Table of Contents

 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
______________________ 
FORM 10-K
xANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2012
OR
¨TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from                     to                     
2014 Commission File Number: 0-25233001-35385
________________________
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP
(Exact name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
Delaware
80-0091851
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)

(IRS Employer
Identification Number)
   
400 Rella Blvd., Montebello, New York
10901
(Address of Principal Executive Office)
(Zip Code)
(845) 369-8040
(Registrant’s Telephone Number including Area Code)
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Class
Name of Each Exchange On Which Registered
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share
New York Stock Exchange
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
____________________________
Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act    YES  ¨ý  NO  ý¨
Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act.    YES  ¨     NO  ý
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 twelve 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  ý    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 (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files)   YES  ý     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 amendments to this Form 10-K.    ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer — See definition of “accelerated and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (check one).
Large Accelerated Filerox

Accelerated Filer
xo
Non-Accelerated Filero 
Smaller Reporting Company
o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).   YES  ¨     NO  ý
The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant, computed by reference to the closing price of the common stock as of March 31, 20122014 was $283,477,866$1,057,670,927

As of December 5, 2012November 25, 2014 there were 83,899,070 outstanding 44,346,087 shares of the Registrant’s common stock.

DOCUMENT INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders (Part III) to be filed within 120 days after the end of the Registrant’s fiscal year ended September 30, 2012.2014.
 


Table of Contents

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP
FORM 10-K TABLE OF CONTENTS
September 30, 20122014
 
PART I  
ITEM 1.
ITEM 1A.
ITEM 1B.
ITEM 2.
ITEM 3.
ITEM 4.
PART II  
ITEM 5.
ITEM 6.
ITEM 7.
ITEM 7A.
ITEM 8.
ITEM 9.
ITEM 9A.
ITEM 9B.
PART III  
ITEM 10.
ITEM 11.
ITEM 12.
ITEM 13.
ITEM 14.
PART IV  
ITEM 15.
SIGNATURES 


Table of Contents




PART I
ITEM 1.Business
Provident New York
The disclosures set forth in this item are qualified by Item 1A. Risk Factors and the section captioned “Forward-Looking Statements” in Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this report and other cautionary statements set forth elsewhere in this report.

Sterling Bancorp
Provident New YorkSterling Bancorp (“Provident Bancorp”Sterling” or the “Company”) is a Delaware corporation that owns all of the outstanding shares of common stock of ProvidentSterling National Bank (the “Bank”)., which is the Company’s principal subsidiary. At September 30, 2012, Provident Bancorp2014, the Company had, on a consolidated basis, $7.3 billion in assets, of $4.0$5.3 billion in deposits, of $3.1 billion and stockholders’ equity of $491.1 million. As of September 30, 2012, Provident Bancorp had 44,173,470$961.1 million and 83,628,267 shares of common stock outstanding.

Provident Bank
Provident Bank, an independent, full-service bank founded in 1888, is headquartered in Montebello, New York and is the principal bank subsidiary of Provident Bancorp. With $4.0 billion in assets and 493 full-time equivalent employees, Provident Bank accounts for substantially all of Provident Bancorp’s consolidated assets and net income. We operate 35 financial centers which serve the greater New York metropolitan area . There are 13 offices located in Rockland County, New York, 12 offices in Orange County, New York, 8 offices in contiguous Sullivan, Ulster, Westchester and Putnam Counties in New York, 1 office in New York City, and 1 office in Bergen County, New Jersey which operate under the name PBNY Bank, a division of Provident Bank, New York. Provident Bank offers a complete line of commercial, business banking (small business), wealth management, and consumer banking products and services.

We also offer deposit services to municipalities located in the State of New York through Provident Bank’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Provident Municipal Bank.

Provest Services Corporation I is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Provident Bank, holding an investment in a limited partnership that operates an assisted-living facility. A percentage of the units in the facility are for low-income individuals. Provest Services Corp. II is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Provident Bank that has engaged a third-party provider to sell annuities, life and health insurance products to Provident Bank’s customers. The activities of these subsidiaries have had an insignificant effect on our consolidated Our financial condition and results of operations to date. Provident REIT, Inc. and WSB Funding are subsidiaries indiscussed herein on a consolidated basis with the form of real estate investment trusts and hold commercial real estate loans. Also, the Bank maintains several corporations which hold foreclosed properties acquired by Provident Bank.

Provident Bank’s website (www.providentbanking.com) contains a direct link to the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), including copies of annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to these filings, as well as ownership reports on Forms 3, 4 and 5 filed by the Company’s directors and executive officers. Copies may also be obtained, without charge, by written request toOn October 31, 2013, Provident New York Bancorp Investor Relations, 400 Rella Boulevard, Montebello, New York 10901, Attention: Donna Peterson, Provident Bank’s website is not part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.(“Legacy Provident”) and the former Sterling Bancorp (“Legacy Sterling”) merged.

Non-Bank Subsidiaries
In addition to Provident Bank, the Company owns Hardenburgh Abstract Company, Inc. (“Hardenburgh”) that was acquired in connection with the acquisitionmerger, the Company completed the following corporate actions:

Legacy Sterling merged with and into Legacy Provident, the accounting acquirer and the surviving entity.
The Company changed its legal entity name to Sterling Bancorp and became a bank holding company and a financial holding company, as defined by the Bank Holding Company Act of Warwick Community Bancorp (“WSB”1956, as amended.
Sterling National Bank, which was owned by Legacy Sterling, merged into Provident Bank, which was owned by Legacy Provident.
The Bank changed its legal entity name to Sterling National Bank.

We refer to the transactions detailed above collectively as the “Merger”.

The Merger was a stock-for-stock transaction valued at $457.8 million based on the closing price of Legacy Provident’s common stock on October 31, 2013. Under the terms of the Merger, each share of Legacy Sterling was converted into the right to receive 1.2625 shares of Legacy Provident’s common stock. Consistent with our strategy of expanding in the greater New York metropolitan region, we believe the Merger has created a larger, more diversified company and accelerated the build-out of our differentiated strategy targeting small-to-middle market commercial clients and consumers. See additional disclosure regarding the Merger in Note 2. “Acquisitions” to the consolidated financial statements.

Pending Acquisition of Hudson Valley Holding Corp.
On November 5, 2014, the Company announced it had entered into a definitive merger agreement with Hudson Valley Holding Corp. (NYSE: HVB) (the “HVB Merger”). In the HVB Merger, which is a stock-for-stock transaction valued at approximately $539 million based on the closing price of Company common stock on November 4, 2014, Hudson Valley Holding Corp. shareholders will receive a fixed ratio of 1.92 shares of Company common stock for each share of Hudson Valley Holding Corp. common stock. Upon closing, the Company’s shareholders will own approximately 69% of stock in the combined company and Hudson Valley Investment Advisors, LLC ("HVIA"), an investment advisory firm that generates investment management fees. Hardenburgh had gross revenue from title insurance policies and abstracts of $1.1 million and net income of $202,000 for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2012. Hardenburgh and Madison Title Holding LLC entered into a joint venture under Provident Bank, creating PB Madison Title Agency, LP, a title insurance agency thatCorp. shareholders will significantly increase our capacity and market coverage.own approximately 31%.

On November 16, 2012,a pro forma combined basis, for the Company sold Hudson Valley Investment Advisors, LLC ("HVIA"), an investment advisory firm that generated $2.4twelve months ended September 30, 2014, the companies had revenue of $363 million in fee income and net income of $372,000 in 2012. The Company has launched an enhanced program to deliver a wide range of superior wealth management products that were previously offered by HVIA.

Provident Risk Management, Inc., a captive insurance company, generated $1.2 million in intercompany revenues and $1.0$22 million in net income forincome. Upon completion of the HVB Merger, the combined company is expected to have approximately $10.7 billion in assets, $6.6 billion in gross loans, and deposits of $8.1 billion. The HVB Merger will further the Company’s strategy of expanding in the greater New York metropolitan region by providing the Company with a significant presence and deposit market share in Westchester County, New York, and will create an opportunity to realize significant operating expense savings. The transaction is expected to be accretive to earnings per share in fiscal year ending September 30, 2012.2015 and 2016.

Provident Municipal Bank
Provident Municipal Bank, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Provident Bank,The transaction is a New York State-chartered commercial bank whichsubject to approval by shareholders from both companies, regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions, and is engagedexpected to close in the businesssecond calendar quarter of accepting deposits from municipalities2015.

Senior Notes Capital Raise
In connection with the Merger, the Company completed the offering of $100 million of its senior notes due 2018 (the “Senior Notes”) on July 2, 2013. The Senior Notes, which bear interest at 5.50% annually, were issued under an indenture dated July 2, 2013 (the “Indenture”) between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee. The Senior Notes were sold in our market area. New York State law requires municipalities located in the State of New York to deposit funds with commercial banks, effectively forbidding these municipalities from depositing funds with savings banks, including federally chartered savings associations, such as Provident Bank.

a private placement

1

Table of Contents




and resold by the initial purchasers to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

The Senior Notes are unsecured obligations of the Company and rank equally with all other unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness, and will be effectively subordinated to any secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the collateral securing such indebtedness, and structurally subordinated to the existing and future indebtedness of the Company’s subsidiaries. Interest on the Senior Notes is payable on January 2 and July 2 and began January 2, 2014. Interest is calculated on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months. The Senior Notes will mature on July 2, 2018.

Acquisition of Gotham Bank of New York
On August 10, 2012, the Company acquired Gotham Bank of New York (“Gotham”), a New York state-chartered banking corporation with approximately $431.4$431.5 million in assets, $205.5 million in loans, and $368.9 million in deposits and one branch location in midtown Manhattan as of the acquisition date.Manhattan. At the closing, Gotham was merged with and into Providentthe Bank, with Providentthe Bank as the surviving entity. The shareholders of Gotham received cash equal to 125% of adjusted tangible net worth, subject to fair value adjustments. The aggregate cash consideration to Gotham shareholders and option holders was approximately $41 million. We believe that Gotham provides us with an established platform in New York City which is additive to our growth strategy and will support the expansion of our franchise in this attractive market.

Common Equity Capital Raise
On August 7, 2012, the Company sold directly to several institutional investors (the “Investors”) an aggregate of 6,258,504 shares of its common stock at a price of $7.35 per share. The Company received net proceeds of approximately $46 million, which were used to fund the acquisition of Gotham and for general corporate purposespurposes.

Forward-Looking StatementsSterling National Bank
From time to timeThe Bank is a growing full-service regional bank founded in 1888. Headquartered in Montebello, New York, the Company has made and may continue to make written or oral forward-looking statements regarding our outlook or expectations for earnings, revenues, expenses, capital levels, asset quality or other future financial or business performance, strategies or expectations, or the impact of legal, regulatory or supervisory matters on our business operations or performance. This Annual Report on Form 10-K also includes forward-looking statements. With respect to all such forward-looking statements, you should review our Risk Factors discussion in Item 1A. and our Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information included in Item 7.

Market Area
Provident Bank specializes in the delivery of serviceservices and solutions to business owners, their families and the consumers in communities within the greater New York City marketplacecommunities we serve through teams of dedicated and experienced relationship managers andmanagers. Sterling National Bank offers a complete line of commercial, business, and consumer banking products and services. Collectively, we now operate 35 full serviceAs of September 30, 2014, the Bank had $7.3 billion in assets, $5.3 billion in deposits and 836 full-time equivalent employees.

Subsidiaries
The Company and the Bank maintain a number of wholly-owned subsidiaries, including a real estate investment trust that holds real estate mortgage loans, several subsidiaries that hold foreclosed properties acquired by the Bank, a Vermont captive insurance company and other subsidiaries that have an immaterial impact on the financial centers which servecondition or results of operations of the greaterCompany.

Additional Information
The Company’s website (www.sterlingbancorp.com) contains a direct link to the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including copies of annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to these filings, registration statements on Form S-4, as well as ownership reports on Forms 3, 4 and 5 filed by the Company’s directors and executive officers. Copies may also be obtained, without charge, by written request to Sterling Bancorp, 400 Rella Boulevard, Montebello, New York metropolitan10901, Attention: Investor Relations. Sterling’s website is not part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Strategy
Through its subsidiary Sterling National Bank, the Company operates as a regional bank providing a broad offering of deposit, lending and wealth management products to commercial, consumer and municipal clients in its market area. There are 13 offices locatedThe Bank seeks to differentiate itself by focusing on the following principles:
Prioritize client relationships over transactions.
Compete on service experience versus price superiority.
Deploy a single point of contact, relationship-based distribution strategy through our commercial banking teams and financial centers.
Focus on specific customer segments and geographic markets.
Maximize efficiency through a technology enabled, low-cost operating platform.
Maintain strong risk management systems.

Our strategic objectives include generating sustainable growth in Rockland County,revenues and earnings by expanding client acquisitions, improving asset quality and increasing operating efficiency. To achieve these goals we are: 1) focusing on high value client segments; 2) expanding our

2

Table of Contents




delivery and distribution channels; 3) creating a high productivity and performance culture; 4) controlling our operating costs; and 5) proactively managing enterprise risk.
We focus on delivering products and services to small and middle market commercial businesses and affluent consumers.  We believe that this is a client segment that is underserved by larger bank competitors in our market area.

The Bank targets the following geographic markets: the New York 12 offices in Orange County,Metro Market, which includes Manhattan and Long Island; and the New York 8 offices in contiguousSuburban Market, which consists of Rockland, Orange, Sullivan, Ulster, Putnam and Westchester and Putnam Countiescounties in New York 1 officeand Bergen County in New York City,Jersey. We believe the Bank operates in an attractive footprint that presents us with significant opportunities to execute our strategy. Based on data from Oxxford Information Technology, we estimate the total number of small and 1 officemiddle market businesses in Bergen County, New Jerseyour footprint exceeds 550 thousand.

We deploy a team-based distribution strategy in which operates underclients are served by a focused and experienced group of relationship managers that are responsible for all aspects of the name PBNY Bank, a divisionclient relationship and delivery of Provident Bank, New York. Provident Bank offers a complete line of commercial, business banking (small business) and consumer bankingour products and services. A significant portion of the Bank’s organic growth in 2014 was driven by the recruitment of new teams. As of September 30, 2014, the Bank had 21 commercial banking teams. We expect to continue to grow deposits and loan balances through the addition of new teams.

Management Strategy
We operate as an regional bankThe Bank focuses on building client relationships that offers a broad range of customer-focused financial services as an alternativeallow us to large regional, multi-state,gather low cost, core deposits and international banks in our market area. Management has invested in the infrastructure and staffing to support our strategy of serving the financial needs of businesses, individuals and municipalities in our market area focusing on core deposit generation, andoriginate high quality loan growth with emphasis on growing commercial loan balances. We believe this provides a favorable platform for long-term sustainable growth. We seek to maintainloans. The Bank maintains a disciplined pricing strategy on deposit generationdeposits that will allowallows us to compete for high quality loans while maintaining an appropriate spread over funding costs. Imperatives for the Company will be to grow revenue and earnings by expanding client acquisitions, continuing to improve credit metrics and significantly improving operating efficiency levels. To achieve these goals we will focus on high value client segments, the expansion of delivery channels and distribution to increase client acquisitions, execute effectively by creating a highly productive performance culture, reduce operating costs, and to proactivly manage enterprise risk. Highlights of management’s business strategy are as follows:

Operating within a defined market. As an regional bank, we emphasize the centralized nature of our decision-making to respond more effectively to the needs of our customers while providing a full range of financial services to the businesses, individuals, and municipalities in our market area. We offer a broad range of financial products to meet the changing needs of the marketplace, including Internet banking, cash management services and, on a selective basis, sweep accounts. In addition, we offer wealth management services to meet the investing needs of individuals, corporations and not-for-profit entities. As a result, we are able to provide, at the local level, the financial services required to meet the needs of the majority of existing and potential customers in our market.

Enhancing Customer Service. We are committed to providing superior customer service as a way to differentiate us from our competition. Our team based approach provides a level of distinctive service across our franchise. Clients are served by a focused group of professionals that provide commercial and consumer solutions to their clients. Additionally as part of our commitment to service, we have been engaged in Sunday banking since 1995. In addition, we offer multiple access channels to our customers, including our branch and ATM network, Internet banking, our Customer Care Telephone Center and our Automated Voice Response

2

Table of Contents

system. We reinforce in our employees a commitment to customer service through extensive training, recognition programs and measurement of service standards.

Growing and maintaining a Diversified Loan Portfolio. We offer a broad range ofdiverse loan products to commercial businesses, real estate owners, real estate developers and individuals. To support this activity,consumers. In 2014, we maintain commercial, consumer and residential loan departments staffed with experienced professionalscontinued to promote the continued growth and prudent management of loan assets. We have experienced consistent and significantemphasize growth in our commercial loan portfolio while continuing to provide our residential mortgage and consumer lending services. Asbalances;  as a result, we believe that we have developed a high quality, diversified loan portfolio with a favorable mix of loan types, maturities and yields. We
The Company augments organic growth with opportunistic acquisitions. Between fiscal 2002 and October 2013, the Company completed seven acquisitions, including: National Bank of Florida in 2002; Ellenville National Bank in 2004; Warwick Community Bancorp in 2005; a branch office of HSBC Bank USA in 2005; Hudson Valley Investment Advisors in 2007; Gotham Bank of New York in August 2012; and Legacy Sterling on October 31, 2013. These acquisitions have currently deemphasized acquisition and development lending for residential housing development of single family homes, as this area has been the most affected by the economy of the region.

Expanding our Banking Franchise. Management intends to continuesupported the expansion of the banking franchiseCompany into attractive markets and diversified businesses. See additional disclosure of our acquisitions in Note 2. “Acquisitions” to increase the number of customers served and products used by businesses and consumers in our market area. Our strategy is to deliver exceptional customer service, which depends on up-to-date technology and multiple access channels, as well as courteous personal contact from a trained and motivated workforce. This approach has resulted in a relatively high level of core deposits, which drives a lower overall cost of funds. Management intends to maintain this strategy, which will require ongoing investment in banking locations and technology to support exceptional service levels for Provident Bank’s customers. Recent expansion efforts have been focused on the greater NYC metro area through the addition of commercial teams. We intend to concentrate on certain segments of the market, in particular focusing on business with revenues up to $100 million, small business with revenues of up to $5 million and financially secure families.consolidated financial statements.

Lending Activities
General. We primarily originate commercial real estate loans, multifamily real estate and commercial business loans. We are de-emphasizingOn November 5, 2014, the Company announced its pending acquisition development and construction loans. We also originate residential mortgage loans in our market area on a fixed-rate and adjustable-rate (“ARM”) basis collateralized by residential real estate, and consumer loans such as home equity lines of credit, homeowner loans and personal loans. We may sell longer-term one- to four-family residential loans and participations in some commercial loans for portfolio management purposes.

Commercial Real Estate Lending. We originate real estate loans secured predominantly by first liens on commercial real estate. The commercial properties are predominantly non-residential properties such as office buildings, shopping centers, retail strip centers, industrial and warehouse properties and, to a lesser extent, more specialized properties such as assisted living and nursing homes, churches, mobile home parks, restaurants and motel/hotels. We may, from time to time, purchase commercial real estate loan participations. We also originate multifamily properties to diversify the portfolio. We target commercial real estate loans with initial principal balances between $1.0 million and $15.0 million. At September 30, 2012, loans secured by commercial real estate totaled $1.1 billion, or 50.6% of our total loan portfolio and consisted of 1,124 loans outstanding. Substantially all of our commercial real estate loans are secured by properties located in our primary market area.

The majority of our commercial real estate loans are written as five-year adjustable-rate or ten-year fixed-rate mortgages and typically have ten year balloon maturities up to ten years. Amortization on these loans is typically based on 25-year payout schedules. Margins generally range from 200 basis points to 300 basis points above a reference index.

In the underwriting of commercial real estate loans, we generally lend up to 75% of the property’s appraised value. Decisions to lend are based on the economic viability of the property and the creditworthiness of the borrower. In evaluating a proposed commercial real estate loan, we primarily emphasize the ratio of the property’s projected net cash flow to the loan’s debt service requirement (generally targeting a minimum ratio of 120%), computed after deduction for a vacancy factor and property expenses we deem appropriate. In addition, a personal guarantee of the loan or a portion thereof is generally required from the principal(s) of the borrower, except for loans secured by multi-family properties. We require title insurance insuring the priority of our lien, fire and extended coverage casualty insurance, and flood insurance, if appropriate, in order to protect our security interest in the underlying property.

Commercial real estate loans typically involve significant loan balances concentrated with single borrowers or groups of related borrowers. In addition, the payment experience on loans secured by income-producing properties typically depends on the successful operation of the related real estate project and thus may be subject to adverse conditions in the real estate market and in the general economy. For commercial real estate loans in which the borrower is a significant tenant, repayment experience also depends on the successful operation of the borrower’s underlying business.

Commercial Business Loans. We make various types of secured and unsecured commercial loans to customers in our market area for the purpose of financing equipment acquisition, expansion, working capital and other general business purposes. The terms of

3

Table of Contents

these loans generally range from less than one year to seven years. The loans are either negotiated on a fixed-rate basis or carry adjustable interest rates indexed to a lending rate that is determined internally, or a short-term market rate index. At September 30, 2012, we had 1,994 commercial business loans outstanding with an aggregate balance of $343.3 million, or 16.2% of our total loan portfolio. As of September 30, 2012, the average commercial business loan balance was approximately $172,000. A determination is made as to the applicant’s ability to repay in accordance with the proposed terms as well as an overall assessment of the risks involved. An evaluation is made of the applicant to determine character and capacity to manage. Personal guarantees of the principals are generally required, except in the case of not-for-profit corporations. In addition to an evaluation of the loan applicant’s financial statements, a determination is made of the probable adequacy of the primary and secondary sources of repayment to be relied upon in the transaction. Credit agency reports of the applicant’s credit history supplement the analysis of the applicant’s creditworthiness. Checking with other banks and trade investigations may also be conducted. Collateral supporting a secured transaction also is analyzed to determine its marketability. For small business loans and lines of credit, generally those not exceeding $250,000, we use a modified credit scoring system that enables us to process the loan requests more quickly and efficiently.

Residential Mortgage Lending. We offer conforming and non-conforming, fixed-rate and adjustable-rate residential mortgage loans with maturities of up to 30 years and maximum loan amounts generally up to $4.0 million that are fully amortizing with monthly or bi-weekly loan payments. This portfolio totaled $350.0 million, or 16.5% of our total loan portfolio at September 30, 2012.

Residential mortgage loans are generally underwritten according to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines for loans they designate as acceptable for purchase. Loans that conform to such guidelines are referred to as “conforming loans.” We generally originate fixed-rate loans in amounts up to the maximum conforming loan limits as established by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which are currently $417,000 for single-family homes or higher in certain areas as determined by the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Private mortgage insurance is generally required for loans with loan-to-value ratios in excess of 80%. In order to reduce exposure to rising interest rates, we sold or securitized a portion of our conforming fixed rate real estate- residential loans originated, totaling $79.1 million and $52.5 million in proceeds for the fiscal years ending September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

We also originate loans above conforming limits, referred to as “jumbo loans,” which have been underwritten to substantially the same credit standards as conforming loans. These loans are generally intended to be held in our loan portfolio. Depending on market interest rates and our capital and liquidity position, we may retain all of our newly originated longer term fixed-rate residential mortgage loans, or from time to time we may decide to sell all or a portion of such loans in the secondary mortgage market to government sponsored entities such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac or other purchasers. Our bi-weekly residential mortgage loans that are retained in our portfolio result in shorter repayment schedules than conventional monthly mortgage loans, and are repaid through an automatic deduction from the borrower’s savings or checking account. We retain the servicing rights on a large majority of loans sold to generate fee income and reinforce our commitment to customer service, although we may also sell non-conforming loans to mortgage banking companies, generally on a servicing-released basis. As of September 30, 2012, loans serviced for others, excluding loan participations, totaled $207.4 million.

We currently offer several ARM loan products secured by residential properties with rates that are fixed for a period ranging from six months to ten years. After the initial term, if the loan is not already refinanced, the interest rate on these loans generally resets every year based upon a contractual spread or margin above the average yield on U.S. Treasury securities, adjusted to a constant maturity of one year, as published weekly by the Federal Reserve Board and subject to certain periodic and lifetime limitations on interest rate changes. Many of the borrowers who select these loans have shorter-term credit needs than those who select long-term, fixed-rate loans. ARM loans generally pose different credit risks than fixed-rate loans primarily because the underlying debt service payments of the borrowers rise as interest rates rise, thereby increasing the potential for default.

We require title insurance on all of our residential mortgage loans, and we also require that borrowers maintain fire and extended coverage or all risk casualty insurance (and, if appropriate, flood insurance) in an amount at least equal to the lesser of the loan balance or the replacement cost of the improvements, but in any event in an amount calculated to avoid the effect of any coinsurance clause. Residential first mortgage loans generally are required to have a mortgage escrow account from which disbursements are made for real estate taxes and for hazard and flood insurance.

Acquisition, Development and Construction Loans. Historically, we originated acquisition, development and construction (“ADC”) loans to builders in our market area. The Company has deemphasized this lending due to the economic slow down and declines in the real estate market. Effective August 2011, our policy is to consider ADC loans only on an exception basis. ADC loans totaled $144.1 million, or 6.8% of our total loan portfolio at September 30, 2012, a decline of $31.9 million, compared to September 30, 2011. ADC loans help finance the purchase of land intended for further development, including single-family houses, multi-family housing, and commercial income properties. In some cases, we may make an acquisition loan before the

4

Table of Contents

borrower has received approval to develop the land as planned. In general, the maximum loan-to-value ratio for a land acquisition loan is 50% of the appraised value of the property, although higher loan-to-value ratios may be allowed for certain borrowers we deem to be lower risk. We also make development loans to builders in our market area to finance improvements to real estate, consisting mainly of single-family subdivisions, typically to finance the cost of utilities, roads, sewers and other development costs. Builders generally rely on the sale of single-family homes to repay development loans, although in some cases the improved building lots may be sold to another builder. The maximum loan amount is generally limited to the cost of the improvements plus limited approval of soft costs. In general, we do not originate loans with interest reserves. A portion of our ADC loans acquired through the purchase of participations do carry interest reserves. The total of these ADC participation loans with interest reserves at September 30, 2012 were $7.6 million. Advances are made in accordance with a schedule reflecting the cost of the improvements.

We also make construction loans to area builders which are not affected by our new policy. In the case of residential subdivisions, these loans finance the cost of completing homes on the improved property. Advances on construction loans are made in accordance with a schedule reflecting the cost of construction. Repayment of construction loans on residential subdivisions is normally expected from the sale of units to individual purchasers except in cases of owner occupied construction loans. Owner occupied commercial construction loans totaled $10.1 million at September 30, 2012. In the case of income-producing property, repayment is usually expected from permanent financing upon completion of construction. We commit to provide the permanent mortgage financing on most of our construction loans on income-producing property. Collateral coverage and risk profile is maintained by restricting the number of model or speculative units in each project.

ADC lending exposes us to greater credit risk than permanent mortgage financing. The repayment of ADC loans depends upon the sale of the property to third parties or the availability of permanent financing upon completion of all improvements. In the event we make an acquisition loan on property that is not yet approved for the planned development, there is the risk that approvals will not be granted or will be delayed. These events may adversely affect the borrower and the collateral value of the property. Development and construction loans also expose us to the risk that improvements will not be completed on time in accordance with specifications and projected costs. In addition, the ultimate sale or rental of the property may not occur as anticipated. In recent years as a result of the economic downturn, most projects have performed behind schedule, requiring the borrowers to carry these projects for a longer period than was originally contemplated when we approved the credit facilities. As a result many of the borrowers have been utilizing other sources to maintain debt service or have been unable to maintain debt service requirements. As of September 30, 2012 $22.6 million of acquisition and development loans are being amortized from outside sources of cash flow.

Consumer Loans. We originate a variety of consumer and other loans, including homeowner loans, home equity lines of credit, new and used automobile loans, and personal unsecured loans, including fixed-rate installment loans and variable lines of credit. As of September 30, 2012, consumer loans totaled $209.6 million, or 9.9% of the total loan portfolio. We offer fixed-rate, fixed-term second mortgage loans, referred to as homeowner loans, and we also offer adjustable-rate home equity lines of credit secured by junior liens on residential properties. As of September 30, 2012, homeowner loans totaled $35.0 million or 1.7% of our total loan portfolio. The disbursed portion of home equity lines of credit totaled $165.2 million, or 7.8% of our total loan portfolio at September 30, 2012, with $110.4 million remaining undisbursed.

Other consumer loans include personal loans including overdraft lines of credit and loans secured by new or used automobiles.

5

Table of Contents


Loan Portfolio Composition. The following table sets forth the composition of our loan portfolio, excluding loans held for sale, by type of loan at the dates indicated.
 September 30,
 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008
 Amount Percent Amount Percent Amount Percent Amount Percent Amount Percent
 (Dollars in thousands)
Real-estate residential mortgage loans$350,022
 16.5% $389,765
 22.9% $434,900
 25.5% $460,728
 27.0% $513,381
 29.6%
Commercial real estate loans1,072,504
 50.6
 703,356
 41.4
 579,232
 34.0
 546,767
 32.1
 554,811
 32.0
Commercial business loans343,307
 16.2
 209,923
 12.3
 217,927
 12.8
 242,629
 14.2
 243,642
 14.1
Acquisition, development & construction144,061
 6.8
 175,931
 10.3
 231,258
 13.6
 201,611
 11.9
 170,979
 9.9
Total commercial loans1,559,872
 73.6
 1,089,210
 64.0
 1,028,417
 60.4
 991,007
 58.2
 969,432
 56.0
Home equity lines of credit165,200
 7.8
 174,521
 10.2
 176,134
 10.4
 180,205
 10.6
 166,491
 9.6
Homeowner loans34,999
 1.7
 40,969
 2.4
 48,941
 2.9
 54,941
 3.2
 58,569
 3.4
Other consumer loans9,379
 0.4
 9,334
 0.5
 13,149
 0.8
 16,376
 1.0
 23,680
 1.4
Total consumer loans209,578
 9.9
 224,824
 13.1
 238,224
 14.1
 251,522
 14.8
 248,740
 14.4
Total loans2,119,472
 100.0% 1,703,799
 100.0% 1,701,541
 100.0% 1,703,257
 100.0% 1,731,553
 100.0%
Allowance for loan losses(28,282)   (27,917)   (30,843)   (30,050)   (23,101)  
Total loans, net$2,091,190
   $1,675,882
   $1,670,698
   $1,673,207
   $1,708,452
  

Loan Portfolio Maturities and Yields. The following table summarizes the scheduled repayments of our loan portfolio at September 30, 2012. Demand loans, loans having no stated repayment schedule or maturity, and overdraft loans are reported as being due in one year or less. Weighted average rates are computed based on the rate of the loan at September 30, 2012.
 Residential Mortgage Commercial Real Estate Commercial Business ADC Consumer Total
 Amount 
Weighted
Average
Rate
 Amount 
Weighted
Average
Rate
 Amount 
Weighted
Average
Rate
 Amount 
Weighted
Average
Rate
 Amount 
Weighted
Average
Rate
 Amount 
Weighted
Average
Rate
 (Dollars in thousands)
Due During the Years
Ending September 30,
                   
  
2013$6,362
 5.17% $64,491
 5.38% $93,987
 4.14% $89,831
 4.50% $4,817
 13.67% $259,488
 4.77%
2014 to 201726,142
 4.78
 439,009
 4.93
 116,924
 4.41
 44,961
 5.05
 11,557
 7.28
 638,593
 4.88
2017 and beyond317,518
 5.26
 569,004
 5.01
 132,396
 4.27
 9,269
 3.34
 193,204
 4.29
 1,221,391
 4.87
Total$350,022
 5.22% $1,072,504
 5.00% $343,307
 4.29% $144,061
 4.60% $209,578
 4.67% $2,119,472
 4.86%

The following table sets forth the scheduled repayments of fixed- and adjustable-rate loans at September 30, 2012 that are contractually due after September 30, 2013.
 Fixed Adjustable Total
 (Dollars in thousands)
Residential mortgage loans$271,716
 $71,944
 $343,660
Commercial real estate loans482,201
 525,812
 1,008,013
Commercial business loans110,891
 138,429
 249,320
Acquisition, development & construction13,309
 40,921
 54,230
Total commercial loans606,401
 705,162
 1,311,563
Consumer loans41,765
 162,996
 204,761
Total loans$919,882
 $940,102
 $1,859,984

Loan Originations, Purchases, Sales and Servicing. While we originate both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate loans, our ability to generate each type of loan depends upon borrower demand, market interest rates, borrower preference for fixed versus adjustable-rate loans, and the interest rates offered on each type of loan by other lenders in our market area. These include competing banks,

6

Table of Contents

savings banks, credit unions, mortgage banking companies, life insurance companies and similar financial services firms. Loan originations are derived from a number of sources, including branch office personnel, commercial banking officers, existing customers, borrowers, builders, attorneys, real estate broker referrals and walk-in customers.

Our loan origination and sales activity may be adversely affected by a rising interest rate environment or period of falling house prices, which typically result in decreased loan demand, while declining interest rates may stimulate increased loan demand. Accordingly, the volume of loan origination, the mix of fixed and adjustable-rate loans, and the profitability of this activity can vary from period to period.

During fiscal year 2012, we did not sell any loans through securitzations. However, we sold $79.1 million as whole loans to Freddie Mac. We are a qualified loan servicer for both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Our policy generally has been to retain the servicing rights for all conforming loans sold. We therefore continue to collect payments on the loans, maintain tax escrows and applicable fire and flood insurance coverage, and supervise foreclosure proceedings, if necessary. We retain a portion of the interest paid by the borrower on the loans as consideration for our servicing activities.

Loan Approval/Authority and Underwriting. The Board of Directors has established the Credit Risk Committee (the “CRC”) to oversee the lending functions of the Bank. The CRC reviews loans approved by the Bank’s Management Credit Committee, oversees the performance of the Bank’s loan portfolio and its various components, assists in the development of strategic initiatives to enhance portfolio performance, and considers matters for approval and recommendation to the Board of Directors.

The Management Credit Committee (the “MCC”) consists of the President and Chief Executive Officer, Chief Risk Officer, Chief Credit Officer, and other senior lending personnel. The MCC is authorized to approve loans within the existing policy limits established by the Board. For loans that are not within policy guidelines but are nonetheless deemed desirable, the MCC may recommend approval to the CRC, which in turn may recommend approval to the Board.

The MCC may also authorize lending authority to individual Bank officers for both single and dual initial approval authority. Other than overdrafts, the only single initial lending authorities are for credit secured small business loans up to $250,000. and up to $500,000 if secured by residential property. Two loan officers with sufficient authority acting together may approve loans up to $2 million.

We have established a risk rating system for our commercial business loans, commercial and multi-family real estate loans, and ADC loans to builders. The risk rating system assesses a variety of factors to rank the risk of default and risk of loss associated with the loan. These ratings are performed by commercial credit personnel who do not have responsibility for loan originations. We determine our maximum loan-to-one-borrower limits based upon the rating of the loan. The large majority of loans fall into four categories. The maximum for the best-rated borrowers is $20 million, $15 million for the next group of borrowers, $12 million for the third group and $6 million for the last group. Sub-limits apply based on reliance on any single property, and for commercial business loans. On occasion, the Board of Directors may approve higher exposure limits for loans to one borrower in an amount not to exceed the legal lending limit of the Bank. The Board may also authorize the Chief Risk Officer, or Management Credit Committee to approve loans for specific borrowers up to a designated Board approved limit in excess of the policy limit, for that borrower.

In connection with our residential and commercial real estate loans, we generally require property appraisals to be performed by independent appraisers who are approved by the Board. Appraisals are then reviewed by the appropriate loan underwriting areas. Under certain conditions, appraisals may not be required for loans under $250,000 or in other limited circumstances. We also require title insurance, hazard insurance and, if indicated, flood insurance on property securing mortgage loans. Title insurance is not required for consumer loans under $100,000, such as home equity lines of credit and homeowner loans and in connection with certain residential mortgage refinances.

Loan Origination Fees and Costs. In addition to interest earned on loans, we receive loan origination fees. Such fees vary with the volume and type of loans and commitments made, and competitive conditions in the mortgage markets, which in turn respond to the demand and availability of money. We defer loan origination fees and costs, and amortize such amounts as an adjustment to yield over the term of the loan by use of the level yield method. Deferred loan origination fees (net of deferred costs) were $310,000 at September 30, 2012.

To the extent that originated loans are sold with servicing retained, we capitalize a mortgage servicing asset at the time of the sale. The capitalized amount is amortized thereafter (over the period of estimated net servicing income) as a reduction of servicing fee income. The unamortized amount is fully charged to income when loans are prepaid. Originated mortgage servicing rights with an amortized cost of $1.6 million are included in other assets at September 30, 2012.

7

Table of Contents


Loans to One Borrower. At September 30, 2012, our five largest aggregate amounts loaned to any one borrower and certain related interests (including any unused lines of credit) consisted of secured and unsecured financing of $24.4 million, $22.1 million, $19.9 million, $18.9 million and $18.8 million. In addition, we have 35 relationships with an amount loaned of $10 million or more, with an aggregate exposure of $503.1 million. See “Regulation — Regulation of Provident Bank — Loans to One Borrower” for a discussion of applicable regulatory limitations.

Delinquent Loans, Troubled Debt Restructure, Impaired Loans, Other Real Estate Owned and Classified Assets

Collection Procedures for Residential and Commercial Mortgage Loans and Consumer Loans. A late notice is automatically generated after the 16th day of loan payment due date requesting the payment due plus any late charge that was assessed. Legal action, notwithstanding ongoing collection efforts are put in place after 90 days of the original due date for failure to make payment. Unsecured consumer loans are generally charged-off after 120 days. For commercial loans, procedures vary depending upon individual circumstances.

Loans Past Due and Non-Performing Assets. Loans are reviewed on a regular basis, and are placed on non-accrual status when either principal or interest is 90 days or more past due, unless well secured and in the process of collection. In addition, loans are placed on non-accrual status when, in the opinion of management, there is sufficient reason to question the borrower’s ability to continue to meet principal or interest payment obligations. Interest accrued and unpaid at the time a loan is placed on non-accrual status is reversed from interest income related to current year income and charged to the allowance for loan losses with respect to income that was recorded in the prior fiscal year. Interest payments received on non-accrual loans are not recognized as income unless warranted based on the borrower’s financial condition and payment record. Appraisals are performed at least annually on criticized/classifieds loans. At September 30, 2012, we had non-accrual loans of $35.4 million and $4.4 million of loans 90 days past due and still accruing interest, which were well secured and in the process of collection. At September 30, 2011, we had non-accrual loans of $36.5 million and $4.1 million of loans 90 days past due and still accruing interest.

Impaired Loans. A loan is impaired when it is probable that a creditor will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Impaired loans are based on one of three measures — 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. If the measure of an impaired loan is less than its recorded investment, a portion of the allowance for loan losses is allocated so that the loan is reported, net, at its measured value. Impaired loans substantially consist of non-performing loans and accruing and performing troubled debt restructured loans. At September 30, 2012, we had $53.3 million in impaired loans with $3.2 million in specific allowances.

Other Real Estate Owned. Real estate acquired as a result of foreclosure or by deed in lieu of foreclosure is classified as real estate owned (“REO”) until such time as it is sold. When real estate is acquired through foreclosure or by deed in lieu of foreclosure, it is recorded at the lower of book value or fair value less cost to sell. If the fair value of the property is less than the loan balance, the difference is charged against the allowance for loan losses. At September 30, 2012, we had 24 foreclosed properties with a recorded balance of $6.4 million.

Troubled Debt Restructure. The Company may modify loans to certain borrowers who are experiencing financial difficulty. If the terms of the modification include a concession, as defined by US GAAP guidance, the loan as modified is considered a trouble debt restructure (“TDR”). Nearly all of these loans are secured by real estate. Total TDRs were $24.9 million at September 30, 2012, of which $10.9 million were classified as nonaccrual and $14.1 million were performing according to terms and still accruing interest income. TDRs still accruing interest income were modified for a troubled borrower, who was still performing in accordance with the terms of their loan. The majority of TDRs consisted of four relationships totaling $8.7 million, $4.8 million, $3.5 million and $812,000 respectively. Included in the total of $17.8 million of these four relationships are $8.7 million of non performing loans. The loan modifications included actions such as extension of maturity date or the lowering of interest rates and monthly payments. The amount of commitments to lend borrowers with loans that have been modified is $4.2 million at September 30, 2012. The commitments to lend on the restructured debt is contingent on clear title and a third party inspection to verify completion of work and is associated with loans that are considered to be performing.

Classification of Assets. Our policies, consistent with regulatory guidelines, provide for the classification of loans and other assets that are considered to be of lesser quality 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 bank will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. Assets classified as “doubtful” have all of the weaknesses inherent in those classified as “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,

8

Table of Contents

highly questionable and improbable. Assets classified as “loss” are those considered uncollectible and of such little value that their continuance as assets is not warranted and are charged off. Assets that do not expose us to risk sufficient to warrant classification in one of the aforementioned categories, but which possess potential weaknesses that deserve our close attention, designated as “special mention”. As of September 30, 2012, we had $42.4 million of assets designated as “special mention”.

Our determination as to the classification of our assets and the amount of our loss allowances are subject to review by our regulatory agencies, which can order the establishment of additional loss allowances. Management regularly reviews our asset portfolio to determine whether any assets require classification in accordance with applicable regulations. On the basis of management’s review of our assets at September 30, 2012, classified assets consisted of substandard and doubtful loans of $88.7 million.

9

Table of Contents

Loan Portfolio Delinquencies. The following table sets forth certain information with respect to our loan portfolio delinquencies at the dates indicated.
 Loans Delinquent For    
 30-89 Days 
90 Days & over still
accruing & non-
accrual
 Total
 Number Amount Number Amount Number Amount
 (Dollars in thousands)
At September 30, 2012           
Real estate — residential mortgage10
 $1,352
 56
 $11,314
 66
 $12,666
Real estate — commercial mortgage7
 1,875
 30
 10,453
 37
 12,328
Commercial business loans7
 237
 2
 344
 9
 581
Acquisition, development & construction9
 7,067
 29
 15,404
 38
 22,471
Consumer, including home equity loans22
 1,816
 21
 2,299
 43
 4,115
Total55
 $12,347
 138
 $39,814
 193
 $52,161
At September 30, 2011           
Real estate — residential mortgage8
 $1,212
 40
 $7,976
 48
 $9,188
Real estate — commercial mortgage4
 1,105
 34
 13,214
 38
 14,319
Commercial business loans2
 490
 3
 243
 5
 733
Acquisition, development & construction4
 4,265
 24
 16,984
 28
 21,249
Consumer, including home equity loans20
 794
 26
 2,150
 46
 2,944
Total38
 $7,866
 127
 $40,567
 165
 $48,433
At September 30, 2010           
Real estate — residential mortgage1
 $113
 36
 $8,033
 37
 $8,146
Real estate — commercial mortgage4
 1,469
 26
 9,857
 30
 11,326
Commercial business loans2
 3,403
 6
 1,376
 8
 4,779
Acquisition, development & construction2
 6,681
 11
 5,730
 13
 12,411
Consumer, including home equity loans27
 681
 22
 1,844
 49
 2,525
Total36
 $12,347
 101
 $26,840
 137
 $39,187
At September 30, 2009           
Real estate — residential mortgage2
 $390
 32
 $7,357
 34
 $7,747
Real estate — commercial mortgage2
 398
 24
 6,803
 26
 7,201
Commercial business loans18
 999
 8
 457
 26
 1,456
Acquisition, development & construction1
 366
 20
 11,270
 21
 11,636
Consumer, including home equity loans22
 494
 13
 582
 35
 1,076
Total45
 $2,647
 97
 $26,469
 142
 $29,116
At September 30, 2008           
Real estate — residential mortgage19
 $4,106
 19
 $4,218
 38
 $8,324
Real estate — commercial mortgage8
 1,666
 12
 3,832
 20
 5,498
Commercial business loans29
 1,318
 35
 2,811
 64
 4,129
Acquisition, development & construction loans
 
 9
 5,596
 9
 5,596
Consumer, including home equity43
 435
 41
 421
 84
 856
Total99
 $7,525
 116
 $16,878
 215
 $24,403


10

Table of Contents

Risk elements. The table below sets forth the amounts and categories of our non-performing assets at the dates indicated.
 September 30,
 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008
 (Dollars in thousands)
Non-performing loans:         
Real estate — residential mortgage$9,051
 $7,485
 $6,080
 $4,425
 $1,731
Real estate — commercial mortgage8,815
 11,225
 6,886
 5,826
 3,100
Commercial business loans344
 243
 1,376
 457
 2,811
Acquisition, development & construction15,404
 16,538
 5,730
 10,830
 5,596
Consumer, including home equity loans1,830
 986
 1,341
 371
 351
Accruing loans past due 90 days or more4,370
 4,090
 5,427
 4,560
 3,289
Total non-performing loans$39,814
 $40,567
 $26,840
 $26,469
 $16,878
Foreclosed properties6,403
 5,391
 3,891
 1,712
 84
Total non-performing assets$46,217
 $45,958
 $30,731
 $28,181
 $16,962
Troubled Debt Restructures still accruing and not included above$14,077
 $8,470
 $16,047
 $674
 $
Ratios:         
Non-performing loans to total loans1.87% 2.38% 1.58% 1.55% 0.97%
Non-performing assets to total assets1.15% 1.46% 1.02% 0.93% 0.57%
For the year ended September 30, 2012, gross interest income that would have been recorded had the non-accrual loans at the end of the year remained on accrual status throughout the year amounted to $1.7 million. Interest income actually recognized on such loans totaled $470,000.

Allowance for Loan Losses. We provide for loan losses based on the allowance method. Accordingly, all loan losses are charged to the related allowance and all recoveries are credited to it. Additions to the allowance for loan losses are provided by charges to income based on various factors which, in management’s judgment, deserve current recognition in estimating probable incurred losses. Management regularly reviews the loan portfolio and makes provisions for loan losses in order to maintain the allowance for loan losses in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The allowance for loan losses consists of amounts specifically allocated to non-performing loans and other criticized or classified loans (if any), as well as allowances determined for each major loan category. After we establish a provision for loans that are known to be non-performing, criticized or classified, we calculate a percentage to apply to the remaining loan portfolio to estimate the probable incurred losses inherent in that portion of the portfolio. These percentages are determined by management, based on historical loss experience for the applicable loan category, and are adjusted to reflect our evaluation of:

levels of, and trends in, delinquencies and non-accruals;
trends in volume and terms of loans;
effects of any changes in lending policies and procedures;
experience, ability, and depth of lending management and staff;
national and local economic trends and conditions;
concentrations of credit by such factors as location, industry, inter-relationships, and borrower; and
for commercial loans, trends in risk ratings.

The Company analyzes loans by two broad segments or classes: real estate secured loans and loans that are either unsecured or secured by other collateral. The segments or classes considered real estate secured are: residential mortgage loans; commercial mortgage loans; commercial mortgage community business loans; ADC loans; homeowner loans, and equity lines of credit. The segments or classes considered unsecured or secured by other than real estate collateral are: commercial business loans, commercial community business loans, and consumer loans. In all segments or classes, loans are reviewed for impairment once they are past due 90 days or more past due, or are classified substandard or doubtful. If a loan is deemed to be impaired in one of the real estate secured segments, it is generally considered collateral dependent. If the value of the collateral securing a collateral dependent impaired loan is less than the loan's carrying value, a charge-off is recognized equal to the difference between the appraised value and the book value of the loan. Additionally impairment reserves are recognized for estimated costs to hold and to liquidate and a 10% discount of the appraisal value. The ranges for the costs to hold and liquidate are 12-22% for the following segments: commercial mortgage loans, commercial mortgage community business mortgage loans and ADC loans and 7-13 % for homeowner loans, equity lines of credit, and residential mortgage loans. Impaired loans in the real estate secured segments are re-appraised using a summary or drive-by appraisal report every six to nine months.

11

Table of Contents

For loans in the commercial community business loans segmentwe charge off the full amount of the loan when it becomes 90 days or more past due, or earlier in the case of bankruptcy, after giving effect to any cash or marketable securities pledged as collateral for the loan.  For loans in the commercial business loan segment, we conduct a cash flow projection, and charge off the difference between the net present value of the cash flows discounted at the effective note rate and the carrying value of the loan, and generally recognize a 10% impairment reserve to account for the imprecision of our estimates.  However, most of these cases receipt of future cash flows is too unreliable to be considered probable, resulting in the charge off of the entire balance of the loan.  For unsecured consumer loans, charge offs are recognized once the loan is 90 days or more past due or the borrower files for bankruptcy protection.

ADC lending is considered higher risk and exposes us to greater credit risk than permanent mortgage financing. The repayment of land acquisition, development and construction loans depends upon the sale of the property to third parties or the availability of permanent financing upon completion of all improvements. In the event we make an acquisition loan on property that is not yet approved for the planned development, there is the risk that approvals will not be granted or will be delayed. These events may adversely affect the borrower and the collateral value of the property. ADC loans also expose us to the risk that improvements will not be completed on time in accordance with specifications and projected costs. In addition, the ultimate sale or rental of the property may not occur as anticipated. All of these factors are considered as part of the underwriting, structuring and pricing of the loan. We have deemphasized this type of loan.

Commercial real estate loans subject us to the risks that the property securing the loan may not generate sufficient cash flow to service the debt or the borrower may use the cash flow for other purposes. In addition, the foreclosure process, if necessary may be slow and properties may deteriorate in the process. The market values are also subject to a wide variety of factors, including general economic conditions, industry specific factors, environmental factors, interest rates and the availability and terms of credit.
Commercial business lending is also higher risk because repayment depends on the successful operation of the businessHudson Valley Holding Corp. which is subject to a wide range of risks and uncertainties. In addition, the ability to successfully liquidate collateral, if any, is subject to a variety of risks because we must gain control of assets used in the borrower’s business before foreclosing which we cannot be assured of doing, and the value in a foreclosure sale or other means of liquidation is subject to downward pressure.

When we evaluate residential mortgage loans and equity loans we weigh both the credit capacity of the borrower and the collateral value of the home. As unemployment and underemployment increases, and liquidity reserves if any, diminish, the credit capacity of the borrower decreases, which increases our risk. Also, after a period of years of stable or increasing home values in our market, home prices have declined from a high in 2005 and 2006. We are exposed to risk in both our first mortgage and equity lending programs due to declines in values in recent years. We are also exposed to risk because the time to foreclose is significant and has become longer under current conditions.

The carrying value of loans is periodically evaluated and the allowance is adjusted accordingly. While management uses the best information available to make evaluations, future adjustments to the allowance may be necessary if conditions differ substantially from the information used in making the evaluations. In addition, as an integral part of their examination process, our regulatory agencies periodically review the allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require us to recognize additions to the allowance based on their judgments of information available to them at the time of their examination.


12

Table of Contents

Allowance for Loan Losses by Year. The following table sets forth activity in our allowance for loan losses for the years indicated.
 September 30,
 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008
 (Dollars in thousands)
Balance at beginning of period$27,917
 $30,843
 $30,050
 $23,101
 $20,389
Charge-offs:         
Real estate — residential mortgage(2,551) (2,140) (749) (461) (97)
Real estate — commercial mortgage(2,707) (1,802) (987) (902) (627)
Commercial business loans(1,526) (5,400) (6,578) (7,271) (3,596)
Acquisition, development & construction(4,124) (8,939) (848) (1,515) 
Consumer, including home equity loans(1,901) (1,989) (1,168) (1,140) (609)
 (12,809) (20,270) (10,330) (11,289) (4,929)
Recoveries:         
Real estate — residential mortgage356
 15
 3
 2
 
Real estate — commercial mortgage528
 2
 23
 
 
Commercial business loans1,116
 605
 670
 249
 291
Acquisition, development & construction299
 10
 261
 200
 
Consumer, including home equity loans263
 128
 166
 187
 150
 2,562
 760
 1,123
 638
 441
Net charge-offs(10,247) (19,510) (9,207) (10,651) (4,488)
Provision for loan losses10,612
 16,584
 10,000
 17,600
 7,200
Balance at end of period$28,282
 $27,917
 $30,843
 $30,050
 $23,101
Ratios:         
Net charge-offs to average loans outstanding0.56% 1.17% 0.56% 0.62% 0.28%
Allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans71% 69% 115% 114% 137%
Allowance for loan losses to total loans1.48% 1.64% 1.81% 1.76% 1.33%

Allocation of Allowance for Loan Losses. The following tables set forth the allowance for loan losses allocated by loan category, the total loan balances by category (excluding loans held for sale), and the percent of loans in each category to total loans at the dates indicated. The allowance for loan losses allocated to each category is not necessarily indicative of future losses in any particular category and does not restrict the use of the allowance to absorb losses in other categories.
 September 30,
 2012 2011 2010
 
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
 
Loan
Balances by
Category
 
Percent
of Loans
in Each
Category
to Total
Loans
 
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
 
Loan
Balances by
Category
 
Percent
of Loans
in Each
Category
to Total
Loans
 
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
 
Loan
Balances by
Category
 
Percent
of Loans
in Each
Category
to Total
Loans
 (Dollars in thousands)
Real estate — residential mortgage$4,359
 $349,382
 16.48% $3,498
 $389,765
 22.88% $2,641
 $434,900
 25.56%
Real estate — commercial mortgage7,230
 968,703
 45.70% 5,568
 703,356
 41.28% 5,915
 579,231
 34.04%
Commercial business loans4,603
 242,242
 11.43% 5,945
 209,923
 12.31% 8,970
 217,928
 12.81%
Acquisition, development & construction8,526
 144,061
 6.80% 9,895
 175,931
 10.33% 9,752
 231,258
 13.59%
Consumer, including home equity loans3,564
 209,320
 9.88% 3,011
 224,824
 13.20% 3,565
 238,224
 14.00%
Loans acquired in Gotham acquisition
 205,764
 9.71% 
 
 % 
 
 %
Total$28,282
 $2,119,472
 100.00% $27,917
 $1,703,799
 100.00% $30,843
 $1,701,541
 100.00%

13

Table of Contents

 September 30,
 2009 2008
 
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
 
Loan
Balances by
Category
 
Percent
of Loans
in Each
Category
to Total
Loans
 
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
 
Loan
Balances by
Category
 
Percent
of Loans
in Each
Category
to Total
Loans
 (Dollars in thousands)
Real estate — residential mortgage$3,106
 $460,728
 27.04% $1,494
 $513,381
 29.60%
Real estate — commercial mortgage4,824
 460,649
 27.05% 5,793
 554,811
 32.00%
Real estate — commercial mortgage (CBL)2,871
 86,118
 5.06%      
Commercial business loans3,917
 142,908
 8.39% 7,051
 243,642
 14.10%
Commercial business loans (CBL)5,011
 99,721
 5.85%      
Acquisition, development & construction7,680
 201,611
 11.84% 6,841
 170,979
 9.90%
Consumer, including home equity loans2,641
 251,522
 14.77% 1,922
 248,740
 14.40%
Total$30,050
 $1,703,257
 100.00% $23,101
 $1,731,553
 100.00%

Investment Securities
Our investment securities policy is established by our Board of Directors. This policy dictates that investment decisions be made based on the safety of the investment, liquidity requirements, potential returns, cash flow targets, and consistency with our interest rate risk management strategy. The Board’s Enterprise Risk Committee oversees our investment program and evaluates on an ongoing basis our investment policy and objectives. Our chief financial officer, chief executive officer, treasurer and certain other senior officers have the authority to purchase and sell securities within specific guidelines established by the investment policy. In addition, a summary of all transactions are reviewed by the Enterprise Risk Committee at least quarterly.

Our current investment policy generally permits securities investments in debt securities issued by the U.S. government and U.S. agencies, municipal bonds and notes, and corporate debt obligations, as well as investments in preferred and common stock of government agencies and government sponsored enterprises such as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (federal agency securities) and, to a lesser extent, other equity securities. Securities in these categories are classified as “investment securities” for financial reporting purposes. The policy also permits investments in mortgage-backed securities, including pass-through securities issued and guaranteed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae as well as collateralized mortgage obligations (“CMOs”) issued or backed by securities issued by these government agencies. Also permitted are investments in securities issued or backed by the Small Business Administration, privately issued mortgage-backed securities and CMOs, and asset-backed securities collateralized by auto loans, credit card receivables, and home equity and home improvement loans. Our current investment strategy uses a risk management approach of diversified investing in fixed-rate securities with short- to intermediate-term maturities, as well as adjustable-rate securities, which may have a longer term to maturity. The emphasis of this approach is to increase overall securities investment yields while managing interest rate and credit risk.

FASB ASC Topic 320, Investments - Debt and Equity Securities, requires that, at the time of purchase, we designate a security as held to maturity, available for sale, or trading, depending on our ability to hold the security and our intent. Securities available for sale are reported at fair value, while securities held to maturity are reported at amortized cost. We do not have a trading portfolio. Excluding mortgage-backed securities and CMO’s, management sold $253.3 million in investment securities at amortized cost and realized net gains of $8.4 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012

Government and Agency Securities. At September 30, 2012, we held government and agency securities as available for sale with a fair value of $408.8 million, consisting primarily of agency obligations with maturities of more than one year through ten years. In addition, we held $22.2 million in government and agency securities as held to maturity at amortized cost. While these securities generally provide lower yields than other investments such as mortgage-backed securities, our current investment strategy is to maintain investments in such instruments to the extent appropriate for liquidity purposes and as collateral for borrowings and municipal deposits.

Corporate Notes. At September 30, 2012, we did not have any corporate debt securities. Corporate bonds have a higher risk of default due to adverse changes in the creditworthiness of the issuer. In recognition of this risk, our policy limits investments in corporate bonds to securities with maturities of ten years or less and rated “A” or better by at least one nationally recognized rating agency at time of purchase, and to a total investment of no more than $2.0 million per issuer and a total corporate bond portfolio limit of 5% of assets.


14

Table of Contents

Municipal Bonds. At September 30, 2012, we held $175.9 million at carrying value in bonds issued by states and political subdivisions, $19.4 million of which were classified as held to maturity at amortized cost and are mainly unrated and $156.5 million of which were classified as available for sale at fair value. The policy limits investments in municipal bonds to securities with maturities of 20 years or less and rated as investment grade by at least one nationally recognized rating agency at the time of purchase, and favors issues that are insured, however we also purchase securities that are issued by local government entities within our service area. Such local entity obligations generally are not rated, and are subject to internal credit reviews. In addition, the policy generally imposes an investment limitation of $5.0 million per municipal issuer and a total municipal bond portfolio limit of 10% of assets. At September 30, 2012, we did not hold any obligations that were rated less than “A-” as available for sale.

Equity Securities. At September 30, 2012, we held equity securities as available for sale had a fair value of $1.1 million. We also held $19.2 million (at cost) of Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (“FHLBNY”) common stock, a portion of which must be held as a condition of membership in the Federal Home Loan Bank System, with the remainder held as a condition to our borrowing under the Federal Home Loan Bank advance program. Dividends on FHLBNY stock recorded during the year ended September 30, 2012 amounted to $849,000. We did not hold preferred shares of Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae, auction rate securities, or pooled trust securities, for the year ended September 30, 2012. We held approximately $809,000 in fair value of equity securities in a local bank.

Mortgage-Backed Securities. We purchase mortgage-backed securities in order to: (i) generate positive interest rate spreads with minimal administrative expense; (ii) lower credit risk as a result of the guarantees provided by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae; a (iii) increase liquidity, and (iv) maintain our status as a thrift for charter and income tax purposes. We invest primarily in mortgage-backed securities issued or sponsored by Freddie Mac, and Fannie Mae or private issuers for CMOs. To a lesser extent, we also invest in securities backed by agencies of the U.S. Government, such as Ginnie Mae. At September 30, 2012, our mortgage-backed securities portfolio totaled $543.8 million, consisting of $444.5 million available for sale securities at fair value and $99.3 million held to maturity securities at amortized cost. The total mortgage-backed securities portfolio includes CMOs of $221.0 million, consisting of $193.1 million available for sale securities at fair value and $27.9 million held to maturity at amortized cost. The CMO portfolio contains securities issued by private issuers totaling $4.7 million at amortized cost and $4.6 million fair value, of which $4.4 million at amortized cost are below investment grade, to which we have recorded $47,000 in other than temporary impairment as of September 30, 2012.

Mortgage-backed securities are created by pooling mortgages and issuing a security collateralized by the pool of mortgages with an interest rate that is less than the interest rate on the underlying mortgages. Mortgage-backed securities typically represent a participation interest in a pool of single-family or multi-family mortgages, although most of our mortgage-backed securities are collateralized by single-family mortgages. The issuers of such securities (generally U.S. Government agencies and government sponsored enterprises, including Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae) pool and resell the participation interests in the form of securities to investors, such as us, and guarantee the payment of principal and interest to these investors. Investments in mortgage-backed securities involve a risk in addition to the guarantee of repayment of principal outstanding that actual prepayments will be greater or less than the prepayment rate estimated at the time of purchase, which may require adjustments to the amortization of any premium or accretion of any discount relating to such instruments, thereby affecting the net yield and duration of such securities. We review prepayment estimates for our mortgage-backed securities at purchase to ensure that prepayment assumptions are reasonable considering the underlying collateral for the securities at issue and current interest rates, and to determine the yield and estimated maturity of the mortgage-backed securities portfolio. Periodic reviews of current prepayment speeds are performed in order to ascertain whether prepayment estimates require modification that would cause amortization or accretion adjustments. As a result of our reviews, we anticipated an acceleration of prepayments. Management sold $89.1 million in mortgage-backed securities at amortized cost, including CMO’s, at amortized cost and realized $2.1 million in net gains on the sales. These proceeds were reinvested in securities with yields which were lower than the recorded yields of the securities sold and which had a more diversified risk profile.

A portion of our mortgage-backed securities portfolio is invested in CMOs, including Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduits (“REMICs”), backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and certain private issuers. CMOs and REMICs are types of debt securities issued by special-purpose entities that aggregate pools of mortgages and mortgage-backed securities and create different classes of securities with varying maturities and amortization schedules, as well as a residual interest, with each class possessing different risk characteristics. The cash flows from the underlying collateral are generally divided into “tranches” or classes that have descending priorities with respect to the distribution of principal and interest cash flows, while cash flows on pass-through mortgage-backed securities are distributed pro rata to all security holders. Our practice is to limit fixed-rate CMO investments primarily to the early-to-intermediate tranches, which have the greatest cash flow stability. Floating rate CMOs are purchased with emphasis on the relative trade-offs between lifetime rate caps, prepayment risk, and interest rates.


15

Table of Contents

Available for Sale Portfolio. The following table sets forth the composition of our available for sale portfolio at the dates indicated.
 September 30,
 2012 2011 2010
 
Amortized
Cost
 Fair Value 
Amortized
Cost
 Fair Value 
Amortized
Cost
 Fair Value
 (Dollars in thousands)
Investment Securities:           
U.S. Government securities$
 $
 $
 $
 $71,071
 $72,293
Federal agency obligations404,820
 408,823
 199,741
 204,648
 344,154
 346,019
Corporate Bonds
 
 16,984
 17,062
 29,406
 30,540
State and municipal securities146,136
 156,481
 177,666
 188,684
 180,879
 191,657
Equity securities1,087
 1,059
 1,192
 1,192
 1,146
 889
Total investment securities available for sale552,043
 566,363
 395,583
 411,586
 626,656
 641,398
Mortgage-Backed Securities:           
Pass-through securities:           
Fannie Mae155,601
 161,407
 136,699
 139,991
 149,084
 153,188
Freddie Mac81,509
 85,260
 98,511
 100,675
 56,632
 58,452
Ginnie Mae4,488
 4,778
 4,973
 5,180
 9,047
 9,315
CMOs and REMICs191,867
 193,064
 81,170
 82,412
 38,338
 38,659
Total mortgage-backed securities available for sale433,465
 444,509
 321,353
 328,258
 253,101
 259,614
Total securities available for sale$985,508
 $1,010,872
 $716,936
 $739,844
 $879,757
 $901,012
At September 30, 2012, our available for sale federal agency securities portfolio, at fair value, totaled $408.8 million, or 10.20% of total assets. Of the federal agency portfolio, based on amortized cost, none had maturities of one year or less, and $404.8 million had maturities of between one and ten years and a weighted average yield of 1.56%. The agency securities portfolio currently includes both callable debentures and non callable debentures.

At September 30, 2012, our available for sale state and municipal notes securities portfolio, at fair value totaled $156.5 million or 3.9% of total assets. Of the state and municipal note securities portfolio, based on amortized cost, had $2.4 million in securities with a final maturity of one year or less and a weighted average yield of 2.58%; $19.9 million maturing in one to five years with a weighted average yield of 3.44%; $86.4 million maturing in five to ten years with a weighted average yield of 3.54% and $37.5 million maturing in greater than ten years with a weighted average yield of 3.97%. Equity securities available for sale at September 30, 2012 had a fair value of $1.1 million.

At September 30, 2012, $444.5 million of our available for sale mortgage-backed securities, at fair value, consisted of pass-through securities, which totaled 11.0% of total assets and $193.1 million of CMO securities, at fair value. The total amortized cost of these pass- through securities was $241.6 million and consisted of $155.6 million, $81.5 million and $4.5 million of Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae mortgage-backed securities, respectively, with respective weighted average yields of 2.47%, 2.70% and 2.63%. At the same date, the fair value of our available for sale CMO portfolio totaled $193.1 million, or 4.8% of total assets, and consisted of CMOs issued by government sponsored agencies such as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and $4.6 million sold by private party issuers. The amortized cost of these CMOs result in a weighted average yield of 2.06%. We own both fixed-rate and floating-rate CMOs. The underlying mortgage collateral for our portfolio of CMOs available for sale at September 30, 2012 had contractual maturities of over five years. However, as with mortgage-backed pass-through securities, the actual maturity of a CMO may be less than its stated contractual maturity due to prepayments of the underlying mortgages and the terms of the CMO tranche owned.


16

Table of Contents

Held to Maturity Portfolio. The following table sets forth the composition of our held to maturity portfolio at the dates indicated.
 September 30,
 2012 2011 2010
 
Amortized
Cost
 Fair Value 
Amortized
Cost
 Fair Value 
Amortized
Cost
 Fair Value
 (Dollars in thousands)
Investment Securities:           
Federal agencies$22,236
 $22,342
 $29,973
 $29,857
 $
 $
State and municipal securities19,376
 20,435
 18,583
 19,691
 27,879
 28,815
Other1,500
 1,526
 1,500
 1,539
 1,000
 1,038
Total investment securities held to maturity43,112
 44,303
 50,056
 51,087
 28,879
 29,853
Mortgage-Backed Securities:           
Pass-through securities:           
Fannie Mae28,637
 29,849
 1,298
 1,361
 1,835
 1,931
Freddie Mac42,706
 44,053
 32,858
 32,841
 2,389
 2,513
Ginnie Mae
 
 
 
 16
 17
CMOs and REMICs27,921
 28,119
 25,828
 25,983
 729
 748
Total mortgage-backed securities held to maturity99,264
 102,021
 59,984
 60,185
 4,969
 5,209
Total securities held to maturity$142,376
 $146,324
 $110,040
 $111,272
 $33,848
 $35,062

At September 30, 2012, our held to maturity federal agency securities portfolio, at amortized cost, totaled $22.2 million, or 0.6% of total assets. Of the federal agency portfolio, based on amortized cost, none had maturities of five years or less, and $22.2 million had maturities of between five and ten years and a weighted average yield of 2.11%. The agency securities portfolio currently includes only callable debentures.

State and municipal securities totaled $19.4 million at amortized cost (primarily unrated obligations) and consisted of $9.9 million, with a final maturity of one year or less and a weighted average yield of 2.38%; $1.9 million maturing in one to five years, with a weighted average yield of 3.77%; $3.4 million maturing in five to ten years, with a weighted average yield of 4.18% and $4.2 million maturing in greater than ten years, with a weighted average yield of 4.24%.

At September 30, 2012, our held to maturity mortgage-backed securities portfolio totaled $99.3 million at amortized cost, consisting of: none with contractual maturities of one year or less, $282,000 with a weighted average yield of 5.63% and contractual maturities within five years, and $99.0 million with a weighted average yield of 2.58% with contractual maturities of greater than ten years; CMOs of $27.9 million are includeddetailed previously in this portfolio. While the contractual maturity of the CMOs underlying collateral is greater than ten years, the actual period to maturity of the CMOs may be shorter due to prepayments on the underlying mortgages and the terms of the CMO tranche owned.


17

Table of Contents

Portfolio Maturities and Yields. The following table summarizes the composition and maturities of the investment debt securities portfolio and the mortgage-backed securities portfolio at September 30, 2012. Maturities are based on the final contractual payment dates, and do not reflect the impact of prepayments or early redemptions that may occur. State and municipal securities yields have not been adjusted to a tax-equivalent basis. ($ in thousands)
 One Year or Less 
More than One Year
through Five Years
 
More than Five Years
through Ten Years
 More than Ten Years Total Securities
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Weighted
Average
Yield
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Weighted
Average
Yield
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Weighted
Average
Yield
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Weighted
Average
Yield
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair
Value
 
Weighted
Average
Yield
 (Dollars in thousands)
Available for Sale:                     
Mortgage-Backed Securities                
    
Fannie Mae$108
 4.14% $5,688
 2.13% $33,201
 2.27% $116,604
 2.54% $155,601
 $161,407
 2.47%
Freddie Mac168
 3.71
 393
 3.80
 
 
 80,948
 2.69
 81,509
 85,260
 2.70
Ginnie Mae
 
 
 
 
 
 4,488
 2.63
 4,488
 4,778
 2.63
CMOs and REMICs
 
 
 
 9,628
 1.99
 182,239
 2.06
 191,867
 193,064
 2.06
Total276
 3.88
 6,081
 2.24
 42,829
 2.21
 384,279
 2.35
 433,465
 444,509
 2.33
Investment Securities                

    
U.S. Government and agency securities
 
 107,391
 1.33
 297,429
 1.64
 
 
 404,820
 408,823
 1.56
State and municipal2,365
 2.58
 19,850
 3.44
 86,439
 3.54
 37,482
 3.97
 146,136
 156,481
 3.62
Total2,365
 2.58
 127,241
 1.66
 383,868
 2.07
 37,482
 3.97
 550,956
 565,304
 2.10%
Total debt securities available for sale$2,641
 2.72% $133,322
 1.68% $426,697
 2.08% $421,761
 2.49% $984,421
 $1,009,813
 2.20%
Held to Maturity:                     
Mortgage-Backed Securities                     
Fannie Mae$
 % $76
 4.81% $
 % $28,561
 2.93% $28,637
 $29,849
 2.93%
Freddie Mac
 
 206
 5.93
 
 
 42,500
 2.59
 42,706
 44,053
 2.61%
CMOs and REMICs
 
 
 
 
 
 27,921
 2.18
 27,921
 28,119
 2.18%
Total
 
 282
 5.63
 
 
 98,982
 2.57
 99,264
 102,021
 2.58%
Investment Securities                     
U.S. Government and agency securities
 % 
 
 22,236
 2.11
 
 
 22,236
 22,342
 2.11%
State and municipal9,867
 2.38
 1,930
 3.77
 3,375
 4.18
 4,204
 4.24
 19,376
 20,435
 3.24%
Other250
 1.51
 1,250
 2.53
 
 
 
 
 1,500
 1,526
 2.36%
Total10,117
 2.36
 3,180
 3.28
 25,611
 2.38
 4,204
 4.24
 43,112
 44,303
 5.42%
Total debt securities held to maturity$10,117
 2.36% $3,462
 3.47% $25,611
 2.38% $103,186
 2.64% $142,376
 $146,324
 3.07%

Sources of Funds
General. Deposits, borrowings, repayments and prepayments of loans and securities, proceeds from sales of loans and securities, proceeds from maturing securities and cash flows from operations are the primary sources of our funds for use in lending, investing and for other general corporate purposes.

Deposits. We offer a variety of deposit accounts with a range of interest rates and terms. Our deposit accounts consist of savings accounts, NOW accounts, checking accounts, money market accounts, club accounts, certificates of deposit and IRAs and other qualified plan accounts. We provide a variety of commercial checking accounts and other products for businesses.

At September 30, 2012, our deposits totaled $3.1 billion. Interest-bearing deposits totaled $2.2 billion, and non-interest-bearing demand deposits totaled $947.3 million. NOW, savings and money market deposits totaled $1.8 billion at September 30, 2012. Also at that date, we had a total of $387.5 million in certificates of deposit, of which $344.0 million had maturities of one year or

18

Table of Contents

less. Although we have a significant portion of our deposits in shorter-term certificates of deposit, we monitor activity on these accounts and, based on historical experience and our current pricing strategy, we believe we will retain a large portion of such accounts upon maturity, although we may have to match competitive rates to retain many of these accounts.

Our deposits are obtained predominantly from the areas in which our branch offices are located. We rely on our favorable locations, customer service and competitive pricing to attract and retain these deposits. While we accept certificates of deposit in excess of $100,000 for which we may provide preferential rates, we do not actively solicit such deposits as they are more difficult to retain than core deposits. Our limited purpose commercial bank subsidiary, Provident Municipal Bank, accepts municipal deposits. Municipal time accounts (certificates of deposit) are generally obtained through a bidding process, and tend to carry higher average interest rates than retail certificates of deposit of similar term.

We utilize brokered deposits on a limited basis as a diversification of wholesale funding on a secured basis. We maintain limits for the use of wholesale deposit and other short term funding in general less than 10% of total assets. Most of the brokered deposit funding maintained by the bank has a maturity to coincide with the anticipated inflows of deposits through municipal tax collections.

Listed below are the Company’s brokered deposits:
 
September 30,
2012

 
September 30,
2011

 (Dollars in thousands)
Savings$13,344
 $
Money market46,566
 5,725
Reciprocal CDAR’s 1
1,354
 2,746
CDAR’s one way764
 3,366
Total brokered deposits$62,028
 $11,837
1
Certificate of deposit account registry service

Distribution of Deposit Accounts by Type. The following table sets forth the distribution of total deposit accounts, by account type, at the dates indicated.
 For the year ended September 30,
 2012 2011 2010
 Amount Percent Amount Percent Amount Percent
 (Dollars in thousands)
Demand deposits:           
Retail$167,050
 5.4% $194,299
 8.5% $174,731
 8.2%
Commercial & municipal780,254
 25.0
 456,927
 19.8
 355,126
 16.6
Total demand deposits947,304
 30.4
 651,226
 28.3
 529,857
 24.8
Business & municipal NOW deposits234,368
 7.5
 237,865
 10.4
 276,100
 12.9
Personal NOW deposits213,755
 6.9
 164,637
 7.2
 139,517
 6.5
Savings deposits506,538
 16.3
 429,825
 18.7
 392,321
 18.3
Money market deposits821,704
 26.4
 509,483
 22.2
 427,334
 19.9
Subtotal2,723,669
 87.5
 1,993,036
 86.8
 1,765,129
 82.4
Certificates of deposit387,482
 12.5
 303,659
 13.2
 377,573
 17.6
Total deposits$3,111,151
 100.0% $2,296,695
 100.0% $2,142,702
 100.0%


19

Table of Contents

As of September 30, 2012 and September 30, 2011 the Company had $901.7 million and $614.8 million, respectively, in municipal deposits. Of these amounts, approximately $425.0 million and $284.0 million were deposits related to school district tax deposits due on September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively, which we generally retain only for a short period. The following table sets forth the distribution of average deposit accounts by account category with the average rates paid at the dates indicated.
 September 30,
 2012 2011 2010
 
Average
Balance
 Interest 
Average
Rate
Paid
 
Average
Balance
 Interest 
Average
Rate
Paid
 
Average
Balance
 Interest 
Average
Rate
Paid
 (Dollars in thousands)
Non interest bearing deposits$520,265
 $
 % $472,388
 $
 % $429,655
 $
 %
NOW deposits399,819
 483
 0.12% 315,623
 595
 0.19% 280,304
 579
 0.21%
Savings deposits (1)
485,624
 393
 0.08% 432,227
 444
 0.10% 397,760
 403
 0.10%
Money market deposits671,325
 2,194
 0.33% 489,347
 1,595
 0.33% 419,152
 1,456
 0.35%
Certificates of deposit289,230
 2,511
 0.87% 373,142
 3,470
 0.93% 451,509
 6,079
 1.35%
Total interest bearing deposits1,845,998
 $5,581
 0.30% 1,610,339
 $6,104
 0.38% 1,548,725
 $8,517
 0.55%
Total deposits$2,366,263
     $2,082,727
     $1,978,380
    
(1)Includes club accounts and mortgage escrow balances

Certificates of Deposit by Interest Rate Range. The following table sets forth information concerning certificates of deposit by interest rate ranges at the dates indicated.

 At September 30, 2012    
 Period to Maturity Total at September 30,
 
Less than
One Year
 
One to
Two Years
 
Two to
Three Years
 
More than
Three Years
 Total 
Percent of
Total
 2011 2010
 (Dollars in thousands)
Interest Rate Range:               
1.00% and below$224,994
 $7,703
 $4,396
 $2,056
 $239,149
 61.7% $245,777
 $285,923
1.01% to 2.00%108,115
 2,634
 220
 3,867
 114,836
 29.6% 15,024
 35,527
2.01% to 3.00%1,046
 4,020
 5,985
 518
 11,569
 3.0% 16,842
 21,261
3.01% to 4.00%3,303
 5,798
 
 
 9,101
 2.4% 10,526
 17,092
4.01% to 5.00%6,272
 6,252
 
 
 12,524
 3.2% 15,002
 17,115
5.01% to 6.00%303
 
 
 
 303
 0.1% 488
 655
Total$344,033
 $26,407
 $10,601
 $6,441
 $387,482
 100% $303,659
 $377,573

Certificates of Deposit by Time to Maturity. The following table sets forth certificates of deposit by time remaining until maturity as of September 30, 2012.
 Maturity
 
3 months or
Less
 
Over 3 to 6
Months
 
Over 6 to 12
Months
 
Over 12
Months
 Total
 (Dollars in thousands)
Certificates of deposit less than $100,000$67,692
 $42,852
 $46,422
 $27,000
 $183,966
Certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more (¹)
99,036
 45,839
 42,192
 16,449
 203,516
 $166,728
 $88,691
 $88,614
 $43,449
 $387,482
 __________________
(¹)
The weighted interest rates for these accounts, by maturity period, are 1.08% for 3 months or less; 1.06% for 3 to 6 months; 1.04% for 6 to 12 months; and 2.37% for over 12 months. The overall weighted average interest rate for accounts of $100,000 or more was 1.17%

20

Table of Contents

Short-term Borrowings. Our short-term borrowings (less than one year) consist of advances and overnight borrowings, and in 2011 includes $51.5 million of debt guaranteed by the FDIC which matured in February 2012. At September 30, 2012, we had access to additional Federal Home Loan Bank advances of up to an additional $200 million in overnight advances on a collateralized basis. The following table sets forth information concerning balances and interest rates on our short-term borrowings at the dates and for the years indicated.
 At or For the Years Ended September 30,
 2012 2011 2010
 (Dollars in thousands)
Balance at end of year$10,136
 $61,500
 $44,873
Average balance during year27,286
 55,098
 91,442
Maximum outstanding at any month end103,500
 128,200
 184,040
Weighted average interest rate at end of year1.88% 2.96% 3.82%
Weighted average interest rate during year0.78% 1.67% 2.33%
section.

Competition
The greater New York metropolitan arearegion is a highly-competitivehighly competitive market area. The New York metropolitan area haswith a high concentration of financial institutions, many of which are significantly larger institutions with greater financial resources than us, and many of which are our competitors to varying degrees. Our competition for loans comes principally from commercial banks, savings banks, mortgage banking companies, credit unions, insurance companies and other financial serviceservices companies. Our most direct competition for deposits has historically come from commercial banks, savings banks and credit unions. We face additional competition for deposits from non-depository competitors such as the mutual fund industry,funds, securities and brokerage firms and insurance companies. We have emphasized personalizedrelationship banking and the advantage of local decision-making in our banking business and this strategy appears to have been well-received in our market area.business. We do not rely on any individual, group, or entity for a material portion of our deposits. Although we have not done so in the past, netNet interest income could be adversely affected should competitive pressures cause us to increase ourthe interest rates paid on deposits in order to maintain our market share.

Employees
As of September 30, 2012,2014, we had 456836 full-time employees and 66 part-timeequivalent employees. The employees are not represented by a collective bargaining unit and we consider our relationship with our employees to be good.

Supervision and Regulation

General
As a savingsSterling Bancorp and loan holding company, Provident Bancorp is supervised and regulated by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (“Federal Reserve”). Its federal savings bank subsidiary, ProvidentSterling National Bank is supervised and regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”). As a state-chartered, FDIC-insured bank, Provident Municipal Bank is regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”). Because it is an FDIC-insured institution, Provident Bank also isare subject to extensive regulation by the FDIC. Provident Bank's relationship with its depositors and borrowers is governed to a great extent by bothunder federal and state laws, especially in matters concerninglaws. The regulatory framework is intended primarily for the ownershipprotection of depositors, federal deposit accountsinsurance funds and the formbanking system as a whole and contentnot for the protection of Provident Bank's loan documents. As a regulated financial services firm, our relationshipsstockholders and good standing with regulators are of fundamental importance to the continuation and growth of our businesses. The Federal Reserve, OCC, FDIC, SEC, and other regulators have broad enforcement powers, and powers to approve, deny, or refuse to act upon our applications or notices to conduct new activities, acquire or divest businesses or assets, or reconfigure existing operations.creditors.

Certain federal banking laws have been amended by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”). See “Regulation - Financial Reform Legislation” below. Among the more significant changes made by the Dodd-Frank Act, effective July 21, 2011, the Office of Thrift Supervision (“OTS”) ceased to exist as a separate entity and was merged into the OCC. The OCC has assumed the OTS' role as primary federal regulator and supervisor of Provident Bank. The Federal Reserve has become the primary supervisor and regulator with respect to Provident Bancorp. SomeSignificant elements of the numerous governmental regulations to which Provident Bancorp and its subsidiaries are subject are summarized below. These summaries are not complete and you should refer to these laws and regulations for more information. Failureapplicable to comply with applicable lawsthe Company and the Bank are described below. The description is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the statutes, regulations could result in a range of sanctions and enforcement actions, including the imposition of civil money penalties, formal agreementspolicies that are described. Also, such statutes, regulations and cease and desist orders. Applicable laws and regulations may change in the future and any such change could have a material adverse impact on Provident Bancorp, Provident Bank or Provident Municipal Bank.


213

Table of Contents




In addition, Provident Bancorppolicies are continually under review by Congress and state legislatures and federal and state regulatory agencies. A change in statutes, regulations or regulatory policies applicable to Sterling and its subsidiaries are subjectcould have a material effect on the business, financial condition and results of operations of the Company.  While the Bank currently has less than $10 billion in assets, after the completion of the HVB Merger, the Bank’s total assets could exceed $10 billion, thus subjecting it to examinationadditional supervision and regulation, including by regulators, which results in examination reportsthe Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”), with such additional supervision and ratings (which are not publicly available) that can impactregulation discussed throughout this section.

Regulatory Reforms
The Dodd-Frank Act significantly restructures the conduct and growth of our businesses. These examinations consider not only compliance with applicable laws and regulations, but also capital levels, asset quality and risk, management ability and performance, earnings, liquidity, and various other factors. An examination downgrade by any of our federal bank regulators potentially can resultfinancial regulatory regime in the imposition of significant limitations on ourUnited States, and will continue to affect, into the immediate future, the lending and investment activities and growth. These regulatory agencies generally have broad discretion to impose restrictions and limitations on thegeneral operations of depository institutions and their holding companies. This will particularly be the case for the Company and the Bank if, as anticipated, the Bank’s total assets exceed $10 billion as a regulated entity whereresult of the agencies determine, among other things, that such operations are unsafe or unsound, failHVB Merger.
The Dodd-Frank Act made many changes in banking regulation, including:
forming the CFPB with broad powers to comply with applicable law or are otherwise inconsistent with lawsadopt and regulations or with enforce consumer protection regulations;
the supervisory policiesstandard maximum amount of these agencies. This supervisory framework could materially impact deposit insurance per customer was permanently increased to $250,000;
the conduct, growthassessment base for determining deposit insurance premiums has been expanded from domestic deposits to average assets minus average tangible equity; and profitability of our operations.

Holding Company Regulation
Provident Bancorp is a unitary savings and loan holding company because it owns only one savings association. The Federal Reserve has supervisory and enforcement authority over Provident Bancorp and its non-bank subsidiaries. Among other things, this authority permits the Federal Reserve to restrictBoard (the “FRB”) has imposed on financial institutions with assets of $10 billion or prohibit activitiesmore a cap on the debit card interchange fees the financial institutions may charge.
In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act requires that the FRB establish minimum consolidated capital requirements for bank holding companies that are determinedas stringent as those required for insured depository institutions, and that the components of Tier 1 capital be restricted to capital instruments that are currently considered to be a risk to Provident Bank.

Provident Bancorp must generally limit its activities to those permissibleTier 1 capital for insured depository institutions. In addition, the proceeds of trust preferred securities will be excluded from Tier 1 capital unless (i) financialsuch securities are issued by bank holding companies under section 4(k)with assets of the Bank Holding Company Act,less than $500 million, or (ii) multiplesuch securities were issued prior to May 19, 2010 by bank or savings and loan holding companies under the Savings and Loan Holding Company Act. Activities in which a financial holding company may engage are those considered financial in nature or those incidentals or complementary to financial activities. These activities include lending, trust and investment advisory activities, insurance agency activities, and securities and insurance underwriting activities. Activities permitted to multiple savings and loan holding companies include certain real estate investment activities, and other activities permitted to bank holding companies under the Bank Holding Company Act, as implemented by the Federal Reserve's Regulation Y.with assets of less than $15 billion.

Federal law prohibits Provident Bancorp, directly or indirectly, or through one or more subsidiaries, from acquiring control of another savings association, another bank, a savings and loan holding company, or a bank holding company without prior written approvalMany of the Federal Reserve Bank. It also prohibits the acquisition or retention of, with specified exceptions, more than 5%provisions of the voting shares of a savings association or savingsDodd-Frank Act are not yet effective. The Dodd-Frank Act requires various federal agencies to promulgate numerous and loan holding company thatextensive implementing regulations over the next several years. Although it is not already a subsidiary, without prior written approval ofdifficult to predict at this time what impact the Federal Reserve Bank. In evaluating applications for acquisition,Dodd-Frank Act and the Federal Reserve Bank must consider the financial and managerial resources and future prospects of the company and association involved the effect of the acquisitionimplementing regulations will have on the association,Company and the riskBank, they may have a material impact on operations through, among other things, heightened regulatory supervision and increased compliance costs. The Company continues to analyze the Deposit Insurance Fund,impact of rules adopted under the convenienceDodd-Frank Act on the Company’s business. However, the full impact will not be known until the rules, and needs ofother regulatory initiatives that overlap with the community torules, are finalized and their combined impacts can be served, and competitive factors.understood.

As a public company with securities registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Provident Bancorp also is subject to that statute and to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.Regulatory Agencies

Dividends
ProvidentSterling Bancorp is a legal entity separate and distinct from its savings association and other subsidiaries,Sterling National Bank and its principal sourcesother subsidiaries. As bank and a financial holding company, Sterling Bancorp is regulated under the Bank Holding Company Act of funds1956, as amended (“BHC Act”), and its subsidiaries are cash dividends paidsubject to inspection, examination and supervision by these subsidiaries. OCCthe FRB as its primary federal regulator.

As a national bank, the Bank is principally subject to the supervision, examination and reporting requirements of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the “OCC”), as its primary federal regulator, as well as the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”). Insured banks, including the Bank, are subject to extensive regulations limitthat relate to, among other things: (a) the nature and amount of capital distributions, including cash dividends, stock repurchases, and other transactions charged to the institution's capital account,loans that canmay be made by Provident Bank. Furthermore, because Providentthe Bank isand the rates of interest that may be charged; (b) types and amounts of other investments; (c) branching; (d) permissible activities; (e) reserve requirements; and (f) dealings with officers, directors and affiliates. 

Bank Holding Company Activities
In general, the BHC Act limits the business of bank holding companies to banking, managing or controlling banks and other activities that the FRB has determined to be so closely related to banking as to be a subsidiaryproper incident thereto. In addition, bank holding companies that qualify and elect to be financial holding companies such as the Company, may engage in any activity, or acquire and retain the shares of a holding company it must file a noticeengaged in any activity, that is either (i) financial in nature or incidental to such financial activity (as determined by the FRB in consultation with the Federal Reserve at least 30 days before Provident Bank's BoardSecretary of Directors declaresthe Treasury) or (ii) complementary to a dividend. This notice may be disapproved iffinancial activity and does not pose a substantial risk to the Federal Reserve finds that:

the savings association would be undercapitalized or worse following the dividend;
the proposed dividend raises safety and soundness concerns;of depository institutions or
the dividend would violate a prohibition contained in any statute, regulation, enforcement action, or agreement with or condition imposedfinancial system generally (as solely determined by an appropriate federal banking agency.the FRB), without prior approval of the FRB.

Provident BankTo maintain financial holding company status, a financial holding company and all of its depository institution subsidiaries must file an application (rather than a notice) withbe “well capitalized” and “well managed.” A depository institution subsidiary is considered to be “well capitalized” if it satisfies the OCC if, among other things,requirements for this status discussed in the total amount of all capital distributions, including the proposed distribution, for the calendar year exceeds the institution's net income for that year, plus retained net income for the preceding two years.

As of October 1, 2012, the maximum amount of dividends that could be declared by Provident Bank for fiscal year 2012, without regulatory approval,section captioned “Prompt Corrective Action.” A depository institution subsidiary is net retained income for calendar year 2012, plus $10.0 million.




considered “well

224

Table of Contents




managed” if it received a composite rating and management rating of at least “satisfactory” in its most recent examination. A financial holding company’s status will also depend upon it maintaining its status as “well capitalized” and “well managed” under applicable FRB regulations. If a financial holding company ceases to meet these capital and management requirements, the FRB’s regulations provide that the financial holding company must enter into an agreement with the FRB to comply with all applicable capital and management requirements. Until the financial holding company returns to compliance, the FRB may impose limitations or conditions on the conduct of its activities, and the company may not commence any of the broader financial activities permissible for financial holding companies or acquire a company engaged in such financial activities without prior approval of the FRB. If the company does not return to compliance within 180 days, the FRB may require divestiture of the holding company’s depository institutions.

In order for a financial holding company to commence any new activity permitted by the BHC Act or to acquire a company engaged in any new activity permitted by the BHC Act, each insured depository institution subsidiary of the financial holding company must have received a rating of at least “satisfactory” in its most recent examination under the Community Reinvestment Act.

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

The BHC Act, the Bank Merger Act, and other federal and state statutes regulate acquisitions of banks and banking companies. The BHC Act requires the prior approval of the FRB for the direct or indirect acquisition by the Company of more than 5% of the voting shares or substantially all of the assets of a bank or bank holding company. Under the Bank Merger Act, the prior approval of the FRB or other appropriate bank regulatory authority is required for the Bank to merge with another bank or purchase the assets or assume the deposits of another bank. In reviewing applications seeking approval of merger and acquisition transactions, the bank regulatory authorities will consider, among other things, the competitive effect and public benefits of the transactions, the capital position of the combined organization, the risks to the stability of the U.S. banking or financial system, the applicant’s performance record under the Community Reinvestment Act and fair housing laws and the effectiveness of the subject organizations in combating money laundering activities.

Capital Requirements
As a federal savings association, Providentbank holding company, the Company is subject to consolidated regulatory capital requirements administered by the FRB. The Bank is subject to OCCsimilar capital requirements.requirements administered by the OCC. The OCC regulations require savings associations to meet three minimum capital standards: at least an 8%federal regulatory authorities’ risk-based capital ratio, a 4% leverage ratio (3% for institutions receivingguidelines are based upon the highest supervisory rating),1988 capital accord (“Basel I”) of the Basel Committee, which are intended to ensure that banking organizations have adequate capital given the risk levels of assets and at least a 1.5% tangible capital ratio.

The OCC's risk-based capital standards require a savings associationoff-balance sheet financial instruments. Under the requirements, banking organizations are required to maintain aminimum ratios for Tier 1 (core)capital and total capital to risk-weighted assets ratio(including certain off-balance sheet items, such as letters of at least 4%,credit). For purposes of calculating the ratios, a banking organization’s assets and a total (core plus supplementary)some of its specified off-balance sheet commitments and obligations are assigned to various risk categories. A banking organization’s capital, to risk-weighted assets ratio of at least 8%. To determine these ratios, the regulations define corein turn, is classified in tiers, depending on type:

Core Capital (Tier 1)
Currently, Tier 1 capital asincludes common stockholders' equity, (including retained earnings), certain non-cumulativeearnings, qualifying noncumulative perpetual preferred stock, and related surplus, and minority interests in equity accounts of fully consolidated subsidiaries, less intangible capital, other than certain mortgage servicing rights and, credit card relationships. Supplementary capital is defined as includingunder existing standards, a limited amount of qualifying trust preferred securities, and qualifying cumulative perpetual preferred stock at the holding company level, less goodwill, most intangible assets and certain other assets.

Supplementary Capital (Tier 2)
Currently, Tier 2 capital includes, among other things, perpetual preferred stock not meeting the Tier 1 definition, qualifying mandatory convertible debt securities, qualifying subordinated debt, intermediate preferred stock, allowanceand allowances for loan and lease losses, upsubject to a maximumlimitations.

Under the existing risk-based capital rules, the Company and the Bank are currently required to maintain Tier 1 capital and total capital (the sum of 1.25%Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital) equal to at least 4.0% and 8.0%, respectively, of its total risk-weighted assets and up to 45%(including various off-balance-sheet items, such as standby letters of net unrealized gains on available-for-sale equity securities with readily determinable fair market values. The amount of supplementary capital included as part of total capital cannot exceed 100% of core capital. In determining the amount of risk-weighted assets, all assets, including certain off-balance sheet assets, are multiplied bycredit). For a risk-weight factor ranging from 0% to 100%, assigned by the OCC capital regulation based on the risks inherent in the type of asset. The OCC's leverage ratio is defined as the ratio of core capital to adjusted total assets. The tangible capital ratio is defined as the ratio of tangible capital (the components of which are very similar to those of core capital) to adjusted total assets.

In addition to generally applicable capital requirements, Provident Bank has committed to the OCC to have an 8% Tier 1 leverage ratio upon consummation of the Gotham Bank merger and thereafter to maintain capital at comparable levels consistent with its capital management policy. At the time of the merger with Gotham Bank, Provident Bank's Tier 1 leverage ratio exceeded 8% and Provident Bank believes it continuesdepository institution to be in compliance with this commitment under the OCC's average asset calculation method.

The FDIC-insured bank, Provident Municipal Bank is subject to the risk-based capital and leverage capital requirements of the FDIC. These requirements are similar to the OCC risk-based capital and leverage capital requirements described above.

The Dodd-Frank Act contains a number of provisions that affect the capital requirements applicable to Provident Bank and to Provident Bancorp, including the requirement that thrift holding companies be subject to consolidated capital requirements. See “Regulation - Financial Reform Legislation,considered “well capitalized,below. In addition, on September 12, 2010, the Basel Committee adopted the Basel III capital rules. These rules, which will be phased in over a period of years, set new standards for common equity,its Tier 1 and total capital determinedratios must be at least 6.0% and 10.0% on a risk-weighted basis. The U.S. federal banking agencies issued three notices of proposed rulemaking (NPRs) in June 2012 that would revise and replace the current regulatory capital rules to adopt the Basel III capital rules. The NPRs proposed, among other rules, to revise risk-based and leverage capital requirements for all insured banks and savings associations, and top-tier savings and loan holding companies domiciled in the United States. The proposals suggested an effective date of January 1, 2013, but on November 9, 2012 the U.S. federal banking agencies announced that they do not expect any of the Basel III proposed rules to be implemented by the suggested January 2013 date. The enactment of the Basel III rules could increase the required capital levels of Provident Bank and Provident Bancorp.risk-adjusted basis, respectively.

The OCC,elements currently comprising Tier 1 capital and Tier 2 capital and the FDICminimum Tier 1 capital and total capital ratios may in the future be subject to change, as discussed in more detail below.
Bank holding companies and banks are also required to comply with minimum leverage ratio requirements. The leverage ratio is the ratio of a banking organization’s Tier 1 capital to its total adjusted quarterly average assets (as defined for regulatory purposes). The requirements

5

Table of Contents




necessitate a minimum leverage ratio of 3.0% for financial holding companies and banking organizations that have the highest supervisory rating. All other banking organizations are required to maintain a minimum leverage ratio of 4.0%, unless a different minimum is specified by an appropriate regulatory authority. For a depository institution to be considered “well capitalized,” its leverage ratio must be at least 5.0%. The bank regulatory agencies have encouraged banking organizations to operate with capital ratios substantially in excess of the stated ratios required to maintain “well capitalized” status. In light of the foregoing, the Company and the Bank expect that they will maintain capital ratios in excess of well capitalized requirements.

Prompt Corrective Action
The Federal Deposit Insurance Act (“FDIA”) requires, among other things, the federal banking agencies have broad powers under current federal law to take “prompt corrective action” in connection withrespect of depository institutions that do not meet minimum capital requirements. For this purpose,The FDIA includes the law establishesfollowing five capital categories for insured depository institution: “well-capitalized”,tiers: “well capitalized,” “adequately capitalized,” “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized” and “critically undercapitalized.” ToA depository institution’s capital tier will depend upon how its capital levels compare with various relevant capital measures and certain other factors, as established by regulation. The relevant capital measures are the total capital ratio, the Tier 1 capital ratio and the leverage ratio.

Currently, a depository institution will be considered(i) “well capitalized,” ancapitalized” if the institution must maintainhas a total risk-based capital ratio of 10%10.0% or greater, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6% or greater, a leverage capital ratio of 5%6.0% or greater, and a leverage ratio of 5.0% or greater, and is not be subject to any regulatory order agreement or written directive to meet and maintain a specific capital level for any capital measure. Anmeasure; (ii) “adequately capitalized” if the institution must havehas a total risk-based capital ratio of 8.0% or greater, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 4%4.0% or greater, and a leverage ratio of 4.0% or greater and is not “well capitalized”; (iii) “undercapitalized” if the institution has a total risk-based capital ratio that is less than 8.0%, a total risk- basedTier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 8%, andless than 4.0% or a leverage ratio of less than 4.0%; (iv) “significantly undercapitalized” if the institution has a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 4%.

If anless than 6.0%, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 3.0% or a leverage ratio of less than 3.0%; and (v) “critically undercapitalized” if the institution’s tangible equity is equal to or less than 2.0% of total assets. An institution failsmay be downgraded to, meet these capital requirements, progressively more severe restrictions are placed on the institution's operations, management and capital distributions, depending on theor deemed to be in, a capital category in which an institution is placed. Any institution that is “adequately capitalized” is, absent a waiver from the FDIC, prohibited from accepting or renewing brokered deposits. Any institution thatlower than indicated by its capital ratios if it is determined to be “undercapitalized,in an unsafe or unsound condition or if it receives an unsatisfactory examination rating with respect to certain matters. A bank’s capital category is determined solely for the purpose of applying prompt corrective action regulations, and the capital category may not constitute an accurate representation of the bank’s overall financial condition or prospects for other purposes.

The FDIA generally prohibits a depository institution from making any capital distributions (including payment of a dividend) or paying any management fee to its parent holding company if the depository institution would thereafter be “undercapitalized.“significantly undercapitalized,” or “critically undercapitalized” is“Undercapitalized” institutions are subject to growth limitations and are required to raise additionalsubmit a capital andrestoration plan. The agencies may not accept or renew brokered deposits.such a plan without determining, among other things, that the plan is based on realistic assumptions and is likely to succeed in restoring the depository institution’s capital. In addition, numerous mandatory supervisory actionsfor a capital restoration plan to be acceptable, the depository institution’s parent holding company must guarantee that the institution will comply with such capital restoration plan. The bank holding company must also provide appropriate assurances of performance. The aggregate liability of the parent holding company is limited to the lesser of (i) an amount equal to 5.0% of the depository institution’s total assets at the time it became undercapitalized and (ii) the amount which is necessary (or would have been necessary) to bring the institution into compliance with all capital standards applicable with respect to such institution as of the time it fails to comply with the plan. If a depository institution fails to submit an acceptable plan, it is treated as if it is “significantly undercapitalized.”

“Significantly undercapitalized” depository institutions may be subject to a number of requirements and restrictions, including orders to sell sufficient voting stock to become immediately applicable“adequately capitalized,” requirements to reduce total assets, and cessation of receipt of deposits from correspondent banks. “Critically undercapitalized” institutions are subject to the appointment of a receiver or conservator.
The appropriate federal banking agency may, under certain circumstances, reclassify a well-capitalized insured depository institution including, but not limited to, restrictions on growth, investment activities, capital distributions, and affiliate transactions.as adequately capitalized. The FDIA provides that an institution may be reclassified if the appropriate federal banking agenciesagency determines (after notice and opportunity for hearing) that the institution is in an unsafe or unsound condition or deems the institution to be engaging in an unsafe or unsound practice.

The appropriate agency is also may take any onepermitted to require an adequately capitalized or undercapitalized institution to comply with the supervisory provisions as if the institution were in the next lower category (but not treat a significantly undercapitalized institution as critically undercapitalized) based on supervisory information other than the capital levels of a numberthe institution.

Sterling believes that, as of discretionary supervisory actions against undercapitalized institutions, includingSeptember 30, 2014, its bank subsidiary, Sterling National Bank, was “well capitalized” based on the replacementaforementioned ratios. For further information regarding the capital ratios and leverage ratio of senior executive officersthe Company and directors. The agencies also may appoint a receiver or conservator for a savings association that is “critically undercapitalized”.the Bank, see the discussion under the section captioned “Capital and Liquidity” included in Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial

236

Table of Contents


At September 30, 2012, the capital of Provident Bank and Provident Municipal Bank exceeded all applicable capital requirements, and each met the requirements to be treated as a “well-capitalized” institution.

Deposit Insurance

Condition and Results of Operations” and Note 14. “Stockholder’s Equity - Regulatory Capital Requirements” in the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”, elsewhere in this report.

Basel III Capital Rules
In July 2013, the Company’s and the Bank’s primary federal regulators, the FRB and the OCC, respectively, approved final rules known as the “Basel III Capital Rules” that substantially revise the risk-based capital and leverage capital requirements applicable to bank holding companies and depository institutions with total consolidated assets of $500 million or more, including the Company and the Bank. The Basel III Capital Rules address the components of capital and other issues affecting the numerator in banking institutions’ regulatory capital ratios. 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 Basel III Capital Rules will come into effect for the Company and the Bank on January 1, 2015 (subject to a phase-in period).
The FDIC insures deposit accountsBasel III Capital Rules, among other things, (i) introduce as a new capital measure “Common Equity Tier 1” (“CET1”), (ii) specify that Tier 1 capital consists of CET1 and “Additional Tier 1 capital” instruments meeting specified requirements, (iii) define CET1 narrowly by requiring that most adjustments to regulatory capital measures be made to CET1 and not to the other components of capital and (iv) expand the scope of the adjustments as compared to existing regulations. CET1 capital consists of common stock instruments that meet the eligibility criteria in Provident Bankthe final rules, retained earnings, accumulated other comprehensive income and Provident Municipal Bank generally upcommon equity Tier 1 minority interest.
When fully phased-in on January 1, 2019, Basel III Capital Rules require banking organizations to maintain (i) a maximumminimum ratio of $250,000 per ownership categoryCET1 to risk-weighted assets of each separately-insured depositor. As FDIC-insured depositoryat least 4.5%, plus a 2.5% “capital conservation buffer” (which is added to the 4.5% CET1 ratio as that buffer is phased-in, effectively resulting in a minimum ratio of CET1 to risk-weighted assets of at least 7.0% upon full implementation), (ii) a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 6.0%, plus the capital conservation buffer (which is added to the 6.0% Tier 1 capital ratio as that buffer is phased-in, effectively resulting in a minimum Tier 1 capital ratio of 8.5% upon full implementation), (iii) a minimum ratio of total capital (that is, Tier 1 plus Tier 2 capital) to risk-weighted assets of at least 8.0%, plus the capital conservation buffer (which is added to the 8.0% total capital ratio as that buffer is phased-in, effectively resulting in a minimum total capital ratio of 10.5% upon full implementation) and (iv) as a newly adopted international standard, a minimum leverage ratio of 4.0%, calculated as the ratio of Tier 1 capital to adjusted average consolidated assets.
The aforementioned capital conservation buffer is designed to absorb losses during periods of economic stress. Banking institutions Provident Bankwith a ratio of CET1 to risk-weighted assets above the minimum but below the conservation buffer will face limitations on the payment of dividends, common stock repurchases and Provident Municipal Bank are requireddiscretionary cash payments to pay deposit insurance premiumsexecutive officers based on the risk each institution posesamount of the shortfall.

With respect to the Bank, the Basel III Capital Rules also revise the “prompt corrective action” regulations pursuant to Section 38 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Fund. Currently,Act, by (i) introducing a CET1 ratio requirement at each level (other than critically undercapitalized), with the annual FDIC assessment rate rangesrequired CET1 ratio being 6.5% for well-capitalized status; (ii) increasing the minimum Tier 1 capital ratio requirement for each category, with the minimum Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio for well-capitalized status being 8.0% (as compared to the current 6.0%); and (iii) eliminating the current provision that provides that a bank with a composite supervisory rating of 1 may have a 3.0% leverage ratio and still be well-capitalized.
Management believes that, as of September 30, 2014, the Company and the Bank would meet all capital adequacy requirements under the Basel III Capital Rules on a fully phased-in basis if such requirements were currently effective. Requirements to maintain higher levels of capital or to maintain higher levels of liquid assets could adversely impact the Company’s net income.

Dividend Restrictions
The Company depends on funds maintained or generated by its subsidiaries, principally the Bank, for its cash requirements. Various legal restrictions limit the extent to which the Bank can pay dividends or make other distributions to the Company. All national banks are limited in the payment of dividends without the approval of the OCC to an amount not to exceed the net profits (as defined by OCC regulations) for that year-to-date combined with its retained net profits for the preceding two calendar years, less any required transfers to surplus. Federal law also prohibits national banks from $0.025paying dividends that would be greater than the bank’s undivided profits after deducting statutory bad debt in excess of the bank’s allowance for loan losses. Under the foregoing restrictions, and while maintaining its “well capitalized” status, as of September 30, 2014, the Bank could pay dividends of approximately $47.9 million to $0.45 (not including the Company, without obtaining regulatory approval. This is not necessarily indicative of amounts that may be paid or are available to be paid in future periods.

7

Table of Contents




Under the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 (“FDICIA”), a depository institution, debt adjustment) per $100such as the Bank, may not pay dividends if payment would cause it to become undercapitalized or if it is already undercapitalized. The payment of dividends by the Company and the Bank may also be affected or limited by other factors, such as the requirement to maintain adequate capital. The appropriate federal regulatory authority is authorized to determine under certain circumstances relating to the financial condition of a bank holding company or a bank that the payment of dividends would be an unsafe or unsound practice and to prohibit such payment. The appropriate federal regulatory authorities have indicated that paying dividends that deplete a banking organization’s capital base to an inadequate level would be an unsafe and unsound banking practice and that banking organizations should generally pay dividends only out of current operating earnings.

Source of Strength Doctrine
FRB policy and federal law require bank holding companies to act as a source of financial and managerial strength to their subsidiary banks. Under this requirement, the Company is expected to commit resources to support the Bank, including at times when the Company may not be in a financial position to provide such resources. Any capital loans by a bank holding company to any of its subsidiary banks are subordinate in right of payment to depositors and to certain other indebtedness of such subsidiary banks.

Deposit Insurance
Substantially all of the institution's assessment base, based ondeposits of the institution's relative riskBank are insured up to applicable limits by the Deposit Insurance Fund as measured(“DIF”) of the FDIC and the Bank is subject to deposit insurance assessments to maintain the DIF. Due to the decline in economic conditions, the deposit insurance provided by the institution'sFDIC per account owner was raised to $250,000 for all types of accounts. That change, initially intended to be temporary, was made permanent by the Dodd-Frank Act.

As insurer, the FDIC is authorized to conduct examinations of, and to require reporting by, DIF-insured institutions. It also may prohibit any DIF-insured institution from engaging in any activity the FDIC determines by regulation or order to pose a serious threat to the DIF. The FDIC also has the authority to take enforcement actions against insured institutions. Under the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, as amended (“FDIA”), the FDIC may terminate deposit insurance upon a finding that the institution has engaged in unsafe and 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 FDIC.

Under the FDIC’s risk-based assessment system, insured institutions are assigned to one of four risk categories based upon supervisory evaluations, regulatory capital positionlevel, and certain other supervisoryfactors, with less risky institutions paying lower assessments. An institution’s assessment rate depends upon the category to which it is assigned and certain other factors. Historically, assessment rates ranged from seven to 77.5 basis points of each institution’s deposit assessment base. On February 7, 2011, as required by the Dodd-Frank Act, the FDIC published a final rule to revise the deposit insurance assessment system. The rule, which took effect April 1, 2011, changed the assessment base used for calculating deposit insurance assessments from deposits to total assets less tangible (Tier 1) capital. Since the new base is larger than the previous base, the FDIC also lowered assessment rates so that the rule would not significantly alter the total amount of revenue collected from the industry. The range of adjusted assessment rates is now 2.5 to 45 basis points of the new assessment base.

As the DIF reserve ratio grows, the rate schedule will be adjusted downward. Additionally, an institution must pay an additional premium equal to 50 basis points on every dollar (above 3% of an institution’s Tier 1 capital) of long-term, unsecured debt held that was issued by another insured depository institution (excluding debt guaranteed under the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program). The FDIC also has the authority to raise or lower assessment rates, on insured deposits, subject to limits, and to impose special additional assessments.

The Dodd-Frank Act also temporarily increases the maximum amount of federal deposit insurance coverage for non-interest bearing transaction accounts to an unlimited amount from December 31, 2010 through December 31, 2012. The Dodd-Frank Act also broadens the base for FDIC deposit insurance assessments. Assessments are now based on the average consolidated total assets less tangible equity of an insured depository institution. In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act raisesincreased the minimum designated reservetarget DIF ratio which the FDIC is required to set each year for the Deposit Insurance Fund,from 1.15% of estimated insured deposits to 1.35% and requires thatof estimated insured deposits. The FDIC must seek to achieve the Deposit Insurance Fund meets that minimum1.35% ratio by September 30, 2020. It eliminates the requirement that the FDIC pay dividends to depository institutions when the reserve ratio exceeds certain thresholds. The FDIC is required to offset the effect of the increased reserve ratio for depositoryInsured institutions with assets of less than $10 billion.billion or more, as expected the Bank will reach after the completion of the HVB Merger, are supposed to fund the increase. The Dodd-Frank Act eliminated the 1.5% maximum fund ratio, leaving it, instead, to the discretion of the FDIC. The FDIC has issued regulations to implement these provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act. It has, in addition, establishedrecently exercised that discretion by establishing a higher reservelong-range fund ratio of 2% as a long-term goal beyond what is required by statute. There is no implementation deadline for, which could result in our paying higher deposit insurance premiums in the 2% ratio.future.

In addition, the FDIC collects funds from insured institutions sufficient to pay interest on debt obligations of thedeposit insurance expense totaled $5.0 million, $2.4 million and $2.5 million in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. FDIC deposit insurance expense includes deposit insurance assessments and Financing Corporation ("FICO"(“FICO”). assessments related to outstanding bonds issued by FICO is a government-sponsored entity that was formedin the late 1980s to borrowrecapitalize the money necessarynow defunct Federal Savings & Loan Insurance Corporation. The FICO assessments will continue until the bonds mature in 2017 to carry out the closing and ultimate disposition of failed thrift institutions by the Resolution Trust Corporation. For the quarter ended September 30, 2012, the annualized FICO assessment was equal to $0.01 for each $100 of insured domestic deposits maintained at an institution.2019.

Regulation of Provident Bank

Business Activities. As a federal savings association, Provident Bank derives its deposit, lending and investment powers from the Home Owners' Loan Act (the “HOLA”) and the regulations of the OCC. Under these laws and regulations, Provident Bank may offer any type of deposit accounts, make or invest in mortgage loans secured by residential and commercial real estate, make and invest in commercial and consumer loans, certain types of debt securities and certain other loans and assets, subject in certain cases to certain limits. Provident Bank also may establish and operate subsidiaries that engage in activities permissible for Provident Bank, as well as service corporation subsidiaries that engage in activities not permissible for Provident Bank to engage in directly (such as real estate investment, and securities and insurance brokerage). Pursuant to this authority, Provident Bank operates certain subsidiaries, including Provest Services Corp. I, which holds an investment in a limited partnership that operates an assisted living facility; Provest Services Corp. II, a licensed insurance agency, which contracts with LPL Financial Corp. in order to offer annuities and insurance products to customers of Provident Bank. Provident Bank also controls Provident REIT, Inc. and WSB Funding Corp. to hold residential and commercial real estate loans and the Bank maintains several corporations which hold foreclosed properties acquired by Provident Bank. Certain of Provident Bank's subsidiaries are subject to separate regulatory requirements, such as those applicable to insurance agencies and investment advisors. Hardenburgh Abstract Company Inc., a title insurance agency; Provident Risk Management Inc., a captive insurance company insuring Provident affiliated risk; and Hudson Valley Investment Advisors, LLC (HVIA), an investment advisory firm are subsidiaries of Provident Bancorp. However, on November 16, 2012 substantially all of the assets of HVIA were sold to a nonaffiliated party.

Qualified Thrift Lender Test. As a federal savings association, Provident Bank must meet the qualified thrift lender (“QTL”) test. Under the QTL test, Provident Bank must maintain at least 65% of its “portfolio assets” in “qualified thrift investments” in at least nine months of the most recent 12-month period. “Portfolio assets” generally means total assets of a savings association, less the sum of certain specified liquid assets, goodwill and other intangible assets, and the value of property used in the conduct of the savings association's business. “Qualified thrift investments” are primarily mortgage loans and securities, and other investments related to housing, home equity loans, credit card loans, education loans and other consumer loans up to a certain percentage of assets. Provident Bank also may satisfy the QTL test by qualifying as a “domestic building and loan association” as defined in the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. If Provident Bank were to fail the QTL test, it would be immediately required to operate under specified restrictions.


248

Table of Contents




Safety and Soundness Regulations
In accordance with the FDIA, the federal banking agencies adopted guidelines establishing general standards relating to internal controls, information systems, internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate risk exposure, asset growth, asset quality, earnings, compensation, fees and benefits. In general, the guidelines require, among other things, appropriate systems and practices to identify and manage the risks and exposures specified in the guidelines. The guidelines prohibit excessive compensation as an unsafe and unsound practice and describe compensation as excessive when the amounts paid are unreasonable or disproportionate to the services performed by an executive officer, employee, director or principal shareholder. In addition, regulations adopted by the federal banking agencies authorize the agencies to require that an institution that has been given notice that it is not satisfying any of such safety and soundness standards to submit a compliance plan. If, after being so notified, the institution fails to submit an acceptable compliance plan or fails in any material respect to implement an accepted compliance plan, the agency must issue an order directing corrective actions and may issue an order directing other actions of the types to which an undercapitalized institution is subject under the “prompt corrective action” provisions of FDIA. If the institution fails to comply with such an order, the agency may seek to enforce such order in judicial proceedings and to impose civil money penalties.

Incentive Compensation
The Dodd-Frank Act requires the federal bank regulatory agencies and the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) to establish joint regulations or guidelines prohibiting incentive-based payment arrangements at specified regulated entities, such as the Company and the Bank, having at least $1 billion in total assets that encourage inappropriate risks by providing an executive officer, employee, director or principal shareholder with excessive compensation, fees, or benefits or that could lead to material financial loss to the entity. In addition, these regulators must establish regulations or guidelines requiring enhanced disclosure to regulators of incentive-based compensation arrangements. The agencies proposed such regulations in April 2011, but the regulations have not been finalized. If the regulations are adopted in the form initially proposed, they will impose limitations on the manner in which the Company may structure compensation for its executives.

In June 2010, the FRB, OCC and FDIC issued comprehensive final guidance on incentive compensation policies intended to ensure that the incentive compensation policies of banking organizations do not undermine the safety and soundness of such organizations by encouraging excessive risk-taking. The guidance, which covers all employees that have the ability to materially affect the risk profile of an organization, either individually or as part of a group, is based upon the key principles that a banking organization’s incentive compensation arrangements should (i) provide incentives that do not encourage risk-taking beyond the organization’s ability to effectively identify and manage risks, (ii) be compatible with effective internal controls and risk management, and (iii) be supported by strong corporate governance, including active and effective oversight by the organization’s board of directors. These three principles are incorporated into the proposed joint compensation regulations under the Dodd-Frank Act, discussed above.

The FRB will review, as part of the regular, risk-focused examination process, the incentive compensation arrangements of banking organizations, such as the Company, that are not “large, complex banking organizations.” These reviews will be tailored to each organization based on the scope and complexity of the organization’s activities and the prevalence of incentive compensation arrangements. The findings of the supervisory initiatives will be included in reports of examination. Deficiencies will be incorporated into the organization’s supervisory ratings, which can affect the organization’s ability to make acquisitions and take other actions. Enforcement actions may be taken against a banking organization if its incentive compensation arrangements, or related risk-management control or governance processes, pose a risk to the organization’s safety and soundness and the organization is not taking prompt and effective measures to correct the deficiencies.

Loans to One Borrower. Provident
The Bank generally may not make loans or extend credit to a single or related group of borrowers in excess of 15% of unimpaired capital and surplus. An additional amount may be loaned, up to 10% of unimpaired capital and surplus, if the loan is secured by readily marketable collateral, which generally does not include real estate. As of September 30, 2012, Provident2014, the Bank was in compliance with the loans-to-one-borrower limitations.

Community Reinvestment Act
The Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 (“CRA”) requires depository institutions to assist in meeting the credit needs of their market areas consistent with safe and sound banking practice. Under the CRA, each depository institution is required to help meet the credit needs of its market areas by, among other things, providing credit to low- and moderate-income individuals and communities. Depository institutions are periodically examined for compliance with the CRA and are assigned ratings that must be publicly disclosed. In order for a financial holding company to commence any new activity permitted by the BHC Act, or to acquire any company engaged in any new activity permitted by the BHC Act, each insured depository institution subsidiary of the financial holding company must have received

9

Table of Contents




a rating of at least “satisfactory” in its most recent examination under the CRA. Furthermore, banking regulators take into account CRA ratings when considering approval of certain applications. The Bank received a rating of “satisfactory” in its most recent CRA exam.

Financial Privacy
The federal banking regulators adopted rules that limit the ability of banks and other financial institutions to disclose non-public information about consumers to nonaffiliated third parties. These limitations require disclosure of privacy policies to consumers and, in some circumstances, allow consumers to prevent disclosure of certain personal information to a nonaffiliated third party. These regulations affect how consumer information is transmitted through diversified financial companies and conveyed to outside vendors.

The Bank is also subject to regulatory guidelines establishing standards for safeguarding customer information. These guidelines describe the federal banking agencies’ expectations for the creation, implementation and maintenance of an information security program, which would include administrative, technical and physical safeguards appropriate to the size and complexity of the institution and the nature and scope of its activities.

Anti-Money Laundering and the USA Patriot Act
A major focus of governmental policy on financial institutions in recent years has been aimed at combating money laundering and terrorist financing. The USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 (the “USA Patriot Act”) substantially broadened the scope of United States anti-money laundering laws and regulations by imposing significant new compliance and due diligence obligations of financial institutions, creating new crimes and penalties and expanding the extra-territorial jurisdiction of the United States. Failure of a financial institution to maintain and implement adequate programs to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, or to comply with all of the relevant laws or regulations, could have serious legal and reputational consequences for the institution, including causing applicable bank regulatory authorities not to approve merger or acquisition transactions when regulatory approval is required or to prohibit such transactions even if approval is not required.

Stress Testing
On October 9, 2012, the FDIC and the FRB issued final rules requiring certain large insured depository institutions and bank holding companies to conduct annual capital-adequacy stress tests. Recognizing that banks and their parent holding companies may have different primary federal regulators, the FDIC and FRB have attempted to ensure that the standards of the final rules are consistent and comparable in the areas of scope of application, scenarios, data collection, reporting, and disclosure. To implement section 165(i) of the Dodd-Frank Act, the rules would apply to FDIC-insured state non-member banks and bank holding companies with total consolidated assets of more than $10 billion (“covered institutions”). While the Bank currently has less than $10 billion in assets, after completion of the HVB Merger, the Bank’s total assets could exceed $10 billion. The final rule requirement for public disclosure of a summary of the stress testing results for $10 billion to $50 billion covered institutions is being implemented starting with the 2014 stress test, with the disclosure occurring by June 30, 2015. The final rules define a stress test as a process to assess the potential impact of economic and financial scenarios on the consolidated earnings, losses and capital of the covered institution over a set planning horizon, taking into account the current condition of the covered institution and its risks, exposures, strategies and activities.
Under the rules, each covered institution with between $10 billion and $50 billion in assets would be required to conduct annual stress tests using the bank’s and the bank holding company’s financial data as of September 30 of that year to assess the potential impact of different scenarios on the consolidated earnings and capital of that bank and its holding company and certain related items over a nine-quarter forward-looking planning horizon, taking into account all relevant exposures and activities. On or before March 31 of each year, each covered institution, including the Bank and the Company, would be required to report to the FDIC and the FRB, respectively, in the manner and form prescribed in the rules, the results of the stress tests conducted by the covered institution during the immediately preceding year. Based on the information provided by a covered institution in the required reports to the FDIC and the FRB, as well as other relevant information, the FDIC and FRB would conduct an analysis of the quality of the covered institution’s stress test processes and related results. The FDIC and FRB envision that feedback concerning such analysis would be provided to a covered institution through the supervisory process. Consistent with the requirements of the Dodd-Frank Act, the rule would require each covered institution to publish a summary of the results of its annual stress tests within 90 days of the required date for submitting its stress test report to the FDIC and the FRB.

Volcker Rule
The Dodd-Frank Act amended the BHC Act to require the federal bank regulatory agencies to adopt rules that prohibit banks and their affiliates from engaging in proprietary trading and investing in and sponsoring certain unregistered investmentcompanies (defined as hedge funds and private equity funds), commonly referred to as the “Volcker Rule.”  The Volcker Rule also requires covered banking entities to implement certain compliance programs, and the complexity and rigor of such programs is determined based on the asset size of the covered company. Upon completion of the HVB Merger, we will be subject to heightened compliance requirements as a covered

10

Table of Contents




banking entity with over $10 billion in assets. The rules were effective April 1, 2014, but the conformance period has been extended from its statutory end date of July 21, 2014 until July 21, 2015. We continue to evaluate the impact of the Volcker Rule and the final rules adopted by the Federal Reserve thereunder, and whether it will require the Bank to divest any securities in its portfolio as a result of the Volcker Rule. The Bank may incur costs to adopt additional policies and systems to ensure compliance with the Volcker Rule.

Durbin Amendment
The Dodd-Frank Act included provisions which restrict interchange fees to those which are “reasonable and proportionate” for certain debit card issuers and limits the ability of networks and issuers to restrict debit card transaction routing. This statutory provision is known as the “Durbin Amendment.”  The Federal Reserve issued final rules implementing the Durbin Amendment on June 29, 2011.  In the final rules, interchange fees for debit card transactions were capped at $0.21 plus five basis points in order to be eligible for a safe harbor such that the fee is conclusively determined to be reasonable and proportionate.  The interchange fee restrictions contained in the Durbin Amendment, and the rules promulgated thereunder, only apply to debit card issuers with $10 billion or more in total consolidated assets, which we expect the Bank will reach after the completion of the HVB Merger.

Transactions with Affiliates. Provident
Transactions between the Bank is subject to restrictions on transactions withand its affiliates that are regulated by the same as those applicable to commercial banksFRB under Sectionssections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act as implementedand related FRB regulations. These regulations limit the types and amounts of covered transactions engaged in by the Federal Reserve's Regulation W, as well as certain additional restrictions imposedBank and generally require those transactions to be on federal savings associations by the Home Owners' Loan Act.an arm’s-length basis. The term “affiliate” under these laws meansis defined to mean any company that controls or is under common control with a savings associationthe Bank and includes Provident Bancorpthe Company and its non-bank subsidiaries. Transactions between Provident Bank and certain affiliates are restricted to an aggregate percentage“Covered transactions” include a loan or extension of Provident Bank's capital, and certain transactions must be collateralized with certain specified assets. The HOLA further prohibitscredit, as well as a savings association from lending to any affiliate that is engaged in activities not permissible for a bank holding company and from purchasing or investing inpurchase of securities issued by anyan affiliate, other than with respecta purchase of assets (unless otherwise exempted by the FRB) from the affiliate, certain derivative transactions that create a credit exposure to sharesan affiliate, the acceptance of securities issued by the affiliate as collateral for a loan, and the issuance of a subsidiary. Permissible transactionsguarantee, acceptance or letter of credit on behalf of an affiliate. In general, these regulations require that any such transaction by the Bank (or its subsidiaries) with affiliatesan affiliate must be secured by designated amounts of specified collateral and must be limited to certain thresholds on terms that are at least as favorable to the savings association as comparable transactions with non-affiliates.an individual and aggregate basis.

Provident BankFederal law also is restricted in its abilitylimits the Bank’s authority to extend credit to its directors, executive officers and 10% shareholders, as well as to entities controlled by such persons, to the same extent as such restrictions apply to commercial banks. Extensionspersons. Among other things, extensions of credit to insiders must (i)are required to be made on terms that are substantially the same as, and follow credit underwriting procedures that are not less stringent than, those prevailing for comparable transactions with unaffiliated persons; (ii)persons. Also, the terms of such extensions of credit may not involve more than the normal risk of repayment or present other unfavorable features;features and (iii)may not exceed certain limitations on the amount of credit extended to such persons, individually and in the aggregate. In addition, extensionsaggregate, which limits are based, in part, on the amount of credit in excess of certain limits must be approved by Provident Bank's Board of Directors.the Bank’s capital.

The Dodd-Frank Act imposes further restrictions on transactions with affiliates and extensions of credit to executive officers, director and principal shareholders, by, among other things, expanding the types of transactions covered by the law to include securities lending, repurchase agreement and derivatives activities with affiliates. These changes became effective on July 21, 2012. See “Regulation - Financial Reform Legislation”.

Safety and Soundness Regulations. Federal law requires each federal banking agency to prescribe certain safety and soundness standards for all insured depository institutions. These standards relate to, among other things, internal controls, information systems, and audit systems; loan documentation; credit underwriting; interest rate risk exposure; asset growth; compensation; and other operational and managerial standards as the agency deems appropriate. The federal banking agencies adopted Interagency Guidelines Establishing Standards for Safety and Soundness to implement the safety and soundness requirements of federal law. The guidelines set forth the safety and soundness standards that the federal banking agencies use to identify and address problems at insured depository institutions before capital becomes impaired. If the appropriate federal banking agency determines that an institution fails to meet any standard prescribed by the guidelines, the agency may require the institution to submit to the agency an acceptable plan to achieve compliance with the standard. If a deficiency persists, the agency must issue an order that requires the institution to correct the deficiency, in addition to taking other statutorily-mandated or discretionary actions.

Enforcement. The OCC has primary enforcement responsibility over federal savings associations such as Provident Bank, and has the authority to bring enforcement action against all “institution-affiliated parties,” including controlling stockholders, agents, and attorneys, appraisers, and accountants who knowingly or recklessly participate in wrongful action likely to have a significant adverse effect on an insured institution. Formal enforcement action may range from the issuance of a capital directive or cease and desist order, to removal of officers or directors of the institution, receivership, conservatorship, or the termination of deposit insurance. Civil money penalties may be imposed for a wide range of violations and actions. The FDIC also has the authority to recommend to the OCC that enforcement action be taken with respect to a particular savings association. If action is not taken by the OCC, the FDIC has authority to take action under specified circumstances.

Community Reinvestment Act and Fair Lending Laws. All savings associations have a responsibility under the Community Reinvestment Act (“CRA”) and related regulations of the OCC to help meet the credit needs of their communities, including low-and moderate-income neighborhoods, consistent with safe and sound operations. The OCC is required to assess the savings association's record of compliance with the CRA, and to assign one of four possible ratings to an institution's CRA performance, including “outstanding,” “satisfactory,” “needs to improve,” and “substantial noncompliance.” In addition, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and the Fair Housing Act prohibit lenders from discriminating in their lending practices on the basis of characteristics specified in those statutes. A savings association's failure to comply with the provisions of the CRA could, at a

25

Table of Contents

minimum, result in regulatory restrictions on its activities. The failure to comply with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and the Fair Housing Act could result in enforcement actions by the OCC, as well as other federal regulatory agencies and the Department of Justice. Provident Bank received an “satisfactory” Community Reinvestment Act rating in its most recent federal examination.

Federal Home Loan Bank System. Provident
The Bank is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank System, which consists of 12 regional Federal Home Loan Banks. The Federal Home Loan Bank System provides a central credit facility primarily for member institutions. As a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Provident(“FHLBNY”), the Bank is required to acquire and hold shares of capital stock inof the Federal Home Loan Bank of New YorkFHLBNY in an amount at least equal to 1%the sum of the aggregate principal amountmembership stock purchase requirement, determined on an annual basis at the end of its unpaideach calendar year, and the activity-based stock purchase requirement, determined on a daily basis. For the Bank, the membership stock purchase requirement is 0.15% of the Mortgage-Related Assets, as defined by the FHLBNY, which consists principally of residential mortgage loans and similar obligations atmortgage-backed securities, held by the beginningBank. The activity-based stock purchase requirement is equal to the sum of: (1) a specified percentage ranging from 4.0% to 5.0%, which for the Bank is 4.5%, of each year, or 1/20 of itsoutstanding borrowings from the Federal Home LoanFHLBNY; (2) a specified percentage ranging from 4.0% to 5.0%, which for the Bank whichever is greater.inapplicable, of the outstanding principal balance of Acquired Member Assets, as defined by the FHLBNY, and delivery commitments for Acquired Member Assets; (3) a specified dollar amount related to certain off-balance sheet items, which for the Bank is inapplicable; and (4) a specified percentage ranging from 0% to 5%, which for the Bank is inapplicable, of the carrying value on the FHLBNY’s balance sheet of derivative contracts between the FHLBNY and the Bank. The FHLBNY can adjust the specified percentages and dollar amount from time to time within the ranges established by the FHLBNY capital plan. As of September 30, 2012, Provident2014, the Bank was in compliance with thisthe minimum stock ownership requirement.

OtherFederal Reserve System
FRB regulations require depository institutions to maintain cash reserves against their transaction accounts (primarily NOW and demand deposit accounts). A reserve of 3% is to be maintained against aggregate transaction accounts between $13.3 million and $89.0 million (subject to adjustment by the FRB) plus a reserve of 10% (subject to adjustment by the FRB between 8% and 14%) against that portion of total transaction accounts in excess of $89.0 million. The first $13.3 million of otherwise reservable balances (subject to adjustment by the FRB) is exempt from the reserve requirements. The Bank is in compliance with the foregoing requirements.



11





Consumer Protection Regulations. Provident
The Bank is subject to federal consumer protection statutes and regulations promulgated under thesethose laws, including, but not limited to the:the following:

Truth-In-Lending Act and Regulation Z, governing disclosures of credit terms to consumer borrowers;
Home Mortgage Disclosure Act and Regulation C, requiring financial institutions to provide certain information about home mortgage and refinanced loans;
Equal Credit Opportunity Act and Regulation B, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, creed, or other prohibited factors in extending credit;
Fair Credit Reporting Act and Regulation V, governing the provision of consumer information to credit reporting agencies and the use of consumer information; and
Fair Debt Collection Act, governing the manner in which consumer debts may be collected by collection agencies;agencies.

Deposit operations are also subject to:

The Truth in Savings Act and Regulation DD, which requires disclosure of deposit terms to consumers;
Regulation CC, which relates to the availability of deposit funds to consumers;
The Right to Financial Privacy Act, which imposes a duty to maintain the confidentiality of consumer financial records and prescribes procedures for complying with administrative subpoenas of financial records; and
Electronic Funds Transfer Act and Regulation E, governing automatic deposits to, and withdrawals from, deposit accounts and customers'customers’ rights and liabilities arising from the use of automated teller machines and other electronic banking services.

ProvidentIn addition, the Bank also ismay be subject to federalcertain state laws protectingand regulations designed to protect consumers.
Many of the confidentialityforegoing laws and regulations are subject to change resulting from the provisions in the Dodd-Frank Act, which in many cases calls for revisions to implementing regulations. In addition, oversight responsibilities of these and other consumer protection laws and regulations will, in large measure, transfer from the Bank’s primary regulators to the CFPB, which will have supervisory authority over the Bank if, as anticipated, the Bank’s assets exceed $10 billion after the completion of the HVB Merger. We cannot predict the effect that being regulated by the CFPB, or any new or revised regulations that may result from its establishment, will have on our businesses.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
Created under the Dodd-Frank Act, and given extensive implementation and enforcement powers over all banks with over $10 billion in assets, which the Bank expects to reach with the HVB Merger, the CFPB has broad rulemaking authority for a wide range of consumer financial recordslaws that apply to all banks including, among other things, the authority to prohibit “unfair, deceptive, or abusive” acts and limitingpractices. Abusive acts or practices are defined as those that (1) materially interfere with a consumer’s ability to understand a term or condition of a consumer financial product or service, or (2) take unreasonable advantage of a consumer’s (a) lack of financial savvy, (b) inability to protect himself in the abilityselection or use of consumer financial products or services, or (c) reasonable reliance on a covered entity to act in the institutionconsumer’s interests. The CFPB has the authority to share non-public personal information with third parties. Finally, Provident Bank is subjectinvestigate possible violations of federal consumer financial law, hold hearings and commence civil litigation. The CFPB can issue cease-and-desist orders against banks and other entities that violate consumer financial laws. The CFPB may also institute a civil action against an entity in violation of federal consumer financial law in order to extensive anti-money laundering provisions and requirements, which require the institution to have in placeimpose a comprehensive customer identification program andcivil penalty or an anti-money laundering program and procedures. These laws and regulations also prohibit financial institutions from engaging in business with foreign shell banks; require financial institutions to have due diligence procedures and, in some cases, enhanced due diligence procedures for foreign correspondent and private banking accounts; and improve information sharing between financial institutions and the U.S. government. Provident Bank has established policies and procedures intended to comply with these provisions.

Possible Charter Conversion. The Company currently is considering the possibility of converting Provident Bank from a federal savings bank to a national bank. At present, there is no assurance when, or if, a conversion will ultimately occur. Although, as a national bank, Provident Bank would no longer need to satisfy the QTL test, its powers to conduct its business and the regulatory restrictions on those power otherwise would generally remain the same. In addition, Provident Bancorp and Provident Bank would continue to be regulated by the Federal Reserve and the OCC, respectively. Accordingly, we believe that even if the conversion occurs it will not materially affect the business or operations of either Provident Bancorp or Provident Bank.

Recent Regulatory Initiatives

TLGP. Provident Bancorp and Provident Bank decided to opt-out of the TLGP effective July 1, 2010. As a result, Provident Bank's non-interest-bearing transaction deposits accounts (such as business checking accounts), interest bearing transaction accounts, and IOLTA accounts were insured up to $250,000 from July 1, 2010 through December 30, 2010. From December 31, 2010 through December 31, 2012, non-interest bearing transaction accounts and IOLTA accounts are fully insured beyond the $250,000 limit under the Dodd-Frank Act. Beginning January 1, 2013, insurance coverage for non-interest bearing transaction accounts and IOLTA accounts will revert to the standard FDIC limit of $250,000, unless the U.S. Congress passes further legislation extending the unlimited coverage before December 31, 2012, which does not appear likely at this time.

In addition, the FDIC guaranteed all newly issued senior unsecured debt (e.g., promissory notes, unsubordinated unsecured notes and commercial paper) up to prescribed limits issued by participating entities between October 14, 2008 and October 31, 2009. For eligible debt issued by that date, the FDIC provides the guarantee coverage until the earlier of the maturity date of the debt or December 31, 2012. Provident Bank issued $51.5 million senior unsecured debt in a pooled security in February 2009. This debt matured in February 2012. Provident prepaid $1.00 of insurance premiums for each $100 (on a per annum basis) of debt that was guaranteed.injunction.


26

Table of Contents

Financial Reform Legislation

On July 21, 2010, the President signed the Dodd-Frank Act into law. This law is significantly changing the current bank regulatory structure and affecting the lending, deposit, investment, trading and operating activities of financial institutions and their holding companies, including Provident Bank and Provident Bancorp. It requires various federal agencies to adopt a broad range of new implementing rules and regulations, and to prepare numerous studies and reports for Congress. The federal agencies are given significant discretion in drafting the implementing rules and regulations, and consequently, many of the details and much of the impact of the Act may not be known for many months or years.

One change that has been particularly significant to Provident Bancorp and Provident Bank is the abolition of the OTS, their historical federal financial institution regulator, on July 21, 2011. Supervision and regulation of Provident Bancorp have moved to the Federal Reserve and supervision and regulation of Provident Bank have moved to the OCC. The HOLA remains the main statute applicable to Provident Bancorp and Provident Bank, but it has been amended by the Dodd-Frank Act, as described below and by the implementing regulations that are being adopted and interpreted by the Federal Reserve and the OCC, respectively.

The Dodd-Frank Act contains a number of provisions intended to strengthen capital. For example, the federal banking agencies are directed to establish minimum leverage and risk-based capital requirements that are at least as stringent as those currently in effect. Provident Bancorp for the first time will be subject to consolidated capital requirements and must to serve as a source of strength to Provident Bank.

The Dodd-Frank Act also expands the affiliate transaction rules in Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act to broaden the definition of affiliate and to apply to securities lending, repurchase agreement and derivatives activities that Provident Bank may have with an affiliate, as well as to strengthen collateral requirements and limit Federal Reserve exemptive authority. Also, the definition of “extension of credit” for transactions with executive officers, directors and principal shareholders is being expanded to include credit exposure arising from a derivative transaction, a repurchase or reverse repurchase agreement and a securities lending or borrowing transaction. These expansions became effective on July 21, 2012. At this time, we do not anticipate that being subject to any of these provisions will have a material effect on Provident Bancorp or Provident Bank.

The Dodd-Frank Act also contains provisions that expand the insurance assessment base and increase the scope of deposit insurance coverage. See “Regulation-Deposit Insurance”.

The Dodd-Frank Act requires publicly traded companies to give stockholders a non-binding vote on executive compensation and so-called “golden parachute” payments, and authorizes the Securities and Exchange Commission to promulgate rules that would allow stockholders to nominate their own candidates for election as directors using a company's proxy materials. The legislation also directs the federal financial institution regulatory agencies to promulgate rules prohibiting excessive compensation being paid to financial institution executives.

The Dodd-Frank Act also created a new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), which took over responsibility over the principal federal consumer protection laws, such as the Truth in Lending Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act and the Truth in Saving Act, among others, on July 21, 2011. Institutions that have assets of $10 billion or less, such as the Bank, will continue to be supervised in this area by their primary federal regulators (in the case of Provident Bank, the OCC). The Act also gives the CFPB expanded data collecting powers for fair lending purposes for both small business and mortgage loans, as well as expanded authority to prevent unfair, deceptive and abusive practices. The Dodd-Frank Act also provides that the same standards for federal preemption of state laws apply to both national banks and federal savings banks. As a result it is likely the Bank would be subject to a wider array of State laws going forward.

The scope and impact of many of the Dodd-Frank Act's provisions will be determined over time as regulations are issued and become effective. As a result, we cannot predict the ultimate impact of the Act on Provident Bancorp or Provident Bank at this time, including the extent to which it could increase costs or limit our ability to pursue business opportunities in an efficient manner, or otherwise adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Nor can we predict the impact or substance of other future legislation or regulation. However, it is expected that they at a minimum will increase our operating and compliance costs.


2712

Table of Contents





ITEM 1A.Risk Factors

Changes in laws, government regulation and monetary policy may have a material effect on our results of operations
Financial institutions are the subject of significant legislative and regulatory laws, rules and regulations and may be subject to further additional legislation, rulemaking or regulation in the future, none of which is within our control. Significant new laws, rules or regulations or changes in, or repeals of, existing laws, rules or regulations, including, but not limited to, those with respect to federal and state taxation, may cause our results of operations to differ materially. In addition, the costs and burden of compliance have significantly increased and could adversely affect our ability to operate profitably. Further, federal monetary policy significantly affects credit conditions for the Bank, as well as for our borrowers, particularly as implemented through the Federal Reserve System, primarily through open market operations in U.S. government securities, the discount rate for bank borrowings and reserve requirements. A material change in any of these conditions could have a material impact on the Bank or our borrowers, and therefore on our results of operations.

Recent legislative and regulatory initiatives to support the financial services industry have been coupled with numerous restrictions and requirements that could detrimentally affect our business.
The Dodd-Frank Act isand the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder have and continue to significantly changingimpact the currentUnited States bank regulatory structure and affectingaffect the lending, deposit, investment, trading and operating activities of financial institutions and their holding companies.

One change that has been particularly significant to us is the abolition of the OTS, our historical federal financial institution regulator, which was effective on July 21, 2011. Supervision and regulation of Provident Bancorp has moved to the Federal Reserve and supervision and regulation of Provident Bank has moved to the OCC. Except as described below, however, the laws and regulations applicable to us have not generally changed - the Home Owners Loan Act and the regulations issued under the Dodd-Frank Act generally still apply (although these laws and regulations are now interpreted by the Federal Reserve and the OCC, respectively). However, the application of the laws and regulations may vary as administered by the Federal Reserve and the OCC. It is possible that the OCC may evaluate the activities of Provident Bank in ways that are more restrictive than the OTS has. This might cause us to incur increased costs or become more restrictive in certain activities than we have been in the past.

In addition, Provident Bancorp for the first time will be subject to consolidated capital requirements and must serve as a source of strength to Provident Bank. It is possible such requirements may limit our capacity to pay dividends or repurchase shares. Provident Bank also will be subject to the same lending limits as national banks. In addition, the affiliate transaction rules in Section 23A of the Federal Reserve Act, as implemented by the Federal Reserve's Regulation W, will apply to securities lending, repurchase agreement and derivatives activities that Provident Bank may have with an affiliate.

The Dodd-Frank Act also broadens the base for FDIC insurance assessments. The FDIC insures deposits at FDIC-insured financial institutions, including Providentthe Bank. The FDIC charges insured financial institutions premiums to maintain the DIF at a specific level. The Bank's FDIC insurance premiums increased substantially beginning in 2009, and we expect to pay significantly higher premiums inIn addition, the future. Current economic conditions have increased bank failures and additional failures are expected, all of which decrease the DIF. In order to restore the DIF to its statutorily mandated minimum of 1.15% over a period of several years, the FDIC increased deposit insurance premium rates at the beginning of 2009 and imposed a special assessment on June 30, 2009. The Dodd-Frank Act increased the minimum target Deposit Insurance FundDIF ratio from 1.15% of estimated insured deposits to 1.35% of estimated insured deposits. Thedeposits and the FDIC must seek to achieve the 1.35% ratio by September 30, 2020. Insured institutions with assets of $10 billion or more are supposed to fund the increase. The FDIC has issued regulations to implement these provisions of the Dodd FrankDodd-Frank Act. It has, in addition, established a higher reserve ratio of 2% as a long-term goal beyond what is required by statute. Therestatute, although there is no implementation deadline for the 2% ratio. The FDIC may increase the assessment rates or impose additional special assessments in the future to keep the DIF at the statutory target level. The Bank’s FDIC insurance premiums increased substantially beginning in 2009, and we continue to expect to pay high premiums in the future. Any increase in our FDIC premiums could have ana materially adverse effect on Provident Bank's profitsthe Bank’s financial condition, results of operations and its ability to pay dividends.

Additionally, on December 10, 2013, five financial condition.regulatory agencies, including the Bank’s primary federal regulator, the OCC, adopted final rules implementing a provision of the Dodd-Frank Act, commonly referred to as the Volcker Rule. The Volcker Rule prohibits banking entities from, among other things, engaging in short-term proprietary trading of securities, derivatives, commodity futures and options on these instruments for their own account; or owning, sponsoring, or having certain relationships with hedge funds or private equity funds, referred to as “covered funds.” The Volcker Rule also requires covered banking entities to implement certain compliance programs, policies and procedures. The complexity and rigor of such programs is determined based on the asset size of the covered company. Upon completion of the HVB Merger, we will be subject to heightened compliance requirements as a covered banking entity with over $10 billion in assets. The rules were effective April 1, 2014, but the conformance period has been extended from its statutory end date of July 21, 2014 until July 21, 2015. We are currently evaluating the Volcker Rule. If we are required to divest any securities in our portfolio, hire additional compliance or personnel, design and implement additional internal controls or incur other significant expenses as a result of the Volcker Rule, it could result in impairments that could materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and our ability to pay dividends or repurchase shares.

The Dodd-Frank Act created a new CFPB which took over responsibility foralso significantly impacts the principal federalvarious consumer protection laws, such as the Truth in Lending Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Actrules and the Truth in Savings Act, among others, on July 21, 2011. However, institutions such as Provident Bank, which have assets of $10 billion or less, will continueregulations applicable to be supervised in this area by their primary federal regulators (in the case of Provident Bank, the OCC).

In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act significantlyfinancial institutions. First, it rolls back the federal preemption of state consumer protection laws that was enjoyed by federal savings associations and national banks by (1) requiring that a state consumer financial law prevent or significantly interfere with the exercise of a federal savings association's or national bank'sbank’s powers before it can be preempted, (2) mandating that any preemption decision be made on a case by case basis rather than a blanket rule, and (3) ending the applicability of preemption to subsidiaries and affiliates of national banks and federal savings associations.banks. As a result, we may now be subject to state consumer protection laws in each state where we do business, and those laws may be interpreted and enforced differently in different states.each state. In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act created the CFPB, which has assumed responsibility for supervising financial institutions which have assets of $10 billion or more for their compliance with the principal federal consumer protection laws, such as the Truth in Lending Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act and the Truth in Savings Act, among others (institutions which have assets of $10 billion or less will continue to be supervised in this area by their primary federal regulators) . While the Bank currently has less than $10 billion in assets, after the completion of the HVB Merger we believe that the Bank’s total assets will exceed $10 billion, thus making it subject to the CFPB’s supervision. Thus, in addition to a variety of new consumer protection laws, rules and regulations that we may be subject to, the Bank may also be subject to a new agency with evolving regulations and practices.


13

Table of Contents




The scope and impact of many of the Dodd-Frank Act'sAct provisions, including the authority provided to the CFPB, will continue to be determined over time as rules and regulations are issued and become effective. As a result, we cannot predict the ultimate impact of the Dodd-Frank Act on us at this time, including the extent to which it could increase costs or limit our ability to pursue business opportunities in an efficient manner, or otherwise adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.operations and our ability to pay dividends or repurchase shares. However, it is expected that at a minimum they will increase our operating and compliance costs. Compliance with these requirements may necessitate that we hire additional compliance or other personnel, design and implement additional internal controls, or incur other significant expenses, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations and our ability to pay dividends or repurchase shares.

We are subject to extensive regulatory oversight.
We and our subsidiaries are subject to extensive supervision and regulation. The Company is supervised and regulated by the Federal Reserve and the Bank is supervised and regulated by the OCC. The application of laws, rules and regulations may vary as administered by the Federal Reserve and the OCC. In addition, the Company is subject to consolidated capital requirements and must serve as a source of strength to the Bank. 

As a result, we are limited in the manner in which we conduct our business, undertake new investments and activities and obtain financing. This regulatory structure is designed primarily for the protection of the DIF and our depositors, as well as other consumers and not to benefit our shareholders. This regulatory structure also gives the regulatory authorities extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities and examination policies, including policies with respect to capital levels, the timing and amount of dividend payments, the classification of assets and the establishment of adequate loan loss reserves for regulatory purposes, all of which can have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and our ability to pay dividends or repurchase shares. Our regulators have also intensified their focus on bank lending criteria and controls, and on the USA PATRIOT Act’s anti-money laundering and Bank Secrecy Act compliance requirements. There is also increased scrutiny of our compliance with the rules enforced by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. In order to comply with laws, rules, regulations, guidelines and examination procedures in the anti-money laundering area, we have been required to adopt new policies and procedures and to install new systems. We cannot be certain that the policies, procedures and systems we have in place to ensure compliance are without error and there is no assurance that in every instance we are in full compliance with these requirements.

Our failure to comply with applicable laws, rules and regulations could result in a range of sanctions, legal proceedings and enforcement actions, including the imposition of civil monetary penalties, formal agreements and cease and desist orders. In addition, the OCC and the FDIC have specific authority to take “prompt corrective action,” depending on our capital levels. For example, currently, we are considered “well-capitalized” for prompt corrective action purposes. If we are designated by the OCC as “adequately capitalized,” we would become subject to additional restrictions and limitations, such as the Bank’s ability to take brokered deposits becoming limited. If we were to be designated by the OCC in one of the lower capital levels (such as “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized” or “critically undercapitalized”) we would be required to raise additional capital and also would be subject to progressively more severe restrictions on our operations, management and capital distributions; replacement of senior executive officers and directors; and, if we became “critically undercapitalized,” to the appointment of a conservator or receiver.

In addition, and as mentioned above in “Risk Factors - Recent legislative and regulatory initiatives to support the financial services industry have been coupled with numerous restrictions and requirements that could detrimentally affect our business,” the Dodd-Frank Act and its implementing regulations impose various additional requirements on bank holding companies with $10 billion or more in total assets, including compliance with portions of the Federal Reserve’s enhanced prudential oversight requirements and annual stress testing requirements. Compliance with the annual stress testing requirements, part of which must be publicly disclosed, may also be misinterpreted by the market generally or our customers and, as a result, may adversely affect our stock price or our ability to retain our customers or effectively compete for new business opportunities. To ensure compliance with these heightened requirements when effective, our regulators may require us to fully comply with these requirements or take actions to prepare for compliance even before the completion of the HVB Merger, when our or the Bank’s total assets could equal or exceed $10 billion. As a result, we may incur compliance-related costs before we might otherwise be required. Our regulators may also consider our preparation for compliance with these regulatory requirements when examining our operations generally or considering any request for regulatory approval we may make, even requests for approvals on unrelated matters.

New capital rules that were recently issued 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.
In 2013, the Federal Reserve, the FDIC and the OCC adopted final rules for the Basel III capital framework. These rules substantially amend the regulatory risk-based capital rules applicable to us. The rules phase in over time beginning in 2015 and will become fully effective in 2019. The rules apply to the Company as well as to the Bank. Beginning in 2015, our minimum capital requirements will be

2814

Table of Contents




Difficult(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% and (iii) a total capital ratio of 8% (the current requirement). Beginning in 2016, a capital conservation buffer will phase in over three years, ultimately resulting in a requirement of 2.5% on top of the common Tier 1, Tier 1 and total capital requirements, resulting in a required common Tier 1 equity ratio of 7%, a Tier 1 ratio of 8.5%, and a total capital ratio of 10.5%. Failure to satisfy any of these three capital requirements will result in limits on paying dividends, engaging in share repurchases and paying discretionary bonuses. These limitations will establish a maximum percentage of eligible retained income that could be utilized for such actions.

General economic conditions in our market conditions havearea could adversely affected our industry.affect us.
We are operating in a challengingaffected by the general economic environment, including generally uncertain national and local conditions. Additional concerns from some of the countriesconditions in the European Union and elsewhere have to strainedlocal markets in which we operate. When the financial markets both abroad and domestically. Although there appears to be evidence of some improvementsrecession began in 2008, the overall situation during 2012, financial institutions continue to be affected by declinesmarket experienced a significant downturn in the real estate market and the constrained financial markets. Declines in the housing market over the past three years, withwhich we saw falling home prices, rising foreclosures and elevated foreclosure, unemployment and under-employment statistics, have negatively impacted the credit performance of mortgage loans and resulted in significant write-downs of asset values by financial institutions , reflecting concern over economic conditions, many lenders and institutional investors have reduced or ceased providing funding to borrowers, although we have observed some increases in lending activity over the past few months. This tightening of credit has led to an increased level of commercial and consumer delinquencies, lowered consumer confidence,delinquencies. Although economic conditions have improved, many businesses and reductionindividuals are still experiencing difficulty as a result of business activity generally. The resultingthe recent economic pressure on consumersdownturn and lack of confidenceprotracted recovery. If economic conditions do not continue to improve, we could experience further adverse consequences, including a decline in the financial markets has adversely affected our business, financial condition and results of operations. If these conditions were to worsen, this would likely exacerbate the adverse effects of these market conditions on us and others in the financial services industry. In particular, we may face the following risks in connection with these events:

Loan delinquencies could increase further;
Problem assets and foreclosures could increase further;
Demanddemand for our products and services and an increase in problem assets, foreclosures and loan losses. Future economic conditions in our market will depend on factors outside of our control such as political and market conditions, broad trends in industry and finance, legislative and regulatory changes, changes in government, military and fiscal policies and inflation, any of which could decline;
Collateral for loans made by us, especially real estate, could decline further in value, in turn reducing a customer's borrowing power,negatively affect our performance and reducing the value of assets and collateral associated with our loans; and
Investments in mortgage-backed securities could decline in value as a result of performance of the underlying loans or the diminution of the value of the underlying real estate collateral pressing the government sponsored agencies to honor its guarantees to principal and interest.financial condition.

An inadequate allowance for loan losses would negatively impact our results of operations.
We are exposed to the risk that our customers will be unable to repay their loans according to their terms and that any collateral securing the payment of their loans will not be sufficient to avoid losses. Credit losses are inherent in the lending business and could have a material adverse effect on our operating results. Volatility and deterioration in the broader economy may also increase our risk of credit losses. The determination of an appropriate level of allowance for loan losses is an inherently uncertain process and is based on numerous assumptions. The amount of future losses is susceptible to changes in economic, operating and other conditions, including changes in interest rates, that may be beyond our control, and charge-offs may exceed current estimates. We evaluate the collectability of our loan portfolio and provide an allowance for loan losses that we believe is adequate based upon such factors as, including, but not limited to: the risk characteristics of various classifications of loans; previous loan loss experience; specific loans that have loss potential; delinquency trends; the estimated fair market value of the collateral; current economic conditions; the views of our regulators; and geographic and industry loan concentrations. If any of our evaluations are incorrect andand/or borrower defaults result in losses exceeding our allowance for loan losses, our results of operations could be significantly and adversely affected. We cannot assure you that our allowance will be adequate to cover probable loan losses inherent in our portfolio.

The need to account for assets at market prices may adversely affect our results of operations.
We report certain assets, including investments and securities, at fair value. Generally, for assets that are reported at fair value we use quoted market prices or valuation models that utilize market data inputs to estimate fair value. Because we carry these assets on our books at their fair value, we may incur losses even if the assetassets in question presentspresent minimal credit risk. We may be required to recognize other-than-temporary impairments in future periods with respect to securities in our portfolio. The amount and timing of any impairment recognized will depend on the severity and duration of the decline in fair value of the securities and our estimation of the anticipated recovery period.

Acquisition, development,Changes in the value of goodwill and construction (ADC) loans, commercialintangible assets could reduce our earnings.
The Company accounts for goodwill and other intangible assets in accordance with GAAP (as defined below), which, in general, requires that goodwill not be amortized, but rather that it be tested for impairment at least annually at the reporting unit level using the two step approach. Testing for impairment of goodwill and intangible assets is performed annually and involves the identification of reporting units and the estimation of fair values. The estimation of fair values involves a high degree of judgment and subjectivity in the assumptions used. As of September 30, 2014, the fair value of Sterling Bancorp shares exceeds the recorded book value. Changes in the local and national economy, the federal and state legislative and regulatory environments for financial institutions, the stock market, interest rates and other external factors (such as natural disasters or significant world events) may occur from time to time, often with great unpredictability, and may materially impact the fair value of publicly traded financial institutions and could result in an impairment charge at a future date.

Commercial real estate, commercial & industrial and commercial and industrial (C&I)ADC loans expose us to increased risk and earnings volatility.
We consider our commercial real estate loans, C&Icommercial & industrial loans and ADC loans to be the higher risk categories in our loan portfolio. These loans are particularly sensitive to economic conditions. At September 30, 2012,2014, our portfolio of commercial real estate loans, including multi-family loans, totaled $1.1$1.8 billion, or 50.6%38.1% of total loans, our portfolio of commercial and& industrial business loan portfolioloans totaled $343.3 million,$2.1 billion, or 16.2%43.7% of total loans, and our portfolio of ADC loans totaled $144.1$92.1 million, or 6.8 %1.9% of total loans. We plan to continue to emphasize the origination of these types of loans, other than ADC loans, which we now make only on an exception basis.

15

Table of Contents




Commercial real estate loans generally involve a higher degree of credit risk than residential loans because they typically have larger balances and are more affected by adverse conditions in the economy. Because payments on loans secured by commercial real estate often depend on the successful operation and management of the businesses which hold the loans, repayment of such loans may be affected by factors outside the borrower’s control, such as adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy or changes in government regulation. In the case of C&Icommercial & industrial loans, which we are emphasizing throughout our market area, although we strive to maintain high credit standards and limit exposure to any one borrower, the collateral for these loans often consists of accounts receivable, inventory and equipment. This type of collateral typically does not yield substantial recovery in the event we need to foreclose on it and may rapidly deteriorate, disappear, or be misdirected in advance of foreclosure. This adds to the potential that our charge-offs will be more volatile than we have experienced in the past, which could significantly negatively affect our earnings in any quarter. In addition, some of our ADC loans pose higher risk levels than the levels expected at origination, as projects may stall or sell at prices lower than expected. We continue to seek pay downs on loans with or without sales activity. While this portfolio may cause us to incur additional bad debt expense even if losses are not realized, such loans only comprise 1.9% of our loan portfolio.


29

Table of Contents

In addition, many of our borrowers also have more than one commercial real estate, commercial business or ADC loan outstanding with us. Consequently, an adverse development with respect to one loan or one credit relationship may expose us to significantly greater risk of loss. In particular, many of our ADC loans continue to pose higher risk levels than the levels expected at origination. Many projects are stalled or are selling at prices lower than expected. While we continue to seek pay downs on loans with or without sales activity, this portfolio may cause us to incur additional bad debt expense even if losses are not realized. Additionally, the balance on over half of our ADC loans is maturing within one year, which may expose us to greater risk of loss or to report increased levels of loans considered troubled debt restructures.

Changes in the value of goodwill and intangible assets could reduce our earnings.
The Company accounts for goodwill and other intangible assets in accordance with GAAP, which, in general, requires that goodwill not be amortized, but rather that it be tested for impairment at least annually at the reporting unit level using the two step approach. Testing for impairment of goodwill and intangible assets is performed annually and involves the identification of reporting units and the estimation of fair values. The estimation of fair values involves a high degree of judgment and subjectivity in the assumptions used. As of September 30, 2012, the fair value of Provident Bancorp shares exceed recorded book value by 9%. Changes in the local and national economy, the federal and state legislative and regulatory environments for financial institutions, the stock market, interest rates and other external factors (such as natural disasters or significant world events) may occur from time to time, often with great unpredictability, and may materially impact the fair value of publicly traded financial institutions and could result in an impairment charge at a future date.

Our continuing concentration of loans in our primary market area may increase our risk.
Our success depends primarily on the general economic conditions in the counties in which we have historically conductedconduct most of our business,business. Most of our loans and deposits are generated from customers primarily in the New York City metropolitan area in general. Most of the loansregion and deposits we hold arise from customers primarily in Rockland and Orange Counties in New York. We also have a branch presence in Ulster, Sullivan, Westchester and Putnam Counties in New York and in Bergen County, New Jersey. Also, during fiscal 2012 we have expanded into New York City through the creation of commercial banking teams for the New York City marketplace and the acquisition of Gotham Bank, which among other things, has provided us with a branch in the City. Although our recentOur expansion into New York City and continued growth in Westchester County New York helpand Bergen County has helped us diversify theour geographic concentration with respect to our lending activities. Deterioration in economic conditions in Rockland and Orange counties continue to have a significant impact on our loans, the ability of the borrowers to repay these loans and the value of the collateral securing these loans. A deterioration in those conditionsmarket area would adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Changes in market interest rates could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Our financial condition and resultresults of operations are significantly affected by changes in market interest rates. Our results of operations substantially depend on our net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income that we earn on our interest-earning assets and the interest expense that we pay on our interest-bearing liabilities. In recent years, the structure of theour balance sheet has become more asset sensitive in whichbecause our assets either mature or re-price at a faster pace than liabilities and in particular borrowings.our liabilities. If general levels of interest rates were to continue at existing levels or decline, further, net interest income would be adversely affected as asset yields would be expected to decline at faster rates than deposit or borrowing costs. A decline in net interest income may also occur, offsetting a portion or all gains in net interest income from assets re-pricing and increases in volume, if competitive market pressures limit our ability to maintain or lag deposit costs. Wholesale funding costs may also increase at a faster pace than asset re-pricing and in this regardre-pricing. As of September 30, 2014, we have $220.0$200.0 million in structured/convertiblestructured advances with the FHLB at an average cost of 4.17%4.23%. If interest rates were to approach or exceed this level, it would be expected that the FHLB wouldmay call for conversion of those fundsborrowings and offer replacement borrowings at then current market rates which potentially would be higher.

We also are subject to reinvestment risk associated with changes in interest rates. Changes in interest rates may affect the average life of loans and mortgage-related securities. Decreases in interest rates often result in increased prepayments of loans and mortgage- related securities, as borrowers refinance their loans to reduce borrowings costs. Under these circumstances, we are subject to reinvestment risk to the extent that we are unable to reinvest the cash received from such prepayments in loans or other investments that have interest rates that are comparable to the interest rates on existing loans and securities. Additionally, increases in interest rates may decrease loan demand and/or may make it more difficult for borrowers to repay adjustable rate loans.

Changes in interest rates also affect the value of our interest earning assets and in particular our securities portfolio. Generally, the value of our securities fluctuates inversely with changes in interest rates. At September 30, 2012,2014, our investment and mortgage-backed securities available for sale securities portfolio totaled $1.0$1.1 billion. Unrealized gainslosses on securities available for sale, net of tax, amounted to $15.1$2.8 million and are reported as part of other comprehensive income (loss), included as a separate component of stockholders'stockholders’ equity. Further decreases in the fair value of securities available for sale therefore, could have an adverse effect on stockholders'stockholders’ equity.


30

Table of Contents

Our ability to pay dividends is subject to regulatory limitations and other limitations which may affect our ability to pay dividends to our stockholders or to repurchase our common stock.
ProvidentSterling Bancorp is a separate legal entity from its subsidiary, ProvidentSterling National Bank, and does not have significant operations of its own. The availability of dividends from Providentthe Bank is limited by various statutes and regulations. It is possible, depending upon the financial condition of Providentthe Bank and other factors, that Provident Bank's regulatorthe Bank’s regulators could assert that payment of dividends or other payments may result in an unsafe or unsound practice. In addition, under the Dodd-Frank Act, ProvidentSterling Bancorp will beis subjected to consolidated capital requirements

16

Table of Contents




and must serve as a source of strength to Providentthe Bank. If Providentthe Bank is unable to pay dividends to ProvidentSterling Bancorp or ProvidentSterling Bancorp is required to retain capital or contribute capital to Providentthe Bank, we may not be able to pay dividends on our common stock or to repurchase shares of common stock.

A breach of information security could negatively affect our earnings.
Increasingly, we depend upon data processing, communication and information exchange on a variety of computing platforms and networks, and over the Internet.Internet from both internal sources and external, third-party vendors. While to date we have not been subject to cyber attacksmaterial cyber-attacks or other cyber incidents, we cannot be certainguarantee all our systems are entirely free from vulnerability to attack, despite safeguards we and our vendors have instituted. In addition, we rely on the services of a variety of vendors to meet our data processing and communication needs. Disruptionsdisruptions to our vendors'vendors’ systems may arise from events that are wholly or partially beyond our vendors'and our vendors’ control (including, for example, computer viruses or electrical or telecommunications outages). If information security is breached, despite the controls we and our third partythird-party vendors have instituted, information can be lost or misappropriated, resulting in financial losslosses or costs to us or damages to others. These costs or losses could materially exceed the amount of insurance coverage, if any, which would adversely affect our earnings. In addition, our reputation could be damaged which could result in loss of customers, greater difficulty in attracting new customers, or an adverse affecteffect on the value of our common stock.

Our management has concluded that we did not maintain effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012.
We have identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012. These material weaknesses are described in Item 9A, "Controls and Procedures" in this Form 10-K, together with a discussion of our remedial efforts.

 Our failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting could adversely affect our ability to report our financial results on a timely and accurate basis, which could result in a loss of investor confidence in our financial reports or have a material adverse effect on our ability to operate our business or access sources of liquidity. Furthermore, because of the inherent limitations of any system of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of human error, the circumvention or overriding of controls and fraud, even effective internal controls may not prevent or detect all misstatements.

We are subject to extensive regulatory oversight.
We and our subsidiaries are subject to extensive regulation and supervision. Regulators have intensified their focus on bank lending criteria and controls, and on the USA PATRIOT Act's anti-money laundering and Bank Secrecy Act compliance requirements. There is also increased scrutiny of our compliance with the rules enforced by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. In order to comply with regulations, guidelines and examination procedures in the anti-money laundering area, we have been required to adopt new policies and procedures and to install new systems. We cannot be certain that the policies, procedures and systems we have in place are flawless. Therefore, there is no assurance that in every instance we are in full compliance with these requirements. Our failure to comply with these and other regulatory requirements can lead to, among other remedies, administrative enforcement actions, and legal proceedings.

Failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations also could result in a range of sanctions and enforcement actions, including the imposition of civil money penalties, formal agreements and cease and desist orders. In addition, the OCC and the FDIC have specific authority to take “prompt corrective action,” depending on our capital level. Currently, we are considered “well-capitalized” for prompt corrective action purposes. If we were designated by the OCC as “adequately capitalized,” our ability to take brokered deposits would become limited. If we were to be designated by the OCC in one of the lower capital levels - “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized” and “critically undercapitalized” - we would be required to raise additional capital and also would be subject to progressively more severe restrictions on our operations, management and capital distributions; replacement of senior executive officers and directors; and, if we became “critically undercapitalized,” to the appointment of a conservator or receiver. Also, in addition to generally applicable capital requirements, Provident Bank has committed to maintain an 8% Tier 1 leverage ratio at comparable levels consistent with its capital management policy. While we believe that Provident Bank has been and continues to be in compliance with this commitment, if the OCC were to conclude otherwise it could seek to impose sanctions on Provident Bank.


31

Table of Contents

In addition, recently enacted, proposed and future legislation and regulations (including the Dodd-Frank Act, which is discussed above), have had, will continue to have or may have significant impact on the financial services industry. Regulatory or legislative changes could make regulatory compliance more difficult or expensive for us, could cause us to change or limit some of our products and services or the way we operate our business, and could limit our ability to pursue business opportunities.

We are subject to competition from both banks and non-bankingnon-bank companies.
The financial services industry, including commercial banking, is highly competitive, and we encounter strong competition for deposits, loans and other financial services in our market area. Our principal competitors include commercial banks, other savings banks and savings and loan associations, mutual funds, money market funds, finance companies, trust companies, insurers, leasing companies, credit unions, mortgage companies, real estate investment trusts (REITs), private issuers of debt obligations, venture capital firms, and suppliers of other investment alternatives, such as securities firms. Many of our non-bank competitors are not subject to the same degree of regulation as we are and have advantages over us in providing certain services. Many of our competitors are significantly larger than we are and have greater access to capital and other resources. Also, our ability to compete effectively is dependent on our ability to adapt successfully to technological changes within the banking and financial services industry.

Various factors may make takeover attempts more difficult to achieve.
Our Board of Directors (the “Board”) has no current intention to sell control of ProvidentSterling Bancorp. Provisions of our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, federal regulations, Delaware law and various other factors may make it more difficult for companies or persons to acquire control of ProvidentSterling Bancorp without the consent of our Board of Directors. OneBoard. A shareholder may want a take overtakeover attempt to succeed because, for example, a potential acquirer could offer a premium over the then prevailing market price of our common stock. The factors that may discourage takeover attempts or make them more difficult include:

(a)Certificate of Incorporation and statutory provisions.provisions.
Provisions of the certificate of incorporation and bylaws of ProvidentSterling Bancorp and Delaware law may make it more difficult and expensive to pursue a takeover attempt that managementour Board opposes. These provisions also would make it more difficult to remove our current Board, of Directors or management, or to elect new directors. These provisions also include limitations on voting rights of beneficial owners of more than 10% of our common stock, super majority voting requirements for certain business combinations, the election of directors to staggered terms of three years and plurality voting. Our bylaws also contain provisions regarding the timing and content of stockholder proposals and nominations and qualification for service on the Board of Directors.Board.

(b) Required change in control payments and issuance of stock options and recognition and retention plan sharesshares.
We have entered into employment agreements with executive officers, which require payments to be made to them in the event their employment is terminated following a change in control of ProvidentSterling Bancorp or ProvidentSterling National Bank. We have issued stock grants and stock options in accordance with the 2004 Provident Bancorp Inc. Stock Incentive Plan and the Sterling Bancorp 2014 Stock Incentive Plan. In the event of a change in control, the vesting of stock and option grants would accelerate. In 2006, we adopted the Provident Bank & Affiliates Transition Benefit Plan. The plan calls for severance payments ranging from 12 weeks to one year for employees not covered by separate agreements if they are terminated in connection with a change in control of the Company. These payments and the acceleration of grants would increase the cost of acquiring Provident Bancorp, thereby discouraging future takeover attempts.

Our ability to make opportunistic acquisitions and participation in FDIC-assisted acquisitions or assumption of deposits from a troubled institution is subject to significant risks, including the risk that regulators will not provide the requisite approvals.
We may make opportunistic whole or partial acquisitions of other banks, branches, financial institutions, or related businesses from time to time that we expect may further our business strategy, including through participation in FDIC-assisted acquisitions or assumption of deposits from troubled institutions. Any possible acquisition will be subject to regulatory approval, and there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain such approval in a timely manner or at all. Even if we obtain regulatory approval, these acquisitions could involve numerous risks, including lower than expected performance or higher than expected costs, difficulties related to integration, difficulties and costs associated with consolidation and streamlining inefficiencies, diversion of management'smanagement’s attention from other business activities, changes in relationships with customers, and the potential loss of key employees. In addition, we may not be successful

17

Table of Contents




in identifying acquisition candidates, integrating acquired institutions, or preventing deposit erosion or loan quality deterioration at acquired institutions. Competition for acquisitions can be highly competitive, and we may not be able to acquire other institutions on attractive terms. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in completing or will even pursue future acquisitions, or if such transactions are completed, that we will be successful in integrating acquired businesses into operations. AbilityOur ability to grow may be limited if we choose not to pursue or are unable to successfully make acquisitions in the future.

Moreover, as noted previously, Hudson Valley and the Company have entered into a definitive agreement to merge the two companies. The HVB Merger will be subject to regulatory approval and the approval of both companies’ shareholders, and there can be no assurance that such approvals will be obtained in a timely manner or at all. Even if the approvals are obtained, the success of the HVB Merger, including anticipated benefits and cost savings, will depend, in part, on the Company’s ability to successfully combine and integrate the businesses of the predecessor companies in a manner that permits growth opportunities and does not result in the loss of key employees, the disruption of either company’s ongoing businesses, including existing customer relationships, or inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies that adversely affect the combined company’s ability to maintain relationships with clients, customers, depositors and employees or to achieve the anticipated benefits and cost savings of the HVB Merger. Such integration will likely require the consolidation of financial centers in overlapping market areas to reduce redundancy and promote efficiency. As was the case with the Merger in the first quarter of fiscal 2014, consolidation of overlapping financial centers following the HVB Merger may result in restructuring charges, charges for asset write-downs and severance costs that we may not recoup until a date in the future, if at all. If the Company experiences difficulties with the integration process, the anticipated benefits of the HVB Merger may not be realized fully or at all, or may take longer to realize than expected.

Our results of operations, financial condition or liquidity may be adversely impacted by issues arising from certain industry deficiencies in foreclosure practices, including delays and challenges in the foreclosure process.
Over the past few years, foreclosure time lines have increased due to, among other reasons, delays associated with the significant increase in the number of foreclosure cases as a result of the economic downturn, federal and state legal and regulatory actions, including additional consumer protection initiatives related to the foreclosure process and voluntary and, in some cases, mandatory

32

Table of Contents

programs intended to permit or require lenders to consider loan modifications or other alternatives to foreclosure. Residential mortgages in particular may present us with foreclosure process issues. Residential mortgages, for example, are 12% of our total loan portfolio, but constitute 32.1% of our non-accrual loans. Collateral for many of our residential loans is located within the State of New York, where there may continue to be foreclosure process and timeline issues. Further increases in the foreclosure time-line may have an adverse effect on collateral values and our ability to minimize our losses.

The Company depends on its executive officers and key personnel to continue the implementation of its long-term business strategy and could be harmed by the loss of their services.
The Company believes that its continued growth and future success will depend in large part on the skills of its management team and its ability to motivate and retain these individuals and other key personnel. In particular, the Company relies on the leadership of its Chief Executive Officer, Jack Kopnisky. The loss of service of Mr. Kopnisky or one or more of the Company’s other executive officers or key personnel could reduce the Company’s ability to successfully implement its long-term business strategy, its business could suffer and the value of the Company’s common stock could be materially adversely affected. Leadership changes will occur from time to time and the Company cannot predict whether significant resignations will occur or whether the Company will be able to recruit additional qualified personnel. The Company believes its management team possesses valuable knowledge about the banking industry and the Company’s markets and that their knowledge and relationships would be very difficult to replicate. Although the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and other executive officers have entered into employment agreements with the Company, it is possible that they may not complete the term of their employment agreements or renew them upon expiration. The Company’s success also depends on the experience of its branch managers and lending officers and on their relationships with the customers and communities they serve. The loss of these key personnel could negatively impact the Company’s banking operations. The loss of key personnel, or the inability to recruit and retain qualified personnel in the future, could have an adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition or operating results.

ITEM 1B.Unresolved Staff Comments

Not Applicable.

18






ITEM 2.Properties

We maintain our executive offices, commercial lending division and investmentwealth management and trust departmentback office operations departments at a leased facility located at 400 Rella Boulevard, Montebello, NYNew York consisting of 48,623 square feet. At September 30, 2012,2014, we conducted our business through 3532 full-service financial centers which serve the greater New York City metropolitan area.Metro Market and the New York Suburban Market. Of these financial centers, 12seven are located in Orange County, New York 13and nine in Rockland County, New York. We operate 8five offices in Ulster, Sullivan, Westchester and Putnam Counties in New York, 1 officeseven offices in New York City, three offices in Long Island and 1 office in Bergen County, NJ which operates under the name PBNY Bank, a division of Provident Bank, New York.Jersey. Additionally, 1812 of our financial centers are owned and 1720 are leased.

In addition to our branchfinancial center network and corporate headquarters, we lease 2 and own 1four additional properties which are heldused for general corporate purposes and 24 foreclosed26 other real estate owned properties located in Putnam, Orange, Rockland, Sullivan and Ulster counties. See Note 6 of5. “Premises and Equipment, net” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements”consolidated financial statements for further detail on our premises and equipment.
ITEM 3.Legal Proceedings
Provident BancorpItem 3. Legal Proceedings
Note 16. “Commitments and Contingencies - Litigation” to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8. hereof is incorporated herein by reference. The Company does not involved in any pending legal proceedings other than routine legal proceedings occurring in the ordinary course of business which, inanticipate that the aggregate involve amounts that are believed by managementliability arising out of litigation pending against the Company and its subsidiaries will be material to be immaterial to Provident Bancorp’sits consolidated financial condition and results of operations.statements.
ITEM 4.Mine Safety Disclosures
Not Applicable.

3319





PART II

ITEM 5.Market for Registrant'sRegistrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
(A)
Common Stock Market Prices and Dividends
The shares ofCompany’s common stock of Provident Bancorp are quotedis traded on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the symbol “PBNY.” “STL”. The following table sets forth the high and low intra-day sales prices per share of Sterling Bancorp common stock and the cash dividends declared per share for the past two fiscal years.
Quarter endedHigh Low 
Cash dividends
declared
September 30, 2014$13.34
 $11.60
 $0.07
June 30, 201413.00
 10.84
 0.07
March 31, 201413.34
 11.73
 0.07
December 31, 201313.52
 10.71
 
September 30, 201311.32
 9.36
 0.12
June 30, 20139.55
 8.69
 0.06
March 31, 20139.71
 8.59
 0.06
December 31, 20129.83
 8.62
 0.06

As of September 30, 2012, Provident Bancorp has one designated registered market maker, 5,280 stockholders2014, there were 83,628,267 shares of the Company’s common stock outstanding held by 5,471 holders of record (excluding the number of persons or entities holding stock in street name through various brokerage firms), and 44,173,470 shares outstanding.
Market Price and Dividends.. The following table sets forth marketclosing price and dividend information for theper share of common stock foron September 30, 2014, the past two fiscal years.
Quarter EndedHigh Low 
Cash Dividends
Declared
September 30, 2012$9.65
 $7.44
 $0.06
June 30, 20128.72
 7.24
 0.06
March 31, 20129.21
 6.70
 0.06
December 31, 20117.63
 5.51
 0.06
September 30, 2011$8.49
 $5.82
 $0.06
June 30, 201110.15
 8.26
 0.06
March 31, 201110.93
 9.11
 0.06
December 31, 201010.64
 8.48
 0.06
Payment of dividends on Provident Bancorp’s common stock is subject to determination and declaration by the Board of Directors and depends on a number of factors, including capital requirements, legal, and regulatory limitations on the payment of dividends, the results of operations and financial condition, tax considerations and general economic conditions. No assurance can be given that dividends will be declared or, if declared, what the amount of dividends will be, or whether such dividends will continue. Repurchaseslast trading day of the Company’s shares of common stock during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year, was $12.79.
The Board is committed to continuing to pay regular cash dividends; however, there can be no assurance as to future dividends because they are dependent upon the Company’s future earnings, capital requirements and financial condition. In connection with the Merger, the Company accelerated the dividend that would have been regularly declared in the quarter ended September 30, 2012 are detailed in (C) below. There were no sales of unregistered securities duringDecember 31, 2013 to the quarter ended September 30, 2012.2013. Therefore, the Company declared cash dividends of $0.12 per share in the quarter ended September 30, 2013 and did not declare a dividend in the quarter ended December 31, 2013.
See the section captioned “Regulation” included in Item 1. “Business”, the section captioned “Capital and Liquidity” included in Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Note 14. “Stockholders’ Equity” to the consolidated financial statements all of which are included elsewhere in this report, for additional information regarding our common stock and our ability to pay dividends.

20





Performance Graph
Set forth below is a stock performance graph comparing the yearlycumulative total shareholder return on our shares ofSterling Bancorp common stock commencing with the closing price on September 30, 2007, with (a) the cumulative total return on stocks included in the NASDAQS&P 500 Composite Index and (b) the cumulative total return on stocks included in the SNL Mid-Atlantic Thrift Index.
There canBank Index, measured as of the last trading day of each year shown. The graph assumes an investment of $100 on September 30, 2009 and reinvestment of dividends on the date of payment without commissions. The performance graph represents past performance and should not be no assurance that our stock performance in the future will continue with the same or similar trend depicted in the graph below. We will not make or endorse any predictions asconsidered to be an indication of future stock performance.

34



PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP

 Period Ending
Index9/30/2007 9/30/2008 9/30/2009 9/30/2010 9/30/2011 9/30/2012
Provident New York Bancorp100.00
 102.72
 76.10
 68.64
 48.93
 81.56
NASDAQ Composite100.00
 78.08
 80.06
 90.26
 92.97
 121.46
SNL Mid-Atlantic Thrift Index100.00
 85.91
 63.66
 71.94
 56.47
 74.79
 Performance at September 30,
Index2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Sterling Bancorp100.00
 90.20
 64.30
 107.17
 127.21
 152.93
S&P 500 Index100.00
 110.16
 111.42
 145.07
 173.13
 207.30
SNL Mid-Atlantic Bank Index100.00
 89.97
 71.02
 94.54
 127.03
 145.65
This stock performance graph shall not be deemed incorporated by reference by any general statement incorporating by reference this Form 10-K under the Securities Act, of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, except to the extent that Provident New YorkSterling Bancorp specifically incorporates this information by reference, and shall not otherwise be deemed filed under such Acts.
(B)
Not Applicable











3521



(C)


Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
The following table reports information regarding purchases of the Company’s common stock during the fourth fiscal quarter of 2014 and the stock repurchase plan approved by the Board:  

 
Total Number
of Shares
(or Units)
Purchased (1)
 
Average
Price Paid
per share
(or Unit)
 
Total Number of
Shares (or Units)
Purchased as Part
of Publicly
Announced Plans

or Programs
(2)
 
Maximum Number
(or Approximate
Dollar Value) of
Shares (or Units)
that may yet be
Purchased Under the
Plans or Programs (2)
Period (2012)       
July 1 — July 312,724
 $7.77
 
 776,713
August 1 — August 31420
 8.29
 
 776,713
September 1 — September 302,897
 9.41
 
 776,713
Total6,041
 $8.59
 
  
Total Number
of shares
(or units)
purchased 
Average
price paid
per share
(or unit)
Total number of
shares (or units)
purchased as part
of publicly
announced plans
or programs (1)
Maximum number
(or approximate
dollar value) of
shares (or units)
that may yet be
purchased under the
plans or programs (1)
Period (2014)
July 1 — July 31
$

776,713
August 1 — August 31


776,713
September 1 — September 30


776,713
Total
$

 
1
The total number of shares purchased during the periods includes shares deemed to have been received from employees who exercised stock options by submitting previously acquired shares of common stock in satisfaction of the exercise price, or shares withheld for tax purposes ($51,907, or 6,041shares), as is permitted under the Company’s stock benefit plans and shares repurchased as part of a previously authorized repurchase program.
2 
The Company announced its fifth repurchase program on December 17, 2009 authorizing the repurchase of 2,000,000 shares of which 776,713 remain available for repurchase.

22

Table of Contents




ITEM 6.Selected Financial Data

The following financial condition and operatingsummary data are derived fromis based in part on the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes, and other schedules appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-K. Comparability of Provident Bancorp.the selected financial data at or for the year ended September 30, 2014 to earlier periods is affected by the Merger. See discussion of the Merger in Item 1. “Business”, in Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis, and in Note 2. “Acquisitions” in the consolidated financial statements. Historical data is also based in part on, and should be read in conjunction with, prior filings with the SEC. Additional information is provided in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the Consolidated Financial Statementsconsolidated financial statements and related notes included as Item 7 and Item 8 of this reportReport, respectively.
 At September 30,
 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008
 (Dollars in thousands)
Selected Financial Condition Data:         
Total assets$4,022,982
 $3,137,402
 $3,021,025
 $3,021,893
 $2,984,371
Loans, net (1)
2,091,190
 1,675,882
 1,670,698
 1,673,207
 1,708,452
Securities available for sale1,010,872
 739,844
 901,012
 832,583
 791,688
Securities held to maturity142,376
 110,040
 33,848
 44,614
 43,013
Deposits3,111,151
 2,296,695
 2,142,702
 2,082,282
 1,989,197
Borrowings345,176
 323,522
 363,751
 430,628
 566,008
Equity491,122
 431,134
 430,955
 427,456
 399,158

3623

Table of Contents




Years Ended September 30,At or for the year ended September 30,
2012 2011 2010 2009 20082014 2013 2012 2011 2010
(Dollars in thousands)(Dollars in thousands)
Selected Operating Data:         
Selected financial condition data:         
Period end:         
Total assets$7,337,387
 $4,049,172
 $4,022,982
 $3,137,402
 $3,021,025
Loans, net (1)
4,719,826
 2,384,021
 2,091,190
 1,675,882
 1,670,698
Securities available for sale1,110,813
 954,393
 1,010,872
 739,844
 901,012
Securities held to maturity579,075
 253,999
 142,376
 110,040
 33,848
Deposits5,298,654
 2,962,294
 3,111,151
 2,296,695
 2,142,702
Borrowings939,069
 560,986
 345,176
 323,522
 363,751
Stockholdersequity
961,138
 482,866
 491,122
 431,134
 430,955
Average:         
Total assets$6,757,094
 $3,815,609
 $3,195,299
 $2,949,251
 $2,913,560
Loans, net (1)
4,120,749
 2,216,871
 1,806,136
 1,665,360
 1,656,016
Securities available for sale1,175,618
 950,628
 801,792
 880,624
 836,130
Securities held to maturity517,270
 172,642
 165,722
 28,787
 42,903
Deposits4,921,930
 2,856,640
 2,366,263
 2,082,727
 1,978,380
Borrowings814,409
 446,916
 356,296
 422,816
 488,330
Stockholders’ equity906,134
 489,412
 447,065
 427,290
 425,408
Selected income statement data:         
Interest and dividend income$115,037
 $112,614
 $119,774
 $131,590
 $148,982
$246,906
 $132,061
 $115,037
 $112,614
 $119,774
Interest expense18,573
 21,324
 26,440
 37,720
 53,642
28,918
 19,894
 18,573
 21,324
 26,440
Net interest income96,464
 91,290
 93,334
 93,870
 95,340
217,988
 112,167
 96,464
 91,290
 93,334
Provision for loan losses10,612
 16,584
 10,000
 17,600
 7,200
19,100
 12,150
 10,612
 16,584
 10,000
Net interest income after provision for loan losses85,852
 74,706
 83,334
 76,270
 88,140
198,888
 100,017
 85,852
 74,706
 83,334
Non-interest income32,152
 29,951
 27,201
 39,953
 21,042
47,370
 27,692
 32,152
 29,951
 27,201
Non-interest expense91,957
 90,111
 83,170
 80,187
 75,500
208,428
 91,041
 91,957
 90,111
 83,170
Income before income tax expense26,047
 14,546
 27,365
 36,036
 33,682
37,830
 36,668
 26,047
 14,546
 27,365
Income tax expense6,159
 2,807
 6,873
 10,175
 9,904
10,152
 11,414
 6,159
 2,807
 6,873
Net income$19,888
 $11,739
 $20,492
 $25,861
 $23,778
$27,678
 $25,254
 $19,888
 $11,739
 $20,492
Per share data:

        
Basic earnings per share$0.34
 $0.58
 $0.52
 $0.31
 $0.54
Diluted earnings per share0.34
 0.58
 0.52
 0.31
 0.54
Dividends declared per share0.21
 0.30
 0.24
 0.24
 0.24
Dividend payout ratio61.8% 51.7% 45.2% 77.4% 44.4%
Book value per share$11.49
 $10.89
 $11.12
 $11.39
 $11.26
Common shares outstanding:         
Weighted average shares basic80,268,970 43,734,425 38,227,653
 37,452,596 37,161,180
Weighted average shares diluted80,534,043 43,783,053 38,248,046
 37,453,542 38,185,122
_________________________
See legend on the following page.

3724

Table of Contents




 At or For the Years Ended September 30,
 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008
Selected Financial Ratios and Other Data:         
Performance Ratios:         
Return on assets (ratio of net income to average total assets)0.62% 0.40% 0.70% 0.89% 0.84%
Return on equity (ratio of net income to average equity)4.45
 2.75
 4.82
 6.22
 5.88
Average interest rate spread (2)
3.33
 3.42
 3.51
 3.46
 3.49
Net interest margin (3)
3.51
 3.65
 3.78
 3.81
 3.96
Efficiency ratio (4)
68.34
 71.00
 68.96
 65.11
 61.20
Non-interest expense to average total assets2.88
 3.06
 2.85
 2.77
 2.68
Ratio of average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities129.13
 128.36
 126.66
 123.54
 122.26
Per Share Related Data:

        
Basic earnings per share$0.52
 $0.31
 $0.54
 $0.67
 $0.61
Diluted earnings per share0.52
 0.31
 0.54
 0.67
 0.61
Dividends per share0.24
 0.24
 0.24
 0.24
 0.24
Book value per share (6)
11.12
 11.39
 11.26
 10.81
 10.03
Dividend payout ratio (5)
46.15% 77.42% 44.44% 35.82% 39.34%
Asset Quality Ratios:         
Non-performing assets to total assets (1)
1.15% 1.46% 1.02% 0.93% 0.57%
Non-performing loans to total loans (1)
1.88
 2.38
 1.58
 1.55
 0.97
Allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans71
 69
 115
 114
 137
Allowance for loan losses to total loans1.47
 1.64
 1.81
 1.76
 1.33
Capital Ratios:         
Equity to total assets at end of year12.21% 13.74% 14.27% 14.15% 13.37%
Average equity to average assets13.99
 14.49
 14.60
 14.36
 14.34
Tier 1 leverage ratio (bank only)7.5
 8.1
 8.4
 8.6
 8.0
Other Data:         
Number of full service offices35
 37
 35
 33
 33
 At or for the year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010
 (Dollars in Thousands)
Performance ratios:         
Return on assets (ratio of net income to average total assets)0.41% 0.63% 0.62% 0.40% 0.70%
Return on equity (ratio of net income to average equity)3.1
 5.2
 4.5
 2.8
 4.8
Net interest margin (2)
3.74
 3.37
 3.51
 3.65
 3.78
Core operating efficiency ratio(3) 
59.4
 63.7
 69.7
 72.1
 69.1
Capital ratios (Company):(4)
         
Equity to total assets at end of period13.10% 11.90% 12.21% 13.74% 14.27%
Average equity to average assets13.41
 12.82
 13.99
 14.49
 14.60
Tier 1 leverage ratio8.12
 
 
 
 
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio10.33
 
 
 
 
Total risk-based capital ratio11.10
 
 
 
 
Regulatory capital ratios (Bank):         
Tier 1 leverage ratio9.34% 9.33% 7.56% 8.14% 8.43%
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio11.94
 13.18
 12.16
 11.85
 12.09
Total risk-based capital ratio12.71
 14.24
 13.36
 13.03
 13.34
Asset quality data and ratios:         
Allowance for loan losses$40,612
 $28,877
 $28,282
 $27,917
 $30,843
Non-performing loans50,963
 26,906
 39,814
 40,567
 26,840
Non-performing assets58,543
 32,928
 46,217
 45,958
 30,731
Net charge-offs7,365
 11,555
 10,247
 19,510
 9,207
Non-performing assets to total assets0.80% 0.81% 1.15% 1.46% 1.02%
Non-performing loans to total loans (1)
1.07
 1.12
 1.88
 2.38
 1.58
Allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans80
 107
 71
 69
 115
Allowance for loan losses to total loans0.85
 1.20
 1.47
 1.64
 1.81
Net charge-offs to average loans0.24
 0.52
 0.56
 1.17
 0.56
          
_________________________
(1)
Excludes loans held for sale.

(2)
The average interest rate spread represents the difference between the weighted-average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted-average cost of interest-bearing liabilities for the period.
(3)
The net interest margin represents net interest income as a percent of average interest-earning assets for the period. Net interest income is commonly presented on a tax-equivalent basis. This is to the extent that some component of the institution’s net interest income will be exempt from taxation (e.g., was received as a result of its holdings of state or municipal obligations), an amount equal to the tax benefit derived from that component is added back to the net interest income total. This adjustment is considered helpful in comparing one financial institution’s net interest income (pre-tax) to that of another institution, as each will have a different proportion of tax-exempt items in their portfolios. Moreover, net interest income

(3)The core operating efficiency ratio is itself a component of a second financialnon-GAAP measure commonly used by financial institutions, net interest margin, whichand is the ratio of net interest income to average earning assets. For purposes of this measure as well, tax-equivalent net interest income is generally used by financial institutions, again to provide a better basis of comparison from institution to institution. We follow these practices.reconciled on page 27.
(4)
Prior to the Merger, the Company was a unitary savings and loan holding company and as a result was not required to maintain or report regulatory capital ratios. The efficiency ratio represents non-interest expense divided byCompany became a bank holding company in connection with the sum of net interest incomeMerger and non-interest income. As in the case of net interest income, generally, net interest income as utilized in calculating the efficiency ratio is typically expressed on a tax-equivalent basis. Moreover, most financial institutions, in calculating the efficiency ratio, also adjust both non-interest expensehas maintained and non-interest income to exclude from these items (as calculated under generally accepted accounting principles) certain component elements, such as non-recurring charges, other real estate expense and amortization of intangibles (deducted from non-interest expense) and securities transactions and other non-recurring items (excluded from non-interest income). We follow these practices.
reported regulatory capital ratios since December 31, 2013.
(5)


The dividend payout ratio represents dividends per share divided by basic earnings per share.

38

Table of Contents

(6)
Book value per share is based on total stockholders’ equity and 44,173,470; 37,864,008; 38,262,288; 39,547,207; and 39,815,213 outstanding common shares at September 30, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. For this purpose, common shares include unallocated employee stock ownership plan shares but exclude treasury shares.

3925

Table of Contents




The following tables show the reconciliation of the core operating efficiency ratio, core net income and core earnings per share which are non-GAAP financial measures:
 For the year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010
 (Dollars in Thousands)
Net interest income$217,988
 $112,167
 $96,464
 $91,290
 $93,334
Non-interest income47,370
 27,692
 32,152
 29,951
 27,201
Total net revenues265,358
 139,859
 128,616
 121,241
 120,535
Tax equivalent adjustment on securities interest income5,628
 3,060
 3,498
 4,007
 4,186
Net (gain) on sale of securities(641) (7,391) (10,452) (10,011) (8,157)
Other than temporary loss on securities
 32
 47
 278
 
Other (other gains and fair value loss on interest rate caps)(93) 77
 (12) 197
 1,160
Core total revenues270,252
 135,637
 121,697
 115,712
 117,724
Non-interest expense208,428
 91,041
 91,957
 90,111
 83,170
Merger-related expense(9,455) (2,772) (5,925) (255) 
Charge for asset write-downs, banking systems conversion, retention and severance(26,590) (564) 
 (3,201) 
Gain on sale of financial center and redemption of TRUPs1,637
 
 
 
 
Amortization of intangible assets(9,408) (1,296) (1,245) (1,426) (1,849)
Charge on benefit plan settlement(4,095) 
 
 (1,772) 
Core non-interest expense$160,517
 $86,409
 $84,787
 $83,457
 $81,321
Core operating efficiency ratio59.4% 63.7% 69.7% 72.1% 69.1%
 For the year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010
 (Dollars in Thousands)
Income before income tax expense$37,830
 $36,668
 $26,047
 $14,546
 $27,365
Income tax expense10,152
 11,414
 6,159
 2,807
 6,873
Net income27,678
 25,254
 19,888
 11,739
 20,492
          
Net (gain) on sale of securities(641) (7,391) (10,452) (10,011) (8,157)
Gain on sale of financial center and redemption of TRUPs(1,637) 
 
 
 
Merger-related expense9,455
 2,772
 5,925
 255
 
Charge for asset write-downs, banking systems conversion, retention and severance26,591
 564
 
 3,201
 
Charge on benefit plan settlement4,095
 
 
 1,772
 
Amortization of non-compete agreements5,489
 
 
 
 
Total charges (gains)43,352
 (4,055) (4,527) (4,783) (8,157)
Income tax (benefit)(13,188) 1,245
 1,070
 923
 2,049
Total non-core charges (gains) net of taxes30,164
 (2,778) (3,457) (3,860) (6,108)
Core net income$57,842
 $22,476
 $16,431
 $7,879
 $14,384
Weighted average diluted shares80,534,043
 43,783,053
 38,248,046
 37,453.542
 38,185,122
Diluted EPS as reported$0.34
 $0.58
 $0.52
 $0.31
 $0.54
Core diluted EPS (excluding total charges)0.72
 0.51
 0.43
 0.21
 0.38
The Company believes the non-GAAP information shown above provides useful information to investors to assess the Company’s core operating performance.

26

Table of Contents





ITEM 7.Management'sManagement’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Overview
Forward-Looking Statements
We make statements in this Report, and we may from time to time make other statements, regarding our outlook or expectations for earnings, revenues, expenses and/or other financial, business or strategic matters regarding or affecting Sterling Bancorp that are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “outlook,” “target,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project” by future conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “could” or “may,” or by variations of such words or by similar expressions. These statements are not historical facts, but instead represent our current expectations, plans or forecasts and are based on the beliefs and assumptions of the management and the information available to management at the time that these disclosures were prepared.

Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks (both known and unknown) and uncertainties, and other factors which change over time. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. We specializedo not assume any duty and do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements. Because forward-looking statements are subject to assumptions, risks, uncertainties, and other factors actual results or future events could differ, possibly materially, from those that we anticipated in the delivery of service solutions to business owners, their familiesour forward-looking statements and consumers withinfuture results could differ materially from our marketplace through a team based approach. We focus our efforts on core deposit generation, especially transaction accounts and quality loan growth with emphasis on growing commercial loan balances. We seek to maintain a disciplined pricing strategy on deposit generation that will allow us to compete for high quality loans while maintaining an appropriate spread over funding costs. The Company's strategic objectives include growing revenue and earnings by expanding client acquisitions, and improving credit metrics and efficiency levels. To achieve these goals we will continue to focus on high value client segments, expand delivery channels and distribution to increase client acquisitions, execute effectively by creating a highly productive performance culture, reduce operating costs, and protectively manage enterprise risk.historical performance.

The Company'sfollowing factors, among others, could cause our future results reflect to differ materially from the plans, objectives, goals, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions expressed in the forward-looking statements:

our Company’s ability to successfully implement growth, expense reduction and other strategic initiatives and to integrate and fully realize cost savings and other benefits we estimate in connection with acquisitions generally;
continued implementation of our team based business strategy, including customer acceptance of our products and services and the perceived overall value, pricing and quality of them, compared to our competitors;
the possibility that the benefits anticipated from the HVB Merger will not be fully realized, the possibility the HVB Merger may not close, and other risks in connection with the proposed transaction and integration of HVB;
legislative and regulatory changes such as the Dodd-Frank Act and its implementing regulations that adversely affect our business, including changes in regulatory policies and principles or the interpretation of regulatory capital or other rules;
adverse publicity, regulatory actions or litigation with respect to us or other well-known companies and the financial services industry in general and a failure to satisfy regulatory standards;
the effects of and changes in monetary and fiscal policies of the implementationBoard of our strategies as a resultGovernors of our focus on strong, consistent execution. This year, we restructured the organization around markets and have hired or promoted leadership to assume the roles of market presidents. We also announced our expansion into New York City which follows through on our strategic objective of expanding our reach into the greater New York City marketplace. In addition, we have hired 6 seasoned commercial banking teams for the New York City marketplace, all with proven track records of delivering superior service to their clients, as well as restructured the legacy market teams bringing the total teams to 16. Along with the restructuring we have introduced a measurement and accountability system for the teams that align incentives with shareholder objectives.
In line with our strategies, during the month of August we acquired Gotham Bank of New York. Gotham Bank provides an attractive platform in the New York City marketplace from which to grow our franchise. The Company has also launched a new Wealth Management Services division designed to provide a full array of wealth management options to our growing and sophisticated client base. This service has already begun to fill a key need for our clients.
Our results of operations depend primarily on our net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income on our earning assets, such as loans and securities,Federal Reserve System and the interest expense paid on U.S. Government;
our depositsability to make accurate assumptions and borrowings. Resultsjudgments about an appropriate level of operations are also affected by non-interest income and expense, the provisionallowance for loan losses and income tax expense. Resultsthe collectability of operations are also significantly affected by general economic and competitive conditions, as well asour loan portfolio, including changes in marketthe level and trend of loan delinquencies and write-offs that may lead to increased losses and non-performing assets in our loan portfolio, result in our allowance for loan losses not being adequate to cover actual losses, and require us to materially increase our reserves;
our use of estimates in determining fair value of certain of our assets, which estimates may prove to be incorrect and result in significant declines in valuation;
changes in the levels of general interest rates, government policies and actions of regulatory authorities.
We continue to experience pressure on netthe relative differences between short and long term interest income as low rates, cause many assets to prepay or to be called. Many ofdeposit interest rates, our liabilities are at rates that are either fixed or already very low, so maintaining net interest margin is a function of loan growth, growthand funding sources;
changes in non-interest bearing depositsother economic, competitive, governmental, regulatory, and certain core deposits,technological factors affecting our markets, operations, pricing, products, services and continuation of fees; and
our deposit pricing discipline. Current market interest rates remain low,success at managing the risks involved in the foregoing and managing our business.

Additional factors that may have an affect our results are discussed in this Report on our reinvestment opportunities.
The following is an analysis ofForm 10-K under “Item 1A, Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Report or in other filings with the financial conditionSEC. These risks and results of the Company’s operations. This itemuncertainties should be readconsidered in conjunction with the consolidated financialevaluating forward-looking statements and related notes filed herewith in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and the description of the Company’s business filed here within Part I, Item 1, “Business.”undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. You should read such statements carefully.

Critical Accounting Policies
Our accounting and reporting policies are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and conform to general practices within the banking industry. Accounting policies considered critical to our financial results include the allowance for loan losses, accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets, accounting for deferred income taxes and the recognition of interest income.

27

Table of Contents




Allowance for Loan Losses. The methodology for determining the allowance for loan losses is considered by the Company to be a critical accounting policy due to the high degree of judgment involved, the subjectivity of the assumptions utilized and the potential for changes in the economic environment that could result in changes to the amount of the allowance for loan losses considered necessary. We evaluate our loans at least quarterly, and review their risk components, the carrying value of loans as a part of that evaluation. evaluation and the allowance is adjusted accordingly. While management uses the best information available to make evaluations, future adjustments to the allowance may be necessary if conditions differ substantially from the information used in making the evaluations. In addition, as an integral part of their examination process, our regulatory agencies periodically review the allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require us to recognize additions to the allowance based on their judgments of information available to them at the time of their examination.
See Note 1,1. “Basis of Financial Statement Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” into our “Notesnotes to Consolidated Financial Statements”the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of the risk components. We consistently review the risk components to identify any changes in trends. At September 30, 2012 Provident has
Business Combinations. The Company accounts for business combinations under the purchase method of accounting. The application of this method of accounting requires the use of significant estimates and assumptions in the determination of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in order to properly allocate purchase price consideration between assets that are amortized, accreted or depreciated from those that are recorded $28.3 million in its allowance for loan losses.as goodwill. Our estimates of the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed are based upon assumptions that we believe to be reasonable, and whenever necessary, include assistance from independent third-party appraisal and valuation firms.
Goodwill, Trade Names and Other Intangible Assets. The Company accounts for goodwill, trade names and other intangible assets in accordance with GAAP, which, in general, requires that goodwill and trade names not be amortized, but rather that itthey be tested for impairment at least annually atannually. The Company assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not (i.e., a likelihood of more than 50 percent) that the fair value of a reporting unit level usingis less than its carrying amount. In evaluating whether it is more likely than not that the two step approach.fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the Company assesses relevant events and circumstances (e.g., macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, overall financial performance and other relevant Company-specific events). If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances such as those described above, the Company determines that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then the first and second steps of the goodwill impairment test are unnecessary. Testing for impairment of goodwill, trade names and other intangible assets is performed annually and involves the identification of reporting units and the estimation of fair values. The estimation of fair values involves a high degree of judgment and subjectivity in the assumptions used. Changes in the local and national economy, the federal and state legislative and regulatory environments for financial institutions, the stock market, interest rates and other external factors (such

40

Table of Contents

as natural disasters or significant world events) may occur from time to time, often with great unpredictability, and may materially impact the fair value of publicly traded financial institutions and could result in an impairment charge at a future date.
We also use judgment in the valuation of other intangible assets. A core deposit base intangible asset has been recorded for core deposits (defined as checking, money market and savings deposits) that were acquired in acquisitions that were accounted for as purchase business combinations. The core deposit base intangible asset has been recorded using the assumption that the acquired deposits provide a more favorable source of funding than more expensive wholesale borrowings. An intangible asset has been recorded for the present value of the difference between the expected interest to be incurred on these deposits and interest expense that would be expected if these deposits were replaced by wholesale borrowings, over the expected lives of the core deposits. If we find these deposits have a shorter life than was estimated, we will write down the asset by expensing the amount that is impaired. At September 30, 2012 the Bank had $2.1 million in naming rights net of amortization included in other intangibles related to Provident Bank Ball Park and $1.6 million in mortgage servicing rights included in other assets.

Deferred Income Taxes. We use the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. If current available information raises doubt as to the realization of the deferred tax assets, a valuation allowance is established. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. We exercise significant judgment in evaluating the amount and timing of recognition of the resulting tax liabilities and assets, including projections of future taxable income. These judgments and estimates are reviewed on a continual basis as regulatory and business factors change. At September 30, 2012, Provident Bancorp has net deferred tax assets of $504,000.
Interest income. Interest income on loans, securities and other interest-earning assets is accrued monthly unless the Company considers the collection of interest to be doubtful. Loans are placed on non-accrual status upon the earlier of (i) when payments are contractually past due 90 days or more, or (ii) when we have determined that the borrower is unlikely to meet contractual principal or interest obligations, unless the assets are well secured and in the process of collection. At such time, unpaid interest is reversed by charging interest income for interest in the current fiscal year or the allowance for loan losses with respect to prior year income. Interest payments received on non-accrual loans (including impaired loans) are not recognized as income unless future collections are reasonably assured. Loans are returned to accrual status when collectability is no longer considered doubtful. At September 30, 2012, Provident has $35.4 million in loans in non-accrual status.
Comparison of Financial Condition at September 30, 2012 and September 30, 2011

Total assets as of September 30, 2012 were $4.0 billion, an increase of $885.6 million compared to September 30, 2011. Significant causes for the increase were the August acquisition of Gotham Bank whose assets totaled $431.4 million on the acquisition date, as well as, seasonal monies received from municipal tax collection activity. Core deposit and other intangibles increased $2.5 million as a result of the Gotham Bank acquisition offset by decreases in other intangibles relating to the pending sale of HVIA.

Net loans as of September 30, 2012 were $2.1 billion, an increase of $415.3 million, or 24.8%, over net loan balances of $1.7 billion at September 30, 2011. Approximately half of this increase is due to the loans acquired from Gotham Bank. Commercial real estate loans increased $369.1 million, or 52.5%, commercial business loans increased $133.4 million, or 63.5%, and ADC loans decreased $31.9 million or 18.1% to $144.1 million compared to $175.9 million as of September 30, 2011, reflecting our decision to decrease ADC lending and increase commercial lending. Consumer loans decreased by $15.2 million, or 6.8%, during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, residential loans decreased by $39.7 million, or 10.2%. Total loan originations, excluding loans originated for sale were $735.7 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, while repayments were $509.1 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. The allowance for loan loss increased from $27.9 million to $28.3 million as a result of provisions to loan losses of $10.6 million and net charge offs of $10.2 million.

Total securities increased by $303.4 million, to $1.2 billion at September 30, 2012 from $849.9 million at September 30, 2011. Security purchases were $774.7 million, sales of securities were $344.4 million, and maturities, calls, and repayments were $237.5 million.

Goodwill and other intangibles totaled $170.4 million at September 30, 2012 an increase of $4.9 million. The increase is a mainly related to the August 2012 acquisition of Gotham Bank off set by decreases relating to the pending sale of HVIA.

Depositsas of September 30, 2012 were $3.1 billion, an increase of $814.5 million, or 35.5%, from September 30, 2011. Included in deposits for September 30, 2012 were approximately $425.0 million in short-term seasonal municipal deposits compared to $284.0 million at September 30, 2011. As of September 30, 2012, transaction accounts were 44.9% of deposits, or $1.4 billion compared to $1.1 billion or 45.9% at September 30, 2011. As of September 30, 2012, savings deposits were $506.5 million, an
increase of $76.7 million or 17.8%. Money market accounts increased $312.2 million or 61.3% to $821.7 million at September 30, 2012 and certificate of deposits increased $83.8 million or 27.6% to $387.5 million.

Borrowings decreased by $29.8 million, or 8.0%, from September 2011, to $345.2 million primarily due to the maturity of the Company's FDIC guaranteed borrowing. The company restructured of $5.0 million of FHLBNY advances during the first quarter of fiscal 2012 which had a weighted average rate of 4.04 percent and duration of 1.5 years, into new borrowings with a weighted average rate of 2.37 percent, and duration of 1.6 years. Prepayment penalties of $278,500 associated with the modifications are being amortized into interest expense over the modification period on a level yield basis.

Stockholders’ equity increased $60.0 million from September 30, 2011 to $491.1 million at September 30, 2012. The increase was primarily due to an increase of $46.5 million in additional paid in capital from the issuance of 6,258,504 shares of common stock at a price of $7.35 per share . The Company received net proceeds of approximately $46.0 million. The Company's retained earnings increased $10.8 million, additionally accumulated other comprehensive income improved by $1.8 million, after realizing securities gains in fiscal year 2012 of $10.5 million. During fiscal 2012,Loans the Company did not repurchase shares of common stock under the treasury repurchase program.

As of September 30, 2012 the Company had authorization to purchase up to additional 776, 713 shares of common stock. Bank Tier I capital to assets was 7.5% at September 30, 2012. Tangible capital as a percentage of tangible assets at the holding company level was 8.3%.
Credit Quality
Nonperforming loans ("NPLs") decreased slightly to $39.8 million at September 30, 2012 compared to $40.6 million at September 30, 2011.  However, non performing loans peaked during the year at $52.0 million at March 31, 2012.  The increase primarily resulted from deteriorationacquired in our ADC portfolio combined with some increase in nonperforming commercial real estate loans.  Through a combination of restructuring and loan sales, along with partial charge-offs, we reduced the balance during the second half of the fiscal year. 
The Allowance for Loan Losses increased from $27.9 million to $28.3 million as the provisions exceeded net charge-offs by $365,000. The allowance for loan losses at September 30, 2012 was $28.3 million, 71 percent of nonperforming loans and 1.48 percent of Provident loan portfolio. Net charge-offs for the year ended September 30, 2012 were $10.2 million, or .56% of average loans, compared to net charge-offs of $19.5 million, or 1.17% of average loans for the prior year. The decrease in net charge-offs is mostly due to decreases in net charge offs in commercial business loans and ADC loans.  The prior year included $8.9 million of net charges in the ADC portfolio of which $7.5 million was from one relationship.
Our classified loans,  those rated substandard or worse, declined from $94.0 million at September 30, 2011 to $88.7 million at September 30, 2012 primarily driven by a reduction in our ADC loans commensurate with the reduction in the non performing loans from this segment.  Special mention loans, however, increased from $23.0 million at September 30, 2011 to $42.4 million at September 30 2012, driven by increases in our commercial business and commercial real estate portfolios.  The increase in the commercial business portfolio was primarily caused by a downgrade of a loan to a substantial borrower that was used to partially finance a residential housing development that has been paying according to terms.  The increase in the Commercial real estate portfolio primarily resulted from upgrades from the substandard category.

mergers are initially

4128

Table of Contents




Average Balancesrecorded at fair value which involves estimating the amount and timing of principal and interest cash flows initially expected to be collected on the loans and discounting those cash flows at an appropriate market rate of interest. The Company continues to evaluate reasonableness of expectations for the timing and amount of cash to be collected. Subsequent decreases in expected cash flows may result in changes in the amortization or accretion of fair market value adjustments, and in some cases may result in the loan being considered impaired.

General
The following discussion and analysis presents the more significant factors affecting the Company’s financial condition as of September 30, 2014 and 2013 and results of operations for each of the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 2014. The Merger was effective October 31, 2013, which significantly impacts comparisons to earlier periods. The Merger and the acquisition of Gotham Bank of New York were accounted for as purchase transactions, and accordingly, their related results of operations are included from the date of acquisition. The MD&A should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements, notes to consolidated financial statements and other information contained in this report.

On October 31, 2013, we completed the Merger of Legacy Sterling and Legacy Provident. This acquisition was consistent with our strategy of expanding in the greater New York metropolitan region and focusing on commercial banking. We believe the Merger has created a larger, more a more profitable company by combining Legacy Provident’s differentiated team-based distribution channels with Legacy Sterling’s diverse commercial and consumer lending product capabilities. The Merger has allowed us to accelerate loan growth, improve our ability to gather low cost core deposits and generate substantial cost savings and revenue enhancement opportunities.

The Merger has significantly diversified our business. Legacy Sterling was predominately a commercial & industrial lender which has complemented our loan portfolio, which was substantially collateralized by real estate. Further, Legacy Sterling provides us greater non-interest income revenue streams. On a combined basis, we anticipate greater than 20% of our total revenues will consist of non-interest income over time.

Results of Operations
In fiscal 2014, the Company reported net income of $27.7 million, or $0.34 per diluted common share, compared to net income of $25.3 million, or $0.58 per diluted common share, in fiscal 2013 and $19.9 million, or $0.52 per diluted common share in fiscal 2012. In connection with the Merger, the Company issued 39.1 million common shares, which increased weighted average diluted shares outstanding from 43.8 million in fiscal 2013 to 80.5 million in fiscal 2014.

The table below summarizes the Company’s results of operations on a tax-equivalent basis. Tax equivalent adjustments are the result of increasing income from tax-free securities by an amount equal to the taxes that would be paid if the income were fully taxable based on a 35% federal tax rate, thus making tax-exempt yields comparable to taxable asset yields.

Selected income statement data, net interest margin, return on average assets, return on average common equity and dividends per common share for the comparable periods follows:

29

Table of Contents




 For the fiscal year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
 (Dollars in Thousands)
Tax equivalent net interest income$223,616
 $115,227
 $99,962
Less tax equivalent adjustment(5,628) (3,060) (3,498)
Net interest income217,988
 112,167
 96,464
Provision for loan losses19,100
 12,150
 10,612
Non-interest income47,370
 27,692
 32,152
Non-interest expense208,428
 91,041
 91,957
Income before income tax expense37,830
 36,668
 26,047
Income tax expense10,152
 11,414
 6,159
Net income$27,678
 $25,254
 $19,888
      
Earnings per common share - basic$0.34
 $0.58
 $0.52
Earnings per common share - diluted0.34
 0.58
 0.52
Dividends per common share0.21
 0.30
 0.24
Return on assets0.41% 0.63% 0.62%
Return on common equity3.1
 5.2
 4.5
Average equity to average assets13.4
 12.8
 14.0

Net income increased $2.4 million in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013. Results in fiscal 2014 were positively impacted by the Merger and organic growth generated through our commercial banking teams. This resulted in a $108.4 million increase in tax equivalent net interest income and a $19.7 million increase in non-interest income between the periods. Results in fiscal 2014 were also impacted by merger-related expenses associated with the Merger, and charges for asset write-downs, the settlement of benefit plan obligations, costs associated with our banking systems conversion and other charges, which totaled $45.6 million. Excluding the impact of these items, net income was $57.8 million, and diluted earnings per share were $0.72 in fiscal 2014. Please refer to Item 6. “Selected Financial Data” for a reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure.

Details of the changes in the various components of net income are further discussed below.

Net Interest Income is the the difference between interest income on earning assets, such as loans and securities, and interest expense on liabilities, such as deposits and borrowings, which are used to fund those assets. Net interest income is the Company’s largest source of revenue, representing 82.1% of total revenue in fiscal 2014. Net interest margin is the ratio of taxable equivalent net interest income to average earning assets for the period. The level of interest rates and the volume and mix of earning assets and interest bearing liabilities impact net interest income and net interest margin.
The Company is primarily funded by core deposits, with non-interest bearing demand deposits being a significant source of funding. This lower cost funding base has had a positive impact on the Company’s net interest income and net interest margin and is expected to do so in a rising interest rate environment.

30

Table of Contents




The following table sets forth average balance sheets, average yields and costs, and certain other information for the years indicated. Tax exempt securities are reported on a tax-equivalent basis, using a 35% federal tax rate. All average balances are daily average balances. Non-accrual loans were included in the computation of average balances, but have been reflected in the table as loans carrying a zero yield. The yields set forth below include the effect of deferred fees, discounts and premiums that are amortized or accreted to interest income or expense.
Years Ended September 30,For the year ended September 30,
2012 2011 20102014 2013 2012
Average
Outstanding
Balance
 Interest Yield/Rate 
Average
Outstanding
Balance
 Interest Yield/Rate 
Average
Outstanding
Balance
 Interest Yield/Rate
Average
balance
 Interest Yield/Rate Average
balance
 Interest Yield/Rate Average
balance
 Interest Yield/Rate
(Dollars in thousands)(Dollars in thousands)
Interest Earning Assets:                 
Interest earning assets:                 
Loans (1)
$1,806,136
 91,010
 5.04% $1,665,360
 $89,500
 5.37% $1,656,016
 $92,542
 5.59%$4,120,749
 $202,982
 4.93% $2,216,871
 $107,810
 4.86% $1,806,136
 $91,010
 5.04%
Securities taxable778,994
 16,537
 2.12
 695,961
 14,493
 2.08
 662,914
 18,208
 2.75
1,371,703
 30,067
 2.19% 948,884
 17,509
 1.85% 778,994
 16,537
 2.12%
Securities-tax exempt188,520
 9,996
 5.30
 213,450
 11,448
 5.36
 216,119
 11,959
 5.53
Federal Reserve Bank51,351
 127
 0.25
 14,044
 32
 0.23
 20,009
 52
 0.26
Other18,901
 865
 4.58
 20,933
 1,148
 5.48
 25,007
 1,198
 4.79
Total Interest-earnings assets2,843,902
 118,535
 4.17
 2,609,748
 116,621
 4.47
 2,580,065
 123,959
 4.80
Securities tax exempt321,185
 16,081
 5.01% 174,386
 8,742
 5.01% 188,520
 9,996
 5.30%
Interest earning deposits109,626
 292
 0.27% 59,375
 193
 0.33% 51,351
 127
 0.25%
FRB and FHLB Stock56,104
 3,112
 5.55% 23,905
 867
 3.63% 18,901
 865
 4.58%
Total interest earnings assets5,979,367
 252,534
 4.22% 3,423,421
 135,121
 3.95% 2,843,902
 118,535
 4.17%
Non-interest earning assets351,397
     339,503
     333,495
    777,727
     392,188
     351,397
    
Total assets$3,195,299
     $2,949,251
     $2,913,560
    $6,757,094
     $3,815,609
     $3,195,299
    
Interest Bearing Liabilities:                 
NOW deposits$399,819
 483
 0.12
 $315,623
 595
 0.19
 $280,304
 579
 0.21
Interest bearing liabilities:                 
Demand deposits$706,160
 $571
 0.08% $466,110
 $391
 0.08% $399,819
 $483
 0.12%
Savings deposits (2)
485,624
 393
 0.08
 432,227
 444
 0.10
 397,760
 403
 0.10
622,414
 876
 0.14% 572,246
 973
 0.17% 485,624
 393
 0.08%
Money market deposits671,325
 2,194
 0.33
 489,347
 1,595
 0.33
 419,152
 1,456
 0.35
1,458,852
 5,096
 0.35% 819,442
 2,436
 0.30% 671,325
 2,194
 0.33%
Certificates of deposit289,230
 2,511
 0.87
 373,142
 3,470
 0.93
 451,509
 6,079
 1.35
554,396
 2,421
 0.44% 352,469
 2,123
 0.60% 289,230
 2,511
 0.87%
Senior debt19,136
 753
 3.93
 51,498
 2,017
 3.92
 51,495
 2,029
 3.94
Borrowings337,160
 12,239
 3.63
 371,318
 13,203
 3.56
 436,835
 15,894
 3.64
Total interest-bearing liabilities2,202,294
 18,573
 0.84
 2,033,155
 21,324
 1.05
 2,037,055
 26,440
 1.30
Senior notes(3)
98,202
 4,401
 5.98% 24,478
 1,431
 5.85% 19,136
 753
 3.93%
Other borrowings716,207
 15,553
 2.17% 422,438
 12,540
 2.97% 337,160
 12,239
 3.65%
Total interest bearing liabilities4,156,231
 28,918
 0.70% 2,657,183
 19,894
 0.75% 2,202,294
 18,573
 0.84%
Non-interest bearing deposits520,265
     472,388
     429,655
    1,580,108
     646,373
     520,265
    
Other non-interest bearing liabilities25,675
     16,418
     21,442
    114,621
     22,641
     25,675
    
Total liabilities2,748,234
     2,521,961
     2,488,152
    5,850,960
     3,326,197
     2,748,234
    
Stockholders’ equity447,065
     427,290
     425,408
    906,134
     489,412
     447,065
    
Total liabilities and Stockholders’ equity$3,195,299
     $2,949,251
     $2,913,560
    $6,757,094
     $3,815,609
     $3,195,299
    
Net interest rate spread (3)(4)
    3.33%     3.42%     3.51%    3.52%     3.20%     3.33%
Net Interest-earning assets (4)
$641,608
     $576,593
     $543,010
    
Net interest earning assets (5)
$1,823,136
     $766,238
     $641,608
    
Net interest margin (5)
  99,962
 3.51%   95,297
 3.65%   97,519
 3.78%  223,616
 3.74%   115,227
 3.37%   99,962
 3.51%
Less tax equivalent adjustment  (3,498)     (4,007)     (4,185)    (5,628)     (3,060)     (3,498)  
Net Interest income  $96,464
     $91,290
     $93,334
  
Ratio of interest-earning assets to interest bearing liabilities  129.13%     128.36% 
   126.66%  
Net interest income  $217,988
     $112,167
     $96,464
  
Ratio of interest earning assets to interest bearing liabilities  143.9%     128.8% 
   129.1%  
 
(1)Balances includeIncludes the effect of net deferred loan origination fees and costs, the allowance for the loan losses, and non accrualnon-accrual loans. Includes prepayment fees and late charges.
(2)Includes club accounts and interest-bearinginterest bearing mortgage escrow balances.
(3)Senior notes for fiscal 2014 and 2013 represent the notes issued July 2, 2013, as described in Note 8. “Borrowings and Senior Notes” in the consolidated financial statements. The balance of senior notes shown in fiscal 2012 represents FDIC insured senior unsecured debt that was repaid in February 2012.
(4)Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the tax equivalent yield on average interest-earninginterest earning assets and the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities.
(4)Net interest-earning assets represents total interest-earning assets less total interest-bearinginterest bearing liabilities.
(5)Net interest marginearning assets represents nettotal interest income (tax equivalent) divided by averageearning assets less total interest-earning assets.interest bearing liabilities.


4231

Table of Contents




The following table presents the dollar amount of changes in interest income (on a fully tax-equivalenttax equivalent basis) and interest expense for the major categories of our interest-earninginterest earning assets and interest-bearinginterest bearing liabilities. Information is provided for each category of interest-earninginterest earning assets and interest-bearinginterest bearing liabilities with respect to (i) changes attributable to changes in volume (i.e.(i.e., changes in average balances multiplied by the prior-periodprior period average rate) and (ii) changes attributable to rate (i.e., changes in average rate multiplied by prior-periodprior period average balances). For purposes of this table, changes attributable to both rate and volume, which cannot be segregated, have been allocated proportionately to the change due to volume and the change due to rate.

2012 vs. 2011 2011 vs. 20102014 vs. 2013 2013 vs. 2012
Increase (Decrease)
Due to
 
Total
Increase
 
Increase (Decrease)
Due to
 
Total
Increase
Increase (Decrease)
due to
 
Total
increase
 Increase (Decrease)
due to
 
Total
increase
Volume Rate (Decrease) Volume Rate (Decrease)Volume Rate (decrease) Volume Rate (decrease)
(Dollars in thousands)(Dollars in thousands)
Interest-earning assets:           
Interest earning assets:           
Loans$7,367
 $(5,857) $1,510
 $670
 $(3,712) $(3,042)$95,915
 $(743) $95,172
 $20,489
 $(3,689) $16,800
Securities taxable1,761
 283
 2,044
 878
 (4,593) (3,715)8,891
 3,667
 12,558
 3,269
 (2,297) 972
Securities tax exempt(1,325) (127) (1,452) (147) (364) (511)7,339
 
 7,339
 (725) (529) (1,254)
Federal Reserve Bank92
 3
 95
 (15) (5) (20)
Other earning assets(90) (193) (283) (191) 141
 (50)
Total interest-earning assets7,805
 (5,891) 1,914
 1,195
 (8,533) (7,338)
Interest-bearing           
Liabilities:           
Interest earning deposits141
 (42) 99
 22
 44
 66
FRB and FHLB Stock1,612
 633
 2,245
 180
 (178) 2
Total interest earning assets113,898
 3,515
 117,413
 23,235
 (6,649) 16,586
Interest bearing liabilities:           
NOW deposits139
 (251) (112) 73
 (57) 16
180
 
 180
 76
 (168) (92)
Savings deposits46
 (97) (51) 41
 
 41
82
 (179) (97) 79
 501
 580
Money market deposits599
 
 599
 229
 (90) 139
2,192
 468
 2,660
 456
 (214) 242
Certificates of deposit(745) (214) (959) (934) (1,675) (2,609)973
 (675) 298
 485
 (873) (388)
Senior Debt(1,269) 5
 (1,264) 
 (12) (12)
Borrowings(1,223) 259
 (964) (2,347) (344) (2,691)
Total interest-bearing liabilities(2,453) (298) (2,751) (2,938) (2,178) (5,116)
Senior notes3,378
 (408) 2,970
 247
 431
 678
Other borrowings6,508
 (3,495) 3,013
 2,764
 (2,463) 301
Total interest bearing liabilities13,313
 (4,289) 9,024
 4,107
 (2,786) 1,321
Less tax equivalent adjustment(466) (43) (509) (51) (127) (178)2,568
 
 2,568
 (245) (193) (438)
Change in net interest income$10,724
 $(5,550) $5,174
 $4,184
 $(6,228) $(2,044)$98,017
 $7,804
 $105,821
 $19,373
 $(3,670) $15,703
Net Interest Income
NetTax equivalent net interest income isin fiscal 2014 increased $108.4 million, or 94.1%, compared to fiscal 2013. The increase was the difference betweenresult of an increase in average balances in interest incomeearning assets due to the Merger and organic growth generated by our commercial banking teams. The average volume of interest earning assets increased $2.6 billion, or 74.7% in fiscal 2014 relative to the prior year. In addition, net interest margin increased 37 basis points to 3.74% in fiscal 2014 from 3.37% in fiscal 2013. The increase in net interest margin was mainly due to an increase in the yield on interest-earninginterest earning assets which was 4.22% in fiscal 2014 compared to 3.95% in fiscal 2013. The increase was principally the result of higher yielding loans acquired in the Merger and interest expense on interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest income depends ona rebalancing of earning assets from investment securities to higher yielding loans. For the relative amounts of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and the interest rates earned or paid on them, respectively.
Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended September 30, 2012 and September 30, 2011
Net income for thefiscal year ended September 30, 20122014, our securities to earning assets ratio was $19.9 million or $0.52 per diluted share. This compares to net income of $11.7 million, or $0.31 per diluted share for the year ended28.3% versus 32.8% at September 30, 2011.2013.

Interest Income. InterestTax equivalent net interest income on a tax equivalent basis for the year ended September 30, 2012 increased to $100.0$15.3 million a increase of $4.7 million, or 4.9 %,in fiscal 2013 compared to the prior year. The increase was due to an increase in average loan balances of $410.7 million to $2.2 billion, which increased interest income by $20.5 million. This was partially offset by an 18 basis points decline in the yield on loans to 4.86% in fiscal 2013 as compared to 5.04% in fiscal 2012 which reduced interest income on loans by $3.7 million. The increase in loan volume was due to organic growth generated by our commercial banking teams and our successful retention of Gotham Bank clients and interest earning assets; the decline in loan yields reflects mainly the repayment of loans originated in prior periods that were replaced with new loan originations at lower rates of interest in the current market environment.

The balance of average loans outstanding increased $1.9 billion, or 85.9% in fiscal 2014. In connection with the Merger, we acquired $1.7 billion of loans on October 31, 2013 and increased average loans outstanding during the year through organic growth. Loans accounted for 68.9% of average interest earning assets in fiscal 2014 compared to 64.8% in fiscal 2013 and 63.5% in fiscal 2012. The average yield on loans was 4.93% in fiscal 2014 compared to 4.86% in fiscal 2013 and 5.04% in fiscal 2012.


32





Tax equivalent interest income on securities increased $19.9 million, or 75.8% in fiscal 2014, which was mainly the result of an increase of $569.6 million, or 50.7% in the average balance of securities over the period. In connection with the Merger, we acquired $607.9 million of securities on October 31, 2013. The tax equivalent yield on securities was 2.73% in fiscal 2014 compared to 2.34% in fiscal 2013 and 2.74% in fiscal 2012. The increase in tax equivalent yield in fiscal 2014 was mainly due to the proportion of tax exempt securities which comprised 19.0% of average securities in fiscal 2014 compared to 15.5% in fiscal 2013 and a rebalancing of the securities portfolio due to the Merger, which increased the yield on taxable securities in fiscal 2014 to 2.19% compared to 1.85% in fiscal 2013. The 40 basis point decline in the tax equivalent yield on securities between fiscal 2012 and 2013 was due to overall declines in market rates of interest.

Average interest-earningdeposits increased $2.1 billion, or 72.3% in fiscal 2014 and were $4.9 billion compared to $2.9 billion in fiscal 2013 and $2.4 billion in fiscal 2012. The increase in the average balance of deposits was mainly due to the Merger, as we assumed $2.3 billion in deposits on October 31, 2013. Average interest bearing deposits increased $1.1 billion, or 51.2%, in fiscal 2014 and $364.3 million, or 19.7%, in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012. Average non-interest bearing deposits increased $933.7 million and were $1.6 billion in fiscal 2014 compared to $646.4 million in fiscal 2013 and $520.3 million in fiscal 2012. The average cost of interest bearing deposits was 0.27% in fiscal 2014 and 2013 and was 0.30% in fiscal 2012. The cost of deposits reflects the current low interest rate environment.

Average borrowings increased $367.5 million, or 82.2% in fiscal 2014 and were $814.4 million compared to $446.9 million in fiscal 2013 and $356.3 million in fiscal 2012. The increase in average borrowings in fiscal 2014 was required to fund loan growth and included the $100.0 million of senior notes issued in connection with the Merger. Average borrowings also included $25.7 million of subordinated debentures which were redeemed in June 2014. The average cost of borrowings was 2.45% for fiscal 2014 compared to 3.13% in fiscal 2013 and 3.65% in fiscal 2012. The decline in the average cost of borrowings between the periods was mainly due to an increase in short-term FHLB borrowings as a percentage of total average borrowings.

Provision for Loan Losses. The provision for loan losses is determined by the Company as the amount to be added to the allowance for loan losses after net charge-offs have been deducted to bring the allowance to a level that is the Company’s best estimate of probable incurred credit losses inherent in the outstanding loan portfolio. The provision for loan losses totaled $19.1 million in fiscal 2014 compared to $12.2 million in fiscal 2013 and $10.6 million in fiscal 2012. See the section captioned “Loans - Provision for Loan Losses” elsewhere in this discussion for further analysis of the provision for loan losses.

Non-interest income. The components of non-interest income were as follows:
 For the year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
 (Dollars in Thousands)
Accounts receivable management / factoring commissions and other related fees$13,146
 $
 $
Mortgage banking income8,086
 1,979
 1,897
Deposit fees and service charges15,595
 10,964
 11,377
Net gain on sale of securities641
 7,391
 10,452
Bank owned life insurance3,080
 1,998
 2,050
Investment management fees2,209
 2,413
 3,143
Other4,613
 2,947
 3,233
Total non-interest income$47,370
 $27,692
 $32,152


33





Non-interest income was $47.4 million in fiscal 2014, compared to $27.7 million in fiscal 2013 and $32.2 million in fiscal 2012. Included in non-interest income is net gain on sale of securities which was $641 thousand in fiscal 2014, compared to $7.4 million in fiscal 2013 and $10.5 million in fiscal 2012. Net gain on sale of securities is impacted significantly by changes in market interest rates and strategies we use to manage liquidity and interest rate risk. Excluding net gain on sale of securities, non-interest income was $46.7 million in fiscal 2014 compared to $20.3 million in fiscal 2013 and $21.7 million in fiscal 2012. The main driver of growth between fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2014 were fees generated in accounts receivable management and mortgage banking income as a result of the Merger. Our goal is to grow non-interest income excluding securities gains to over 20% of net interest income plus non-interest income excluding securities gains. This ratio was 17.7% in fiscal 2014 compared to 15.3% in fiscal 2013 and 18.4% in fiscal 2012.

Accounts receivable management / factoring commissions and other related fees represents fees generated in our factoring and payroll finance businesses. In factoring, we receive a nonrefundable factoring fee, which is generally a percentage of the factored receivables or sales volume and is designed to compensate us for the bookkeeping and collection services provided and, if applicable, the credit review of the client’s customer and assumption of customer credit risk. In payroll finance, we provide outsourcing support services for clients in the temporary staffing industry. We generate fee income in exchange for providing full back-office, payroll, tax and accounting services to independently-owned temporary staffing companies. Accounts receivable management / factoring commissions and other related fees totaled $13.1 million in fiscal 2014.

Mortgage banking income represents mortgage banking and brokerage business conducted through loan production offices located principally in New York City and through our financial centers. The Merger substantially increased our mortgage banking volume; mortgage banking revenue was $8.1 million in fiscal 2014 compared to $2.0 million in fiscal 2013 and $1.9 million in fiscal 2012.

Deposit fees and service charges increased by $5.6 million to $15.6 million in fiscal 2014, as the average balance of deposits increased by $2.1 billion over average balances in fiscal 2013. The decline in deposit fees and service charges of $413 thousand in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012 was mainly caused by a change in the composition of our deposits, as deposits gathered by our commercial banking teams are generally higher balance deposits but typically generate lower levels of fees and service charges than retail deposits.

Bank owned life insurance(“BOLI”) income represents the change in the cash surrender value of life insurance policies owned by the Bank. BOLI income increased by $1.1 million and was $3.1 million in fiscal 2014, as we acquired Legacy Sterling’s BOLI balances in connection with the Merger. The decrease in BOLI income between fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 was due to a decline in the interest crediting rate we receive from the insurance carriers given the current low interest rate environment.

Investment management fees principally represent fees from the sale of mutual funds and annuities and were $2.2 million in fiscal 2014 compared to $2.4 million in fiscal 2013 and $3.1 million in fiscal 2012. In fiscal 2012, we sold the assets of our former subsidiary that was active in the investment management business. We commenced a new wealth management initiative in fiscal 2013 focused on partnering with a third-party vendor to deliver wealth management products through our financial centers and commercial banking teams.

Other non-interest income principally includes loan servicing revenues, miscellaneous loan fees earned, letter of credit fees, and safe deposit box rentals. Other non-interest income increased by $1.7 million to $4.6 million in fiscal 2014 as a result of the Merger.


34





Non-interest expense. The components of non-interest expense were as follows:

 For the fiscal year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
 (Dollars in Thousands)
Compensation and employee benefits$94,310
 $47,833
 $46,038
Stock-based compensation plans3,703
 2,239
 1,187
Occupancy and office operations27,726
 14,953
 14,457
Amortization of intangible assets9,408
 1,296
 1,245
FDIC insurance and regulatory assessments6,146
 3,010
 3,096
Other real estate owned expense(237) 1,562
 1,618
Merger-related expense9,455
 2,772
 5,925
Other57,917
 17,376
 18,391
Total non-interest expense$208,428
 $91,041
 $91,957

Non-interest expense in fiscal 2014 increased $117.4 million to $208.4 million compared to $91.0 million fiscal 2013 and $92.0 million in fiscal 2012. The changes in the various components of non-interest expense between fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 were mainly the result of the Merger, which significantly increased the Company’s personnel, facilities and operating expense base. The decline in non-interest expense between fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013 is mainly due to lower merger-related expenses. Merger-related expenses in fiscal 2012 of $5.9 million included expenses related to due diligence, restructuring costs and other charges in connection with the acquisition of Gotham Bank in August 2012.

Compensation and employee benefits in fiscal 2014 increased $46.5 million, or 97.2% to $94.3 million compared to $47.8 million in the prior year. At September 30, 2014, we had 21 commercial banking teams, as compared to September 30, 2013 and 2012 when we had 16 commercial banking teams. Our full-time equivalent employees were 836 at September 30, 2014 compared to 477 at September 30, 2013 and 493 at September 30, 2012. The increase in personnel in fiscal 2014 was due to the Merger. The decline in personnel between fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013 was the result of operational efficiencies generated by the acquisition of Gotham Bank and the consolidation of several financial centers.

Included in compensation and employee benefits expense are expenses associated with the Company’s defined benefit pension plan and ESOP plan. During fiscal 2014, we merged the Legacy Provident defined benefit pension plan and the Legacy Sterling defined benefit pension plan and settled $44.8 million of the merged plan benefit obligations through the purchase of annuities for certain retirees. We also terminated the Company’s ESOP plan in fiscal 2014. Compensation and employee benefits expense in fiscal 2014 included a charge of $3.9 million on the purchase of the annuities referenced above.

Stock-based compensation plans were $3.7 million in fiscal 2014 compared to $2.2 million in fiscal 2013 and $1.2 million in fiscal 2012. The increase in fiscal 2014 was mainly due to an increase in personnel due to the Merger. The increase between fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013 was mainly due to a shift in our compensation plans which increased the proportion of stock-based compensation to total compensation for key personnel and the number of key personnel receiving stock-based compensation.

For additional information related to the Company’s employee benefit plans and stock-based compensation, see Note 11. “Employee Benefit Plans and Stock-Based Compensation Plans” in the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Report.

Occupancy and office operations increased $12.8 million to $27.7 million in fiscal 2014 compared to $15.0 million in fiscal 2013 and $14.5 million in fiscal 2012. The increase between fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2014 was due to an increase in financial centers and other locations acquired in the Merger. As discussed below, we moved certain financial center locations to other real estate owned and are actively marketing these properties and other leased locations with the objective of reducing our occupancy and office operations expense over time.


35





Amortization of intangible assets mainly includes amortization of core deposit intangible assets and non-compete agreements. Amortization of intangible assets increased $8.1 million to $9.4 million in fiscal 2014 compared to $1.3 million in fiscal 2013 and $1.2 million in fiscal 2012. The increase in fiscal 2014 was a result of core deposit intangibles and non-compete agreement intangibles recorded in connection with the Merger. Amortization of intangible assets is expected to be $6.1 million in fiscal 2015. See Note 6. “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” in the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Report.

FDIC insurance and regulatory assessments expense increased $3.1 million and was $6.1 million in fiscal 2014 compared to $3.0 million in fiscal 2013 and $3.1 million in fiscal 2012. The increase in deposit insurance and regulatory fees in fiscal 2014 was due to the Merger as these assessments are mainly based on the average balance of total assets on a quarterly basis. The decline during fiscal 2013 relative to fiscal 2012 was mainly due to a change in the deposit insurance assessment base.

Other real estate owned expense (“OREO”) includes maintenance costs, taxes, insurance, write-downs (subsequent to any write-down at the time of foreclosure or transfer to OREO), and gains and losses from the disposition of OREO. OREO includes real estate assets foreclosed and financial center locations that are held for sale. OREO expense declined $1.8 million in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 and declined $56 thousand in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012. The net benefit of $237 thousand in fiscal 2014 was due to a $925 thousand gain on the sale of a financial center location that was acquired in the Merger.

Merger-related expense was $9.5 million in fiscal 2014, $2.8 million in fiscal 2013 and $5.9 million in fiscal 2012. Merger-related expense in fiscal 2013 included due diligence costs and financial advisor fees only, which were incurred due to the Merger. Merger-related expense in fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2012 included due diligence, restructuring costs and other charges incurred in connection with the Merger and the acquisition of Gotham Bank, respectively.

Other non-interest expense for fiscal 2014 increased $40.5 million to $57.9 million compared to $17.4 million in fiscal 2013 and $18.4 million in fiscal 2012. Included in other non-interest expense for fiscal 2014 were charges of $26.6 million that included asset write-downs to consolidate our financial center and other locations, retention and severance payments and charges incurred on the conversion of our banking systems. Excluding these charges, other non-interest expense was $31.3 million in fiscal 2014 compared to $17.4 million in fiscal 2013 and $18.4 million in fiscal 2012. Other non-interest expense mainly includes professional fees, data processing, insurance, communications, advertising, supplies, loan processing and postage. The increase in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 was principally due to the Merger.

Income Tax expense was $10.2 million for fiscal 2014, compared to $11.4 million for fiscal 2013, and $6.2 million for fiscal 2012. This represented an effective tax rate of 26.8%, 31.1%, and 23.6%, respectively. The effective income tax rates differed from the 35% federal statutory rate during the periods primarily due to the effect of tax exempt income from securities and BOLI income. The effective tax rate in fiscal 2014 was the result of a higher proportion of income being tax exempt given the Merger-related expenses and other charges detailed above. The higher effective tax rate recognized in fiscal 2013 was mainly the result of Merger-related expenses incurred that were fully non-tax deductible and a higher proportion of taxable vs. non-taxable income versus fiscal 2012.

Sources and Uses of Funds
The following table illustrates the mix of the Company’s funding sources and the assets in which those funds are invested as a percentage of the Company’s total assets for the year endedperiod indicated. Average assets totaled $6.8 billion in fiscal 2014 compared to $3.8 billion in fiscal 2013 and $3.2 billion in fiscal 2012.

36





 For the fiscal year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Sources of Funds:     
Non-interest bearing deposits23.4% 17.0% 16.3%
Interest bearing deposits49.5
 57.9
 57.8
FHLB and other borrowings10.4
 11.1
 10.5
Subordinated debentures0.2
 
 
Senior notes1.4
 0.6
 0.6
Other non-interest bearing liabilities1.7
 0.6
 0.8
Stockholders’ equity13.4
 12.8
 14.0
Total100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
      
Uses of Funds:     
Loans61.0% 58.1% 56.5%
Securities25.1
 29.4
 30.3
Interest bearing deposits1.6
 1.6
 1.6
FHLBNY and FRB stock0.8
 0.6
 0.6
Other non-interest earning assets11.5
 10.3
 11.0
Total100.0% 100.0% 100.0%

General. Deposits, borrowings, repayments and prepayments of loans and securities, proceeds from sales of loans and securities, proceeds from maturing securities and cash flows from operations are our primary sources of funds for use in lending, investing and for other general corporate purposes. Average deposits increased $2.1 billion, or 72.3%, in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 and increased $490.3 million, or 20.7% in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012. Non-interest bearing deposits and low cost deposits are a significant source of our funding, and generating and maintaining these deposits through our commercial banking teams and financial centers is key to our strategy. Average non-interest bearing deposits were 32.1% of total average deposits in fiscal 2014 compared to 22.6% in fiscal 2013 and 22.0% in fiscal 2012.

The Company primarily invests funds in loans and securities. Average loans increased $1.9 billion, or 85.9% compared to fiscal 2013 and increased $410.7 million, or 22.7% in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012. Average securities increased $569.6 million or 50.7% in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 and increased $155.8 million or 16.1% in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012.

37





Loans
The following table sets forth the composition of our loan portfolio, excluding loans held for sale, by type of loan at the periods indicated.
 September 30,
 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010
 Amount % Amount % Amount % Amount % Amount %
 (Dollars in thousands)
Commercial:                   
Commercial & industrial$1,164,537
 24.5% $434,932
 18.0% $343,307
 16.2% $209,923
 12.3% $217,927
 12.8%
Payroll finance145,474
 3.1
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Warehouse lending192,003
 4.0
 4,855
 0.2
 
 
 
 
 
 
Factored receivables181,433
 3.8
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equipment finance393,027
 8.3
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total commercial2,076,474
 43.7
 439,787
 18.2
 343,307
 16.2
 209,923
 12.3
 217,927
 12.8
Commercial mortgage:                   
Commercial real estate1,449,052
 30.4
 969,490
 40.2
 896,746
 42.3
 592,201
 34.8
 535,227
 31.5
Multi-family368,524
 7.7
 307,547
 12.7
 175,758
 8.3
 111,155
 6.6
 44,005
 2.5
Acquisition, development & construction92,149
 1.9
 102,494
 4.2
 144,061
 6.8
 175,931
 10.3
 231,258
 13.6
Total commercial mortgage1,909,725
 40.0
 1,379,531
 57.1
 1,216,565
 57.4
 879,287
 51.7
 810,490
 47.6
Residential mortgage570,431
 12.0
 400,009
 16.6
 350,022
 16.5
 389,765
 22.9
 434,900
 25.5
Consumer203,808
 4.3
 193,571
 8.1
 209,578
 9.9
 224,824
 13.1
 238,224
 14.1
Total loans4,760,438
 100.0% 2,412,898
 100.0% 2,119,472
 100.0% 1,703,799
 100.0% 1,701,541
 100.0%
Allowance for loan losses(40,612)   (28,877)   (28,282)   (27,917)   (30,843)  
Total loans, net$4,719,826
   $2,384,021
   $2,091,190
   $1,675,882
   $1,670,698
  

Overview. Total loans increased $2.3 billion to $4.7 billion at September 30, 20122014 compared to $2.4 billion at September 30, 2013. Prior to fiscal 2014, the Bank’s loan portfolio was concentrated in real estate loans, mainly commercial mortgages, residential mortgages and other consumer loans collateralized by real estate. In connection with the Merger, the Bank became a national bank and more evenly balanced its loan portfolio between commercial loans and real estate loans. At September 30, 2014, commercial loans comprised 43.7% of the loan portfolio compared to 18.2% at September 30, 2013 and commercial mortgage loans comprised 40.0% of the loan portfolio, compared to 57.1% a year ago.

General. Our commercial banking teams focus on the origination of commercial loans and commercial mortgage loans. We also originate residential mortgage loans and consumer loans such as home equity lines of credit, homeowner loans and personal loans in our market area. We sell many of the residential mortgage loans we originate and we enter into loan participations in some commercial loans for portfolio management purposes.

Loan Approval/Authority and Underwriting. The Board has established the Credit Risk Committee (the “CRC”) a sub-committee of the Company’s Enterprise Risk Committee, to oversee the lending functions of the Bank. The CRC oversees the performance of the Bank’s loan portfolio and its various components, assists in the development of strategic initiatives to enhance portfolio performance, and considers loans for approval and recommendation to the Board.

The Senior Credit Committee (the “SCC”) consists of the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Banking Officer, Chief Credit Officer, and other senior lending personnel. The SCC is authorized to approve all loans within the legal lending limit of the Bank.

The SCC may also authorize lending authority to individual Bank officers for both single and dual initial approval authority. Other than overdrafts, the only single initial lending authorities are for credit secured small business loans up to $250,000 and up to $500,000 if secured by residential property.

We have established a risk rating system for our commercial & industrial loans, commercial real estate loans and ADC loans. The risk rating system assesses a variety of factors to rank the risk of default and risk of loss associated with the loan. These ratings are assessed by commercial credit personnel who do not have responsibility for loan originations. We determine our maximum loan-to-one-borrower limits based on the rating of the loan and the relative risk associated with the borrower’s portfolio type.


38





In connection with our residential mortgage and commercial real estate loans, we generally require property appraisals to be performed by independent appraisers who are approved by the Board. Appraisals are then reviewed by the appropriate loan underwriting areas. Under certain conditions, appraisals may not be required for loans under $250,000 or in other limited circumstances. We also require title insurance, hazard insurance and, if indicated, flood insurance on property securing mortgage loans. Title insurance is not required for consumer loans under $100,000, such as home equity lines of credit and homeowner loans and in connection with certain residential mortgage refinances.

Commercial & Industrial Lending. We make various types of secured and unsecured commercial & industrial loans to small and medium-sized businesses in our market area including loans collateralized by assets, such as accounts receivable, inventory, marketable securities, other liquid collateral, equipment and other assets. The terms of these loans generally range from less than one year to seven years. The loans are either structured on a fixed-rate basis or carry adjustable interest rates indexed to a lending rate that is determined internally, or a short-term market rate index. At September 30, 2014, commercial loans totaled $2.1 billion, or 43.7% of our total loan portfolio.

In the Merger, we acquired the following commercial lending businesses:

Payroll Finance Lending. The Bank provides financing and human resource business process outsourcing support services to the temporary staffing industry. The Bank provides full back-office, computer and tax accounting services, and financing to independently-owned staffing companies located throughout the United States. Loans typically are structured as an advance used by our clients to fund their payroll and are outstanding on average for 40 to 45 days.

Warehouse Lending. The Bank provides residential mortgage warehouse funding services to mortgage bankers. These loans consist of a line of credit used by the mortgage banker as a form of temporary financing during the period between the closing of a mortgage loan until its sale into the secondary market, which typically lasts from 15 to 30 days. The Bank provides warehouse lines ranging from $5 million to $35 million. The warehouse lines are collateralized by high quality first mortgage loans, which include mainly conventional Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, jumbo and FHA loans.

Factored Receivables Lending. We provide accounts receivable management services. The purchase of a client’s accounts receivable is traditionally known as “factoring” and results in payment by the client of a nonrefundable factoring fee, which is generally a percentage of the factored receivables or sales volume and is designed to compensate the Bank for the bookkeeping and collection services provided and, if applicable, its credit review of the client’s customer and assumption of customer credit risk. When the Bank “factors” (i.e., purchases) an account receivable from a client, it records the receivable as an asset (included in “Gross loans” ), records a liability for the funds due to the client (included in “Other liabilities”) and credits to non-interest income the nonrefundable factoring fee (included in “Accounts receivable management/factoring commissions and other fees”). The Bank also may advance funds to its client prior to the collection of receivables, charging interest on such advances (in addition to any factoring fees) and normally satisfying such advances by the collection of receivables. The accounts receivable factoring is primarily for clients engaged in the apparel and textile industries.

Equipment Finance Lending. The Bank offers equipment financing across the United States through direct lending programs, third-party sources and vendor programs. The Bank finances full payout leases and secured loans for various types of business equipment, generally written on a recourse basis—with personal guarantees of the principals, with terms generally ranging from 24 to 60 months.

The above four categories of loans acquired in the Merger, plus our commercial & industrial loans are referred to as commercial loans in the discussion below.

Underwriting of a commercial loan is based on an assessment of the applicant’s willingness and ability to repay in accordance with the proposed terms, as well as an overall assessment of the risks involved. This includes an evaluation of the applicant to determine character and capacity to manage. Personal guarantees of the principals are generally required, except in the case of certain factored receivables the Bank accepts on a non-recourse basis from publicly owned and not-for-profit corporations. In addition to an evaluation of the loan applicant’s financial statements, we analyze the adequacy of the primary and secondary sources of repayment to be relied upon in the transaction. Credit agency reports of the applicant’s credit history supplement the analysis of the applicant’s creditworthiness. Checking with other banks and trade investigations may also be conducted. Collateral supporting a secured transaction also is analyzed to determine its marketability.

Commercial Real Estate and Multi-Family Lending. We originate real estate loans secured predominantly by first liens on commercial real estate and multi-family properties. The underlying collateral of our commercial real estate loans consists of multi-family properties, retail properties including shopping centers and strip centers, office buildings, nursing homes, industrial and warehouse properties, hotels, motels, restaurants, and schools. To a lesser extent, we originate commercial real estate loans for medical use, non-profits, gas stations

39





and other categories. We may, from time to time, purchase commercial real estate loan participations. At September 30, 2014, loans secured by commercial real estate and multi-family properties totaled $1.8 billion, or 38.2% of our total loan portfolio. Substantially all of our commercial real estate loans are secured by properties located in our primary market area.

The majority of our commercial real estate loans have a term of ten years and are structured as five-year fixed rate loans with a rate adjustment for the second five-year period or as ten-year fixed-rate loans. Amortization on these loans is typically based on 20 to 25 year terms with balloon maturities generally in five or ten years. Interest rates on commercial real estate loans generally range from 200 basis points to 300 basis points above a reference index.

In the underwriting of commercial real estate loans, we generally lend up to 75% of the appraised value. Decisions to lend are based on the economic viability of the property and the creditworthiness of the borrower. In evaluating a proposed commercial real estate loan, we primarily emphasize the ratio of the projected net cash flow to the debt service requirement (generally targeting a minimum ratio of 120%), computed after deductions for a vacancy factor and property expenses we deem appropriate. In addition, a personal guarantee of the loan or a portion thereof is generally required from the principal(s) of the borrower, except for loans secured by multi-family properties, which meet certain debt service coverage and loan to value thresholds. We require title insurance insuring the priority of our lien, fire and extended coverage casualty insurance, and flood insurance, if appropriate, in order to protect our security interest in the underlying property.

Commercial real estate loans typically involve significant loan balances concentrated with single borrowers or groups of related borrowers. In addition, the payment experience on loans secured by income-producing properties typically depends on the successful operation of the related real estate project and may be subject to adverse conditions in the real estate market and in the general economy. For commercial real estate loans in which the borrower is a significant tenant, repayment experience also depends on the successful operation of the borrower’s underlying business.
Acquisition, Development and Construction Lending. We originate acquisition, development and construction (“ADC”) loans to selected builders in our market area. Since 2011, the Company has deemphasized this lending activity and we currently originate ADC loans on an exception basis.

ADC loans help finance the purchase of land intended for further development, including single-family homes, multi-family housing, and commercial income properties. Historically, we have made an acquisition loan before the borrower received approval to develop the land as planned; however, we did not originate any such loans in fiscal 2014 or 2013. In general, the maximum loan-to-value ratio for a land acquisition loan is 50% of the appraised value of the property, although higher loan-to-value ratios may be allowed for certain borrowers we deem to be lower risk. We also fund development loans to builders in our market area to finance improvements to real estate, consisting mainly of single-family subdivisions, typically to finance the cost of utilities, roads, sewers and other development costs. Builders generally rely on the sale of single-family homes to repay development loans, although in some cases the improved building lots may be sold to another builder. The maximum loan amount is generally limited to the cost of the improvements plus limited approval of soft costs subject to an overall loan-to-value limitation. In general, we do not originate loans with interest reserves. Advances are made in accordance with a schedule reflecting the cost of the improvements.

We also make construction loans to finance the cost of completing homes on the improved property. Advances on construction loans are made in accordance with a schedule reflecting the cost of construction. Repayment of construction loans on residential subdivisions is normally expected from the sale of units to individual purchasers except in cases of owner occupied construction loans. In the case of income-producing property, repayment is usually expected from permanent financing upon completion of construction. We provide permanent mortgage financing on most of our construction loans on income-producing property. Collateral coverage and risk profile are maintained by restricting the number of model or speculative units in each project.

ADC lending exposes us to greater credit risk than permanent mortgage financing. The repayment of ADC loans generally depends on the sale of the property to third parties or the availability of permanent financing upon completion of all improvements. In the event we make an acquisition loan on property that is not yet approved for the planned development, there is the risk that approvals will not be granted or will be delayed. These events may adversely affect the borrower and the collateral value of the property. Development and construction loans also expose us to the risk that improvements will not be completed on time in accordance with specifications and projected costs. In addition, the ultimate sale or rental of the property may not occur as anticipated.

Large Credit Relationships. The Company originates and maintains large credit relationships with numerous commercial customers in the ordinary course of business. The Company considers large credit relationships to be those with commitments equal to or in excess of $10.0 million, prior to any portion being sold. Large relationships also include loan participations purchased if the credit relationship

40





with the agent is equal to or in excess of $10.0 million. In addition to the Company’s normal policies and procedures related to the origination of large credits, the Senior Credit Committee of the Bank must approve all new and renewed credit facilities which are part of large credit relationships. The Senior Credit Committee meets regularly and reviews large credit relationship activity and discusses the current loan pipeline, among other things. The following table provides additional information on the Company’s large credit relationships outstanding at September 30:
 2014 2013
Number of
Relationships
 Period end balances 
Number of
Relationships
 Period end balances
 Committed Outstanding  Committed Outstanding
 (Dollars in Thousands)
Committed amount:           
$20.0 million and greater45 $1,256,487
 $681,187
 4
 $92,630
 $87,261
$10.0 million to $19.9 million78 1,055,628
 835,360
 48
 613,865
 543,933

The average commitment per large credit relationship in excess of $20.0 million totaled $27.9 million at September 30, 2014 and $23.2 million at September 30, 2013. The average outstanding balance per large credit relationship with a commitment in excess of $20.0 million totaled $15.1 million at September 30, 2014 and $21.8 million at September 30, 2013. The average commitment per large credit relationship between $10.0 million and $19.9 million totaled $13.5 million at September 30, 2014 and $12.8 million at September 30, 2013. The average outstanding balance per large credit relationship with a commitment between $10 million and $19.9 million totaled $10.7 million at September 30, 2014 and $11.3 million at September 30, 2013.

Industry concentrations. As of September 30, 2014 and 2013, there were $2.8 billion, an increaseno concentrations of $234.2loans within any single industry in excess of 10% of company total loans, as segregated by Standard Industrial Classification code (“SIC code”). The SIC code is a federally designed standard industrial numbering system used by the Company to categorize loans by the borrower’s type of business. The majority of the Bank’s loans are to borrowers located in the greater New York metropolitan region. The Bank has no foreign loans.

Residential Mortgage Lending. We offer conforming and non-conforming, fixed-rate and adjustable-rate (“ARM”) residential mortgage loans with maturities up to 30 years and maximum loan amounts generally up to $4.0 million that are fully amortizing with monthly or bi-weekly loan payments. Our residential mortgage loan portfolio totaled $570.4 million, or 9.0%, over average interest-earning assets for the year ended12.0% of our total loan portfolio at September 30, 2011. Average2014.

Residential mortgage loans are generally underwritten according to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines for loans they designate as acceptable for purchase. Loans that conform to such guidelines are referred to as “conforming loans.” We generally originate fixed-rate loans in amounts up to the maximum conforming loan balances increasedlimits as established by $140.8 million,Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which are currently $417 thousand in many locations in the continental U.S. and are $625.5 thousand in high-cost areas such as New York City and surrounding counties. Private mortgage insurance is generally required for loans with loan-to-value ratios in excess of 80%. The Bank operates a residential mortgage banking and brokerage business through offices located in the greater New York Metropolitan area, Virginia, and other mid-Atlantic states. In order to manage our exposure to rising interest rates, we sell the majority of our conforming fixed rate residential mortgage loans, in the secondary market to nationally known entities including government sponsored entities such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

We also originate loans above conforming limits, referred to as “jumbo loans,” which have been underwritten to substantially the same credit standards as conforming loans. These loans are generally intended to be held in our residential mortgage loan portfolio. Our bi-weekly residential mortgage loans result in shorter repayment schedules than conventional monthly mortgage loans, and are repaid through an automatic deduction from the borrower’s savings or checking account. We retained the servicing rights on a portion of loans sold; however, in fiscal 2014 the majority of loans sold were sold with servicing rights released. As of September 30, 2014, residential mortgage loans serviced for others, excluding loan participations, totaled approximately $234.4 million. Effective October 1, 2013, we transferred the servicing function for residential mortgage loans we own and service for others to a nationally recognized mortgage loan servicer.

We currently offer several ARM loan products secured by residential properties with rates that are fixed for a period ranging from six months to ten years. After the initial term, if the loan is not already refinanced, the interest rate on these loans generally resets every year based upon a contractual spread or margin above the average balances atyield on U.S. Treasury securities, adjusted to a constant maturity of one year, as published weekly by the Federal Reserve Bank increased $37.3 millionBoard and average balances of other earning assets decreased by $2.0 million, primarily FHLB stock. On a tax-equivalent basis, average yieldssubject to certain periodic and lifetime limitations on interest earning assets decreased by 30 basis pointsrate changes. Many of the borrowers who select these loans have shorter-term credit needs than those who select long-term, fixed-rate loans. ARM

41





loans generally pose different credit risks than fixed-rate loans primarily because the underlying debt service payments of the borrowers rise as interest rates rise, thereby increasing the potential for default.

We require title insurance on all of our residential mortgage loans, and we also require that borrowers maintain fire and extended coverage or all risk casualty insurance (and, if appropriate, flood insurance) in an amount at least equal to 4.17%the lesser of the loan balance or the replacement cost of the improvements, but in any event in an amount calculated to avoid the effect of any coinsurance clause. Residential mortgage loans generally are required to have a mortgage escrow account from which disbursements are made for the year ended real estate taxes and for hazard and flood insurance.

Consumer Lending. We originate a variety of consumer loans, including homeowner loans, home equity lines of credit, new and used automobile loans, and personal unsecured loans, including fixed-rate installment loans and variable lines of credit. As of September 30, 2012, from 4.47% for2014, consumer loans totaled $203.8 million, or 4.3%, of the year ended total loan portfolio.

We offer fixed-rate, fixed-term second mortgage loans, referred to as homeowner loans, and we also offer adjustable-rate home equity lines of credit secured by junior liens on residential properties. As of September 30, 2011.2014, homeowner loans totaled $23.9 million or 0.5% of our total loan portfolio. The primary reasons for the decrease in asset yields are declines in general market interest rates on new lending activity, and the saledisbursed portion of securities with subsequent reinvestmenthome equity lines of credit totaled $59.9 million, or 3.4%, of our total loan portfolio at lower yields.
Interest income on loans for the year ended September 30, 2012 increased $1.52014, with $99.0 million to $91.0 million from $89.5 million forremaining undisbursed.

Loan Portfolio Maturities and Yields. The following table summarizes the prior fiscal year. Interest income on commercial loans for the year ended scheduled repayments of our loan portfolio at September 30, 2012 increased to $61.2 million,2014. Demand loans, loans having no stated repayment schedule or maturity, and overdraft loans are reported as compared to commercialbeing due in one year or less. Weighted average rates are computed based on the rate of the loan interest incomeat September 30, 2014.
 Less than one year One to five years Over five years Total
 Amount Rate Amount Rate Amount Rate Amount Rate
 (Dollars in thousands)
Commercial:               
Commercial & industrial$696,389
 4.13% $362,907
 3.90% $105,241
 4.12% $1,164,537
 4.06%
Payroll finance145,474
 9.00
 
 
 
 
 145,474
 9.00
Warehouse lending192,003
 3.34
 
 
 
 
 192,003
 3.34
Factored receivables181,433
 5.00
 
 
 
 
 181,433
 5.00
Equipment financing21,296
 4.26
 338,369
 4.38
 33,362
 4.30
 393,027
 4.37
Total commercial1,236,595
 4.71
 701,276
 4.13
 138,603
 4.16
 2,076,474
 4.48
Commercial mortgage:               
Commercial real estate114,678
 4.83
 654,341
 4.37
 680,033
 4.47
 1,449,052
 4.45
Multi-family14,153
 5.14
 174,188
 3.88
 180,183
 4.04
 368,524
 4.01
Acquisition, development & construction44,259
 4.36
 38,187
 4.29
 9,703
 3.40
 92,149
 4.23
Total commercial mortgage173,090
 4.74
 866,716
 4.27
 869,919
 4.37
 1,909,725
 4.35
Residential mortgage8,855
 4.81
 36,148
 4.59
 525,428
 4.22
 570,431
 4.25
Consumer4,274
 13.82
 9,343
 6.52
 190,191
 4.14
 203,808
 4.45
Total loans$1,422,814
 4.74% $1,613,483
 4.23% $1,724,141
 4.28% $4,760,438
 4.40%


42





The following table sets forth the prior fiscal year. Average balancescomposition of commercialfixed-rate and adjustable-rate loans at September 30, 2014 that are contractually due after September 30, 2015:
 Fixed Adjustable Total
 (Dollars in thousands)
Commercial & industrial$284,166
 $183,982
 $468,148
Equipment financing371,731
 
 371,731
Commercial real estate733,681
 600,693
 1,334,374
Multi-family171,339
 183,032
 354,371
Acquisition, development & construction7,053
 40,837
 47,890
Residential mortgage284,811
 276,765
 561,576
Consumer28,553
 170,981
 199,534
Total loans$1,881,334
 $1,456,290
 $3,337,624

All payroll finance, warehouse lending and factored receivables are contractually due within 12 months.

43





grew $173.4Delinquent Loans, Troubled Debt Restructuring, Impaired Loans, Other Real Estate Owned and Classified Assets

Loan Portfolio Delinquencies. The following table sets forth certain information on our loan portfolio delinquencies at the dates indicated.
 Loans delinquent for    
 30-89 Days 
90 days or more still
accruing & non-accrual
 Total
 Number Amount Number Amount Number Amount
 (Dollars in thousands)
At September 30, 2014:           
Commercial & industrial15 $9,359
 8 $4,324
 23 $13,683
Payroll finance1 99
 2 346
 3 445
Factored receivables 
 2 370
 2 370
Equipment finance2 851
 1 262
 3 1,113
Commercial real estate6 4,281
 36 10,966
 42 15,247
Multi-family 
 2 131
 2 131
Acquisition, development & construction1 56
 21 12,361
 22 12,417
Residential mortgage41 6,059
 97 16,460
 138 22,519
Consumer48 4,574
 61 5,743
 109 10,317
 114 $25,279
 230 $50,963
 344 $76,242
At September 30, 2013:           
Commercial & industrial5 $180
 8 $789
 13 $969
Commercial real estate8 4,335
 26 8,769
 34 13,104
Acquisition, development & construction2 768
 11 5,420
 13 6,188
Residential mortgage6 621
 52 9,316
 58 9,937
Consumer14 566
 28 2,612
 42 3,178
Total35 $6,470
 125 $26,906
 160 $33,376
At September 30, 2012:           
Commercial & industrial7 $237
 2 $344
 9 $581
Commercial real estate7 1,875
 30 10,453
 37 12,328
Acquisition, development & construction9 7,067
 29 15,404
 38 22,471
Residential Mortgage10 1,352
 56 11,314
 66 12,666
Consumer22 1,816
 21 2,299
 43 4,115
Total55 $12,347
 138 $39,814
 193 $52,161
At September 30, 2011:           
Commercial & industrial2 $490
 3 $243
 5 $733
Commercial real estate4 1,105
 34 13,214
 38 14,319
Acquisition, development & construction4 4,265
 24 16,984
 28 21,249
Residential mortgage8 1,212
 40 7,976
 48 9,188
Consumer20 794
 26 2,150
 46 2,944
Total38 $7,866
 127 $40,567
 165 $48,433
At September 30, 2010:           
Commercial & industrial2 $3,403
 6 $1,376
 8 $4,779
Commercial real estate4 1,469
 26 9,857
 30 11,326
Acquisition, development & construction2 6,681
 11 5,730
 13 12,411
Residential mortgage1 113
 36 8,033
 37 8,146
Consumer27 681
 22 1,844
 49 2,525
Total36 $12,347
 101 $26,840
 137 $39,187


44





Collection Procedures for Residential and Commercial Mortgage Loans and Consumer Loans. A late payment notice is generated after the 16th day of the loan payment due date requesting the payment due plus any late charge assessed. Legal action, notwithstanding ongoing collection efforts, is generally initiated after 90 days of the original due date for failure to make payment. Unsecured consumer loans are generally charged-off after 120 days. For commercial loans, procedures vary depending on individual circumstances.

Past Due, Non-Performing Loans, Non-Performing Assets (Risk Elements). The table below sets forth the amounts and categories of our non-performing assets at the dates indicated.
 September 30,
 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010
 (Dollars in thousands)
Non-accrual loans:         
Commercial & industrial$4,324
 $500
 $344
 $243
 $1,376
Factored receivables370
 
 
 
 
Equipment finance262
 
 
 
 
Commercial real estate10,445
 5,573
 7,319
 11,225
 6,886
Multi-family131
 1,622
 1,496
 
 
Acquisition, development & construction12,361
 5,420
 15,404
 16,538
 5,730
Residential mortgage15,926
 7,484
 9,051
 7,485
 6,080
Consumer5,743
 2,208
 1,830
 986
 1,341
Accruing loans past due 90 days or more1,401
 4,099
 4,370
 4,090
 5,427
Total non-performing loans50,963
 26,906
 39,814
 40,567
 26,840
OREO7,580
 6,022
 6,403
 5,391
 3,891
Total non-performing assets$58,543
 $32,928
 $46,217
 $45,958
 $30,731
TDRs accruing and not included above$17,653
 $23,895
 $14,077
 $8,470
 $16,047
Ratios:         
Non-performing loans to total loans1.07% 1.12% 1.87% 2.38% 1.58%
Non-performing assets to total assets0.80
 0.81
 1.15
 1.46
 1.02

Loans are reviewed on a regular basis and are placed on non-accrual status upon the earlier of (i) when full payment of principal or interest is in doubt, or (ii) when either principal or interest is 90 days or more past due, unless the loan is well secured and in the process of collection. Interest accrued and unpaid at the time a loan is placed on non-accrual status is reversed against interest income. Interest payments received on non-accrual loans are generally applied to the principal balance of the outstanding loan. However, based on an assessment of the borrower’s financial condition and payment history, an interest payment may be applied to interest income on a cash basis. Appraisals are performed at least annually on classifieds loans. At September 30, 2014, we had non-accrual loans of $49.6 million, and we had $1.4 million of loans 90 days past due and still accruing interest which were well secured and in the process of collection. At September 30, 2013, we had non-accrual loans of $22.8 million and $4.1 million of loans 90 days past due and still accruing interest.

Non-performing loans (“NPLs”) increased $24.1 million to $1.2 billion, with a 47 basis point decrease in the average yield. Prime rate remained$51.0 million at 3.25% during fiscal year 2012. Commercial loans adjustable with the prime rate totaled $354.7September 30, 2014 compared to $26.9 million at September 30, 2012. Interest income on consumer2013. Included in this increase are $3.8 million of loans decreased to $10.1 million, as compared to consumer loan interest income of $10.5 million for the prior fiscal year. Average balances of consumer loans decreased $11.9 million to $221.4 million, with a increase of 5 basis pointsacquired in the average yield. ConsumerMerger that were identified as purchased credit impaired loans, adjustable withof which $1.5 million were commercial & industrial loans, $2.1 million were residential mortgage loans and $139 thousand were commercial real estate loans. Non-performing loans in the prime rate totaled $162.2ADC portfolio increased by $6.9 million in fiscal 2014 to $12.3 million; the increase consisted of three loans which are well secured and one loan which has performed as expected in fiscal 2014. We continue to actively manage and reduce outstanding balances in the ADC portfolio. Residential mortgage non-performing loans increased $8.4 million and consumer non-performing loans increased $3.5 million at September 30, 2012. Income earned2014 as compared to September 30, 2013. This increase is mainly attributed to the extended period of time necessary to foreclose on residential mortgages in New York state. In fiscal 2014, we outsourced all residential mortgage servicing activities to a third-party vendor, which we anticipate will allow us to better service our residential mortgage portfolio and reduce non-performing balances over time.

Troubled Debt Restructuring. The Company has formally modified loans was $19.7to certain borrowers who experienced financial difficulty. If the terms of the modification include a concession, as defined by GAAP, the loan is considered a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”), which are also considered impaired loans. Nearly all of these loans are secured by real estate. Total TDRs were $29.6 million at September 30, 2014, of which $11.9 million were non-accrual and $17.7 million were performing according to terms and still accruing interest income. TDRs still accruing interest income are loans modified for borrowers that have experienced one or more financial

45





difficulties and are still performing in accordance with the terms of their loan prior to the modification. Loan modifications include actions such as extension of maturity date or the lowering of interest rates and monthly payments. As of September 30, 2014, there were no commitments to lend additional funds to borrowers with loans that have been modified.

Other Real Estate Owned. Real estate acquired as a result of foreclosure or by deed in lieu of foreclosure is classified as OREO until such time as it is sold. In addition, financial centers that were closed or consolidated due to the Merger that are held for sale are also classified as OREO. When real estate is transfered to OREO, it is recorded at the lower of our investment in the loan/asset or fair value less cost to sell. If the fair value less cost to sell is less than the loan balance, the difference is charged against the allowance for loan losses. If the fair value of a financial center that we hold for sale is less than its prior carrying value, we recognize a charge included in other operating expense to reduce the recorded value of the investment to fair value, less costs to sell. At September 30, 2014, we had 34 OREO properties with a recorded balance of $7.6 million. After transfer to OREO, we regularly update the fair value of the property. Subsequent declines in fair value are charged to current earnings and included in other non-interest expense as part of OREO expense.

Classification of Assets. Our policies, consistent with regulatory guidelines, provide for the classification of loans and other assets that are considered to be of lesser quality such 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 Bank will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. Assets classified as “doubtful” have all of the weaknesses inherent in those classified as “substandard” with the added characteristic that the weaknesses 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 is not warranted and are charged-off. Assets that do not expose us to risk sufficient to warrant classification in one of the aforementioned categories, but which possess potential weaknesses that deserve our close attention, are designated as “special mention”. As of September 30, 2014, we had $39.6 million of assets designated as “special mention”.

Our determination as to the classification of our assets and the amount of our loan loss allowance are subject to review by our regulators, which can order the establishment of an additional valuation allowance. Management regularly reviews our asset portfolio to determine whether any assets require classification in accordance with applicable regulations. On the basis of management’s review of our assets at September 30, 2014, classified assets consisted of loans of $73.1 million, OREO of $5.2 million and $2.9 million of private label mortgage-backed securities.

For the year ended September 30, 2012, down $1.9 million, from2014, gross interest income that would have been recorded had the non-accrual loans at the end of the year remained on accrual status throughout the year amounted to approximately $1.5 million. Interest income actually recognized on such loans totaled $425 thousand.

Allowance for Loan Losses. We believe the allowance for loan losses is critical to the understanding of our financial condition and results of operations. Selection and application of this “critical accounting policy” involves judgments, estimates, and uncertainties that are susceptible to change. In the event that different assumptions or conditions were to occur, and depending upon the severity of such changes, materially different financial conditions or results of operations is a reasonable possibility. In addition, as an integral part of their examination process, our regulatory agencies periodically review our allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require us to recognize additions to the allowance based on their judgments of information available to them at the time of their examination.

We maintain our allowance for loan losses at a level that the Company believes is adequate to absorb probable losses inherent in the existing loan portfolio based on an evaluation of the collectibility of loans, underlying collateral, geographic and other concentrations, and prior yearloss experience. We use a risk rating system for all commercial loans, including commercial real estate loans, to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. With this system, each loan, with the exception of those included in large groups of smaller-balance homogeneous loans, is risk rated between one and ten, by credit administration, loan review or loan committee, with one being the best case and ten being a loss or the worst case. Loans with risk ratings between seven and nine are monitored more closely by the credit administration team and may result in specific valuation allowances. We calculate an average loss experience by loan type that is a twelve quarter average for commercial loans and eight quarter average for consumer loans. To the loss experience, we apply individual qualitative loss factors that result in an overall loss factor at an appropriate level for the allowance for loan losses for a particular loan type. These qualitative loss factors are determined by management, based on historical loss experience for the applicable loan category, and are adjusted to reflect our evaluation of:

levels of, and trends in, delinquencies and non-accruals;
trends in volume and terms of loans;
effects of any changes in lending policies and procedures;

46





experience, ability, and depth of lending management and staff;
national and local economic trends and conditions;
concentrations of credit by such factors as location, industry, inter-relationships, and borrower; and
for commercial loans, trends in risk ratings.

The allowance for loan losses also includes an element for estimated probable but undetected losses. The Company analyzes loans by two broad segments or classes: real estate secured loans and loans that are either unsecured or secured by other collateral. The segments or classes considered real estate secured are: residential mortgage loans; commercial real estate loans; multi-family loans; ADC loans; homeowner loans; and home equity lines of credit. The segments or classes considered unsecured or secured by other than real estate collateral are: commercial & industrial loans, including payroll finance; warehouse lending; factored receivables; and equipment finance and consumer loans. Commercial loan segments and residential mortgage loans over $500,000 are reviewed for impairment once they are past due 90 days or more. If a resultloan is deemed to be impaired in one of refinancing activitythe real estate secured segments, and it is anticipated that our ultimate source of repayment will be through foreclosure and sale of the underlying collateral, it is generally considered collateral dependent. If the value of the collateral securing a collateral dependent impaired loan is less than the carrying value of the loan, a charge-off is recognized equal to the difference between the appraised value and the book value of the loan. In addition, included in impairment losses are charges recognized for estimated costs to hold and to liquidate the collateral. The ranges for the costs to hold and liquidate are 12-22% for the following segments: commercial real estate, residential and ADC loans and 7-13% for homeowner loans and home equity lines of credit.

For loans in the consumer segment,we charge-off the full amount of the loan when it becomes 90 to 120 days or more past due, or earlier in the case of bankruptcy, after giving effect to any cash or marketable securities pledged as collateral for the loan. For loans in the commercial & industrial loan segment, we conduct a cash flow projection, and charge-off the difference between the net present value of the cash flows discounted at lowerthe effective note rate and the carrying value of the loan, and generally recognize an additional impairment reserve to account for the imprecision of our estimates. 

ADC lending exposes us to greater credit risk than permanent mortgage financing. The repayment of ADC loans depends on the sale of the property to third parties or the availability of permanent financing upon completion of all improvements. In the event we make an acquisition loan on property that is not yet approved for the planned development, there is the risk that approvals will not be granted or will be delayed. These events may adversely affect the borrower and the collateral value of the property. ADC loans also expose us to the risk that improvements will not be completed on time in accordance with specifications and projected costs. In addition, the ultimate sale or rental of the property may not occur as anticipated. All of these factors are considered as part of the underwriting, structuring and pricing of the loan. We have deemphasized this type of loan.

Commercial real estate loans subject us to the risks that the property securing the loan may not generate sufficient cash flow to service the debt or the borrower may use the cash flow for other purposes. In addition, the foreclosure process, if necessary, may be slow and properties may deteriorate in the process. The market values are also subject to a wide variety of factors, including general economic conditions, industry specific factors, environmental factors, interest rates and lower outstanding average balances.the availability and terms of credit.

Tax-equivalent interest incomeCommercial & industrial lending also exposes us to risk because repayment depends on securities, balancesthe successful operation of the business which is subject to a wide range of risks and uncertainties. In addition, the ability to successfully liquidate collateral, if any, is subject to a variety of risks because we must gain control of assets used in the borrower’s business before foreclosing, which we cannot be assured of doing, and the value in a foreclosure sale or other means of liquidation may be uncertain.


47





Allowance for Loan Losses. The following table sets forth activity in our allowance for loan losses for the years indicated.
 For the year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010
 (Dollars in thousands)
Balance at beginning of period$28,877
 $28,282
 $27,917
 $30,843
 $30,050
Charge-offs:         
Commercial & industrial(2,901) (1,354) (1,526) (5,400) (6,578)
Payroll finance(758) 
 
 
 
Warehouse lending
 
 
 
 
Factored receivables(211) 
 
 
 
Equipment finance(1,074) 
 
 
 
Commercial real estate(741) (3,285) (2,682) (1,752) (984)
Multi-family(418) (440) (25) (50) (3)
Acquisition, development & construction(1,479) (3,422) (4,124) (8,939) (848)
Residential mortgage(963) (2,547) (2,551) (2,140) (749)
Consumer(786) (2,009) (1,901) (1,989) (1,168)
Total charge-offs(9,331) (13,057) (12,809) (20,270) (10,330)
Recoveries:         
Commercial & industrial1,073
 410
 1,116
 605
 670
Payroll finance
 
 
 
 
Warehouse lending
 
 
 
 
Factored receivables9
 
 
 
 
Equipment finance194
 
 
 
 
Commercial real estate161
 567
 528
 2
 23
Multi-family92
 10
 
 
 
Acquisition, development & construction
 182
 299
 10
 261
Residential mortgage323
 101
 356
 15
 3
Consumer114
 232
 263
 128
 166
Total recoveries1,966
 1,502
 2,562
 760
 1,123
Net charge-offs(7,365) (11,555) (10,247) (19,510) (9,207)
Provision for loan losses19,100
 12,150
 10,612
 16,584
 10,000
Balance at end of period$40,612
 $28,877
 $28,282
 $27,917
 $30,843
Ratios:         
Net charge-offs to average loans outstanding0.24% 0.52% 0.56% 1.17% 0.56%
Allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans80
 107
 71
 69
 115
Allowance for loan losses to total loans0.85
 1.20
 1.33
 1.64
 1.81

The allowance for loan losses increased from $28.9 million to $40.6 million as the provision for loan losses exceeded net charge-offs by $11.7 million. The allowance for loan losses at Federal Reserve BankSeptember 30, 2014 represented 79.7% of non-performing loans and other earning assets increased to $27.5 million0.85% of the total loan portfolio. Net charge-offs for the year ended September 30, 2012,2014 were $7.4 million, or 0.24% of average loans, compared to $27.1net charge-offs of $11.6 million, for the prior year. This was due to a tax-equivalent decreaseor 0.52% of 22 basis points in yields. The Company sold $344.4 million in securities and recorded $10.5 million in gains on the sales. Further during fiscal 2012, proceeds totaling $237.5 million in security maturities and repayments were reinvested at current market rates with a minor increase in duration.

Interest Expense. Interest expense for the year ended September 30, 2011 decreased by $2.8 million to $18.6 million, a decrease of 12.9% compared to interest expense of $21.3 million for the prior fiscal year. The decrease in interest expense was primarily due to the decreases in balances on average borrowings as well as lower rates paid on interest bearing deposits at September 30, 2012. Rates paid on interest bearing liabilities decreased to 0.84% from 1.05% in fiscal 2011. The average interest rate paid on certificates of deposit decreased by 6 basis points to 0.87% for the year ended September 30, 2012, from 0.93%loans for the prior year. The rates paid on NOW accounts decreased 7 basis points for fiscal 2012decrease in net charge-offs as compareda percentage of average loans was mostly due to fiscal 2011. The average cost of borrowings increased to 3.63% at September 30, 2012 from 3.56%improved collateral values and performance in 2011, average balances decreased by $34.2 million. Further, during the year, the bank restructured $5.0 million in FHLB advancesour commercial real estate and paid $278,000 in prepayment fees as part of the modification.ADC loans.

Net Interest Income for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 was $96.5 million, compared to $91.3 million for the year ended September 30, 2011. The tax equivalent net interest margin decreased by 14 basis points to 3.51%, while the net interest spread decreased by 9 basis points to 3.33%. The main components of this decrease relates to the fact that the Bank's cash position throughout the year was higher than normal, and that cash was placed in lower yielding investments. Additionally, the loans originated during the year were at lower yields than the historical weighted book yield.

Provision for Loan Losses. We recorded $10.6$19.1 million in loan loss provisions for the year ended September 30, 20122014 compared to $16.6$12.2 million in the prior year, a decreasean increase of $6.0approximately $7 million. We decreased the provision due to decreased net charge-offs, which were $10.2 million for the year ended September 30, 2012, compared to $19.5 millionLoans acquired in the previous year.The ADCMerger were initially recorded at fair value and in accordance with GAAP did not carry an allowance for loan segment continues to experience higher levels of charge offs in comparison tolosses at the other segmentsacquisition date. In fiscal 2014, we recorded provision for loan losses as a result of organic growth and renewed loans from the slow moving real estate market. The remaining charge offs were concentratedLegacy Sterling acquired portfolio. Provision for loan losses was $12.2 million in write downsfiscal 2013, an increase of mortgage secured non performing loans based on declining appraisal values. Prior year netapproximately $1.5 million as compared to fiscal 2012. Net charge-offs were at an all time high due to recording $8.9 million of charges in the ADCloan portfolio including $7.5were $11.6 million in one relationship, as sale activity in residential housing subdivisions dropped sharply in the second half of fiscal year 2011.

During the year, our special mention loans increased from $23.0 million at September 30, 2011 to $42.4 million at September 30, 2012, while our substandard and doubtful loans decreased from $94.0 million to $88.7 million, respectively. All significant loans classified substandard or special mention are reviewed for impairment. As a result of our review we may establish a specific reserve, which totaled $3.2 million at September 30, 2012. A specific reserve is established when current information indicates that the carrying value of a loan is probably not recoverable, but there is sufficient uncertainty about the actual occurrence of a loss, or the amount thereof.

Non-interest income was $32.2 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 20122013 compared to $29.9$10.2 million at September 30, 2011. Income on securities sales, deposit fees and service charges, investment management fees, net increases in the cash surrender value of bank-owned life insurance (“BOLI”) contracts, and net gains on the sale of loans made up the majority of non interest income. During the year ended September 30, 2012, the Company recorded gains on sales of investment securities totaling $10.5 million compared to $10.0 million for the prior year. Deposit fees and service charges increased by $566,000, or 5.24%. During fiscal 2012 the Company originated and sold $80.6 million in residential mortgage loans and recorded $1.9 million in gains compared to $49.8 million in loans sold with $1.0 million in gains at September 30, 2011.


44


Non-interest expense for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 increased by $1.8 million, or 2.0% to $92.0 million, compared to $90.1 million for the same period in 2011. The largest components of non-interest expense consists primarily of salaries and employee benefits, occupancy and office expenses, merger related expense and professional fees. The increase was primarily attributable to merger expense of $5.9 million related to the acquisition of Gotham Bank and increased compensation and employee benefits of $2.4 million to $46.0 compared to $43.7 in the prior year. These increases were off set by decreases of $1.5 million to advertising and promotion and prior year restructuring charges of $3.2 million and deferred benefit settlement / CEO transition charges of $1.8 million.

Income Taxes. Income tax expense was $6.2 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 compared to $2.8 million for fiscal 2011, representing effective tax rates of 23.65% and 19.29%, respectively. The lower tax rate in 2011 was primarily due to the high proportion of tax-free income, BOLI and insurance relative to the total levels of pre-tax income.

Comparison of Financial Condition at September 30, 2011 and September 30, 2010

Total assets as of September 30, 2011 were $3.1 billion, an increase of $116.4 million compared to September 30, 2010. Cash and due from banks increased $190.6 million to $281.5 million at September 30, 2011 due primarily to deposits received on September 30, 2011 and high levels of balances maintained at the Federal Reserve in 2011 due to municipal tax collection activity. Core deposit and other intangibles increased by $1.0 million resulting from naming rights acquired on Provident Ballpark stadium. Goodwill was unchanged. The Company had $4.2 million in loans held for sale as of September 30, 2011 and $5.9 million at September 30, 2010. Premises and equipment decreased $2.7 million primarily related to depreciation and amortization exceeding new investment in premises and equipment.

Net loans as of September 30, 2011 were $1.7 billion, an increase of $5.2 million, or 0.3%, over net loan balances of $1.7 billion at September 30, 2010. Commercial real estate loans increased $124.1 million, or 21.4%, and ADC loans decreased $55.3 million or 23.9% to $175.9 million compared to $231.3 million as of September, 2010. Consumer loans decreased by $13.4 million, or 5.6%, during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011, residential loans decreased by $45.1 million, or 10.4%. Total loan originations, excluding loans originated for sale were $578.6 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011, while repayments were $553.2 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011. The allowance for loan loss decreased from $30.8 million to $27.9 million as a result of provisions to loan losses of $16.6 million and net charge offs of $19.5 million. There were increases in the reserves for ADC, commercial business loans and home equity lines of credit, with decreases in commercial real estate and residential mortgages. The variances were driven by modifications in reserve factors as well as changes in loan balances.

Total securities decreased by $85.0 million, to $849.9 million at September 30, 2011 from $934.9 million at September 30, 2010. Securities purchases were $716.3 million, sales of securities were $540.5 million, and maturities, calls, and repayments were $269.0 million.

Goodwill and other intangibles totaled $165.5 million at September 30, 2011 an increase of $989,000. The increase is a result of Provident Bank entering into a naming rights contract for $2.4 million in May 2011 partially offset by amortization.

Deposits as of September 30, 2011 were $2.3 billion, an increase of $154.0 million, or 7.2%, from September 30, 2010. Included in deposits for September 30, 2011 were approximately $284.0 million in short-term seasonal municipal deposits compared to $212.0 million at September 30, 2010. As of September 30, 2011 transaction accounts were 45.9% of deposits, or $1.1 billion compared to $945.5 million or 44.1% at September 30, 2010. As of September 30, 2011, savings deposits were $429.8 million, an increase of $37.5 million or 9.56%. Money market accounts increased $82.1 million or 19.2% to $509.5 million at September 30, 2011. Offsetting the increases in savings and money market accounts was a decrease of $73.9 million, or 19.6% in certificates of deposits as the Company, while maintaining competitive rate structures, did not compete with the highest pricing in the market place. The Company attributes the change in mix and net increases to customers unwilling to place significant amounts of deposits in term maturities in the current rate environment as well as the success of its marketing efforts.
Borrowings decreased by $40.2 million, or 9.7%, from September 2010, to $375.0 million. The decrease is related to the borrowings being paid down by maturing investment securities and deposits.
Stockholders’ equity increased $179,000 from September 30, 2010 to $431.1 million at September 30, 2011. The increase was due to $2.8 million increase in the Company’s retained earnings and a $12,000 improvement in accumulated other comprehensive income, after realizing securities gains in the fiscal year of $10.0 million. During fiscal 2011, the Company repurchased 457,454 shares of its common stock at a cost of $3.8 million under the treasury repurchase program and issued a net 47,046 shares from its stock based compensation plans.

45


As of September 30, 2011 the Company had authorization to purchase up to additional 776, 713 shares of common stock. Bank Tier I capital to assets was 8.14% at September 30, 2011. Tangible capital as a percentage of tangible assets at the holding company level was 8.94%.
Credit Quality
The Allowance for Loan Losses decreased from $30.8 million to $27.9 million as net charge-offs exceeded provisions by $3.0 million . Net charge-offs for the year ended September 30, 2011 were $19.4 million, or 1.17% of average loans, compared to net charge-offs of $9.2 million, or .56% of average loans for the prior year. The increase in net charge-offs came about as we recorded $8.9 million of charges in our ADC portfolio, including $7.5 million in one relationship. Sales activity in a residential housing subdivision dropped sharply in the second half of the year, causing us to re-evaluate cash flow expectations and collateral values in the related projects. We also experienced net charge-offs of $4.6 million in the C&I portion of our Community Business Loan portfolio and $2.3 million in our Residential Mortgage Loan portfolio. During September 2011 we completed the sale of $1.2 million in non performing residential mortgages, which accounted for $1.1 million of the residential charge-off total.

Non-performing Loans increased from $26.8 million to $40.6 million primarily driven by an increase in the ADC portfolio of $11.3 million. As at September 30, 2011, non performing loans consisted of ADC loans of $17.0 million, Commercial mortgages including CBL of $13.2 million, residential mortgages of $8.0 million, consumer of $2.2 million and $243,000 in commercial business loans. In addition, other real estate owned consisted of 17 properties totaling $5.4 million dollars. However, we were able to reduce classified (substandard/doubtful) loans during the year from $132.1 million at September 30, 2010 to $94.0 million at September 30 2011. Loans carried as criticized (special mention) similarly went from $37.9 million down to $23.0 million at September 30 2011.

Impaired loans increased from $42.1 million at September 30, 2010 to $55.0 million at September 30, 2011. At September 30, 2011 impaired loans with no related valuation allowance totaled $35.2 million and impaired loans with a valuation allowance were $19.8 million before specific reserves of $3.8 million. Included in impaired loans are $9.3 million of Troubled Debt Restructured Loans at September 30, 2011 that are in performing status compared to $16.0 million at prior fiscal year end. The decrease was caused by moving the ADC relationship referred to above to non-performing status offset in part by new troubled debt restructure.


46


Average Balances
The following table sets forth average balance sheets, average yields and costs, and certain other information for the years indicated. Tax-exempt securities are reported on a tax-equivalent basis, using a 35% federal tax rate. All average balances are daily average balances. Non-accrual loans were included in the computation of average balances, but have been reflected in the table as loans carrying a zero yield. The yields set forth below include the effect of deferred fees, discounts and premiums that are amortized or accredited to interest income or expense.
 Years Ended September 30,
 2011 2010 2009
 
Average
Outstanding
Balance
 Interest Yield/Rate 
Average
Outstanding
Balance
 Interest Yield/Rate 
Average
Outstanding
Balance
 Interest Yield/Rate
 (Dollars in thousands)
Interest Earning Assets:                 
Loans (1)
$1,665,360
 $89,500
 5.37% $1,656,016
 $92,542
 5.59% $1,700,383
 $97,149
 5.71%
Securities taxable695,961
 14,493
 2.08% 662,914
 18,208
 2.75% 592,071
 25,552
 4.32%
Securities-tax exempt213,450
 11,448
 5.36% 216,119
 11,959
 5.53% 194,028
 11,569
 5.96%
Federal Reserve Bank14,044
 32
 0.23% 20,009
 52
 0.26% 56,639
 144
 0.25%
Other20,933
 1,148
 5.48% 25,007
 1,198
 4.79% 27,061
 1,225
 4.53%
Total Interest-earnings assets2,609,748
 116,621
 4.47% 2,580,065
 123,959
 4.80% 2,570,182
 135,639
 5.28%
Non-interest earning assets339,503
     333,495
     325,322
    
Total assets$2,949,251
     $2,913,560
     $2,895,504
    
Interest Bearing Liabilities:                 
NOW deposits$315,623
 595
 0.19% $280,304
 579
 0.21% $232,164
 670
 0.29%
Savings deposits (2)
432,227
 444
 0.10% 397,760
 403
 0.10% 366,355
 758
 0.21%
Money market deposits489,347
 1,595
 0.33% 419,152
 1,456
 0.35% 374,507
 2,707
 0.72%
Certificates of deposit373,142
 3,470
 0.93% 451,509
 6,079
 1.35% 577,723
 14,240
 2.46%
Senior Debt51,498
 2,017
 3.92% 51,495
 2,029
 3.94% 32,730
 1,269
 3.88%
Borrowings371,318
 13,203
 3.56% 436,835
 15,894
 3.64% 496,884
 18,076
 3.64%
Total interest-bearing liabilities2,033,155
 21,324
 1.05% 2,037,055
 26,440
 1.30% 2,080,363
 37,720
 1.81%
Non-interest bearing deposits472,388
     429,655
     380,571
    
Other non-interest bearing liabilities16,418
     21,442
     18,683
    
Total liabilities2,521,961
     2,488,152
     2,479,617
    
Stockholders’ equity427,290
     425,408
     415,887
    
Total liabilities and Stockholders’ equity$2,949,251
     $2,913,560
     $2,895,504
    
Net interest rate spread (3)
    3.42%     3.51%     3.46%
Net Interest-earning assets (4)
$576,593
     $543,010
     $489,819
    
Net interest margin (5)
  95,297
 3.65%   97,519
 3.78%   97,919
 3.81%
Less tax equivalent adjustment  (4,007)     (4,185)     (4,049)  
Net Interest income  $91,290
     $93,334
     $93,870
  
Ratio of interest-earning assets to interest bearing liabilities  128.36%     126.66%     123.54%  
(1)Balances include the effect of net deferred loan origination fees and costs, the allowance for the loan losses, and non accrual loans. Includes prepayment fees and late charges.
(2)
Includes club accounts and interest-bearing mortgage escrow balances.
(3)Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the tax equivalent yield on average interest-earning assets and the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities.
(4)Net interest-earning assets represents total interest-earning assets less total interest-bearing liabilities.
(5)Net interest margin represents net interest income (tax equivalent) divided by average total interest-earning assets.


47


The following table presents the dollar amount of changes in interest income (on a fully tax-equivalent basis) and interest expense for the major categories of our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. Information is provided for each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities with respect to (i) changes attributable to changes in volume (i.e., changes in average balances multiplied by the prior-period average rate) and (ii) changes attributable to rate (i.e., changes in average rate multiplied by prior-period average balances). For purposes of this table, changes attributable to both rate and volume, which cannot be segregated, have been allocated proportionately to the change due to volume and the change due to rate.
 2011 vs. 2010 2010 vs. 2009
 
Increase (Decrease)
Due to
 
Total
Increase
 
Increase (Decrease)
Due to
 
Total
Increase
 Volume Rate (Decrease) Volume Rate (Decrease)
 (Dollars in thousands)
Interest-earning assets:           
Loans$670
 $(3,712) $(3,042) $(2,546) $(2,061) $(4,607)
Securities taxable878
 (4,593) (3,715) 2,786
 (10,130) (7,344)
Securities tax exempt(147) (364) (511) 1,260
 (870) 390
Federal Reserve Bank(15) (5) (20) (98) 6
 (92)
Other earning assets(191) 141
 (50) (127) 100
 (27)
Total interest-earning assets1,195
 (8,533) (7,338) 1,275
 (12,955) (11,680)
Interest-bearing           
Liabilities:           
NOW deposits73
 (57) 16
 121
 (212) (91)
Savings deposits41
 
 41
 63
 (418) (355)
Money market deposits229
 (90) 139
 286
 (1,537) (1,251)
Certificates of deposit(934) (1,675) (2,609) (2,662) (5,499) (8,161)
Senior Debt
 (12) (12) 740
 20
 760
Borrowings(2,347) (344) (2,691) (2,182) 
 (2,182)
Total interest-bearing liabilities(2,938) (2,178) (5,116) (3,634) (7,646) (11,280)
Less tax equivalent adjustment(51) (127) (178) 441
 (305) 136
Change in net interest income$4,184
 $(6,228) $(2,044) $4,468
 $(5,004) $(536)
Analysis of Net Interest Income
Net interest income is the difference between interest income on interest-earning assets and interest expense on interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest income depends on the relative amounts of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and the interest rates earned or paid on them, respectively.
Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended September 30, 2011 and September 30, 2010
Net income for the year ended September 30, 2011 was $11.7 million or $0.31 per diluted share. This compares to net income of $20.5 million, or $0.54 per diluted share for the year ended September 30, 2010.
Interest Income. Interest income on a tax equivalent basis for the year ended September 30, 2011 decreased to $116.6 million, a decrease of $7.3 million, or 5.9%, compared to the prior year. The decrease was primarily due to declines in general market interest rates on new lending activity, impact of loans being classified as non accrual, sales of taxable securities in which gains of $9.7 million were realized and the proceeds reinvested at lower rates. Average interest-earning assets for the year ended September 30, 2011 were $2.6 billion, an increase of $29.7 million, or 1.2%, over average interest-earning assets for the year ended September 30, 2010. Average loan balances increased by $9.3 million, average balances at the Federal Reserve Bank decreased $6.0 million and average balances of other earning assets decreased by $4.1 million, primarily FHLB stock. On a tax-equivalent basis, average yields on interest earning assets decreased by 33 basis points to 4.47% for the year ended September 30, 2011, from 4.80% for the year ended September 30, 2010. Loan activity, the sale of securities with subsequent reinvestment and lower loan balances were the primary reasons for the decrease in asset yields.


48





Interest income onOur loss experience indicates classified loans, those rated substandard or worse, require higher levels of provision for the year endedloan losses and allowance for loan losses than loans that are not classified. Classified loans increased from $61.1 million at September 30, 2011 decreased $3.02013 to $73.1 million to $89.5 million from $92.5 million for the prior fiscal year. Interest income on commercial loans for the year ended at September 30, 20112014 primarily due to classified loans acquired in the Merger. Special mention loans increased from $13.5 million at September 30, 2013 to $57.4$39.6 million as at September 30, 2014, also mainly due to the Merger.

Impaired Loans. A loan is impaired when it is probable we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Impaired loan values are based on one of three measures (i) the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate; (ii) the loan’s observable market price; or (iii) the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. If the measure of an impaired loan is less than its recorded investment, the Bank’s practice is to write-down the loan against the allowance for loan losses so the recorded investment matches the impaired value of the loan. Impaired loans generally include a portion of non-performing loans and accruing and performing TDR loans. At September 30, 2014, we had $36.2 million in impaired loans compared to commercial loan interest income of $56.5 million for the prior fiscal year. Average balances of commercial loans grew $63.1 million to $1.0 billion, with a 26 basis point decrease in the average yield. There was no change in the prime rate during fiscal year 2011. Commercial loans adjustable with the prime rate totaled $290.0$36.8 million at September 30, 2011. Interest income on consumer loans decreased to $10.5 million, as compared to consumer loan interest income of $11.1 million for the prior fiscal year. Average balances of consumer loans decreased $13.3 million to $233.2 million, with no change in basis point in the average yield. Consumer loans adjustable with the prime rate totaled $169.62013 and $53.3 million at September 30, 2011. Income earned on2012. The decline between 2012 and 2013 was mainly due to the resolution of several ADC relationships. In fiscal 2013, we modified the methodology we use to determine the allowance for loan losses required for residential mortgage loans was $21.6 millionand equity lines of credit. In prior periods, we evaluated these loans for the year ended September 30, 2011, down $3.3 million, from the prior year asimpairment on an individual basis. In fiscal 2013, we began evaluating residential mortgage loans and equity lines of credit with an outstanding balance of $500 or less on a result of refinancing activity and lower outstanding average balances.
Tax-equivalent interest income on securities, balances at Federal Reserve Bank and other earning assets decreasedhomogeneous pool basis. This modified approach to $27.1 million for the year ended September 30, 2011, compared to $31.4 million for the prior year. This was due toour methodology did not have a tax-equivalent decrease of 53 basis points in yields. The Company sold $540.5 million in securities and recorded $10.0 million in gainsmaterial impact on the sales. Further during fiscal 2011, proceeds totaling $269.0 million in security maturities and repayments were reinvested at current market rates with a minor increase in duration.allowance for loan losses.

Interest Expense. Interest expense for the year ended September 30, 2011 decreased by $5.1 million to $21.3 million, a decreaseAllocation of 19.3% compared to interest expense of $26.4 million for the prior fiscal year. The decrease in interest expense was primarily due to the significant decrease in the average rates paid on interest-bearing deposits for the year ended September 30, 2011. Rates paid on interest bearing liabilities decreased to 1.05% from 1.30% in fiscal 2010. The average interest rate paid on certificates of deposit decreased by 42 basis points to .93% for the year ended September 30, 2011, from 1.35% for the prior year. The rates paid on NOW accounts and money market accounts each decreased 2 basis points for fiscal 2011 as compared to fiscal 2010. The average cost of borrowings decreased to 3.56% at September 30, 2011 from 3.64% in 2010, with average balances also decreased by $65.5 million. Further, during the year, the bank restructured $89.0 million in FHLB advances and paid $5.2 million in prepayment fees as part of the modification. This modification resulted in a decrease of 106 basis points in the average cost of the $89.1 million in restructured borrowings.
Net Interest Income for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 was $91.3 million, compared to $93.3 million for the year ended September 30, 2010. The tax equivalent net interest margin decreased by 13 basis points to 3.65%, while the net interest spread decreased by 9 basis points to 3.42%. The Bank’s average cost of interest-bearing liabilities has decreased, although the average asset yields decreased faster due to lending activity, impact of non accrual loan increases and sales of securities during 2011. Further, the greater increase of interest earning assets compared to interest bearing liabilities partially offset the decline in net interest income.
ProvisionAllowance for Loan Losses. We recorded $16.6 million inThe following tables set forth the allowance for loan loss provisionslosses allocated by loan category, the total loan balances by category (excluding loans held for sale), and the year ended September 30, 2011 compared to $10.0 million in the prior year, an increasepercent of $6.6 million. We increased the provision due to increased net charge-offs, which were $19.5 million at September 30, 2011 compared to $9.2 million in the previous year. Our charge-offs were centered in our ADC portfolio, which incurred $8.9 million on average outstanding loans of $224.1 million. Of the $8.9 million in ADC charge-offs one relationship accounted for $7.5 million due to a dramatic reduction in sales activity in the second half of our fiscal year on a particular property which resulted in a reduction in collateral value. We incurred $5.6 million in net charge-offs in our CBL C&I portfolio on average outstanding of $84.3 million. The other significant component of net charge-offs was our residential mortgage portfolio, in which we recorded $2.1 million in net charge-offs as the foreclosure process has extended on average to three or more years, home prices have continued to be weak, and taxes continue to accrue. We sold a portion of these loans in foreclosureeach category to reduce a portiontotal loans at the dates indicated. The allowance for loan losses allocated to each category is not necessarily indicative of this exposure. We recorded a lossfuture losses in any particular category and does not restrict the use of $1.1 million included above, on the sale of $1.3 millionallowance to absorb losses in the book value of loans.other categories.
 September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
 
Allowance
for loan
losses
 
Loan
balance
 % of total loans 
Allowance
for loan
losses
 
Loan
balance
 % of total loans 
Allowance
for loan
losses
 
Loan
balance
 % of total loans
 (Dollars in thousands)
Commercial & industrial$9,536
 $1,164,537
 24.5% $5,302
 $434,932
 18.0% $4,603
 $343,307
 16.2%
Payroll finance1,379
 145,474
 3.1
 
 
 
 
 
 
Warehouse lending630
 192,003
 4.0
 
 4,855
 0.2% 
 
 
Factored receivables1,294
 181,433
 3.8
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equipment finance2,621
 393,027
 8.3
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial real estate10,844
 1,449,052
 30.4
 7,567
 969,490
 40.2
 5,754
 896,746
 42.3
Multi-family1,867
 368,524
 7.7
 2,400
 307,547
 12.7
 1,476
 175,758
 8.3
Acquisition, development & construction2,120
 92,149
 1.9
 5,806
 102,494
 4.2
 8,526
 144,061
 6.8
Residential mortgage5,837
 570,431
 12.0
 4,474
 400,009
 16.6
 4,359
 350,022
 16.5
Consumer4,484
 203,808
 4.3
 3,328
 193,571
 8.1
 3,564
 209,578
 9.9
Total$40,612
 $4,760,438
 100.0% $28,877
 $2,412,898
 100.0% $28,282
 $2,119,472
 100.0%

Net charge-offs exceeded our provision by $2.9 million for the year ended September 30, 2011. During the year, our special mention loans decreased from $37.9 million at September 30, 2010 to $23.0 million at September 30, 2011, while our substandard and doubtful loans decreased from $132.1 million to $94.0 million respectively. All significant loans classified substandard or special mention are reviewed for impairment. As a result of our review we may establish a specific reserve, which totaled $3.8 million at September 30, 2011. A specific reserve is established when current information indicates that the carrying value of a loan is probably not recoverable, but there is sufficient uncertainty about the actual occurrence of a loss, or the amount thereof.
Non-interest income consists primarily of income on securities sales, deposit fees and service charges, net increases in the cash surrender value of bank-owned life insurance (“BOLI”) contracts, title insurance fees and investment management fees. Non-interest income was $30.0 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 compared to $27.2 million at September 30, 2010. During the year ended September 30, 2011, the Company recorded gains on sales of investment securities totaling $10.0 million compared to $8.2 million for the prior year. Deposit fees and service charges decreased by $417,000, or 3.71%. Title insurance

49





fee income derived from the Hardenburgh Abstract Company, Inc.
 September 30,
 2011 2010
 
Allowance
for loan
losses
 
Loan
balance
 % of total loans 
Allowance
for loan
losses
 
Loan
balance
 % of total loans
 (Dollars in thousands)
Commercial & industrial$5,945
 $209,923
 12.3% $8,970
 $217,927
 12.8%
Commercial real estate5,123
 592,201
 34.8
 5,739
 535,227
 31.5
Multi-family445
 111,155
 6.6
 176
 44,005
 2.5
Acquisition, development & construction9,895
 175,931
 10.3
 9,752
 231,258
 13.6
Residential mortgage3,498
 389,765
 22.9
 2,641
 434,900
 25.5
Consumer3,011
 224,824
 13.1
 3,565
 238,224
 14.1
Total$27,917
 $1,703,799
 100.0% $30,843
 $1,701,541
 100.0%

The allowance allocated to commercial & industrial loans, payroll finance, warehouse lending, factored receivables and equipment financing mainly increased $67,000in fiscal 2014 as a result of higher loan balances due to anthe Merger and organic loan growth. The loans acquired in the Merger were recorded at fair value with no allowance for loan losses at the acquisition date. The reserve allocated to commercial loans in total was $15.5 million, or 38.1% of the allowance for loan losses at September 30, 2014 compared to $5.3 million or 18.4% of the allowance for loan losses at September 30, 2013. This increase reflects mainly the increase in residential mortgage originations. Investment management fees increased $10,000commercial loans as a percentage of the total loan portfolio. Commercial real estate loans, including multi-family loans, represented 38.1% of the loan portfolio at September 30, 2014 and 31.3% of the allowance for loan losses as compared to September 30, 2013, in which commercial real estate loans were 52.9% of the loan portfolio and 34.5% of the allowance for loan losses. The allowance allocated to acquisition, development and construction loans declined to $2.1 million at September 30, 2014 compared to $5.8 million at September 30, 2013. The decrease in the allowance allocated to acquisition, development and construction loans was mainly due to a reduction in the trailing loan loss allocation factor, which is relatedthe main component in determining the estimated allowance required for each class of loan, and also to increased market valuesa change in the composition of the non-performing ADC loans at September 30, 2014, which included several loans that management has determined are well-secured. In our allowance for loan losses methodology the allocation of loss on assets under management. During fiscal 2011commercial real estate loans increases as the Company originated and sold $49.8 millionloan ages during the initial two years of the life of the loan, which results in a higher allocation of the allowance for loan losses as the loan portfolio becomes more seasoned. The increase in the allowance for loan losses on residential mortgage loans and recorded $1.0 millionconsumer loans is primarily related to the increase in gains comparednon-performing residential mortgage and consumer loans.


50





Investment Securities

Available for Sale Portfolio. The following table sets forth the composition of our available for sale securities portfolio at the dates indicated.
 September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
 
Amortized
cost
 Fair value 
Amortized
cost
 Fair value 
Amortized
cost
 Fair value
 (Dollars in thousands)
Residential MBS:           
Agency-backed$477,003
 $477,705
 $284,837
 $282,529
 $241,598
 $251,445
CMO/Other MBS115,395
 114,145
 169,336
 166,654
 191,867
 193,064
Total residential MBS592,398
 591,850
 454,173
 449,183
 433,465
 444,509
Other securities:           
Federal agencies158,114
 152,814
 273,637
 261,547
 404,820
 408,823
Corporate bonds195,547
 192,839
 118,575
 114,933
 
 
State and municipal131,715
 134,898
 127,324
 128,730
 146,136
 156,481
Trust Preferred37,684
 38,412
 
 
 
 
Equities
 
 
 
 1,087
 1,059
Total other securities523,060
 518,963
 519,536
 505,210
 552,043
 566,363
Total available for sale securities$1,115,458
 $1,110,813
 $973,709
 $954,393
 $985,508
 $1,010,872

Held to $52.8 millionMaturity Portfolio. The following table sets forth the composition of our held to maturity securities portfolio at the dates indicated.
 September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
 
Amortized
cost
 Fair value 
Amortized
cost
 Fair value 
Amortized
cost
 Fair value
 (Dollars in thousands)
Residential MBS:           
Agency-backed$142,329
 $143,586
 $130,371
 $130,979
 $71,343
 $73,902
CMO/Other MBS62,690
 61,495
 25,776
 25,494
 27,921
 28,119
Total residential MBS205,019
 205,081
 156,147
 156,473
 99,264
 102,021
Other securities:           
Federal agencies136,413
 138,085
 77,341
 73,883
 22,236
 22,342
State and municipal232,643
 239,334
 19,011
 19,021
 19,376
 20,435
Other5,000
 5,338
 1,500
 1,519
 1,500
 1,526
Total other securities374,056
 382,757
 97,852
 94,423
 43,112
 44,303
Total held to maturity securities$579,075
 $587,838
 $253,999
 $250,896
 $142,376
 $146,324

Overview. The Board’s Enterprise Risk Committee oversees our investment program and evaluates our investment policy and objectives. Our Chief Financial Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Investment Officer/Treasurer and certain other senior officers have the authority to purchase and sell securities within specific guidelines established in loans sold with $867,000 in gainsthe investment policy. In addition, a summary of all transactions is reviewed by the Enterprise Risk Committee at September 30, 2010.least quarterly.
Non-interest expense
The Company’s objectives for the investment securities is to maintain a high quality portfolio that consists primarily of salariesliquid investment securities with a duration that is designed to limit the impact of fair value declines in a rising interest rate environment. The primary use of funds from deposit growth and employee benefits, stock-based compensation, occupancythe primary source of interest income is expected to be from loan growth. The investment portfolio provides for flexibility in interest rate risk management and office expenses, advertisingadditional liquidity, in addition to contributing to our overall earnings. Investment securities are also utilized for pledging purposes as collateral for borrowings from FHLB, municipal deposits, and promotion expense, professional fees, intangibleother

51





borrowings. The Company regularly evaluates the portfolio against its overall balance sheet optimization strategy of producing growth in earnings per share, and contributing to return on assets. The Company evaluates the portfolio size, risk and duration on a daily basis. At September 30, 2014, the portfolio represented 23.0% of total assets. Our goal is to establish and maintain the investment portfolio at 18.0% to 20.0% of total assets over time.

FASB ASC Topic 320, Investments - Debt and Equity Securities, requires that, at the time of purchase, we designate a security as held to maturity, available for sale, or trading, depending on our intent and ability to hold the security. Securities designated available for sale are reported at fair value, while securities designated held to maturity are reported at amortized cost. We do not have a trading portfolio. The carrying value of investment securities is comprised of the fair value of investment securities available for sale and the amortized cost of held to maturity securities.

Investment portfolio activity. At September 30, 2014, the carrying value of investment securities was $1.7 billion, an increase of $481.5 million compared to September 30, 2013. At September 30, 2013, the carrying value of the portfolio was $1.2 billion, an increase of $55.1 million as compared to September 30, 2012. In connection with the Merger, the Company acquired securities with a fair value of $607.9 million.

In accordance with FASB ASC Subtopic 320-10-25-6, in a significant business combination a company may transfer held to maturity securities to available for sale securities to maintain the company’s existing interest rate risk position or credit risk policy. Based on management’s review of the combined investment securities portfolio and implications for asset and liability management, investment securities totaling $165.2 million were transferred from held to maturity to available for sale. Investment securities that were transferred included residential mortgage-backed securities, federal agency securities and state and municipal securities and was based mainly on the premium amortization data processing expenses and FDIC/extension risk inherent in these securities. Concurrent with this repositioning, a total of $221.9 million of investment securities were also transferred from available for sale to held to maturity. Substantially all of the securities transferred from available for sale to held to maturity have a maturity date in 2020 or beyond. Management believes the transfers of investment securities highlighted above maintain the Company’s interest rate risk position and credit risk profile on a combined basis post-Merger.


Portfolio Maturities and Yields. The following table summarizes the composition, maturities and weighted average yield of our investment securities portfolio at September 30, 2014. Maturities are based on the final contractual payment dates and do not reflect the impact of prepayments or early redemptions that may occur. State and municipal securities yields have not been adjusted to a tax equivalent basis.
 1 Year or Less 1-5 years 5-10 years 10 years or more Total
 
Amortized
cost
 Yield Amortized
cost
 Yield Amortized
cost
 Yield Amortized
cost
 Yield Amortized
cost
 
Fair
Value
 Yield
 (Dollars in thousands)
Available for sale:                     
Residential MBS:                    
Agency-backed$
 % $9,088
 1.93% $111,629
 2.27% $356,286
 2.49% $477,003
 $477,705
 2.43%
CMO/Other MBS
 
 2,130
 3.22
 11,022
 1.92
 102,243
 2.21
 115,395
 114,145
 2.20
Residential MBS
 
 11,218
 2.17
 122,651
 2.24
 458,529
 2.43
 592,398
 591,850
 2.39
Federal agencies
 
 24,996
 1.35
 133,118
 1.52
 
 
 158,114
 152,814
 1.49
Corporate
 
 66,473
 2.02
 129,074
 2.41
 
 
 195,547
 192,839
 2.28
State and municipal2,100
 1.96
 50,039
 3.06
 72,103
 2.94
 7,473
 3.97
 131,715
 134,898
 3.03
Trust Preferred
 
 
 
 
 
 37,684
 6.60
 37,684
 38,412
 6.60
Total$2,100
 1.96% $152,726
 2.26% $456,946
 2.19% $503,686
 2.87% $1,115,458
 $1,110,813
 2.46%
                      
Held to maturity:                     
Residential MBS:                    
Agency-backed$
 % $
 % $42,796
 2.77% $99,533
 2.55% $142,329
 $143,586
 2.62%
CMO/Other MBS
 
 
 
 
 
 62,690
 1.95
 62,690
 61,495
 1.95
Residential MBS
 
 
 
 42,796
 2.77
 162,223
 2.32
 205,019
 205,081
 2.42
Federal agencies
 
 
 
 108,317
 2.50
 28,096
 2.56
 136,413
 138,085
 2.51
State and municipal8,846
 2.18
 4,388
 3.30
 80,928
 3.00
 138,481
 3.52
 232,643
 239,333
 3.03
Other
   4,750
 3.09
 250
 3.75
 
 
 5,000
 5,338
 3.12
Total$8,846
 2.18% $9,138
 3.20% $232,291
 2.73% $328,800
 2.85% $579,075
 $587,837
 2.69%

52






Mortgage-Backed Securities. Mortgage-backed securities are created by pooling mortgages and issuing a security collateralized by the pool of mortgages with an interest rate that is less than the interest rate on the underlying mortgages. Mortgage-backed securities typically represent a participation interest in a pool of single-family or multi-family mortgages, although most of our mortgage-backed securities are collateralized by single-family mortgages. The issuers of such securities (generally U.S. Government agencies and government sponsored enterprises, including Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae) pool and resell the participation interests in the form of securities to investors, such as us, and guarantee the payment of principal and interest to these investors. Investments in mortgage-backed securities involve a risk in addition to the guarantee of repayment of principal outstanding that actual prepayments will be greater or less than the prepayment rate estimated at the time of purchase, which may require adjustments to the amortization of any premium or accretion of any discount relating to such instruments, thereby affecting the net yield and duration of such securities. We review prepayment estimates for our mortgage-backed securities at purchase to ensure that prepayment assumptions are reasonable considering the underlying collateral for the securities at issue and current interest rates, and to determine the yield and estimated maturity of the mortgage-backed securities portfolio. Periodic reviews of current prepayment speeds are performed in order to ascertain whether prepayment estimates require modification that would cause amortization or accretion adjustments.

A portion of our mortgage-backed securities portfolio is invested in collateralized mortgage obligations (“CMOs”), including Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduits (“REMICs”), backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. CMOs and REMICs are types of debt securities issued by special-purpose entities that aggregate pools of mortgages and mortgage-backed securities and create different classes of securities with varying maturities and amortization schedules, as well as a residual interest, with each class possessing different risk characteristics. The cash flows from the underlying collateral are generally divided into “tranches” or classes that have descending priorities with respect to the distribution of principal and interest cash flows, while cash flows on pass-through mortgage-backed securities are distributed pro rata to all security holders. Our practice is to limit fixed-rate CMO investments primarily to the early-to-intermediate tranches, which have the greatest cash flow stability. Floating rate CMOs are purchased with an emphasis on the relative trade-offs between lifetime rate caps, prepayment risk, and interest rates.

Government and Agency Securities. While these securities generally provide lower yields than other regulatory assessments. Non-interest expenseinvestments such as mortgage-backed securities, our current investment strategy is to maintain investments in such instruments to the extent appropriate for liquidity purposes and as collateral for borrowings and municipal deposits.

Corporate Bonds. Corporate bonds have a higher risk of default due to potential for adverse changes in the creditworthiness of the issuer. In recognition of this risk, our policy limits investments in corporate bonds to securities with maturities of ten years or less and rated “A-” or better by at least one nationally recognized rating agency at time of purchase, and to a total investment size of no more than $20.0 million per issuer. Our total corporate bond portfolio limit is the lesser of 5% of total assets or 75% of risk-based capital.

State and Municipal Bonds. The investment policy limits municipal bonds to securities with maturities of 20 years or less and rated as investment grade by at least one nationally recognized rating agency at the time of purchase. However, we also purchase securities that are issued by local government entities within our service area. Such local entity obligations generally are not rated, and are subject to internal credit reviews. In addition, the policy generally imposes an investment size limit of $5.0 million per municipal issuer and a total municipal bond portfolio limit of 10% of assets. At September 30, 2014, we did not hold any obligations that were rated less than “A-” as available for sale.

Trust preferred securities. The Company owns securities of single-issuer bank trust preferred securities, all of which are paying in accordance with their terms and have no deferrals of interest or other deferrals. Management analyzes the credit risk and the probability of impairment on the contractual cash flows of applicable securities. Based upon our analysis, all of the issuers have maintained performance levels adequate to support the contractual cash flows of the securities.


53





Deposits
The following table sets forth the distribution of average deposit accounts by account category and the average rates paid at the dates indicated.
 September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
 
Average
balance
 Rate 
Average
balance
 Rate 
Average
balance
 Rate
 (Dollars in thousands)
Non-interest bearing demand$1,580,108
 % $646,373
 % $520,265
 %
Interest bearing demand706,160
 0.08
 466,110
 0.08
 399,819
 0.12
Savings622,414
 0.14
 572,246
 0.17
 485,624
 0.08
Money market1,458,852
 0.35
 819,442
 0.30
 671,325
 0.33
Certificates of deposit554,396
 0.44
 352,469
 0.60
 289,230
 0.87
Total interest bearing deposits3,341,822
 0.27
 2,210,267
 0.27
 1,845,998
 0.30
Total deposits$4,921,930
 0.18
 $2,856,640
 0.21
 $2,366,263
 0.24

Average deposits increased $2.1 billion, or 72.3% in fiscal 2014 and were $4.9 billion compared to $2.9 billion in fiscal 2013 and $2.4 billion in fiscal 2012. The increase in the average balance of deposits from 2013 to 2014 was mainly due to the Merger. The ratio of average non-interest bearing deposits to total deposits was 32.1% in the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 increased by $6.9 million, or 8.3% to $90.1 million,2014 compared to $83.2 million22.6% in fiscal 2013 and 22.0% in fiscal 2012. The average cost of interest bearing and total deposits was 0.27% and 0.18% during fiscal 2014 compared to 0.27% and 0.21% during fiscal 2013 and 0.30% and 0.24% during fiscal 2012.

Distribution of Deposit Accounts by Type. The following table sets forth the distribution of total deposit accounts, by account type, at the dates indicated.
 September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
 Amount % Amount % Amount %
 (Dollars in thousands)
Non-interest bearing demand$1,799,685
 34.0% $943,934
 31.9% $947,304
 30.4%
Interest bearing demand766,852
 14.5
 434,398
 14.7
 448,123
 14.4
Savings698,443
 13.2
 580,125
 19.6
 506,538
 16.3
Money market1,595,803
 30.1
 735,709
 24.8
 821,704
 26.4
Subtotal4,860,783
 91.8
 2,694,166
 91.0
 2,723,669
 87.5
Certificates of deposit437,871
 8.2
 268,128
 9.0
 387,482
 12.5
Total deposits$5,298,654
 100.0% $2,962,294
 100.0% $3,111,151
 100.0%


54





The following table presents the proportion of each component of total deposits for the same period in 2010. The increase was primarily attributable to $3.2periods presented:
 September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Retail and business deposits77.1% 72.7% 69.0%
Municipal deposits18.7
 25.5
 29.0
Wholesale deposits4.2
 1.8
 2.0
 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%

As of September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company had $992.8 million, in restructuring charge and $1.8 million from charges relating to the CEO transition, including defined benefit settlements. The $3.2 million in restructuring charge consisted of $1.1 million in severances which are expected to result in a pretax savings in salaries and benefits of $4.2$757.1 million and $2.1$901.7 million, relatedrespectively, in municipal deposits. A significant portion of the municipal deposits at September 30 are associated with school district tax collections and we generally retain these deposits only for a short period of time. Wholesale deposits were $220.7 million, $53.1 million and $62.0 million at September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Wholesale deposits consist of brokered deposits and deposits acquired through listing services.

Certificates of Deposit by Interest Rate Range. The following table sets forth information concerning certificates of deposit by interest rate range at the dates indicated.
 At September 30, 2014  
 Period to maturity  At September 30,
 1 year or less 1-2 years 2-3 years 3 years or more Total % of
total
 2013 2012
 (Dollars in thousands)
Interest rate range:               
   1.00% and below$299,149
 $41,600
 $3,702
 $7,642
 $352,093
 80.4% $236,786
 $239,149
   1.01% to 2.00%32,360
 11,172
 31,930
 465
 75,927
 17.3
 8,880
 114,836
   2.01% to 3.00%6,068
 547
 
 
 6,615
 1.5
 10,257
 11,569
   3.01% to 4.00%3,235
 
 
 
 3,235
 0.8
 5,838
 9,101
   4.01% to 5.00%1
 
 
 
 1
 
 6,367
 12,524
   5.01% to 6.00%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 303
Total$340,813
 $53,319
 $35,632
 $8,107
 $437,871
 100.0% $268,128
 $387,482

Certificates of Deposit by Time to the consolidationMaturity. The following table sets forth certificates of two branches, which will result in an annual pre-tax savingsdeposit by time remaining until maturity as of $900,000. Occupancy and office operations increased $1.1 million, or 8.0%, a full year of operations in the Yonkers and Nyack offices during the fiscal year 2011. Professional fees increased $370,000 due to increased consulting fees as well as elevated external costs of collection for problem loans. Stock-based compensation decreased by $381,000 mainly due to the vesting of stock based compensation awards in addition to lower ESOP expense. FDIC insurance decreased by $765,000 or 20.8% due to declines in FDIC assessments.September 30, 2014.
 Period to maturity    
 
3 months or
less
 3-6 months 6-12 months 
Over 12
months
 Total Rate
 (Dollars in thousands)  
Certificates of deposit less than $100,000$58,505
 $35,719
 $35,391
 $17,773
 $147,388
 0.26%
Certificates of deposit $100,000 or more105,709
 52,649
 52,840
 79,285
 290,483
 0.70
 $164,214
 $88,368
 $88,231
 $97,058
 $437,871
 0.55%

55






Income TaxesBrokered Deposits. We utilize brokered deposits on a limited basis and maintain limits for the use of wholesale deposits and other short-term funding in general to be less than 10% of total assets. Most of the brokered deposit funding maintained by the Bank has a maturity to coincide with the anticipated inflows of deposits through municipal tax collections.

Listed below are the Company’s brokered deposits:
 September 30,
 2014 2013
 (Dollars in thousands)
Money market$84,022
 $34,571
Reciprocal CDAR’s 1
34,017
 1,343
CDAR’s one way3,028
 768
Total brokered deposits$121,067
 $36,682
1
Certificate of deposit account registry service

Short-term Borrowings. Income tax expense was $2.8 million forThe Company’s primary source of short-term borrowings (which include borrowings with a maturity less than one year) are advances from the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 comparedFederal Home Loan Bank of New York. Short-term borrowings also include federal funds purchased and repurchase agreements.

The following table sets forth information concerning balances and interest rates on our short-term borrowings at the dates indicated.
 At or for the fiscal year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
 (Dollars in thousands)
Balance at end of year$370,365
 $158,897
 $10,136
Average balance during year264,249
 88,779
 27,286
Maximum amount outstanding at any month end563,085
 295,652
 103,500
Weighted average interest rate at end of year0.69% 0.95% 1.88%
Weighted average interest rate during year0.68
 0.57
 0.78

Short-term borrowings balances have been mainly used to $6.9 million for fiscal 2010, representing effective tax ratesfund continued loan growth. On a daily and average balance basis, the amount of 19.3%short-term borrowings will fluctuate based on the inflows and 25.1%, respectively. The lower tax rate in 2011 was primarily due to the high proportionoutflows of tax-free income, BOLImunicipal deposits and insurance relative to the total levels of pre-tax income and the full year of theother deposits.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Aggregate Contractual Obligations
In the normal course of operations, the Company engages in a variety of financial transactions that, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles,GAAP, are not recorded in the financial statements, or are recorded in amounts that differ from the notional amounts. These transactions involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit, interest rate, and liquidity risk. Such transactions are used by the Company for general corporate purposes or for customer needs. The Company minimizes its exposure to loss under these commitments by subjecting them to credit approval and monitoring procedures.

The Company’s off-balance sheet arrangements, which principally include lending commitments, are described below. At September 30, 2012 and 2011, the Company had no interests in non-consolidated special purpose entities.

Lending Commitments. Lending commitments include loan commitments, unused credit lines, and letters of credit. These instruments are not recorded in the consolidated balance sheet until funds are advanced under the commitments. The Company provides these lending commitments to customers in the normal course of business.

For our non-real estate commercial customers, loan commitments generally take the form of revolving credit arrangements to finance customers’ working capital requirements. At September 30, 2012,2014 these commitments totaled $126.3$225.8 million. For our real estate businesses, loan commitments are generally for developmentresidential construction, multi-family and commercial construction and theseprojects, which totaled $125.7$114.8 million at September 30, 2012.2014. Loan commitments for our retail customers are generally home equity lines of credit secured by residential property. At September 30, 2012, our retail loan commitmentsproperty and unused credit lines totaled $127.6$99.0 million. In addition loan commitments for overdrafts were $12.0$17.7 million. Letters of credit issued by the Company generally are standby letters of credit. Standby letters of credit are commitments issued by the Company on behalf of its customer/obligor in favor of a beneficiary that specify an amount the Company can be called upon to pay upon the beneficiary’s compliance

56





with the terms of the letter of credit. These commitments are primarily issued in favor of local municipalities to support the obligor’s completion of real estate development projects. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers. Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments to support performance, typically of a contract or the financial integrity of a customer to a third party,third-party, and represent an independent undertaking by the Company to the third party.third-party. Letters of credit as of September 30, 20122014 totaled $26.4$97.5 million.
Provident Bank applies essentially the same credit policies and standards as it does in the lending process when making these commitments.
See Note 1515. “Off-Balance-Sheet Financial Instruments” to “Consolidated Financial Statements” in Item 8 hereofthe consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding lending commitments.

Contractual Obligations. In the ordinary course of our operations, we enter into certain contractual obligations. Such obligations include operating leases for premises and equipment.

50


Payments Due by Period. The following table summarizes our significant fixed and determinable contractual obligations and other funding needs by payment date at September 30, 2012.2014. The payment amounts represent those amounts due to the recipient.
 
Payments Due by PeriodPayments due by period
Contractual Obligations
Less than
One Year
 
One to Three
Years
 
Three to Five
Years
 
More Than
Five Years
 Total
(Dollars in thousands) 1 year or less 1-3 years 3-5 years 5 years or more Total
FHLB and other borrowings$10,136
 $109,512
 $202,587
 $22,941
 $345,176
(Dollars in thousands)
Contractual obligations:         
FHLB borrowings$324,726
 $397,786
 $70,000
 $2,516
 $795,028
Other borrowings45,639
 
 
 
 45,639
Senior notes
 
 98,402
 
 98,402
Time deposits344,033
 37,008
 6,441
 
 387,482
340,812
 88,951
 8,108
 
 437,871
Letters of credits9,537
 8,382
 285
 8,237
 26,441
Operating leases8,984
 16,207
 14,089
 27,012
 66,292
720,161
 502,944
 190,599
 29,528
 1,443,232
Other commitments:         
Letters of credit81,599
 7,492
 
 8,377
 97,468
Undrawn lines of credit265,940
 
 
 
 265,940
520,275
 
 
 
 520,275
Operating leases2,782
 5,029
 4,899
 13,024
 25,734
Total$632,428
 $159,931
 $214,212
 $44,202
 $1,050,773
$1,322,035
 $510,436
 $190,599
 $37,905
 $2,060,975
Commitments to extend credit$125,729
 
 
 
 $125,729

See Note 16. “Commitments and contingencies” to the consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our contractual obligations.


Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices
The consolidated financial statements and related notes of Provident Bancorpthe Company have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. U.S. GAAP, which generally requires the measurement of financial position and operating results in terms of historical dollars without consideration for changes in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. The impact of inflation is reflected in the increased cost of our operations. Unlike industrial companies, our assets and liabilities are primarily monetary in nature. As a result, changes in market interest rates have a greater impact on performance than the effects of inflation.

Liquidity and Capital Resources
The overall objective
Capital. At September 30, 3014, stockholders’ equity totaled $961.1 million compared to $482.9 million at September 30, 2013. In connection with the Merger, the Company issued 39,057,968 shares of our liquidity management is to ensure the availabilityits common stock with a value of sufficient cash funds to meet all financial commitments$457.8 million on October 31, 2013. Other significant increases in stockholders’ equity included net income of $27.7 million, other comprehensive income, net of tax of $3.9 million, and to take advantagestock-based compensation of investment opportunities. We manage liquidity in order to meet deposit withdrawals on demand or at contractual maturity, to repay borrowings as they mature, and to fund new loans and investments as opportunities arise.$6.6 million which were partially offset by dividends declared of $17.7 million.

Our primary sourcesThe accumulated other comprehensive loss component of funds are deposits, principal and interest payments on loans and securities, wholesale borrowings,stockholders’ equity totaled a net, after-tax, unrealized loss of $11.5 million compared to a net, after-tax unrealized loss of $15.3 million at September 30, 2013. The increase was the proceeds from maturing securities and short-term investments, and the proceeds from the salesresult of loans and securities. The scheduled amortizations of loans and securities, as well as proceeds from borrowings, are predictable sources of funds. Other funding sources, however, such as deposit inflows, mortgage prepayments and mortgage loan sales are greatly influenced by market interest rates, economic conditions and competition.

Our cash flows are derived from operating activities, investing activities and financing activities as reporteda $9.2 million net after-tax increase in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in our consolidated financial statements. Our primary investing activities are the origination of commercial real estate and residential mortgage loans, and the purchase of investment securities and mortgage-backed securities. During the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, our loan originations totaled $ 810.1 million, $578.6 million, and $472.1 million, respectively. Purchasesvalue of securities available for sale, totaled $679.6 million, $622.6 milliona $214 thousand after-tax decrease in the net actuarial loss on the defined benefit pension plan and $830.6 million fora net after-tax decrease in the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Purchasesnet unrealized loss on securities transferred to held maturity of securities held to maturity totaled $95.2 million, $93.8 million and $23.0 million for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. These activities were funded primarily by borrowings and by principal repayments on loans and securities. Loan origination commitments totaled $125.7 million at September 30, 2012, and consisted of $117.1 million at adjustable or variable rates and $8.6 million at fixed rates. Unused lines of credit granted to customers were $265.9 million at September 30, 2012. We anticipate that we will have sufficient funds available to meet current loan commitments and lines of credit.$5.1 million.

The Company’s investments in BOLI are considered illiquid and are therefore classified as other assets. Earnings from BOLI are derived from the net increase in cash surrender value of the BOLI contracts and the proceeds from the payment on the insurance policies, if any. The recorded value of BOLI contracts totaled $59.0 million and $57.0 million at September 30, 2012 and September 30, 2011, respectively.

Deposit flows are generally affected by the level of market interest rates, the interest rates and other conditions on deposit products offered by our banking competitors, and other factors. The net increase / (decrease) in total deposits was $814.5 million, $154.0 million and $60.4 million, for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Certificates of deposit that are scheduled to mature in one year or less from September 30, 2012 totaled $344.0 million. Based upon prior experience and our

5157





Under current pricing strategy, we believeregulatory requirements, amounts reported as accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income related to securities available for sale, securities transferred to held to maturity, and defined benefit pension plans do not reduce or increase regulatory capital and are not included in the calculation of leverage and risk-based capital ratios. Regulatory agencies for banks and bank holding companies utilize capital guidelines to measure Tier 1 and total capital and to take into consideration the risk inherent in both on-balance sheet and off-balance sheet items. See Note 14. “Stockholders’ Equity” in the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Report.

The Company paid a $0.06 dividend per common share in the first fiscal quarter of 2014 and paid a dividend of $0.07 per common share in the second, third and fourth fiscal quarters of 2014. Dividends of $0.06 were paid in each fiscal quarter of 2013.

The Company’s board of directors has authorized the repurchase of the Company’s common stock. At September 30, 2014, there are 776,713 shares available for repurchase. No shares were repurchased under this plan during fiscal 2014 or 2013. See Part II, Item 5. “Market for Registrants Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities”, included elsewhere in this Report.

Basel III Capital Rules. In July 2013, the Company’s primary federal regulators published final rules (the “Basel III Capital Rules”) establishing a new comprehensive capital framework for U.S. banking organizations. The rules are discussed under “Supervision and Regulation - Capital Requirements - Basel III Capital Rules.”

Liquidity. Liquidity measures the ability to meet current and future cash flow needs as they become due. The liquidity of a financial institution reflects its ability to meet loan requests, to accommodate possible outflows in deposits and to take advantage of interest rate market opportunities. The ability of a financial institution to meet its current financial obligations is a function of its balance sheet structure, its ability to liquidate assets and its access to alternative sources of funds. The objective of the Company’s liquidity management is to manage cash flow and liquidity reserves so that they are adequate to fund the Company’s operations and to meet obligations and other commitments on a timely basis and at a reasonable cost. The Company seeks to achieve this objective and ensure that funding needs are met by maintaining an appropriate level of liquid funds through asset/liability management, which includes managing the mix and time to maturity of financial assets and financial liabilities on the Company’s balance sheet. The Company’s liquidity position is enhanced by its ability to raise additional funds as needed in the wholesale markets.

Asset liquidity is provided by liquid assets which are readily marketable or pledgeable or which will mature in the near future. Liquid assets include cash, interest-bearing deposits in banks, securities available for sale, maturities and cash flow from securities held to maturity.

Liability liquidity is provided by access to funding sources which include core deposits, federal funds purchased and repurchase agreements. The liquidity position of the Company is continuously monitored and adjustments are made to the balance between sources and uses of funds as deemed appropriate. Liquidity risk management is an important element in the Company’s asset/liability management process. The Company regularly models liquidity stress scenarios to assess potential liquidity outflows or funding problems resulting from economic activity, volatility in the financial markets, unexpected credit events or other significant portionoccurrences. These scenarios are incorporated into the Company’s contingency funding plan, which provides the basis for the identification of such deposits will remain with us, although wethe Company’s liquidity needs. As of September 30, 2014, management is not aware of any events that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s liquidity, capital resources or operations. In addition, management is not aware of any regulatory recommendations regarding liquidity, including the Basel III liquidity framework, which, if implemented, would have a material adverse effect on the Company.

At September 30, 2014 the Bank had $176.6 million in cash on hand and unused borrowing capacity at the FHLB of $785.1 million. In addition, the Bank may purchase additional federal funds from other institutions and enter into additional repurchase agreements.

The Company is a bank holding company and does not conduct operations. Its primary sources of liquidity are dividends received from the Bank and borrowings from outside sources. Banking regulations may limit the amount of dividends that may be requiredpaid by the Bank. At September 30, 2014, the Bank had capacity to compete for manypay up to $47.9 million of dividends to the maturing certificates inCompany. At September 30, 2014 the Company had cash of $23.4 million, and $15 million available under a highly competitive environment.revolving line of credit facility.

Credit spreads narrowed steadily duringIn September 2014, the past yearCompany entered into a $15 million revolving line of credit facility with a third-party financial institution that matures on September 5, 2015. The use of proceeds are for general corporate purposes. The facility has not been used and many are very near historically low levels. Furthermore,requires the extremely low interest rate environment caused our depositsCompany and the Bank to remain at elevated levels which have also strengthened our liquidity position. Many banks are experiencing a situation similarmaintain certain ratios related to ours resultingcapital, nonperforming asset to capital, reserves to nonperforming loans and debt service coverage. The Company and the Bank were in the industry liquidity to be at significantly elevated levels. The preference of depositors to stay short could lead to potential liquidity reductions in the future if we do not raise rates to retain these funds.

We generally remain fully invested and utilize additional sources of funds through Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (“FHLB”) advances and other sources of which $345.2 million was outstandingcompliance with all requirements at September 30, 2012. At September 30, 2012, we had the ability to borrow an additional $488.5 million under our credit facilities with the Federal Home Loan Bank. The Bank may borrow up to an additional $380.4 million by pledging securities not required to be pledged for other purposes as2014.


58


Cash and short-term borrowing capacity at September 30, 2012 is summarized below:
 (Dollars in thousands)
Cash and Due from Banks$437,982
Unpledged investment Securities380,437
Unpledged mortgage collateral488,534
Total immediate funding available$1,306,953
The Company’s tangible capital to tangible asset ratio is 8.32% as of September 30, 2012. The Bank’s regulatory capital ratios as of September 30,2012 were as follows:
Tier I leverage*7.5%
Tier I risk based capital12.1%
Total risk based capital13.3%
*Calculated using the OCC's rules for a thrift institution, which requires the Tier I leverage ratio to be calculated on period end balances. However, if the OCC's rules for a national bank were used, which uses average assets for the period, the Tier I leverage ratio would have been 8.8%.
The levels are well above current regulatory capital requirements to be considered well capitalized. We are currently studying the impact on capital resulting from the Basel III accords.

Provident Bank has committed to the OCC to have an 8% Tier 1 leverage ratio consistent with its capital management policy. At the time of the acquisition with Gotham Bank, Provident Bank's Tier 1 leverage ratio exceeded 8% and Provident Bank believes it continues to be in compliance with this commitment under its capital policy. Consistent with these commitments and to help support the acquisition of Gotham Bank and future growth, the Company raised $46 million in common equity on August 7, 2012.

The Company has an effective shelf registration covering $14$29 million of debt and equity securities remaining available for use, subject to Board authorization and market conditions, to issue equity or debt securities at our discretion. While we seek to preserve flexibility with respect to cash requirements, there can be no assurance that market conditions would permit us to sell securities on acceptable terms at any given time or at all.


5259


CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
We make statements in this Report, and we may from time to time make other statements, regarding our outlook or expectations for earnings, revenues, expenses and/or other financial, business or strategic matters regarding or affecting Provident Bancorp that are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “outlook,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project” and other similar words and expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would” and “could.” These statements are not historical facts, but instead represent our current expectations, plans or forecasts and are based on the beliefs and assumptions of the management and the information available to management at the time that these disclosures were prepared.
Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which change over time. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. We do not assume any duty and do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements. Because forward-looking statements are subject to assumptions and uncertainties, actual results or future events could differ, possibly materially, from those that we anticipated in our forward-looking statements and future results could differ materially from our historical performance.
The following factors, among others, could cause our future results to differ materially from the plans, objectives, goals, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions expressed in the forward-looking statements:

the timely implementation of our new business strategy, including customer acceptance of our products and services and the perceived overall value, pricing and quality of them, compared to our competitors;
legislative and regulatory changes such as the Dodd-Frank Act and its implementing regulations that adversely affect our business including changes in regulatory policies and principles or the interpretation of regulatory capital or other rules;
general economic conditions, either nationally, internationally, or in our market areas, including fluctuations in real estate values and constrained financial markets;
the effects of and changes in monetary and fiscal policies of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the U.S. Government;
our ability to make accurate assumptions and judgments about an appropriate level of allowance for loan losses and the collectability of our loan portfolio, including changes in the level and trend of loan delinquencies and write-offs that may lead to increased losses and non-performing assets in our loan portfolio, result in our allowance for loan losses not being adequate to cover actual losses, and require us to materially increase our reserves;
our use of estimates in determining fair value of certain of our assets, which estimates may prove to be incorrect and result in significant declines in valuation;
changes in the levels of general interest rates, and the relative differences between short and long term interest rates, deposit interest rates, our net interest margin and funding sources;
computer systems on which we depend could fail or experience a security breach, implementation of new technologies may not be successful; and our ability to anticipate and respond to technological changes can affect our ability to meet customer needs;
changes in other economic, competitive, governmental, regulatory, and technological factors affecting our markets, operations, pricing, products, services and fees;
our Company’s ability to successfully implement growth, expense reduction and other strategic initiatives and to complete merger and acquisition activities and realize expected strategic and operating efficiencies associated with suchmatters;
our success at managing the risks involved in the foregoing and managing our business; and
the timing and occurrence or non-occurrence of events that may be subject to circumstances beyond our control.
Additional factors that may affect our results are discussed in this annual report on Form 10-K under “Item 1A, Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Report or in other filings with the SEC. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements.

53


ITEM 7A.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Management believes that our most significant form of market risk is interest rate risk. The general objective of our interest rate risk management is to determine the appropriate level of risk given our business strategy, and then manage that risk in a manner that is consistent with our policy to limit the exposure of our net interest income to changes in market interest rates. ProvidentThe Bank’s Asset/Liability Management Committee (“ALCO”), which consists of certain members of senior management, evaluates the interest rate risk inherent in certain assets and liabilities, our operating environment, and capital and liquidity requirements, and modifies our lending, investing and deposit gathering strategies accordingly. A committee of the Board of Directors reviews the ALCO’s activities and strategies, the effect of those strategies on our net interest margin, and the effect that changes in market interest rates would have on the economic value of our loan and securities portfolios, as well as the intrinsic value of our deposits and borrowings.

We actively evaluate interest rate risk in connection with our lending, investing, and deposit activities. We emphasize the origination of commercial mortgagereal estate loans, commercial business& industrial loans, ADC loans, and residential fixed-rate mortgage loans that are repaid monthly and bi-weekly, fixed-rate commercial mortgage loans,and adjustable-rate residential and consumer loans. Depending on market interest rates and our capital and liquidity position, we may retain all of the fixed-rate, fixed-term residential mortgage loans that we originate or we may sell or securitize all, or a portion of such longer-term loans, generally on a servicing-retainedservicing-released basis. We also invest in shorter-termshorter term securities, which generally have lower yields compared to longer-term investments. Shortening the average maturity of our interest-earning assets by increasing our investments in shorter-term loans and securities may help us to better match the maturities and interest rates of our assets and liabilities, thereby reducing the exposure of our net interest income to changes in market interest rates. These strategies may adversely affect net interest income due to lower initial yields on these investments in comparison to longer-term, fixed-rate loans and investments.

Management monitors interest rate sensitivity primarily through the use of a model that simulates net interest income (“NII”) under varying interest rate assumptions. Management also evaluates this sensitivity using a model that estimates the change in the Company'sCompany’s and the Bank’s net portfolioeconomic value of equity (“EVE”) over a range of interest rate scenarios. EVE is the present value of expected cash flows from assets, liabilities and off-balance sheet contracts. The model assumes estimated loan prepayment rates, reinvestment rates and deposit decay rates that seem reasonable, based on historical experience during prior interest rate changes.

Estimated Changes in EVE and NII. The table below sets forth, as of September 30, 2012,2014, the estimated changes in our (1) EVE that would result from the designated instantaneous changes in the forward rates curve,rate curves, and (2) NII that would result from the designated instantaneous changes in the U.S. Treasury yield curve. Computations of prospective effects of hypothetical interest rate changes are based on numerous assumptions including relative levels of market interest rates, loan prepayments and deposit decay, and should not be relied uponon as indicative of actual results.

Interest rates Estimated Estimated change in EVE Estimated Estimated change in NII
(basis points) EVE Amount Percent NII Amount Percent
  Changes in EVE   Changes in NII (Dollars in thousands)
Interest Rates
(basis points)
Estimated EVE Amount Percent Estimated NII Amount Percent
(Dollars in thousands)
+300$445,806
 $(30,474) -6.4 % $119,121
 $11,299
 10.5 % $916,800
 $(31,928) (3.4)% $278,113
 $30,308
 12.2%
+200465,091
 (11,189) -2.3 % 115,200
 7,378
 6.8 % 936,800
 (11,928) (1.3) 268,343
 20,538
 8.3
+100488,527
 12,247
 2.6 % 111,522
 3,700
 3.4 % 955,109
 6,381
 (0.7) 257,610
 9,805
 4.0
0476,280
 
  % 107,822
 
  % 948,728
 
 
 247,805
 
 
-100462,631
 (13,649) -2.9 % 101,116
 (6,706) -6.2 % 927,870
 (20,858) (2.2) 229,429
 (18,376) (7.4)

The table set forth above indicates that at September 30, 2012,2014, in the event of an immediate 200 basis point increase in interest rates, we would expect to experience an 2.3%a 1.3% decrease in EVE and a 6.8%8.3% increase in NII. Due to the current level of interest rates, management is unable to reasonably model the impact of decreases in interest rates on EVE and NII beyond -100 basis points.

Certain shortcomings are inherent in the methodology used in the above interest rate risk measurements. Modeling changes in EVE and NII requires making certain assumptions that may or may not reflect the manner in which actual yields and costs respond to changes in market interest rates. The EVE and NII table presented above assumes that the composition of our interest-rate sensitive assets and liabilities existing at the beginning of a period remains constant over the period being measured and, accordingly, the data does not reflect any actions management may undertake in response to changes in interest rates. The table also assumes that a particular change in interest rates is reflected uniformly across the yield curve regardless of the duration to maturity or the re-pricing characteristics of specific assets and liabilities. Accordingly, although the EVE and NII table provides an indication of our sensitivity to interest rate changes at a particular point in time, such measurements are not intended to and do not provide a precise forecast of the effect of changes in market interest rates may have on our net interest income andincome. Actual results will differ from actual results.likely differ.


5460





Since December 2008,During the fiscal year 2014, the federal funds target rate remained in a range of 0.00 - 0.25% as the Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) did not change the target overnight lending rate. U.S. Treasury yields in the two year maturities decreased by 2increased 25 basis points from 0.25%0.33% to 0.23% during0.58% in fiscal year 20122014 while the yield on U.S. Treasury 10 year10-year notes decreased 2712 basis points from 1.92%2.64% to 1.65%2.52% over the same timetwelve month period. The greater rate of decrease in rates on longer termlonger-term maturities hascoupled with the increase in rates on the short-term maturities resulted in thea flatter 2-10 year treasury yield curve being flatter at the end of fiscal 2014 relative to the pastbeginning of the fiscal year than it was when the year began. The overall lower yield curve caused a significant reduction in rates paid on deposits and short-term borrowings as well as rates charged on loans and other assets. To fight the economic downturn the FOMC declared a willingness to keep the federal funds target low for an “extended period”. Furthermore, duringyear. During the fourth quarter, of the current fiscal year the FOMC statedreaffirmed its willingness to maintain an accommodative stance on monetary policy stating that it anticipates thatintends to do so even after employment and inflation are near mandate consistent levels should economic conditions are likely to warrant exceptionally low levels forkeeping the target federal funds rate at least through mid-2015.below levels the committee views as normal in the longer run. However, should economic conditions improve, the FOMC could reverse direction and increase the federal funds target rate. This could cause the shorter end of the yield curve to rise disproportionately more thanrelative to the longer end, thereby resulting in a short-term margin compression. We hold $50 million in notional principal of interest rate caps to help mitigate this risk. Should rates not increase sufficiently to collect on such derivatives; the fair value of this derivative would decline and eventually mature.

ITEM 8.Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
The following are included in this item:

(A)Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial ReportingIndependent Registered Public Accounting Firm
(B)Report
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial ReportingSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013
(C)Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Financial
Consolidated Income Statements for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012
(D)Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as ofChanges in Stockholders’ Equity for the fiscal years ended September 30, 20122014, 2013 and 20112012
(E)Consolidated Statements of IncomeCash Flows for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 20112014, 2013 and 20102012
(F)Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010
(G)Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010
(H)Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

The supplementary data required by this item (selected quarterly financial data) is provided in Note 2121. “Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)” to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.consolidated financial statements.

5561





Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial ReportingIndependent Registered Public Accounting Firm


Board of Directors and Stockholders
Provident New York Bancorp:
The management of Provident New York Bancorp (“the Company”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. The Company's system of internal controls is designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company's management and board of directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Management regularly monitors its internal control over financial reporting and takes appropriate action to correct any deficiencies that may be identified.
All internal control systems have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. 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.
Management assessed the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012. This assessment was based on criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the Company's annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected in a timely basis by the Company's internal controls.
Based on our assessment, we identified the following two deficiencies in internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012 that we consider to be material weaknesses:
1.The Company did not maintain effective controls to ensure the accuracy of the provision for income taxes or deferred taxes. Specifically, this control deficiency was the result of inadequate staffing and technical expertise in key positions related to accounting for provision for income taxes and deferred income taxes.
2.The Company did not maintain effective controls to ensure that pension accounting matters were properly recorded and presented on the Balance Sheet or the Statement of Other Comprehensive Income.
Based on the material weaknesses identified herein, Management has enacted the following action plans to enhance the Company's internal control over financial reporting:
1.Management will increase the Company's personnel resources and technical accounting expertise within the accounting function. In addition, management has instituted additional specific training for existing accounting personnel.
2.Management has enhanced its written policies and checklists setting forth procedures for accounting and financial reporting with respect to the requirements and application of US GAAP and SEC disclosure requirements.
Based on our identification of the material weakness described above, we believe that, as of September 30, 2012, the Company's internal control over financial control did not meet the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting and thus was not effective.
We do not believe the material weaknesses described above caused any meaningful or significant misreporting of our financial condition and results of operations for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. Any audit adjustments arising from these deficiencies were recorded in our audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K
The Company's independent registered public accounting firm has issued an audit report on the effective operation of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012. This report appears on the following page.
By:/s/ Jack Kopnisky
Jack Kopnisky
President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
December 14, 2012
By:/s/ Stephen Masterson
Stephen Masterson
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
December 14, 2012

56


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Board of Directors and Stockholders
Provident New York Bancorp

We have audited Provident New York Bancorp's (“the Company”) internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Provident New York Bancorp'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 Report of Management 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, and 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. A company'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.

A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the company's annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. The following material weaknesses have been identified and included in management's report.

The Company did not maintain effective controls to ensure the accuracy of the provision for income taxes and related current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities. Specifically, this control deficiency was the result of inadequate staffing and technical expertise in key positions related to accounting for income taxes.
The Company did not maintain effective controls to ensure that pension accounting matters were properly recorded and presented on the balance sheet or the statement of comprehensive income.

These material weaknesses were considered in determining the nature, timing and extent of audit tests applied in our audit of the September 30, 2012 financial statements and this report does not affect our report dated December 14, 2012 on those financial statements.

In our opinion, because of the effects of the material weaknesses described above, Provident New York Bancorp has not maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012, based on Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated statements of financial condition of Provident New York Bancorp and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2012 and 2011 and the related consolidated statements of income, statements of comprehensive income, changes in stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years ended September 30, 2012 and our report dated December 14, 2012 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.


/s/Crowe Horwath LLP
New York, New York
December 14, 2012


57


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Financial Statements
Board of Directors and Stockholders
Provident New YorkSterling Bancorp


We have audited the accompanying consolidated statementsbalance sheets of financial condition of Provident New YorkSterling Bancorp and subsidiaries (“the Company”) as of September 30, 20122014 and 20112013, and the related consolidated statements of income, statements of comprehensive income, changes in stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the three year period ended September 30, 2012. These2014. We also have audited Sterling Bancorp’s internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2014, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Sterling Bancorp’s management is responsible for these financial statements, are the responsibilityfor maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the Company's management.effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying, Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and an opinion on the company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the auditaudits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includesmisstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. An audit also includesstatements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well asand evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting 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 audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.opinions.

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 consolidated financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company'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 consolidated 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 consolidated 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 consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Provident New YorkSterling Bancorp and subsidiaries as of September 30, 20122014 and 20112013, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the three year period ended September 30, 20122014 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We also have audited, Also in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the effectiveness of Provident New York Bancorp'sour opinion, Sterling Bancorp maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012,2014, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated December 14, 2012 expressed an adverse opinion thereon.Commission.


/s/Crowe Horwath LLP

New York, New York
December 14, 2012November 28, 2014



5862

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
September 30,
2012 2011September 30,
ASSETS   
2014 2013
ASSETS:   
Cash and due from banks$437,982
 $281,512
$177,619
 $113,090
Securities   
Securities:   
Available for sale, at fair value1,010,872
 739,844
1,110,813
 954,393
Held to maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $146,324 and $111,272 in 2012 and 2011, respectively)142,376
 110,040
Held to maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $587,838 and $250,896 in 2014 and 2013, respectively)579,075
 253,999
Total securities1,153,248
 849,884
1,689,888
 1,208,392
Assets held for sale4,550
 
Loans held for sale7,505
 4,176
17,846
 1,011
Gross loans2,119,472
 1,703,799
4,760,438
 2,412,898
Allowance for loan losses(28,282) (27,917)(40,612) (28,877)
Total loans, net2,091,190
 1,675,882
4,719,826
 2,384,021
Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) stock, at cost19,249
 17,584
Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) and Federal Reserve Bank (“FRB”) stock, at cost66,085
 24,312
Accrued interest receivable10,513
 9,904
19,667
 11,698
Premises and equipment, net38,483
 40,886
43,286
 36,520
Goodwill163,247
 160,861
388,926
 163,117
Core deposit and other intangible assets7,164
 4,629
45,278
 5,891
Bank owned life insurance59,017
 56,967
119,486
 60,914
Foreclosed properties6,403
 5,391
Other real estate owned7,580
 6,022
Other assets24,431
 29,726
41,900
 34,184
Total assets$4,022,982
 $3,137,402
$7,337,387
 $4,049,172
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY      
LIABILITIES:      
Deposits$3,111,151
 $2,296,695
$5,298,654
 $2,962,294
FHLB and other borrowings345,176
 323,522
Borrowing senior unsecured note (FDIC insured)
 51,499
FHLB borrowings795,028
 462,953
Other borrowings (federal funds purchased and repurchase agreements)45,639
 
Senior notes98,402
 98,033
Mortgage escrow funds11,919
 9,701
4,494
 12,646
Other liabilities63,614
 24,851
134,032
 30,380
Total liabilities3,531,860
 2,706,268
6,376,249
 3,566,306
Commitments and Contingent liabilities
 
Commitments and Contingent liabilities (See Note 16.)

 

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:      
Preferred stock, (par value $0.01 per share; 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding)
 
Common stock (par value $0.01 per share; 75,000,000 shares authorized; 52,188,056 and 45,929,552 issued for 2012 and 2011, respectively; 44,173,470 and 37,864,008 shares outstanding in 2012 and 2011 respectively)522
 459
Preferred stock (par value $0.01 per share; 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding)
 
Common stock (par value $0.01 per share; 190,000,000 shares authorized; 91,246,024 and 52,188,056 issued for 2014 and 2013, respectively; 83,628,267 and 44,351,046 shares outstanding in 2014 and 2013, respectively)912
 522
Additional paid-in capital403,541
 357,063
860,564
 403,816
Unallocated common stock held by employee stock ownership plan (“ESOP”); 563,826 and 611,677 unallocated shares outstanding in 2012 and 2011, respectively(5,638) (6,138)
Treasury stock, at cost (8,014,586 shares in 2012 and 8,065,544 shares in 2011)(90,173) (90,585)
Unallocated common stock held by employee stock ownership plan (“ESOP”); 0 and 549,262 unallocated shares outstanding in 2014 and 2013, respectively
 (5,493)
Treasury stock, at cost (7,617,757 shares in 2014 and 7,837,010 shares in 2013)(86,339) (88,538)
Retained earnings175,971
 165,199
197,460
 187,889
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of taxes of $4,688 in 2012 and $3,522 in 20116,899
 5,136
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss), net of tax (benefit) of ($8,470) in 2014 and ($10,482) in 2013(11,459) (15,330)
Total stockholders’ equity491,122
 431,134
961,138
 482,866
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$4,022,982
 $3,137,402
$7,337,387
 $4,049,172
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

5963

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Income Statements
For the year ended September 30,
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)



PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Income
For the years ended September 30,
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
2012 2011 20102014 2013 2012
Interest and dividend income:          
Loans, including fees$91,010
 $89,500
 $92,542
$202,982
 $107,810
 $91,010
Taxable securities16,538
 14,493
 18,208
30,067
 17,509
 16,538
Non-taxable securities6,497
 7,441
 7,774
10,453
 5,682
 6,497
Other earning assets992
 1,180
 1,250
3,404
 1,060
 992
Total interest and dividend income115,037
 112,614
 119,774
246,906
 132,061
 115,037
Interest expense:     
   
Deposits5,581
 6,104
 8,517
8,964
 5,923
 5,581
Borrowings12,992
 15,220
 17,923
19,954
 13,971
 12,992
Total interest expense18,573
 21,324
 26,440
28,918
 19,894
 18,573
Net interest income96,464
 91,290
 93,334
217,988
 112,167
 96,464
Provision for loan losses10,612
 16,584
 10,000
19,100
 12,150
 10,612
Net interest income after provision for loan losses85,852
 74,706
 83,334
198,888
 100,017
 85,852
Non-interest income:     
    
Accounts receivable management / factoring commissions and other related fees13,146
 
 
Mortgage banking income8,086
 1,979
 1,897
Deposit fees and service charges11,377
 10,811
 11,228
15,595
 10,964
 11,377
Net gain on sale of securities10,452
 10,011
 8,157
641
 7,391
 10,452
Other than temporary impairment on securities:     
Total impairment loss(90) (787) 
Loss recognized in other comprehensive income43
 509
 
Net impairment loss recognized in earnings(47) (278) 
Title insurance fees1,106
 1,224
 1,157
Bank owned life insurance2,050
 2,049
 2,044
3,080
 1,998
 2,050
Gain (loss) on sale of premises and equipment75
 
 (54)
Net gain on sales of loans1,897
 1,027
 867
Loss on sale of HVIA(135) 
 
Investment management fees3,143
 3,080
 3,070
2,209
 2,413
 3,143
Fair value loss on interest rate caps(63) (197) (1,106)
Other2,297
 2,224
 1,838
4,613
 2,947
 3,233
Total non-interest income32,152
 29,951
 27,201
47,370
 27,692
 32,152
Non-interest expense:     
   
Compensation and employee benefits46,038
 43,662
 43,589
94,310
 47,833
 46,038
Defined benefit settlement charge / CEO transition
 1,772
 
Restructuring charge (severance / branch relocation)
 3,201
 
Stock-based compensation plans1,187
 1,162
 1,543
3,703
 2,239
 1,187
Merger related expense5,925
 255
 
Occupancy and office operations14,457
 14,508
 13,434
27,726
 14,953
 14,457
Advertising and promotion1,849
 3,328
 3,252
Professional fees4,247
 4,389
 4,019
Data and check processing2,802
 2,763
 2,285
Amortization of intangible assets1,245
 1,426
 1,849
9,408
 1,296
 1,245
ATM/debit card expense1,711
 1,584
 1,601
Foreclosed property expense1,618
 1,171
 137
FDIC insurance and regulatory assessments3,096
 2,910
 3,675
6,146
 3,010
 3,096
Other real estate owned (income) expense, net(237) 1,562
 1,618
Merger-related expense9,455
 2,772
 5,925
Other7,782
 7,980
 7,786
57,917
 17,376
 18,391
Total non-interest expense91,957
 90,111
 83,170
208,428
 91,041
 91,957
Income before income tax expense26,047
 14,546
 27,365
Income tax expense6,159
 2,807
 6,873
Income before income taxes37,830
 36,668
 26,047
Income taxes10,152
 11,414
 6,159
Net income$19,888
 $11,739
 $20,492
$27,678
 $25,254
 $19,888
Weighted average common shares:     
   
Basic38,227,653
 37,452,596
 38,161,180
80,268,970
 43,734,425
 38,227,653
Diluted38,248,046
 37,453,542
 38,185,122
80,534,043
 43,783,053
 38,248,046
Earnings per common share     
Earnings per common share:
   
Basic$0.52
 $0.31
 $0.54
$0.34
 $0.58
 $0.52
Diluted$0.52
 $0.31
 $0.54
0.34
 0.58
 0.52
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
6064


PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
For the yearsyear ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010
(Dollars in thousands, except share data)


 2012 2011 2010
Net income:$19,888
 $11,739
 $20,492
Other comprehensive income:     
Net unrealized holding gains on securities available for sale net of related tax expense of $5,220, $4,624 and $5,4357,641
 6,762
 7,963
Less:     
Reclassification adjustment for net realized gains included in net income, net of related income tax expense of $4,245, $4,065 and $3,3136,206
 5,946
 4,844
Reclassification adjustment for other than temporary losses included in net income, net of related income tax benefit of $19, $113, and $0(28) (165) 
 1,463
 981
 3,119
Change in funded status of defined benefit plans, net of related income tax expense (benefit) of $205, $(665), and $(327)300
 (969) (472)
  Other comprehensive income1,763
 12
 2,647
Total comprehensive income$21,651
 $11,751
 $23,139
 2014 2013 2012
Net income$27,678
 $25,254
 $19,888
Other comprehensive income (“OCI”) (loss):     
Change in unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities available for sale15,948
 (37,324) 12,866
Related income tax (expense) benefit(6,778) 15,157
 (5,224)
Change in net unrealized (loss) on securities transferred to held to maturity(8,947) 
 
Related income tax benefit3,803
 
 
Reclassification adjustment for net realized (gains) included in net income(641) (7,391) (10,452)
Related income tax expense272
 3,001
 4,245
Reclassification adjustment for other than temporary impaired losses included in net income
 32
 47
Related income tax benefit
 (13) (19)
Total OCI securities component3,657
 (26,538) 1,463
Acceleration of future amortization of accumulated other comprehensive loss on defined benefit pension plan and change in funded status of defined benefit plans372
 7,255
 505
Related income tax (expense)(158) (2,946) (205)
  Other comprehensive income (loss)3,871
 (22,229) 1,763
Total comprehensive income$31,549
 $3,025
 $21,651
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

6165


PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity
Years EndedFor the year ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


 
Number of
Shares
 
Common
Stock
 
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 
Unallocated
ESOP
Shares
 
Treasury
Stock
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (loss)
 
Total
Stockholders’
Equity
Balance at October 1, 200939,547,207
 $459
 $355,753
 $(7,136) $(77,290) $153,193
 $2,477
 $427,456
Net income          20,492
   20,492
Other comprehensive income            2,647
 2,647
Deferred compensation transactions
 
 87
 
 
 
 
 87
Stock option transactions, net249,953
 
 247
 
 3,016
 (2,036) 
 1,227
ESOP shares allocated or committed to be released for allocation (49,932 shares)
 
 (58) 499
 
 
 
 441
Vesting of RRP shares
 
 883
 
   
 
 883
Other RRP transactions(18,949) 
 
 
 (177) 
 
 (177)
Purchase of treasury stock(1,515,923) 
 
 
 (12,885) 
 
 (12,885)
Cash dividends paid ($0.24 per common share)
 
 
 
 
 (9,216) 
 (9,216)
Balance at September 30, 201038,262,288
 459
 356,912
 (6,637) (87,336) 162,433
 5,124
 430,955
Net income          11,739
   11,739
Other comprehensive income            12
 12
Deferred compensation transactions
 
 45
 
 
 
 
 45
Stock option transactions, net
 
 558
 
 
 
 
 558
ESOP shares allocated or committed to be released for allocation (49,932 shares)
 
 (59) 499
 
 
 
 440
RRP awards63,870
 
 (561) 
 561
 
 
 
Vesting of RRP shares
 
 168
 
 
 
 
 168
Other RRP transactions(4,696) 
 
 
 (30) 
 
 (30)
Purchase of treasury stock(457,454) 
 
 
 (3,780) 
 
 (3,780)
Cash dividends paid ($0.24 per common share)
 
 
 
 
 (8,973) 
 (8,973)
Balance at September 30, 201137,864,008
 459
 357,063
 (6,138) (90,585) 165,199
 5,136
 431,134
Net income
 
 
 
 
 19,888
 
 19,888
Other comprehensive income
 
 
 
 
 
 1,763
 1,763
Deferred compensation transactions
 
 164
 
 
 
 
 164
Stock option transactions, net
 
 521
 
 
 
 
 521
ESOP shares allocated or committed to be released for allocation (49,932 shares)
 
 43
 500
 
 
 
 543
RRP awards58,000
 
 (463) 
 474
 
 
 11
Vesting of RRP shares
 
 276
 
 
 
 
 276
Other RRP transactions(7,042) 
 
 
 (62) 
 
 (62)
Capital raise6,258,504
 63
 45,937
         46,000
Cash dividends paid ($0.24 per common share)
 
 
 
 
 (9,100) 
 (9,100)
Other          (16)   $(16)
Balance at September 30, 201244,173,470
 $522
 $403,541
 $(5,638) $(90,173) $175,971
 $6,899
 $491,122
 
Number of
shares
 
Common
stock
 
Additional
paid-in
capital
 
Unallocated
ESOP
shares
 
Treasury
stock
 
Retained
earnings
 
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss)
 
Total
stockholders’
equity
Balance at October 1, 201137,864,008
 $459
 $357,063
 $(6,138) $(90,585) $165,199
 $5,136
 $431,134
Net income
 
 
 
 
 19,888
 
 19,888
Other comprehensive income
 
 
 
 
 
 1,763
 1,763
Stock option & other stock transactions, net
 
 685
 
 
 
 
 685
ESOP shares allocated or committed to be released for allocation (49,932 shares)
 
 43
 500
 
 
 
 543
Restricted stock awards, net50,958
 
 (187) 
 412
 (16) 
 209
Capital raise6,258,504
 63
 45,937
 
 
 
 
 46,000
Cash dividends declared ($0.24 per common share)
 
 
 
 
 (9,100) 
 (9,100)
Balance at September 30, 201244,173,470
 522
 403,541
 (5,638) (90,173) 175,971
 6,899
 491,122
Net income
 
 
 
 
 25,254
 
 25,254
Other comprehensive income
 
 
 
 
 
 (22,229) (22,229)
Stock option & other stock transactions, net8,250
 
 730
 
 95
 (33) 
 792
ESOP shares allocated or committed to be released for allocation (49,932 shares)
 
 119
 145
 
 
 
 264
Restricted stock awards, net169,326
 
 (574) 
 1,540
 
 
 966
Cash dividends declared ($0.30 per common share)
 
 
 
 
 (13,303) 
 (13,303)
Balance at September 30, 201344,351,046
 522
 403,816
 (5,493) (88,538) 187,889
 (15,330) 482,866
Net income
 
 
 
 
 27,678
 
 27,678
Other comprehensive income
 
 
 
 
 
 3,871
 3,871
Common stock issued in Legacy Sterling merger transaction39,057,968
 390
 457,362
 
 
 
 
 457,752
Stock option & other stock transactions, net267,188
 
 880
 
 3,333
 (430) 
 3,783
ESOP shares allocated and ESOP termination(488,403) 
 1,280
 5,493
 (5,983) 
 
 790
Restricted stock awards, net440,468
 
 (2,774) 
 4,849
 
 
 2,075
Cash dividends declared ($0.21 per common share)
 
 
 
 
 (17,677) 
 (17,677)
Balance at September 30, 201483,628,267
 $912
 $860,564
 $
 $(86,339) $197,460
 $(11,459) $961,138
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

6266

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the Year Ended September 30,
(Dollars in thousands)


PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010
(Dollars in thousands)

2012 2011 20102014 2013 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:          
Net income$19,888
 $11,739
 $20,492
$27,678
 $25,254
 $19,888
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities     
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:     
Provisions for loan losses10,612
 16,584
 10,000
19,100
 12,150
 10,612
(Gain) loss on other real estate owned694
 869
 (18)
(Gain) loss and write-downs on other real estate owned(1,208) 1,285
 694
(Gain) on redemption of Subordinated Debentures(712) 
 
Depreciation of premises and equipment4,746
 6,177
 5,144
6,507
 4,243
 4,746
Impairment of premises and equipment11,043
 
 
Amortization of intangibles1,245
 1,426
 1,849
9,408
 1,296
 1,245
Amortization of low income housing tax credit520
 
 
Net gain on sale of securities(10,452) (10,011) (8,157)(641) (7,391) (10,452)
Other than temporary impairment (credit loss)47
 278
 
Fair value loss on interest rate cap63
 197
 1,106
Write down on assets held for sale135
 
 
Net gains on loans held for sale(1,897) (1,027) (867)(8,086) (1,979) (1,897)
(Gain) loss on sale of premises and equipment(75) 
 54
(93) 75
 (75)
Net amortization of premium and discounts on securities(1,006) 3,181
 3,209
Accrued restructuring expense
 3,201
 
Accretion of premiums on borrowings (includes calls on borrowings)(67) (30) (223)
Amortization of payment fees on restructured borrowings1,459
 1,033
 
ESOP and RRP expense667
 607
 1,325
ESOP forfeitures(1) (3) (29)
Net amortization of premium and discount on securities3,176
 2,068
 (1,006)
Change in unamortized acquisition costs and premiums1,028
 1,050
 
Accretion of premium on borrowings (includes calls on borrowings), net(446) 87
 (67)
Amortization of pre-payment fees on restructured borrowings1,302
 1,466
 1,459
ESOP and restricted stock expense2,803
 1,544
 667
Stock option compensation expense521
 558
 247
901
 695
 521
Originations of loans held for sale(80,579) (49,807) (52,839)(462,030) (85,657) (80,579)
Proceeds from sales of loans held for sale79,147
 52,548
 49,029
483,622
 94,130
 79,147
Increase in cash surrender value of bank owned life insurance(2,050) (2,049) (1,327)(3,198) (1,998) (2,050)
Increase in assets held for sale
 
 
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense(64) 118
 26
(3,507) 719
 (64)
Net changes in accrued interest receivable and payable(66) 674
 (1,536)
Trade date securities
 
 
Other adjustments (principally net changes in other assets and other liabilities)2,059
 (9,785) (5,624)40,497
 (26,413) 2,237
Net cash provided by operating activities25,026
 26,478
 21,861
127,664
 22,624
 25,026
Cash flows from investing activities:          
Purchases of securities:          
Available for sale(679,553) (622,551) (830,613)(407,438) (490,160) (679,553)
Held to maturity(95,157) (93,764) (23,023)(172,899) (169,320) (95,157)
Proceeds from maturities, calls and other principal payments on securities     
Proceeds from maturities, calls and other principal payments on securities:     
Available for sale174,497
 251,774
 328,993
163,199
 168,771
 174,497
Held to maturity63,037
 17,220
 33,780
31,227
 55,866
 63,037
Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale344,431
 540,145
 443,389
529,107
 339,123
 344,431
Proceeds from sales of securities held to maturity
 357
 

 1,187
 
Loan originations(735,676) (578,631) (472,066)
Loan originations, net(659,013) (310,615) (226,616)
(Purchases) of FHLB and FRB stock, net(34,093) (5,063) (620)
Proceeds from sales of other real estate owned9,645
 4,730
 3,468
Purchases of premises and equipment(2,584) (2,355) (1,853)
Proceeds from sale of Hudson Valley Investment Advisors
 4,738
 
Proceeds from sale of fixed assets310
 
 75
Purchase low income housing tax credit(1,966) 
 
Cash received from acquisitions277,798
 
 126,818
Net cash (used in) investing activities(266,707) (403,098) (291,473)

6367

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the Year Ended September 30,
(Dollars in thousands)


PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Continued
Years Ended September 30, 2011, 2010 and 2009
(Dollars in thousands)
Loan principal payments509,060
 553,235
 461,632
Purchase of interest rate cap derivatives
 
 (1,368)
Proceeds from sale of FHLB stock, net(620) 1,988
 3,605
Proceeds from sales of other real estate owned3,468
 301
 
Purchases of premises and equipment(1,853) (3,465) (8,152)
Proceeds from the sale of fixed assets75
 
 48
Purchases of bank owned life insurance
 (3,980) 
Cash received from Gotham acquisition126,818
 
 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities(291,473) 62,629
 (63,775)
Cash flows from financing activities     
Net increase in transaction, savings and money market deposits499,340
 227,907
 177,808
Net decrease in time deposits(53,786) (73,914) (117,388)
Net decrease in short-term borrowings(10,000) (34,840) (62,500)
Gross repayments of long-term borrowings(5,244) (1,238) (4,152)
Restructured Debt5,000
 
 
Repayment of senior unsecured note(51,499) 
 
Payments of pre-payment fees on FHLBNY advances(278) (5,151) 
Net (decrease) increase in mortgage escrow funds2,218
 1,503
 (207)
Treasury shares purchased
 (3,810) (13,062)
Stock option transactions102
 4
 1,008
Other stock-based compensation transactions164
 45
 87
Capital raise46,000
 
 
Cash dividends paid(9,100) (8,973) (9,216)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities422,917
 101,533
 (27,622)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents156,470
 190,640
 (69,536)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year281,512
 90,872
 160,408
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$437,982
 $281,512
 $90,872
Supplemental cash flow information:     
  Interest payments$18,447
 $21,815
 $27,379
  Income tax payments1,873
 9,070
 7,993
Loans transferred to other real estate owned6,148
 1,932
 2,943
Securities purchases settled in subsequent periods41,758
 
 
      
Acquisitions:     
Non-cash assets acquired:     
Investments available for sale54,994
 
 
Total loans, net205,453
 
 
Loans FHLB Stock1,045
 
 
Accrued interest receivable417
 
 
Goodwill5,665
 
 
Core deposit intangibles4,818
 
 
Premises and equipment, net490
 
 
Other assets1,663
 
 
 2014 2013 2012
Cash flows from financing activities:     
Net increase (decrease) in transaction, savings and money market deposits301,028
 (29,503) 499,340
Net (decrease) in time deposits(261,858) (119,354) (53,786)
Net increase (decrease) in short-term FHLB borrowings103,000
 91,528
 (5,000)
Net increase (decrease) in long-term FHLB borrowings147,506
 24,783
 (5,244)
Net (decrease) in repurchase agreements and other short-term borrowings(37,177) 
 
Redemption of Subordinated Debentures(26,140) 
 
Payments of pre-payment fees on FHLB borrowings
 
 (278)
Repayment of senior unsecured note
 
 (51,499)
Net proceeds from Senior Notes
 97,946
 
Net increase in mortgage escrow funds(8,152) 727
 2,218
Stock option transactions2,980
 62
 102
Other stock-based compensation transactions62
 35
 164
Equity capital raise
 
 46,000
Cash dividends paid(17,677) (10,642) (9,100)
Net cash provided by financing activities203,572
 55,582
 422,917
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents64,529
 (324,892) 156,470
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year113,090
 437,982
 281,512
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$177,619
 $113,090
 $437,982
Supplemental cash flow information:     
  Interest payments$29,419
 $18,831
 $18,447
  Income tax payments12,473
 4,475
 1,873
Real estate acquired in settlement of loans2,542
 5,634
 6,148
Unsettled securities transactions
 
 41,758
Dividends declared, not yet paid
 2,661
 
      
Acquisitions:     
Non-cash assets acquired:     
Securities available for sale$233,190
 $
 $54,994
Securities held to maturity374,721
 


Loans held for sale30,341
 
 
Total loans, net1,698,108
 
 205,453
FHLB stock7,680
 
 1,045
Accrued interest receivable6,590
 
 417
Goodwill225,809
 
 5,535
Trade name20,500




Core deposit intangibles20,089
 
 4,818
Bank owned life insurance55,374




Premises and equipment, net23,594
 
 490
Other real estate owned5,815
 
 
Other assets20,933
 
 1,793
Total non-cash assets acquired2,722,744
 
 274,545

6468

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the Year Ended September 30,
(Dollars in thousands)


PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Continued
Years Ended September 30, 2011, 2010 and 2009
(Dollars in thousands)
Total non-cash assets acquired274,545


Liabilities assumed:





Deposits368,902


FHLB and other borrowings30,784


Other liabilities1,677


Total liabilities assumed401,363


Net non-cash assets (liabilities) acquired(126,818)

Cash and cash equivalents acquired (paid) in acquisitions126,818


 2014 2013 2012
Liabilities assumed:     
Deposits2,297,190
 
 368,902
FHLB and other borrowings100,619
 
 30,784
Other borrowings62,465
 
 
Subordinated debentures26,527
 
 
Other liabilities55,960
 
 1,677
Total liabilities assumed$2,542,761
 $
 $401,363
      
Net non-cash (liabilities) acquired$179,983
 $
 $(126,818)
Cash and cash equivalents acquired in acquisitions277,798
 
 126,818
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


6569


PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


(1) Basis of Financial Statement Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Merger with Sterling Bancorp
On October 31, 2013, Provident New York Bancorp (“Legacy Provident”) merged with Sterling Bancorp (“Legacy Sterling”). In connection with the merger, the following corporate actions occurred:

Legacy Sterling merged with and into Legacy Provident. Legacy Provident was the accounting acquirer and the surviving entity.
Legacy Provident changed its legal entity name to Sterling Bancorp and became a bank holding company and a financial holding company as defined by the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (“Sterling” or the “Company”).
Provident Bank converted to a national bank charter.
Sterling National Bank merged into Provident Bank.
Provident Bank changed its legal entity name to Sterling National Bank.
Provident Municipal Bank merged into Sterling National Bank.

We refer to the transactions detailed above collectively as the “Merger.”

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Provident New York Bancorp (“Provident Bancorp” or “the Company”Sterling; STL Holdings, Inc. (formerly PBNY Holdings, Inc.) which has an investment in Sterling Silver Title Agency L.P. (formerly PB Madison Title Agency L.P.), Hardenburgh Abstract Title Company, whicha company that provides title searches and title insurance for residential and commercial real estate, Hudson Valley Investment Advisors,estate; LandSave Development, LLC (“HVIA”) a registered investment advisor,an inactive subsidiary, which was dissolved on September 30, 2014; Sterling Risk Management, Inc. (formerly Provident Risk Management, (aInc., a captive insurance company), Provident; Sterling National Bank (“the Bank”(the “Bank”) and the Bank’s wholly ownedwholly-owned subsidiaries. These subsidiaries areincluded at September 30, 2014: (i) Provident Municipal Bank (“PMB”) which is a limited-purpose, New York State-chartered commercial bank formed to accept deposits from municipalities in the Company’s market area, (ii) ProvidentSterling REIT, Inc. and WSB Funding, Inc. which area real estate investment truststrust that holdholds a portion of the Company’s real estate loans, (iii)loans; (ii) Provest Services Corp. I, which has invested in a low-income housing partnership, and (iv)partnership; (iii) Provest Services Corp. II, which has engaged a third-party provider to sell mutual funds and annuities to the Bank’s customers and (v) Limited Liability Companies,(iv) several limited liability companies which hold foreclosed properties acquired by the bank.other real estate owned. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Certain amounts from prior years have been reclassified to conform to the current fiscal year presentation. Reclassifications had no affect on prior year net income or shareholders’stockholders’ equity.

(a) Nature of Business
Provident New York Bancorp (“Provident Bancorp” orSince October 31, 2013, Sterling is a bank holding company and financial holding company under the “Company”), a unitary savings and loan holding company,Bank Holding Company Act of 1956. Sterling is a Delaware corporation that owns all of the outstanding shares of Provident Bank (the “Bank”). Provident Bancorp was formed in connection with the second step offeringBank. Sterling is listed on January 14, 2004.

On June 29, 2005, Provident Bancorp, Inc. changed its name to Provident New York Bancorp in order to differentiate itself from the numerous bank holding companies with similar names. It began trading on the NASDAQ under the stock symbol “PBNY” on that date. Prior to that date, from January 7, 1999 its common stock traded under the stock symbol “PBCP.” On December 28, 2011, Provident Bancorp changed from trading on the NASDAQ to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)(“NYSE”) under the same symbol PBNY.STL.

ProvidentThe Bank, an independent, full-service bank founded in 1888, is headquartered in Montebello, New York and is the principal bank subsidiary of Provident Bancorp. ProvidentSterling. The Bank accounts for substantially all of Provident Bancorp’sSterling’s consolidated assets and net income. We operateThe Bank operates through commercial banking teams and financial centers which serve the greater New York metropolitan area . There are offices located in Rockland County,region. The Bank targets the following geographic markets: (i) the New York Orange County,Metro Market, which includes Manhattan and Long Island; and (ii) the New York Suburban Market, which consists of Rockland, Orange, Sullivan, Ulster, Putnam and Westchester and Putnam Counties,counties in New York City, and Bergen County in New Jersey which operate under the name PBNY Bank, a division of Provident Bank, New York. Provident Bank offers a complete line of commercial, business banking (small business), wealth management, and consumer banking products and services. Jersey.

The Bank’s principal business is accepting deposits and, together with funds generated from operations and borrowings, investing in various types of loans and securities. TheIn connection with the Merger, the Bank isbecame a federally-chartered savings associationnational bank and its deposits are insured up to applicable limits by the Deposit Insurance Fund of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)(“FDIC”). The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”) and the Federal Reserve Bank isBoard are the primary regulatorregulators for Provident Bancorp.

At September 30, 2012,the Bank and the Company, had $4.5 million of assets held for sale that represented the assets of HVIA. The Company entered into an agreement to sell HVIA subsequent to September 30, 2012. The transaction closed on November 16, 2012.respectively.

(b) Use of estimates
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.GAAP. In preparing the consolidated financial statements, the Company is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expense. Actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. An estimate that is particularly susceptible to significant near-term change is the allowance for loan losses, which is discussed below. Also subject to change are estimates involving goodwill impairment evaluations, mortgage servicing rights, benefit plans, deferred income taxes and fair values of financial instruments.
 

6670

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


(c) Cash Flows
For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash equivalents include highly liquid, short-term investments such as overnight federal funds, as well as cash and deposits with other financial institutions. Net cash flows are reported for customer loan and deposit transactions and short-term borrowings with an original maturity of 90 days or less.

(d) Restrictions on Cash
CashThe Bank was required to have $28.7 million and $14.6 million of cash on hand or on deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank was required to meet regulatory reserve and clearing requirements.requirements at September 30, 2014 and 2013.

(e) Long TermLong-Term Assets
Premises and equipment, core deposit and other intangible assets are reviewed annually for impairment or when events indicate their carrying amount may not be recoverable from future undiscounted cash flows. If impaired, the assets are recorded at fair value.

(f) Fair Values of Financial Instruments
Fair values of financial instruments are estimated using relevant market information and other assumptions, as more fully disclosed in a separate note. Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment regarding interest rates, credit risk, prepayments, and other factors, especially in the absence of broad markets for particular items. Changes in assumptions or in market conditions could significantly affect the estimates. (See note 18)Note 17. “Fair Value Measurements”)

(g) Adoption of New Accounting Standards

Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2011-03, Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860)2014-01Reconsideration of Effective ControlInvestments - Equity method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323): Accounting for Repurchase AgreementsInvestments in Qualified Affordable Housing Projects has been issued, which is to improve the accounting for repurchase agreements and other agreements that both entitle and obligate a transferor to repurchase or redeem financial assets before their maturity. This standard was effective for the Company on January 1, 2012 and did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2011-04, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820)-Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRS has been issued, which will conform the meaning and disclosure requirements of fair value measurement between U.S. GAAP and IFRS. This standard was effective for the Company on January 1, 2012 and did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2011-05- Presentation of Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) has been issued. This standard was issuedprovides reporting guidance for entities that invest in qualified affordable housing projects through limited liability entities that are flow through entities for tax purposes. The amendments in this ASU eliminate the effective yield election and permit the Company to conform U.S. GAAPmake an accounting policy election to account for its investment in qualified affordable housing projects using the proportional amortization method if certain conditions are met. Under the proportional amortization method, the Company amortizes the initial cost of the investment in proportion to the tax credits and IFRSother tax benefits received and recognizes the net investment performance in the statement of operations as well asa component of income tax expense. The amendments in this ASU should be applied retrospectively to increaseall periods presented. The Company adopted this ASU in the prominencequarter ended March 31, 2014, which coincided with the Company’s initial recognition of items reported in other comprehensive income.low income housing tax credits. The adoption of this amendment had no impact onASU resulted in a $508 income tax benefit and a $520 expense associated with the consolidated financial statements asamortization of the prior presentation of comprehensive income was in compliance with this amendment.Company’s investment for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014.

(h) Securities
Securities include U.S. Treasury, U.S. Government Agency and Government Sponsored Agencies, municipal and corporate bonds, mortgage-backed securities, collateralized mortgage obligations and marketable equitytrust preferred securities.

The Company can classify its securities among three categories: held to maturity, trading, and available-for-sale. We determineavailable for sale. The Company determines the appropriate classification of the Company’s securities at the time of purchase.
Held-to-maturity
Held to maturity securities are limited to debt securities for which we havethere is the intent and the Company has the ability to hold to maturity. These securities are reported at amortized cost.

Trading securities are debt and equity securities held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term.near-term. These securities are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses included in earnings. The Company does not engage in securities trading activities.

All other debt and marketable equity securities are classified as available for sale. These securities are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses (net of the related deferred income tax effect) excluded from earnings and reported in a separate component of stockholders’ equity (accumulated other comprehensive income or loss). Available-for-saleAvailable for sale securities include securities that we intendthe Company intends to hold for an indefinite period of time, such as securities to be used as part

67

PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


of the Company’s asset/liability management strategy or securities that may be sold to fund loan growth, in response to changes in interest rates, changes in prepayment risks, the need to increase capital, or similar factors.

Premiums and discounts on debt securities are recognized in interest income on a level yield basis over the period to maturity. Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts on mortgage-backed securities are based on the estimated cash flows of the

71

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

mortgage-backed securities, periodically adjusted for changes in estimated lives, on a level yield basis. The cost of securities sold is determined using the specific identification method.

Securities are evaluated for impairment at least quarterly, and more frequently when economic and market conditions warrant such an evaluation. For securities in an unrealized loss position, we consider the extent and duration of the unrealized loss, and the financial condition of the issuer. The Company also assesses whether it intends to sell, or is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either criteria regarding intent to sell is met, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value is recognized as impairment through earnings. If the Company does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security, the Company does not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the other than temporary impairment is separated into a) the amount representing the credit loss and b) the amount related to all other factors. The amount of other than temporary impairment related to credit loss is recognized in earnings while the amount related to other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes. The cost basis of individual equity securities is written down to estimated fair value through a charge to earnings when declines in value below cost are considered to be other than temporary. As of September 30, 20122014, the Company does not intend to sell nor is it more likely than not that it would be required to sell any of its debt securities with unrealized losses prior to recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current period credit loss.

(i) Loans Held For Sale
Mortgage loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or fair value, as determined by outstanding commitments from investors. In the absence of commitments from investors, fair value is based on current investor yield requirements. Net unrealized losses, if any, are recorded as a valuation allowance and charged to earnings.
Mortgage
Historically mortgage loans held for sale arewere generally sold with servicing rights retained. The carrying value of mortgage loans sold is reduced by the amount allocated to the value of the servicing rightrights which is its fair value. Gains and losses on sales of mortgage loans are based on the difference between the selling price and the carrying value of the related loan sold.

(j) Servicing Rights
When mortgage loans are sold with servicing retained, servicing rights are initially recorded at fair value with the income statement effect recorded in gains on sales of loans. 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 income. All classes of servicing assets are subsequently measured using the amortization method which requires servicing rights to be amortized into non-interest income in proportion to, and over the period of, the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying loans.

Under the amortization measurement method, the Company subsequently measures servicing rights at fair value at each reporting date and records any impairment in value of servicing assets in earnings in the period in which the impairment occurs. The fair values of servicing rights are subject to significant fluctuations as a result of changes in estimated and actual prepayment speeds and default rates and losses.

Servicing fee income, which is reported on the income statement as other income, is recorded for fees earned for servicing loans. The fees are based on a contractual percentage of the outstanding principal;principal or a fixed amount per loan, and are recorded as income when earned. Servicing fees totaled $695911, $623778 and $507695 for the years ended September 30, 20122014, 20112013 and 20102012, respectively. Late fees and ancillary fees related to loan servicing are not material. Effective October 1, 2013, the Bank outsourced servicing of residential mortgage loans to a nationally recognized mortgage loan servicing company.

(k) Loans
Loans where we haveSterling has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff (other than loans held for sale) are reported at amortized cost less the allowance for loan losses. Interest income on loans is accrued on the unpaid principal balance.

A loan is placed on non-accrual status upon the earlier of (i) when we have determinedSterling determines that the borrower may likely be unable to meet contractual principal or interest obligations, or (ii) when payments are 90 days or more past due, unless well secured and in the process

68

PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


of collection. Accrual of interest ceases and, in general, uncollected past due interest is reversed and charged against current interest income, related to the current year while interest recorded in the prior year is charged to the allowance for loan losses.income. Interest payments received on non-accrual loans, including impaired loans, are not recognized as income unless warranted based on the borrower’s financial condition and payment record. Furthermore, negative tax escrow will be included in the unpaid principal for loans individually evaluated for impairment, as this is part of the customer'scustomer’s legal obligation to the company.Company.

72

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The Company defers nonrefundable loan origination and commitment fees, and certain direct loan origination costs, and amortizes the net amount as an adjustment of the yield over the estimated life of the loan. If a loan is prepaid or sold, the net deferred amount is recognized in the statement of income at that time. Interest and fees on loans include prepayment fees and late charges collected.
 
(l) Allowance for Loan Losses

The allowance for loan losses is a valuation allowancereserve established through a provision for loan losses charged to expense, which represents management’s best estimate of probable incurred credit losses.  losses inherent in the loan portfolio. The allowance for loan losses is a critical accounting estimate and requires substantial judgment of management. The allowance for loan losses includes allowance allocations calculated in accordance with ASC Subtopic 450-20, “Loss Contingencies” and ASC Subtopic 310-35-2, Loan losses are charged againstImpairment.” The level of the allowance whenreflects management’s continuing evaluation of loan loss experience, specific credit risks, current loan portfolio quality, industry and loan type concentrations, economic and regulatory conditions and unidentified losses inherent in the Company believesloan portfolios, as well as trends in the uncollectibility of a loan balance is confirmed.foregoing. The Company analyzes loans by two broad segments or classes:segments: real estate secured loans and loans that are either unsecured or secured by other collateral.

The segments or classes considered real estate secured are: residential mortgage loans; commercial mortgagereal estate (“CRE”) loans; commercial mortgage community business banking CRE; multi-family loans; acquisition, development and construction (“ADC”) loans; homeowner loans, and home equity lines of credit. The segments or classes considered unsecured or secured by other than real estate collateral are: commercial & industrial (“C&I”) loans; payroll finance loans, warehouse lending; factored receivables; equipment finance loans; business loans, commercial community businessbanking C&I loans and consumer loans. In all segments or classes, significant loans are reviewed for impairment once they are past due 90 days or more or are classified substandard or doubtful. Generally the Company considers a homogeneous residential mortgage or home equity line of credit to be significant if the Company’s investment in the loan is greater than $500. If a loan is deemed to be impaired in one of the real estate secured segments,segment, it is generally considered collateral dependent. If the value of the collateral securing a collateral dependent impaired loan is less than the loan'sloan’s carrying value, a charge-off is recognized equal to the difference between the appraised value and the book value of the loan. Additionally, impairment reserves are recognized for estimated costs to hold and to liquidate and for a 10% discount ofon the appraisal value. The rangesrange for the costs to hold and liquidate areis 12-2222%% for the following segments: commercial mortgage loans, commercial mortgage communityCRE, business mortgage loansbanking CRE and ADC loans and is 7-1313% % for homeowner loans, home equity lines of credit, and residential mortgage loans. Impaired loans in the real estate secured segments are re-appraised using a summary or drive-by appraisal report every six to nine months.

For loans in the commercial community business loans segmentbanking C&I class we charge offcharge-off the full amount of the loan when it becomes 90 days or more past due, or earlier in the case of bankruptcy, after giving effect to any cash or marketable securities pledged as collateral for the loan. For other classes of C&I loans, in the commercial business loan segment, we conductprepare a cash flow projection, and charge offcharge-off the difference between the net present value of the cash flows discounted at the effective note rate and the carrying value of the loan, and generally recognize a 10% impairment reserve to account for the potential imprecision of our estimates. However, foron most of these cases receipt of future cash flows is too unreliable to be considered probable, resulting in the charge offcharge-off of the entire balance of the loan. For unsecured consumer loans, chargecharg0- offs are recognized once the loan is 90 to 120 days or more past due or the borrower files for bankruptcy protection.

Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance.allowance for loan losses. The allowance for loan losses consists of amounts specifically allocated to non-performing loans and other criticized or classified loans (if any), as well as allowances determined for the pass rated loans in each major loan category. After we establish a provisionan allowance for loan losses for loans that are known to be non-performing, criticized or classified, we calculate a percentage to apply to the remaining loan portfolio to estimate the probable incurred losses inherent in that portion of the portfolio. These percentages are determined by management, based on historical loss experience for the applicable loan category,class, and are adjusted to reflect our evaluation of:

levels of, and trends in, delinquencies and non-accruals;
trends in volume and terms of loans;
effects of any changes in lending policies and procedures;
experience, ability, and depth of lending management and staff;
national and local economic trends and conditions;
concentrations of credit by such factors as location, industry, inter-relationships, and borrower; and for commercial loans, trends in risk ratings.

Commercial real estate loans subject us to the risks that the property securing the loan may not generate sufficient cash flow to service the debt or the borrower may use the cash flow for other purposes. In addition, if necessary, the foreclosure process may be slow and properties may deteriorate in the process. The market values are also subject to a wide variety of factors, including general economic conditions, industry specific factors, environmental factors, interest rates and the availability and terms of credit.

6973

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


Commercial business lending presents a risk because repayment depends on the successful operation of the business which is subject to a wide range of risks and uncertainties. In addition, the ability to successfully liquidate collateral, if any, is subject to a variety of risks because we must gain control of assets used in the borrower’s business before foreclosing which we cannot be assured of doing, and the value in a foreclosure sale or other means of liquidation is uncertain.

Land acquisition,Acquisition, development and construction (“ADC”) lending is considered higher risk and exposes us to greater credit risk than permanent mortgage financing. The repayment of land acquisition, development and constructionADC loans depends upon the sale of the property to third parties or the availability of permanent financing upon completion of all improvements. In the event we make ana land acquisition loan on property that is not yet approved for the planned development, there is the risk that approvals will not be granted or will be delayed. These events may adversely affect the borrower and the collateral value of the property. Development and construction loans also expose us to the risk that improvements will not be completed on time or in accordance with specifications and projected costs. In addition, the ultimate sale or rental of the property may not occur as anticipated. All of these factors are considered as part of the underwriting, structuring and pricing of the loan. We have deemphasized this type of loan.lending.
Commercial real estate loans subject us to the risks that the property securing the loan may not generate sufficient cash flow to service the debt or the borrower may use the cash flow for other purposes. In addition, the foreclosure process, if necessary may be slow and properties may deteriorate in the process. The market values are also subject to a wide variety of factors, including general economic conditions, industry specific factors, environmental factors, interest rates and the availability and terms of credit.
Commercial business lending is also higher risk because repayment depends on the successful operation of the business which is subject to a wide range of risks and uncertainties. In addition, the ability to successfully liquidate collateral, if any, is subject to a variety of risks because we must gain control of assets used in the borrower's business before foreclosing which we cannot be assured of doing, and the value in a foreclosure sale or other means of liquidation is subject to downward pressure.
When we evaluate residential mortgage loans and home equity loans we weigh both the credit capacity of the borrower and the collateral value of the home. AsIf unemployment andor underemployment increases, and liquidity reserves if any, diminish,increase, the credit capacity of the borrower decreases,underlying borrowers will decrease, which increases our risk. Also, afterSimilarly, as we obtain a period of years of stable or increasing home values in our market,mortgage on the property, if home prices have declined from a high in 2005 and 2006. Wedecline, we are exposed to risk in both our first mortgage and equity lending programs due to declines in values in recent years.the value of our collateral. We are also exposed to risk because the time to foreclose is significant and has become longer under current market conditions.
The carrying value of loans is periodically evaluated and the allowance is adjusted accordingly. While management uses the best information available to make evaluations, future adjustments to the allowance may be necessary if conditions differ substantially from the information used in making the evaluations. In addition, as an integral part of their examination process, our regulatory agencies periodically review the allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require us to recognize additions to the allowance based on their judgments of information available to them at the time of their examination.
(m) Troubled Debt RestructureRestructuring
Troubled debt restructures ("TDR"restructuring (TDR) areis a formally renegotiated loansloan in which the Bank, for which concessionseconomic or legal reasons related to a borrower’s financial difficulties, grants a concession to the borrower that would not have been granted to the borrower that the Company would not have otherwise granted and the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty.otherwise. Not all loans that are restructured as a TDR are classified as non accrualnon-accrual before the restructuring occurs. Restructured loans can convert from non accrualnon-accrual to accrual status when said loans have demonstrated performance, generally evidenced bysix months of consistent payment performance in accordance with the restructured terms, or by the presence of other significant items.

(n) Federal Reserve Bank of New York and Federal Home Loan Bank Stock
As a member of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (“FRB”) and the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of New York (“FHLB”), the Bank is required to hold a certain amount of FRB and FHLB common stock. This stock is a non-marketable equity security and, accordingly, is reported at cost.

(o) Premises and Equipment
Land is reported at cost, while premises and equipment are reported at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, which range from three years for equipment and 40 years for premises. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the terms of the respective leases, including renewal options, or the estimated useful lives of the improvements, whichever is shorter. Routine holding costs are charged to expense as incurred, while significant improvements are capitalized.

70

PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notesthe carrying amount of assets (generally assets associated with a financial center) over the fair value of the assets. Fair value is determined by third-party valuations and evaluations prepared by management. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014, the Company recognized premises and equipment impairment charges of $9.3 million related to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollarsfinancial center consolidations as a result of the Merger. These charges were included in thousands, except per share data)other non-interest expense in the income statement.


(p) Goodwill, Trade Names and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill resulting from business combinations represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets of businesses acquired. Goodwill and intangible assetstrade names acquired in a purchase business combination and determined to have an indefinite useful life are not amortized, but tested for impairment at least annually. Goodwill isand trade name are the only intangible assetassets with an indefinite life on our balance sheet.

The Company accounts for goodwill, trade names and other intangible assets in accordance with GAAP, which, in general, requires that goodwill and trade names not be amortized, but rather that itthey be tested for impairment at least annually at the reporting unit level. There are two stepsThe Company has the option to first perform a qualitative assessment to test goodwill for impairment on a reporting-unit-by-reporting-unit basis. If, after performing the process:qualitative assessment, the Company concludes that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the Company will perform the two-step process described below:


74

Table of Contents
STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

1.Identify potential impairments by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying amount, including goodwill. Goodwill is not considered impaired as long as the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than its carrying value. The second step is only required if a potential impairment to goodwill is identified in step one.

2.Compare the implied fair value of goodwill to its carrying amount, where the implied fair value of goodwill is computed on a residual basis, that is, by subtracting the sum of the fair values of the individual asset categories (tangible and intangible) from the indicated fair value of the reporting unit as determined under step one. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, an impairment loss is recognized. That loss is equal to the carrying amount of goodwill that is in excess of its implied fair value, and it must be presented as a separate line item on financial statements.
The Company estimated the fair value of the reporting unit, Provident Bank, utilizing four valuation methodologies including, (1) the Comparable Transactions approach based on pricing ratios recently paid in the sale or merger of comparable banking franchises; (2) the Control Premium approach based on the Company’s trading price followed by the application of an industry based control premium; (3) the Public Market Peers approach based on the trading prices of similar publicly-traded companies as measured by standard valuation ratios followed by application of an industry based control premium; and, (4) the Discounted Cash Flow approach where value is estimated based on the present value of projected dividends and a terminal value. These approaches were weighted to determine if impairment existed and
At September 30, 2014, the Company determined as of September 30, 2012assessed goodwill for impairment using qualitative factors and concluded the aggregate fair value of the reporting unit exceeded the carrying value and therefore no impairmenttwo-step process was recorded and the step two analysis for determining the impairment was not necessary. Changes in the local and national economy, the federal and state legislative and regulatory environments for financial institutions, the stock market, interest rates and other external factors (such as natural disasters or significant world events) may occur from time to time, often with great unpredictability, and may materially impact the fair value of publicly traded financial institutions and could result in an impairment charge at a future date.unnecessary.

The coreCore deposit intangibles recorded in acquisitions are amortized to expense using an accelerated method over their estimated lives of approximately eight years. Intangibles8 to 10 years. Non-compete agreements are amortized on a straight line basis over their estimated life. Prior to March 31, 2014, intangibles related to the naming rights on Provident Bank Ball Park arewere amortized over 10 years on a straight-line basis. Impairment losses on intangible assets are charged to expense, if and when they occur.

(q) Other Real Estate Owned
Real estate properties acquired through loan foreclosures are recorded initially at estimated fair value, less expected sales costs, with any resulting write-down charged to the allowance for loan losses. Other real estate owned also includes the fair value of the Bank’s financial centers that are held for sale. Any write-down associated with the transfer of a financial center from premises and equipment to other real state owned was included as a charge to other non-interest income in the income statement. Subsequent valuations of other real estate owned are performed by management, and the carrying amount of a property is adjusted by a charge to expense to reflect any subsequent declines in estimated fair value. Fair value estimates are based on recent appraisals and other available information. Routine holding costs are charged to expense as incurred, while significant improvements are capitalized. Gains and losses on sales of real estate owned properties are recognized upon disposition. Foreclosed properties totaled $6.4 million and $5.4 million at September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

(r) Securities Repurchase Agreements
In securities repurchase agreements, the Company transfers securities to a counterparty under an agreement to repurchase the identical securities at a fixed price on a future date. These agreements are accounted for as secured financing transactions since the Company maintains effective control over the transferred securities and the transfer meets other specified criteria. Accordingly, the transaction proceeds are recorded as borrowings and the underlying securities continue to be carried in the Company’s investment securities portfolio. Disclosure of the pledged securities is made in the consolidated statements of financial conditionbalance sheets if the counterparty has the right by contract to sell or re-pledge such collateral.

71

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


(s) Income Taxes
Net deferred taxes are recognized for the estimated future tax effects attributable to “temporary differences” between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of existing assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which the temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax laws or rates is recognized in income tax expense in the period that includes the enactment date of the change.

A deferred tax liability is recognized for all temporary differences that will result in future taxable income. A deferred tax asset is recognized for all temporary differences that will result in future tax deductions, subject to reduction of the asset by a valuation allowance in certain circumstances. This valuation allowance is recognized if, based on an analysis of available evidence, we determine that it is more likely than not that some portion, or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.

The valuation allowance is subject to ongoing adjustment based on changes in circumstances that affect management’s judgment about the realizability of the deferred tax asset. Adjustments to increase or decrease the valuation allowance are charged or credited, respectively, to income tax expense. The Company recognizes interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.

The Company evaluates uncertain tax positions in a two step process. The first step is recognition, which requires a determination of whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination. The second step is measurement. Under the measurement step, a tax position that meets the more likely than not recognition threshold is measured at the largest amount of

75

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Tax positions that previously failed to meet the more likely than not recognition threshold should be recognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in which that threshold is met. PreviouslyA previously recognized tax position that no longer meetmeets the more likely than not recognition threshold should be derecognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in which the threshold is no longer met. The Company did not have any such position as of September 30, 20122014. See note 11 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements”(See Note 10 “Income Taxes”).

(t) Bank Owned Life Insurance (BOLI)
The Company has purchasedowns life insurance policies (purchased and acquired) on certain officers and key executives. Bank owned life insurance is recorded at its cash surrender value (or the amount that can be realized).

(u) Stock-Based Compensation Plans
Compensation expense is recognized for the Employee stock ownership plan (“ESOP”) equal to the fair value of shares that have been allocated or committed to be released for allocation to participants. Any difference between the fair value at that time and the ESOP’s original acquisition cost is charged or credited to stockholders’ equity (additional paid-in capital). The cost of ESOP shares that have not yet been allocated or committed to be released for allocation is deducted from stockholders’ equity.
Compensation cost is recognized for stock options, issued to employees,non-vested stock awards/stock units is based on the fair value of these awards atthe award on the measurement date, which is the date of grant. AThe expense is recognized ratably over the service period of the award. The fair value of stock options is estimated using a Black-Scholes model is utilized to estimatevaluation model. the fair value of stock options.  Compensation cost is recognized over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting period. 
During 2012, 2011 and 2010 the Company issued 515,000, 119,526 and 321,976 new stock-based option awards and recognized total non-cash stock-based compensation cost of $521, $558 and $247. As of September 30, 2012, the total remaining unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options was $1,177. Options granted in 2012 have 3 to 4 year vesting periods.
The Company also has a restricted awards/stock plan in which shares awarded are transferred from treasuryunits is generally the market price of the Company’s common stock at cost with the difference between the fair market value on the grant date and the cost basis of the shares recorded as a reduction to retained earnings or an increase to additional paid-in capital, as applicable. The expense is amortized over the vesting period of the awards. The Company issued 58,000 shares during 2012 and 63,870 during 2011 and no shares were issued in 2010. The total restricted stock compensation cost recognized during 2012, 2011 and 2010 was $276, $168, and $883, respectively. As of September 30, 2012, the total remaining unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted stock was $665. Options granted in 2012 have a two through four year vesting periods.
The Company’s stock-based compensation plans allow for accelerated vesting when employees retire under circumstances in accordance with the terms of the plans. Grants issued subsequent to adoption of FASB ASC Topic 718 (October 1, 2005), which are subject to such accelerated vesting, are expensed over the shorter of the time to retirement age or the vesting schedule in accordance with the grant. Thus the vesting period can be less than the vesting period expressed in the option agreement, depending upon the age of the grantee. As of September 30, 2012, 5,333 restricted shares and 23,183 stock options were potentially subject to accelerated vesting, and have been fully expensed. The Company did not recognize expense associated with the acceleration of restricted shares in 2012, 2011 and 2010. The

72

PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


Company recognized expense associated with the acceleration of 0 shares in 2012, 2011 and 27,000 stock option shares 2010, respectively.
(v) Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share (EPS)(“EPS”) is computed by dividing net income applicable to common stock by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.
 
Diluted EPS is computed in a similar manner, except that the weighted average number of common shares is increased to include incremental shares (computed using the treasury stock method) that would have been outstanding if all potentially dilutive stock options were exercised and unvested RRP sharesrestricted stock became vested during the periods. For purposes of computing both basic and diluted EPS, outstanding shares exclude unallocatedinclude earned ESOP shares.

(w) Segment Information
Public companies are required to report certain financial information about significant revenue- producingrevenue-producing segments of the business for which such information is available and utilized by the chief operating decision maker. As a community-oriented financial institution, substantiallySubstantially all of the Company’s operations occur through the Bank and involve the delivery of loan and deposit products to customers. Management makes operating decisions and assesses performance based on an ongoing review of the communityits banking operation, which constitutes the Company’s only operating segment for financial reporting purposes.

(x) Loss Contingencies
Loss contingencies, including claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business, are recorded as liabilities when the likelihood of loss is probable and an amount or range of loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company does not believe there are such matters that will have a material effect on the financial statements.

(y) Derivatives
At the inception of a derivative contract, the Company designates the derivative as one of three types based on the Company'sCompany’s intentions and belief as to likely effectiveness as a hedge. These three types are (1) a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or of an unrecognized firm commitment ("(fair value hedge"hedge), (2) a hedge of a forecasted transaction or the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability ("(cash flow hedge"hedge), or (3) an instrument with no hedging designation ("(stand-alone derivative"derivative). For a fair value hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative, as well as the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item, are recognized in current earnings as fair values change. For a cash flow hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative is reported in other comprehensive income and is reclassified into earnings in the same periodsperiod during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. For both types of hedges, changes in the fair value of derivatives that are not highly effective in hedging the changes in fair value or expected cash flows of the hedged item are recognized immediately in current earnings. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported currently in earnings, as noninterestnon-interest income. Net cash settlements on derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting are recorded in interest income or interest expense, based on the item being hedged. Net cash settlements on derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported in noninterestnon-interest income. Cash flows on hedges are classified in the cash flow statement the same as the cash flows of the items being hedged.

The Company formally documents the relationship between derivatives and hedged items, as well as the risk-management objective and the strategy for undertaking hedge transactions at the inception of the hedging relationship. This documentation includes linking fair value or cash flow hedges to specific assets and liabilities on the balance sheet or to specific firm commitments or forecasted transactions. The Company also formally assesses, both at the hedge'shedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivative

76

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

instruments that are used are highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the hedged items. The Company discontinues hedge accounting when it determines that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged item, the derivative is settled or terminates, a hedged forecasted transaction is no longer probable, a hedged firm commitment is no longer firm, or treatment of the derivative as a hedge is no longer appropriate or intended.

When hedge accounting is discontinued, subsequent changes in fair value of the derivative are recorded as noninterestnon-interest income. When a fair value hedge is discontinued, the hedged asset or liability is no longer adjusted for changes in fair value and the existing basis adjustment is amortized or accreted over the remaining life of the asset or liability. When a cash flow hedge is discontinued but the hedged cash flows or forecasted transactions are still expected to occur, gains

73

PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


or losses that were accumulated in other comprehensive income are amortized into earnings over the same periods which the hedged transactions will affect earnings.

(z) Loan Commitments and Related Financial Instruments

Financial instruments include off-balance sheet credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and commercial letters of credit, issued to meet customer financing needs. The face amount for these items represents the exposure to loss, before considering customer collateral or ability to repay. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded. 

(2) Acquisitions
On October 31, 2013, the Company completed the Merger. Under the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, Legacy Sterling shareholders received 1.2625 shares of Legacy Provident’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share, for each share of Legacy Sterling common stock, which resulted in the issuance of 39,057,968 shares. Based on the closing stock price of $11.72 per share on October 31, 2013, the aggregate consideration paid to Legacy Sterling shareholders was $457,781, including $23 paid in cash for fractional shares, and $6 which represented outstanding vested stock options. Consistent with the Company’s strategy, the primary reason for the Merger was the expansion of the Company’s geographic footprint and diversification of its business in the greater New York metropolitan region and beyond.

The assets acquired and liabilities assumed were accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. The assets and liabilities, both tangible and intangible, were recorded at their fair values as of October 31, 2013 based on management’s best estimate using the information available as of the Merger date. The application of the acquisition method of accounting resulted in the recognition of goodwill of $225,809, a core deposit intangible of $20,089 and a trade name intangible of $20,500.  As of October 31, 2013, Legacy Sterling had assets with a book value of approximately $2,759,628, loans including loans held for sale with a book value of approximately $1,735,142, and deposits with a book value of approximately $2,296,713. The table below summarizes the amounts recognized as of the Merger date for each major class of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, the estimated fair value adjustments and the amounts recorded in the Company’s financial statements at fair value at the Merger date:

77

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


Consideration paid through Sterling Bancorp common stock issued to Legacy Sterling shareholders$457,781
 Legacy Sterling carrying value Fair value adjustments As recorded at acquisition
Cash and cash equivalents$277,798
 $
 $277,798
Investment securities613,154
 (5,243) (a)607,911
Loans held for sale30,341
 
 30,341
Loans1,704,801
 (6,693) (b)1,698,108
Federal Reserve Bank stock7,680
 
 7,680
Bank owned life insurance55,374
 
 55,374
Premises and equipment21,293
 2,301
 (c)23,594
Accrued interest receivable6,590
 
 6,590
Core deposit and other intangibles
 20,089
 (d)20,089
Trade name intangible
 20,500
 (e)20,500
Other real estate owned1,720
 4,095
 (f)5,815
Other assets40,877
 (19,944) (g)20,933
Deposits(2,296,713) (477) (h)(2,297,190)
FHLB borrowings(100,346) (273) (i)(100,619)
Other borrowings(62,465) 
 (62,465)
Subordinated Debentures(25,774) (753) (j)(26,527)
Other liabilities(60,462) 4,502
 (k)(55,960)
Total identifiable net assets$213,868
 $18,104
 $231,972
      
Goodwill recorded in the Merger    225,809
Goodwill at September 30, 2013    163,117
Goodwill at September 30, 2014    $388,926
Explanation of certain fair value related adjustments:
(a)Represents the fair value adjustment on investment securities held to maturity.
(b)
Represents the elimination of Legacy Sterlings allowance for loan losses and an adjustment of the amortized cost of loans to estimated fair value, which includes an interest rate mark and credit mark. Gross loans acquired were $1,723,447; of the acquired loans, $1,699,271 were not considered purchased credit impaired and we recorded a fair value adjustment of $14,440.
(c)Represents an adjustment to reflect the fair value of leasehold improvements.
(d)Represents intangible assets recorded to reflect the fair value of core deposits and below market rent on leased premises. The core deposit asset was recorded as an identifiable intangible asset and will be amortized on an accelerated basis over the estimated average life of the deposit base. The below market rent intangible asset will be amortized on a straight-line basis over the remaining term of the leases.
(e)
Represents the estimated fair value of Legacy Sterlings trade name. This intangible asset will not be amortized and will be reviewed at least annually for impairment.
(f)Represents an adjustment to an acquired property which Legacy Sterling utilized as a financial center and recorded as premises and equipment. The Company included this asset in OREO as it was held for sale. This asset was sold during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014.
(g)Consists primarily of adjustments in net deferred tax assets resulting from the fair value adjustments related to the acquired assets, liabilities assumed and identifiable intangibles recorded.
(h)Represents the fair value adjustment on deposits as the weighted average interest rate of deposits assumed exceeded the cost of similar funding available in the market at the time of the Merger.
(i)Represents the fair value adjustment on FHLB borrowings as the weighted average interest rate of FHLB borrowings assumed exceeded the cost of similar funding available in the market at the time of the Merger.

78

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

(j)Represents the fair value adjustment on subordinated debentures as the weighted average interest rate of the debentures assumed exceeded the cost of similar debt funding available in the market at the time of the Merger.
(k)Represents the fair value of other liabilities assumed at the Merger date.

Except for collateral dependent loans with deteriorated credit quality, the fair values for loans acquired from Legacy Sterling were estimated using cash flow projections based on the remaining maturity and repricing terms. Cash flows were adjusted by estimating future credit losses and the rate of prepayments. Projected monthly cash flows were then discounted to present value using a risk-adjusted market rate for similar loans. For collateral dependent loans with deteriorated credit quality, fair value was estimated by analyzing the value of the underlying collateral, assuming the fair values of the loans were derived from the eventual sale of the collateral. These values were discounted using market derived rates of return, with consideration given to the period of time and costs associated with the foreclosure and disposition of the collateral. There was no carryover of Legacy Sterling’s allowance for loan losses associated with the loans that were acquired, as the loans were initially recorded at fair value on the date of the Merger.

The impaired loans acquired in the Merger as of October 31, 2013 were accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 310-30 Accounting for Certain Loans or Debt Securities Acquired in a Transfer (“ASC 310-30”) and were comprised of collateral dependent loans with deteriorated credit quality as follows:
 ASC 310-30 loans
Contractual principal balance at acquisition$24,176
Principal not expected to be collected (non-accretable discount)(10,927)
Expected cash flows at acquisition13,249
Interest component of expected cash flows (accretable discount)
Fair value of acquired loans$13,249

The core deposit intangible asset recognized is being amortized over its estimated useful life of approximately 10 years utilizing the accelerated method. Other intangibles consist of below market rents which are amortized over the remaining life of each lease using the straight-line method.

Goodwill is not amortized for book purposes; however, it is reviewed at least annually for impairment and is not deductible for tax purposes.
The fair value of premises and equipment and other real estate owned was estimated using appraisals of like kind properties and assets. Premises, equipment and leasehold improvements will be amortized or depreciated over their estimated useful lives ranging from one to five years for equipment or over the life of the lease for leasehold improvements. Other real estate owned is not amortized and is carried at estimated fair value determined by the appraised value less costs to sell.
The fair value of retail demand and interest bearing deposit accounts was assumed to approximate the carrying value as these accounts have no stated maturity and are payable on demand. The fair value of time deposits was estimated by discounting the contractual future cash flows using market rates offered for time deposits of similar remaining maturities. The fair value of borrowed funds was estimated by discounting the future cash flows using market rates for similar borrowings.
Direct acquisition and integration costs of the Merger were expensed as incurred and totaled $9,455 and $2,772, for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. These items were recorded as Merger-related expenses in the income statement. Other direct integration costs of the Merger for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014, totaled $26,591 and included a charge for asset write-downs, banking systems conversion, employee retention and severance compensation. These items were recorded in non-interest expense in the income statement.
The following table presents selected unaudited pro forma financial information reflecting the Merger assuming it was completed as of October 1, 2012. The unaudited pro forma financial information is presented for illustrative purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of the financial results of the combined companies had the Merger actually been completed at the beginning of the periods presented, nor does it indicate future results for any other interim or full fiscal year period. Pro forma basic and diluted earnings per common share were calculated using the Company’s actual weighted average shares outstanding for the periods presented, plus the incremental shares issued, assuming the Merger occurred at the beginning of the periods presented. The unaudited pro forma information is based on the actual financial statements of the Company for the periods presented, and on the actual financial statements of Legacy Sterling for the

79

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

2012 period presented and in 2013 until the date of the Merger, at which time Legacy Sterling’s results of operations were included in the Company’s financial statements.
The unaudited pro forma information set forth below for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, reflects adjustments related to (a) purchase accounting fair value adjustments; (b) amortization of core deposit and other intangibles; and (c) adjustments to interest income and expense due to amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. Direct Merger-related expenses and charges incurred in fiscal years ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 to write-down assets and accrue for retention and severance compensation are assumed to have occurred prior to October 1, 2012. Furthermore, the unaudited pro forma information does not reflect management’s estimate of any revenue enhancement opportunities or anticipated potential cost savings.
 Pro forma for the
 fiscal year ended September 30,
 2014 2013
Net interest income$198,776
 $180,030
Non-interest income54,396
 65,749
Non-interest expense187,306
 189,136
Net income44,460
 39,190
    
Pro forma earnings per share:   
  Basic$0.53
 $0.47
  Diluted0.53
 0.47
On August 10, 2012, the Company acquired 100% of the outstanding common shares of Gotham Bank of New York ("Gotham"(“Gotham”)in exchange for $40,510$40,510 in cash. Under the terms of the acquisition, common shareholders received cash equal to 125% of adjusted tangible net worth. The acquisition of Gotham providesprovided a strategic expansion into the metropolitan New York City market, enabling the Company to grow middleits small-to-middle market commercial business. Gotham delivered a core asset and deposit base, a long-term client base,relationships, an advantageous location in midtown Manhattan and an initial client relationshipcommercial banking team. Gotham'sGotham’s results of operations wereare included in the Company'sCompany’s results beginning August 10, 2012. Acquisition-related costs of $5,925 are includedfor all periods presented in non-interest expense in the Company's income statement for the year ended September 30, 2012.these financial statements.

The following table summarizes the consideration paid for Gotham and the amounts of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed recognized at the acquisition date:

August 10, 2012
Cash and due from banks$167,328
Securities, available for sale54,994
Total loans, net205,453
Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") stock1,045
Accrued interest receivable417
Premises and equipment, net490
Other assets1,663
Total Assets acquired$431,390
  
Deposits368,902
FHLB and other borrowings30,784
Other liabilities1,677
Total liabilities acquired$401,363
  
Total identifiable net assets30,027
  
Core deposit intangible4,818
Goodwill5,665
  
Cash paid$40,510

The following table presents proforma information as if the acquisition had occurred at October 1, 2010. The proforma information includes adjustments for interest income on loans and securities acquired, amortization of intangibles arising from the transaction, interest expense on deposits acquired and the related income tax effects. The proforma financial information is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that would have occurred had the transactions been effected on the assumed dates.

7480

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

(3) Securities

A summary of amortized cost and estimated fair value of our securities is presented below:    

 2012 2011
Net interest income$103,999
 $102,447
Net income22,914
 16,068
Basic earnings per share$0.60
 $0.37
Diluted earnings per share$0.60
 $0.37
    
 September 30, 2014 September 30, 2013
 
Amortized
cost
 
Gross
unrealized
gains
 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
Amortized
cost
 
Gross
unrealized
gains
 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
Available for Sale               
Residential MBS:               
Agency-backed$477,003
 $2,257
 $(1,555) $477,705
 $284,837
 $1,849
 $(4,157) $282,529
CMO/Other MBS115,395
 242
 (1,492) 114,145
 169,336
 356
 (3,038) 166,654
Total residential MBS592,398
 2,499
 (3,047) 591,850
 454,173
 2,205
 (7,195) 449,183
Other securities:               
Federal agencies158,114
 3
 (5,303) 152,814
 273,637
 
 (12,090) 261,547
Corporate195,547
 149
 (2,857) 192,839
 118,575
 153
 (3,795) 114,933
State and municipal131,715
 3,439
 (256) 134,898
 127,324
 3,447
 (2,041) 128,730
Trust preferred37,684
 766
 (38) 38,412
 
 
 
 
Total other securities523,060
 4,357
 (8,454) 518,963
 519,536
 3,600
 (17,926) 505,210
Total available for sale$1,115,458
 $6,856
 $(11,501) $1,110,813
 $973,709
 $5,805
 $(25,121) $954,393
Summary of Acquisition Transactions. Below is the summary of the acquisition transactions for Warwick Community Bancorp (2005) “WSB”, Ellenville National Bank (2004) “ENB”, National Bank of Florida (2002) “NBF”, one purchase in 2005 of a branch office of HSBC Bank USA, National Association (“HSBC”), Hudson Valley Investment Advisors (“HVIA”) and Gotham Bank of New York (2012) "Gotham".

 HVIA HSBC WSB ENB NBF Gotham Total
At Acquisition Date             
Number of shares issued208,331
 
 6,257,896
 3,969,676
 
 
 10,435,903
Loans acquired$
 $2,045
 $284,522
 $213,730
 $23,112
 $207,513
 $730,922
Deposits assumed
 23,319
 475,150
 327,284
 88,182
 368,545
 1,282,480
Cash paid/(received)2,500
 (18,938) 72,601
 36,773
 28,100
 40,510
 161,546
Goodwill2,531
 
 91,576
 51,794
 13,063
 5,665
 164,629
Core deposit/other intangibles2,830
 1,690
 10,395
 6,624
 1,787
 4,818
 28,144
At September 30, 2012             
Goodwill$
 $
 $92,145
 $52,101
 $13,336
 $5,665
 $163,247
Accumulated core deposit/other amortization2,830
 1,690
 10,098
 6,624
 1,787
 63
 23,092
Net core deposit/other intangible
 
 297
 
 
 4,755
 5,052
Future Amortization of Core Deposit and Other Intangible Assets. The following table sets forth the future amortization of core deposit and other intangible assets, including naming rights of $2,112 at September 30, 2012:
Amortization ScheduleSeptember 30,
2012
 September 30,
2011
Less than one year$853
 $1,183
One to two years960
 821
Two to three years814
 524
Three to four years751
 524
Four to five years714
 430
Beyond five years3,072
 1,147
Total$7,164
 $4,629
 September 30, 2014 September 30, 2013
 
Amortized
cost
 
Gross
unrealized gains
 
Gross
unrealized losses
 
Fair
value
 
Amortized
cost
 
Gross
unrealized gains
 
Gross
unrealized losses
 
Fair
value
Held to Maturity               
Residential MBS:               
Agency-backed$142,329
 $1,360
 $(103) 143,586
 130,371
 716
 (108) 130,979
CMO/Other MBS62,690
 9
 (1,204) 61,495
 25,776
 33
 (315) 25,494
Total residential MBS205,019
 1,369
 (1,307) 205,081
 156,147
 749
 (423) 156,473
Other securities:               
Federal agencies136,413
 2,634
 (962) 138,085
 77,341
 
 (3,458) 73,883
State and municipal232,643
 6,814
 (123) 239,334
 19,011
 556
 (546) 19,021
Other5,000
 338
 
 5,338
 1,500
 19
 
 1,519
Total other securities374,056
 9,786
 (1,085) 382,757
 97,852
 575
 (4,004) 94,423
Total held to maturity$579,075
 $11,155
 $(2,392) $587,838
 $253,999
 $1,324
 $(4,427) $250,896




In accordance with ASC Subtopic 320-10-25-6, in a significant business combination a company may transfer held to maturity securities to available for sale securities to maintain the company’s existing interest rate risk position or credit risk policy. Based on management’s review of the combined investment securities portfolio and implications for asset and liability management, investment securities totaling $165,230 were transferred from held to maturity to available for sale in connection with the Merger. Investment securities that were transferred included residential mortgage-backed securities, federal agency securities and state and municipal securities and was based mainly on the premium amortization and extension risk inherent in these securities. Concurrent with this repositioning, a total of $221,904 of investment securities were also transferred from available for sale to held to maturity. Substantially all of the securities transferred from available for sale to held to maturity have a maturity date in 2020 or beyond. At the date of transfer, these securities were in an unrealized loss position of $9,657, which will be accreted into interest income using the level yield method over the life of the securities, which is estimated to be approximately 5.3 year. At September 30, 2014 the remaining unrealized loss was $8,947. The

7581

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

unrealized loss amount is included in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) on an after-tax basis. Management believes the transfers of investment securities discussed above maintain the Company’s interest rate risk position and credit risk profile on a combined basis post-Merger.


(3) Securities Available for Sale
The following is a summary of securities available for sale:
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
September 30, 2012       
Mortgage-backed securities-residential       
Fannie Mae$155,601
 $5,806
 $
 $161,407
Freddie Mac81,509
 3,751
 
 85,260
Ginnie Mae4,488
 290
 
 4,778
CMO/Other MBS191,867
 1,787
 (590) 193,064
 433,465
 11,634
 (590) 444,509
Investment securities       
Federal agencies404,820
 4,013
 (10) 408,823
State and municipal securities146,136
 10,349
 (4) 156,481
Equities1,087
 
 (28) 1,059
 552,043
 14,362
 (42) 566,363
Total available for sale$985,508
 $25,996
 $(632) $1,010,872
September 30, 2011       
Mortgage-backed securities-residential       
Fannie Mae$136,699
 $3,292
 $
 $139,991
Freddie Mac98,511
 2,205
 (41) 100,675
Ginnie Mae4,973
 207
 
 5,180
CMO/Other MBS81,170
 1,764
 (522) 82,412
 321,353
 7,468
 (563) 328,258
Investment securities       
Federal agencies199,741
 4,986
 (79) 204,648
Corporate bonds16,984
 257
 (179) 17,062
State and municipal securities177,666
 11,018
 
 188,684
Equities1,192
 
 
 1,192
 395,583
 16,261
 (258) 411,586
Total available for sale$716,936
 $23,729
 $(821) $739,844
The following is a summary of the amortized cost and estimated fair value of investment securities available for sale (other than equity securities),at September 30, 2014 are presented below by remaining period to contractual maturity. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain issuers may have the right to call or prepay their obligations.
Residential mortgage-backed securities are shown separately since they are not due at a single maturity date.
 September 30, 2012
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair
Value
Remaining period to contractual maturity   
Less than one year$2,367
 $2,389
One to five years127,240
 130,510
Five to ten years383,867
 392,094
Greater than ten years37,482
 40,311
Total investment securities550,956
 565,304
Mortgage-backed securities-residential433,465
 444,509
Equity securities1,087
 1,059
Total available for sale securities$985,508
 $1,010,872
 September 30, 2014
 Available for sale Held to maturity
 
Amortized
cost
 
Fair
value
 
Amortized
cost
 
Fair
value
Other securities remaining period to contractual maturity:       
One year or less$2,100
 $2,112
 $8,847
 $8,897
One to five years141,508
 141,748
 9,138
 9,624
Five to ten years334,295
 328,902
 189,494
 192,109
Greater than ten years45,157
 46,201
 166,577
 172,127
Total other securities523,060
 518,963
 374,056
 382,757
Residential MBS592,398
 591,850
 205,019
 205,081
Total securities$1,115,458
 $1,110,813
 $579,075
 $587,838
Sales of securities for the periods indicated below were as follows:
 For the fiscal year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Available for sale:     
Proceeds from sales$529,107
 $339,123
 $344,431
Gross realized gains1,964
 7,709
 10,468
Gross realized losses(1,323) (377) 
Income tax expense on realized net gains172
 2,282
 2,475
Held to maturity: (1)
     
Proceeds from sales$
 $1,187
 $
Gross realized gains
 59
 
Income tax expense on realized gains
 18
 

(1) During the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, the Company sold held to maturity securities after the Company had already collected at least 85% of the principal balance outstanding at acquisition.


7682

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale during the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010 totaled $344,431, $540,145 and $443,389 respectively. These sales resulted in gross realized gains of $10,468, $10,000, and $8,518 for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010 respectively, and gross realized losses of $16, $7 and $361, in fiscal years 2012, 2011, and 2010 respectively. The Company’s accumulated other income included in stockholders equity at September 30, 2012 and 2011 consist of net unrealized gain, on available for sale securities of $15,066 and $13,603, respectively, net of tax liabilities of $10,298 and $9,302 respectively.
Securities, including held to maturity securities, with carrying amounts of $245,989 and $206,829 were pledged as collateral for borrowings at September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Securities with carrying amounts of $506,079 and $438,081 were pledged as collateral for municipal deposits and other purposes at September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Securities Available for Sale with Unrealized Losses.The following table summarizes those securities available for sale with unrealized losses, segregated by the length of time in a continuous unrealized loss position:
 Continuous Unrealized Loss Position    
 Less Than 12 Months 12 Months or Longer Total
As of September 30, 2012
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
CMO/Other MBS64,065
 (590) 
 
 64,065
 (590)
Total mortgage-backed securities — residential64,065
 (590) 
 
 64,065
 (590)
U.S. Government and agency securities4,993
 (10) 
 
 4,993
 (10)
State and municipal securities716
 (4) 
 $
 716
 (4)
Equities
 
 809
 $(28) 809
 (28)
Total$69,774
 $(604) $809
 $(28) $70,583
 $(632)
 Continuous unrealized loss position    
 Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
 
Fair
value
 
Unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
Unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
Unrealized
losses
Available for sale           
September 30, 2014           
Residential MBS:           
Agency-backed$137,693
 $(516) $41,516
 $(1,039) $179,209
 $(1,555)
CMO/other MBS62,507
 (446) 29,499
 (1,046) 92,006
 (1,492)
Total residential MBS200,200
 (962) 71,015
 (2,085) 271,215
 (3,047)
Other securities:           
Federal agencies6,153
 (144) 146,416
 (5,159) 152,569
 (5,303)
Corporate97,833
 (1,348) 66,440
 (1,509) 164,273
 (2,857)
State and municipal8,170
 (58) 12,809
 (198) 20,979
 (256)
Trust preferred3,907
 (38) 
 
 3,907
 (38)
Total other securities116,063
 (1,588) 225,665
 (6,866) 341,728
 (8,454)
Total$316,263
 $(2,550) $296,680
 $(8,951) $612,943
 $(11,501)
September 30, 2013           
Residential MBS:           
Agency-backed$137,265
 $(4,157) $
 $
 $137,265
 $(4,157)
CMO/Other MBS122,324
 (2,742) 7,820
 (296) 130,144
 (3,038)
Total residential MBS259,589
 (6,899) 7,820
 (296) 267,409
 (7,195)
Other securities:           
Federal agencies261,547
 (12,090) 
 
 261,547
 (12,090)
State and municipal43,585
 (2,033) 112
 (8) 43,697
 (2,041)
Corporate95,013
 (3,795) 
 
 95,013
 (3,795)
Total other securities400,145
 (17,918) 112
 (8) 400,257
 (17,926)
Total$659,734
 $(24,817) $7,932
 $(304) $667,666
 $(25,121)

 Continuous Unrealized Loss Position    
 Less Than 12 Months 12 Months or Longer Total
As of September 30, 2011
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
Freddie Mac$10,262
 $(41) $
 $
 $10,262
 $(41)
CMO/Other MBS3,037
 (257) 1,813
 (265) 4,850
 (522)
Total mortgage-backed securities — residential13,299
 (298) 1,813
 (265) 15,112
 (563)
U.S. Government and agency securities9,914
 (79) 
 
 9,914
 (79)
Corporate bonds1,886
 (179) 
 
 1,886
 (179)
Total$25,099
 $(556) $1,813
 $(265) $26,912
 $(821)
The Company, as of June 30, 2009 adopted the provisions under FASB ASC Topic 320 — Investments- Debt and Equity Securities which requires a forecast of recovery of cost basis through cash flow collection on all debt securities with a fair value less than its amortized cost less any current period credit loss with an assertion on the lack of intent to sell (or requirement to sell prior to recovery of cost basis). Based on a review of each of the securities in the investment portfolio in accordance with FASB ASC 320 at September 30, 2012, the Company concluded that it expects to recover the amortized cost basis of its investments on all but two private label CMO securities for which incurred impairment charges recognized totaled $47 and $75, for September 30, 2012 and September 30, 2011, respectively. The total cumulative impairment charges for these private label CMO securities was $122. There were $419 of unrealized gains recorded in other comprehensive income for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2012 for the two CMOs that were determined other than temporarily impaired. At September 30, 2011, there was one equity security that had an impairment charge of $203. As of September 30, 2012, the Company does not intend to sell nor is it more than likely than not that it would be required to sell any of its securities with unrealized losses prior to recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current-period applicable credit losses.

7783

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following table summarizes securities held to maturity with unrealized losses, related to privately issued residential CMOs were recognizedsegregated by the length of time in light of deterioration of housing values in the residential real estate market and a rise in delinquencies and charge-offs of underlying mortgage loans collateralizing those securities. The Company uses a discounted cash flow analysis to provide an estimate of an other than temporary impairment loss. Inputs to the discount model included known defaults and interest deferrals, projected additional default rates, projected additional deferrals of interest, over collateralization tests, interest coverage tests and other factors. Expected default and deferral rates were weighted toward the near future to reflect the current adverse economic environment affecting the banking industry. The discount rate was based upon the yield expected from the related securities.continuous unrealized loss position:
 Continuous unrealized loss position    
 Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
 
Fair
value
 
Unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
Unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
Unrealized
losses
Held to maturity           
September 30, 2014           
Residential MBS:           
   Agency-backed$20,616
 $(103) $
 $
 $20,616
 $(103)
   CMO/Other MBS14,928
 (368) 42,646
 (836) 57,574
 (1,204)
Total residential MBS35,544
 (471) 42,646
 (836) 78,190
 (1,307)
Other securities:           
Federal agencies23,756
 (62) 24,101
 (900) 47,857
 (962)
State and municipal13,943
 (100) 1,479
 (23) 15,422
 (123)
Total other securities37,699
 (162) 25,580
 (923) 63,279
 (1,085)
Total$73,243
 $(633) $68,226
 $(1,759) $141,469
 $(2,392)
September 30, 2013           
Residential MBS:           
Agency-backed$10,963
 $(86) $
 $
 $10,963
 $(86)
CMO/Other MBS31,412
 (337) 
 
 31,412
 (337)
Total residential MBS42,375
 (423) 
 
 42,375
 (423)
Other securities:           
Federal agencies73,883
 (3,458) 
 
 73,883
 (3,458)
State and municipal9,530
 (546) 
 
 9,530
 (546)
Total other securities83,413
 (4,004) 
 
 83,413
 (4,004)
Total$125,788
 $(4,427) $
 $
 $125,788
 $(4,427)

Substantially all of the unrealized losses at September 30, 20122014 relate to investment grade debt securities and are attributable to changes in market interest rates subsequent to purchase. There were no securities with unrealized losses that were individually significant dollar amounts at At September 30, 2012. A2014, a total of 1699 available for sale securities were in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than 12 months and 1 security118 securities were in an unrealized loss position for 12 months or longer. For securities with fixed maturities, there are no securities past due or securities for which the Company currently believes it is not probable that it will collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the investment.
Within
Declines in the collateralized mortgage-backed securities (CMO’s) categoryfair value of the available for sale portfolio thereand held to maturity securities below their cost that are four individual private label CMO’s that have an amortized cost of $4,665 and a fair value (carrying value) of $4,630 as of September 30, 2012. Two of the four securities are considereddeemed to be impaired as noted above and are below investment grade. The impaired private label CMO securities have an amortized cost of $4,240 and a fair value of $4,197 at September 30, 2012. The remaining two securities in this category are performing as of September 30, 2012 and are expected to perform based on current information.
In determining whether there existed other than temporary are reflected in earnings as realized losses to the extent the impairment on these securitiesis related to credit losses. The amount of the impairment related to other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income. In estimating other-than-temporary impairment losses (“OTTI”), management considers, among other things, (i) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (ii) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, and (iii) the intent and ability of the Company evaluatedto retain the present valueinvestment for a period of cash flows expectedtime sufficient to be collected based on collateral specific assumptions, including credit risk and liquidity risk, and determined that no losses are expected. The Company will continue to evaluate its portfolioallow for an anticipated recovery in this manner on a quarterly basis.cost.

7884

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Securities pledged for borrowings at FHLB and other institutions, and securities pledged for municipal deposits and other purposes were as follows:
 September 30,
 2014 2013
Available for sale securities pledged for borrowings, at fair value$268,316
 $199,642
Available for sale securities pledged for municipal deposits, at fair value532,770
 580,756
Available for sale securities pledged for customer back-to-back swaps, at fair value1,934
 4,645
Held to maturity securities pledged for borrowings, at amortized cost58,509
 55,497
Held to maturity securities pledged for municipal deposits, at amortized cost430,611
 167,926
Total securities pledged$1,292,140
 $1,008,466



(4) Securities Held to MaturityLoans

The following is a summarycomposition of securitiesthe Company’s loan portfolio, excluding loans held to maturity:
for sale, was the following:
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
September 30, 2012       
Mortgage-backed securities-residential       
Fannie Mae$28,637
 $1,212
 $
 $29,849
Freddie Mac42,706
 1,347
 
 44,053
CMO/Other MBS27,921
 226
 (28) 28,119
 99,264
 2,785
 (28) 102,021
Investment securities       
Federal agencies22,236
 106
 
 22,342
State and municipal securities19,376
 1,059
 
 20,435
Other1,500
 26
 
 1,526
 43,112
 1,191
 
 44,303
Total held to maturity$142,376
 $3,976
 $(28) $146,324
September 30, 2011       
Mortgage-backed securities-residential       
Fannie Mae$1,298
 $63
 $
 $1,361
Freddie Mac32,858
 103
 (120) 32,841
CMO/Other MBS25,828
 155
 
 25,983
 59,984
 321
 (120) 60,185
Investment securities       
Federal agencies29,973
 25
 (141) 29,857
State and municipal securities18,583
 1,108
 
 19,691
Other1,500
 39
 
 1,539
 50,056
 1,172
 (141) 51,087
Total held to maturity$110,040
 $1,493
 $(261) $111,272
 September 30,
 2014 2013
Commercial:   
       Commercial & industrial$1,164,537
 $439,787
Payroll finance145,474
 
Warehouse lending192,003
 
Factored receivables181,433
 
Equipment financing393,027
 
Total commercial2,076,474
 439,787
Commercial mortgage:   
       Commercial real estate1,449,052
 969,490
Multi-family368,524
 307,547
       Acquisition, development & construction92,149
 102,494
Total commercial mortgage1,909,725
 1,379,531
Total commercial and commercial mortgage3,986,199
 1,819,318
Residential mortgage570,431
 400,009
Consumer:   
Home equity lines of credit159,944
 156,995
Other consumer loans43,864
 36,576
Total consumer203,808
 193,571
Total loans4,760,438
 2,412,898
Allowance for loan losses(40,612) (28,877)
Total loans, net$4,719,826
 $2,384,021
The following is a summary of the amortized cost and fair value of investment securities held to maturity, by remaining period to contractual maturity. Actual maturities may differ because certain issuers have the right to call or repay their obligations.
 September 30, 2012
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair
Value
Remaining period to contractual maturity   
Less than one year$10,117
 $10,151
One to five years3,180
 3,336
Five to ten years25,611
 26,148
Greater than ten years4,204
 4,668
Total investment securities43,112
 44,303
Mortgage-backed securities-residential99,264
 102,021
Total held to maturity securities$142,376
 $146,324

Proceeds from salesTotal loans include net deferred loan origination costs of securities held to maturity during the years ended$1,261 at September 30, 2012, 20112014 and 2010$1,201 totaled $0, $357, and $0 respectively. These sales resulted in gross realized gains of $0, $18, and $0 for the years ended at September 30, 20122013., 2011,

Loans acquired from Legacy Sterling were a total of $1,698,108, net of purchase accounting adjustments and 2010 respectively,were comprised of $1,683,454 of loans that were not considered impaired at the acquisition date and no gross realized losses$13,249 of loans that were determined to be impaired at the time of acquisition. The impaired loans were accounted for in fiscal years 2012, 2011, and 2010. These securities can beaccordance with ASC 310-30. At September 30, 2014, the net recorded amount of loans accounted for under ASC 310-30 was $3,763.

7985

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Loans acquired in the Merger that were determined to be purchased credit impaired were all considered collateral dependent loans. Therefore, estimated fair value calculations and projected cash flows included only return of principal and no interest income. There was no accretable yield associated with these loans during the twelve months ended September 30, 2014.
At September 30, 2014, the Company pledged loans totaling $1,246,315 to the FHLB as collateral for certain borrowing arrangements. See Note 8. “Borrowings and Senior Notes”.


considered maturities per FASB ASC Topic 320, Investments — DebtThe following tables set forth the amounts and Equitysecurities, as the salestatus of the securities occurred after at least 85% of the principal outstanding had been collected since acquisition.
The following table summarizes those securities held to maturity with unrealized losses, segregated by the length of time in a continuous unrealized loss position:
 Continuous Unrealized Loss Position    
 Less Than 12 Months 12 Months or Longer Total
As of September 30, 2012
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
CMO other MBS13,189
 (28) 
 
 13,189
 (28)
Total$13,189
 $(28) $
 $
 $13,189
 $(28)
 Continuous Unrealized Loss Position    
 Less Than 12 Months 12 Months or Longer Total
As of September 30, 2011
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
Freddie Mac MBS-residential25,770
 (120) 
 
 25,770
 (120)
Federal Agencies24,831
 (141) 
 
 24,831
 (141)
Total$50,601
 $(261) $
 $
 $50,601
 $(261)
All of the unrealized losses on held to maturity securitiesCompany’s loans and TDRs at September 30, 20122014 are attributable to changes in market interest rates and credit risk spreads subsequent to purchase. There were no securities with unrealized losses that were individually significant dollar amounts at September 30, 20122013:. There were 0 held-to-maturity securities in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than 12 months, and no securities for 12 months or longer. For securities with fixed maturities, there are no securities past due or securities for which the Company currently believes it is not probable that it will collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the investment. Because the Company has the ability and intent to hold securities with unrealized losses until maturity, the Company did not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired at September 30, 2012.
(5) Loans
The components of the loan portfolio, excluding loans held for sale, were as follows:
 September 30,
 2012 2011

   
Real estate-residential mortgage loans$350,022
 $389,765

   
Commercial real estate loans1,072,504
 703,356
Commercial business loans343,307
 209,923
Acquisition, development & construction loans144,061
 175,931
  Total commercial loans1,559,872
 1,089,210
Consumer loans:   
Home equity lines of credit165,200
 174,521
Homeowner loans34,999
 40,969
Other consumer loans, including overdrafts9,379
 9,334
 209,578
 224,824
Total loans2,119,472
 1,703,799
Allowance for loan losses(28,282) (27,917)
Total loans, net$2,091,190
 $1,675,882
 September 30, 2014
 Current 
30-59
days
past due
 
60-89
days
past due
 
90+
days
past due
 
Non-
accrual
 Total
Commercial & industrial$1,150,854
 $2,316
 $7,043
 $
 $4,324
 $1,164,537
Payroll finance145,029
 99
 
 346
 
 145,474
Warehouse lending192,003
 
 
 
 
 192,003
Factored receivables181,063
 
 
 
 370
 181,433
Equipment financing391,914
 689
 162
 
 262
 393,027
Commercial real estate1,433,805
 93
 4,188
 521
 10,445
 1,449,052
Multi-family368,393
 
 
 
 131
 368,524
Acquisition, development & construction79,732
 
 56
 
 12,361
 92,149
Residential mortgage547,912
 4,023
 2,036
 534
 15,926
 570,431
Consumer193,491
 3,087
 1,487
 
 5,743
 203,808
Total loans$4,684,196
 $10,307
 $14,972
 $1,401
 $49,562
 $4,760,438
Total TDRs included above$17,138
 $346
 $169
 $
 $11,944
 $29,597
Non-performing loans:           
Loans 90+ days past due and still accruing        $1,401
  
Non-accrual loans        49,562
  
Total non-performing loans        $50,963
  
Total loans include net deferred loan origination (fees)/costs of $(310) and $308 at September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
 September 30, 2013
 Current 
30-59
days
past due
 
60-89
days
past due
 
90+
days
past due
 
Non-
accrual
 Total
Commercial & industrial$438,818
 $178
 $2
 $289
 $500
 439,787
Commercial real estate1,263,933
 1,978
 2,357
 1,574
 7,195
 1,277,037
Acquisition, development & construction96,306
 768
 
 
 5,420
 102,494
Residential mortgage390,072
 354
 267
 1,832
 7,484
 400,009
Consumer190,393
 566
 
 404
 2,208
 193,571
Total loans$2,379,522
 $3,844
 $2,626
 $4,099
 $22,807
 $2,412,898
Total TDRs included above$23,754
 $
 $
 $141
 $2,199
 $26,094
Non-performing loans:           
Loans 90+ days past due and still accruing        $4,099
  
Non-accrual loans        22,807
  
Total non-performing loans        $26,906
  



8086

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


A substantial portion of the Company’s loan portfolio is secured by residential and commercial real estate located in Rockland and Orange Counties of New York and contiguous areas such as Ulster, Sullivan, Putnam and Westchester Counties of New York, New York City, and Bergen County, New Jersey. The ability of the Company’s borrowers to make principal and interest payments is dependent upon, among other things, the level of overall economic activity and the real estate market conditions prevailing within the Company’s concentrated lending area. Commercial real estate and acquisition, development and construction loans are considered by management to be of somewhat greater credit risk than loans to fund the purchase of a primary residence due to the generally larger loan amounts and dependency on income production or sale of the real estate. Substantially all of these loans are collateralized by real estate located in the Company’s primary market area.
Activity in the allowance for loan losses andfor the recorded investments in loans by portfolio segment based on impairment method for fiscal years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are is summarized below:
 For the year ended September 30, 2012
 
Beginning
Allowance for
loan losses
 Charge-offs Recoveries 
Net
Charge-offs
 
Provision
for
losses
 
Ending
Allowance for
Loan Losses
Loans by segment:           
Real estate — residential mortgage$3,498
 $(2,551) $356
 $(2,195) $3,056
 $4,359
Real estate — commercial mortgage5,568
 (2,707) 528
 (2,179) 3,841
 7,230
Commercial business loans5,945
 (1,526) 1,116
 (410) (932) 4,603
Acquisition, development & construction9,895
 (4,124) 299
 (3,825) 2,456
 8,526
Consumer, including home equity3,011
 (1,901) 263
 (1,638) 2,191
 3,564
Total Loans$27,917
 $(12,809) $2,562
 $(10,247) $10,612
 $28,282
Net charge-offs to average loans outstanding          0.56%
 September 30, 2014
 
Beginning
balance
 Charge-offs Recoveries 
Net
charge-offs
 Provision Ending balance
Commercial & industrial$5,302
 $(2,901) $1,073
 $(1,828) $6,062
 $9,536
Payroll finance
 (758) 
 (758) 2,137
 1,379
Warehouse lending
 
 
 
 630
 630
Factored receivables
 (211) 9
 (202) 1,496
 1,294
Equipment financing
 (1,074) 194
 (880) 3,501
 2,621
Commercial real estate9,967
 (741) 161
 (580) 1,457
 10,844
Multi-family
 (418) 92
 (326) 2,193
 1,867
Acquisition, development & construction5,806
 (1,479) 
 (1,479) (2,207) 2,120
Residential mortgage4,474
 (963) 323
 (640) 2,003
 5,837
Consumer3,328
 (786) 114
 (672) 1,828
 4,484
Total loans$28,877
 $(9,331) $1,966
 $(7,365) $19,100
 $40,612
Annualized net charge-offs to average loans outstanding       0.24%

Activity in the allowance for loan losses and the recorded investments in loans by portfolio segment based on impairment method for September 30, 2011 are summarized below:
 For the year ended September 30, 2011
 
Beginning
Allowance for
loan losses
 Charge-offs Recoveries 
Net
Charge-offs
 
Provision
for
losses
 
Ending
Allowance for
Loan Losses
Loans by segment:           
Real estate — residential mortgage$2,641
 $(2,140) $15
 $(2,125) $2,982
 $3,498
Real estate — commercial mortgage5,915
 (1,802) 2
 (1,800) 1,453
 5,568
Commercial business loans8,970
 (5,400) 605
 (4,795) 1,770
 5,945
Acquisition, development & construction9,752
 (8,939) 10
 (8,929) 9,072
 9,895
Consumer, including home equity3,565
 (1,989) 128
 (1,861) 1,307
 3,011
Total Loans$30,843
 $(20,270) $760
 $(19,510) $16,584
 $27,917
Net charge-offs to average loans outstanding          1.17%
 September 30, 2013
 Beginning
balance
 Charge-offs Recoveries Net
charge-offs
 Provision Ending balance
Commercial & industrial$4,603
 $(1,354) $410
 $(944) $1,643
 $5,302
Commercial real estate7,230
 (3,725) 577
 (3,148) 5,885
 9,967
Acquisition, development & construction8,526
 (3,422) 182
 (3,240) 520
 5,806
Residential mortgage4,359
 (2,547) 101
 (2,446) 2,561
 4,474
Consumer3,564
 (2,009) 232
 (1,777) 1,541
 3,328
Total loans$28,282
 $(13,057) $1,502
 $(11,555) $12,150
 $28,877
Annualized net charge-offs to average loans outstanding       0.52%


 September 30, 2012
 Beginning
balance
 Charge-offs Recoveries Net
charge-offs
 Provision Ending balance
Commercial & industrial$5,945
 $(1,526) $1,116
 $(410) $(932) $4,603
Commercial real estate5,568
 (2,707) 528
 (2,179) 3,841
 7,230
Acquisition, development & construction9,895
 (4,124) 299
 (3,825) 2,456
 8,526
Residential mortgage3,498
 (2,551) 356
 (2,195) 3,056
 4,359
Consumer3,011
 (1,901) 263
 (1,638) 2,191
 3,564
Total loans$27,917
 $(12,809) $2,562
 $(10,247) $10,612
 $28,282
            
Annualized net charge-offs to average loans outstanding       0.56%


Management considers a loan to be impaired when, based on current information and events, it is determined that the Company will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the loan contract, including scheduled interest payments. Determination of impairment is treated the same across all classes of loans on a loan-by-loan basis, except residential mortgage loans and home equity lines of credit with an outstanding balance of $500 or less, which are evaluated for impairment on a homogeneous pool basis. When management identifies a loan as impaired, the impairment is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows, discounted at the

8187

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)



loan’s effective interest rate, except when the sole remaining source of repayment of the loan is the operation or liquidation of the collateral. In these cases, management uses the current fair value of the collateral, less selling costs when foreclosure is probable, instead of discounted cash flows. If management determines that the value of the impaired loan is less than the recorded investment in the loan (net of previous charge-offs, deferred loan fees or costs and unamortized premium or discount), impairment is generally recognized through a charge-off to the allowance for loan losses. 

ActivityWhen the ultimate collectibility of the total principal of an impaired loan is in doubt and the loan is on non-accrual status, all payments are applied to principal, under the cost recovery method. When the ultimate collectibility of the total principal of an impaired loan is not in doubt and the loan is on non-accrual status, contractual interest is credited to interest income when received, under the cash basis method.

The following table sets forth loans evaluated for impairment by segment and the allowance evaluated by segment at September 30, 2014:
 Loans evaluated by segment Allowance evaluated by segment
 
Individually
evaluated for
impairment
 
Collectively
evaluated for
impairment
 Purchased credit impaired loans 
Total
 loans
 
Individually
evaluated for
impairment
 
Collectively
evaluated for
impairment
 Total allowance for loan losses
Commercial & industrial$4,177
 $1,158,837
 $1,523
 $1,164,537
 $
 $9,536
 $9,536
Payroll finance
 145,474
 
 145,474
 
 1,379
 1,379
Warehouse lending
 192,003
 
 192,003
 
 630
 630
Factored receivables
 181,433
 
 181,433
 
 1,294
 1,294
Equipment financing
 393,027
 
 393,027
 
 2,621
 2,621
Commercial real estate13,750
 1,435,163
 139
 1,449,052
 
 10,844
 10,844
Multi-family
 368,524
 
 368,524
 
 1,867
 1,867
Acquisition, development & construction17,766
 74,383
 
 92,149
 
 2,120
 2,120
Residential mortgage515
 567,815
 2,101
 570,431
 
 5,837
 5,837
Consumer
 203,808
 
 203,808
 
 4,484
 4,484
Total loans$36,208
 $4,720,467
 $3,763
 $4,760,438
 $
 $40,612
 $40,612

There was no amount included in the allowance for loan losses and the recorded investments inassociated with purchased credit impaired loans by portfolio segment based on impairment method for at September 30, 2010 are summarized below:2014, as there was no further deterioration in the credit quality of these loans since the Merger date.

 For the year ended September 30, 2010
 
Beginning
Allowance for
loan losses
 Charge-offs Recoveries 
Net
Charge-offs
 
Provision
for
losses
 
Ending
Allowance for
Loan Losses
Loans by segment:           
Real estate — residential mortgage$3,106
 $(749) $3
 $(746) $281
 $2,641
Real estate — commercial mortgage7,695
 (987) 23
 (964) (816) 5,915
Commercial business loans8,928
 (6,578) 670
 (5,908) 5,950
 8,970
Acquisition, development & construction7,680
 (848) 261
 (587) 2,659
 9,752
Consumer, including home equity2,641
 (1,168) 166
 (1,002) 1,926
 3,565
Total Loans$30,050
 $(10,330) $1,123
 $(9,207) $10,000
 $30,843
Net charge-offs to average loans outstanding          0.56%

The following table sets forth the loans evaluated for impairment by segment and the allowance evaluated by segment at September 30, 2012 :

2013:
 Gotham acquired loans 
Individually
evaluated for
impairment
 
Collectively
evaluated for
impairment
 
Total ending
loans balance
Loans by segment:       
Real estate — residential mortgage$640
 $12,739
 $336,643
 $350,022
Real estate — commercial mortgage103,801
 13,017
 955,686
 1,072,504
Commercial business loans101,065
 357
 241,885
 343,307
Acquisition, development & construction
 24,880
 119,181
 144,061
Consumer, including home equity258
 2,299
 207,021
 209,578
Total Loans$205,764
 $53,292
 $1,860,416
 $2,119,472
 Loans evaluated by segment Allowance evaluated by segment
 
Individually
evaluated for
impairment
 
Collectively
evaluated for
impairment
 
Total
loans
 
Individually
evaluated for
impairment
 
Collectively
evaluated for
impairment
 Total allowance for loan losses
Commercial & industrial$2,631
 $437,156
 $439,787
 $249
 $5,053
 $5,302
Commercial real estate14,091
 1,262,946
 1,277,037
 803
 9,164
 9,967
Acquisition, development & construction19,582
 82,912
 102,494
 540
 5,266
 5,806
Residential mortgage515
 399,494
 400,009
 
 4,474
 4,474
Consumer2
 193,569
 193,571
 1
 3,327
 3,328
Total loans$36,821
 $2,376,077
 $2,412,898
 $1,593
 $27,284
 $28,877

The acquired Gotham loans are primarily collectively evaluated for impairment.

The following table sets forth the loans evaluated for impairment by segment at September 30, 2011
 
Individually
evaluated for
impairment
 
Collectively
evaluated for
impairment
 
Total ending
loans balance
Loans by segment:     
Real estate — residential mortgage$8,573
 $381,192
 $389,765
Real estate — commercial mortgage15,130
 $688,226
 703,356
Commercial business loans531
 $209,392
 209,923
Acquisition, development & construction28,223
 $147,708
 175,931
Consumer, including home equity2,504
 222,320
 224,824
Total Loans$54,961
 $1,648,838
 $1,703,799




8288

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following table sets forth the allowance evaluated for impairment by segment at September 30, 2012
 
Individually
evaluated for
impairment
 
Collectively evaluated for
impairment
 
Total
allowance
balance
Ending allowance by segment:     
Real estate — residential mortgage$871
 $3,488
 $4,359
Real estate — commercial mortgage1,036
 6,194
 7,230
Commercial business loans48
 4,555
 4,603
Acquisition, development & construction996
 7,530
 8,526
Consumer, including home equity263
 3,301
 3,564
Total allowance$3,214
 $25,068
 $28,282

The following table sets forth the allowance evaluated for impairment by segment at September 30, 2011
 
Individually
evaluated for
impairment
 
Collectively evaluated for
impairment
 
Total
allowance
balance
Ending allowance by segment:     
Real estate — residential mortgage$1,069
 $2,429
 $3,498
Real estate — commercial mortgage1,068
 4,500
 5,568
Commercial business loans
 5,945
 5,945
Acquisition, development & construction1,409
 8,486
 9,895
Consumer, including home equity260
 2,751
 3,011
Total allowance$3,806
 $24,111
 $27,917

A loan is impaired when it is probable that a creditor will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Impaired loans substantially consist of non-performing loans and accruing and performing troubled debt restructured loans. The recorded investment of an impaired loan includes the unpaid principal balance, negative escrow and any tax in arrears.

83

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following table presents loans individually evaluated for impairment by segment of loans as ofat September 30, 20122014: and September 30, 2013:
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
Recorded
Investment
 
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
Allocated
 
YTD
Average
Impaired
Loans
 
Interest
Income
Recognized
 
Cash-basis
Interest
Income
Recognized
With no related allowance recorded:           
Real estate — residential mortgage$6,193
 $5,413
 $
 $5,493
 $310
 $137
Real estate — commercial mortgage9,296
 7,837
 
 7,869
 520
 291
Acquisition, development and construction24,144
 20,597
 
 22,043
 636
 367
Commercial business loans262
 262
 
 467
 26
 26
Consumer loans, including home equity1,146
 1,122
 
 1,113
 28
 8
Subtotal41,041
 35,231
 
 36,985
 1,520
 829
With an allowance recorded:           
Real estate — residential mortgage8,485
 7,326
 871
 7,770
 180
 141
Real estate — commercial mortgage5,942
 5,180
 1,036
 5,970
 84
 84
Acquisition, development & construction7,159
 4,283
 996
 5,868
 76
 76
Commercial business loans95
 95
 48
 99
 18
 6
Consumer loans, including home equity1,400
 1,177
 263
 1,503
 
 
Subtotal23,081
 18,061
 3,214
 21,210
 358
 307
Total$64,122
 $53,292
 $3,214
 $58,195
 $1,878
 $1,136
 September 30, 2014 September 30, 2013
 
Unpaid
principal
balance
 
Recorded
investment
 Related allowance 
Unpaid
principal
balance
 
Recorded
investment
 Related allowance
With no related allowance recorded:           
Commercial & industrial$4,177
 $4,177
 $
 $2,175
 $2,131
 $
Commercial real estate13,886
 13,750
 
 12,451
 11,820
 
Acquisition, development & construction18,676
 17,766
 
 17,971
 17,945
 
Residential mortgage515
 515
 
 515
 515
 
Subtotal37,254
 36,208
 
 33,112
 32,411
 
With an allowance recorded:           
Commercial & industrial
 
 
 500
 500
 249
Commercial real estate
 
 
 3,150
 2,271
 803
Acquisition, development & construction
 
 
 2,753
 1,637
 540
   Consumer
 
 
 2
 2
 1
Subtotal
 
 
 6,405
 4,410
 1,593
Total$37,254
 $36,208
 $
 $39,517
 $36,821
 $1,593

During the quarter ended March 31, 2014, the Company modified its allowance for loan loss policy to generally require a charge-off of the difference between the book balance of a collateral dependent impaired loan and the net value of the collateral securing the loan.

The following table presents the average recorded investment and interest income recognized related to loans individually evaluated for impairment by segment for the fiscal year September 30, 2014 and 2013:
 September 30, 2014 September 30, 2013
 
YTD average
recorded
investment
 
Interest
income
recognized
 
Cash-basis
interest
income
recognized
 
YTD average
recorded
investment
 
Interest
income
recognized
 
Cash-basis
interest
income
recognized
With no related allowance recorded:           
Commercial & industrial$4,180
 $
 $
 $1,821
 $91
 $86
Commercial real estate14,016
 186
 180
 17,325
 286
 275
Acquisition, development & construction20,525
 239
 239
 12,827
 631
 587
Residential mortgage515
 
 
 309
 
 
Consumer
 
 
 61
 
 
Subtotal39,236
 425
 419
 32,343
 1,008
 948
With an allowance recorded:           
Commercial & industrial
 
 
 705
 
 
Commercial real estate
 
 
 6,646
 7
 7
Acquisition, development & construction
 
 
 1,104
 
 
Residential mortgage
 
 
 1,602
 14
 10
  Consumer
 
 
 228
 
 
Subtotal
 
 
 10,285
 21
 17
Total$39,236
 $425
 $419
 $42,628
 $1,029
 $965


8489

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

In the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, the Company recognized interest income of $1,878 including cash-basis interest income recognized of $1,136 on $58,195 of average impaired loans.

Troubled Debt Restructuring:

The following table presents loans individually evaluated for impairment by segmenttables set forth the amounts and past due status of loans as ofthe Company’s TDRs at September 30, 20112014: and 2013:
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
Recorded
Investment
 
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
Allocated
 
YTD
Average
Impaired
Loans
 
Interest
Income
Recognized
 
Cash-basis
Interest
Income
Recognized
With no related allowance recorded:           
Real estate — residential mortgage$2,437
 $2,577
 $
 $2,702
 $92
 $51
Real estate — commercial mortgage8,765
 8,873
 
 8,917
 497
 248
Acquisition, development & construction20,914
 21,316
 
 26,111
 1,892
 1,454
Commercial business loans531
 531
 
 862
 42
 42
Consumer loans, including home equity1,879
 1,885
 
 1,860
 61
 13
Subtotal34,526
 35,182
 
 40,452
 2,584
 1,808
With an allowance recorded:           
Real estate — residential mortgage5,836
 5,996
 1,069
 6,319
 159
 159
Real estate — commercial mortgage6,024
 6,257
 1,068
 6,505
 199
 144
Acquisition, development & construction6,900
 6,907
 1,409
 6,963
 114
 96
Consumer loans, including home equity619
 619
 260
 642
 33
 22
Subtotal19,379
 19,779
 3,806
 20,429
 505
 421
Total$53,905
 $54,961
 $3,806
 $60,881
 $3,089
 $2,229
 September 30, 2014
 Current loans 
30-59
days
past due
 
60-89
days
past due
 
90+
days
past due
 
Non-
accrual
 Total
Commercial & industrial$275
 $
 $
 $
 $1,618
 $1,893
Equipment financing435
 
 
 
 
 435
Commercial real estate4,838
 
 
 
 447
 5,285
Acquisition, development & construction5,732
 
 
 
 6,817
 12,549
Residential mortgage5,858
 346
 169
 
 2,841
 9,214
Consumer
 
 
 
 221
 221
Total$17,138
 $346
 $169
 $
 $11,944
 $29,597
Allowance for loan losses$409
 $
 $31
 $
 $451
 $891

 September 30, 2013
 Current loans 30-59
days
past due
 60-89
days
past due
 90+
days
past due
 Non-
accrual
 Total
Commercial & industrial$1,843
 $
 $
 $141
 $
 $1,984
Commercial real estate5,305
 
 
 
 
 5,305
Acquisition, development & construction14,190
 
 
 
 151
 14,341
Residential mortgage2,416
 
 
 
 1,792
 4,208
Consumer
 
 
 
 256
 256
Total loans$23,754
 $
 $
 $141
 $2,199
 $26,094
Allowance for loan losses$438
 $
 $
 $
 $439
 $877

The Company had outstanding commitments to lend additional amounts of $0 and $4,101 to customers with loans classified as TDRs as of September 30, 2014 and September 30, 2013, respectively.

The following table presents loans individually evaluated for impairmentby segment modified as ofTDRs that occurred during the twelve months ended September 30, 20102014: and 2013:

Interest income recognized during impairment1,975
Cash basis interest income recognized1,157
Average impaired loans27,032

 September 30, 2014 September 30, 2013
   Recorded investment   Recorded investment
 Number
Pre-
modification
 
Post-
modification
 Number
Pre-
modification
 
Post-
modification
Commercial & industrial
 $
 $
 5 $2,001
 $2,001
Commercial real estate
 
 
 2 2,682
 2,682
Acquisition, development & construction2
 1,060
 1,060
 7 5,772
 5,772
Residential mortgage
 
 
 6 1,436
 1,372
Consumer
 
 
 1 302
 302
Total restructured loans2
 $1,060
 $1,060
 21 $12,193
 $12,129
            


8590

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following tables set forthThere were 12 TDRs in the amounts and status of the Company’s loans and troubled debt restructures at fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, with a pre-modification balance of $9,160 and September 30, 2011:
 September 30, 2012
 
Current
Loans
 
30-59
Days
Past Due
 
60-89
Days
Past Due
 
90+
Days
Past Due
 
Non-
Accrual
 
Total
Loans
Loans by segment:           
Real estate — residential mortgage$337,356
 $855
 $497
 $2,263
 $9,051
 $350,022
Real estate — commercial mortgage1,060,176
 902
 973
 1,638
 8,815
 1,072,504
Commercial business loans342,726
 96
 141
 
 344
 343,307
Acquisition, development & construction loans121,590
 7,067
 
 
 15,404
 144,061
Consumer, including home equity loans205,463
 1,551
 265
 469
 1,830
 209,578
Total$2,067,311
 $10,471
 $1,876
 $4,370
 $35,444
 $2,119,472
Total troubled debt restructures included above$13,543
 $270
 $264
 $
 $10,870
 $24,947
Non performing loans:           
Loans 90+ and still accruing        $4,370
  
Non-accrual loans        35,444
  
Total non performing loans        39,814
  
a post-modification balance of $8,945.



 September 30, 2011
 
Current
Loans
 
30-59
Days
Past Due
 
60-89
Days
Past Due
 
90+
Days
Past Due
 
Non-
Accrual
 
Total
Loans
Loans by segment:           
Real estate — residential mortgage$380,577
 $868
 $344
 $491
 $7,485
 $389,765
Real estate — commercial mortgage689,037
 768
 337
 1,989
 11,225
 703,356
Commercial business loans209,190
 490
 
 
 243
 209,923
Acquisition, development & construction loans154,682
 3,859
 406
 446
 16,538
 175,931
Consumer, including home equity loans221,880
 494
 300
 1,164
 986
 224,824
Total$1,655,366
 $6,479
 $1,387
 $4,090
 $36,477
 $1,703,799
Total troubled debt restructures included above$9,060
 $266
 $
 $446
 $7,792
 $17,564
Non performing loans:           
Loans 90+ and still accruing        $4,090
  
Non-accrual loans        36,477
  
Total non performing loans        40,567
  




86

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


Troubled Debt Restructures:
Troubled debt restructures are renegotiated loans for which concessions have been granted to the borrower that the Company would not have otherwise have granted and the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty. In order to determine whether a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, an evaluation is performed of the probability that the borrower will be in payment default on any of its debt in the foreseeable future without modification. This evaluation is performed under the company’s internal underwriting policy. The modification of the terms of such loans include one or a combination of the following: a reduction of the stated interest rate of the loan; an extension of the maturity date at a stated rate of interest lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk; or a permanent reduction of the recorded investment in the loan. Modifications involving a reduction of the stated interest rate of the loan were for period ranging from 3 months to 30 years. Modifications involving an extension of the maturity date were for periods ranging from 3months to 30 years. Restructured loans are recorded in accrual status when the loans have demonstrated performance, generally evidenced by six months of payment performance in accordance with the restructured terms, or by the presence of other significant items.

Not all loans that are restructured as a TDR are classified as non accrual before the restructuring occurs. If the subsequent TDR designation of these accruing loans has been assigned because of a below market interest rate or an extension of time, the new restructured loan will remain on accrual. As noted all other loan restructures requires a minimum of 6 months of performance in accordance with the regulatory guideline.

Troubled debt restructures at September 30, 2012 were as follows:
 
Current
Loans
 
30-59
Days
Past Due
 
60-89
Days
Past Due
 
90+
Days
Past Due
 
Non-
Accrual
 
Total
TDRs
Real estate—residential mortgage$1,226
 $
 $264
 $
 $2,178
 $3,668
Real estate—commercial mortgage2,640
 270
 
 
 
 2,910
Acquisition, development & construction9,677
 
 
 
 8,692
 18,369
Total$13,543
 $270
 $264
 $
 $10,870
 $24,947
Allowance$
 $
 $41
 $
 $955
 $996

Troubled debt restructures at September 30, 2011 were as follows:

 
Current
Loans
 
30-59
Days
Past Due
 
60-89
Days
Past Due
 
90+
Days
Past Due
 
Non-
Accrual
 
Total
TDRs
Real estate—residential mortgage$485
 $
 $
 $
 $1,226
 $1,711
Real estate—commercial mortgage1,439
 
 
 
 
 1,439
Acquisition, development & construction6,975
 266
 
 446
 6,566
 14,253
Consumer loans, including home equity161
 
 
 
 
 161
Total$9,060
 $266
 $
 $446
 $7,792
 $17,564
Allowance$7
 $56
 $
 $
 $346
 $409

The Company has committed to lend additional amounts totaling up to $4,225 as of September 30, 2012 and September 30, 2011 to customers with outstanding loans that are classified as troubled debt restructurings. The commitments to lend on the restructured debt is contingent on clear title and a third party inspection to verify completion of work and is associated with loans that are considered to be performing.

87

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following table presents loans by segment modified as troubled debt restructurings that occurred during the twelve months ending September 30, 2012, is as follows:
   Recorded Investment
 Number
Pre-
Modification
 
Post-
Modification
Restructured Loans:     
Real estate — residential mortgage5
 $1,525
 $1,295
Real estate — commercial mortgage3
 2,336
 2,351
Acquisition, development & construction loans4
 5,299
 5,299
Total restructured loans12
 $9,160
 $8,945

The troubled debt restructurings describedTDRs presented above increased the allowance for loan losses by $134$0, $300 and $134 and resulted in charge-offs of $0, $110 and $0 for the twelve months endingyears ended September 30, 2012. 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

There were no charge offs as a result of the above troubled debt restructurings.

A loan is considered to be in default once it is 90 days contractually past due under the modified terms. The following table presents by class loansTDRs that were modified as troubled debt restructurings during the last twelve months that havehad subsequently defaulted during September 30, 2012 and September 30, 2011:
 September 30, 2012 September 30, 2011
 
Number of
Loans
 
Recorded
Investment
 
Number of
Loans
 
Recorded
Investment
Acquisition, development & construction5
 $2,050
 
 $
Total5
 $2,050
 
 $

the year.
Credit Quality Indicators:Indicators

As part of the on-going monitoring of the credit quality of the Company’s loan portfolio, management tracks certain credit quality indicators including trends related to (i) the weighted-average risk grade of commercial loans, (ii) the level of classified commercial loans, (iii) the delinquency status of consumer loans (residential mortgage and home equity lines of credit (“HELOC”)), (iv) net charge-offs, (v) non-performing loans (see details above) and (vi) the general economic conditions in the greater New York metropolitan region. The Company categorizes loans into risk categories based on relevant information about the ability of borrowers to service their debt such as: current financial information, historical payment experience, credit documentation, public information and current economic trends, among other factors. The CompanyBank analyzes loans individually by classifying the loans as to credit risk. This analysis includes all loans.risk, except residential mortgage loans and consumer loans, which are evaluated on a homogeneous pool basis unless the loan balance is greater than $500. This analysis is performed on a monthly basisat least quarterly on all criticized/classified loans. The CompanyBank uses the following definitions of risk ratings:

1 and 2 - These grades include loans that are secured by cash, marketable securities or cash surrender value of life insurance policies.

3 - This grade includes loans to borrowers with strong earnings and cash flow and that have the ability to service debt. The borrower’s assets and liabilities are generally well matched and are above average quality. The borrower has ready access to multiple sources of funding including alternatives such as term loans, private equity placements or trade credit.

4 - This grade includes loans to borrowers with above average cash flow, adequate earnings and debt service coverage ratios. The borrower generates discretionary cash flow, assets and liabilities are reasonably matched, and the borrower has access to other sources of debt funding or additional trade credit at market rates.

5 - This grade includes loans to borrowers with adequate earnings and cash flow and reasonable debt service coverage ratios. Overall leverage is acceptable and there is average reliance upon trade debt. Management has a reasonable amount of experience and depth, and owners are willing to invest available outside capital as necessary.

6 - This grade includes loans to borrowers where there is evidence of some strain, earnings are inconsistent and volatile, and the borrowers’ outlook is uncertain. Generally such borrowers have higher leverage than those with a better risk rating. These borrowers typically have limited access to alternative sources of bank debt and may be dependent upon debt funding for working capital support.

7 - Special Mention (OCC definition) - . Loans classified as special mentionOther Assets Especially Mentioned (OAEM) are loans that have a potential weakness that deserves management’s close attention. If left uncorrected these potential weaknesses which may, result inif not reviewed or corrected, weaken the deterioration ofasset or inadequately protect the repayment prospects for the loan or the institution’sBank’s credit position at some future date. Such assets constitute an undue and unwarranted credit risk but not to the point of justifying a classification of “Substandard.” The credit risk may be relatively minor yet constitute an unwarranted risk in light of the circumstances surrounding a specific asset.

8 - Substandard (OCC definition). Loans classified as substandard - These loans are inadequately protected by the current netsound worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. LoansAssets so classified must have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardizejeopardizes the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the institutionBank will sustain some losslosses if the deficiencies are not corrected.
Doubtful. Loans Loss potential, while existing in the aggregate amount of substandard assets, does not have to exist in individual assets classified as doubtfulsubstandard.

9 - Doubtful (OCC definition)- These loans have all the weaknessesweakness inherent in thoseone classified as substandard,“Substandard” with the added characteristiccharacteristics that the weaknesses makeweakness makes collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, highly questionable and improbable. The possibility of loss is extremely high, but because of certain important and reasonably specific pending factors which may work to the advantage and strengthening of the asset, its classification as an estimated loss is deferred until its more exact status may be determined. Pending factors include proposed merger, acquisition, or liquidating procedures, capital injection, perfecting liens or additional collateral and refinancing plans.

10 - Loss (OCC definition) - These loans are charged-off because they are determined to be uncollectible and unbankable assets. This classification does not reflect that the asset has no absolute recovery or salvage value, but rather it is not practical or desirable to defer writing-off this asset even though partial recovery may be effected in the future. Losses should be taken in the period in which they are determined to be uncollectible.

8891

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)



Loans not meeting the criteria above that are analyzed individuallyrisk-rated 1 through 6 as part of thedefined above described process are considered to be pass ratedpass-rated loans.

Based on the most recent analysis performed as As of September 30, 20122014 and September 30, 2011,2013, the risk category of gross loans by segment of gross loans iswas as follows:
 September 30, 2012
 
Special
Mention
 Substandard Doubtful
Real estate — residential mortgage$830
 $11,314
 $
Real estate — commercial mortgage20,729
 27,674
 
Acquisition, development & construction5,669
 42,871
 
Commercial business loans14,920
 3,995
 338
Consumer loans, including home equity loans274
 2,482
 
Total$42,422
 $88,336
 $338
 September 30, 2014 September 30, 2013
 
Special
mention
 Substandard Doubtful 
Special
mention
 Substandard Doubtful
Commercial & industrial$24,980
 $5,749
 $
 $3,545
 $3,855
 $365
Payroll finance
 346
 
 
 
 
Factored receivables46
 370
 
 
 
 
Equipment financing
 262
 
 
 
 
Commercial real estate8,720
 26,826
 
 7,279
 24,561
 227
Multi-family
 131
 
 
 
 
Acquisition, development & construction1,040
 16,456
 
 1,867
 19,410
 
Residential mortgage2,988
 16,981
 
 824
 9,786
 
Consumer1,779
 5,972
 
 15
 2,891
 
Total$39,553
 $73,093
 $
 $13,530
 $60,503
 $592



 September 30, 2011
 
Special
Mention
 Substandard Doubtful
Real estate — residential mortgage$3,701
 $8,525
 $
Real estate — commercial mortgage11,072
 29,996
 
Acquisition, development & construction5,170
 49,294
 
Commercial business loans2,472
 3,651
 
Consumer loans, including home equity loans611
 2,523
 
Total$23,026
 $93,989
 $
(6) Premises and Equipment, Net
Premises and equipment are summarized as follows:
 September 30,
 2012 2011
Land and land improvements$7,331
 $7,331
Buildings31,903
 31,511
Leasehold improvements7,931
 7,858
Furniture, fixtures and equipment38,292
 36,869
  Total premises and equipment, gross85,457
 83,569
Accumulated depreciation and amortization(46,974) (42,683)
Total premises and equipment, net$38,483
 $40,886

8992

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

(5) Premises and Equipment, Net

Premises and equipment are summarized as follows:
 September 30,
 2014 2013
Land and land improvements$6,048
 $7,282
Buildings22,888
 30,558
Leasehold improvements32,963
 8,136
Furniture, fixtures and equipment50,343
 40,164
  Total premises and equipment, gross112,242
 86,140
Accumulated depreciation and amortization(68,956) (49,620)
Total premises and equipment, net$43,286
 $36,520

(7)(6) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill and other intangible assets are presented in the tables below. The increase in goodwill and certain other intangible assets in fiscal 2014 was related to the acquisition of Legacy Sterling, which is described more fully in Note 2. “Acquisitions.”

Goodwill
The change in goodwill duringin the year isfiscal years ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 was as follows:
 September 30,
 2014 2013
Beginning of year balance$163,117
 $163,247
Acquisitions225,809
 (130)
Disposals
 
End of year balance$388,926
 $163,117

During the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, the Company decreased the goodwill recorded in connection with the Gotham Bank acquisition by $130 based on the completion of the analysis of fair value of the net assets acquired.

Other intangible assets
The balance of other intangible assets at September 30, 2014 and 2013 was as follows:
 September 30,
 201220112010
Beginning of year$160,861
$160,861
$160,861
Acquisitions5,665


Disposals(3,279)

Impairment0

End of year$163,247
$160,861
$160,861
    
 Gross intangible assets Accumulated amortization Net intangible assets
September 30, 2014     
Core deposits$24,182
 $(4,694) $19,488
Non-compete agreements10,308
 (5,490) 4,818
Trade name20,500
 
 20,500
Fair value of below market leases725
 (253) 472
Provident Bank Ball Park naming rights2,414
 (2,414) 
 $58,129
 $(12,851) $45,278
September 30, 2013     
Core deposits$4,818
 $(798) $4,020
Provident Bank Ball Park naming rights2,414
 (543) 1,871
 $7,232
 $(1,341) $5,891

(8) Deposits
Deposit balances at September 30, 2012 and 2011 are summarized as follows:
 September 30,
 20122011
 Amount Amount 
Demand Deposits    
Retail$167,050
 $194,299
 
Commercial412,630
 296,505
 
Municipal367,624
 160,422
 
Total Non-interest bearing deposits947,304
 651,226
 
NOW Deposits    
Retail213,755
 164,637
 
Commercial38,486
 37,092
 
Municipal195,882
 200,773
 
Total Transaction deposits1,395,427
 1,053,728
 
Savings deposits506,538
 429,825
 
Money market deposits821,704
 509,483
 
Certificates of deposit387,482
 303,659
 
Total deposits$3,111,151
 $2,296,695
 
Municipal deposits held by PMB totaled $901,739 and $614,834 at September 30, 2012 and September 30, 2011, respectively. See Note 3, “Securities Available for Sale,” forIncluded in other intangible assets was an intangible asset associated with the amountnaming rights to Provident Bank Ball Park which is located in Rockland County, New York. At the time of securities that are pledged as collateral for municipal deposits and other purposes. Municipal deposits received for tax receipts were approximately $425,000 and $284,000 at September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Certificates of deposit hadthe Merger, the Company wrote-off the remaining periods to contractual maturity as follows:
 September 30,
 2012 2011
Remaining period to contractual maturity:   
Less than one year$344,033
 $250,769
One to two years26,407
 22,784
Two to three years10,601
 19,584
Three to four years3,261
 7,203
Four to five years3,180
 3,319
Total certificates of deposit$387,482
 $303,659
book value.

9093

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


Other intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line or accelerated bases over their estimated useful lives, which range from one to 10 years. Amortization expense related to core deposits, non-compete agreements and naming rights totaled $9,408, $1,296 and $1,245 for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. The amortization of the fair value of below market leases was included in rent expense for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014. The estimated aggregate future amortization expense for other intangible assets remaining as of September 30, 2014 was as follows:
 Amortization expense
2015$6,113
20165,042
20172,598
20182,178
20192,058
Thereafter6,786
 $24,775

(7) Deposits

Deposit balances at September 30, 2014 and 2013 are summarized as follows:
 September 30,
 2014 2013
Non-interest bearing demand$1,799,685
 $943,934
Interest bearing demand766,852
 434,398
Savings698,443
 580,125
Money market1,595,803
 735,709
Certificates of deposit437,871
 268,128
Total deposits$5,298,654
 $2,962,294
Municipal deposits totaled $992,761 and $757,065 at September 30, 2014 and September 30, 2013, respectively. See Note 3. “Securities” for the amount of securities that were pledged as collateral for municipal deposits and other purposes.
Certificates of deposit had remaining periods to contractual maturity as follows:
 September 30,
 2014 2013
Remaining period to contractual maturity:   
Less than one year$340,813
 $239,104
One to two years53,319
 17,248
Two to three years35,632
 5,185
Three to four years4,000
 3,062
Four to five years4,107
 3,529
Total certificates of deposit$437,871
 $268,128

94

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

CertificateCertificates of deposit accounts with a denomination of $100 or more totaled $203,516290,483 and $82,345104,225 at September 30, 20122014 and 2011,2013, respectively. Listed below are the Company’s brokered deposits:deposits at
September 30, 2014 and 2013:
September 30, 2012 September 30, 2011September 30,
Savings$13,344
 $
2014 2013
Money market46,566
 5,725
$84,022
 $34,571
Reciprocal CDAR’s 1
1,354
 2,746
34,017
 1,343
CDAR’s one way764
 3,366
3,028
 768
Total brokered deposits$62,028
 $11,837
$121,067
 $36,682
   
1 Certificate of deposit account registry service

(9) FHLB(8) Borrowings and Other BorrowingsSenior Notes

The Company’s FHLB and other borrowings and weighted average interest rates are summarized as follows:
 
September 30,September 30,
2012 20112014 2013
Amount Rate Amount RateAmount Rate Amount Rate
By type of borrowing:              
Advances$106,904
 3.89% $111,828
 3.83%
FHLB advances and overnight$795,028
 1.75% $442,602
 2.77%
Repurchase agreements238,272
 3.49% 211,694
 3.61%25,639
 0.39
 20,351
 0.88
Senior unsecured debt (FDIC insured)
 % 51,499
 2.75%
Fed funds purchased20,000
 0.31
 
 
Senior notes98,402
 5.98
 98,033
 5.98
Total borrowings$345,176
 3.61% $375,021
 3.56%$939,069
 2.12% $560,986
 3.26%
By remaining period to maturity:              
Less than one year$10,136
 1.88% $61,500
 2.96%$370,365
 0.69% $158,897
 0.95%
One to two years56,819
 2.44% 5,066
 4.04%140,344
 0.59
 78,717
 1.97
Two to three years52,693
 2.89% 35,795
 2.37%257,442
 3.52
 191
 5.32
Three to four years201
 5.32% 49,312
 2.28%168,402
 4.38
 202,414
 4.21
Four to five years202,386
 4.21% 211
 5.32%
 
 118,033
 5.57
Greater than five years22,941
 3.74% 223,137
 4.18%2,516
 4.92
 2,734
 4.92
Total borrowings$345,176
 3.61% $375,021
 3.56%$939,069
 2.12% $560,986
 3.26%

FHLB advances and overnight.As a member of the FHLB, the Bank may borrow in the form of term and overnight borrowings up to the amount of eligible residential mortgage loansmortgages and securities that have been pledged as collateral under a blanket security agreement. As of September 30, 20122014 and 2011,2013, the Bank had pledged residential mortgage and commercial real estate loans totaling $613,5541,246,315 and $464,900784,422, respectively. The Bank had also pledged securities with carrying amounts of $245,989 and $206,829 as of September 30, 2012 and September 30, 2011, respectively, to secure repurchase agreements.borrowings, which are disclosed in Note 3. “Securities.” As of September 30, 20122014, the Bank may increase its borrowing capacity by pledging securities and mortgagesmortgage loans not required to be pledged for other purposes with a marketcollateral value of $488,534703,486. FHLB advances are subject to prepayment penalties if repaid prior to maturity.

Securities repurchase agreements had weighted average remaining terms to maturity of approximately 3.65 years and 4.77 years at September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Average borrowings under securities repurchase agreements were $215,352 and $216,875 during the years ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively, and the maximum outstanding month-end balance was $238,272 and $222,500, at September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

FHLB borrowings (includes advance and repurchase agreements)which are putable quarterly at the discretion of the FHLB were $200,000 at September 30, 20122014 and 2011 respectively are putable quarterly, at the discretion of the FHLB.2013. These borrowings have a weighted average remaining term to the contractual maturity dates of approximately 4.56 year and 5.562.56 years and3.56 years and a weighted average interest rates of 4.23% at both September 30, 20122014 and 2013, respectively.

Repurchase agreements. 2011Securities sold under agreements to repurchase at September 30, 2014 are secured short-term borrowings that mature in one to 17 days. Repurchase agreements are stated at the amount of cash received in connection with these transactions. The Bank may be required to provide additional collateral based on the fair value of the underlying securities. The Bank had two $10,000 long-term repurchase agreements which were redeemed during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014.

Fed funds purchased. , respectively. An additional $20,000Fed funds purchased are putable on a one time basis after initial lockout period in February 2013 with a weighted average interest rateshort-term borrowings that typically mature daily and are recorded at the amount of 3.57% and a weighted average remaining term to contractual maturity of 5.42 years.funds received.


9195


In November 2011 the Company restructured $5,000 of its FHLBNY advances which had a weighted average rate of 4.04% and a duration of 1.5 years, into new borrowings with a weighted average rate of 2.37%, net of prepayment penalties, duration of 1.6 years. Prepayment fees of $278 associated with the modifications are being amortized to maturity on a level yield basis.

During 2011 the Company restructured $89,135 of its FHLBNY advances which had a weighted average rate of 3.69% and duration of 2.2 years, into new borrowings with a weighted average rate of 2.63%, duration of 1.43 years and an annualized interest expense savings of approximately $945 net of prepayment fees. Prepayment fees of $5,151 associated with the modifications are being amortized over the new duration of 1.43 years on a level yield basis.


92

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Revolving line of credit. On September 5, 2014, the Company entered into a $15,000 revolving line of credit facility with a financial institution that matures on September 5, 2015. The balance was zero at September 30, 2014. The use of proceeds are for general corporate purposes. The line and accrued interest is payable at maturity, and is required to maintain a zero balance for at least 30 days during its term. The line bears interest at one-month LIBOR plus 1.25%. Under the terms of the facility, the Company and the Bank must maintain certain ratios related to capital, non-performing assets to capital, reserves to non-performing loans and debt service coverage. The Company and the Bank were in compliance with all requirements of the line at September 30, 2014.

Senior Notes. On July 2, 2013, the Company issued $100,000 principal amount of 5.50% fixed rate Senior Notes through a private placement at a discount of 1.75%. The cost of issuance was $303, and at September 30, 2014 and 2013 the unamortized discount was $1,597 and $1,967, respectively, which will be accreted to interest expense over the life of the Senior Notes, resulting in an effective yield of 5.98%. Interest is due semi-annually in arrears on January 2 and July 2 until maturity on July 2, 2018. The Senior Notes were issued under an indenture (the “Indenture”) between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee.

(10)The Senior Notes are unsecured obligations of the Company and rank equally with all other unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness, and will be effectively subordinated to any secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the collateral securing such indebtedness, and structurally subordinated to the existing and future indebtedness of the Company’s subsidiaries.

The indenture includes provisions that, among other things, restrict the Company’s ability to dispose of or issue shares of voting stock of a principal subsidiary bank (as defined in the Indenture) or transfer the entirety of, or a substantial amount of, the Company’s assets or merge or consolidate with or into other entities, without satisfying certain conditions.

The Senior Notes will not be registered under the Securities Act and may not be offered or sold in the U.S. absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements.

Trust preferred capital securities. In connection with the Merger, the Company assumed $25,000 of trust preferred capital securities (the “Subordinated Debentures”). The capital securities, which were due March 31, 2032 and bore interest at 8.375%, were issued by Sterling Bancorp Trust I, a wholly-owned, non-consolidated statutory business trust. The trust was formed with initial capitalization of common stock and for the exclusive purpose of issuing the capital securities. The trust used the proceeds from the issuance of the capital securities to acquire $25,774 junior subordinated debenture securities that paid interest at 8.375% issued by the Company. The Company was not considered the primary beneficiary of the trust (which is a VIE); therefore, the trust was not consolidated in the Company’s financial statements and the subordinated debentures were recorded as a liability. The debt securities were due concurrently with the capital securities.

On June 1, 2014, the Company redeemed all of the outstanding capital securities at a redemption price equal to 100% of the liquidation amount of the securities plus accumulated and unpaid interest, with such redemption payment made on June 2, 2014. In connection with the redemption, the Company eliminated the unamortized premium recorded to reflect the fair value of the Subordinated Debentures at the date of the Merger. The balance of the unamortized premium was $712 and this amount was recognized as a gain on extinguishment of debt and recorded as a reduction of other non-interest expense in the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014.


(9) Derivatives

The Company purchasedhas two interest rate caps in the first quarter of fiscal 2010 to assist in offsettingoffset a portion of interest rate exposure should short termshort-term rate increases lead to rapid increases in general levels of market interest rates on deposits. These caps are linked to LIBOR and have strike prices of 3.5% and 4.0%. These caps are stand alone derivatives and therefore changes in fair value are reported in current period earnings. Losses recognized in earnings the amount for fiscal year 2012 is a loss ofwere $630 and a loss of $1972 in fiscal 2011.2014 and 2013, respectively. The fair value of the interest rate caps at September 30, 20122014, is reflected in other assets with a corresponding credit (charge) to income recorded as a gain (loss) to non-interest income.

The Company has entered into certain interest rate swap contracts that are not designated as hedging instruments. These derivative contracts relate to transactions in which the Company enters into an interest rate swap with a customer while at the same time entering into an offsetting interest rate swap with another financial institution. In connection with each swap transaction, the Company agrees to pay interest to the customer on a notional amount at a variable interest rate and receive interest from the customer on a similar notional amount at a fixed interest rate. At the same time, the Company agrees to pay another financial institution the same fixed interest rate on the same notional amount and receive the same variable interest rate on the same notional amount. The transaction allows the Company’s customers to effectively convert a variable rate loan to a fixed rate. Because the Company acts as an interest rate swap counterparty with certain commercial customers and manages this risk by entering into corresponding and offsetting interest rate risk agreements with third parties. The swaps are considered a derivative instrument and must be carried at fair value. Asintermediary for its customer, changes

96

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

in the swaps are not a designated qualifying hedge, the change in fair value is recognizedof the underlying derivative contracts for the most part offset each other and do not significantly impact the Company’s results of operations.

The Company pledged collateral to another financial institution in current earnings,the form of investment securities with no offset from any other instrument. There was no net gain or loss recorded in earnings during fiscal yearan amortized cost of 2012$5,034. Interest rate swaps are recorded on our consolidated statements and a fair value of financial condition$4,836 as an other asset or other liability at estimated fair value.
Atof September 30, 20122014, summary. The Company does not typically require its commercial customers to post cash or securities as collateral on its program of back-to-back swaps. However, certain language is written into the International Swaps and Derivatives Association agreement and loan documents where, in default situations, the Company is allowed to access collateral supporting the loan relationship to recover any losses suffered on the derivative asset or liability. The Company may need to post additional collateral to swap counterparties in the future in proportion to potential increases in unrealized loss positions.

Summary information as of September 30, 2014 and 2013 regarding these derivatives is presented below:
Notional
Amount
 
Average
Maturity
 
Weighted
Average
Rate Fixed
 
Weighted
Average
Variable Rate
 
Fair
Value
Notional
amount
 
Average
maturity (in years)
 
Weighted
average
fixed rate 
 
Weighted
average
variable rate
 Fair value
Interest Rate Caps$50,000
 2.18 3.75% NA $2
September 30, 2014       
Interest rate caps$50,000
 0.18 3.75% NA $
3rd party interest rate swap42,332
 7.30 4.29
 1 m Libor + 2.28 2,485
50,729
 4.86 4.20
 1 m Libor + 2.44 1,096
Customer interest rate swap(42,332) 7.30 4.29
 1 m Libor + 2.28 (2,485)(50,729) 4.86 4.20
 1 m Libor + 2.44 (1,096)
September 30, 2013     
Interest rate caps$50,000
 1.18 3.75% NA $
3rd party interest rate swap54,180
 5.76 4.22
 1 m Libor + 2.45 997
Customer interest rate swap(54,180) 5.76 4.22
 1 m Libor + 2.45 (997)
At September 30, 2011, summary information regarding these derivatives is presented below:
 
Notional
Amount
 
Average
Maturity
 
Weighted
Average
Rate Fixed
 
Weighted
Average
Variable Rate
 
Fair
Value
Interest Rate Caps$50,000
 3.18 3.75% NA $65
3rd party interest rate swap12,009
 10.23 5.28
 1 m Libor + 2.15 1,114
Customer interest rate swap(12,009) 10.23 5.28
 1 m Libor + 2.15 (1,114)

The Company enters into various commitments to sell real estate loans into the secondary market. Such commitments are considered to be derivative financial instruments and, therefore are carried at estimatedinstruments; however, the fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. The fair values of these commitments areis not considered material.

(11) Income Taxes
Income tax expense consists of the following:
 Years ended September 30,
 2012 2011 2010
Current tax expense:     
Federal$5,538
 $1,912
 $5,410
State685
 777
 1,437
 6,223
 2,689
 6,847
Deferred tax expense (benefit):     
Federal(261) 282
 375
State197
 (164) (349)
 (64) 118
 26
Total income tax expense$6,159
 $2,807
 $6,873

9397

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

(10) Income Taxes

Income tax expense for the periods indicated consists of the following:
 For the year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Current tax expense:     
Federal$11,613
 $9,146
 $5,538
State1,598
 1,549
 685
Total current tax expense13,211
 10,695
 6,223
Deferred tax (benefit) expense:     
Federal(2,745) 522
 (261)
State(314) 197
 197
Total deferred tax (benefit) expense(3,059) 719
 (64)
Total income tax expense$10,152
 $11,414
 $6,159


Actual income tax expense differs from the tax computed based on pre-tax income and the applicable statutory Federal tax rate for the following reasons:
 Years ended September 30,
 2012 2011 2010
Tax at Federal statutory rate of 35%$9,116
 $5,090
 $9,578
State income taxes, net of Federal tax benefit573
 430
 652
Tax-exempt interest(2,448) (2,551) (2,645)
BOLI income(718) (714) (715)
Non deductible compensation expense
 594
 
Non deductible acquisition costs418
 
 
Other, net(782) (42) 3
Actual income tax expense$6,159
 $2,807
 $6,873
Effective income tax rate23.6% 19.3% 25.1%


























 For the year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Tax at Federal statutory rate of 35%$13,241
 $12,833
 $9,116
State and local income taxes, net of Federal tax benefit834
 1,135
 573
Tax-exempt interest, net of disallowed interest(3,824) (2,192) (2,448)
BOLI income(1,110) (699) (718)
Non-deductible acquisition related costs712
 416
 418
Low income housing tax credits(165) 
 
Other, net464
 (79) (782)
Actual income tax expense$10,152
 $11,414
 $6,159
Effective income tax rate26.8% 31.1% 23.6%





9498

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following table presents the Company’s deferred tax position at September 30, 2014 and 2013:
September 30,September 30,
2012 20112014 2013
Deferred tax assets:      
Allowance for loan losses$11,566
 $11,362
$17,272
 $11,809
Deferred compensation1,429
 3,011
649
 798
Other accrued compensation and benefits5,418
 1,497
Accrued post retirement expense1,512
 1,343
2,705
 1,441
Core deposit intangibles109
 315
Other comprehensive income (defined benefits)5,612
 5,780
Deferred rent
 1,059
Intangible assets2,439
 
Other comprehensive loss (securities)5,777
 7,844
Other comprehensive loss (defined benefit plans)2,371
 2,638
Depreciation of premises and equipment433
 
State NOL carryforward1,431
 
Other5,566
 1,497
3,511
 2,172
Total deferred tax assets25,794
 23,308
42,006
 29,258
Deferred tax liabilities:      
Undistributed earnings of subsidiary not consolidated for tax return purposes (REIT Income)5,195
 5,801
Undistributed earnings of subsidiary not consolidated for tax return purposes (income from REITs)9,303
 4,483
Prepaid pension costs4,189
 4,846
10,579
 3,758
Purchase accounting adjustments597
 193
16,056
 1,057
Depreciation of premises and equipment2,822
 486
Other comprehensive income (securities)10,300
 9,302
Depreciation and lease adjustments
 2,686
Deferred rent163
 
Intangibles amortization
 112
Other2,187
 810
2,557
 2,207
Total deferred tax liabilities25,290
 21,438
38,658
 14,303
Net deferred tax asset$504
 $1,870
$3,348
 $14,955

Based on the Company’s consideration of historical and anticipated future pre-tax income, as well as the reversal period for the items giving rise to the deferred tax assets and liabilities, a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets was not considered necessary at either September 30, 20122014 and or 2013.2011.

Retained earnings at September 30, 20122014 and 2011 include2013 included approximately $9,313$9,313 for which no provision for federal income taxes has been made. This amount represents the tax bad debt reserve at December 31, 1987, which is the end of the Bank'sBanks base year for purposes of calculating the bad debt deduction for tax purposes. If this portion of retained earnings is used in the future for any purposes other than to absorb bad debts, the amount used will be added to future taxable income. The unrecorded deferred tax liability on the above amount at both September 30, 20122014 and 20112013 was approximately $3,260.$3,260.

As ofAt September 30, 20122014 the Company has state and local NOL carryforwards that were acquired from Legacy Sterling as part of the Merger on October 31, 2013. The utilization of state and local NOLs are subject to an annual limitation. Based on our projections, we believe the state and local NOL carryforwards will be fully utilized before expiration.

At 2011September 30, 2014,and 2013, the Company had no unrecognized tax benefits or accrued interest and penalties recorded. theThe Company does not expect the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits to significantly increase within the next twelve months. The Company records interest and penalties as a component of income tax expense.
Provident New York Bancorp
Sterling and its subsidiaries are subject to the U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of the state of New York and various other state income taxes.states. The companyCompany is no longer subject to examination by federalFederal and New York taxing authorities for tax years prior to 2009.2011.
(12)(11) Employee Benefit Plans and Stock-Based Compensation Plans


99

Table of Contents
STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

(a) Pension Plans
On May 31, 2014, the Company merged the Provident Bank Benefit Pension Plan (the “legacy Provident Plan”) and the Legacy Sterling/Sterling National Bank Employees’ Retirement Plan (the “Legacy Sterling Plan”) and formed the Sterling National Bank Defined Benefit Pension Plan. The Company has a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan coveringlegacy Provident Plan covers employees that were eligible as of September 30, 2006. In July, 2006 theThe Board of Directors of the Company approved a curtailment to the legacy Provident Bank Defined Benefit Pension Plan (“the Plan”) as ofeffective September 30, 2006. At that time, all benefit accruals for future service ceased and no new participants maywere allowed to enter the plan.Plan. The purpose of the Plan curtailment was to afford flexibility in the retirement benefits the Company provides, while preserving all retirement plan participants’ earned and vested benefits, and to manage the increasing costs associated with the defined benefit pension plan. The Legacy Sterling Plan was a defined benefit plan that covered eligible employees of Legacy Sterling and Legacy Sterling National Bank and certain of its subsidiaries who were hired prior to January 3, 2006 and who attained age 21 prior to January 3, 2007. Effective October 31, 2013, the Legacy Sterling Plan was amended and the accrued benefit of each eligible actively employed participant that had not yet commenced benefits was increased by approximately 4.4% and the accrual of future service benefits ceased. 

The following is a summary of changes in the projected benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets. The Company uses a September 30 measurement date for its pension plans.
 September 30,
 2014 2013
Changes in projected benefit obligation:   
Beginning of year balance$31,705
 $35,471
Benefit obligation of the Legacy Sterling Plan at October 31, 201352,296
 
Service cost
 
Interest cost2,779
 1,452
Actuarial loss (gain)9,460
 (3,672)
Partial settlement(44,774) 
Benefits and distributions paid(1,748) (1,546)
End of year balance49,718
 31,705
Changes in fair value of plan assets:   
Beginning of year balance35,417
 32,657
Fair value of the Legacy Sterling Plan assets at October 31, 201371,538
 
Actual gain on plan assets8,137
 4,306
Employer contributions
 
Partial settlement(44,774) 
Benefits and distributions paid(1,748) (1,546)
End of year balance68,570
 35,417
Funded status at end of year$18,852
 $3,712

During the year ended September 30, 2014 the Company settled a portion of the pension obligation associated with retired employees in the amount of $44,774 through the purchase of annuities.

The over-funded status of the Sterling National Bank Defined Benefit Pension Plan is included in other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The components of net periodic pension expense were as follows:

100

Table of Contents
STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 For the year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Service cost$
 $
 $
Interest cost2,779
 1,452
 1,501
Expected return on plan assets(3,380) (2,462) (2,125)
Amortization of unrecognized actuarial loss236
 2,062
 2,316
Partial settlement charge3,922
 
 
Net periodic pension expense$3,557
 $1,052
 $1,692

Net periodic pension expense is included in compensation and benefits in the Consolidated Income Statements.

The amount of unrecognized actuarial loss and prior service cost that is expected to be amortized to net periodic pension expense during the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015 is $0.
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) at September 30, 2014 and 2013 consisted of:
 September 30,
 2014 2013
Unrecognized actuarial loss$(6,024) $(5,479)
Deferred tax asset2,556
 2,225
Net amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss)$(3,468) $(3,254)

The principal actuarial assumptions used at September 30, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
 September 30,
 2014 2013
Projected benefit obligation:   
Discount rate4.50% 5.20%
Net periodic pension cost:   
Discount rate4.50% 5.20%
Long-term rate of return on plan assets4.00% 7.75%

The discount rate used in the measurement of the projected benefit obligation is determined by comparing the expected future retirement benefit payment cash flows of the Plan to the cash flows of a high-quality corporate bond portfolio as of the measurement date. The expected long-term rate of return on Plan assets reflect earnings expectations on existing Plan assets.  In estimating this rate, appropriate consideration was given to historical returns earned by Plan assets in the funds and the rates of return expected to be available for reinvestment.  The rate of return estimated at September 30, 2014 reflects the shift in the allocation of the Plan assets to a liability driven investment strategy which is more heavily weighted towards long-term fixed income assets with a similar duration profile to the Plan liabilities.  

Estimated future benefit payments are the following for the years ending September 30:
2015$726
2016902
20171,079
20181,625
20191,851
2020 - 202413,461


101

Table of Contents
STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The Company’s funding policy is to contribute annually an amount sufficient to meet statutory minimum funding requirements, but not in excess of the maximum amount deductible for Federal income tax purposes. Contributions are intended to provide not only for benefits attributed to service to date, but also for benefits expected to be earned in the future.

The following is a summarydescription of the valuation methodologies used for assets measured at fair value. There were no changes in the projected benefit obligationmethodologies used at September 30, 2014 and fair value of plan assets. The Company uses2013. See Note 17. “Fair Value Measurements” for a September 30th measurement date for its pension plans.

95

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


 September 30,
 2012 2011
Changes in projected benefit obligation:   
Beginning of year$30,612
 $31,109
Service cost
 
Interest cost1,501
 1,498
Actuarial loss4,961
 647
Benefits and distributions paid(1,603) (2,642)
End of year35,471
 30,612
Changes in fair value of plan assets:   
Beginning of year28,312
 26,796
Actual gain (loss) on plan assets5,948
 (242)
Employer contributions
 4,400
Benefits and distributions paid(1,603) (2,642)
End of year32,657
 28,312
Funded status at end of year$(2,814) $(2,300)
Included in the $2,642 benefit and distributions paid during fiscal year 2011 was $490 in settlement charges related the retirementdetailed discussion of the Company's prior CEO.
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at September 30, 2012 and 2011 consisted of:
 2012 2011
Unrecognized actuarial loss$(13,056) $(14,234)
Deferred tax asset5,612
 5,780
Net amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)$(7,444) $(8,454)
Discount ratesthree levels of 4.1%, 5.0% and 5.0% wereinputs that may be used in determining the actuarial present value of the projected benefit obligation at September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. No compensation increases were used as the plan is frozen. The weighted average long-term rate of return on plan assets was 7.8% for fiscal years ended 2012 and 2011. The accumulated benefit obligation was $35,471 and $30,612 at year end September 30, 2012 and 2011 respectively. The discount rate used in the determination of net periodic pension expense were 4.1%, 5.0% and 5.0%, for the years ending September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid:
2013$1,406
20141,492
20151,773
20161,723
20171,662
2018 - 20219,975

96

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)measure fair values.


The components of the net periodic pension expense (benefit) were as follows:
 Years ended September 30,
 2012 2011 2010
Service cost$
 $
 $
Interest cost1,501
 1,498
 1,555
Expected return on plan assets(2,125) (2,343) (1,890)
Amortization of unrecognized loss2,316
 1,667
 1,509
Settlement Charge
 490
 
Net periodic pension expense$1,692
 $1,312
 $1,174
Unrecognized actuarial loss and prior service cost totaling $1.7 million is expected to be amortized to pension expense during the next fiscal year ending September 30, 2013.
Equity, Debt, Invest Funds and Other Securities: The fair values for investment securities are determined by quoted market prices, if available (Level 1). For securities where quoted prices are not readily available, fair values are calculated based on market prices of similar securities (Level 2). For securities where quoted prices or market prices of similar securities are not available, fair values are calculated using discounted cash flows or other market indicators (Level 3).
The fair value of the planPlan assets consistingis based on the lowest level of variousany input that is significant to the fair value measurement within the fair value hierarchy. Plan assets consisted of pooled separate accounts at September 30, 2014. The fair value of shares of units of participation in pooled separate accounts are based on the net asset values of the funds reported by the fund managers as of September 30, 2014 and recent transaction prices (Level 2 inputs). Assets allocated to these pooled separate accounts can include, but are not limited to stocks (both domestic and foreign), bonds and mutual fundsfunds. While some pooled separate accounts may have publicly quoted prices (Level 1 inputs), the units of separate accounts are not publicly quoted and pooled investment funds atare therefore classified as Level 2. The fair value of Plan assets by asset category as of September 30, 20122014, by asset category, is as follows: and 2013, was the following:
 September 30, 2014
 Fair value Level 1 inputs Level 2 inputs Level 3 inputs
Asset category:       
Intermediate term bond$8,629
 $
 $8,629
 $
Long-term bond59,892
 
 59,892
 
Total assets$68,521
 $
 $68,521
 $
 
 Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2012 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets Level 1 Significant Other Observable Inputs Level 2 Significant Unobservable Inputs Level 3
Asset Category       
Large U.S. equity$14,358
 $
 $14,358
 $
Small Mid U.S. equity3,672
 
 3,672
 
International Equity3,284
 
 3,284
 
Total Equity21,314
 
 21,314
 
        
Moderate Allocation1,646
 1,646
 
 
Total Balanced Asset Allocation1,646
 1,646
 
 
        
High yield bond981
 981
 
 
Intermediate term bond8,716
 
 8,716
 
Inflation protected bond
 
 
 
Total Fixed Income9,697
 981
 8,716
 
Cash
 
 
 
Total Assets$32,657
 $2,627
 $30,030
 $

97

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 September 30, 2013
 Fair value Level 1 inputs Level 2 inputs Level 3 inputs
Asset category:       
Large cap U.S. equity$16,378
 $
 $16,378
 $
Small and mid cap U.S. equity4,443
 
 4,443
 
International equity3,654
 
 3,654
 
Total equity24,475
 
 24,475
 
Total balanced asset allocation1,691
 
 1,691
 
High yield bond1,018
 
 1,018
 
Intermediate term bond8,233
 
 8,233
 
Total fixed income9,251
 
 9,251
 
Total assets$35,417
 $
 $35,417
 $


The fair value of the plan assets consisting of various mutual funds and pooled investment funds at September 30, 2011, by asset category, is as follows:
 Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2011 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets Level 1 Significant Other Observable Inputs Level 2 Significant Unobservable Inputs Level 3
Asset Category       
Large U.S. equity$13,549
 $
 $13,549
 $
Small Mid U.S. equity3,238
 
 3,238
 
International Equity2,607
 
 2,607
 
Total Equity19,394
 
 19,394
 
High yield bond914
 
 914
 
Intermediate term bond6,447
 
 6,447
 
Inflation protected bond1,557
 
 1,557
 
Total Fixed Income8,918
 
 8,918
 
Cash
 
 
 
Total Assets$28,312
 $
 $28,312
 $
The Company’s policy is to invest the pension planPlan assets in a prudent manner for the purpose of providing benefit payments to participants and mitigatingoffsetting reasonable expenses of administration. TheHistorically, the Company’s investment strategy iswas designed to provide a total return that, over the long-term, placesplaced a strong emphasis on the preservation of capital. The strategy attempts to maximize investment returns on assets at a level of risk deemed appropriate by the Company while complyingcapital and compliance with applicable regulations and laws. Management intends to terminate the Plan in fiscal 2015 subject to obtaining required approvals from the Internal Revenue Service and other regulators. Therefore, the investment allocation of Plan assets was shifted in fiscal 2014 to a liability driven investment strategy which is more heavily weighted towards long-term fixed income assets with a similar duration profile to the Plan liabilities. As of September 30, 2014, the majority of the Plan assets were invested in funds specifically designed for liability driven investment strategies and had a weighted average expected rate of return of 4.0%.


102

Table of Contents
STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The Plan’s investment policy prohibits the direct investment in real estate but does allowallows the Plan’s mutual funds to include a small percentage of real estate related investments. The investment strategy utilizes asset allocation as a principal determinant for establishing an appropriate risk profile. Weighted-averageWeighted average pension plan asset allocations based on the fair value of such assets at September 30, 2011,2014 and September 30, 20102013 and target allocationsallocation ranges for 2012,2014, by asset category, are as follows:

 2014 2013 
Target allocation
range 2014
 
Weighted
average expected
rate of return
Large cap U.S. equity% 44% 
 %
Small and mid cap U.S. equity
 11
 
 
International equity
 10
 
 
Total equity
 65
 0% 
Total balanced asset allocation
 5
 
 
High yield bond
 3
 
 
Intermediate term bond13
 27
 
 
Long-term bond87
 
 
 
Total fixed income100
 30
 95% - 100% 4.0
Total assets100% 100%   4.0%
Cash
 
 0% to 5% 

 September 30, 2011 September 30, 2012 
Target Allocation
Range 2012
 
Weighted
Average Expected
Rate of Return
Large U.S. equity securities48% 44% 
 3.55%
Small mid U.S. equity securities11% 11% 
 1.04%
International equity securities9% 10% 
 1.39%
Total equity securities68% 65% 45% - 70% 2.78%
Moderate allocation% 5% 
 0.35%
Total balanced asset allocation% 5% 
 0.35%
High yield bond3% 3% 
 0.28%
Intermediate term bond23% 27% 
 1.85%
Inflation protected bond6% % 
 %
Total fixed income32% 30% 20% - 40% 1.69%
Cash% % 0% - 20% %
The expected long-term rate of return assumption as of each measurement date was determined by taking into consideration asset allocations as of each such date, historical returns on the types of assets held, and current economic factors. Under this method, historical investment returns for each major asset category are applied to the expected future investment allocation in that category as a percentage of total plan assets, and a weighted average is determined. The Company’s investment policy for determining the asset allocation targets was developed based on the desire to optimize total return while placing a strong emphasis on preservation of capital. In general, it is hoped that, in the aggregate, changes in the fair value of plan assets will be less volatile than similar changes in appropriate market indices. Returns on invested assets are periodically compared with target market indices for each asset type to aid us in evaluating such returns.

98

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


There were no pension plan assets consisting of ProvidentSterling Bancorp equity securities (common stock) at September 30, 20122014 or at September 30, 2011.2013.

The Company makes contributions to its funded qualified pension plans as required by government regulation or as deemed appropriate by management after considering the fair value of plan assets, expected returns on such assets, and the present value of benefit obligations of the plans. At this time, the Company has not determined whether contributions in 2012fiscal 2015 will be made.
The Company has also established a non-qualified Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (“SERP”) to provide certain executives with supplemental retirement benefits in addition to the benefits provided by the pension plan due to amounts limited by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“IRS Code”). The periodic pension expense for the supplemental plan amounted to $41, $44 and $87 for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Additionally, a settlement charge of $278 in 2011 was recorded reflecting the partial settlement of the defined benefit portion of the SERP relating to the former CEO benefit obligation. The actuarial present value of the projected benefit obligation and the vested benefit obligation was $1,016 and $912 at September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively, and the vested benefit obligation was $1,016 and $912 for the same periods, respectively, all of which is unfunded. Discount rates of 2.5% and 3.3% were used in determining the actuarial projected benefit at September 30, 2012 and 4.8% and 4.50% for September 30, 2011.
(b) Other Post retirementRetirement Benefit Plans
The Company’s postretirementCompany provides other post retirement benefit plans, which are unfunded, provideunfunded. Included in the tables below is information regarding the Company’s optional medical, dental and life insurance benefits to retirees or death benefit paymentsplan, Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan to beneficiariescertain former directors and officers of employees covered by the Company, and Bank Owned Life Insurance policies. The Company has elected to amortize the transition obligation for accumulatedlife insurance benefits to retirees as an expense over a 20 year period.certain directors, officers and former officers of Legacy Sterling.
Data relating to the postretirement benefit plan follows:
 September 30,
 2012 2011
Change in accumulated postretirement benefit obligation:   
Beginning of year$2,509
 $2,261
Service cost46
 38
Interest cost125
 107
Actuarial loss548
 209
Plan participants’ contributions
 
Amendments
 
Benefits paid(125) (106)
End of year$3,103
 $2,509
Changes in fair value of plan assets:   
Beginning of year$
 $
Employer contributions125
 106
Plan participants’ contributions
 
Benefits paid(125) (106)
End of year$
 $
Funded status$(3,103) $(2,509)


99103

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


Data relating to other post retirement benefit plans is the following:

 September 30,
 2014 2013
Changes in accumulated post retirement benefit obligation:   
Beginning of year$3,302
 $3,103
Obligations assumed from Legacy Sterling9,644
 
Service cost51
 48
Interest cost683
 134
Actuarial loss79
 177
Curtailment (gain)(2,485) 
Benefits paid(284) (160)
End of year10,990
 3,302
Changes in fair value of plan assets:   
Beginning of year$
 $
Employer contributions284
 160
Plan participants’ contributions
 
Benefits paid(284) (160)
End of year
 
Funded status$(10,990) $(3,302)
Components of net periodic (benefit) expense for other post retirement benefit expense (benefit):
plans was the following:
For years ended September 30,For the year ended September 30,
2012 2011 20102014 2013 2012
Service Cost$46
 $38
 $28
Interest Cost125
 107
 107
Service cost$51
 $48
 $46
Interest cost683
 134
 125
Amortization of transition obligation24
 24
 24
34
 24
 24
Amortization of prior service cost47
 48
 49
270
 47
 47
Amortization of net actuarial gain(25) (60) (95)
Amortization of net actuarial (gain) loss(45) 2
 (25)
Curtailment (gain)(2,485) 
 
Total$217
 $157
 $113
$(1,492) $255
 $217
There
The Company terminated the optional medical and dental plan to retirees effective September 30, 2014 and all payments under the plan will cease on December 31, 2014. Net periodic benefit expense for other post retirement benefit plans is $16 unrecognized actuarial gainincluded in non-interest expense - compensation and prior service cost expected to be amortized out of accumulatedemployee benefits for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012. The Company’s liability under its other comprehensive incomepost retirement benefit plans is included in 2013.other liabilities in the balance sheet at September 30, 2014 and 2013.

Estimated Future Benefit Payments
The followingfuture benefit payments are expected to be paid in future years:
the following for the years ending September 30:
2013$186
2014188
2015191
$660
2016193
231
2017197
271
2018 - 20211,012
2018319
2019373
2020 - 20242,370
 

104

Table of Contents
STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Plan assumptions for the other post retirement medical, dental and vision plans include the following:
Assumptions used for plan2012 2011
For the year ended September 30,
2014 2013
Medical trend rate next year4.5% 4.5%4.5% 4.5%
Ultimate trend rate4.5% 4.5%4.5
 4.5
Discount rate4.1% 4.3%3.50% to 4.27%
 4.2
Discount rate used to value periodic cost4.3% 4.5%3.50% to 4.20%
 4.1
There is no impact of a 1% increase or decrease in health care trend rate due to the Company’s cap on cost.
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at September 30, 2012 and 2011 consisted of:
 2012 2011
Postretirement plan unrecognized gain$175
 $771
Postretirement plan unrecognized service cost(317) (364)
Postretirement unrecognized transition obligation(30) (41)
Postretirement SERP(400) (244)
Postemployment BOLI(122) (144)
Subtotal(694) (22)
Deferred tax asset (liability)282
 9
Net amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)$(412) $(13)
(c) Employee Savings Plan
The Company also sponsors a defined contribution plan established under Section 401(k) of the IRS Code. Eligible employees may elect to contribute up to 50.0% of their compensation to the plan. The Company currently makes matching contributions equal to 50.0% of a participant’s contributions up to a maximum matching contribution of 3.0% of eligible compensation. Effective after September 30, 2006, the Bank amended theThe plan to includealso provides for a discretionary profit sharing component, in addition to the matching contributions. Fiscal year 20122014 did not include a profit sharing component. Voluntary matching and profit

100

Table of Contents
PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


sharing contributions are invested in accordance with the participant’s direction in one or a number of investment options. Savings plan expense was $1,0291,614, $1,875935 and $1,7511,029 for the years ended September 30, 20122014, 20112013 and 20102012, respectively.

(d) Employee Stock Ownership Plan
In connection with the reorganization and initial common stock offering in (1999, the Company established an ESOP for eligible employees who meet certain age and service requirements. The ESOP borrowed $3,760 from the Bank and used the funds to purchase1,370,112 shares of common stock in the open market subsequent to the Offering. The Bank made periodic contributions to the ESOP sufficient to satisfy the debt service requirements of the loan which matured December 31, 2007. The ESOP used these contributions, any dividends received by the ESOP on unallocated shares and forfeitures beginning in 2007, to make principal and interest payments on the loan.)
In connection with the Second-Step Stock Conversion and Offering in January 2004, the Company established an ESOP loan for substantially all eligible employees.employees who meet certain age and service requirements. The ESOP borrowed $9,987 from Provident BancorpSterling and used the funds to purchase 998,650 shares of common stock in the offering. The term of the secondthis ESOP loan iswas twenty years.

ESOP shares are held byOn October 30, 2013,  the Company terminated the ESOP.  In accordance with the provisions of the plan, trustee in a suspense account until allocated to participant accounts. Shares released from the suspense account are allocated toall participants on the basis of their relative compensation in thereceived contributions for calendar year of allocation. Participants become2013 and became 100% vested in their accounts.  On February 4, 2014, the allocatedESOP held 499,330 shares over a period notof the Company’s common stock.  Of these shares, 488,403 were used to exceed five years. Any forfeitedretire the ESOP trust outstanding loan obligation, which was $5,983 including accrued interest.  In accordance with the provisions of the ESOP, the remaining 10,927 shares were allocated ratably to other participants in the same proportion as contributions through 2006 and beginning in 2007 are used by the plan to reduce debt service. A total ofESOP participants.  ESOP expense was $0295, $4497, and $29 related to plan forfeitures were reversed against expense$390 for the years ended September 30, 20122014, 2011,2013 and 2010 respectively.
ESOP expense (net of forfeitures) was $390, $436, and $413 for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Through September 30, 2012 and 2011, a cumulative total of 1,804,942 and 1,755,010 shares, respectively, have been allocated to participants or committed to be released for allocation, respectively. The cost of ESOP shares that have not yet been allocated to participants or committed to be released for allocation is deducted from stockholders’ equity; 563,826 shares with a cost of $5,638 and a fair value of approximately $5,306 at September 30, 2012 and 613,758 shares with a cost of $6,138 and a fair value of approximately $3,572 at September 30, 2011, respectively.
A supplemental savings plan has also been established for certain senior officers to compensate executives for benefits provided under the Bank’s tax qualified plans (employee’s savings plan and ESOP) that are limited by the IRS Code. Expense recognized for this plan including the defined benefit component was $0, $340, and $146, for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Amounts accrued and recorded in other liabilities at September 30, 2012 and 2011, including the defined benefit component were $1.2 million and $1.6 million respectively.
(e) Recognition and Retention PlanStock Compensation Plans
In February 2000, theThe Company has active stock compensation plans as described below.

The Company’s stockholders approved the Provident Bank 2000 Recognition and Retention Plan (the RRP). The principal purpose of the RRP is to provide executive officers and directors a proprietary interest in the Company in a manner designed to encourage their continued performance and service. The awards vested at a rate of 20% on each of five annual vesting dates, the first of which was September 30, 2000. As of February 2010, 27,413 shares remaining from this plan were no longer eligible to be granted.
In January 2005, the Company’s stockholders approved the Provident Bancorp, Inc. 20042014 Stock Incentive Plan under(the “2014 Plan”) on February 20, 2014. The 2014 Plan permits the termsgrant of which the Company is authorized to issuestock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock (both time-based and performance-based), restricted stock units, performance units, deferred stock, and other stock-based awards for up to 798,9203,400,000 shares of common stock. At September 30, 2014 there were 3,350,761 shares available for future grant. The 2014 Plan replaced the Company’s 2012 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2012 Plan”) described below.

Under the 2014 Plan, any shares that are subject to stock options or stock appreciation rights are counted as one share deducted from the 2014 Plan for every one share delivered under those awards. Any shares granted under the 2014 Plan that are subject to awards other than stock options and stock appreciation rights are counted as 3.5 shares deducted from the 2014 Plan for every one share delivered under those awards.

The 2012 Plan was a shareholder-approved plan that permitted the grant of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock (both time-based and performance-based), restricted stock units, performance units, deferred stock and other stock-based awards. Employees who retire under circumstances in accordance withPrior to the termsapproval of the 2014 Plan, may be entitledthere were 566,554 shares remaining for issuance under the 2012 Plan. These shares are included in the aggregate 3,400,000 shares available under the 2014 Plan. The Company will no longer make awards under the 2012 Plan.

The Company’s 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2004 Plan”), was a shareholder-approved plan that permitted the grant of stock options to accelerateits employees for up to 2,796,220 shares of common stock. The Company will no longer make awards under the vesting of individual awards. Such acceleration would require a charge to earnings for the award shares that would then vest.2004 Plan. As of September 30, 20122014, 5,33311,533 restricted shares awarded under the 2004 Plan were potentially subject to accelerated vesting.
Undervesting as the 2004 restricted stock plan, 2,120 shares of authorized but un-issued shares remain availableemployees were eligible for future grant at retirement.September 30, 2011. Forfeited shares are available for re-issuance. The Company also can fund the restricted stock plan with treasury stock. The fair market value of the shares awarded under the restricted stock plan is being amortized to expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the underlying shares. In addition, 41,370 shares of restricted stock were issued as inducement shares, which have three and four year vesting periods. Compensation expense related to the restricted stock plan was $276, $168, and $883 for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The remaining unearned compensation cost of $665 as of September 30, 2012 is recorded as a reduction of additional paid in capital and will be expensed over three years. On grant date, shares awarded under the restricted stock plan were transferred from treasury stock at cost with the difference between the fair market value on the grant date and the cost basis of the shares recorded as a reduction to retained earnings or an increase to additional paid-in capital, as applicable.

101105

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


A summary of restricted stock award activity under the plan for the year ended September 30, 2012, is presented below:
 
Number
of Shares
 
Weighted
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
Nonvested shares at September 30, 201157,520
 $8.77
Granted58,000
 7.91
Vested(16,703) 9.27
Forfeited(1,000) 9.85
Nonvested shares at September 30, 201297,817
 $8.31
The total fair value of restricted stock vested for fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010 was $157, $73, and $575, respectively.
(f) Stock Option Plan
The Company’s stockholders approved the Provident Bank 2000 Stock Option Plan (the Stock Option Plan) in February 2000. A total of 1,712,640 shares of authorized but unissued common stock was reserved for issuance under the Stock Option Plan, although the Company may also fund option exercises using treasury shares. The Company’s stockholders also approved the Provident Bancorp, Inc. 2004 Stock Incentive Plan, in February 2005. Under this plan 0 shares of authorized but unissued remain available for future grant at September 30, 2012. Under terms of the plan, a total of 1,997,300 shares of authorized but unissued common stock were reserved for issuance under the Stock Option Plan. Under both plans, options have a ten-year term and may be either non-qualified stock options or incentive stock options. Reload options may be granted under the terms of the 2000 Stock Option Plan and provide for the automatic grant of a new option at the then-current market price in exchange for each previously owned share tendered by an employee in a stock-for-stock exercise. In February 2010, the 2000 Stock Option Plan expired with 338,594 options un-granted and no longer eligible for grant. The 2004 Plan options do not contain reload options. However, the 2004 plan allows for the grant of stock appreciation rights. Each option entitles the holder to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price equal to the fair market value of the stock on the grant date. Employees who retire under circumstances, in accordance with the terms of the Plan, may be entitled to accelerate the vesting of individual awards. In addition, 107,526 shares of stock options were issued as inducement shares, which have a four year vesting period.

The Company’s shareholders approved the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan (stock option plan) on February 16, 2012. The plan permits the grant of share options to employees for up to 2,749,300 shares of common stock as of September 30, 2012. The plan allows for the following type of stock based awards to be issued: options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards, performance based restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards, deferred stock awards, performance unit awards or other stock based awards. Option awards are generally granted with an exercise pricea fair value equal to the market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant; those optionthe awards generally vest in equal installments annually on the anniversary date and have total vesting periods ranging from 2 to 5 years and stock options have 10 year contractual terms.

The Company’s 2004 Restricted Stock Plan, which historically has been referred to as the Recognition and Retention Plan (“RRP”), provides for the issuance of shares to directors and officers. RRP shares vest annually on the anniversary of the grant date over the vesting period. There were no shares remaining that are authorized and available for future grant under the RRP at September 30, 2014.

In addition to the above plans, the Company provided awards under its 2011 Employment Inducement Stock Program which included options to purchase 107,256 shares of common stock and restricted stock awards covering 29,550 shares of common stock, both of which vest in four equal installments through July 2015, and performance-based restricted stock awards covering 11,820 shares which vest upon attainment of designated performance conditions in combination with continued service through December 31, 2014. These awards are governed by the terms of an award notice and the terms of the 2004 Plan.

In connection with the Merger, the Company granted 104,152 options at an exercise price of $14.25 per share pursuant to a Registration Statement on Form S-8 under which the Company assumed all outstanding fully vested Legacy Sterling stock options. Substantially all of these options expire March 15, 2017. During the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014, 37,873 of these awards were canceled or forfeited. The Company has a policyalso granted 95,991 shares under the Sterling Bancorp 2013 Employment Inducement Award Plan to certain executive officers of using shares held as treasury stock to satisfy share option exercises. Currently,Legacy Sterling. In addition, the Company hasissued 255,973 shares of restricted stock from shares available under the Company’s 2012 Plan to certain executives of Legacy Sterling. The weighted average grant date fair value was $11.72 per share and the restricted stock awards vest in equal annual installments on the anniversary date oversufficient number of treasury shares to satisfy expected share option exercises.three-year period.

As ofThe following table summarizes the activity in the Company’s active stock-based compensation plans for September 30, 20122014, :24,383
   Non-vested stock awards/stock units outstanding Stock options outstanding
 Shares available for grant Number of shares Weighted average grant date fair value Number of shares Weighted average exercise price
Balance at October 1, 20132,066,184
 209,697
 $8.73
 2,114,509
 $10.71
2014 Stock Incentive Plan3,400,000
        
2012 Stock Incentive Plan termination(566,554)        
Grants associated with the Merger(1)
(921,503) 351,964
 11.72
 104,152
 14.25
Granted (1)
(719,674) 115,145
 11.53
 324,862
 11.45
Stock awards vested
 (69,211) 9.51
 
 
Exercised
 
 
 (507,955) 11.29
Forfeited439,594
 (18,841) (9.18) (375,235) 12.24
Canceled/expired(347,286) 
 
 
 

Balance at September 30, 20143,350,761
 588,754
 $10.99
 1,660,333
 $10.55
Exercisable at September 30, 2014      951,492
 $11.11
(1) Reflects certain non-vested stock awards that count as 3.5 shares were potentially subject to accelerated vesting. Substantially, all stock options outstanding are expected to vest. Compensation expense related to stock option plans was $521, $558 and $247or 3.6 shares for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.each share granted.


102106

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following is a summary of activity in the Stock Option Plan:
Other information regarding options outstanding at September 30, 2014 follows:
 
Shares subject
to option
 
Weighted
Average
exercise price
Outstanding shares at September 30, 20111,906,020
 $12.20
Granted515,000
 7.82
Exercised
 
Forfeited(448,540) 12.29
Outstanding shares at September 30, 20121,972,480
 $11.04
 Outstanding Exercisable
   Weighted average   Weighted average
 
Number of
stock options
 
Exercise
price
 
Life
(in years)
 
Number of
stock options
 
Exercise
price
 
Life
(in years)
Range of exercise prices:           
$6.71 to $9.00689,711
 $8.38
 7.57 322,148
 $8.36
 7.57
$9.28 to $12.64787,243
 11.73
 5.02 445,965
 12.05
 5.10
$12.84 to $13.92183,379
 13.68
 2.69 183,379
 13.68
 2.69
 1,660,333
 10.55
 5.82 951,492
 11.11
 5.82

The total intrinsic value of outstanding in-the-money stock options vested (exercisable) for fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011and 2010 was $0, respectively. The unrecognized compensation cost associated withoutstanding in-the-money exercisable stock options was $1,177 as of September 30, 2012$3.9 million and is expected to be recognized in expense over a period of 3 years.
At September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively, there were 2,873,757 and 207,607 shares available for future grant. The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding as of September 30, 2012 was $946. The aggregate intrinsic value represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value (the difference between the Company’s closing stock price on the last trading date of the year ended September 30, 2012 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in the money options). The cash received from option exercises was $0 for fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively. There was no tax benefit recorded in the results of operations to the Company from the exercise of options for either fiscal 2012 or fiscal 2011.
A summary of stock options$1.8 million, at September 30, 20122014 follows:.
 Outstanding Exercisable
   Weighted-Average   Weighted-Average
 
Number of
Stock Options
 
Exercise
Price
 
Life
(in Years)
 
Number of
Stock Options
 
Exercise
Price
 
Life
(in Years)
Range of Exercise Price           
$6.71 to $10.03796,526
 $8.35
 8.9
 196,881
 $9.77
 8.9
$10.85 to $12.6472,124
 11.87
 2.3
 70,124
 11.85
 2.3
$12.84 to $15.661,103,830
 12.92
 2.7
 1,083,030
 12.91
 2.7
 1,972,480
 $11.04
 5.2
 1,350,035
 $12.40
 5.2

The aggregate intrinsic value of options currently exercisable as ofProceeds from stock option exercises were $2,980, $62 and $102 for fiscal September 30,2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. was $33. All non vested shares are expected to vest.

The Company uses an option pricing model to estimate the grant date fair value of stock options granted. The weighted-averageweighted average estimated value per option granted was $2.51 in 2014, $2.74 in 2013, and $2.31 in 2012, $2.27 in 2011, and $2.69 in 2010.

The fair value of options granted was determined using the following weighted-average assumptions as of the grant date:
 For the year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Risk-free interest rate1.8% 1.0% 1.4%
Expected stock price volatility26.4
 40.8
 40.0
Dividend yield (1)
2.0
 2.6
 3.0
Expected term in years5.67
 5.75
 5.82
(1) Represents the approximate annualized cash dividend rate paid with respect to a share of common stock at or near the grant date.

Stock-based compensation expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service period for all awards. Stock-based compensation expense associated with stock options and non-vested stock awards and the related income tax benefit was as follows:
 2012 2011 2010
Risk-free interest rate (1)
1.42% 2.2% 2.2%
Expected stock price volatility40.0% 34.5% 33.2%
Dividend yield (2)
3.03% 2.8% 1.9%
Expected term in years5.82
 5.9
 7.7
 For the year ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Stock options$901
 $695
 $521
Non-vested stock awards/performance units2,508
 1,047
 276
Total$3,409
 $1,742
 $797
Income tax benefit914
 542
 188

(1)
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense at September 30, 2014 was as follows:

 September 30, 2014
Stock options$962
Non-vested stock awards/stock units4,013
Total$4,975

The weighted average period over which unrecognized stock options was expected to be recognized was 1.66 years. The weighted average period over which unrecognized non-vested awards/performance units was expected to be recognized was 1.82 years.
represents the yield on a risk free rate of return (either the US Treasury curve or the SWAP curve, in periods with high volatility in US Treasury securities) with a remaining term equal to the expected option term
(2)
represents the approximate annualized cash dividend rate paid with respect to a share of common stock at or near the grant date


103107

PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


(12) Other Non-interest Expense

Other non-interest expense items are presented in the following table. Components exceeding 1% of the aggregate of total net interest income and total non-interest income are presented separately.
  For the year ended September 30,
  2014 2013 2012
Other non-interest expense:      
   Advertising and promotion $2,358
 $1,502
 $1,849
   Professional fees 6,913
 3,393
 4,247
   Data and check processing 3,439
 2,520
 2,802
   ATM/debit card expense 1,249
 1,722
 1,711
Insurance & surety bond premium 2,703
 1,199
 1,220
Charge for asset write-downs, severance and retention 22,976
 
 
Charge for banking systems conversion 3,249
 
 
   Other 15,030
 7,040
 6,562
Total other non-interest expense $57,917
 $17,376
 $18,391
       


(13) Earnings Per Common Share

The following is a summary of the calculation of earnings per share (EPS)(“EPS”):
 
Years ended September 30,For the year ended September 30,
2012 2011 20102014 2013 2012
Net income$19,888
 $11,739
 $20,492
$27,678
 $25,254
 $19,888
Weighted average common shares outstanding for computation of basic EPS (1)
38,227,653
 37,452,596
 38,161,180
80,268,970
 43,734,425
 38,227,653
Common-equivalent shares due to the dilutive effect of stock options (2)
20,393
 946
 23,942
265,073
 48,628
 20,393
Weighted average common shares for computation of diluted EPS38,248,046
 37,453,542
 38,185,122
80,534,043
 43,783,053
 38,248,046
Earnings per common share:          
Basic$0.52
 $0.31
 $0.54
$0.34
 $0.58
 $0.52
Diluted$0.52
 $0.31
 $0.54
0.34
 0.58
 0.52
 
(1)Excludes unallocatedIncludes earned ESOP shares.
(2)Represents incremental shares computed using the treasury stock method.

As of September 30, 20122014, 20112013 and 20102012 there were 697,475; 1,771,1321,786,608, 1,871,299; and 1,826,5191,771,132 stock options, respectively, that were considered anti-dilutive for these periods and were not included in common-equivalent shares.
(14) Stockholders’ Equity

(a) Regulatory Capital Requirements
OCC regulations require banks to maintainIn connection with the Merger, the Company became a minimum ratio of tangible capital to total adjusted assets of 1.5%, a minimum ratio of Tier 1 (core) capital to total adjusted assets of 4.0%,bank holding company and a minimumfinancial holding company as defined by the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended. Effective in the quarter ended December 31, 2013, Sterling Bancorp is subject to capital ratio of total (corerequirements as discussed below.

Banks and supplementary) capitalbank holding companies are subject to risk-weighted assets of 8.0%. The bank has met thesevarious regulatory capital requirements as of September 30, 2012.
Provident Bank committed toadministered by the OCC to have an 8.0% Tier 1 leverage ratio upon consummation of the Gotham Bank mergerfederal banking agencies. Capital adequacy guidelines, and thereafter to maintain comparable levels consistent with its capital management policy. At the time of the merger with Gotham Bank, Provident Bank's Tier 1 leverage ratio exceeded 8.0%.
Under itsadditionally for banks, prompt corrective action regulations, the OCC is required to take certain supervisory actions (and may take additional discretionary actions) with respect to an undercapitalized institution. Such actions could have a direct material effect on the institution’s financial statements.
The regulations establish a framework for the classification of banks into five categories: well capitalized; adequately capitalized; undercapitalized; significantly undercapitalized; and critically undercapitalized. Generally, an institution is considered well-capitalized if it has a Tier 1 (core) capital to total adjusted assets ratio of at least 5.0%, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 6.0%, and a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10.0%.
The foregoing capital ratios are based, in part, on specificinvolve quantitative measures of assets,

108

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheetoff-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the OCCregulators about capital components, risk weightingsrisk-weighting, and other factors. TheseQuantitative measures established by regulations to ensure capital adequacy require the maintenance of minimum amounts and ratios (as forth in the table below) of Total and Tier 1 capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined), and of Tier 1 capital to adjusted quarterly average assets (as defined).

The Tier 1 and Total capital ratios are calculated by dividing the respective capital amounts by risk-weighed assets. Risk-weighted assets are calculated based on regulatory requirements apply onlyand include total assets, excluding goodwill and other intangible assets, allocated by risk weight category, and certain off-balance sheet items (mainly loan commitments). Tier 1 capital to average assets is calculated by dividing Tier 1 capital by adjusted quarterly average total assets, which exclude goodwill and other intangible assets.

Fiscal year end actual and required capital ratios for the Company and the Bank and do not consider additional capital retained by Provident Bancorp.were as follows:
We believe
      Regulatory requirements
  The Bank and the Company 
Minimum capital
adequacy
 
Classification as well-
capitalized
 
  Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio
 September 30, 2014           
 Tier 1 leverage capital (to average assets):          
 Sterling National Bank$636,507
 9.34% $272,542
 4.00% $340,677
 5.00%
 Sterling Bancorp553,117
 8.12
 272,385
 4.00
 340,481
 5.00
             
 Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets):          
 Sterling National Bank636,507
 11.94
 213,176
 4.00
 319,763
 6.00
 Sterling Bancorp553,117
 10.33
 214,102
 4.00
 321,153
 6.00
             
 Total capital (to risk-weighted assets):          
 Sterling National Bank677,514
 12.71
 426,351
 8.00
 532,939
 10.00
 Sterling Bancorp594,124
 11.10
 428,204
 8.00
 535,254
 10.00
             
  Sterling National Bank only        
 September 30, 2013           
 Tier 1 leverage$363,274
 9.33% $155,670
 4.00% $194,587
 5.00%
 Risk-based capital:           
 Tier 1363,274
 13.18
 110,235
 4.00
 165,352
 6.00
 Total392,376
 14.24
 220,469
 8.00
 275,587
 10.00

Management believes that as of September 30, 20122014, Sterling Bancorp and 2011Sterling National Bank were “well-capitalized”.

A reconciliation of the Bank met allCompany’s stockholders’ equity to its regulatory capital adequacy requirements to which it was subject. Further, the most recent OCC notification categorized the Bank as a well-capitalized institution under the prompt corrective action regulations. There have been no conditions or events since that notification that we believe have changedat September 30, 2014 and the Bank’s capital classification.
The following is a summary oftotal stockholder’s equity to the Bank’s actual regulatory capital amounts and ratios at September 30, 20122014 and 2011, compared to the OCC requirements for minimum capital adequacy and for classification2013 is as a well-capitalized institution. PMB is also subject to certain regulatory capital requirements, which it satisfied as of September 30, 2012 and 2011.
follows:

104109

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


             
      OCC requirements
  Bank actual 
Minimum capital
adequacy
 
Classification as  well
capitalized
 
  Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio
 September 30, 2012:           
 Tangible capital$289,441
 7.5% $57,551
 1.5% $
 %
 Tier 1 (core) capital289,441
 7.5
 153,469
 4.0
 191,836
 5.0
 Risk-based capital:           
 Tier 1289,441
 12.1
 
 
 143,085
 6.0
 Total$317,929
 13.3
 $190,780
 8.0
 $238,475
 10.0
 September 30, 2011:           
 Tangible capital$241,196
 8.1% $44,460
 1.5% $
 
 Tier 1 (core) capital241,196
 8.1
 118,559
 4.0
 148,199
 5.0%
 Risk-based capital:           
 Tier 1241,196
 11.8
 
 
 122,126
 6.0
 Total$265,307
 13.0
 $162,835
 8.0
 $203,544
 10.0
Tangible and Tier 1 capital amounts represent the stockholder’s equity of the Bank, less intangible assets and after-tax net unrealized gains (losses) on securities available for sale and any other disallowed assets, such as deferred income taxes. Total capital represents Tier 1 capital plus the allowance for loan losses up to a maximum amount equal to 1.3% of risk-weighted assets.
The following is a reconciliation of the Bank’s total stockholder’s equity under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and its regulatory capital:
 September 30,
 2012 2011
Total GAAP stockholder’s equity (Provident Bank)$466,037
 $405,638
Goodwill and certain intangible assets(169,525) (159,306)
Unrealized gains on securities available for sale included in other accumulated comprehensive income(15,077) (13,604)
Disallowed servicing asset(162) 
Other Comprehensive loss8,168
 8,468
Tangible, tier 1 core and   
Tier 1 risk-based capital289,441
 241,196
Allowance for loan losses28,488
 24,111
Total risk-based capital$317,929
 $265,307
 The Company The Bank
 September 30, September 30,
 2014 2014 2013
Total GAAP stockholders’ equity$961,138
 $1,011,973
 $516,281
Disallowed goodwill and other intangible assets(419,327) (386,766) (168,122)
Net unrealized loss on available for sale securities7,815
 7,809
 11,455
Disallowed servicing asset(153) (153) (198)
Net actuarial loss on defined benefit pension plans3,644
 3,644
 3,858
Tier 1 risk-based capital553,117
 636,507
 363,274
Allowance for loan losses and off-balance sheet commitments41,007
 41,007
 29,102
Total risk-based capital$594,124
 $677,514
 $392,376
 
(b) Dividend PaymentsRestrictions
OCC regulations limit the amount of cashThe Company is mainly dependent upon dividends that can be made byfrom the Bank to the Company. Furthermore, because the Bank is a subsidiary of a holding company, it must file a notice with the Federal Reserve at least 30 days before the Bank’s Board of Directors declares a dividend. This notice may be disapproved if the Federal Reserve finds that:
the savings association would be undercapitalized or worse following the dividend;
the proposed dividend raises safety and soundness concerns; or
the dividend would violate a prohibition contained in any statute, regulation, enforcement action, or agreement with or condition imposed by an appropriate federal banking agency.

Under OCC regulations, savings associations such as the Bank generally may declare annual cash dividends up to an amount equal to the sum of net incomeprovide funds for the current calendar year and net income retained for the two preceding calendar years. Dividend payments in excess of this amount require OCC approval. After September 30, 2012 the amount that can be paid to Provident Bancorp by Provident Bank is $10.0 million plus earnings for the remainder of calendar year 2012.

105

PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The Bank paid $6.0 million in dividends to Provident Bancorp during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 ($10.0 million during the year ended 2011 and $29.4 million during the year ended September 30, 2010).

Unlike the Bank, Provident Bancorp is not subject to OCC regulatory limitations on the payment of dividends to stockholders and to provide for other cash requirements. Banking regulations may limit the amount of dividends that may be paid. Approval by regulatory authorities is required if the effect of dividends declared would cause the regulatory capital of the Bank to fall below specified minimum levels. Approval is also required if dividends declared exceed the net profits for that fiscal year combined with the retained net profits for the preceding two fiscal years. Under the foregoing dividend restrictions and while maintaining its stockholders.“well-capitalized” status, at September 30, 2014, the Bank had capacity to pay aggregate dividends of up to $47,879 to the Company without prior regulatory approval.

(c) Stock Repurchase ProgramsPlans
From time to time, the Company’s board of directors has authorized stock repurchase plans. The Company announced its fifth stock repurchase program December 17, 2009, authorizing the repurchase of 2,000,000 common stockhas 776,713 shares of which 776,713 shares remainthat are available to be purchased at September 30, 2012.

under an announced stock repurchase program. There were no shares repurchased under the repurchase programs during the fiscal yearyears ended September 30, 2012. The total number of shares repurchased under repurchase programs during the fiscal year ending 20112014, and 2013, or 2012.2010, was 457,454 and 1,515,923, respectively at a total cost of $3.8 million and $12.9 million, respectively.

(d) Liquidation Rights
Upon completion of the second-step conversion in January 2004, the Bank established a special “liquidation account” in accordance with OCC regulations. The account was established for the benefit of Eligible Account Holders and Supplemental Eligible Account Holders (as defined in the plan of conversion) in an amount equal to the greater of (i) the Mutual Holding Company’s ownership interest in the retained earnings of Provident Federalthe Bank as of the date of its latest balance sheet contained in the prospectus, or (ii) the retained earnings of the Bank at the time that the Bank reorganized into the Mutual Holding Company in 1999. Each Eligible Account Holder and Supplemental Eligible Account Holder that continues to maintain his or her deposit account at the Bank would be entitled, in the event of a complete liquidation of the Bank, to a pro rata interest in the liquidation account prior to any payment to the stockholders of the Holding Company. The liquidation account is reduced annually on September 30 to the extent that Eligible Account Holders and Supplemental Eligible Account Holders have reduced their qualifying deposits as of each anniversary date. At September 30, 20122014, the liquidation account had a balance of $15.0 million13,300. Subsequent increases in deposits do not restore such account holder’s interest in the liquidation account. The Bank may not pay cash dividends or make other capital distributions if the effect thereof would be to reduce its stockholder’s equity below the amount of the liquidation account.

(15) Off-Balance-Sheet Financial Instruments

In the normal course of business, the Company is a partyenters into various transactions, which in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles are not included in its consolidated balance sheet. The Company enters into these transactions to off-balance-sheet financial instruments thatmeet the financing needs of its customers. These transactions include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit, which involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk and interest rate risk in addition toexcess of the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements.balance sheets. The Company minimizes its exposure to loss under these commitments by subjecting them to credit approval and monitoring procedures.

The Company enters into contractual commitments to extend credit, normally with fixed expiration dates or termination clauses, at specified rates and for specific purposes.  Substantially all of the Company’s commitments to extend credit are contingent upon customers maintaining specific credit standards at the time of loan funding. Standby letters of credit are written conditional commitments issued by the Company to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third-party. In the event the customer does not perform in accordance with the terms of the agreement with the third-party, the Company would be required to fund the commitment. The maximum potential amount of future payments the Company could be required to make is represented by the contractual amount of the commitment. If the commitment were funded, the Company would be entitled to seek recovery from the customer. Based on the Company’s credit risk

110





exposure assessment of standby letter of credit arrangements, the arrangements contain security and debt covenants similar to those contained in loan agreements. As of September 30, 2014, the Company had $97,468 in outstanding letters of credit, of which $21,756 were secured by cash collateral and $34,687 were secured by other collateral. The carrying value of these obligations are not considered material.

The contractual or notional amounts of these instruments, which reflect the extent of the Company’s involvement in particular classes of off-balance-sheetoff-balance sheet financial instruments, are summarized as follows:
 
 September 30,
 2012 2011
Lending-related instruments:   
Loan origination commitments$125,729
 $127,307
Unused lines of credit265,940
 239,387
Letters of credit26,441
 16,972
As of September 30, 2012 and 2011, 91.0%, and 88.0%, respectively of lending related off balance sheet instruments were held at variable rates.
The contractual amounts of loan origination commitments, unused lines of credit and letters of credit represent the Company’s maximum potential exposure to credit loss, assuming (i) the instruments are fully funded at a later date, (ii) the borrowers do not meet the contractual payment obligations, and (iii) any collateral or other security proves to be worthless. The contractual amounts of these instruments do not necessarily represent future cash requirements since certain of these instruments may expire without being funded and others may not be fully drawn upon. Substantially all of these lending-related instruments have been entered into with customers located in the Company’s primary market area described in Note 5 (“Loans”).

106

PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 September 30,
 2014 2013
Loan origination commitments$213,793
 $171,032
Unused lines of credit306,482
 207,201
Letters of credit97,468
 35,052


Loan origination commitments are legally-binding agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitments have fixed expiration dates (generally ranging up to 60 days) or other termination clauses, and may require payment of a fee by the customer. The Company evaluates each customer’s credit worthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral, if any, obtained by the Company upon extension of credit, is based on our credit evaluation of the borrower. Collateral varies but may include mortgages on residential and commercial real estate, deposit accounts with the Company, and other property. The Company’s loan origination commitments at September 30, 2012 provide for interest rates ranging principally from 2.75% to 5.5%.
Unused lines of credit are legally-binding agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Lines of credit generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by the Company, is based on our credit evaluation of the borrower.
Letters of credit are commitments issued by the Company on behalf of its customer in favor of a beneficiary that specify an amount the Company can be called upon to pay upon the beneficiary’s compliance with the terms of the letter of credit. These commitments are nearly all standby letters of credit and are primarily issued in favor of local municipalities to support the obligor’s completion of real estate development projects. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers.
As of September 30, 2012, the Company had $26,441 in outstanding letters of credit, of which $10,300 were secured by collateral.

(16) Commitments and Contingencies

Certain premises and equipment are leased under operating leases with terms expiring through 2033. The Company has the option to renew certain of these leases for additional terms. Future minimum rental payments due under non-cancelablenon-cancellable operating leases with initial or remaining terms of more than one year at September 30, 20122014 were as follows (for fiscal years ending September 30follows:th):
2013$2,782
20142,554
$8,984
20152,475
8,517
20162,445
7,690
20172,454
7,702
2018 and thereafter13,024
20186,386
2019 and thereafter27,012
$25,734
$66,291

Occupancy and office operations expense includeincludes net rent expense of $2,9527,893, $2,8453,340 and $2,8022,952 for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.2011 and 2010, respectively. The consolidation of two leased branches resulted in a restructuring charge of $2.1 million at September 30, 2011.

Litigation
The Company isand the Bank are involved in a defendant in certain claims andnumber of judicial proceedings concerning matters arising from conducting their business activities. These include routine legal actionsproceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. After consultationThese proceedings also include actions brought against the Company and the Bank with respect to corporate matters and transactions in which the Company and the Bank were involved. In addition, the Company and the Bank may be requested to provide information or otherwise cooperate with government authorities in the conduct of investigations of other persons or industry groups. It is possible the Company will be named as a defendant in shareholder litigation arising out of the announcement of the HVB Merger. The Company believes that any such claims would be without merit.

There can be no assurance as to the ultimate outcome of a legal counsel,proceeding; however, the Company and the Bank have generally denied, or believe they have meritorious defenses and will deny, liability in all significant litigation pending against us, and we do not anticipate losses on anyintend to defend vigorously each case, other than matters we determine are appropriate to be settled. We accrue a liability for legal claims when payments associated with the claims become probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated. The actual costs of theseresolving legal claims may be substantially higher or actions that would have a material adverse effect onlower than the consolidated financial statements.amounts accrued for those claims.


(17) Fair value measurements

Fair value is the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (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. There are three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair values.


111

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Level 1 Inputs Valuation is based onUnadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities.liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date.

Level 2 Inputs Valuation is determined fromInputs 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 or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instrumentsassets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or by model-based techniques in which all significant inputs other than quoted prices that are observable infor the market.asset or liability (such as interest rates, volatilities, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.) or inputs that are derived principally from, or corroborated by, market data by correlation or other means.

Level 3 Inputs Valuation is derived from model-based techniques in which at least one significant input is unobservable and based onUnobservable inputs for determining the Company’sfair value of assets or liabilities that reflect an entity’s own estimatesassumptions about the assumptions that the market participants would use to valuein pricing the assetassets or liability.liabilities.


107

PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


When available, the Company attempts to useIn general, fair value is based on quoted market prices, in active markets to determine fair value and classifies such items as Level 1 or Level 2.when available. If quoted market prices in active markets are not available, fair value is often determined using model-based techniques incorporating variousbased on internally developed models that primarily use, as inputs, observable market-based parameters. Valuation adjustments may be made to ensure that financial instruments are recorded at fair value.  These adjustments may include amounts to reflect counterparty credit quality and the Company’s creditworthiness, among other things, as well as unobservable parameters. Any such valuation adjustments are applied consistently over time. The Company’s valuation methodologies may produce a fair value calculation that may not be indicative of net realizable value or reflective of future fair values. While management believes the Company’s valuation methodologies are appropriate and consistent with other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions including interest rates, prepayment speedsto determine the fair value of certain financial instruments could result in a different estimate of fair value at the reporting date. Furthermore, the reported fair value amounts have not been comprehensively revalued since the presentation dates, and credit losses. Assets and liabilities valued using model-based techniques are classified as either Level 2 or Level 3, depending ontherefore, estimates of fair value after the lowest level classification of an input that is considered significant tobalance sheet date may differ significantly from the overall valuation.

The following is aamounts presented herein. A more detailed description of the valuation methodologies used for the Company’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value is set forth below. Transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy are recognized on the actual date of the event or circumstances that are measured on a recurring basis at estimated fair value.caused the transfer, which generally coincide with the Company’s monthly and/or quarterly valuation process.

Investment securities availableSecurities Available for saleSale
The majority of the Company’s available for sale investment securities have been valued by reference to prices for similarare reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. For these securities, or through model-based techniques in which all significant inputs are observable and, therefore, such valuations have been classified as Level 2. U.S. Treasuries are actively traded and therefore have been classified as Level 1 valuations. As of October 1, 2010, the Company determined that government sponsored agencies totaling $346,019 previously reported as Level 1 securities were not classified based on the lowest level within theobtains fair value hierarchymeasurements from an independent pricing service. The fair value measurements consider observable data that may include dealer quotes, market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, live trading levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information and deemed it appropriate to transfer the securities to Level 2.securities’ terms and conditions, among other things.

The Company utilizes an outside vendor to obtain valuations for its traded securitiesreviews the prices supplied by the independent pricing service, as well as information received from a third party investment adviser. The majority oftheir underlying pricing methodologies, for reasonableness and to ensure such prices are aligned with traditional pricing matrices. In general, the Company’s available for sale investment securities (mortgage-backed securities issued by US government corporations and government sponsored entities) have been valued by reference to prices for similar securities or through model-based techniques in which all significant inputs are observable (Level 2). The Company utilizes prices from a leading provider of financial market data and compares them to dealer indicative bids from the Company’s external investment adviser. The Company does not make adjustmentspurchase investment securities that have a complicated structure. The Company’s entire portfolio consists of traditional investments, nearly all of which are mortgage pass-through securities, state and municipal general obligation or revenue bonds, U.S. agency bullet and callable securities and corporate bonds. Pricing for such instruments is fairly generic and is easily obtained. From time to these prices unless it is determined there is limited trading activity. For securities where there is limited trading activity (private label CMO’s) and less observable valuation inputs,time, the Company has classified such valuations as Level 3.validates, on a sample basis, prices supplied by the independent pricing service by comparison to prices obtained from third-party sources or derived using internal models.

The Company reviewedreports the volume and levelfair value of activity for its available for sale securities to identify transactions which may not be orderly or reflective of significant activity and volume. Although estimated prices were generally obtained for such securities, there has been a decline in the volume and level of activity in the market for its private label mortgage-backed securities. The market assumptions regarding credit adjusted cash flows and liquidity influences on discount rates were difficult to observe at the individualcollateralized mortgage obligations or “CMOs” with a rating from a nationally recognized bond level. Becauserating agency of the inactivity in the markets and the lack of observable valuation inputs the Company has classified the valuation of privately issued residential mortgage-backed securities asbelow investment grade using Level 3.3 inputs. As of September 30, 20122014, these securities have an amortized cost of $4,665$2,866 and a fair value of $4,630. In determining the fair value$2,869, representing 17 basis points of these securities the Company utilized unobservable inputs which reflect assumptions regarding the inputs that market participants would use in pricing these securities in an orderly market. Significant increases (decreases) in any of the unobservable inputs would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement of the securities. Generally, a change in the assumption used for the default rate is accompanied by a directionally similar change in the assumption used for the loss severity and a directionally opposite change in the assumption used for prepayment rates. Present value estimated cash flow models were used discounted at a the securities rate reflective of similarly structured securities in an orderly market. The resultant prices were averaged with prices obtained from two independent third parties to arrive at the fair value as ofour total investment portfolio. At September 30, 20122014. The Company’s Chief Financial Officer ultimately determines the fair value of level 3 investment, we do not anticipate further OTTI charges on these securities. These securities, have a weighted average coupon rate of 3.0%, a weighted average life of 5.3 years , a weighted average 1 month prepayment history of 17.37 years and a weighted average twelve month default rate of 2.37 CDR. It was determined that two of these securitiesalong with a carrying amount of $4,197 and an amortized cost of $4,240 had an other than temporary loss which resulted in a $47 other than temporary impairment charge as of September 30, 2012. The calculationall of the Company’s other than temporary chargessecurities, will be reviewed on at least a quarterly basis to assess whether the impairment, if any, is determined by performing a present value of credit loss using the securities book yields of OTTI.3.4% and 2.9%.

108

PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The investment grades of these securities are as follows:
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair
Value
Investment Rating:   
Aa3$300
 $309
Ba1125
 124
B12,567
 2,524
B31,673
 1,673
Total private label CMOs$4,665
 $4,630
 
Derivatives
The fair values of derivatives are based on valuation models using current market terms (including interest rates and fees), the remaining terms of the agreements and the credit worthiness of the counter partycounterparty as of the measurement date (Level 2). The Company’s derivatives consist of two interest rate caps and sixtwelve interest rate swaps (see footnote 10).swaps. See Note 9. “Derivatives.”


112

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Commitments to sell real estate loansSell Real Estate Loans
The Company enters into various commitments to sell real estate loans intoin the secondary market. Such commitments are considered to be derivative financial instruments and therefore are carried at estimated fair value on the consolidated statements of financial condition.balance sheets. The estimated fair values of these commitments were generally calculated by reference to quoted prices in secondary markets for commitments to sell to certain government sponsored agencies. The fair values of these commitments generally result in a Level 2 classification. The fair valuesvalue of these commitments areis not considered material.
A summary of assets and liabilities at September 30, 20122014 measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis wereis as follows:
 
Fair Value
Measurements
at
September 30,
2012
 Quoted Prices in Active markets for Identical Assets Level 1 Significant Other Observable Inputs Level 2 Significant Unobservable Inputs Level 3
Investment securities available for sale:       
Mortgage-backed securities-residential       
Fannie Mae$161,407
 $
 $161,407
 $
Freddie Mac85,260
 
 85,260
 
Ginnie Mae4,778
 
 4,778
 
CMO/Other MBS188,434
 
 188,434
 
Privately issued collateralized mortgage obligations4,630
 
 
 4,630
 444,509
 
 439,879
 4,630
Investment securities       
Federal agencies408,823
 
 408,823
 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions156,481
 
 156,481
 
Equities1,059
 
 1,059
 
Total investment securities available for sale566,363
 
 566,363
 
Total available for sale securities1,010,872
 
 1,006,242
 4,630
Interest rate caps and swaps2,488
 
 2,488
 
Total assets$1,013,360
 $
 $1,008,730
 $4,630
Swaps$2,485
 $
 $2,485
 $
Total Liabilities$2,485
 $
 $2,485
 $
 September 30, 2014
 Fair value Level 1 inputs Level 2 inputs Level 3 inputs
Asset:       
Investment securities available for sale:       
Residential MBS:       
Agency-backed$477,705
 $
 $477,705
 $
CMO/Other MBS111,276
 
 111,276
 
Privately issued CMOs2,869
 
 
 2,869
Total residential MBS591,850
 
 588,981
 2,869
Federal agencies152,814
 
 152,814
 
Corporate bonds192,839
 
 192,839
 
State and municipal134,898
 
 134,898
 
Trust preferred38,412
 
 38,412
 
Total other securities518,963
 
 518,963
 
Total investment securities available for sale1,110,813
 
 1,107,944
 2,869
Interest rate caps and swaps1,096
 
 1,096
 
Total assets$1,111,909
 $
 $1,109,040
 $2,869
Swaps$1,096
 $
 $1,096
 $
Total liabilities$1,096
 $
 $1,096
 $
 

109113

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


A summary of assets and liabilities at September 30, 20112013 measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis were asis the follows:
 
 
Fair Value
Measurements
at
September 30,
2011
 Quoted Prices in Active markets for Identical Assets Level 1 Significant Other Observable Inputs Level 2 Significant Unobservable Inputs Level 3
Investment securities available for sale:       
Mortgage-backed securities-residential       
Fannie Mae$139,991
 $
 $139,991
 $
Freddie Mac100,675
 
 100,675
 
Ginnie Mae5,180
 
 5,180
 
CMO/Other MBS77,561
 
 77,561
 
Privately issued collateralized mortgage obligation4,851
 
 
 4,851
 328,258
 
 323,407
 4,851
Investment securities       
Federal agencies204,648
 
 204,648
 
Corporate debt securities17,062
 
 17,062
 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions188,684
 
 188,684
 
Equities1,192
 
 1,192
 
Total investment securities available for sale411,586
 
 411,586
 
Total available for sale securities739,844
 
 734,993
 4,851
Interest rate caps and swaps1,180
 
 1,180
 
Total assets$741,024
 $
 $736,173
 $4,851
Swaps$1,114
 $
 $1,114
 $
Total Liabilities$1,114
 $
 $1,114
 $


110

PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The changes in Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized as follows for the period ending September 30, 2012:
 Fair Value Measurement September 30, 2012 Using significant Unobservable Inputs Level 3
Private Label CMO Available for Sale 
Balance at September 30, 2009$10,411
Pay downs(1,946)
(Amortization) and accretion, net49
Change in fair value380
Loss recognized on sale(186)
Sale(2,712)
Balance at September 30, 20105,996
Pay downs(908)
(Amortization) and accretion, net1
Change in fair value(75)
Loss recognized on sale(163)
Balance at September 30, 20114,851
Pay downs(675)
(Amortization) and accretion, net15
Credit loss write down (OTTI)(47)
Change in fair value486
Balance at September 30, 2012$4,630

Changes in fair value are included as part of net unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities available for sale net of related tax expense on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).
 September 30, 2013
 Fair value Level 1 inputs Level 2 inputs Level 3 inputs
Available for sale securities:       
Residential MBS:       
Agency-backed$282,529
 $
 $282,529
 $
CMO/Other MBS163,041
 
 163,041
 
Privately issued CMOs3,613
 
 
 3,613
Total residential MBS449,183
 
 445,570
 3,613
Investment securities       
Federal agencies261,547
 
 261,547
 
Corporate114,933
 
 114,933
 
State and municipal128,730
 
 128,730
 
Total investment securities available for sale505,210
 
 505,210
 
Total available for sale securities954,393
 
 950,780
 3,613
Interest rate caps and swaps997
 
 997
 
Total assets$955,390
 $
 $951,777
 $3,613
Swaps$997
 $
 $997
 $
Total liabilities$997
 $
 $997
 $

The following categories of financial assets are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis, but are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances:circumstances.

Loans Held for Sale and Impaired Loans
Mortgage loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or fair value as determined by outstanding commitments from investors. Fair value of loans held for sale is determined using quoted prices for similar assets (Level 2)2 inputs).


111

PROVIDENT NEW YORK BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


MortgageWhen mortgage loans held for sale are generally sold with servicing rights retained. Theretained, the carrying value of mortgage loans sold is reduced by the amount allocated to the value of the servicing rightrights, which is equal to its fair value. Gains and losses on sales of mortgage loans are based on the difference between the selling price and the carrying value of the related loan sold.

The Company may record nonrecurring adjustments to the carrying value of loans based on fair value measurements for partial charge-offs of the uncollectible portions of these loans. NonrecurringThese adjustments also include certain impairment amounts for collateral dependent loans calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 310 – Receivables, when establishing the allowance for loan losses. SuchImpairment amounts are generally based on the fair value of the underlying collateral supporting the loan and, as a result, the carrying value of the loan less the calculated valuationimpairment amount applicable to that loan does not necessarily represent the fair value of the loan. Real estate collateral is valued using independent appraisals or other indications of value based uponon recent comparable sales of similar properties or assumptions generally observable by market participants. AnyHowever, due to the substantial judgment applied and limited volume of activity as compared to other assets, fair value adjustments for loans categorized here are classified asis based on Level 3.3 inputs. Estimates of fair value used for other collateral supporting commercial loans generally are based on assumptions not observable in the market place and therefore such valuations have been classified asare also based on Level 3.3 inputs. Impaired loans are evaluated on at least a quarterly basis for additional impairment and their carrying values are adjusted as needed. Loans subject to nonrecurringnon-recurring fair value measurements were $50,07836,208 and $51,15535,228 which(which equals the carrying value less the allowance for loan losses allocated to these loansloans) at September 30, 20122014 and 2011,2013, respectively. Loans subject to nonrecurring fair value measurements have been transferred from Level 2 to Level 3 as of September 30, 2010. Changes in fair value recognized onin provisions on loans held by the Company were $5,088905 and $9,4922,726 for the twelve months ended September 30, 20122014 and 2011,2013, respectively.

When valuing impaired loans that are collateral dependent, the Company charges offcharges-off the difference between the recorded investment in the loan and the discounted appraisalappraised value, which is generally less than 12 months old. A discount for estimated costs to dispose of the asset is used when evaluating the impaired loan.  These discounts range from 7.0% to 13.0% for ELOCs and homeowners and 12.0% to 22.0% for commercial mortgages and ADC loans.  Nearly all of our impaired loans are considered collateral dependent. 
A summary of impaired loans at September 30, 2012 measured at estimated fair value on a nonrecurring basis were as follows:
 
Fair Value
Measurements
at
September 30,
2012
 
Quoted Prices in
Active  Markets for
Identical Assets
Level 1
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
Level 2
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
Level 3
Real estate — residential mortgage$8,628
 $
 $
 $8,628
Real estate — commercial mortgage6,537
 
 
 6,537
Commercial business loans95
 
 
 95
Acquisition, development and construction8,232
 
 
 8,232
Consumer loans1,215
 
 
 1,215
Total impaired loans with specific allowance allocations$24,707
 $
 $
 $24,707

A summary of impaired loans at September 30, 2011 measured at estimated fair value on a nonrecurring basis were as follows:

 Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2011 
Quoted Prices in
Active  Markets for
Identical Assets
Level 1
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
Level 2
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
Level 3
Real estate—residential mortgage$6,469
 $
 $
 $6,469
Real estate—commercial mortgage3,741
 
 
 3,741
Commercial business loans (CBL)2,119
 
 
 2,119
Acquisition, development and construction2,126
 
 
 2,126
Consumer loans569
 
 
 569
Total impaired loans with specific allowance allocations$15,024
 $
 $
 $15,024

112114

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


A summary of impaired loans at September 30, 2014 measured at estimated fair value on a non-recurring basis is the following:
 September 30, 2014
 Fair value Level 1 inputs Level 2 inputs Level 3 inputs
Commercial real estate1,463
 
 
 1,463
Acquisition, development and construction2,173
 
 
 2,173
Total impaired loans measured at fair value$3,636
 $
 $
 $3,636

A summary of impaired loans at September 30, 2013 measured at estimated fair value on a non-recurring basis is the following:
 September 30, 2013
 Fair value Level 1 inputs Level 2 inputs Level 3 inputs
Commercial real estate3,672
 
 
 3,672
Commercial & industrial500
 
 
 500
Acquisition, development and construction1,839
 
 
 1,839
Consumer2
 
 
 2
Total impaired loans measured at fair value$6,013
 $
 $
 $6,013
Mortgage servicing rights

Servicing Rights
When mortgage loans are sold with servicing retained, servicing rights are initially recorded at fair value with the income statement effect recorded in gainsnet gain on sales of loans. 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 income.

The Company utilizes the amortization method to subsequently measure the carrying value of its servicing asset.rights. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 860-860 - Transfers and Servicing, the Company must record impairment charges on a nonrecurringnon-recurring basis, when the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value. To estimate the fair value of servicing rights, the Company utilizes a third party vendor,third-party, which on a quarterly basis, considers the market prices for similar assets and the present value of expected future cash flows associated with the servicing rights. Assumptions utilized include estimates of the cost of servicing, loan default rates, an appropriate discount rate and prepayment speeds. The determination of fair value of servicing rights for impairment purposes is considered arelies upon Level 3 valuation.inputs. The fair value of mortgage servicing rights aat September 30, 20122014 and 20112013 were $1,6241,526 and $1,456 thousand1,978, respectively. Changes in fair value of mortgage servicing rights, which required an impairment charge and were subsequently recognized in income, as of September 30, 2012 and 2011 respectively, were $156 and $0, respectively. These amounts are considered immaterial for any previous periods.

Assets takenTaken in foreclosureForeclosure of defaulted loansDefaulted Loans
Assets taken in foreclosure of defaulted loans are initially recorded at fair value less costs to sell when acquired, which establishes thea new cost basis. These loansassets are subsequently accounted for at the lower of cost or fair value less costs to sell and are primarily comprised of commercial and residential real estate property and upon initial recognition, wereare re-measured and reported at fair value through a charge-off to the allowance for loan losses based uponon the fair value of the foreclosed asset. The fair value is generally determined using appraisals or other indications of value based on recent comparable sales of similar properties or assumptions generally observable in the market place. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the independent appraisers to adjust for differences between comparable sales and income data available. Such adjustments have generally been classified asThe fair value is derived using Level 3.3 inputs. Appraisals are reviewed by our credit department, our external loan review consultant and verified by the Chief Credit Officer and/or Chief Risk Officer.officers in our credit administration area. Assets taken in foreclosure of defaulted loans subject to nonrecurringnon-recurring fair value measurement were $6,4037,580 and $5,3916,022 at September 30, 20122014 and 2011.2013, respectively. There were write-downs of $1,098224 and $8691,978 related to changes in fair value recognized through income for those foreclosed assets held by the Company during the twelve months ending September 30, 20122014 and 2011,2013, respectively.

Assets taken in foreclosure of loans of $5,828 were transferred between Level 2 and Level 3 as of March 31, 2012. The valuation of these properties involves judgments of the individual appraisers as well as adjustments for differences due to the availability of data on the properties, which classifies as Level 3.


113115

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


Significant unobservable inputsUnobservable Inputs to levelLevel 3 measurements

Measurements
The following table presents quantitative information about significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurements for Level 3 assets non recurring measurements at September 30, 20122014:

Non Recurring fair value measurements Fair Value Valuation Techniques Unobservable input / assumptions Range
Real estate—residential mortgage (impaired) $8,628
 Appraisal Adjustments for comparable properties 17% - 23%
Real estate—commercial mortgage(impaired) 6,537
 Appraisal Adjustments for comparable properties 22% - 32%
Commercial business loans (impaired) 95
 Appraisal Adjustments for comparable properties 22% - 32%
Acquisition, development and construction (impaired) 8,232
 Appraisal Adjustments for comparable properties 22% - 32%
Consumer loans (impaired) 1,215
 Appraisal Adjustments for comparable properties 17% - 23%
Assets taken in foreclosure:        
Real estate - residential mortgage 832
 Appraisal Adjustments by management to reflect current conditions/selling costs 17% - 23%
Real estate - commercial mortgage 2,482
 Appraisal Adjustments by management to reflect current conditions/selling costs 22% - 32%
Acquisition, development and construction 3,089
 Appraisal Adjustments by management to reflect current conditions/selling costs 22% - 32%
Mortgage servicing rights 1,624
 Third Party Valuation Discount rates 9.25% - 12.75%
    Third Party Valuation Prepayment speeds 100 - 968 ( Weighted average of 224)
Non-recurring fair value measurements Fair value Valuation technique Unobservable input / assumptions 
Range (1) (weighted average)
Impaired loans:        
Commercial real estate $1,463
 Appraisal Adjustments for comparable properties 15.0% - 36.0% (22.0%)
Acquisition, development & construction 2,173
 Appraisal Adjustments for comparable properties 10.0% - 30.0% (13.5%)
Assets taken in foreclosure:        
Residential mortgage 1,301
 Appraisal Adjustments by management to reflect current conditions/selling costs 16.0% - 59.0% (21.6%)
Commercial real estate(2)
 1,910
 Appraisal Adjustments by management to reflect current conditions/selling costs 20.0% - 37.0% (24.8%)
Acquisition, development & construction 1,973
 Appraisal Adjustments by management to reflect current conditions/selling costs 25.0% - 70.0% (30.2%)
Mortgage servicing rights 1,526
 Third-party Discount rates 9.3% - 12.8%
    Third-party Prepayment speeds 100 - 968 (224)
(1) Represents range of discount factors applied to the appraisal to determine fair value. The amounts used for mortgage servicing rights are discounts applied by a third-party valuation provider which the Company believes are appropriate.

(18) (2) Excludes $2,396 of commercial buildings that are former financial centers held for sale. These assets were not taken in foreclosure and their fair value is determined by appraisal, and our internal assessment of the market for this type of real estate in these locations.

Fair Values of Financial Instruments

FASB Codification Topic 825:825 - Financial Instruments, requires disclosure of fair value information for those financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate fair value, whether or not such financial instruments are recognized in the consolidated statements of financial condition for interim and annual periods. Fair value is the amount atfor which a financial instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing parties, other than in a forced sale or liquidation.

Quoted market prices are used to estimate fair values when those prices are available, although active markets do not exist for many types of financial instruments. Fair values for these instruments must be estimated by management using techniques such as discounted cash flow analysis and comparison to similar instruments. These estimates are highly subjective and require judgments regarding significant matters, such as the amount and timing of future cash flows and the selection of discount rates that appropriately reflect market and credit risks. Changes in these judgments often have a material effect on the fair value estimates. Since these estimates are made as of a specific point in time, they are susceptible to material near-term changes. Fair values disclosed in accordance with FASB Topic 825 do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from the sale of a large volume of a particular financial instrument, nor do they reflect possible tax ramifications or estimated transaction costs.


114116

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following is a summary of the carrying amounts and estimated fair valuesvalue of financial assets and liabilities (none of which were held for trading purposes) as of September 30, 20122014:
 
September 30, 2012September 30, 2014
Carrying
amount
 
Quoted Prices in
Active  Markets for
Identical Assets
Level 1
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
Level 2
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
Level 3
Carrying
amount
 

Level 1 inputs
 

Level 2 inputs
 

Level 3 inputs
Financial assets:              
Cash and due from banks$437,982
 $437,982
 $
 $
$177,619
 $177,619
 $
 $
Securities available for sale1,010,872
 
 1,006,242
 4,630
1,110,813
 
 1,110,813
 
Securities held to maturity142,376
 
 146,324
 
579,075
 
 587,838
 
Loans2,091,190
 
 
 2,157,133
Loans, net4,719,826
 
 
 4,758,366
Loans held for sale7,505
 
 7,505
 
17,846
 
 17,846
 
Accrued interest receivable on securities4,011
 
 4,011
 
8,876
 
 8,876
 
Accrued interest receivable on loans6,502
 
 
 6,502
10,791
 
 
 10,791
FHLB of New York stock19,249
 
 19,249
 
FHLB stock and Federal Reserve Bank stock66,085
 
 
 
Interest rate caps and swaps1,096
 
 1,096
 
Financial liabilities:              
Non-maturity deposits(2,723,669) (2,723,669) 
 
(4,860,783) (4,860,783) 
 
Certificates of Deposit(387,482) 
 (389,031) 
FHLB and other borrowings(345,176) 
 (377,906) 
Certificates of deposit(437,871) 
 (438,088) 
FHLB borrowings(795,028) 
 (813,490) 
Other borrowings(45,639) 
 (45,640) 
Senior notes(98,402) 
 (100,482) 
Mortgage escrow funds(11,919) 
 (11,917) 
(4,494) 
 (4,494) 
Accrued interest payable on deposits including escrow(500) 
 (500) 
Accrued interest payable on deposits(320) 
 (320) 
Accrued interest payable on borrowings(1,442) 

 (1,442) 

(2,942) 
 (2,942) 
Interest rate caps and swaps(1,096) 
 (1,096) 

The following is a summary of the carrying amounts and estimated fair valuesvalue of financial assets and liabilities (none of which were held for trading purposes) as of September 30, 2011:
 September 30, 2011
 
Carrying
amount
 
Quoted Prices in
Active  Markets for
Identical Assets
Level 1
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
Level 2
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
Level 3
Financial assets:       
Cash and due from banks$281,512
 $281,512
 $
 $
Securities available for sale739,844
 
 734,993
 4,851
Securities held to maturity110,040
 
 111,272
 
Loans1,675,882
 
 
 1,718,372
Loans held for sale4,176
 
 4,176
 
Accrued interest receivable securities4,446
 
 4,446
 
Accrued interest receivable loans5,458
 

 

 5,458
FHLB of New York stock17,584
 
 17,584
 
Financial liabilities:       
Non-maturity deposits(1,993,036) (1,993,036) 
 
Certificates of Deposit(303,659) 
 (305,940) 
FHLB and other borrowings(375,021) 
 (417,879) 
Mortgage escrow funds(9,701) 
 (9,701) 
Accrued interest payable deposits(425) 
 (425) 
Accrued interest payable borrowings(1,391) 

 (1,391) 
2013:

115117

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 September 30, 2013
 
Carrying
amount
 

Level 1 inputs
 

Level 2 inputs
 

Level 3 inputs
Financial assets:       
Cash and due from banks$113,090
 $113,090
 $
 $
Securities available for sale954,393
 
 950,780
 3,613
Securities held to maturity253,999
 
 250,896
 
Loans, net2,384,021
 
 
 2,422,824
Loans held for sale1,011
 
 1,011
 
Accrued interest receivable on securities4,892
 
 4,892
 
Accrued interest receivable on loans6,805
 
 
 6,805
FHLB stock24,312
 
 
 
Interest rate caps and swaps997
 
 997
 
Financial liabilities:       
Non-maturity deposits(2,694,166) (2,694,166) 
 
Certificates of deposit(268,128) 
 (268,088) 
FHLB and other borrowings(345,176) 
 (488,369) 
Mortgage escrow funds(12,646) 
 (12,644) 
Accrued interest payable on deposits(1,480) 
 (1,480) 
Accrued interest payable on borrowings(1,525) 
 (1,525) 
Interest rate caps and swaps(997) 
 (997) 


The following paragraphs summarize the principal methods and assumptions used by the Company to estimate the fair value of the Company’s financial instruments.instruments:
(a) Securities
Loans
The estimated fair value approximates carrying value for variable-rate loans that reprice frequently and with no significant change in credit risk. The fair value measurements consider observable data that may include dealer quotes, market spreads,of fixed-rate loans and variable-rate loans which reprice on an infrequent basis is estimated by discounting future cash flows live trading levels, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information andusing the bond’s terms and conditions among other items. For certain securities, forcurrent interest rates at which the inputs used by independent pricing services were derived from unobservable market information, the Company evaluated the appropriateness of each price. In accordance with adoption of FASB Codification Topic 820, the Company reviewed the volume and level of activity for its different classes of securities to determine whether transactions were not considered orderly. For these securities, the quoted prices received from independent pricing services may be adjusted, as necessary, to estimate fair value in accordance with FASB Codification Topic 820. If applicable, adjustments to fair value were based on averaging present value cash flow model projections with prices obtained from independent pricing services.
(b) Loans
Fair values were estimated for portfolios ofsimilar loans with similar financial characteristics. Forterms would be made to borrowers of similar credit quality. An overall valuation purposes, the total loan portfolio was segregated into adjustable-rate and fixed-rate categories. Fixed-rate loans were further segmented by type, such as residential mortgage, commercial mortgage, commercial business and consumer loans. Loans were also segmented by maturity dates. Fair values were estimated by discounting scheduled future cash flows through estimated maturity using a discount rate equivalent to the current market rate on loans that are similar with regard to collateral, maturity and the type of borrower. The discounted value of the cash flows was reduced by aadjustment is made for specific credit risk adjustment based on loan categories. Based on the current composition of the Company’s loan portfolio,risks as well as past experience and current economic conditions and trends, the future cash flows were adjusted by prepayment assumptions that shortened the estimated remaining time to maturity and therefore affected the fair value estimates.general portfolio credit risk.
(c)
FHLB of New York Stock and Federal Reserve Bank Stock
The redeemable carrying amount of these securities with limited marketability approximates their fair value.
(d)
Deposits and Mortgage Escrow Funds
In accordance with FASB Codification Topic 825, deposits with no stated maturity (such as savings, demand and money market deposits) wereare assigned fair values equal to the carrying amounts payable on demand. Certificates of deposit and mortgage escrow funds wereare segregated by account type and original term, and fair values wereare estimated by discounting the contractual cash flows. The discount rate for each account grouping wasis equivalent to the current market rates for deposits of similar type and maturity.

These fair values do not include the value of core deposit relationships that comprise a significant portion of the Company’s deposit base.deposits. We believe that the Company’s core deposit relationships provide a relatively stable, low-cost funding source that has a substantial value separate from the deposit balances.
(e)
FHLB Borrowings,
Fair values of FHLB and other borrowings wereand Senior notes
The estimated fair value approximates carrying value for short-term borrowings. The fair value of long-term fixed-rate borrowings is estimated using quoted market prices, if available, or by discounting the contractualfuture cash flows. A discount rate was utilizedflows using current interest rates for each outstanding borrowing equivalent to the then-current rate offered on borrowings of similar type and maturity.financial instruments.
(f)
Other Financial Instruments
The otherOther financial assets and liabilities listed in the preceding table above have estimated fair values that approximate the respective carrying amounts because the instruments are payable on demand or have short-term maturities and present relatively low credit risk and interest rate risk.

118

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The fair values of the Company’s off-balance-sheet financial instruments described in Note 15 (“Off Balance15. “Off-Balance Sheet Financial Instruments”) were estimated based on current market terms (including interest rates and fees), considering the remaining terms of the agreements and the credit worthiness of the counterparties. At September 30, 20122014 and September 30, 2011,2013, the estimated fair valuesvalue of these instruments approximated the related carrying amounts, which were insignificant.not material.

Accrued interest receivable/payable

The carrying amounts of accrued interest approximate fair value and are classified as Level 2.

(18) Recently Issued Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted

Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-14 Classification of Certain Government-Guaranteed Residential Mortgage Loans Upon Foreclosure. This standard provides guidance on how holders of certain government-guaranteed loans (e.g., mortgage loans guaranteed by the FHA or VA) should present such loans upon foreclosure. Specifically, the ASU provides that, upon foreclosure, government-guaranteed loans within the scope of the standard should be derecognized and re-recognized as a separate other receivable (i.e., a receivable from the government entity guaranteeing the loan). The standard does not require any new disclosures about such loans. ASU 2014-14 is effective for the Company for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2014, and is not expected to have a material impact on our balance sheet or results of operations.

ASU 2014-11 Transfers and Servicing (topic 860): Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures. This standard amends the guidance in ASC 860 on accounting for certain repurchase agreements (“repos”). The standard (1) requires entities to account for repurchase-to-maturity transactions as secured borrowings, (2) eliminates accounting guidance on linked repurchase financing transactions, and (3) expands disclosure requirements related to certain transfers of financial assets that are accounted for as sales and certain transfers (specifically, repos, securities lending transactions, and repurchase-to-maturity transactions) that are accounted for as secured borrowings. This standard is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2014 and is not expected to have a material impact on our balance sheet or results of operations.

ASU 2014-09 Revenue From Contracts With Customers. This standard outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The core principle of the revenue model is that an entity recognizes 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. The standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this standard will have on its balance sheet and results of operations.

ASU 2014-04 Receivables - Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors (Subtopic 310-40) - Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage loans upon Foreclosure was issued. This standard provides clarification when a creditor should be considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan such that the loan should be removed from the balance sheet and other real estate owned recognized. These amendments clarify that when an in-substance foreclosure occurs, and a creditor is considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan upon either: (1) the creditor obtaining legal title to the residential real estate property upon completion of a foreclosure, or (2) the borrower is conveying all interest in the residential real estate property to the creditor to satisfy that loan through completion of a deed in lieu of foreclosure or through a similar legal agreement. This standard was effective for the Company on October 1, 2014 and is not expected to have a material impact on our balance sheet or results of operations.

See Note 1. “Basis of Financial Statement Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policy” for a discussion of the adoption of new accounting standards.

(19) Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income

Components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”) were as follows at September 30:

116119

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


(19) Recently Issued Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted
 September 30,
 2014 2013
Net unrealized holding loss on available for sale securities$(4,645) $(19,316)
Related income tax benefit1,974
 7,844
Available for sale securities AOCI, net of tax(2,671) (11,472)
Net unrealized holding loss on securities transferred to held to maturity(8,947) 
Related income tax benefit3,803
 
Securities transferred to held to maturity AOCI, net of tax(5,144) 
Net unrealized holding loss on retirement plans(6,336) (6,496)
Related income tax benefit2,692
 2,638
Retirement plan AOCI, net of tax(3,644) (3,858)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss$(11,459) $(15,330)

Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2012-04- Technical Corrections and Improvements - (Various Topics) has been issued. This standard is effectiveThe following table presents the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive income for the Company October 1, 2012fiscal years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 and is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.2012:

Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2012-06- Business combinations (Topic 805) - Subsequent Accounting for an Indemnification Asset Recognized at the Acquisition Date as a Result
 Net unrealized holding gain (loss) on AFS securities Net unrealized holding (loss) on securities transferred to held to maturity Net unrealized holding gain (loss) on retirement plans Total
Fiscal year ended September 30, 2014       
Balance beginning of the year$(11,472) $
 $(3,858) $(15,330)
Other comprehensive gain (loss) before reclassification9,170
 (5,144) 
 4,026
Amounts reclassified from AOCI(369) 
 214
 (155)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)8,801
 (5,144) 214
 3,871
Balance at end of period$(2,671) $(5,144) $(3,644) $(11,459)
Fiscal year ended September 30, 2013       
Balance beginning of the year$15,066
 $
 $(8,167) $6,899
Other comprehensive (loss) gain before reclassification(22,167) 
 3,041
 (19,126)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI(4,371) 
 1,268
 (3,103)
Total other comprehensive (loss) income(26,538) 
 4,309
 (22,229)
Balance at end of period$(11,472) $
 $(3,858) $(15,330)
Fiscal year ended September 30, 2012       
Balance beginning of the year$13,604
 $
 $(8,468) $5,136
Other comprehensive gain before reclassification7,640
 
 
 7,640
Amounts reclassified from AOCI(6,178) 
 301
 (5,877)
Total other comprehensive income1,462
 $
 301
 1,763
Balance at end of period$15,066
 $
 $(8,167) $6,899


120

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Institution has been issued. This standard was issued to record the subsequent changeStatements
(Dollars in the cash flows expected to be collected on the indemnification asset. This standard is effective for the Company January 1, 2013 and is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.thousands, except per share data)
See Note 1 for a discussion of adoption of new accounting standards.

(20) Condensed Parent Company Financial Statements

Set forth below are the condensed statementsbalance sheets of financial condition of Provident BancorpSterling and the related condensed statements of income and cash flows:
 
Condensed Statements of Financial ConditionSeptember 30,
September 30,
2012 20112014 2013
Assets:      
Cash$6,716
 $6,692
$23,369
 $56,230
Loan receivable from ESOP6,896
 7,338

 6,437
Securities available for sale at fair value809
 837
Investment in Provident Bank467,295
 406,838
Non-bank subsidiaries5,482
 9,082
Investment in Sterling National Bank1,011,973
 517,907
Investment in non-bank subsidiaries3,587
 3,271
Goodwill18,970
 
Trade name20,500
 
Other intangible assets, net917
 
Other assets5,371
 1,680
528
 1,184
Total assets$492,569
 $432,467
$1,079,844
 $585,029
Liabilities$1,447
 $1,333
   
Liabilities:   
Senior Notes$98,402
 $98,033
Other liabilities20,304
 4,130
Total liabilities118,706
 102,163
Stockholders’ equity491,122
 431,134
961,138
 482,866
Total liabilities & stockholders’ equity$492,569
 $432,467
$1,079,844
 $585,029
      

The table  below presents the condensed statement of income:
Year ended September 30,For the year ended September 30,
2012 2011 20102014 2013 2012
Condensed Statements of Income     
Interest income$282
 $304
 $326
$139
 $262
 $282
Dividend income on equity securities30
 31
 28

 22
 30
Dividends from Provident Bank6,000
 10,000
 29,400
Dividends from Sterling National Bank22,500
 
 6,000
Dividends from non-bank subsidiaries500
 500
 400
750
 1,600
 500
Bank owned life insurance income10
 91
 
Other18
 
 10
Interest expense(6,265) (1,431) 
Non-interest expense(1,838) (1,819) (2,262)(5,841) (2,700) (1,838)
Income tax benefit87
 157
 321
3,431
 898
 87
Income before equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries5,071
 9,264
 28,213
Income (loss) before equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries14,732
 (1,349) 5,071
Equity in undistributed (excess distributed) earnings of:          
Provident Bank13,739
 1,498
 (8,257)
Sterling National Bank12,590
 27,174
 13,739
Non-bank subsidiaries1,078
 977
 536
355
 (571) 1,078
Net income$19,888
 $11,739
 $20,492
$27,677
 $25,254
 $19,888
 

117121

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The table below presents the condensed statement of cash flows:
Year ended September 30,For the year ended September 30,
2012 2011 20102014 2013 2012
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows     
Cash flows from operating activities:          
Net income$19,888
 $11,739
 $20,492
$27,677
 $25,254
 $19,888
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:          
Equity in (undistributed) excess distributed earnings of     
Provident Bank(13,739) (1,498) 8,257
Equity in (undistributed) excess distributed earnings of:     
Sterling National Bank(12,590) (27,174) (13,739)
Non-bank subsidiaries(1,078) (977) (536)(355) 571
 (1,078)
(Gain) on redemption of Subordinated Debentures(712) 
 
Other adjustments, net380
 (1,444) (1,077)22,066
 5,259
 380
Net cash provided by operating activities5,451
 7,820
 27,136
36,086
 3,910
 5,451
Cash flows from investing activities:          
Purchase of equity securities, available for sale(105) 
 
Purchase of securities
 
 (105)
Sales of securities103
 
 
1,112
 818
 103
Investment in subsidiaries(44,203) 
 (350)(15,000) (45,000) (44,203)
ESOP loan principal repayments441
 424
 408
6,437
 459
 441
Net cash provided by investing activities(43,764) 424
 58
Net cash (used for) investing activities(7,451) (43,723) (43,764)
Cash flows from financing activities:          
Treasury shares purchased
 (3,810) (13,062)
Capital raise46,000
 
 
Net change in other short-term borrowings(20,659) 
 
Redemption of Subordinated Debentures(26,140) 
 
Senior Notes offering
 97,946
 
Equity capital raise
 
 46,000
Cash dividends paid(9,100) (8,973) (9,216)(17,677) (10,642) (9,100)
Stock option transactions including RRP910
 770
 2,196
2,980
 1,758
 910
Other equity transactions527
 441
 442

 265
 527
Net cash used in financing activities38,337
 (11,572) (19,640)
Net increase (decrease) in cash24
 (3,328) 7,554
Net cash (used for) provided by financing activities(61,496) 89,327
 38,337
Net (decrease) increase in cash(32,861) 49,514
 24
Cash at beginning of year6,692
 10,020
 2,466
56,230
 6,716
 6,692
Cash at end of year$6,716
 $6,692
 $10,020
$23,369
 $56,230
 $6,716

118122

PROVIDENT NEW YORKSTERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)


(21) Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)

The following is a condensed summary of quarterly results of operations for the fiscal years ended 2012September 30, 2014 and 2011:2013:
 
First
quarter
 
Second
quarter
 
Third
quarter
 
Fourth
quarter
First
quarter
 
Second
quarter
 
Third
quarter
 
Fourth
quarter
Year Ended September 30, 2012       
Year ended September 30, 2014       
Interest and dividend income$28,168
 $28,411
 $28,345
 $30,113
$52,711
 $61,325
 $65,761
 $67,109
Interest expense4,930
 4,506
 4,263
 4,874
6,835
 7,297
 7,310
 7,476
Net interest income23,238
 23,905
 24,082
 25,239
45,876
 54,028
 58,451
 59,633
Provision for loan losses1,950
 2,850
 2,312
 3,500
3,000
 4,800
 5,950
 5,350
Non-interest income7,176
 7,971
 7,979
 9,026
9,148
 12,415
 13,471
 12,286
Non-interest expense20,721
 21,290
 21,162
 28,784
72,974
 46,723
 44,904
 43,780
Income before income tax expense7,743
 7,736
 8,587
 1,981
Income tax expense2,026
 2,035
 2,378
 (280)
Net income$5,717
 $5,701
 $6,209
 $2,261
(Loss) income before income tax(20,950) 14,920
 21,068
 22,789
Income tax (benefit) expense(6,948) 4,588
 6,057
 6,452
Net (loss) income$(14,002) $10,332
 $15,011
 $16,337
Earnings per common share:              
Basic$0.15
 $0.15
 $0.17
 $0.06
$(0.20) $0.12
 $0.18
 $0.20
Diluted$0.15
 $0.15
 $0.17
 $0.06
(0.20) 0.12
 0.18
 0.19
Year Ended September 30, 2011       
Year ended September 30, 2013       
Interest and dividend income$29,060
 $27,803
 $27,934
 $27,817
$33,145
 $32,420
 $32,593
 $33,903
Interest expense5,876
 5,292
 5,130
 5,026
5,222
 4,601
 4,276
 5,795
Net interest income23,184
 22,511
 22,804
 22,791
27,923
 27,819
 28,317
 28,108
Provision for loan losses2,100
 2,100
 3,600
 8,784
2,950
 2,600
 3,900
 2,700
Non-interest income9,883
 5,795
 5,217
 9,056
7,659
 6,852
 6,581
 6,600
Non-interest expense21,269
 21,791
 22,669
 24,382
22,546
 23,339
 21,789
 23,367
Income before income tax expense9,698
 4,415
 1,752
 (1,319)
Income before income tax10,086
 8,732
 9,209
 8,641
Income tax expense2,978
 842
 (187) (826)3,066
 2,203
 2,833
 3,312
Net income$6,720
 $3,573
 $1,939
 $(493)$7,020
 $6,529
 $6,376
 $5,329
Earnings per common share:              
Basic$0.18
 $0.10
 $0.05
 $(0.01)$0.16
 $0.15
 $0.15
 $0.12
Diluted$0.18
 $0.10
 $0.05
 $(0.01)0.16
 0.15
 0.15
 0.12

The Company incurred a net loss in the first fiscal quarter of 2014 due mainly to charges and asset write-downs associated with the Merger. The Company recognized charges of $22.2 million for asset write-downs, retention and severance compensation, a write-off of the naming rights to remaining book value of the Provident Bank Ballpark, all of which are included in other non-interest income on the income statement. The charge for asset write-downs was based on the Company’s intent to consolidate several office locations and financial centers. The Company recognized $9.1 million of Merger-related expenses, which included professional advisory fees, legal fees, a portion of change-in-control payments to Legacy Sterling executive officers, costs associated with changing signage at various office and financial center locations and other Merger-related items. In addition, the Company incurred a $2.7 million charge for the settlement of a portion of the Legacy Provident pension plan in December 2013.

(22) Subsequent Events (Unaudited)

On November 5, 2014, the Company announced it had entered into a definitive merger agreement with Hudson Valley Holding Corp. (NYSE: HVB). In the merger, which is a stock-for-stock transaction valued at approximately $539,234 based on the closing price of Sterling common stock on November 4, 2014, Hudson Valley Holding Corp. shareholders will receive a fixed ratio of 1.92 shares of Sterling common stock for each share of Hudson Valley Holding Corp. common stock. Upon closing, Sterling shareholders will own approximately 69% of stock in the combined company and Hudson Valley Holding Corp. shareholders will own approximately 31%. On a pro forma combined basis, for the twelve months ended September 30, 2014, the companies had revenue of $363,217 and $21,962 in

123

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

net income. Upon completion of the merger the combined company is expected to have $10,703,764 in assets, $6,551,482 in gross loans, and deposits of $8,071,799. The transaction, which has been approved by the boards of directors of both companies, is expected to close in the second calendar quarter of 2015. The transaction is subject to approval by shareholders from both companies, regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions.

The Company has engaged an independent third-party to assist management in estimating the fair value of the majority of the assets acquired and liabilities to be assumed. The Company will file a Current Report on Form 8-K (or an amendment to a prior report) no later than January 15, 2015 that will include historical and pro forma information regarding Hudson Valley Holding Corp. and the Company which is required in connection with the Merger.


119124





ITEM 9.Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
Not Applicable.
ITEM 9A.Controls and Procedures

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of September 30, 2012,2014, under the supervision and with the participation of Provident Bancorp'sSterling Bancorp’s Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), management has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company'sCompany’s disclosure controls and procedures. As discussed below,Based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level in timely alerting them to material information required to be recorded, processed, summarized and reported in Sterling Bancorp’s periodic SEC reports.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the year ended September 30, 2014 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

(b) Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The management identified two deficienciesof Sterling Bancorp (the “Company”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. The Company’s system of internal controls is designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management and board of directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. All internal control systems have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. 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. Management assessed the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012 that it considers to be material weaknesses. Accordingly, the CEO and CFO concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were not effective at September 30, 2012.
Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting (see “Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting”)
Provident Bancorp's management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)2014. Management'sThis assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting is expressed at the level of reasonable assurance because a control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, but not absolute, assurance that the control system's objectives will be met. Under the supervision and with the participation of the management of Provident Bancorp, including its CEO and CFO, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012was based on criteria established in the framework in2013 Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission which is also referred to as “COSO.”(COSO). Based on this assessment, we have concluded that, evaluation, management identifiedas of September 30, 2014, the following two deficiencies inCompany’s internal control over financial reporting is effective.

The effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012 that management considers to be material weaknesses:

1.
The Company did not maintain effective controls to ensure the accuracy of the provision for income taxes or deferred taxes. Specifically, this control deficiency was the result of inadequate staffing and technical expertise in key positions related to accounting for provision for income taxes and deferred income taxes.
2.
The Company did not maintain effective controls to ensure that pension accounting matters were properly recorded and presented on the Balance Sheet or the Statement of Other Comprehensive Income.
Based on its identification of the material weakness described above, management concluded that, as of September 30, 2012, the Company's internal control over financial control did not meet the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting and thus was not effective.
The effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 20122014 has been audited by Crowe Horwath LLP, as stated in their report which is included elsewhere herein.
There were no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting during the fourth fiscal quarter of 2012 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company's internal control over financial reporting. However, as a result of the deficiencies described above and in the Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, management is taking steps to enhance the Company's control environment.


ITEM 9B.Other Information
Not applicable.

120125





PART III
ITEM 10.Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance
The Proposal I — Election“Election of Directors” and “Section 169(a)16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” sections of ProvidentSterling Bancorp’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in February 20132015 (the “Proxy Statement”) is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 11.Executive Compensation
The Proposal I — Election“Election of Directors” section of the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 12.Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
ProvidentSterling Bancorp does not have any equity compensation programs that were not approved by stockholders, other than its employee stock ownership plan.
Set forth below is certain information as of September 30, 2012,2014, regarding equity compensation that has been approved by stockholders.
 
Equity compensation plans
approved by stockholders
Number of securities
to be issued upon
exercise of outstanding
options and rights
 
Weighted average
Exercise  price
 
Number of securities
remaining available
for issuance under  plan
Number of securities
to be issued upon
exercise of outstanding
options and rights
 
Weighted average
Exercise  price (1)
 
Number of securities
remaining available
for issuance under plan
Stock Option Plans1,972,480
 $11.04
 2,749,300
1,660,333
 $10.55
 3,350,761
Recognition and Retention Plan (1)
97,817
 N/A
 2,120
Total (2)
2,070,297
 11.04
 2,751,420
 

(1)Represents shares that have been granted but have not yet vested.
(2)Weighted average exercise price represents Stock Option PlanPlans only, since RRPrestricted shares have no exercise price.
The “ProposalProposal I — Election“Election of Directors” section of the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 13.Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence
The “Transactions with Certain Related Persons” section of the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 14.Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The Proposal III - Ratification“Ratification of appointmentAppointment of “IndependentIndependent Registered Public Accounting Firm” section of the proxy statementProxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

121126





PART IV
ITEM 15.Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
(1)Financial Statements






ITEM 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
(1)    Financial Statements
The financial statements filed in Item 8 of this Form 10-K are as follows:
(A)Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Financial Statements
(B)Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of September 30, 2012 and 2011
(C)Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010
(D)Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010
(E)Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010
(F)Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(G)Financial Statement Schedules
(A)Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Financial Statements
(B)Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2014 and 2013
(C)Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012
(D)Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012
(E)Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012
(F)Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(G)Financial Statement Schedules
(2)    All financial statement schedules have been omitted as the required information is inapplicable or has been included in
the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
(3)Exhibits

(3)    Exhibits
2.1
Purchase Agreement 1
and Plan of Merger, dated as of November 4, 2014, by and between Sterling Bancorp and Hudson Valley Holding Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 7, 2014).
3.1
Certificate of Incorporation of Provident Bancorp2
the Company, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 1, 2013).
3.2
Bylaws of Provident Bancorp,the Company, as amended 3
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 1, 2013).
4.1
Form of Common Stock Certificate of the Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 1, 2013).
4.2Form of Corporate Governance Agreement 4(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 7, 2012).
4.3Pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii)(A) of Regulation S-K, no instrument which defines the holders of long-term debt of the Company or any of its consolidated subsidiaries is filed herewith. Pursuant to this regulation, the Company hereby agrees to furnish a copy of any such instrument to the Commission upon request.
10.1
Employment Agreement, with Daniel Rothstein5*
10.3
Provident Amended and Restated 1995 Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan 6*
10.4
Provident 2005 Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan 7*
10.5
Provident Bank 2000 Stock Option Plan 8*
10.7
Separation Agreement among Provident New York Bancorp, Provident Bank and Paul A. Maisch9*
10.8
Provident Bancorp, Inc. 2004 Stock Incentive Plan10*
10.9
Formdated as of Separation Agreement between Provident New York Bancorp, Provident Bank and Richard O. Jones 11*
10.10
Employment AgreementJune 20, 2011, with Jack L. Kopnisky12*
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 21, 2011).*
10.10.110.2
Form of Non-Renewal Notice of Employment Agreement13*
10.10.2
Form of Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated as of November 26, 2012, with Jack L. Kopnisky14*
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 26, 2012).*
10.1110.3
Amendment No. 2 to Employment Agreement, dated as of April 3, 2013, with David Bagatelle(Jack L. Kopnisky (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Amendment No. 1 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed herewith) on April 9, 2013).*
10.11.110.4Employment Agreement, dated as of November 1, 2013, with Luis Massiani (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 4, 2013).*
10.5Form of Employment Agreement, dated as of November 22, 2011, with Rodney Whitwell (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on December 14, 2012).*
10.6
Form of Reinstated Employment Agreement, with David Bagatelle15*
10.12
Employment Agreement among Provident New York Bancorp, Provident Bank and Stephen V. Masterson 16*
10.12.1
Separation Agreement among Provident New York Bancorp, Provident Bank and Stephen V. Masterson 17*
10.13
Formdated as of Stock Option Agreement between Provident New York Bancorp and Jack L. Kopnisky (grant date July 6, 2011) 18*
10.14
Form of Restricted Stock Award Notice between Provident New York Bancorp and Jack L. Kopnisky (grant date July 6, 2011) 19*
10.15
Form of Performance-based Restricted Stock Award Notice between Provident New York Bancorp and Jack L. Kopnisky (grant date July 6,2011) 20*
10.16
Separation Agreement between Provident New York Bancorp, Provident Bank, and Stephen G. Dormer 21
10.17
Provident New York BancorpNovember 26, 2012, Stock Incentive Plan 22
10.18
Provident Short-term Incentive Plan 23*
10.19
Employment Agreement with James R. Peoples (filed herewith)
10.19.1
Form of Amendment to Employment Agreement with James R. Peoples 24*
10.20
Employment Agreement with Rodney Whitwell
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed herewith)on November 27, 2012).*

122127





10.20.110.7
Reinstated Employment Agreement, dated as of November 1, 2013, with Rodney Whitwell 25*
David S. Bagatelle (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 4, 2013).*
10.8Amendment No. 1 to Employment Agreement, dated as of September 23, 2014, with David S. Bagatelle (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 25, 2014).*
10.9Employment Agreement, dated as of November 1, 2013, with James R. Peoples (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 4, 2013).*
10.10Employment Agreement dated as of April 3, 2013, with Michael Bizenov* (filed herewith)
10.11Employment Agreement dated as of April 3, 2013, with Howard M. Applebaum* (filed herewith)
10.12Services and Covenant Agreement, dated as of April 3, 2013, by and between the Company and Louis J. Cappelli (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 1, 2013).*
10.13Services and Covenant Agreement, dated as of April 3, 2013, by and between the Company and John C. Millman (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 1, 2013).*
10.14Retention Award Letter, dated as of May 13, 2013, with Daniel G. Rothstein (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 14, 2013).*
10.15Provident Bank Amended and Restated 1995 Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 11, 2008 (File No. 0-25233)).*
10.16Provident Bank 2005 Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 11, 2008 (File No. 0-25233)).*
10.17Provident Bank 2000 Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company’s Proxy Statement filed on January 18, 2000 (File No. 0-25233)).*
10.18Provident Bancorp, Inc. 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company’s Proxy Statement filed on January 19, 2005 (File No. 0-25233)).*
10.19Form of Stock Option Agreement, dated as of July 6, 2011, between the Company and Jack L. Kopnisky (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 9, 2011).*
10.20Form of Restricted Stock Award Notice, dated as of July 6, 2011, between the Company and Jack L. Kopnisky (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 9, 2011)).*
10.21Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock Award Notice, dated as of July 6, 2011, between the Company and Jack L. Kopnisky (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 9, 2011).*
10.22Provident Short-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 1, 2011).*
10.23Sterling Bancorp 2014 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company’s Proxy Statement for the 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, filed on January 10, 2014).*
10.24Sterling Bancorp Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10 to Legacy Sterling’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2004 (File No. 1-05273)).*
10.25Form of Sterling Bancorp 2013 Employment Inducement Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Post Effective Amendment on Form S-8 to Form S-4 filed on November 1, 2013).*
10.26Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement Pursuant to the Provident New York Bancorp 2012 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 1, 2013).*
10.27Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement Pursuant to the Provident New York Bancorp 2012 Stock Incentive Plan* (filed herewith)
10.28Form of Stock Option Award Agreement Pursuant to the Provident New York Bancorp 2012 Stock Incentive Plan* (filed herewith)
10.29Form of Performance-Based Stock Award Agreement Pursuant to the Provident New York Bancorp 2012 Stock Incentive Plan* (filed herewith)
10.30Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement Pursuant to the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan* (filed herewith)
10.31Form of Stock Option Award Agreement Pursuant to the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan* (filed herewith)
10.32Form of Performance-Based Stock Award Agreement Pursuant to the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan* (filed herewith)
21
Subsidiaries of Registrant (filed(filed herewith)

128





23
Consent of Crowe Horwath LLP (filed(filed herewith)
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed(filed herewith)
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed(filed herewith)
32
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as amended by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed(filed herewith)
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document32 (filed herewith)
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document32 (filed herewith)
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document32 (filed herewith)
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document32 (filed herewith)
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document32 (filed herewith)
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document32 (filed herewith)



1Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233) filed with the Commission on August 7, 2012
2Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-108795), originally filed with the Commission on September 15, 2003.
3Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on October 31, 2012.
4Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233) filed with the Commission on August 7, 2012.
5Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on July 2, 2012.
6Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on August 11, 2008
7Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on August 11, 2008
8Incorporated by reference to Appendix A of the Proxy Statement for the 2000 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Provident Bancorp Inc., (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on January 18, 2000.
9Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233) filed with the Commission on January 10, 2012.
10Incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Proxy Statement for the 2005 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Provident Bancorp Inc., (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on January 19, 2005.
11Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233) filed with the Commission on August 24, 2012.
12Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on June 21, 2011.
13Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 of the Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 0-25233) filed with the Commission on December 13, 2011.
14Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on November 27, 2012.
15Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on November 27, 2012.
16Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on January 10, 2012.
17Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on November 27, 2012.
18Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on August 9, 2011.

123


19Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on August 9, 2011.
20Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on August 9, 2011.
21Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233) filed with the Commission on October 13, 2011.
22Incorporated by reference to Appendix A of the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2012 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, filed on January 6, 2012
23Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on November 1, 2011.
24Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on November 27, 2012.
25Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 0-25233), filed with the Commission on November 27, 2012.
32In accordance with Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, these interactive data files are deemed “not filed” for purposes of section 18 of the exchange Act, and otherwise are not subject to liability under that section.
**    Indicates management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.





124129





SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Provident New YorkSterling Bancorp has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, there unto duly authorized.
Provident New YorkSterling Bancorp
 
Date:December 14, 2012November 28, 2014By:    
/s/ Jack L. Kopnisky
   
Jack L. Kopnisky
   
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer)
Pursuant to the requirements 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/ Jack L. Kopnisky
By:/s/ Stephen MastersonLuis Massiani
 Jack L. Kopnisky
 Stephen MastersonLuis Massiani
 President, Chief Executive Officer and
 Executive Vice President
 Director
 Chief Financial Officer
 Principal Executive Officer
Principal Financial Officer
Date:  November 28, 2014 Principal Accounting Officer
Date: December 14, 2012
Principal Financial Officer
  
Date:  December 14, 2012November 28, 2014
     
By:/s/William F. Helmer Louis J. Cappelli
By:/s/ Dennis L. Coyle
 William F. Helmer
Louis J. Cappelli
 Dennis L. Coyle
 Chairman of the Board
of Directors
 Vice Chairman
Date:  December 14, 2012November 28, 2014
Date: December 14, 2012
 
          
By:/s/ Navy DjonovicRobert Abrams
By:
/s/ Burt SteinbergJames F. Deutsch
By:
/s/ Thomas F. Jauntig, Jr.Navy E. Djonovic
 Navy Djonovic
Robert Abrams
 
Burt Steinberg
 
James F. Deutsch
Thomas F. Jauntig, Jr.Navy E. Djonovic
 Director
 
Director
 
Director
Date:  December 14, 2012November 28, 2014
Date:  
December 14, 2012November 28, 2014
Date:  
December 14, 2012November 28, 2014
          
By:/s/ Fernando FerrerBy:/s/ William F. HelmerBy:/s/ Thomas G. Kahn
By:
/s/ R. Michael Kennedy
By:
/s/ Victoria Kossover
 Thomas G. Kahn

R. Michael Kennedy

Victoria Kossover
Director

Director

Director
Date:December 14, 2012
Date:
December 14, 2012
Date:
December 14, 2012
Fernando Ferrer   William F. Helmer   
By:/s/ Donald T. McNelis
By:
/s/ Carl Rosenstock
By:
/s/ George Strayton
Donald T. McNelis

Carl Rosenstock

George StraytonThomas G. Kahn
 Director
 
Director
 
Director
Date:December 14, 2012November 28, 2014
Date:
December 14, 2012November 28, 2014
Date:
December 14, 2012November 28, 2014
          
By:/s/ James F. DeutschB. Klein By:
/s/ Robert W. LazarBy:/s/ John C. Millman
James B. KleinRobert W. LazarJohn C. Millman
DirectorDirectorDirector
Date:November 28, 2014Date:November 28, 2014Date:November 28, 2014
By:/s/ Richard O'TooleO’Toole
By:/s/ Burt Steinberg   
 James F. DeutschRichard O’Toole  
Richard O'TooleBurt Steinberg
   
 Director  
Director
   
Date:December 14, 2012November 28, 2014 Date:
December 14, 2012November 28, 2014
   

125130