commercial lines at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

NOTE 12 - INCOME TAXES

Allocation of federal and state income taxes between current and deferred portions is as follows:

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Current               
Federal  $3,675   $3,255   $2,005 
State   1,296    1,128    699 
    4,971    4,383    2,704 
                
Deferred               
Federal   (460)   (643)   926 
State   (95)   (107)   146 
    (555)   (750)   1,072 
Income Tax Expense  $4,416   $3,633   $3,776 

 

The reasons for the differences between the statutory federal income tax rate and the effective tax rates are summarized as follows:

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
   Amount   Percent of
Pre-Tax
Income
   Amount   Percent of
Pre-Tax
Income
   Amount   Percent of
Pre-Tax
Income
 
Expected income tax expense at federal tax rate  $3,994    34.00%  $3,392    34.00%  $3,490    34.00%
State taxes net of federal benefit   796    6.78%   647    6.49%   604    5.88%
Nondeductible expenses   37    0.31%   40    0.40%   39    0.38%
Nontaxable income   (375)   (3.19)%   (398)   (3.99)%   (345)   (3.36)%
Other   (36)   (0.31)%   (48)   (0.48)%   (12)   (0.12)%
                               
   $4,416    37.59%  $3,633    36.42%  $3,776    36.78%

 

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The net deferred tax assets in the accompanying balance sheets include the following components:

 

   December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015 
Deferred tax assets          
Loss on sale of premises and equipment  $-   $168 
Allowance for loan losses   3,890    3,369 
Deferred compensation   2,520    2,332 
OREO valuation allowance & expenses   413    507 
Unrealized loss on investment securities   605    163 
Other   509    442 
    7,937    6,981 
Deferred tax liabilities          
FHLB stock dividends   156    156 
Depreciation   15    56 
    171    212 
           
Net Deferred Tax Assets  $7,766   $6,769 

 

Retained earnings at December 31, 2016 and 2015 included approximately $1.2 million of bad debt deductions allowed for federal income tax purposes (the “base year tax reserve”) for which no deferred income tax has been recognized. If, in the future, this portion of retained earnings is used for any purpose other than to absorb bad debt losses, it would create income for tax purposes only and income taxes would be imposed at the then prevailing rates. The unrecorded income tax liability on the above amount was approximately $463,000 at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

The Company does not have uncertain tax positions that are deemed material and did not recognize any adjustments for unrecognized tax benefits. The Company’s policy is to recognize interest and penalties on income taxes as a component of tax expense. The Company is no longer subject to U.S. Federal tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2013.

 

NOTE 13 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

The Bank is party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments are commitments to extend credit. These instruments may, but do not necessarily, involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized on the balance sheets. The Bank’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. The Bank uses the same credit policies in making commitments as it does for on-balance-sheet loans receivable.

 

As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank had outstanding loan commitments of approximately $67.0 million and $73.5 million, respectively.

 

Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the Bank to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. These guarantees are issued primarily to support construction borrowing arrangements. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers. The Bank holds cash or a secured interest in real estate as collateral to support those commitments for which collateral is deemed necessary. Standby letters of credit outstanding amounted to $17.7 million and $21.4 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. In addition to the commitments noted above, customers had approximately $135.3 million and $128.8 million available under lines of credit at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

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NOTE 14 - STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

The Company has stock-based incentive arrangements to attract and retain key personnel. In May 2015, the 2015 Equity Compensation Plan (the “2015 plan”) was approved by shareholders, which authorizes the issuance of restricted stock, stock appreciation rights, stock units and stock options to the Board of Directors and key employees. Compensation expense for service-based awards is recognized over the vesting period. Performance-based awards are recognized based on a vesting schedule and the probability of achieving goals specified at the time of the grant. The 2015 plan replaced the 2005 Equity Compensation Plan.

 

Stock-based compensation expense totaled $489,000, $319,000 and $182,000 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, which consisted of grants of restricted stock and restricted stock units.

 

All outstanding options are fully vested and the Company has not granted any stock options since 2007. All outstanding options as of December 31, 2016 expire on July 17, 2017. The fair value of the Company’s outstanding employee stock options is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The Company estimates expected market price volatility and expected term of the options based on historical data and other factors.

 

The exercise price for options granted is set at the discretion of the committee administering the Plan, but is not less than the market value of the shares as of the date of grant. An option’s maximum term is 10 years and the options vest at the discretion of the committee.

 

The following tables below summarize outstanding and exercisable options at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

       Weighted       Weighted-Average 
       Average   Aggregate   Contractual Life 
       Exercise   Intrinsic   Remaining In 
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)  Shares   Price   Value   Years 
                 
Outstanding at January 1, 2016   21,211   $27.70   $-      
Forfeited   (6,130)   27.70    -      
                     
Outstanding at December 31, 2016   15,081   $27.70   $20    0.5 
                     
Exercisable at December 31, 2016   15,081   $27.70   $20    0.5 

 

       Weighted       Weighted-Average 
       Average   Aggregate   Contractual Life 
       Exercise   Intrinsic   Remaining In 
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)  Shares   Price   Value   Years 
                 
Outstanding at January 1, 2015   87,436   $23.60   $-      
Expired   (66,225)   22.29           
                     
Outstanding at December 31, 2015   21,211   $27.70   $-    1.5 
                     
Exercisable at December 31, 2015   21,211   $27.70   $-    1.5 

 

Options outstanding are all currently exercisable and are summarized as follows:

 

Shares Outstanding   Weighted Average  Weighted Average 
December 31, 2016   Remaining Contractual Life  Exercise Price 
 15,081   less than 1 year  $27.70 

 

The aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding stock options and exercisable stock options was $20,000 and $0, respectively, at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Aggregate intrinsic value represents the difference between the Company’s closing stock price on the last trading day of the period, which was $29.00 and $20.96 per share at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and the exercise price multiplied by the number of options outstanding. As of December 31, 2015, all options outstanding were anti-dilutive.

 

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The Company has outstanding restricted stock in accordance with the Plan. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, unrecognized stock compensation expense was $810,000 and $735,000, respectively. The following tables summarize the unvested restricted stock awards outstanding at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

   Restricted Stock 
   Number of Shares   Weighted
 Average Grant
Date Fair Value
 
         
Nonvested at January 1, 2016   37,048   $19.83 
Granted   27,403    21.00 
Vested   (15,912)   20.09 
Cancelled   (658)   20.31 
           
Nonvested at December 31, 2016   47,881   $20.41 

 

   Restricted Stock 
   Number of Shares   Weighted
 Average Grant
Date Fair Value
 
         
Nonvested at January 1, 2015   29,472   $20.83 
Granted   28,040    18.63 
Vested   (20,464)   19.62 
           
Nonvested at December 31, 2015   37,048   $19.83 

 

NOTE 15 - EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

The Company has an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) that covers substantially all its employees. Employees qualify to participate after one year of service and vest in allocated shares after three years of service. The ESOP acquires stock of The Community Financial Corporation by purchasing shares. Dividends on ESOP shares are recorded as a reduction of retained earnings. Contributions are made at the discretion of the Board of Directors. ESOP contributions recognized for the years ended 2016, 2015 and 2014 totaled $99,000, $129,000 and $141,000, respectively. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the ESOP held 221,106 and 215,419 allocated shares and 9,562 and 18,444 unallocated shares. The approximate market values of the shares were $6.7 million and $4.9 million, respectively as of December 31, 2016 and 2015. The estimated value was determined using the Company’s closing stock price of $29.00 and $20.96 per share as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

The ESOP has promissory notes with the Company of $169,000 and $316,000 at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The promissory notes were originated for the purchase of TCFC common stock for the benefit of the participants in the Plan. Loan terms are at prime rate plus one-percentage point and amortize over seven (7) years. As principal is repaid, common shares are allocated to participants based on the participant account allocation rules described in the Plan. The Bank is a guarantor of the ESOP debt with the Company.

 

The Company also has a 401(k) plan. The Company matches a portion of the employee contributions. This ratio is determined annually by the Board of Directors. In 2016, 2015 and 2014, the Company matched one-half of the first 8% of the employee’s contribution. Employees who have completed six months of service are covered under this defined contribution plan. Employee’s vest in the Company’s matching contributions after three years of service. Contributions are determined at the discretion of the Board of Directors. For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, the expense recorded for this plan totaled $346,000, $332,000 and $324,000, respectively.

 

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The Company has a separate nonqualified retirement plan for non-employee directors. Directors are eligible for a maximum benefit of $3,500 a year for ten years following retirement from the Board of Community Bank of the Chesapeake. The maximum benefit is earned at 15 years of service as a non-employee director. Full vesting occurs after two years of service. Expense recorded for this plan was $20,000, $22,000 and $21,000 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

In addition, the Company has established individual supplemental retirement plans and life insurance benefits for certain key executives and officers of the Bank. The retirement plans provide retirement income payments for 15 years from the date of the employee’s expected retirement at age 65. The retirement benefit amount for each agreement is set at the discretion of the Board of Directors and vests from the date of the agreement until the expected retirement date. Expense recorded for the plans totaled $525,000, $519,000 and $441,000 for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

NOTE 16 - GUARANTEED PREFERRED BENEFICIAL INTEREST IN JUNIOR SUBORDINATED DEBENTURES (“TRUPs”)

On June 15, 2005, Tri-County Capital Trust II (“Capital Trust II”), a Delaware business trust formed, funded and wholly owned by the Company, issued $5.0 million of variable-rate capital securities in a private pooled transaction. The variable rate is based on the 90-day LIBOR rate plus 1.70%. The Trust used the proceeds from this issuance, along with the $155,000 for Capital Trust II’s common securities, to purchase $5.2 million of the Company’s junior subordinated debentures. The interest rate on the debentures and the trust preferred securities is variable and adjusts quarterly. These capital securities qualify as Tier I capital and are presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as “Guaranteed Preferred Beneficial Interests in Junior Subordinated Debentures.” Both the capital securities of Capital Trust II and the junior subordinated debentures are scheduled to mature on June 15, 2035, unless called by the Company.

 

On July 22, 2004, Tri-County Capital Trust I (“Capital Trust I”), a Delaware business trust formed, funded and wholly owned by the Company, issued $7.0 million of variable-rate capital securities in a private pooled transaction. The variable rate is based on the 90-day LIBOR rate plus 2.60%. The Trust used the proceeds from this issuance, along with the Company’s $217,000 capital contribution for Capital Trust I’s common securities, to purchase $7.2 million of the Company’s junior subordinated debentures. The interest rate on the debentures and the trust preferred securities is variable and adjusts quarterly. These debentures qualify as Tier I capital and are presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as “Guaranteed Preferred Beneficial Interests in Junior Subordinated Debentures.” Both the capital securities of Capital Trust I and the junior subordinated debentures are scheduled to mature on July 22, 2034, unless called by the Company.

 

NOTE 17 - SUBORDINATED NOTES

On February 6, 2015 the Company issued $23.0 million of unsecured 6.25% fixed to floating rate subordinated notes due February 15, 2025 (“subordinated notes”). On February 13, 2015, the Company used proceeds of the offering to redeem all $20 million of the Company’s outstanding preferred stock issued under the Small Business Lending Fund (“SBLF”) program. The subordinated notes qualify as Tier 2 regulatory capital and replaced SBLF Tier 1 capital. The subordinated notes are not listed on any securities exchange or included in any automated dealer quotation system and there is no market for the notes. The notes are unsecured obligations and are subordinated in right of payment to all existing and future senior debt, whether secured or unsecured. The notes are not guaranteed obligations of any of the Company’s subsidiaries.

 

Interest will accrue at a fixed per annum rate of 6.25% from and including the issue date to but excluding February 15, 2020. From and including February 15, 2020 to but excluding the maturity date interest will accrue at a floating rate equal to the three-month LIBOR plus 479 basis points. Interest is payable on the notes on February 15 and August 15 of each year, commencing August 15, 2015, through February 15, 2020, and thereafter February 15, May 15, August 15 and November 15 of each year through the maturity date or earlier redemption date.

 

The subordinated notes may be redeemed in whole or in part on February 15, 2020 or on any scheduled interest payment date thereafter and upon the occurrence of certain special events. The redemption price is equal to 100% of the principal amount of the subordinated notes to be redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption. Any partial redemption will be made pro rata among all holders of the subordinated notes. The subordinated notes are not subject to repayment at the option of the holders. The subordinated notes may be redeemed at any time, if (1) a change or prospective change in law occurs that could prevent the Company from deducting interest payable on the notes for U.S. federal income tax purposes, (2) a subsequent event occurs that precludes the notes from being recognized as Tier 2 Capital for regulatory capital purposes, or (3) the Company is required to register as an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

 

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NOTE 18 - REGULATORY CAPITAL

As of December 31, 2015, the Bank was a member of the Federal Reserve System and its primary federal regulator was

the Federal Reserve Board. On April 18, 2016, Community Bank of the Chesapeake, cancelled its stock in the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. This terminated its status as a member of the Federal Reserve System. As of that date, the Bank’s primary regulator became the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) and is subject to regulation, supervision and regular examination by the Maryland Commissioner of Financial Regulation (the “Commissioner”) and the FDIC.

 

The Company continues to be subject to regulation, examination and supervision by the Federal Reserve Board under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the “BHCA”), and the regulations of the Federal Reserve Board.

 

On January 1, 2015, the Company and Bank became subject to the new Basel III Capital Rules with full compliance with all of the final rule's requirements phased in over a multi-year schedule, to be fully phased-in by January 1, 2019. In July 2013, the final rules were published (the “Basel III Capital Rules”) establishing a new comprehensive capital framework for U.S. banking organizations. The rules implement the Basel Committee’s December 2010 framework known as “Basel III” for strengthening international capital standards as well as certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act. The Basel III Capital Rules substantially revise the risk-based capital requirements applicable to bank holding companies and depository institutions compared to the previous U.S. risk-based capital rules. The Basel III Capital Rules define the components of capital and address other issues affecting the numerator in banking institutions’ regulatory capital ratios. The Basel III Capital Rules also address risk weights and other issues affecting the denominator in banking institutions’ regulatory capital ratios and replace the existing risk-weighting approach with a more risk-sensitive approach. The Basel III Capital Rules also implement the requirements of Section 939A of the Dodd-Frank Act to remove references to credit ratings from the federal banking agencies’ rules.

 

The rules include a new common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets minimum ratio of 4.5%, raise the minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets from 4.0% to 6.0%, require a minimum ratio (“Min. Ratio”) of Total Capital to risk-weighted assets of 8.0%, and require a minimum Tier 1 leverage ratio of 4.0%. A new capital conservation buffer (“CCB”) is also established above the regulatory minimum capital requirements. This capital conservation buffer began its phase-in period beginning January 1, 2016 at 0.625% of risk-weighted assets and will increase each subsequent year by an additional 0.625% until reaching its final level of 2.5% on January 1, 2019. Strict eligibility criteria for regulatory capital instruments were also implemented under the final rules. The final rules also revise the definition and calculation of Tier 1 capital, Total Capital, and risk-weighted assets.

 

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As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company and Bank were well-capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action under the new Basel III Capital Rules. Management believes, as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, that the Company and the Bank met all capital adequacy requirements to which they were subject. The Company’s and the Bank’s actual regulatory capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table.

 

Regulatory Capital and Ratios  The Company   The Bank 
(dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015   December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015 
                 
Common Equity  $104,426   $99,783   $136,109   $132,571 
Preferred Stock -SBLF   -    -    -    - 
Total Stockholders' Equity   104,426    99,783    136,109    132,571 
AOCI Losses   928    251    928    251 
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital   105,354    100,034    137,037    132,822 
TRUPs   12,000    12,000    -    - 
Tier 1 Capital   117,354    112,034    137,037    132,822 
Allowable Reserve for Credit Losses and Other Tier 2 Adjustments   9,860    8,540    9,860    8,540 
Subordinated Notes   23,000    23,000    -    - 
Tier 2 Capital  $150,214   $143,574   $146,897   $141,362 
                     
Risk-Weighted Assets ("RWA")  $1,104,505   $984,614   $1,102,116   $982,347 
                     
Average Assets ("AA")  $1,300,445   $1,118,843   $1,298,145   $1,116,576 

 

   2019 Regulatory
 Min. Ratio + CCB (1)
             
Common Tier 1 Capital to RWA (2)   7.00%   9.54%   10.16%   12.43%   13.52%
Tier 1 Capital to RWA   8.50    10.62    11.38    12.43    13.52 
Tier 2 Capital to RWA   10.50    13.60    14.58    13.33    14.39 
Tier 1 Capital to AA (Leverage)   n/a    9.02    10.01    10.56    11.90 

 

(1) These are the fully phased-in ratios as of January 1, 2019 that include the minimum capital ratio ("Min. Ratio") + the capital conservation buffer ("CCB"). The phase-in period is more fully described in the footnote above.

 

(2) The Common Tier 1 ratio became effective for regulatory reporting purposes when the Company and the Bank became subject to the new Basel III Capital Rules during the three months ended March 31, 2015.

 

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NOTE 19 - FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

The Company adopted FASB ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements” and FASB ASC Topic 825, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities”, which provides a framework for measuring and disclosing fair value under generally accepted accounting principles. FASB ASC Topic 820 requires disclosures about the fair value of assets and liabilities recognized in the balance sheet in periods subsequent to initial recognition, whether the measurements are made on a recurring basis (for example, available for sale investment securities) or on a nonrecurring basis (for example, impaired loans).

 

FASB ASC Topic 820 defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. FASB ASC Topic 820 also establishes a fair value hierarchy, which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.

 

The Company utilizes fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and to determine fair value disclosures. Securities available for sale are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. Additionally, from time to time, the Company may be required to record at fair value other assets on a nonrecurring basis such as loans held for investment and certain other assets. These nonrecurring fair value adjustments typically involve application of lower of cost or market accounting or write-downs of individual assets.

 

Under FASB ASC Topic 820, the Company groups assets and liabilities at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine the fair value. These hierarchy levels are:

 

Level 1 inputs - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity has the ability to access at the measurement date.

 

Level 2 inputs - Inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These might include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, such as interest rates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals.

 

Level 3 inputs - Unobservable inputs for determining the fair values of assets or liabilities that reflect an entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the assets or liabilities.

 

Transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy are recognized on the actual date of the event or circumstances that caused the transfer, which generally coincides with the Company’s quarterly valuation process. Transfers in and out of level 3 during a quarter are shown in tabular form. There were no transfers between Level 1, 2 or 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The Company changed its presentation during the year ended December 31, 2016, for loans and OREO from Level 2 to Level 3. No changes were made to the Company’s valuation methodologies as a result of these changes. Comparative financial information was reclassified to conform to the classification presented in 2016.

 

Following is a description of valuation methodologies used for assets and liabilities recorded at fair value:

 

Securities Available for Sale

Investment securities available for sale are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. Standard inputs include quoted prices, if available. If quoted prices are not available, fair values are measured using independent pricing models or other model-based valuation techniques such as the present value of future cash flows, adjusted for the security’s credit rating, prepayment assumptions and other factors such as credit loss assumptions. Level 1 securities include those traded on an active exchange, such as the New York Stock Exchange, Treasury securities that are traded by dealers or brokers in active over-the-counter markets and money market funds. Level 2 securities include mortgage-backed securities issued by government sponsored entities (“GSEs”), municipal bonds and corporate debt securities. Securities classified as Level 3 include asset-backed securities in less liquid markets.

 

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Loans Receivable

The Company does not record loans at fair value on a recurring basis, however, from time to time, a loan is considered impaired and an allowance for loan loss is established. Loans for which it is probable that payment of interest and principal will not be made in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan are considered impaired. Management estimates the fair value of impaired loans using one of several methods, including the collateral value, market value of similar debt, enterprise value, liquidation value and discounted cash flows. Impaired loans not requiring a specific allowance represent loans for which the fair value of expected repayments or collateral exceed the recorded investment in such loans. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, substantially all of the impaired loans were evaluated based upon the fair value of the collateral.

 

In accordance with FASB ASC 820, impaired loans where an allowance is established based on the fair value of collateral (loans with impairment) require classification in the fair value hierarchy. When the fair value of the collateral is based on an observable market price (e.g., contracted sales price), the Company records the loan as nonrecurring Level 2. When the fair value of the impaired loan is derived from an appraisal, the Company records the loan as nonrecurring Level 3. Fair value is re-assessed at least quarterly or more frequently when circumstances occur that indicate a change in the fair value. The fair values of impaired loans that are not measured based on collateral values are measured using discounted cash flows and considered to be Level 3 inputs.

 

Premises and Equipment Held For Sale

Premises and equipment are adjusted to fair value upon transfer of the assets to premises and equipment held for sale. Subsequently, premises and equipment held for sale are carried at the lower of carrying value or fair value. Fair value is based upon independent market prices, appraised value of the collateral or management’s estimation of the value of the collateral. When the fair value of the collateral is based on an observable market price (e.g., contracted sales price), the Company records the asset as nonrecurring Level 2. When the fair value of premises and equipment is derived from an appraisal or a cash flow analysis, the Company records the asset at nonrecurring Level 3.

 

Other Real Estate Owned (“OREO”)

OREO is adjusted for fair value upon transfer of the loans to foreclosed assets. Subsequently, OREO is carried at the lower of carrying value and fair value. Fair value is based upon independent market prices, appraised value of the collateral or management’s estimation of the value of the collateral. When the fair value of the collateral is based on an observable market price (e.g., contracted sales price), the Company records the foreclosed asset as nonrecurring Level 2. When the fair value is derived from an appraisal, the Company records the foreclosed asset at nonrecurring Level 3.

 

Assets and Liabilities Recorded at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The tables below present the recorded amount of assets as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 measured at fair value on a recurring basis.

 

(dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2016 
Description of Asset  Fair Value   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3 
Available for sale securities                    
Asset-backed securities issued by GSEs and U.S. Agencies                    
CMOs  $34,228   $-   $34,228   $- 
MBS   4,183    -    4,183    - 
U.S. Agency   10,172    -    10,172    - 
Corporate equity securities   37    -    37    - 
Bond mutual funds   4,413    -    4,413    - 
Total available for sale securities  $53,033   $-   $53,033   $- 

 

122 

 

 

(dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2015 
Description of Asset  Fair Value   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3 
Available for sale securities                    
Asset-backed securities issued by GSEs                    
CMOs  $30,664   $-   $30,664   $- 
MBS   26    -    26    - 
Corporate equity securities   39    -    39    - 
Bond mutual funds   4,387    -    4,387    - 
Total available for sale securities  $35,116   $-   $35,116   $- 

 

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

The Company may be required from time to time to measure certain assets at fair value on a nonrecurring basis in accordance with U.S. GAAP. These include assets that are measured at the lower of cost or market that were recognized at fair value below cost at the end of the period. Assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 are included in the tables below.

 

(dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2016 
Description of Asset  Fair Value   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3 
Loans with impairment                    
Commercial real estate  $6,275   $-   $-   $6,275 
Residential first mortgages   468    -    -    468 
Residential rentals   142    -    -    142 
Construction and land development   673    -    -    673 
Commercial loans   77    -    -    77 
Total loans with impairment  $7,635   $-   $-   $7,635 
Premises and equipment held for sale  $345   $-   $345   $- 
Other real estate owned  $7,763   $-   $-   $7,763 

 

(dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2015 
Description of Asset  Fair Value   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3 
Loans with impairment                    
Commercial real estate  $1,765   $-   $-   $1,765 
Residential first mortgages   469    -    -    469 
Residential rentals   141    -    -    141 
Construction and land development   33    -    -    33 
Commercial loans   50    -    -    50 
Total loans with impairment  $2,458   $-   $-   $2,458 
Premises and equipment held for sale  $2,000   $-   $2,000   $- 
Other real estate owned  $9,449   $-   $-   $9,449 

 

Loans with impairment have unpaid principal balances of $8.9 million and $4.0 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and include impaired loans with a specific allowance.

 

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The following tables provide information describing the unobservable inputs used in Level 3 fair value measurements.

 

December 31, 2016

(dollars in thousands)

 

Description of Asset  Fair Value   Valuation Technique  Unobservable Inputs 

Range
(Weighted Average)

              
Loans with impairment  $7,635   Third party appraisals and in-house real estate evaluations of fair value  Management discount for property type and current market conditions  0%-50% (10%)
               
Other real estate owned  $7,763   Third party appraisals and in-house real estate evaluations of fair value  Management discount for property type and current market conditions  0%-50% (15%)

 

December 31, 2015

(dollars in thousands)

 

Description of Asset  Fair Value   Valuation Technique  Unobservable Inputs 

Range

(Weighted Average)

              
Loans with impairment  $2,458   Third party appraisals and in-house real estate evaluations of fair value  Management discount for property type and current market conditions  0%-50% (10%)
               
Other real estate owned  $9,449   Third party appraisals and in-house real estate evaluations of fair value  Management discount for property type and current market conditions  0%-50% (15%)

 

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NOTE 20 - FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The estimated fair value amounts have been determined by the Company using available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies. However, considerable judgment is required to interpret market data to develop the estimates of fair value. Accordingly, the estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts the Company could realize in a current market exchange. The use of different market assumptions and/or estimation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts. Therefore, any aggregate unrealized gains or losses should not be interpreted as a forecast of future earnings or cash flows. Furthermore, the fair values disclosed should not be interpreted as the aggregate current value of the Company.

 

Valuation Methodology

Investment securities - Fair values are based on quoted market prices or dealer quotes. If a quoted market price is not available, fair value is estimated using quoted market prices for similar securities.

 

FHLB and FRB stock – Fair values are at cost, which is the carrying value of the securities.

 

Investment in bank owned life insurance (“BOLI”) – Fair values are at cash surrender value.

 

Loans receivable – The fair values for non-impaired loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, applying interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms and credit quality. Internal prepayment risk models are used to adjust contractual cash flows.

 

Management estimates the fair value of impaired loans using one of several methods, including the collateral value, market value of similar debt, enterprise value, liquidation value and discounted cash flows. After evaluating the underlying collateral, the fair value is determined by allocating specific reserves from the allowance for loan losses to the impaired loans.

 

Loans held for sale – Fair values are derived from secondary market quotations for similar instruments. There were no loans held for sale at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

Deposits - The fair value of checking accounts, saving accounts and money market accounts were the amount payable on demand at the reporting date.

 

Time certificates - The fair value was determined using the discounted cash flow method. The discount rate was equal to the rate currently offered on similar products.

 

Long-term debt and short-term borrowings - These were valued using the discounted cash flow method. The discount rate was equal to the rate currently offered on similar borrowings.

 

Guaranteed preferred beneficial interest in junior subordinated securities (TRUPs) - These were valued using discounted cash flows. The discount rate was equal to the rate currently offered on similar borrowings.

 

Subordinated notes - These were valued using discounted cash flows. The discount rate was equal to the rate currently offered on similar borrowings.

 

Off-balance sheet instruments - The Company charges fees for commitments to extend credit. Interest rates on loans for which these commitments are extended are normally committed for periods of less than one month. Fees charged on standby letters of credit and other financial guarantees are deemed to be immaterial and these guarantees are expected to be settled at face amount or expire unused. It is impractical to assign any fair value to these commitments.

 

125 

 

 

The Company’s estimated fair values of financial instruments are presented in the following tables.

 

December 31, 2016          Fair Value Measurements 
Description of Asset (dollars in thousands)  Carrying
Amount
   Fair Value   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3 
Assets                         
Investment securities - AFS  $53,033   $53,033   $-   $53,033   $- 
Investment securities - HTM   109,247    108,035    850    107,185    - 
FHLB Stock   7,235    7,235    -    7,235    - 
Loans Receivable   1,079,519    1,066,975    -    -    1,066,975 
Investment in BOLI   28,625    28,625    -    28,625    - 
                          
Liabilities                         
Savings, NOW and money market accounts  $606,033   $606,033   $-   $606,033   $- 
Time deposits   432,792    433,242    -    433,242    - 
Long-term debt   65,559    66,302    -    66,302    - 
Short term borrowings   79,000    78,984    -    78,984    - 
TRUPs   12,000    8,100    -    8,100    - 
Subordinated notes   23,000    23,000    -    23,000    - 

 

December 31, 2015          Fair Value Measurements 
Description of Asset (dollars in thousands)  Carrying
Amount
   Fair Value   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3 
Assets                         
Investment securities - AFS  $35,116   $35,116   $-   $35,116   $- 
Investment securities - HTM   109,420    109,309    750    108,559    - 
FHLB and FRB Stock   6,931    6,931    -    6,931    - 
Loans Receivable   909,200    913,506    -    -    913,506 
Investment in BOLI   27,836    27,836    -    27,836    - 
                          
Liabilities                         
Savings, NOW and money market accounts  $531,348   $531,348   $-   $531,348   $- 
Time deposits   375,551    375,376    -    375,376    - 
Long-term debt   55,617    56,987    -    56,987    - 
Short term borrowings   36,000    36,000    -    36,000    - 
TRUPs   12,000    8,400    -    8,400    - 
Subordinated notes   23,000    23,000    -    23,000    - 

 

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company had outstanding loan commitments and standby letters of credit of $67.0 million and $73.5 million, respectively, and $17.7 million and $21.4 million, respectively. Based on the short-term lives of these instruments, the Company does not believe that the fair value of these instruments differs significantly from their carrying values.

 

The fair value estimates presented herein are based on pertinent information available to management as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Although management is not aware of any factors that would significantly affect the estimated fair value amounts, such amounts have not been comprehensively revalued for purposes of these financial statements since that date and, therefore, current estimates of fair value may differ significantly from the amount presented herein.

 

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NOTE 21 - CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – PARENT COMPANY ONLY

 

Balance Sheets

 

   December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015 
Assets          
Cash - noninterest bearing  $2,366   $1,541 
Investment in wholly owned subsidiaries   136,481    132,943 
Other assets   2,017    1,895 
Total Assets  $140,864   $136,379 
           
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity          
Current liabilities  $1,066   $1,224 
Guaranteed preferred beneficial interest in junior subordinated debentures   12,372    12,372 
Subordinated notes - 6.25%   23,000    23,000 
Total Liabilities   36,438    36,596 
           
Stockholders' Equity          
Common stock   46    46 
Additional paid in capital   47,377    46,809 
Retained earnings   58,100    53,495 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (928)   (251)
Unearned ESOP shares   (169)   (316)
Total Stockholders’ Equity   104,426    99,783 
           
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity  $140,864   $136,379 

 

Condensed Statements of Income

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Interest and Dividend Income               
Dividends from subsidiary  $5,500   $2,775   $3,500 
Interest income   19    51    6 
Interest expense   1,795    1,599    312 
Net Interest Income (Expense)   3,724    1,227    3,194 
Miscellaneous expenses   (2,110)   (1,421)   (1,427)
   Income (loss) before income taxes and equity in undistributed net income of subsidiary   1,614    (194)   1,767 
Federal and state income tax benefit   1,321    1,009    589 
Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiary   4,396    5,528    4,134 
Net Income  $7,331   $6,343   $6,490 
Preferred stock dividends   -    23    200 
Net Income Available to Common Shareholders  $7,331   $6,320   $6,290 

 

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Condensed Statements of Cash Flows

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Cash Flows from Operating Activities               
Net income  $7,331   $6,343   $6,490 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities               
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiary   (4,396)   (5,528)   (4,134)
Stock based compensation   489    139    191 
Increase in other assets   (145)   (284)   (259)
Decrease in deferred income tax benefit   55    23    162 
(Decrease) increase in current liabilities   (157)   459    (145)
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities   3,177    1,152    2,305 
                
Cash Flows from Financing Activities               
Dividends paid   (1,814)   (1,916)   (2,055)
Capital from (to) subsidiary   180    (78)   (15)
Proceeds from Subordinated Notes   -    23,000    - 
Redemption of Small Business Lending Fund Preferred Stock   -    (20,000)   - 
Exercise of stock options   -    -    226 
Net change in ESOP loan   147    146    201 
Repurchase of common stock   (865)   (1,827)   - 
Net Cash Used in Financing Activities   (2,352)   (675)   (1,643)
Increase in Cash   825    477    662 
Cash at Beginning of Year   1,541    1,064    402 
Cash at End of Year  $2,366   $1,541   $1,064 

 

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NOTE 22 - QUARTERLY FINANCIAL COMPARISON (Unaudited)

 

   2016 
   Fourth   Third   Second   First 
(dollars in thousands)  Quarter   Quarter   Quarter   Quarter 
                 
Interest and dividend income  $12,584   $12,223   $11,928   $11,312 
Interest expense   2,111    2,079    2,033    1,919 
Net interest income   10,473    10,144    9,895    9,393 
Provision for loan losses   670    698    564    427 
Net interest income after provision   9,803    9,446    9,331    8,966 
                     
Noninterest income   891    842    777    850 
Noninterest expense   7,316    7,311    7,292    7,240 
                     
Income before income taxes   3,378    2,977    2,816    2,576 
Provision for income taxes   1,356    1,014    1,078    968 
Net Income Available to Common Stockholders  $2,022   $1,963   $1,738   $1,608 
                     
Earnings Per Common Share1                    
Basic  $0.44   $0.43   $0.38   $0.35 
Diluted  $0.44   $0.42   $0.38   $0.35 

 

   2015 
   Fourth   Third   Second   First 
(dollars in thousands)  Quarter   Quarter   Quarter   Quarter 
                 
Interest and dividend income  $11,208   $11,002   $10,935   $10,728 
Interest expense   1,860    1,918    1,902    1,665 
Net interest income   9,348    9,084    9,033    9,063 
Provision for loan losses   362    501    392    178 
Net interest income after provision   8,986    8,583    8,641    8,885 
                     
Noninterest income   909    466    962    962 
Noninterest expense   7,556    7,031    6,888    6,943 
                     
Income before income taxes   2,339    2,018    2,715    2,904 
Provision for income taxes   811    735    1,004    1,083 
Net Income (NI)  $1,528   $1,283   $1,711   $1,821 
Preferred stock dividends   -    -    -    23 
NI Available to Common Stockholders  $1,528   $1,283   $1,711   $1,798 
                     
Earnings Per Common Share1                    
Basic  $0.33   $0.28   $0.37   $0.38 
Diluted  $0.33   $0.27   $0.37   $0.38 

 

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   2014 
   Fourth   Third   Second   First 
(dollars in thousands)  Quarter   Quarter   Quarter   Quarter 
                 
Interest and dividend income  $10,663   $10,667   $10,254   $10,175 
Interest expense   1,610    1,663    1,684    1,741 
Net interest income   9,053    9,004    8,570    8,434 
Provision for loan losses   1,502    385    563    203 
Net interest income after provision   7,551    8,619    8,007    8,231 
                     
Noninterest income   1,225    1,118    855    895 
Noninterest expense   6,652    6,485    6,767    6,331 
                     
Income before income taxes   2,124    3,252    2,095    2,795 
Provision for income taxes   579    1,363    760    1,074 
Net Income (NI)  $1,545   $1,889   $1,335   $1,721 
Preferred stock dividends   50    50    50    50 
NI Available to Common Stockholders  $1,495   $1,839   $1,285   $1,671 
                     
Earnings Per Common Share1                    
Basic  $0.32   $0.40   $0.28   $0.36 
Diluted  $0.32   $0.39   $0.28   $0.36 

 

(1) Earnings per share are based upon quarterly results and, when added, may not total the annual earnings per share amounts.

 

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Item 9.  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

 

The Community Financial Corporation’s (the “Company”) independent registered public accounting firm, Stegman & Company, announced that effective June 1, 2016 substantially all directors and employees of Stegman & Company joined Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP. As a result, effective June 1, 2016 Stegman & Company resigned as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm.  The Audit Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors engaged Dixon Hughes Goodman to serve as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm effective June 1, 2016.

 

The reports of Stegman & Company on the audits of the consolidated financial statements of the Company as of and for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, and audit of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, did not contain an adverse opinion or a disclaimer of opinion, and was not qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principles.

 

During the Company’s fiscal years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 and the subsequent interim period through June 1, 2016, there were (i) no disagreements (as such term is used in Item 304(a)(1)(iv) of Regulation S-K) between the Company and Stegman & Company on any matters of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedures, which disagreement(s), if not resolved to the satisfaction of Stegman & Company, would have caused Stegman & Company to make reference to the subject matter of the disagreement(s) in connection with its report on the Company’s financial statements and (ii) no reportable events within the meaning set forth in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K.

 

During the Company’s fiscal years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 and the subsequent interim period through the date of this report, the Company did not consult with Dixon Hughes Goodman regarding any of the matters set forth in Items 304(a)(2)(i) and (ii) of Regulation S-K.

 

Item 9A.  Controls and Procedures

 

(a)Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

The Company’s management, including the Company’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer, have evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s “disclosure controls and procedures,” as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “Exchange Act”). Based upon their evaluation, the principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective for the purpose of ensuring that the information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) (1) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and (2) is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

(b)Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting

 

Management’s annual report on internal control over financial reporting is provided at Item 8 in this 10K.

 

(c)Changes to Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

Except as indicated herein, there were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the three months ended December 31, 2016 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 9B. Other Information

 

Not applicable.

 

PART III

 

Item 10.  Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

 

For information concerning the Company’s directors, the information contained under the section captioned “Items to be voted on by Stockholders- Item  1 – Election of Directors” in the Company’s definitive proxy statement for the Company’s 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Proxy Statement”) is incorporated herein by reference. For information concerning the executive officers of the Company, see “Item 1 – Business – Executive Officers of the Registrant” under Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

For information regarding compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act, the cover page of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the information contained under the section captioned “Other Information Relating to Directors and Executive Officers Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in the Proxy Statement are incorporated herein by reference.

 

For information concerning the Company’s code of ethics, the information contained under the section captioned “Corporate Governance – Code of Ethics” in the Proxy Statement is incorporated by reference. A copy of the code of ethics and business conduct is filed as Exhibit 14 hereto and is available to stockholders within the “Investor Relations” section of the Bank’s website under the tabs “Investor Resources”, “Proxy and Annual Report, Committee Charters and Code of Ethics”, and Code of Ethics.

 

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For information regarding the audit committee and its composition and the audit committee financial expert, the section captioned “Corporate Governance – Committees of the Board of Directors – Audit Committee” in the Proxy Statement is incorporated by reference.

 

Item 11.  Executive Compensation

 

For information regarding executive compensation, the information contained under the sections captioned “Executive Compensation” and “Directors’ Compensation” in the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 12.  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

 

(a) Security Ownership of Certain Owners

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section captioned “Principal Holders of Voting Securities” in the Proxy Statement.

 

(b) Security Ownership of Management

Information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section captioned “Principal Holders of Voting Securities” in the Proxy Statement.

 

(c) Changes in Control

Management of the Company knows of no arrangements, including any pledge by any person of securities of the Company, the operation of which may, at a subsequent date, result in a change in control of the registrant.

 

(d) Equity Compensation Plan Information

 

The Company’s Tri-County 2005 Equity Compensation Plan was terminated in May 2015 and replaced with the the 2015 Equity Compensation Plan (the “2015 Plan”). The 2015 Plan was approved by shareholders, which authorizes the issuance of restricted stock, stock appreciation rights, stock units and stock options to the Board of Directors and key employees. The following table sets forth certain information with respect to the remaining options from the 2005 Equity Compensation Plan as of December 31, 2016.

 

   (a)   (b)   (c ) 
Plan Category  Number of securities to
be issued upon exercise of
outstanding options,
warrants, and rights
   Weighted average exercise
price of outstanding
options, warrants, and
rights
   Number of securities
remaining available for
future issuance under
equity compensation plans
(excluding securities
reflected in column (a)
 
Equity plans approved by security holders   15,081   $27.70    - 

 

 

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Item 13.  Certain Relationships, Related Transactions and Director Independence

 

The information regarding certain relationships and related transactions, the section captioned “Other Information Relating to Directors and Executive Officers – Policies and Procedures for Approval and Related Parties Transactions and Relationships and Transactions with the Company and the Bank” in the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

 

For information regarding director independence, the section captioned “Proposal 1 – Election of Directors” in the Proxy Statement is incorporated by reference.

 

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section captioned “Audit Related Matters – Audit Fees” and “— an Pre-Approval of Services by the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” in the Proxy Statement.

 

PART IV

 

Item 15.  Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

 

(a)  List of Documents Filed as Part of this Report

 

(1)  Financial Statements.  The following consolidated financial statements and notes related thereto are incorporated by reference from Item 8 hereof:

 

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firms  
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015  
Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014  
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014  
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014  
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014  
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements  

 

(2)  Financial Statement Schedules.  All schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission are omitted because of the absence of conditions under which they are required or because the required information is included in the consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto.

 

(3)  Exhibits.  The following is a list of exhibits filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and is also the Exhibit Index.

 

Exhibit
 No
  Description   Incorporated by Reference to
         
3.1   Articles of Incorporation of Tri-County Financial Corporation   Form S-4 (Registration No. 333-31287).
         
3.2   Articles of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Tri-County Financial Corporation   Form 8-K as filed on May 14, 2012.
         
3.3   Articles of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Tri-County Financial Corporation   Form 8-K as filed on August 27, 2010.
         
3.4   Amended and Restated Bylaws of The Community Financial Corporation   Form 8-K as filed on March 25, 2016.
         
4.1   Amended and Restated Articles Supplementary establishing Senior Non-cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series C, of Tri-County Financial Corporation   Form 8-K as filed on September 23, 2011.
         
4.2   Form of Subordinated Indenture between The Community Financial Corporation and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Trustee   Form 8-K as filed on February 4, 2015.
         

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4.3   Form of First Supplemental Indenture between The Community Financial Corporation and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Trustee   Form 8-K as filed on February 4, 2015.
         
4.4   Form of Global Note to represent the 6.25% Fixed to Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2025 (included in Exhibit 4.3)   Form 8-K as filed on February 4, 2015.
         
10.4*   Community Bank of the Chesapeake Executive Incentive Compensation Plan, as amended and restated   Form 8-K as filed on February 10, 2016.
         
10.5*   Community Bank of the Chesapeake Retirement Plan for Directors, as amended and restated   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.6*   Split Dollar Agreements with Michael L. Middleton   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000 as filed on March 30, 2001.
         
10.7*   Split Dollar Agreement with William J. Pasenelli dated April 12, 2001   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001 as filed on April 1, 2002.
         
10.8*   Salary Continuation Agreement with Michael L. Middleton, dated September 6, 2003   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 as filed on March 26, 2004.
         
10.9*   First Amendment to the Salary Continuation Agreement, dated September 6, 2003, with Michael L. Middleton   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 as filed on March 9, 2009.
         
10.10*   Tri-County Financial Corporation 2005 Equity Compensation Plan   Definitive Proxy Statement as filed on April 11, 2005.
         
10.11*   Amendment No. 1 to the Tri-County Financial Corporation 2005 Equity Compensation Plan   Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2007 as filed on November 13, 2007.
         
10.12*   Community Bank of the Chesapeake Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended and restated   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.13*   Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and among Community Bank of Tri-County, William J. Pasenelli and Tri-County Financial Corporation, as guarantor   Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2007 as filed on May 11, 2007.
         
10.14*   First Amendment to the Employment Agreement, dated April 20, 2007, with William J. Pasenelli   Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 as filed on August 14, 2013.
         
10.15*   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement, dated January 1, 2011 and First Amendment to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan agreement, dated January 1, 2011, with William J. Pasenelli   Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 as filed on August 14, 2013.
         
10.16*   Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and among Community Bank of Tri-County, Gregory C. Cockerham and Tri-County Financial Corporation, as guarantor   Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2007 as filed on May 11, 2007.
         
10.17*   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement, dated January 1, 2011 and First Amendment to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan agreement, dated January 1, 2011, with Gregory C. Cockerham   Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 as filed on August 14, 2013.
         
10.18*   Salary Continuation Agreement with Gregory C. Cockerham, dated August 21, 2006   Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2006 as filed on November 14, 2006.
         
10.19*   First Amendment to the Salary Continuation Agreement, dated August 21, 2006, with Gregory C. Cockerham   Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2008 as filed on April 20, 2009.
         

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10.20*   Second Amendment to the Salary Continuation Agreement, dated August 21, 2006, with Gregory C. Cockerham   Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2008 as filed on April 20, 2009.
         
10.21*   Salary Continuation Agreement with William J. Pasenelli, dated August 21, 2006   Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2006 as filed on November 14, 2006.
         
10.22*   First Amendment to the Salary Continuation Agreement, dated August 21, 2006, with William J. Pasenelli   Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2008 as filed on April 20, 2009.
         
10.23*   Second Amendment to the Salary Continuation Agreement, dated August 21, 2006, with William J. Pasenelli   Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2008 as filed on April 20, 2009.
         
10.26*   Form of Letter Agreement between Tri-County Financial Corporation and each of Michael L. Middleton, Gregory C. Cockerham and William J. Pasenelli   Form 8-K as filed on September 23, 2011.
         
10.27*   Salary Continuation Agreement between Gregory C. Cockerham and Community Bank of Tri-County, dated September 6, 2003, as amended on December 22, 2008   Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2008 as filed on April 20, 2009.
         
10.28*   Salary Continuation Agreement between William J. Pasenelli and Community Bank of Tri-County, dated September 6, 2003, as amended on June 11, 2004 and December 22, 2008   Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2008 as filed on April 20, 2009.
         
10.29*   Employment Agreement with Michael L. Middleton dated July 1, 2014   Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2014 as filed on March 17, 2015.
         
10.30*   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan agreement, dated November 1, 2014 with William J. Pasenelli   Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2014 as filed on March 17, 2015.
         
10.31*   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement, dated November 1, 2014 with Gregory C. Cockerham   Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2014 as filed on March 17, 2015.
         
10.32*   The Community Financial Corporation 2015 Equity Compensation Plan   Definitive Proxy Statement as filed on March 25, 2015.
         
10.33*   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement, dated January 1, 2011, with Todd L. Capitani, as amended   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.34*   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement, dated January 1, 2011, with James Burke, as amended   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.35*   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement, dated November 1, 2014, with Todd L. Capitani   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.36*   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement, dated November 1, 2014, with James Burke   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.37*   Split Dollar Agreement with Todd L. Capitani dated March 3, 2011   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.38*   Split Dollar Agreement with James Burke dated March 15, 2011   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.39*   Employment Agreement with Todd L. Capitani dated April 23, 2013   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.40*   Employment Agreement James Burke dated April 20, 2007, as amended on November 24, 2008 and April 23, 2013   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.41*   Salary Continuation Agreement between James M. Burke and Community Bank of Tri-County, dated August 21, 2006, as amended on April 13, 2007 and December 30, 2007   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         

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10.42*   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan agreement, dated January 1, 2011, with Michael L. Middleton   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.43*   Supplemental Life Insurance Agreement between Community Bank of Tri-County and Michael L. Middleton dated January 12, 2004   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.44*   Supplemental Life Insurance Agreement between Community Bank of Tri-County and William J. Pasenelli dated January 12, 2004   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.45*   Split Dollar Agreement with William J. Pasenelli dated March 15, 2011   Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed on March 10, 2016.
         
10.46*   Consulting Agreement, effective July 1, 2016, by and between Community Bank of the Chesapeake and Michael L. Middleton   Form 8-K as filed on July 5, 2016.
         
10.47   Agreement dated March 25, 2016, by and between Community Financial Corporation and Basswood Capital Management, LLC   Form 8-K as filed on March 25, 2016.
         
10.48*   Split Dollar Agreement with Gregory C. Cockerham dated April 5, 2011    
         
10.49*   Supplemental Life Insurance Agreement between Community Bank of Tri-County and Gregory C. Cockerham dated January 12, 2004    
         
10.50*   Employment Agreement with James F. Di Misa dated April 20, 2007, as amended on November 24, 2008 and April 23, 2013    
         
10.51*   Salary Continuation Agreement between James F. Di Misa and Community Bank of Tri-County, dated August 21, 2006, as amended on April 16, 2007 and December 30, 2007    
         
10.52*   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement, dated January 1, 2011, with James F. Di Misa, as amended    
         
10.53*   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement, dated November 1, 2014, with James F. Di Misa    
         
10.54*   Split Dollar Agreement with James F. Di Misa dated March 15, 2011    
         
14.0   Code of Ethics    
         
21.0   List of Subsidiaries  
         
23.1   Consent of Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP    
         
23.2   Consent of Stegman & Company    
         
31.1   Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer    
         
31.2   Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer    
         

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32.0   Section 1350 Certification of Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer    
         
101.0   The following materials from the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Changes In Stockholders’ Equity, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (v) the Notes in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 

 

(*)            Management contract or compensating arrangement.

 

(b) Exhibits.  The exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K are either filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K or incorporated by reference herein.

 

(c) Financial Statements and Schedules Excluded From Annual Report.  There are no other financial statements and financial statement schedules which were excluded from this Annual Report pursuant to Rule 14a-3(b)(1) which are required to be included herein.

 

137 

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

  THE COMMUNITY FINANCIAL CORPORATION
     
Date: March 13, 2017 By: /s/ William J. Pasenelli
    William J. Pasenelli
    President and Chief Executive Officer
    (Duly Authorized Representative)

 

Pursuant to the requirement of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

By: /s/ Michael L. Middleton   By: /s/ William J. Pasenelli
  Michael L. Middleton     William J. Pasenelli
  Director, Executive Chairman     Director, President and Chief Executive Officer
  Date: March 13, 2017     (Principal Executive Officer)
      Date: March 13, 2017
         
By: /s/ Todd L. Capitani   By: /s/ Austin J. Slater, Jr.
  Todd L. Capitani     Austin J. Slater, Jr.
  Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer     Director
  (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)     Date: March 13, 2017
  Date: March 13, 2017    
         
By: /s/Louis P. Jenkins, Jr   By: /s/ Kathryn M. Zabriskie
  Louis P. Jenkins, Jr.     Kathryn M. Zabriskie
  Director     Director
  Date: March 13, 2017     Date: March 13, 2017
         
By: /s/ John K. Parlett, Jr   By: /s/ Joseph V. Stone, Jr.
  John K. Parlett, Jr     Joseph V. Stone, Jr.
  Director     Director
  Date: March 13, 2017     Date: March 13, 2017
         
By: /s/ Mary Todd Peterson   By: /s/ M. Arshed Javaid
  Mary Todd Peterson     M. Arshed Javaid
  Director     Director
  Date: March 13, 2017     Date: March 13, 2017
         
By: /s/ Eric Goldberg      
  Eric Goldberg      
  Director      
  Date: March 13, 2017