0000090498 sfnc:AcquiredLoansMember sfnc:FinancingReceivables30To89DaysPastDueMember 2019-12-31


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C.  20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 20192022
OR
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from _____ to _____

Commission file number 000-06253
sfnc-20221231_g1.jpg SIMMONS FIRST NATIONAL CORPORATIONCORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Arkansas71-0407808
(State or other jurisdiction of(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)Identification No.)
501 Main Street71601
Pine Bluff(Zip Code)
Arkansas
(Address of principal executive offices)
(870) (870) 541-1000
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each classTrading Symbol(s)Name of each exchange on which registered
Common stock, par value $0.01 per shareSFNCThe Nasdaq Global Select Market

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 No
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes  No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filerAccelerated filerNon-accelerated filer
Smaller reporting companyEmerging Growth company






If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒

If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12 (b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act.). Yes  No
The aggregate market value of the Registrant’s Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, held by non-affiliates on June 30, 2019,2022, was $2,187,379,555$2,673,944,091 based upon the last trade price as reported on the Nasdaq Global Select Market® of $23.26.$21.26.
The number of shares outstanding of the Registrant’s Common Stock as of February 25, 2020,23, 2023, was 113,281,297.127,153,915.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the Proxy Statement for the 20202023 Annual Meeting of Shareholders of the Registrant to be held on April 23, 2020,18, 2023, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.





Introduction
Simmons First National Corporation, (“Company”) has chosen to combine its Annual Report to Security Holders with its Form 10-K. The Company hopes investors find it useful to have all of this information in a single document.
SIMMONS FIRST NATIONAL CORPORATION
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K

INDEX
 





CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
Certain statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K may not be based on historical facts and should be considered “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements may be identified by reference to a future period(s) or by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “budget,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expect,” “foresee,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “indicate,” “likely,” “target,” “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “positions,” “prospects,” “project,” “predict,” or “potential,” by future conditional verbs such as “will,“could,“would,“may,” “might,” “should,” “could,” “might” or “may,“will,” or “would,” by variations of such words, or by similar expressions. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, those relating to the Company’s future growth, acquisitions and their expected benefits, revenue, expenses, assets, asset quality, profitability, andearnings, accretion, dividends, customer service, lending capacity and lending activity, investment in digital channels, critical accounting policies and estimates, net interest margin, non-interestnoninterest revenue, market conditions related to and the impact of the Company’s stock repurchase program, consumer behavior and liquidity, the Company’s ability to recruit and retain key employees, the adequacy of the allowance for loancredit losses, the effectimpacts of certain new accounting standards on the Company’s financial statements (including, without limitation,COVID-19 pandemic and the Current Expected Credit Losses (“CECL”) methodology and its anticipated effect onability of the provision for credit losses),Company to manage the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, income tax deductions, credit quality, the level of credit losses from lending commitments, net interest revenue, interest rates and interest rate sensitivity, repricing of loans and time deposits, loan loss experience, liquidity, the Company’s expectations regarding actions by the Federal Home Loan Banks (“FHLB”) including with respect to the FHLB’s option to terminate FOTO advances, capital resources, market risk, earnings,plans for investments in (and cash flows from) securities, effect of pending and future litigation (including the results of certain overdraft fee litigation against the Company that is described in this annual report), acquisition strategy and activity, legal and regulatory limitations and compliance, and competition.
 
These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and may not be realized due to a variety of factors, including, without limitation: changes in the Company’s operating, acquisition, or expansion strategy; the effects of future economic conditions (including unemployment levels and slowdowns in economic growth), governmental monetary and fiscal policies (including the policies of the Federal Reserve), as well as legislative and regulatory changes;changes, including in response to the COVID-19 pandemic; the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company’s operations and performance; the ultimate effect of measures the Company takes or has taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic; the pace of recovery when the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and the heightened impact it has on many of the risks described herein and in other reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”); changes in real estate values; changes in interest rates and their effects onrates; changes in liquidity; inflation; changes in the level and composition of deposits, loan demand, and the values of loan collateral, securities and interest sensitive assets and liabilities; changes in the securities markets generally or the price of the Company’s common stock specifically; developments in information technology affecting the financial industry; cyber threats, attacks or events; reliance on third parties for the provision of key services; further changes in accounting principles relating to loan loss recognition; uncertainty and disruption associated with the assumptions, forecasts, models, and methodology used to calculatediscontinued use of the expected impact of CECL on the Company’s financial statements;London Inter-Bank Offered Rate; the costs of evaluating possible acquisitions and the risks inherent in integrating acquisitions; possible adverse rulings, judgements, settlements, and other outcomes of pending or future litigation; market disruptions, including pandemics or significant health hazards, severe weather conditions, natural disasters, terrorist activities, financial crises, political crises, war and other military conflicts (including the ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine) or other major events, or the prospect of these events; the effects of competition from other commercial banks, thrifts, mortgage banking firms, consumer finance companies, credit unions, securities brokerage firms, insurance companies, money market and other mutual funds, and other financial institutions operating in our market area and elsewhere, including institutions operating regionally, nationally, and internationally, together with such competitors offering banking products and services by mail, telephone, computer, and the internet; the failure of assumptions underlying the establishment of reserves for possible loancredit losses, fair value for loans, other real estate owned, and those factors set forth under Item 1A. Risk-Factors“Risk Factors” of this report and other cautionary statements set forth elsewhere in this report. Many of these factors are beyond our ability to predict or control, and actual results could differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements due to these factors and others. In addition, as a result of these and other factors, our past financial performance should not be relied upon as an indication of future performance.
 
We believe the assumptions and expectations that underlie or are reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, based on information available to us on the date hereof. However, given the described uncertainties and risks, we cannot guarantee our future performance or results of operations or whether our future performance will differ materially from the performance reflected in or implied by our forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date hereof, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, and all written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this section.


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PART I
 
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
 
Company Overview
 
Simmons First National Corporation, (“Company”), an Arkansas corporation organized in 1968, is a financial holding company registered under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended. The terms “Company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to the CompanySimmons First National Corporation and, where appropriate, its subsidiaries. The Company is headquartered in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and had total consolidated assets of $21.3$27.5 billion, total consolidated loans of $14.4$16.1 billion, total consolidated deposits of $16.1$22.5 billion and equity capital of $3.0$3.3 billion, each as of December 31, 2019.2022. The Company, through its subsidiaries, provides banking and other financial products and services in markets located in Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas.
 
We seek to build shareholder value by, among other things, focusing on strong asset quality, maintaining strong capital, managing our liquidity position, improving our operational efficiency and opportunistically growing our business, both organically and through mergers with and acquisitions of other financial institutions. Our business philosophy centers on building strong, deep customer relationships through excellent customer service and integrity in our operations. While we have grown in recent years into a regional financial institution and one of the largest bank/financial holding companies headquartered in the State of Arkansas, we continue to emphasize, where practicable, a community-based mindset focused on local associates responding to local banking needs and making business decisions in the markets they serve. Those efforts, though, are buttressed by experienced, centralized support functions in select, critical areas. While we serve a variety of customers and industries, we are not dependent on any single customer or industry.
 
Subsidiary Bank
 
The Company’s lead subsidiary, Simmons Bank (“Simmons Bank” or the “Bank”), is an Arkansas state-chartered bank that has been in operation since 1903. Simmons First Insurance Services, Inc. and Simmons First Insurance Services of TN, LLC are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Simmons Bank and are insurance agencies that offer various lines of personal and corporate insurance coverage to individual and commercial customers.

As a result of the Company’s merger with The Landrum Company (“Landrum”), in October 2019, the Company acquired Landmark Bank, a Missouri state-chartered bank. Landmark Bank operated locations in Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas and merged with and into Simmons Bank on February 14, 2020, with Simmons Bank as the surviving entity, upon completion of the systems conversion.

Simmons Bank provides banking and other financial products and services to individuals and businesses using a network of approximately 251230 financial centers in Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas. Simmons Bank offers commercial banking products and services to business and other corporate customers. Simmons Bank extends loans for a broad range of corporate purposes, including financing commercial real estate, construction of particular properties, commercial and industrial uses, acquisition and equipment financings, and other general corporate needs. Simmons Bank also engages in small business administration (“SBA”) and agricultural finance lending, and it offers corporate credit card products, as well as corporate deposit products and treasury management services.

In addition, Simmons Bank offers a variety of consumer banking products and services, including savings, time, and checking deposit products; ATM and ITM services; internet and mobile banking platforms; overdraft facilities; real estate, home equity, and other consumer loans and lines of credit; consumer credit card products; and safe deposit boxes. Simmons Bank also maintains a networking arrangement with a third-party broker-dealer that offers brokerage services to Simmons Bank customers, as well as a trust department that provides a variety of trust, investment, agency, and custodial services for individual and corporate clients (including, among other things, administration of estates and personal trusts andas well as management of investment accounts).


Additionally, Simmons First Insurance Services, Inc. and Simmons First Insurance Services of TN, LLC are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Simmons Bank and are insurance agencies that offer various lines of personal and corporate insurance coverage to individual and commercial customers.



5


Community, Metro and Corporate Bank Strategy
 
Historically, the Company utilized separately chartered community bank subsidiaries to provide full-service banking products and services across our footprint. During 2014, we consolidated all separately chartered banks into Simmons Bank in order to more effectively meet the increased regulatory burden facing banks, reduce certain operating costs, and more efficiently perform operational duties. AfterTo both effectively compete in and service the charter consolidation,needs of the different types of markets that are now included in our footprint, Simmons Bank now operates using two main groups, a community banking group and a metro banking group, within its geographic footprint. Additionally, Simmons Bank has operated usingestablished a divisional structure based on geography as a wayCorporate Banking Group that consists of certain specialized lending units to continue to maintain a locally-oriented, community-based organization.service the needs of particular types of borrowers. Currently, Simmons Bank has the following six operating divisions, whichBank’s community, metro and corporate banking groups are composed of various community banking groups:
organized as follows:
Community Banking GroupMetro Banking GroupCorporate Banking Group
East Arkansas Community Division
Arkansas Metro Division (Little Rock, Arkansas; Northwest Arkansas)
Structured Real Estate Unit
West Arkansas Community Division
Nashville Metro Division (Nashville, Tennessee)
Commercial Finance Unit
Tennessee Community Division (East Tennessee and West Tennessee)
Memphis Metro Division (Memphis, Tennessee)
Equipment Finance Unit
Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas Community Division (Central Missouri, South Central Missouri, Southwest Missouri, Southeast Oklahoma, Stillwater, Oklahoma, North Texas)
Missouri Metro Division (St. Louis, Missouri; Kansas City, Missouri; Kansas City, Kansas)
Public Sector Banking Unit
Greater Texas Community Division (Houston, North Houston, South Texas, Northeast Texas, College Station, North Central Texas)
Texas Metro Division (Dallas, Texas; Ft. Worth, Texas; North Dallas, Texas; Austin, Texas; San Antonio, Texas)
Participations/Syndications Unit
Western Metro Division (Wichita, Kansas; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Tulsa, Oklahoma)
Community Banking GroupsAsset Based Lending Unit
Arkansas CommunitiesPine Bluff, South Arkansas (Lake Village/El Dorado), North Central Arkansas (Conway), Northeast Arkansas (Jonesboro), East Central Arkansas (Searcy), River Valley (Fort Smith/Russellville) and Hot Springs
Central ArkansasLittle Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area
WesternStillwater, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Southeast Oklahoma, Wichita, and Northwest Arkansas, (Fayetteville/Rogers/Springdale/Bentonville)
TennesseeWest Tennessee (Jackson/Union City), Southwest Tennessee (Memphis), Middle Tennessee (Nashville), and East Tennessee (Knoxville)
MissouriSt. Louis, Kansas City, Central Missouri (Columbia), Southwest Missouri (Springfield), and Southeast Missouri
TexasFort Worth, Dallas, and North DallasMortgage Warehouse Unit
Growth Strategy
 
Over the past 30 years, as we have expanded our markets and services, our growth strategy has evolved and diversified. We have used varying acquisition and internal branching methods to enter key growth markets and increase the size of our footprint.
 
Since 1990, we have completed 1821 whole bank acquisitions, one trust company acquisition, five bank branch deals,acquisitions, one bankruptcy (363) acquisition, four FDIC failed bank acquisitions and four Resolution Trust Corporation failed thrift acquisitions. The following summary provides additional details concerning our more recent acquisition activity during the previous five fiscal years.activity.
 
In 2013, we completed the acquisition of Metropolitan National Bank (“Metropolitan” or “MNB”) from Rogers Bancshares, Inc. (“RBI”). The purchase was completed through an auction of the MNB stock by the U. S. Bankruptcy Court as a part of the Chapter 11 proceeding of RBI. MNB, which was headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas, served central and northwest Arkansas and had total assets of $950 million. Upon completion of the acquisition, MNB and our Rogers, Arkansas chartered bank, Simmons First Bank of Northwest Arkansas were merged into Simmons Bank. As an in-market acquisition, MNB had significant branch overlap with our existing branch footprint. We completed the systems conversion for MNB on March 21, 2014, and simultaneously closed 27 branch locations that had overlapping footprints with other locations.

On August 31, 2014, we completed the acquisition of Delta Trust & Banking Corporation (“Delta Trust”), including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Delta Trust & Bank. Also headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas, Delta Trust had total assets of $420 million. The acquisition further expanded Simmons Bank's presence in south, central and northwest Arkansas and allowed us the opportunity to provide services that had not previously been offered with the addition of Delta Trust's insurance agency and securities brokerage service. We merged Delta Trust & Bank into Simmons Bank and completed the systems conversion on October 24, 2014. At that time, we also closed 4 branch locations with overlapping footprints.

In February 2015, we completed the acquisition of Liberty Bancshares, Inc. (“Liberty”), including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Liberty Bank. Liberty was headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, served southwest Missouri and had total assets of $1.1

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$1.1 billion. The acquisition enhanced Simmons Bank’s presence not only in southwest Missouri, but also in the St. Louis and Kansas City metropolitan areas. The acquisition also allowed us the opportunity to provide services that we had not previously offered in these areas such as trust and securities brokerage services. In addition, Liberty’s expertise in SBA lending enhanced our commercial offerings throughout our geographies. We merged Liberty Bank into Simmons Bank and completed the systems conversion in April 2015.

Also in February 2015, we completed the acquisition of Community First Bancshares, Inc. (“Community First”), including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, First State Bank. Community First was headquartered in Union City, Tennessee, served customers throughout Tennessee, and had total assets of $1.9 billion. The acquisition expanded our footprint into Tennessee and allowed us the opportunity to provide additional services to customers in this area and expand our community banking strategy. In addition, Community First’s expertise in SBA and consumer lending benefited our customers across each region. We merged First State Bank into Simmons Bank and completed the systems conversion in September 2015.

In October 2015, we completed the acquisition of Ozark Trust & Investment Corporation (“Ozark Trust”), including its wholly-owned non-deposit trust company, Trust Company of the Ozarks. Headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, Ozark Trust had over $1 billion in assets under management and provided a wide range of financial services for its clients including investment management, trust services, IRA rollover or transfers, successor trustee services and personal representativesrepresentative and custodial services. As our first acquisition of a fee-only financial firm, Ozark Trust provided a new wealth management capability that cancould be leveraged across the Company’s entire geographic footprint.

In September 2016, we completed the acquisition of Citizens National Bank (“Citizens”), headquartered in Athens, Tennessee. Citizens had total assets of $585 million and strengthened our position in east Tennessee by nine branches. The acquisition expanded our footprint in east Tennessee and allowed us the opportunity to provide additional services to customers in this area and expand our community banking strategy. We merged Citizens into Simmons Bank and completed the systems conversion in October 2016.


In May 2017, we completed the acquisition of Hardeman County Investment Company, Inc. (“Hardeman”), headquartered in Jackson, Tennessee, including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, First South Bank. We acquired approximately $463 million in assets and strengthened our position in the western Tennessee market. We merged First South Bank into Simmons Bank and completed the systems conversion in September 2017. As part of the systems conversion, we consolidated or closed three existing Simmons Bank and two First South Bank branches due to overlapping footprint.

In October 2017, we completed the acquisition of First Texas BHC, Inc. (“First Texas”), headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Southwest Bank. Southwest Bank had total assets of $2.4 billion. This acquisition allowed us to enter the Texas banking markets, and it also strengthened our specialty product offerings in the areas of SBA lending and trust services. The systems conversion was completed in February 2018, at which time Southwest Bank was merged into Simmons Bank.

Also in October 2017, we completed the acquisition of Southwest Bancorp, Inc. (“OKSB”), including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Bank SNB. Headquartered in Stillwater, Oklahoma, OKSB provided us with $2.7 billion in assets, allowed us additional entry into the Oklahoma, Texas and Colorado banking markets, and strengthened our Kansas franchise and our product offerings in the healthcare and real estate industries. The systems conversion was completed in May 2018, at which time Bank SNB was merged into Simmons Bank.

In April 2019, we completed the acquisition of Reliance Bancshares, Inc. (“Reliance”), headquartered in Des Peres, Missouri -part(part of the greater St. Louis metropolitan area,area), including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Reliance Bank. We acquired approximately $1.5 billion in assets and added 22 branches to the Simmons Bank footprint, substantially enhancing our retail presence within the St. Louis market, and entering the state of Illinois for the first time. The systems conversion was completed in April 2019, at which time Reliance Bank was merged into Simmons Bank.

In October 2019, we completed the acquisition of The Landrum Company (“Landrum”), headquartered in Columbia, Missouri, including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Landmark Bank. We acquired approximately $3.4 billion in assets and further strengthened our position in Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas. The systems conversion was completed in February 2020, at which time Landmark Bank merged into Simmons Bank. In connection with the systems conversion, we closed five existing Landmark Bank branches.

In October 2021, we completed the acquisition of Landmark Community Bank (“Landmark”), headquartered in Collierville, Tennessee, as well as the acquisition of Triumph Bancshares, Inc. (“Triumph”), including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Triumph Bank, headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. Landmark had total assets of $968.8 million, while Triumph provided us

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with $847.2 million in assets. These combined acquisitions allowed us to expand our existing footprint in Tennessee and to further enhance our scale in two of our key Tennessee growth markets – Memphis and Nashville. The systems conversions for both Landmark and Triumph Bank were completed in October 2021, at which time Landmark and Triumph Bank were merged into Simmons Bank.

In April 2022, we completed the acquisition of Spirit of Texas Bancshares, Inc. (“Spirit”), headquartered in Conroe, Texas, including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Spirit of Texas Bank SSB (“Spirit Bank”). We acquired approximately $3.1 billion in assets and further strengthened our position in Texas. The systems conversion was completed in April 2022, at which time Spirit Bank merged into Simmons Bank.

Merger and Acquisition Strategy
 
Merger and acquisition activities arehave been an important part of the Company’s growth strategy. We intendWhile we continue to focus our near-termconsider strategic merger and acquisition strategy on traditional acquisitions. Weopportunities if and as they arise, and while we continue to believe that the current economicmarket and industry conditions combined with a more restrictive bank regulatory environment will continue to cause manyvarious financial institutions to seek merger partners in the near-to-intermediate future. Wefuture, in the near term, we are also enhancing our focus on ensuring that we capitalize on organic growth opportunities in many of the markets that we have had the fortune to enter through previous mergers and acquisitions. Through our “Better Bank” initiative, we are also focusing on evaluating and, where appropriate, enhancing our people, processes and systems so that we are able to more effectively and efficiently compete as an organization of the size and scale that we now have achieved.

To the extent that a strategic merger and acquisition opportunity becomes of interest, we believe our community banking philosophy, access to capital and successful merger and acquisition history positionswould position us as a purchaser of choice for a community banksand regional bank seeking a strong partner.
We expect that our target areas for acquisitions will continue to be primarily banks operating in growth markets within our existing footprint of Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas markets. In addition, we will pursue opportunities with financial service companies with specialty lines of business and branch acquisitions within the existing markets as and when they arise.
 
As consolidations continue to unfold in the banking industry, the management of risk is an important consideration in how the Company evaluates and consummates thosethese transactions. The senior management teams of both our parent companythe Company and bankSimmons Bank have had extensive experience during the past 30 years in acquiring banks, branches and deposits and post-acquisition integration of operations. We believe this experience positions us to successfully acquire and integrate banks.banks to the extent a compelling strategic opportunity presents itself.
 
The process of merging or acquiring banking organizations is extremely complex; it requires a great deal of time and effort from both buyer and seller. The business, legal, operational, organizational, accounting, and tax issues all must be addressed if the merger or acquisition is to be successful. Throughout the process, valuation is an important input toaspect of the decision-making process, from initial target analysis through integration of the entities. Merger and acquisition strategies are vitally important in order to derive the maximum benefit out of a potential deal.
 


Strategic reasons with respectconsiderations that can cause an acquirer or a target institution to negotiated community bank mergers and acquisitionsexplore or support a merger or acquisition transaction include, among other things:
 
Potentially retaining the target institution’s senior management and providing them with an appealing level of autonomy post-integration. We intend to continue to pursue negotiated community bank acquisitions, and we believe that our history with respect to such acquisitions has positioned us as an acquirer of choice for community banks.
Encouraging acquired community banks, their boards and their associates to maintain their community involvement, while empowering the banks to offer a broader array of financial products and services. We believe this approach leads to enhanced profitability of the combined franchise after the acquisition.
Taking advantage of future opportunities that can be exploited when the two companies are combined. Companies need to position themselves to take advantage of emerging trends in the marketplace.
Strengthening the bench. One company may have a major weakness (such as poor distribution or service delivery) whereas the other company has some significant strength. By combining the two companies, each company fills in strategic gaps that are essential for long-term survival.
Acquiring human resources and intellectual capital can help improve innovative thinking and development within the Company.
Acquiring a regional or multi-state bank can provide the Company with access to emerging/established markets and/or increased products and services.
Providing additional scale and market share within our existing footprint.

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Loan Risk Assessment

As part of our ongoing risk assessment and analysis, the Company utilizes credit policies and procedures, internal credit expertise and several internal layers of review. The internal layers of ongoing review include Division Presidents, Division and Senior Credit Officers, the Chief Credit Officer and Corporate Credit Officer, Division Loan Committees,Officers, an Agriculture Loan Committee, an Executive Loan Committee, a Senior LoanCredit Committee, and a Directors’ Credit Committee.

Additionally, the Company has an Asset Quality Review Committee comprised of management that meets quarterly to review the adequacy of the allowance for loancredit losses. The Committee reviews the status of past due, non-performing and other impaired loans, reserve ratios, and additional performance indicators for Simmons Bank. The appropriateness of the allowance for loancredit losses is determined based upon the aforementioned performance factors, and provision adjustments are made accordingly.

The Board of Directors reviews the adequacy of its allowance for loancredit losses on a periodic basis giving consideration to past due loans, non-performing loans, other impaired loans, and current economic conditions. Our loan review department monitors loan information monthly. In order to verify the accuracy of the monthly analysis of the allowance for loancredit losses, the loan review department performs a detailed review of loans across each loan product line and all divisions on an annual basis or more often if warranted. Additionally, we have instituted a Special Asset Committee for the purpose of reviewing criticized loans in regard to collateral adequacy, workout strategies and proper reserve allocations.
 
Competition
 
There is significant competition among commercial banks in our various market areas. In addition, we also compete with other providers of financial services, such as savings and loan associations, credit unions, finance companies, securities firms, insurance companies, full service brokerage firms, and discount brokerage firms.firms and fintech companies. Some of our competitors have greater resources and, as such, may have higher lending limits and may offer other services that we do not provide. Some of our competitors operate only in digital channels, which may result in those competitors investing greater resources in information technology and digital product and service delivery without the overhead associated with a branch network. We generally compete on the basis of customer service and responsiveness to customer needs, available loan and deposit products, the rates of interest charged on loans, the rates of interest paid for funds, and the availability and pricing of trust and brokerage services.


Nonbank competitors are increasingly offering products and services that traditionally were bank products. Many of these nonbank competitors are not subject to the same extensive federal regulations that govern bank holding companies and federally insured banks, which may allow them to offer greater lending limits and certain products and services that the Company and its affiliates do not provide.

Principal Offices and Available Information
 
Our principal executive offices are located at 501 Main Street, Pine Bluff, Arkansas 71601, and our telephone number is (870) 541-1000. We also have corporate offices located at 601 E. 3rd Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201. We maintain a website at http://www.simmonsbank.com. On this website under the Investor Relations section, “Investor Relations,” we make our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”)SEC (including our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) available free of charge as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC. In addition, our website contains other news and announcements about the Company and its subsidiaries. Our website and the information contained on, or that can be accessed through, our website are not deemed to be incorporated by reference in, and are not considered part of, this Annual Report.
 
Employees

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Human Capital
 
Our associates are a critical component of our success. Because our business depends on our ability to attract, develop, and retain highly qualified, skilled lending, operations, information technology, and other associates, as well as managers who are experienced and effective at leading their respective departments, we have implemented wide-ranging programs focused on identifying and recruiting new talent, as well as enhancing the skills, qualifications, and satisfaction of our current associate base. In recruiting, we employ a variety of strategies, including, among other things, the use of in-house recruiters, search firms, and employment agencies, designed to attract qualified and diverse candidates. Among other opportunities, we offer student internships and a banker trainee program that provides recent graduates with the opportunity to gain insight into several Company departments. We believe our compensation program, which, in addition to base and incentive compensation, includes health, retirement, and an array of other benefit plans and programs, is competitive within the financial industry, and we periodically review our plans and programs, as well as market surveys, to help ensure that our compensation program is consistent with our level of performance and that we have a current understanding of peer practices.

We provide our associates a variety of professional development opportunities, including participation in industry conferences, instructor-led continuing education and training sessions, as well as online training sessions that focus on industry, regulatory, business, and leadership topics. We offer mentorship opportunities through our “Simmons Sidekick,” “Ambassadors” and “Coaching Cohorts” programs, and we provide tuition reimbursement for associates to attend a higher education facility to obtain bachelor’s and master’s degrees that are relevant to the finance industry and/or their positions within the Company. We seek to promote from within the Company when feasible and have established programs, such as our “Next Generation Leadership Program,” to help develop future leadership talent.

We are committed to maintaining a strong culture that not only engages associates but also serves as a catalyst for growth. Our values-based culture is memorialized in a set of “Culture Cornerstones” that are communicated to all associates and incorporated in various ways throughout our operations. We strive for all six of our Culture Cornerstones - Better Together; Integrity; Passion; High Performance; Pursue Growth; and Build Loyalty - to be reflected in everything we do, including how we interact with each other, how we interact with our customers, and how we interact with our vendors and business partners. Our sixth Culture Cornerstone, Build Loyalty, was added in 2022 to provide a compelling and pervasive customer service operational approach that is designed to produce exceptional internal and external customer experiences. In 2022, we also focused on our Culture Cornerstone of High Performance by implementing extensive new training and programming to support leaders and associates. We are also committed to promoting our associates’ well-being. Our wellness program, “Ultimate You,” assists associates in improving their level of physical, financial, and mental fitness through offerings such as discounted gym memberships, financial literacy training, channels for counseling, and health-focused challenges and contests. Finally, our inclusion program, “We Are Simmons,” celebrates and supports the unique perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds of our associates. We believe these differences help us better serve our customers and make us stronger as a whole. In connection with this program, we have introduced Employee Resource Groups for veterans, women, African Americans, and LGBTQIA+ associates.

As of December 31, 2019,2022, the Company and its subsidiaries had approximately 3,2703,202 full time equivalent employees.associates. None of the employees isour associates are represented by any union or similar groups, and we have not experienced any labor disputes or strikes arising from any such organized labor groups. We consider our relationship with our employeesassociates to be good and strive to operate with an “open door policy” where associate concerns and issues can be discussed anytime directly with leadership or human resources. We have been recognized with “Best Places to Work” awards in several of our markets.


SUPERVISION AND REGULATION
 
The Company
 
The Company, as a bank holding company, is subject to both federal and state regulation. Under federal law, a bank holding company generally must obtain approval from the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (“FRB”) before acquiring ownership or control of the assets or stock of a bank or a bank holding company. Prior to approval of any proposed acquisition, the FRB will review the effect on competition of the proposed acquisition, as well as other regulatory issues.
 
The federal law generally prohibits a bank holding company from directly or indirectly engaging in non-banking activities. This prohibition does not include loan servicing, liquidating activities or other activities so closely related to banking as to be a proper incident thereto. Bank holding companies, including the Company, which have elected to qualify as financial holding companies, are authorized to engage in financial activities. Financial activities include any activity that is financial in nature or any activity that is incidental or complimentary to a financial activity.

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As a financial holding company, we are required to file with the FRB an annual report and such additional information as may be required by law. From time to time, the FRB examines the financial condition of the Company and its subsidiaries. Bank holding companies are not permitted to engage in unsafe and unsound banking practices. The FRB, through civil and criminal sanctions, is authorized to exercise enforcement powers over bank holding companies (including financial holding companies) and non-banking subsidiaries, to limit activities that represent unsafe or unsound practices or constitute violations of law.

Federal law also requires the Company to act as a source of financial and managerial strength for our bank subsidiary and to commit resources to support that subsidiary. This support may be required by federal banking agencies even at times when a bank holding company may not have the resources to provide the support. Further, if the FRB believes that a bank holding company’s activities, assets or affiliates represent a significant risk to the financial safety, soundness or stability of its subsidiary bank, then the FRB could require that bank holding company to terminate the activities, liquidate the assets or divest the affiliates. Federal banking agencies, including the FRB, may require these and other actions in support of a subsidiary bank even if such actions are not in the best interests of the bank holding company or its stockholders.

We are subject to certain laws and regulations of the State of Arkansas applicable to financial and bank holding companies, including examination and supervision by the Arkansas Bank Commissioner. Under Arkansas law, a financial or bank holding company is prohibited from owning more than one subsidiary bank if any subsidiary bank owned by the holding company has been chartered for less than five years and, further, requires the approval of the Arkansas Bank Commissioner for any acquisition of more than 25% of the capital stock of any other bank located in the State of Arkansas. No bank acquisition may be approved if, after such acquisition, the holding company would control, directly or indirectly, banks having 25% of the total bank deposits in the stateState of Arkansas, excluding deposits of other banks and public funds.


Additionally, under federal and state law, acquisitions of the Company’s common stock above certain thresholds or in connection with certain governance rights or business relationships may be subject to certain regulatory restrictions, including prior notice and approval requirements, and investors in the Company’s common stock are responsible for ensuring that they comply with these restrictions to the extent they are applicable.

Federal legislation allows bank holding companies (including financial holding companies) from any state to acquire banks located in any state without regard to state law, provided that the holding company (1) is well capitalized, (2) is well managed, (3) would not control more than 10% of the insured deposits in the United States or more than 30% of the insured deposits in such state, and (4) such bank has been in existence at least five years if so required by the applicable state law.

The principal source of the Company’s liquidity is dividends from Simmons Bank, the payment of which is subject to certain limitations imposed by federal and state laws. The approval of the Arkansas Bank Commissioner is, for instance, required if the total of all dividends declared by an Arkansas state bank in any calendar year exceeds seventy-five percent (75%) of the total of its net profits, as defined, for that year combined with seventy-five percent (75%) of its retained net profits of the preceding year. AtUnder the foregoing dividend restrictions, and while maintaining its “well capitalized” status, at December 31, 2019,2022, Simmons Bank had approximately $160.2 million available for payment of dividendspaid to the Company without prior regulatory approval. This amount isall available dividends. While past dividends are not necessarily indicative of amounts that may be paid or available to be paid in future periods, net profits of Simmons Bank and cash balances at the Company are projected to be sufficient to pay quarterly dividends on the Company’s common stock at current levels and interest and principal on the Company’s debt as well as meet other liquidity needs.

In 2019, final rules were adopted that, among other things, eliminated a prior approval requirement in the Basel III Capital Rules (discussed below) for a bank holding company to repurchase shares of its common stock, provided that the bank holding company is well capitalized both before and after the proposed repurchase, well-managed, and not the subject of any unresolved supervisory issues. However, a bank holding company’s repurchases of shares of its common stock may, in certain circumstances, be subject to approval or notice requirements under other regulations, policies, or supervisory expectations of the bank holding company’s regulators, may be discouraged by regulators in the form of supervisory feedback on the bank holding company’s regulatory capital levels or plan, and must comply with all applicable state and federal corporate and securities laws and regulations.

Subsidiary Bank
 
Simmons Bank is an Arkansas state-chartered bank and a member of the Federal Reserve System through the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. Due to the Company’s typical acquisition process, there may be brief periods of time during which the Company may operate another subsidiary bank that the Company acquired through a merger with a target bank holding company as a separate subsidiary while preparing for the merger and integration of that subsidiary bank into Simmons Bank. However, it is the Company’s intent to generally maintain Simmons Bank as the Company’s sole subsidiary bank.
 

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The lending powers of the subsidiary bank are generally subject to certain restrictions, including the amount which may be loaned to a single borrower. Our subsidiary bank is a member of the FDIC, which provides insurance on deposits of each member bank up to applicable limits by the Deposit Insurance Fund. For this protection, our bank pays a statutory assessment to the FDIC each year.

Furthermore, as a member of the Federal Reserve System, our subsidiary bank is required by law to maintain reserves against its transaction deposits.deposits as required by the FRB. The reserves must be held in cash or with the FRB. Banks are permitted to meet this requirement by maintaining the specified amount as an average balance over a two-week period. The total ofDuring 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the FRB acting pursuant to the Federal Reserve Act reduced the reserve balances was approximately $94.0 millionrequirements to zero until further notice. As a result, as of December 31, 2019.2022, the Company’s reserve balances were zero.

Pursuant to federal laws and regulations, national and state-chartered banks may establish branches in their home states, as well as in other states. Applications to establish branches must be filed with the appropriate primary federal regulator and, where applicable, the bank’s state regulatory authority. As an Arkansas state-chartered bank, our subsidiary bank files branch applications with both the FRB and the Arkansas State Bank Department.

Federal laws and regulations also restrict banks, including our subsidiary bank, from establishing certain tying arrangements. In particular, subject to certain exceptions, banks, including our subsidiary bank, are prohibited from extending credit, leasing or selling property, furnishing services, or varying prices on the condition that the customer obtain an additional product or service from the bank or its affiliates or not obtain services of a competitor of the bank or its affiliates.

Transactions with Affiliates and Insiders

Under federal law, transactions between insured depository institutions and their affiliates are governed by Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act and its implementing regulation, Regulation W. In a bank holding company context, at a minimum, the parent holding company of a bank, and any companies which are controlled by such parent holding company, and financial subsidiaries of the bank, are affiliates of the bank. Generally, Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act are intended to protect insured depository institutions from losses arising from transactions with non-insured affiliates by limiting the extent to which a bank or its subsidiaries may engage in covered transactions with any one affiliate and with all affiliates of the bank in the aggregate, and requiring that such transactions be on terms consistent with safe and sound banking practices.

Further, SectionLoans to executive officers, directors, or any person who directly or indirectly, or acting through or in concert with one or more persons, owns, controls, or has the power to vote more than 10% of any class of voting securities of a bank (“10% Shareholders”), are subject to Sections 22(g) and 22(h) of the Federal Reserve Act and its implementing Regulation O restrictstheir corresponding regulations (Regulation O) and Section 13(k) of the Exchange Act relating to the prohibition on personal loans to directors, executive officers, and principal stockholders (“insiders”). Under Section 22(h), loans to insiders and their related interests may not exceed, togetherexecutives (which exempts financial institutions in compliance with all other outstanding loans to such persons and affiliated entities, the institution’s total capital and surplus. Loans to insiders above specified amounts must receive the prior approvalinsider lending restrictions of a majority of the board of directors. Further, under Section 22(h) of the Federal Reserve Act,Act). Among other things, these loans to insiders must be made on terms substantially the same as offered in comparablethose prevailing on transactions made to other persons,unaffiliated individuals, except that such insiders may receive preferential loans made under a benefit or compensation program that is widely available to the bank's employees and does not give preference to the insider over the employees.employees, and certain extensions of credit to those persons must first be approved in advance by a disinterested majority of the entire Board of Directors. Section 22(h) of the Federal Reserve Act and its implementing regulation, Regulation O, prohibits loans to any directors, executive officers, and principal stockholders and their related interests where the aggregate amount exceeds an amount equal to 15% of an institution’s unimpaired capital and surplus plus an additional 10% of unimpaired capital and surplus in the case of loans that are fully secured by readily marketable collateral, or when the aggregate amount on all of the extensions of credit outstanding to all of these persons would exceed the Bank’s unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus. Section 22(g) of the Federal Reserve Act places additional limitations on loans to executive officers and identifies limited circumstances in which the Bank is permitted to extend credit to executive officers.

As a result, our subsidiary bank is limited in its ability to make extensions of credit to the Company, investing in the stock or other securities of the Company, and engaging in other affiliated financial transactions with the Company.




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Potential Enforcement Action for Bank Holding Companies and Banks
 
Enforcement proceedings seeking civil or criminal sanctions may be instituted against any bank, any financial or bank holding company, any director, officer, employee or agent of the bank or holding company, which is believed by the federal banking agencies to be violating any administrative pronouncement or engaged in unsafe and unsound practices. In more serious cases, enforcement actions may include the issuance of directives to increase capital; the issuance of formal and informal agreements; the imposition of civil monetary penalties; the issuance of a cease and desist order that can be judicially enforced; the issuance of removal and prohibition orders against officers, directors, and other institution-affiliated parties; the termination of a bank’s deposit insurance; the appointment of a conservator or receiver for a bank; and the enforcement of such actions through injunctions or restraining orders based upon a judicial determination that the agency would be harmed if such equitable relief was not granted.
 
Risk-Weighted Capital Requirements for the Company and the Subsidiary Bank
 
Since 1993, banking organizations (including financial holding companies, bank holding companies and banks) were required to meet a minimum ratio of Total Capital to Total Risk-Weighted Assets of 8%, of which at least 4% must be in the form of Tier 1 Capital. A well-capitalized institution was one that had at least a 10% “total risk-based capital” ratio.  
Effective January 1, 2015, the Company and its subsidiary bank became subject to new capital regulations (“Basel III Capital Rules”) adopted by the Federal Reserve in July 2013 establishing a new comprehensive capital framework for U.S. banks. The Basel III Capital Rules substantially revised the risk-based capital requirements applicable to bank holding companies and depository institutions compared to the previous U.S. risk-based capital rules. Full compliance with the Basel III Capital Rules’ requirements was phased in over a multi-year schedule, which was completed inwere fully implemented as of January 1, 2019. For a tabular summary of our risk-weighted capital ratios, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Capital” and Note 23, Stockholders’ Equity, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
The Basel III Capital Rules include a common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets (“CET1”) ratio of 4.5% and a common equity Tier 1 capital conservation buffer of 2.5% of risk-weighted assets. CET1 generally consists of common stock; retained earnings; accumulated other comprehensive incomeincome; and certain minority interests;interests, all subject to applicable regulatory adjustments and deductions. The Company and its subsidiary bank must hold a capital conservation buffer composed of CET1 capital above its minimum risk-based capital requirements.

A banking organization’s qualifying total capital consists of two components: Tier 1 Capital and Tier 2 Capital. Tier 1 Capital is an amount equal to the sum of common stockholders’ equity, hybrid capital instruments (instruments with characteristics of debt and equity) in an amount up to 25% of Tier 1 Capital, certain preferred stock and the minority interest in the equity accounts of consolidated subsidiaries. For bank holding companies and financial holding companies, goodwill (net of any deferred tax liability associated with that goodwill) may not be included in Tier 1 Capital. Identifiable intangible assets may be included in Tier 1 Capital for banking organizations, in accordance with certain further requirements. At least 50% of the banking organization’s total regulatory capital must consist of Tier 1 Capital.
 
Tier 2 Capital is an amount equal to the sum of the qualifying portion of the allowance for loancredit losses, certain preferred stock not included in Tier 1, hybrid capital instruments (instruments with characteristics of debt and equity), certain long-term debt securities and eligible term subordinated debt, in an amount up to 50% of Tier 1 Capital. The eligibility of these items for inclusion as Tier 2 Capital is subject to certain additional requirements and limitations of the federal banking agencies.
 
The Basel III Capital Rules expanded the risk-weighting categories from the previous four Basel I-derived categories (0%, 20%, 50% and 100%) to a much larger and more risk-sensitive number of categories, depending on the nature of the assets, generally ranging from 0% for U.S. government and agency securities, to 600% for certain equity exposures, and resulting in higher risk weights for a variety of asset categories, including many residential mortgages and certain commercial real estate.
 
Accordingly, under the fully-phased in Basel III Capital Rules, the capital standards applicable to the Company include an additional capital conservation buffer of 2.5% of CET1, effectively resulting in minimum ratios inclusive of the capital conservation buffer of (1) CET1 to risk-weighted assets of at least 7%7.0%, (2) Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 8.5%, and (3) Total capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 10.5%.


In August 2020, the FRB, along with the other federal bank regulatory agencies, adopted a final rule that allows the Company and the Bank to phase-in the impact of adopting the Current Expected Credit Losses (or “CECL”) methodology up to two years, with a three-year period to phase out the cumulative benefit to regulatory capital provided during the two-year delay.

Prompt Corrective Action

The Basel III Capital Rules also affected the FDIC’s prompt correction action standards. Those standards seek to address problems associated with undercapitalized financial institutions and provide for five capital categories: well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized, and critically undercapitalized.


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For purposes of prompt corrective action, to be:

well capitalized, a bank must have a total risk based capital ratio of at least 10%, a Tier 1 risk based capital ratio of at least 8%, a CET1 risk based capital ratio of at least 6.5%, and a Tier 1 leverage ratio of at least 5%;
adequately capitalized, a bank must have a total risk based capital ratio of at least 8%, a Tier 1 risk based capital ratio of at least 6%, a CET1 risk based capital ratio of at least 4.5%, and a Tier 1 leverage ratio of at least 4%;
undercapitalized, a bank would have a total risk based capital ratio of less than 8%, a Tier 1 risk based capital ratio of less than 6%, a CET1 risk based capital ratio of less than 4.5%, and a Tier 1 leverage ratio of less than 4%;
significantly undercapitalized, a bank would have a total risk based capital ratio of less than 6%, a Tier 1 risk based capital ratio of less than 4%, a CET1 risk based capital ratio of less than 3%, and a Tier 1 leverage ratio of less than 3%; and
critically undercapitalized, a bank would have a ratio of tangible equity to total assets that is less than or equal to 2%.
Institutions that fall into the latter three categories are subject to restrictions on their growth and are required to submit a capital restoration plan. There is also a method by which an institution may be downgraded to a lower capital category based on supervisory factors other than capital. As of December 31, 2019,2022, Simmons Bank was “well capitalized” based on the aforementioned ratios.

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act
 
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act (“FDICIA”), enacted in 1991, requires the FDIC to increase assessment rates for insured banks and authorizes one or more “special assessments,” as necessary for the repayment of funds borrowed by the FDIC or any other necessary purpose. As directed in FDICIA, the FDIC has adopted a transitional risk-based assessment system, under which the assessment rate for insured banks will vary according to the level of risk incurred in the bank’s activities. The risk category and risk-based assessment for a bank is determined, in part, from its prompt corrective action, as well capitalized, adequately capitalized or undercapitalized. Please refer to the section below titled “FDICFDIC Deposit Insurance and Assessments”Assessments for more information.
 
Pursuant to the FDICIA and Federal Deposit Insurance Act (“FDIA”), the federal banking agencies must promptly mandate corrective actions by banks that fail to meet the capital and related requirements in order to minimize losses to the FDIC and the Deposit Insurance Fund. At its most recent regulatory examinations in 2019,As of December 31, 2022, the Company’s subsidiary bankBank was determined to be well capitalized under these regulations.

The federal banking agencies are also required by FDICIA to prescribe standards for banks and bank holding companies (including financial holding companies) relating to operations and management, asset quality, earnings, stock valuation and compensation. A bank or bank holding company that fails to comply with such standards will be required to submit a plan designed to achieve compliance. If no plan is submitted or the plan is not implemented, the bank or holding company would become subject to additional regulatory action or enforcement proceedings.
 
A variety of other provisions included in FDICIA may affect the operations of the Company and the subsidiary bank, including reporting requirements, regulatory standards for real estate lending, “truth in savings” provisions, and the requirement that a depository institution give 90 days prior notice to customers and regulatory authorities before closing any branch.
 
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act
 
Enacted in 2010, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (“Dodd-Frank Act”), significantly changed the regulation of financial institutions and the financial services industry. The Dodd-Frank Act included provisions affecting large and small financial institutions alike, including several provisions that profoundly affected how community banks, thrifts, and small bank and thrift holding companies are regulated. Among other things, these provisions relaxed rules regarding interstate branching, allow financial institutions to pay interest on business checking accounts, and revised capital requirements on bank and thrift holding companies.
 



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The Dodd-Frank Act also established the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection (“CFPB”) as an independent entity within the Federal Reserve and provided it with the authority to promulgate consumer protection regulations applicable to all entities offering consumer financial services or products, including banks. Additionally, the Dodd-Frank Act included a series of provisions covering mortgage loan origination standards affecting, among other things, originator compensation, minimum repayment standards, and pre-payment penalties. The Dodd-Frank Act contained numerous other provisions affecting financial institutions of all types, many of which have an impact on our operating environment, including among other things, our regulatory compliance costs. However, the Dodd-Frank Act does not prevent states from adopting stricter consumer protection standards thatthan those promulgated by the CFPB. State regulation of financial products and potential enforcement actions could also adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, or operations.

The EGRRCPA

In May 2018, the Economic Growth, Regulatory Reform, and Consumer Protection Act (“EGRRCPA”) was enacted, which, among other things, amended certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act.Act as well as statutes administered by the FRB and the FDIC. The EGRRCPA provides targeted regulatory relief to financial institutions while preserving the existing framework under which U.S. financial institutions are regulated. The EGRRCPA relieves bank holding companies with less than $100 billion in assets, such as the Company, from the enhanced prudential standards imposed under Section 165 of the Dodd-Frank Act (including, but not limited to, resolution planning and enhanced liquidity and risk management requirements). Please see the section below titled “ImpactsImpacts of Growth”Growth for more information.
In addition to amending the Dodd Frank Act, the EGRRCPA also includes certain additional banking-related provisions, consumer protection provisions and securities law-related provisions. Many of the EGRRCPA’s changes have beenwere implemented through rules finalized by the federal banking agencies over the course of 2019. These rules and their enforcement are subject to the substantial regulatory discretion of the federal banking agencies. The Company continues to evaluate the potential impact of the EGRRCPA as it is further implemented by the federal banking agencies.

Volcker Rule

Section 619 of the Dodd-Frank Act, commonly known as the “Volcker Rule,” restricts the ability of banking entities from: (i) engaging in “proprietary trading” and (ii) investing in or sponsoring certain covered funds, subject to certain limited exceptions. Under the Volcker Rule, the term “covered funds” is defined as any issuer that would be an investment company under the Investment Company Act but for the exemption in Section 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of that Act. There are also several exemptions from the definition of covered fund, including, among other things, loan securitizations, joint ventures, certain types of foreign funds, entities issuing asset-backed commercial paper, and registered investment companies. The EGRRCPA and the subsequently promulgated inter-agency agency rules have aimed at simplifying and tailoring certain requirements related to the Volcker Rule.
Brokered Deposits

Section 29 of the FDIA and the FDIC regulations promulgated thereunder limit the ability of any bank to accept, renew or roll over any brokered deposit unless it is well capitalized or, with the FDIC’s approval, adequately capitalized. However, as a result of the EGRRCPA, the FDIC has undertaken a comprehensive review of its regulatory approach to brokered deposits, including reciprocal deposits, and interest rate caps applicable to banks that are less than well capitalized. In December 2019,2020, the FDIC issued a notice of proposedfinal rulemaking to modernize its brokered deposit regulations. At this time, it is difficultAmong other things, the final rule established a new framework for analyzing certain provisions of the “deposit broker” definition and established certain automatic “primary purpose” exemptions from the deposit broker definition, as well as revised certain interest rate restrictions that apply to predict what changes, if any, toless than well capitalized insured depository institutions. The final rule became effective April 1, 2021; and full compliance was required by January 1, 2022. Implementation of the brokered deposit regulations will actually be implemented or the effect of such changes, if any,final rule did not have a material impact on our subsidiary bank.
 

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FDIC Deposit Insurance and Assessments
 
Our customer deposit accounts are insured up to applicable limits by the FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund (“DIF”) up to $250,000 per separately insured depositor. Simmons Bank is required to pay deposit insurance assessments to maintain the DIF. Because Simmons Bank’s assets exceed $10 billion, its deposit insurance assessment is based on a scoring system that examines the institution’s supervisory ratings and certain financial measures. The scoring system assesses risk measures to produce two scores, a performance score and a loss severity score, that are combined and converted to an initial assessment rate. The FDIC has the ability to make discretionary adjustments to the total score based upon significant risk factors not adequately captured in the calculations.
 
As described above in the section titled “PotentialPotential Enforcement Action for Bank Holding Companies and Banks, the FDIC may terminate deposit insurance upon a finding that an 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.


Community Reinvestment Act

The Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 (“CRA”) requires that federal banking agencies evaluate the record of each financial institution in meeting the credit needs of the market areas they serve, including low and moderate-income (“LMI”) individuals and communities. These activities are also considered in connection with, among other things, applications for mergers, acquisitions and the opening of a branch or facility, and negative results of these evaluations could prevent us from engaging in these types of transactions. Simmons Bank received a “satisfactory” CRA rating during its most recent exam.

In December 2019,During recent years, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”), the primary federal prudential regulatory of national banks and federal savings associations, and the FDIC issued a joint notice of proposed rulemakingagencies have been engaged in efforts to modernizerevise the regulations implementing the CRA. Under the rulemaking, the OCC and FDIC intend to (i) clarify which activities qualify for CRA credit, (ii) update where activities count for CRA credit, (iii) create a more transparent and objective method for measuring CRA performance, and (iv) provide for more transparent, consistent, and timely CRA-related data collection, record keeping, and reporting. Importantly, the FRB did not join the OCC and FDIC in connection with the proposed rulemaking. At this time, it remains unclear what impact, if any, the joint proposal of the OCC and FDIC will have on state member banks regulated by the FRB, such as our subsidiary bank. The Company expectscontinues to monitor developments with respect to this rulemakingproposals concerning these regulations and assess the impact, if any, of the proposed changes to the CRA regulations.

UDAP and UDAAP

Federal laws, including Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act, prohibit financial institutions from engaging in unfair or deceptive acts or practices (“UDAP”) in or affecting commerce. The Dodd-Frank Act expanded regulation in this space to apply to unfair, deceptive or abusive acts or practices (“UDAAP”) and delegated to the CFPB supervision and enforcement authority for UDAAP with respect to our subsidiary bank and rulemaking authority with respect to UDAAP. These laws have been used to, among other things, address certain problematic practices that may not fall directly within the scope of other banking or consumer protection laws.

Financial Privacy and Data Security

The Company is subject to federal laws, including the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 (“GLBA”), and certain state laws containing consumer privacy protection and data security provisions. These federal and state laws, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, impose restrictions on our ability to disclose non-public information concerning consumers to nonaffiliated third parties. These laws, rules and regulations also mandate the distribution of privacy policies to consumers, as well as provide consumers an ability to prevent our disclosure of their information under certain circumstances.

In addition, the GLBA requires that financial institutions, such as our subsidiary bank, implement comprehensive written information security programs that include administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect consumer information and data. Further, pursuant to interpretive guidance issued under the GLBA and certain state laws, financial institutions are also required to notify customers of security breaches that result in unauthorized access to their nonpublic personal information.

Although these laws and regulations impose compliance costs and create obligations and, in some cases, reporting obligations, and compliance with all of the laws, regulations, and reporting obligations may require significant resources of the Company and our subsidiary bank, these laws and regulations do not materially affect our products, services or other business activities.



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Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorism

Simmons Bank is subject to the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (also known as the “PATRIOT Act”), the Bank Secrecy Act (“BSA”) and rules and regulations of the Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”).

Under Title III of the PATRIOT Act, all financial institutions are required to take certain measures to identify their customers, prevent money laundering, monitor customer transactions, and report suspicious activity to U.S. law enforcement agencies. Financial institutions also are required to respond to requests for information from federal banking agencies and law enforcement agencies. Information sharing among financial institutions for the above purposes is encouraged by an exemption granted to complying financial institutions from the privacy provisions of the GLBA and other privacy laws.

Among other things, Simmons Bank is required to establish an anti-money laundering (“AML”) program which includes the designation of a BSA officer, the establishment and maintenance of BSA/AML training, the establishment and maintenance of BSA/AML policies and procedures, independent testing of the AML program, and compliance with customer due diligence requirements. Our subsidiary bank must also employ enhanced due diligence under certain conditions. Compliance with BSA/AML requirements is routinely examined by regulators, and failure of a financial institution to meet its requirements in combating AML and anti-terrorism activities could result in severe penalties for the institution, including, among other things, the inability to receive the requisite regulatory approvals for mergers and acquisition.



Further, OFAC administers economic sanctions imposed by the federal government that affect transactions with foreign countries, individuals, and others (as the “OFAC Rules”). The OFAC Rules target many countries as well as specially designated nationals and blocked persons (collectively, “SDNs”) and take many different forms. Blocked assets (property and bank deposits) that are associated with such countries and SDNs cannot be paid out, withdrawn, set off, or transferred in any manner without a license from OFAC. Failure to comply with the OFAC Rules can result in serious legal and reputational consequences.

In December 2020, the U.S. Congress enacted the National Defense Authorization Act (the “NDAA”) that, among other provisions, made significant updates to the federal BSA/AML regulations that aim to eliminate the use of shell companies that facilitate the laundering of criminal proceeds. In December 2021, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”) issued rules to implement a national beneficial ownership reporting framework and to update the customer due diligence requirements that apply to the Company and the Bank to be consistent with this framework. The Company and the Bank continue to monitor legislative, regulatory and supervisory developments related thereto.
Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas
Simmons Bank is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (“FHLB-Dallas”), which is one of 11 regional Federal Home Loan Banks (“FHLBs”) that provide funding to their members for making housing loans as well as for affordable housing and community development loans. Each FHLB serves as a reserve, or central bank, for the members within its assigned region and makes loans to its members in accordance with policies and procedures established by the board of directors of that FHLB. As a member, Simmons Bank must purchase and maintain stock in FHLB-Dallas. At December 31, 2019,2022, Simmons Bank’s total investment in FHLB-Dallas was $66.3$52.5 million.
Incentive Compensation
The Dodd-Frank Act requires the federal banking agencies and the SEC to establish joint regulations or guidelines prohibiting incentive-based payment arrangements at specified regulated entities, including the Company and our subsidiary bank, with at least $1 billion in total consolidated assets that encourage inappropriate risks by providing an executive officer, employee, director, or principal shareholder with excessive compensation, fees, or benefits that could lead to material financial loss to the entity. The federal banking agencies and the SEC most recently proposed such regulations in 2016, but the regulations have not yet been finalized. However, in late 2022, the SEC finalized asa set of year-end 2019. When the regulations are adopted - and if they are adopted in the form initially proposed - they will restrict the manner in whichrules directing national securities exchanges to establish listing standards regarding clawbacks of incentive-based executive compensation, which rules were originally proposed in 2015. The Company is structured and may impact the Company’s abilitymonitoring developments with respect to structure incentive compensation.these listing standards, which are expected to be proposed in 2023.

The Dodd-Frank Act also requires publicly traded companies to give stockholders a non-binding vote on executive compensation at least every three years and on so-called “golden parachute” payments in connection with approvals of mergers and acquisitions. The Company gives stockholders a non-binding vote on executive compensation annually.



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Impacts of Growth
 
During 2017, through internal growth and through acquisitions, the consolidated assets of the Company exceeded the $10 billion threshold, which resulted in several regulatory changes forBecause the Company and Simmons Bank.Bank have exceeded $10 billion in assets, each of the Company and the Bank are subject to heightened requirements (as compared to smaller community banking organizations) that are imposed by various federal banking law and regulations.

Among other things, the Dodd-Frank Act, through the Durbin Amendment, and associated Federal Reserve regulations cap the interchange rate on debit card transactions that can be charged by banks that, together with their affiliates, have at least $10 billion in assets at $0.21 per transaction plus five basis points multiplied by the value of the transaction. The cap goes into effect July 1st of the year following the year in which a bank reaches the $10 billion asset threshold. Simmons Bank became subject to the interchange rate cap effective July 1, 2018. Because of the cap, Simmons Bank received approximately $6.8 million less in debit card fees on a pre-tax basis in the last six months of 2018 and approximately $6.4 million less on a pre-tax basis during the first six months of 2019.

As of December 31, 2017, the Company exceeded $15 billion in total assets, and the grandfather provisions applicable to its trust preferred securities no longer apply, and trust preferred securities are no longer included as Tier 1 capital. Trust preferred securities and qualifying subordinated debt isare included as total Tier 2 capital.
 
The Dodd-Frank Act also previously required banks and bank holding companies with more than $10 billion in assets to adhere to certain enhanced prudential standards, including requirements to conduct annual stress tests, report the results to regulators and publicly disclose such results. However, as a result of regulatory reform finalized following passage of the EGRRCPA, the Company and Simmons Bank are no longer required to conduct an annual stress test of capital under the Dodd-Frank Act. Further, as a result of passage of the EGRRCPA, bank holding companies with less than $100 billion in assets, such as the Company, are exempt from the resolution planning, enhanced liquidity standards, and risk management requirements imposed under Section 165 of the Dodd-Frank Act. In anticipation of becoming subject to these requirements, the Company and Simmons Bank had begun the necessary preparations, including undertaking a gap analysis, implementing enhancements to the audit and compliance departments, and investing in various information technology systems. Notwithstanding that federal banking agencies will not take action with respect to these enhanced prudential standards, the Company and its subsidiary bank will continue to review their capital planning and risk management practices in connection with the regular supervisory processes of the FRB.



Additionally, the Dodd-Frank Act established the CFPB and granted it supervisory authority over banks with total assets of more than $10 billion. Simmons Bank is subject to CFPB oversight with respect to its compliance with federal consumer financial laws. Simmons Bank will continuecontinues to be subject to the oversight of its other regulators with respect to matters outside the scope of the CFPB’s jurisdiction. The CFPB has broad rule-making, supervisory, examination and examinationenforcement authority, as well as expanded data collecting and enforcement powers, all of which impactsimpact the operations of Simmons Bank.

Pending Legislation
 
Because of concerns relating to, among other things, competitiveness and the safety and soundness of the banking industry, Congress and state legislatures often consider a number of wide-ranging proposals for altering the structure, regulation, and competitive relationships of the nation’s financial institutions and of those chartered in a particular state legislature’s jurisdiction. We cannot predict whether or in what form any proposals will be adopted or the extent to which our business may be affected.

Effect of Governmental Monetary Policies

The FRB uses monetary policy tools to impact interest rates, credit market conditions and money market conditions, as well as to influence general economic conditions, including employment, market interest and inflation rates. These policies can have a significant impact on the absolute levels and distribution of deposits, loans and investment securities, as well as on market interest rates charged on loans or paid for deposits and other borrowings. Monetary policies of the FRB have in the past had a significant effect on the operating results of bank holding companies and their subsidiary banks, such as the Company and Simmons Bank, and may have similar effects in the future.


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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
 
In addition to the other information contained in this report, including the information contained in “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements,” investors in our securities should carefully consider the factors discussed below. An investment in our securities involves risks. The factors below, among others, could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity or capital position, or cause our results to differ materially from our historical results or the results expressed in or implied by our forward-looking statements. Additionally, investors should not interpret the disclosure of a risk to imply that the risk has not already materialized.

Risks Related to Market Interest Rates and Liquidity

Changes in interest rates and monetary policy could adversely affect our profitability.

Our net income and cash flows depend to a significant extent on the difference between interest rates earned on interest-earning assets and the rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. These rates are highly sensitive to many factors beyond our control, including general economic conditions and credit and monetary policies of governmental authorities. Changes in the credit or monetary policies of governmental authorities, particularly the Federal Reserve, could significantly impact market interest rates and our financial performance. For instance, changes in the nature of open market transactions in U.S. government securities, the discount rate or the federal funds rate on bank borrowings, and reserve requirements against bank deposits, could lead to increases in the costs associated with our business. In addition, such changes could influence the interest we receive on loans and securities and the amount of interest we pay on deposits. If the interest rates we pay on deposits increases at a faster rate than the interest we receive on loans and other investments, then our net interest income could be adversely affected. If the Federal Reserve further raises interest rates, we may not be able to reflect increasing interest rates in rates charged on loans or paid on deposits due to competitive pressures, which would negatively impact our mix of deposits and other funding sources, reduce demand for our products and services, or otherwise negatively impact our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, the impact of these changes may be magnified if we do not effectively manage the relative sensitivity of our assets and liabilities to changes in market interest rates, and our ability to manage such relative sensitivity may be adversely impacted by competitive conditions in the banking industry and in the financial markets. Due to the changing conditions in the national economy, we cannot predict with certainty how future changes in interest rates, deposit levels and loan demand will impact our business and profitability.

Changes in the method pursuant to which the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) and other benchmark rates are determined, as well as the discontinuance and replacement of LIBOR as a reference rate, could adversely impact our business and results of operations.

LIBOR and certain other interest rate benchmarks are the subject of recent national and international reform. We expect that the publication of the remaining LIBOR rates will cease immediately following the LIBOR publication on June 30, 2023. The U.S. federal banking agencies have issued statements to encourage U.S. banks to transition away from U.S. dollar LIBOR as soon as practicable and not to enter into new contracts that use U.S. dollar LIBOR after December 31, 2021. Due to LIBOR’s extensive use across financial markets, the transition away from LIBOR pose risks and challenges to financial markets and financial institutions, including the Company, and liquidity in certain interbank markets on which LIBOR estimates are based has been declining. At this time, it is not possible to predict exactly when and to what extent banks will discontinue providing submissions for the calculation of LIBOR. Similarly, at this time, it is not possible to predict exactly how long LIBOR will continue to be viewed as an acceptable market benchmark, what rate or rates may become the generally accepted alternatives to LIBOR, or what the effect of any such changes in views or alternatives may be on the markets for LIBOR-linked financial instruments.

Certain of our LIBOR-based financial products and contracts, including, but not limited to, hedging products, debt obligations, investments, and loans, extend beyond 2023. We are continuing to assess, and plan for, the impact that a cessation or market replacement of LIBOR will have on these various products and contracts and working to transition many LIBOR based products and contracts to other interest rate structures. The market transition away from LIBOR to alternative reference rates is a complex process and could have a range of effects on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations, including but not limited to by (i) adversely affecting the interest rates received or paid on the revenues and expenses associated with, or the value of the Company’s LIBOR-based assets and liabilities; (ii) adversely affecting the interest rates paid on or received from other securities or financial arrangements, given LIBOR’s historically prominent role in determining market interest rates globally, or (iii) resulting in disputes, litigation or other actions with borrowers or other counterparties about the interpretation or enforceability of certain fallback language contained in LIBOR-based loans, securities or other contracts.The discontinuation of LIBOR could result in operational, legal and compliance risks, and, if we are unable to adequately manage such risks and transition from LIBOR to new reference rates, our business, financial condition, results of operations and future prospects may be adversely impacted.

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Our cost of funds may increase as a result of general economic conditions, interest rates and competitive pressures.
Our cost of funds may increase as a result of general economic conditions, fluctuations in interest rates and competitive pressures. We have traditionally obtained funds principally through local deposits as we have a base of lower cost transaction deposits. Our costs of funds and our profitability and liquidity are likely to be adversely affected if we have to rely upon higher cost borrowings from other institutional lenders or brokers to fund loan demand or liquidity needs. Also, changes in our deposit mix and growth could adversely affect our profitability and the ability to expand our loan portfolio, as well as our liquidity and funding mix.

Our investment securities portfolio could decline in value as a result of interest rate changes and changes in issuer credit quality or the strength of the associated collateral.

If interest rates change in the future, the market value of our investment securities portfolio may decline. Weaknesses in the credit quality of the issuers of the securities within our portfolio or in the strength of the collateral, if any, underlying those securities could also result in a decline in the value of our investment securities portfolio, which could negatively affect equity and potentially impact our earnings.

A lack of liquidity could impair our ability to fund our business and thereby adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Liquidity is a critical component of our business. To ensure adequate liquidity to fund our operations, we rely heavily on our ability to generate deposits and effectively manage both the repayment of loans and the maturity schedules of our investment securities. Our most important source of funds is deposits, but sources of funds also include, among other things, cash flows from operations, maturities and sales of investment securities, and borrowings from the Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan Bank. Our access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance our activities, or on terms that are acceptable to us, could be impaired by factors that affect us specifically or the financial services industry or economy in general. This could result in a lack of liquidity, which could materially and adversely affect our business.

Risks Related to the Company’s Lending Activities

The mismanagement of our credit risks could result in serious harm to our business.

There are a variety of risks inherent in making loans, including, among others, risks inherent with dealing with borrowers and guarantors, risks associated with potential future changes in the value of the collateral supporting the loans, the risk that a loan may not be repaid, and the risks associated with changes in economic or industry conditions. As part of our ongoing efforts to minimize these credit-related risks, we utilize credit policies and procedures, internal credit expertise and several internal layers of review for the loans we make. We also actively monitor our concentrations of loans and carefully evaluate the credit underwriting practices of acquired institutions. However, there can be no assurance that these underwriting and monitoring procedures will reduce these risks, and the inability to properly manage our credit risk could have a material adverse effect on our business, which, in turn, could impact our financial condition and results of operations.

Deteriorating credit quality in our credit card portfolio may adversely impact us.
We have a sizeable consumer credit card portfolio. Although we experienced a decreased amount of net charge-offs in our credit card portfolio in recent years, the amount of net charge-offs could worsen. While we continue to experience a better performance with respect to net charge-offs than the national average in our credit card portfolio, our net charge-offs were 1.49% and 1.42% of our average outstanding credit card balances for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Future downturns in the economy could adversely affect consumers in a more delayed fashion compared to commercial businesses in general. Increasing unemployment and diminished asset values may prevent our credit card customers from repaying their credit card balances which could result in an increased amount of our net charge-offs that could have a material adverse effect on our unsecured credit card portfolio.


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We may not maintain an appropriate allowance for credit losses.

It is likely that some portion of our loans will become delinquent, and some loans may only be partially repaid or may never be repaid. We maintain an allowance for credit losses, which is a reserve established through a provision for credit losses charged to expense, that results from management’s review of the existing portfolio and management’s assessment of the portfolio’s collectability. Our methodology for establishing the appropriateness of the allowance for credit losses inherently involves a high degree of subjectivity and judgment and requires management to make significant estimates and predictions regarding credit risks, future market conditions, and other factors, all of which are subject to material changes and may not necessarily be in our control. If our methodology is flawed, or if we experience changes in market or economic conditions, or in conditions of our borrowers, the allowance may become inadequate, which would result in additional provisions to increase the allowance to an appropriate level. This could negatively impact our business, including through a material decrease in our earnings. In addition, prudential regulators also periodically review our allowance for credit losses and have the ability, based on their perspective, which may be different from ours, to require that we make adjustments to the allowance, which could also have a negative effect on our results of operations or financial condition.

We rely on the mortgage secondary market from time to time to provide liquidity.

We sell certain mortgage loans we originate to certain agencies and other purchasers. We rely, in part, on the agencies to purchase loans meeting their requirements to reduce our credit risk and to provide funding for additional loans we desire to originate. There is no guarantee that the agencies will not materially limit their purchases of conforming loans due to capital constraints, a change in the criteria for conforming loans or other factors. If we are unable to continue to sell conforming loans to the agencies, our ability to fund, and thus originate, additional mortgage loans may be adversely affected, which would adversely affect our results of operations.

Sales of our loans are subject to a variety of risks.

In relation to any sale of one or more of our loan portfolios, we may make certain representations and warranties to the purchaser concerning the loans sold and the procedures under which those loans were originated and serviced. If those representations and warranties prove to be incorrect, we may be required to indemnify the purchaser for any related losses or be required to repurchase certain loans that were sold. In some cases where such obligations are invoked by the purchaser, the loans may be non-performing or in default, leaving us without a remedy available against a solvent counterparty to the loan. Our results of operations may be adversely affected if we are not able to recover our losses resulting from these indemnity payments and repurchases.

Loans made through federal programs are dependent on the federal government’s continuation and support of these programs and on our compliance with program requirements.

We participate in various U.S. government agency loan guarantee programs, including programs operated by the SBA. If we fail to follow any applicable regulations, guidelines or policies associated with a particular guarantee program, any loans we originate as part of that program may lose the associated guarantee, exposing us to credit risk we would not otherwise be exposed to, or result in our inability to continue originating loans under such programs, either of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Significant portions of our loan portfolio include commercial real estate, construction and development, and commercial and industrial loans, each of which presents heightened lending risks.

Our commercial loan portfolio includes, in significant part, commercial real estate loans, construction and development loans, and commercial and industrial loans. Among other things, commercial real estate loans are generally larger than residential real estate loans, often depend on the owner’s cash flows or those of the property’s tenants (which can be adversely affected by changes in economic conditions) as a source for repayment, and are generally perceived as involving a greater degree of risk of default than home equity loans or residential mortgage loans. Similarly, construction and development loan pose heightened risk when compared to residential real estate loans due to, for example, the fact that repayment often depends on successful completion of the construction or development project and subsequent financing. Additionally, commercial and industrial loans are often dependent upon the successful operation of the borrower’s business. If the operating company suffers difficulties, including reduction in sales volume and/or profitability, the borrower’s ability to repay the loan may be impaired, and the collateral associated with these types of loans may have depreciated during the term of the loan or may be difficult to value and/or liquidate. For these reasons and others, these types of loans present heightened lending risks that, if realized, may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

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In the event we are required to foreclose on a loan secured by real estate, we may not be able to realize the value of that real estate as indicated in any independent appraisals upon which we relied in extending the loan.

Loans secured by real estate make up a substantial portion of our loan portfolio. In making certain of these loans, we rely on estimates concerning the value of the real estate provided by independent appraisers. However, these appraisals are only estimates of value, and mistakes of fact or judgement on the part of the appraiser could adversely affect the reliability of their appraisals. Furthermore, the value of the real estate could change (including by declining) based on events occurring after the time of the appraisal, and preparing foreclosed real estate for sale, and then selling such real estate collateral, may impose significant additional costs on us. We, therefore, may not be able to fully recover the outstanding balance of a loan in the event of its default if the real estate serving as collateral has declined in value from its original estimate, which could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Risks Related to Our Business, Industry, and Markets
 
Our business may be adversely affected by conditions in the financial markets and general economic conditions.
 
Changes in economic conditions could cause the values of assets and liabilities recorded in the financial statements to change rapidly, resulting in material future adjustments in asset values, the allowance for loancredit losses, or capital that could negatively impact the Company’s ability to meet regulatory capital requirements and maintain sufficient liquidity.
 
The previous economic downturnGreat Recession elevated unemployment levels and negatively impacted consumer confidence. It also had a detrimental impact on industry-wide performance nationally as well as the Company’s market areas. Since 2013,While improvement in several economic indicators have been noted since 2013, including increasing consumer confidence levels, increased economic activity and a continued decline in unemployment levels.

Past market conditions have alsolevels, the COVID-19 pandemic led to extensive additional disruptions to the failure or merger ofeconomy generally during 2020 and 2021.

In a number of prominent financial institutions. Financial institution failures or near-failures can result in further losses as a consequence of defaults on securities issued by them and defaults under contracts entered into with such entities as counterparties. Furthermore,significant recession, declining asset values, defaults on mortgages and consumer loans, and the lack of market and investor confidence, as well as other factors, can all combine to increase credit default swap spreads, to cause rating agencies to lower credit ratings, and to otherwise increase the cost and decrease the availability of liquidity, despite very significant declines in Federal Reserve borrowing rates and other government actions. In the previous economic downturn,Great Recession, some banks and other lenders suffered significant losses and became reluctant to lend, even on a secured basis, due to the increased risk of default and the impact of declining asset values on the value of collateral. The foregoing can significantly weaken the strength and liquidity of some financial institutions worldwide.
 
The Company’s financial performance generally, and in particular the ability of borrowers to pay interest on and repay principal of outstanding loans and the value of collateral securing those loans, is highly dependent upon the business environment in the states where we operate, and in the United States as a whole. A favorable business environment is generally characterized by, among other factors, economic growth, efficient capital markets, low inflation, high business and investor confidence and strong business earnings. Unfavorable or uncertain economic and market conditions can be caused by declines in economic growth, business activity or investor or business confidence; limitations on the availability or increases in the cost of credit and capital; increases in inflation or interest rates; natural disasters; or a combination of these or other factors.

The business environment in the states where we operate could deteriorate and adversely affect the credit quality of our loans and our results of operations and financial condition. There can be no assurance that business and economic conditions will remain stable in the near term. If financial market volatility worsens, or if there are more disruptions in the financial markets, including disruptions to the United States or international banking systems, there can be no assurance that we will not experience an adverse effect, which may be material, on our ability to access capital and on our business, financial condition and results of operations.



Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates,Continued inflationary pressures could adversely affectincrease our profitability.

Changes incosts (and the credit policiescosts of monetary authorities, particularly the Federal Reserve, could significantlyour borrowers) and otherwise negatively impact our financial performance. For instance, changes in the nature of open market transactions in U.S. government securities, the discount rate or the federal funds ratebusiness.

We have experienced upward inflationary pressures on bank borrowings, and reserve requirements against bank deposits, could lead to increases in theour operating costs, including costs associated with our business. In addition, such changes could influence the interestgoods and services we receive on loans and securities and the amount of interest we pay on deposits. If the interest rates we pay on deposits increases at a faster rate than the interest we receive on loans and other investments, then our net interest income could be adversely affected. Due to the changing conditions in the national economy, we cannot predict with certainty how future changes in interest rates, deposit levels, and loan demand will impact our business and profitability.

Changes in the method pursuant to which the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) and other benchmark rates are determined could adversely impact our business and results of operations.

On July 27, 2017, the Chief Executive of the United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates LIBOR, announced that it intends to stop persuading or compelling banks to submit rates for the calibration of LIBOR to the administrator of LIBOR after 2021. The announcement indicates that the continuation of LIBOR on the current basis cannot and will not be guaranteed after 2021. Consequently, at this time, it is not possible to predict whether and to what extent banks will continue to provide submissions for the calculation of LIBOR. Similarly, it is not possible to predict whether LIBOR will continue to be viewed as an acceptable market benchmark, what rate or rates may become accepted alternatives to LIBOR, or what the effect of any such changes in views or alternatives may be on the markets for LIBOR-linked financial instruments.

Certain of our LIBOR-based financial products and contracts, including, but not limited to, hedging products, debt obligations, investments, and loans, extend beyond 2021. We are in the process of assessing the impact that a cessation or market replacement of LIBOR would have on these various products and contracts. We also continue to monitor the transition relief being considered by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) concerning the accounting for contract modifications and hedge accounting.

Financial legislative and regulatory initiatives could adversely affect the results of our operations.
We are subject to extensive governmental regulation, supervision, legislation, and control. For instance, in response to the financial crisis affecting the banking system and financial markets, the Dodd-Frank Act was enacted in 2010,from third-party vendors, as well as several programs that have been initiated by the U.S. Treasury, the FRB,our labor costs. If our expenses continue to increase due to continued inflation, our profitability could decline and the FDIC.     See “Item 1. Business - Supervision and Regulation” included herein for more information regarding regulatory burden and supervision.
Some of the provisions of legislation and regulation that have adversely impacted the Company include the “Durbin Amendment” to the Dodd-Frank Act, which mandates a limit to debit card interchange fees, and Regulation E amendments to the EFTA regarding overdraft fees. Future financial legislation and regulatory initiatives can limit the type of products we offer, the methods by which we offer them, and the prices at which they are offered. These provisions can also increase our costs in offering these products.
The CFPB, Federal Reserve, and Arkansas State Bank Department have broad rulemaking, supervisory and examination authority, as well as data collection and enforcement powers. The scope and impact of the regulators’ actions can significantly impact the operations of the Company and the financial services industry in general.
These laws, regulations, and changes can increase our costs of regulatory compliance. They also can significantly affect the markets in which we do business, the markets for and value of our investments, and our ongoing operations, costs, and profitability. The ultimate impact of the provisions in legislative and regulatory initiatives on the Company’s business and results of operations also depends upon regulatory interpretation and rulemaking. As a result, we are unable to predict the ultimate impact of future legislation or regulation, 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.



Consumersoperations may not use community banks to meet their financial needs.

Advancements in technology have createdbe otherwise materially and adversely affected. In addition, continued inflationary pressures could increase the ability for financial transactions that have historically often involved community banks to be conducted through alternative channels. For example, consumers can now hold funds in brokerage accounts and Internet-only banks, or indeed with essentially any bank that provides for online account opening and online banking. Consumers can also complete transactions such as the purchase or saleoperating costs of goods and services, the payment of bills, and the transfer of funds without the direct assistance of banks. The resulting increased competition could result in the loss of fee income and customer deposits,our borrowers, which could negativelyadversely impact ourtheir profitability and financial condition resultsand thereby increase the likelihood of operations, and liquidity. It could also require additional, costly investments in technology to remain competitive.defaults on loans we have extended.

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We are subject to fraud risk, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

Fraud is a major, and increasing, operational risk, particularly for financial institutions. We continue to experience fraud attempts and losses through, for example, deposit fraud (such as wire fraud and check fraud) and loan fraud. Fraud may also arise from the misconduct of our employees. The methods used to perpetrate and combat fraud continue to evolve, particularly as advances in technology occur. While we seek to be vigilant in the prevention, detection, and remediation of fraud events, some fraud loss is unavoidable, and the risk of major fraud loss cannot be eliminated.

Risks Related to Our Business
Our concentration of banking activities in Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas, including our real estate loan portfolio, makes us more vulnerable to adverse conditions in the particular local markets in which we operate.
 
Our subsidiary bank operates primarily within the states of Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas, where the majority of the buildings and properties securing our loans and the businesses of our customers are located. Our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows are subject to changes in the economic conditions in these eightsix states, the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans, and the value of the collateral securing such loans. We largely depend on the continued growth and stability of the communities we serve for our continued success. Declines in the economies of these communities or the states in general could adversely affect our ability to generate new loans or to receive repayments of existing loans, and our ability to attract new deposits, thus adversely affecting our net income, profitability and financial condition.

The ability of our borrowers to repay their loans could also be adversely impacted by the significant changes in market conditions in the region or by changes in local real estate markets, including deflationary effects on collateral value caused by property foreclosures. This could result in an increase in our charge-offs and provision for loancredit losses. Either of these events would have an adverse impact on our results of operations.
 
A significant decline in general economic conditions caused by inflation, recession, unemployment, acts of terrorism or other factors beyond our control could also have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, because multi-family and commercial real estate loans represent the majority of our real estate loans outstanding, a decline in tenant occupancy due to such factors or for other reasons could adversely impact the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans on a timely basis, which could have a negative impact on our results of operations.

The mismanagement of our credit risks could result in serious harm to our business.

There are a variety of risks inherent in making loans, including, among others, risks inherent with dealing with borrowers and guarantors, risks associated with potential future changes in the value of the collateral supporting the loans, the risk that a loan may not be repaid, and the risks associated with changes in economic or industry conditions. As part of our ongoing efforts to minimize these credit-related risks, we utilize credit policies and procedures, internal credit expertise and several internal layers of review for the loans we make. We also actively monitor our concentrations of loans and carefully evaluate the credit underwriting practices of acquired institutions. However, there can be no assurance that these underwriting and monitoring procedures will reduce these risks, and the inability to properly manage our credit risk could have a material adverse effect on our business, which, in turn, could impact our financial condition and results of operations.



A lack of liquidity could impair our ability to fund our business and thereby adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Liquidity is a critical component of our business. To ensure adequate liquidity to fund our operations, we rely heavily on our ability to generate deposits and effectively manage both the repayment of loans and the maturity schedules of our investment securities. Our most important source of funds is deposits, but sources of funds also include, among other things, cash flows from operations, maturities and sales of investment securities, and borrowings from the Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan Bank. Our access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance our activities, or on terms that are acceptable to us, could be impaired by factors that affect us specifically or the financial services industry or economy in general. This could result in a lack of liquidity, which could materially and adversely affect our business.

Deteriorating credit quality in our credit card portfolio may adversely impact us.
We have a sizeable consumer credit card portfolio. Although we experienced a decreased amount of net charge-offs in our credit card portfolio in recent years, the amount of net charge-offs could worsen. While we continue to experience a better performance with respect to net charge-offs than the national average in our credit card portfolio, our net charge-offs were 1.86% and 1.64% of our average outstanding credit card balances for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Future downturns in the economy could adversely affect consumers in a more delayed fashion compared to commercial businesses in general. Increasing unemployment and diminished asset values may prevent our credit card customers from repaying their credit card balances which could result in an increased amount of our net charge-offs that could have a material adverse effect on our unsecured credit card portfolio.

We face strong competition from other banks, bank holding companies, and financial services companies.

In the markets we serve, the businesses of banking and financial services are fiercely competitive. Many of our competitors offer the same, or similar, products and services within our market areas. Some of our competitors are able to offer a broader range of products and services than we do. These competitors include banks with nationwide presences, regional banks, and community banks (who may have greater flexibility in their operational strategies than we possess). We also face competition from many other types of financial institutions, including, among others, credit unions, finance companies, insurance companies, brokerage and investment banking firms. Certain nonbank competitors of the Company are increasingly offering products and services that traditionally were banking products due to technological advances, and many of these nonbank competitors are not subject to the same extensive federal regulations that govern bank holding companies and federally insured banks. As a result, some of the competitors in our markets have the ability to offer products and services that we are unable to offer or to offer such products and services at more competitive rates. If we are unable to effectively compete for banking customers, we may lose loan and deposit market share, as well as experience reductions in net interest margin, fee income, and profitability, and our business, financial condition, and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Changes in service delivery channels and emerging technologies pose a competitive risk.

Advancements in technology have created the ability for financial transactions that have historically often involved traditional banks to be conducted through alternative channels. For example, consumers can now hold funds in brokerage accounts and internet-only banks, or indeed with essentially any bank that provides for online account opening and online banking. Consumers can also complete transactions such as the purchase or sale of goods and services, the payment of bills, and the transfer of funds without the direct assistance of banks. Indeed, non-traditional financial services firms, such as financial technology (FinTech) companies, have begun to offer a variety of services traditionally provided by banks and other financial institutions. The resulting increased competition could result in the loss of fee income and customer deposits,which could negatively impact our financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity. It could also require additional, costly investments in technology to remain competitive.

We anticipate that new technologies will continue to emerge that may be superior to, or render obsolete, the technologies currently used by the Company and the Bank in their products and services. Developing or acquiring access to new technologies and incorporating those technologies into our products and services, or using them to expand our products and services, in each case in a way that enables us to remain competitive, may require significant investments, may take considerable time to complete, and ultimately may not be successful.

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Our growth and expansion strategy may not be successful, and our market value and profitability may suffer.
 
We have historically employed, as important parts of our business strategy, growth through acquisitions of banks and, to a lesser extent, through branch acquisitions and de novo branching. Any future acquisitions in which we might engage will be accompanied by the risks commonly encountered in acquisitions. These risks include, among other risks:
 
credit risk associated with the acquired bank’s loans and investments;
difficulty of integrating operations and personnel; and
potential disruption of our ongoing business.

In addition to pursuing the acquisition of existing viable financial institutions as opportunities arise we may also continue to engage in de novo branching to further our growth strategy. De novo branching and growing through acquisition involve numerous risks, including the following:
 
the inability to obtain all required regulatory approvals;
the significant costs and potential operating losses associated with establishing a de novo branch or a new bank;
the inability to secure the services of qualified senior management;
the local market may not accept the services of a new bank owned and managed by a bank holding company headquartered outside of the market area of the new bank;
the risk of encountering an economic downturn in the new market;
the inability to obtain attractive locations within a new market at a reasonable cost; and
the additional strain on management resources and internal systems and controls.



We expect that competition for suitable acquisition candidates will be significant. We may compete with other banks or financial service companies that are seeking to acquire our acquisition candidates, many of which are larger competitors and have greater financial and other resources. We cannot assure you that we will be able to successfully identify and acquire suitable acquisition targets on acceptable terms and conditions. Further, we cannot assure you that we will be successful in overcoming these risks or any other problems encountered in connection with acquisitions and de novo branching. Our inability to overcome these risks could have an adverse effect on our ability to achieve our business and growth strategy and maintain or increase our market value and profitability.
 
The value of our goodwill and other intangible assets may decline in the future.

As of December 31, 2019,2022, we had $1.1$1.3 billion of goodwill and $127.3$129.0 million of other intangible assets. A significant decline in our expected future cash flows, a significant adverse change in the business climate, slower economic growth or a significant and sustained decline in the price of our common stock, any or all of which could be materially impacted by many of the risk factors discussed herein, may necessitate our taking charges in the future related to the impairment of our goodwill. Future regulatory actions could also have a material impact on assessments of goodwill for impairment. If we were to conclude that a future write-down of our goodwill is necessary, we would record the appropriate charge, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

Identifiable intangible assets other than goodwill consist of core deposit intangibles, books of business, and other intangible assets. Adverse events or circumstances could impact the recoverability of these intangible assets including loss of core deposits, significant losses of customer accounts and/or balances, increased competition or adverse changes in the economy. To the extent these intangible assets are deemed unrecoverable, a non-cash impairment charge would be recorded, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

Damage to our reputation could significantly harm our business.

Our ability to attract and retain customers, employees, and acquisition partners is influenced by our reputation. A negative opinion of our business can develop in connection with a variety of circumstances, including issues with our lending practices, legal and regulatory compliance, risk management, corporate governance, customer service, community involvement, integration of acquired institutions, and third-party service providers. Our reputation could also be harmed through regulatory proceedings by governmental authorities, litigation, or cybersecurity events. Reputational damage could also impact our relationships with investors, our credit ratings and our ability to access capital markets.



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If we are unsuccessful in developing new, and adapting our current, products and services so that they respond to changing industry standards and customer preferences, our business may suffer.

We may not maintain an appropriate allowance for loan losses.

It is likely that some portionprovide a variety of our loans will become delinquent,commercial and some loans may only be partially repaid or may never be repaid. We maintain an allowance for loan losses, which isconsumer banking, as well as other financial, products and services designed to meet a reserve established through a provision for loan losses charged to expense, that results from management’s reviewbroad range of the existing portfolioneeds. While many of these products and management’s assessment of the portfolio’s collectability. Our methodology for establishing the appropriateness of the allowance for loan losses inherently involves a high degree of subjectivityservices are traditional both in their characteristics and judgment and requires management to make significant estimates and predictions regarding credit risks, future market conditions, and other factors, all of which are subject to material changes and may not necessarily betheir delivery channels, advancements in our control. If our methodology is flawed, or if we experiencetechnology, changes in market or economic conditions, or in conditions of our borrowers’, we the allowance may become inadequate, which would result in additional provisions to increase the allowance to an appropriate level. This could negatively impact our business, including through a material decrease in our earnings. In addition, prudential regulators also periodically review our allowance for loan lossesregulatory environment, and have the ability, based on their perspective, which may be different from ours, toevolving customer preferences require that we make adjustmentscontinuously evaluate the terms under which we provide our existing products and services (including, among other things, interest rates and loan covenants), the methods by which we deliver them (including the use of online and mobile banking), whether to partner with a FinTech company or other third-party vendor to provide products and services, and the allowance, whichpotential for new products and services in order to remain competitive. These efforts, though, could also haverequire substantial investments, and we can provide no assurance that we will develop new products and services, or adequately adapt our existing products and services, in a negative effect ontimely or successful manner. Our inability to do so could harm our business and adversely affect our results of operations and reputation. Furthermore, any new line of business and/or financial condition.

Our recent results do not indicatenew product or service could require the establishment of new key and other controls and have a significant impact on our future results and may not provide guidance to assess the riskexisting system of an investment in our common stock.
We may not be able to sustain our historical rate of growth or be able to expand our business. Various factors, such as economic conditions, regulatory and legislative considerations and competition, may also impede or prohibit our ability to expand our market presence. We may also be unable to identify advantageous acquisition opportunities or, once identified, enter into transactions to make such acquisitions. If we are not ableinternal controls. Failure to successfully growmanage these risks in the development and implementation of new lines of business and/or new products or services could have a material adverse effect on our business and, in turn, our financial condition and results of operationsoperations.

Risks Related to the Company’s Operations

We are subject to fraud risk, which could be adversely affected.
Our cost of funds may increase as a result of general economic conditions, interest rates and competitive pressures.
Our cost of funds may increase as a result of general economic conditions, fluctuations in interest rates and competitive pressures. We have traditionally obtained funds principally through local deposits as we have a basematerial adverse effect on our business and results of lower cost transaction deposits. Our costsoperations.

Fraud is a major, and increasing, operational risk, particularly for financial institutions. We continue to experience fraud attempts and losses through, for example, deposit fraud (such as wire fraud and check fraud) and loan fraud. Fraud may also arise from the misconduct of fundsour employees. The methods used to perpetrate and our profitability and liquidity are likelycombat fraud continue to evolve, particularly as advances in technology occur. While we seek to be adversely affected if we have to rely upon higher cost borrowings from other institutional lenders or brokers to fund loan demand or liquidity needs. Also, changesvigilant in our deposit mixthe prevention, detection, and growth could adversely affect our profitabilityremediation of fraud events, some fraud loss is unavoidable, and the ability to expand our loan portfolio.risk of major fraud loss cannot be eliminated.



Our models and estimations may be inadequate, which could lead to significant losses and regulatory scrutiny.

To assist with the management of our credit, liquidity, operations, and compliance functions and risks, we have developed, and currently use, various models and other analytical tools, including certain estimations. The models and estimations often take into account assumptions and historical trends and are, in some case, based on subjective judgments. As such, the models and estimations may not be effective in identifying and managing risks, which could adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations. Inadequate models may also result in compliance failures, which could lead to increased scrutiny by our regulators.

We may not be able to raise the additional capital we need to grow and, as a result, our ability to expand our operations could be materially impaired.
 
Federal and state regulatory authorities require us and our subsidiary bank to maintain adequate levels of capital to support our operations. Many circumstances could require us to seek additional capital, such as:
 
faster than anticipated growth;
reduced earning levels;
operating losses;
changes in economic conditions;
revisions in regulatory requirements; or
additional acquisition opportunities.

Our ability to raise additional capital will largely depend on our financial performance, and on conditions in the capital markets whichthat are outside our control. Moreover, if we need to raise capital in the future, we may have to do so when many other financial institutions are also seeking to raise capital and would, as a result, have to compete with those institutions for investors, which could adversely impact the price at which we are able to offer our securities. If we need additional capital but cannot raise it on terms acceptable to us, our ability to expand our operations or to engage in acquisitions could be materially impaired.

Accounting standards periodically change and the application of our accounting policies and methods may require management to make estimates about matters that are uncertain.

The regulatory bodies that establish accounting standards, including, among others, FASB and the SEC, periodically revise or issue new financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. The effect of such revised or new standards on our financial statements can be difficult to predict and can materially impact how we record and report our financial condition and results of operations. For example, in June 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-13, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, that effective January 1, 2020, substantially changed the accounting for credit losses and other financial assets held by banks, financial institutions and other organizations. The standard removes the existing “probable” threshold in generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for recognizing credit losses and instead requires companies to reflect their estimate of credit losses over the life of the financial assets. Companies must consider all relevant information when estimating expected credit losses, including details about past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. In December 2018, the Federal Reserve, OCC and FDIC released a final rule to revise their regulatory capital rules to address the upcoming change to the allowance measurement and subsequent concerns related to the impact on capital and capital planning. The rule provides, and we adopted, an optional three-year phase-in period for the day-one adverse regulatory capital impact upon adoption of the standard. The adoption of the standard resulted in an overall material increase in the allowance for credit losses. However, the impact at adoption was influenced by the portfolios' composition and quality at the adoption date as well as economic conditions and forecasts at that time. It is also possible that ongoing reported earnings and lending activity will be negatively impacted in periods following adoption.

In addition, our management must exercise judgment in appropriately applying many of our accounting policies and methods so they comply with generally accepted accounting principles. In some cases, management may have to select a particular accounting policy or method from two or more alternatives. In some cases, the accounting policy or method chosen might be reasonable under the circumstances and yet might result in our reporting materially different amounts than would have been reported if we had selected a different policy or method. Accounting policies are critical to fairly presenting our financial condition and results of operations and may require management to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments about matters that are uncertain.25




We are subject to litigation in the ordinary course of our business, and our associated legal expenses may adversely affect our results.

From time to time, we are subject to litigation. Litigation and claims can arise in various contexts, including, among others, our lending activities, employment practices, commercial agreements, fiduciary responsibilities, compliance programs, and other general business matters. These claims and legal actions, including supervisory actions by our regulators, could involve large amounts in controversy, significant fines or penalties, and substantial legal costs necessary for our defense. The outcome of litigation and regulatory matters, as well as the timing associated with resolving these matters, are inherently hard to predict. Substantial legal liability, which may not be insured, and significant regulatory actions against us could materially and adversely impact our business operations, including our ability to engage in mergers and acquisitions, our results of operations, and our financial condition.

Our business is heavily reliant on information technology systems, facilities, and processes; and a disruption in those systems, facilities, and processes, or a breach, including cyber-attacks, in the security of our systems, could have significant, negative impact on our business, result in the disclosure of confidential information, and create significant financial and legal exposure for us.
 
Our businesses are dependent on our ability and the ability of our third-party service providers to process, record and monitor a large number of transactions. If the financial, accounting, data processing or other operating systems and facilities fail to operate properly, become disabled, experience security breaches or have other significant shortcomings, our results of operations could be materially, adversely affected.
 
Although we and our third party service providers devote significant resources to maintain and regularly upgrade our systems and processes that are designed to protect the security of computer systems, software, networks and other technology assets and the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information belonging to us and our customers, there is no assurance that our security systems and those of our third partythird-party service providers will provide absolute security. Financial services institutions and companies engaged in data processing have reported breaches in the security of their websites or other systems, some of which have involved sophisticated and targeted attacks intended to obtain unauthorized access to confidential information, destroy data, disable or degrade service, or sabotage systems, often through the introduction of computer viruses or malware, cyber-attacks and other means. Certain financial institutions in the United States have also experienced attacks from technically sophisticated and well-resourced third parties that were intended to disrupt normal business activities by making internet banking systems inaccessible to customers for extended periods. These “denial-of-service” attacks have not breached our data security systems, but require substantial resources to defend, and may affect customer satisfaction and behavior.
 
Despite our efforts and those of our third party service providers to ensure the integrity of our systems, it is possible that we may not be able to anticipate or to implement effective preventive measures against all security breaches of these types, especially because the techniques used change frequently or are not recognized until launched, and because security attacks can originate from a wide variety of sources, including persons who are involved with organized crime or associated with external service providers or who may be linked to terrorist organizations or hostile foreign governments. Those parties may also attempt to fraudulently induce employees, customers or other users of our systems to disclose sensitive information in order to gain access to our data or that of our customers or clients. These risks may increase in the future as we continue to increase our mobile payments and other internet-based product offerings and expand our internal usage of web-based products and applications. Furthermore, because certain of our employees are working, or may work, remotely, there is an increased risk of disruption to our systems because remote networks and infrastructure may not be as secure as in our office environment. If our security systems were penetrated or circumvented, it could cause serious negative consequences for us, including significant disruption of our operations, misappropriation of our confidential information or that of our customers, or damage our computers or systems and those of our customers and counterparties, and could result in violations of applicable privacy and other laws, financial loss to us or to our customers, loss of confidence in our security measures, customer dissatisfaction, significant litigation exposure, and harm to our reputation, all of which could have a material adverse effect on us.

We depend on qualified employees and key personnel to operate and lead our business, and we may not be able to attract or retain them in the future.

A critical component of our success is the ability to attract, develop and retain highly qualified, skilled lending, operations, information technology, and other employees, as well as managers who are experienced and effective at leading their respective departments. We have an experienced group of senior management and other key personnel that our board of directors believes is capable of managing and growing our business. In many areas of the financial services industry, competition for key personnel is fierce, and the departure of those individuals from our business presents risk that we will be unable to attract, develop and retain suitable successors, which could have a material, adverse impact on our competitive position in the marketplace.




Damage to our reputation could significantly harm our business.26


Our ability to attract and retain customers, employees, and acquisition partnersbusiness is influenced by our reputation. A negative opinion of our business can develop in connection withheavily reliant on a variety of circumstances, includingthird-party service providers.

We rely on a large number of vendors to provide products and services that we need for our day-to-day operations, particularly in the areas of loan and deposit operations, information technology, and security. This reliance exposes us to the risk that the vendors will not perform in accordance with the applicable contractual arrangements or service level agreements, as well as risks resulting from defective products, poor performance of services, disruption in a product or service, vendor contracts, or loss of a product or service if a vendor ceases doing business because of its own financial or operational difficulties. These risks, if realized, could result in significant disruptions to our business, which could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations. While we maintain a vendor management program designed to assist in the oversight and monitoring of our third-party service providers, there can be no assurance that we will not experience service-related issues associated with our lending practices, regulatory compliance, risk management,vendors.
Our controls and procedures may fail, or our employees may not adhere to them.

It is critical that our internal controls, disclosure controls and procedures, and corporate governance customer service, community involvement, integrationpolicies and procedures be effective in order to provide assurance that our financial reports and disclosures are materially accurate. A failure or circumvention of acquired institutions,our controls and third-party service providers. Our reputationprocedures, or a failure to comply with regulations related to controls and procedures, could also be harmed through regulatory proceedings by governmental authorities, litigation, or cybersecurity events. Reputational damagehave a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations, as well as cause reputational harm, which could also impact our relationships with investors, our credit ratings andlimit our ability to access the capital markets.

Errors or mistakes in the provision of services to our customers or in carrying out our own transactions can subject us to liability, result in losses, or otherwise negatively impact our business.

In our business activities, including the provision of banking services to our customers and the management of our own investments and other assets, we effect or process, sometimes on a manual basis, a large volume of transactions representing very large amounts of money for our customers and ourselves. Errors or mistakes in these activities (including human error and systems error), as well as other failures to mitigate operational risks, can have adverse consequences, including exposing us to liability and loss and, in the case of providing services to our customers, preventing us from receiving certain contractual protections.
Accounting standards periodically change, and the application of our accounting policies and methods may require management to make estimates about matters that are uncertain.

The regulatory bodies that establish accounting standards, including, among others, the FASB and the SEC, periodically revise or issue new financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. The effect of such revised or new standards on our financial statements can be difficult to predict and can materially impact how we record and report our financial condition and results of operations. For example, in June 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-13, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, that substantially changed the accounting for credit losses and other financial assets held by banks, financial institutions and other organizations. The standard removed the existing “probable” threshold in generally accepted accounting principles (“US GAAP”) for recognizing credit losses and instead requires companies to reflect their estimate of credit losses over the life of the financial assets. Companies must consider all relevant information when estimating expected credit losses, including details about past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. We adopted an optional three-year phase-in period for the day-one adverse regulatory capital impact upon adoption of the standard with the additional two-year delay allowed by regulators in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The adoption of the standard resulted in an overall material increase in the allowance for credit losses. However, the impact at adoption was influenced by our portfolios' composition and quality at the adoption date and economic conditions and forecasts at that time.
In addition, our management must exercise judgment in appropriately applying many of our accounting policies and methods so they comply with generally accepted accounting principles. In some cases, management may have to select a particular accounting policy or method from two or more alternatives. In some cases, the accounting policy or method chosen might be reasonable under the circumstances and yet might result in our reporting materially different amounts than would have been reported if we had selected a different policy or method. Accounting policies are critical to fairly presenting our financial condition and results of operations and may require management to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments about matters that are uncertain.



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Risks Related to the Company’s Legal and Regulatory Environment

Financial legislative and regulatory initiatives could adversely affect the results of our operations.
We are subject to extensive governmental regulation, supervision, legislation, and control. For instance, in response to the financial crisis affecting the banking system and financial markets, the Dodd-Frank Act was enacted in 2010, as well as several programs that have been initiated by the U.S. Treasury, the FRB, and the FDIC.     See “Item 1. Business - Supervision and Regulation” included herein for more information regarding regulatory burden and supervision.
Some of the provisions of legislation and regulation that have adversely impacted the Company include the “Durbin Amendment” to the Dodd-Frank Act, which mandates a limit to debit card interchange fees, and Regulation E amendments to the EFTA regarding overdraft fees. Future financial legislation and regulatory initiatives can limit the type of products we offer, the methods by which we offer them, and the prices at which they are offered. These provisions can also increase our costs in offering these products.

The CFPB, Federal Reserve, and Arkansas State Bank Department have broad rulemaking, supervisory and examination authority, as well as data collection and enforcement powers. The scope and impact of the regulators’ actions can significantly impact the operations of the Company and its subsidiaries and the financial services industry in general.
These laws, regulations, and changes can increase our costs of regulatory compliance. They also can significantly affect the markets in which we do business, the markets for and value of our investments, and our ongoing operations, costs, and profitability. The ultimate impact of the provisions in legislative and regulatory initiatives on the Company’s business and results of operations also depends upon regulatory interpretation and rulemaking. As a result, we are unable to predict the ultimate impact of future legislation or regulation, 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.

Our failure to comply with applicable banking laws and regulations could result in significant monetary penalties and losses, restrict our ability to execute our growth strategy, and have other material adverse impacts on our business.

We are charged with maintaining compliance with all applicable banking laws and regulations, including, among others, fair lending, CRA, consumer compliance, BSA and anti-money laundering, capital, and other regulations described herein under “Item 1. Business - Supervision and Regulation.” Various agencies, including, without limitation, the FRB, CFPB, Arkansas State Bank Department, and the Department of Justice, have the ability to institute proceedings to address compliance failures. Should those agencies be successful in the case of such a proceeding, we could become subject to material sanctions, including, among other things, monetary penalties and restrictions on our ability to engage in mergers and acquisitions and other growth-oriented activities. Compliance failures may also result in litigation instituted by private parties, including consumers, which could result in material adverse impacts on our business.

We are subject to litigation in the ordinary course of our business, and adverse rulings, judgements, settlements, and other outcomes of such litigation, as well as our associated legal expenses, may adversely affect our results.

From time to time, we are subject to litigation. Litigation and claims can arise in various contexts, including, among others, our lending activities, deposit activities, employment practices, commercial agreements, fiduciary responsibilities, compliance programs and other general business matters. These claims and legal actions, including supervisory actions by our regulators, could involve large amounts in controversy, significant fines or penalties, and substantial legal costs necessary for our defense. The outcome of litigation and regulatory matters, as well as the timing associated with resolving these matters, are inherently hard to predict. Substantial legal liability, which may not be insured, and significant regulatory actions against us could materially and adversely impact our business operations, including our ability to engage in mergers and acquisitions, our results of operations and our financial condition.



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The Federal Reserve Board’s source of strength doctrine could require that we divert capital to our subsidiary bank instead of applying available capital towards planned uses, such as engaging in acquisitions or paying dividends to shareholders.

The FRB’s policies and regulations require that a bank holding company, including a financial holding company, serve as a source of financial strength to its subsidiary banks, and further provide that a bank holding company may not conduct operations in an unsafe or unsound manner. It is the FRB’s policy that a bank holding company should stand ready to use available resources to provide adequate capital to its subsidiary banks during periods of financial stress or adversity, such as during periods of significant loan losses, and that such holding company should maintain the financial flexibility and capital-raising capacity to obtain additional resources for assisting its subsidiary banks if such a need were to arise.

A bank holding company’s failure to meet its obligations to serve as a source of strength to its subsidiary banks will generally be considered an unsafe and unsound banking practice or a violation of the FRB’s regulations, or both. Accordingly, if the financial condition of our subsidiary bank was to deteriorate, we could be compelled to provide financial support to our subsidiary bank at a time when, absent such FRB policy, we may not deem it advisable to provide such assistance. Under such circumstances, there is a possibility that we may not either have adequate available capital or feel sufficiently confident regarding our financial condition, to enter into acquisitions, pay dividends, or engage in other corporate activities.

We may incur environmental liabilities with respect to properties to which we take title.
 
A significant portion of our loan portfolio is secured by real property.estate. In the course of our business, we may own or foreclose and take title to real estate and could become subject to environmental liabilities with respect to these properties. We may become responsible to a governmental agency or third parties for property damage, personal injury, investigation and clean-up costs incurred by those parties in connection with environmental contamination, or may be required to investigate or clean-up hazardous or toxic substances, or chemical releases at a property. The costs associated with environmental investigation or remediation activities could be substantial. If we were to become subject to significant environmental liabilities, it could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

We may be subject to allegations of intellectual property infringement or may fail to effectively protect our own intellectual property rights.

Our management has broad discretion overcompetition, or other third parties, may allege that we have violated their intellectual property rights. For example, we may unintentionally infringe upon the rights of third parties through the use of proceeds from future stock offerings.
Although we generally indicateinfringing software or other types of content provided by vendors. Alternatively, failure to effectively protect our intent to use the proceeds from stock offerings for general corporate purposes, including funding internal growthown intellectual property through trade secret, copyright, patents, and selected future acquisitions, our Board of Directors retains significant discretion with respectother legal means may result in it being used to the usebenefit of others and to the proceeds from possible future offerings. If we use the funds to acquire other businesses, there can be no assurance that any business we acquire will be successfully integrated intodetriment of our operations or otherwise perform as expected.

Our business is heavily reliant on a varietybusiness. A successful claim of third-party service providers.

We rely on a large number of vendors to provide products and services that we need for our day-to-day operations, particularly in the areas of loan and deposit operations, information technology, and security. This reliance exposesinfringement could subject us to money damages, require significant license or royalty fees, or result in restrictions preventing us from using certain software or technology, thereby impeding our delivery of products or services. Even if ultimately unsuccessful, the risk that the vendors will not perform in accordance with the applicable contractual arrangements or service level agreements, as well as risks resulting from defective products, poor performance of services, disruption in a product or service, or lossfinancial cost of a product or service if a vendor ceases doing business becauselegal defense and the diversion of its own financial or operational difficulties. These risks, if realized, could result in significant disruptions to our business, which could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations. While we maintain a vendor management program designed to assist in the oversight and monitoring of our third-party service providers, there can be no assurance that we will not experience service-related issues associated with our vendors.



If we are unsuccessful in developing new, and adapting our current, products and services so that they respond to changing industry standards and customer preferences,management’s attention from our business may suffer.prove costly.

We provide a variety of commercial and consumer banking, as well as other financial, products and services designed to meet a broad range of needs. While many of these products and services are traditional both in their characteristics and their delivery channels, advancements in technology, changes in the regulatory environment, and evolving customer preferences require that we continuously evaluate the terms under which we provide our existing products and services (including, among other things, interest rates and loan covenants), the methods by which we deliver them (including the use of online and mobile banking), and the potential for new products and services in order to remain competitive. These efforts, though, could require substantial investments, and we can provide no assurance that we will develop new products and services, or adequately adapt our existing products and services, in a timely or successful manner. Our inability to do so could harm our business and adversely affect our results of operations and reputation.

Our controls and procedures may fail, or our employees may not adhere to them.

It is critical that our internal controls, disclosure controls and procedures, and corporate governance policies and procedures be effective in order to provide assurance that our financial reports and disclosures are materially accurate. A failure or circumvention of our controls and procedures, or a failure to comply with regulations related to controls and procedures, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations, as well as cause reputational harm, which could limit our ability to access the capital markets.
Risks Related to Owning Our Stockthe Company’s Securities
 
The holders of our subordinated notes and subordinated debentures have rights that are senior to those of our common shareholders. If we defer payments of interest on our outstanding subordinated debentures or if certain defaults relating to those debentures occur, we will be prohibited from declaring or paying dividends or distributions on, and from making liquidation payments with respect to, our common stock.
 
We have subordinated debentures issued in connection with trust preferred securities. Payments of the principal and interest on the trust preferred securities are unconditionally guaranteed by us. The subordinated debentures are senior to our shares of common stock. As a result, we must make payments on the subordinated debentures (and the related trust preferred securities) before any dividends can be paid on our common stock. In addition, in the event of our bankruptcy, dissolution or liquidation, the holders of both the subordinated debentures and the subordinated notes must be satisfied before any distributions can be made to the holders of our common stock. We have the right to defer distributions on the subordinated debentures (and the related trust preferred securities) for up to five years, during which time no dividends may be paid to holders of our capital stock. If we elect to defer or if we default with respect to our obligations to make payments on these subordinated debentures, this would likely have a material adverse effect on the market value of our common stock. Moreover, without notice to or consent from the holders of our common stock, we may issue additional series of subordinated debt securities in the future with terms similar to those of our existing subordinated debt securities or enter into other financing agreements that limit our ability to purchase or to pay dividends or distributions on our capital stock.
 


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We may be unable to, or choose not to, pay dividends on our common stock.
 
We cannot assure you of our ability to continue to pay dividends. Our ability to pay dividends depends on the following factors, among others:
 
We may not have sufficient earnings since our primary source of income, the payment of dividends to us by our subsidiary bank, is subject to federal and state laws that limit the ability of those banksthe bank to pay dividends;
FRB policy requires bank holding companies to pay cash dividends on common stock only out of net income available over the past year and only if prospective earnings retention is consistent with the organization’s expected future needs and financial condition; and
Our Board of Directors may determine that, even though funds are available for dividend payments, retaining the funds for internal uses, such as expansion of our operations, is a better strategy.

If we fail to pay dividends, capital appreciation, if any, of our common stock may be the sole opportunity for gains on an investment in our common stock. In addition, in the event our subsidiary bank becomes unable to pay dividends to us, we may not be able to service our debt or pay our other obligations or pay dividends on our common stock. Accordingly, our inability to receive dividends from our subsidiary bank could also have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and the value of your investment in our common stock. Our subsidiary bank’s ability to pay dividends or make other payments to us, as well as our ability to pay dividends on our common stock, is limited by the bank’s obligation to maintain sufficient capital and by other general regulatory restrictions on its dividends, including restrictions imposed by state laws and regulations.


There may be future sales of additional common stock or preferred stock or other dilution of our equity, which may adversely affect the value of our common stock.
 
We are not restricted from issuing additional common stock or preferred stock, including any securities that are convertible into or exchangeable for, or that represent the right to receive, common stock or preferred stock or any substantially similar securities. The value of our common stock could decline as a result of sales by us of a large number of shares of common stock or preferred stock or similar securities in the market or the perception that such sales could occur.

Shares of our common stock, as well as our other securities, are not insured deposits and may lose value.

Shares of the Company’s common stock, as well as our other securities, are not savings accounts, deposits, or other obligations of any depository institution, and those shares are not insured by the FDIC or any other governmental agency or instrumentality or private insurer. Investments in shares of the Company’s common stock or other securities, therefore, are subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of principal.
 
Anti-takeover provisions could negatively impact our shareholders.
 
Provisions of our articles of incorporation and by-laws and federal banking laws, including regulatory approval requirements, could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us, even if doing so would be perceived to be beneficial to our shareholders. The combination of these provisions effectively inhibits a non-negotiated merger or other business combination, which, in turn, could adversely affect the market price of our common stock. These provisions could also discourage proxy contests and make it more difficult for holders of our common stock to elect directors other than the candidates nominated by our Board of Directors.

Risks Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic conditions have adversely impacted our business, and may adversely impact our business in the future, as well as that of our customers and third-party vendors.

The COVID-19 pandemic and responses to it have impacted, and may continue to impact, our business, results of operations, and financial condition, as well as those of our customers and third-party vendors. The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant disruptions to the global economy and the lives of people around the world. As a result of the pandemic, governmental authorities, businesses, and the public have taken unprecedented actions designed to limit the scope and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as mitigate its effects. We are unable to determine how long it may take for the pandemic to fully subside.



30


Changes due to COVID-19 may continue to have adverse impacts on the Company’s business due to, among other things, reduced effectiveness of operations, supply-chain challenges, unavailability of personnel (including due to illness), and increased cybersecurity risks related to use of remote technology. We may experience financial losses and declines in our financial condition due to a number of factors associated with the pandemic, including, among other things, deteriorations in credit quality, past due loans, challenges faced by our third-party vendors who provide key services, and charge offs resulting from difficulties faced by our hospitality, retail, restaurant, energy, and other borrowers as a result of the pandemic and responses to it (although these difficulties recently seem to be improving).

The COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to significant volatility in the financial markets. Depending on the extent and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, and perceptions regarding national and global recovery from the pandemic, volatility in the financial markets may continue which may adversely impact the price of the Company’s common stock.

The Company may still experience adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic based on future developments, including, among other things, how long the pandemic lasts, how successful vaccination efforts are, the significant spread of new strains of the virus, and whether additional restrictions are imposed on businesses and individuals. Even after the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, we may continue to experience adverse impacts to our business as a result of any economic recession or depression that has occurred or may occur in the future, or as a result of changes in the behavior of customers, businesses and their employees. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic may also have the effect of heightening many of the other risks described herein and in other filings we make with the SEC.

General Risk Factors

Our management has broad discretion over the use of proceeds from future stock offerings.
Although we generally indicate our intent to use the proceeds from stock offerings for general corporate purposes, including funding internal growth and selected future acquisitions, our Board of Directors retains significant discretion with respect to the use of the proceeds from possible future offerings. If we use the funds to acquire other businesses, there can be no assurance that any business we acquire will be successfully integrated into our operations or otherwise perform as expected.

Our recent results do not indicate our future results and may not provide guidance to assess the risk of an investment in our common stock.
We may not be able to sustain our historical rate of growth or be able to expand our business. Various factors, such as economic conditions, regulatory and legislative considerations and competition, may also impede or prohibit our ability to expand our market presence. We may also be unable to identify advantageous acquisition opportunities or, once identified, enter into transactions to make such acquisitions. If we are not able to successfully grow our business, our financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Weather-related events or natural or man-made disasters could cause a disruption in our business or have other effects which could adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations.

We have operations in the mid-south and certain great plains states, areas susceptible to tornados and severe weather events. In addition, our operations and a significant number of our branches are located in the New Madrid Seismic Zone. While we have in place a business continuity plan, such events could potentially disrupt our operations or result in physical damage to our branch office locations. Severe weather events or earthquakes could also impact the value of any collateral we hold, or significantly disrupt the local economies in the markets that we serve, manifesting in a decline in loan originations, as well as an increase in the risk of delinquencies, defaults, and foreclosures.


31


ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
 
None.
 
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES 

The principal offices of the Company and of its leadsubsidiary bank, Simmons Bank, consist of an eleven-story office building and adjacent office space located in the centraldowntown business district of the city of Pine Bluff, Arkansas. A portion of those offices is subject to a ground lease that expires March 31, 2057. We have additional corporate offices located in Little Rock, Arkansas, including a twelve-story office building in Little Rock’s River Market district.
 
The Company and its subsidiaries own or lease additional offices in the states of Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas. The Company and its subsidiaries conduct financial operations from approximately 251230 financial centers located in communities throughout Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas. We believe our properties to beare suitable and adequate for our present operations.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
The Company and/or its subsidiaries have various unrelated legal proceedings, most of which involve loan foreclosure activity pending, which,information contained in the aggregate, are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition, or results of operationsNote 22, Contingent Liabilities, of the Company and its subsidiaries.Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
 
Not applicable.


24



PART II
 
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
 
Our common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “SFNC.”
 
As of February 25, 2020,21, 2023, there were 2,416approximately 2,501 shareholders of record of our common stock. See the Cash Dividends discussion in the Capital section of Part II, Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, for additional information regarding cash dividends.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

On October 22, 2019, we announced thatEffective July 23, 2021, our Board of Directors authorizedapproved an amendment to the Company’s stock repurchase program originally approved in October 2019 and first amended in March 2020 (“2019 Program”) that increased the amount of our Class A Common Stock that may be repurchased under the 2019 Program from a maximum of $180 million to a maximum of $276.5 million and extended the term of the 2019 Program from October 31, 2021, to October 31, 2022. The repurchase authorization under the 2019 Program was substantially exhausted during January 2022.

On January 27, 2022, we announced a new stock repurchase program (the “Program”“2022 Program”) under which we may repurchase up to $60,000,000$175.0 million of our Class A common stockCommon Stock currently issued and outstanding. The 2022 Program replaced the 2019 Program. The timing, pricing, and amount of any repurchases under the 2022 Program will terminatebe determined by management at its discretion based on October 31, 2021 (unless terminated sooner)a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, trading volume and replacesmarket price of our common stock, corporate considerations, the previous stockCompany working capital and investment requirements, general market and economic conditions, and legal requirements. Under the 2022 Program, we may repurchase program, which was announced on July 23, 2012, that authorizedshares of our Class A Common Stock through open market and privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. The 2022 Program does not obligate us to repurchase upany of our Class A Common Stock and may be modified, discontinued, or suspended at any time without prior notice. We anticipate funding for the 2022 Program to 1,700,000come from available sources of liquidity, including cash on hand and future cash flow.

The Company made no purchases of its common stock during the three months ended December 31, 2022. Under the 2022 Program, the Company has approximately $79.9 million of remaining funds that may be used to repurchase shares of common stock. Under the Program, we repurchased shares during the fourth quarter 2019 on the open market. Information associated with the Program is included in the following table:

Company’s Class A Common Stock.
Period
Total Number of Shares Purchased (1)
 Average Price Paid per Share Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
October 1 - 31, 2019774
 $24.77
 
 $60,000,000
November 1 - 30, 2019190,502
 25.58
 190,000
 $55,140,000
December 1 - 31, 2019201,522
 26.33
 200,000
 $49,870,000
Total392,798
 $25.96
 390,000
  
_________________________ 
(1)Total number of shares purchased includes 2,798 shares with an average price of $25.12 of restricted stock purchased in connection with employee tax withholding obligations under employee compensation plans, which are not purchases under any publicly announced plan.
32




Performance Graph
 
The performance graph below compares the cumulative total shareholder return on the Company’s Common Stock with the cumulative total return onof the equity securities of companies included in the Nasdaq CompositeRussell 2000 Index and the SNL U.S. Bank & ThriftKBW Regional Banking Index. The graph assumes an investment of $100 on December 31, 20142017 and reinvestment of dividends on the date of payment without commissions. The performance graph represents past performance and should not be considered as an indication of future performance. 

chart-f2bb64dcad0255408e9.jpgsfnc-20221231_g2.jpg
 Period Ending
Index12/31/201712/31/201812/31/201912/31/202012/31/202112/31/2022
Simmons First National Corporation100.00 86.23 98.21 82.40 115.63 87.16 
Russell 2000 Index100.00 88.99 111.70 134.00 153.85 122.41 
KBW Nasdaq Regional Banking Index100.00 82.50 102.15 93.25 127.42 118.59 

  Period Ending
Index 12/31/2014 12/31/2015 12/31/2016 12/31/2017 12/31/2018 12/31/2019
Simmons First National Corporation 100.00
 128.87
 158.94
 148.70
 128.26
 146.07
Nasdaq Composite 100.00
 106.96
 116.45
 150.96
 146.67
 200.49
SNL U.S. Bank & Thrift 100.00
 102.02
 128.80
 151.45
 125.81
 170.04


26



ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following table sets forth consolidated selected financial data concerning the Company and should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by, the detailed information and consolidated financial statements, including notes thereto, included elsewhere in this report. The income statement, balance sheet and per common share data as of and for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015, were derived from consolidated financial statements of the Company, which were audited by BKD, LLP. Results from past periods are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for any future period.
Management believes that certain non-GAAP measures, including core diluted earnings per share, tangible book value, the ratio of tangible common equity to tangible assets, tangible stockholders’ equity, core return on average assets, core return on average common equity, return on average tangible equity, core return on average tangible equity, and efficiency ratio may be useful to analysts and investors in evaluating the performance of our Company. We have included certain of these non-GAAP measures, including cautionary remarks regarding the usefulness of these analytical tools, in this table. The consolidated selected financial data set forth below should be read in conjunction with the financial statements of the Company and related notes thereto and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included elsewhere in this report. See the “GAAP Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for additional discussion of non-GAAP measures.

[RESERVED]

33
 Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands, except per common share data, ratios & other data)2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Income statement data: 
  
  
  
  
Interest income$786,645
 $680,687
 $395,004
 $301,005
 $300,948
Interest expense181,370
 128,135
 40,074
 21,799
 22,353
Net interest income605,275
 552,552
 354,930
 279,206
 278,595
Provision for loan losses43,240
 38,148
 26,393
 20,065
 9,022
Net interest income after provision for loan losses562,035
 514,404
 328,537
 259,141
 269,573
Non-interest income201,509
 143,896
 138,765
 139,382
 94,661
Non-interest expense461,112
 392,229
 312,379
 255,085
 256,970
Income before taxes302,432
 266,071
 154,923
 143,438
 107,264
Provision for income taxes64,265
 50,358
 61,983
 46,624
 32,900
Net income238,167
 215,713
 92,940
 96,814
 74,364
Preferred stock dividends339
 
 
 24
 257
Net income available to common stockholders$237,828
 $215,713
 $92,940
 $96,790
 $74,107
          
Per common share data(9):
 
  
  
  
  
Basic earnings2.42
 2.34
 1.34
 1.58
 1.32
Diluted earnings2.41
 2.32
 1.33
 1.56
 1.31
Core diluted earnings (non-GAAP) (1)
2.73
 2.37
 1.70
 1.64
 1.59
Book value26.30
 24.33
 22.65
 18.40
 17.27
Tangible book value (non-GAAP) (2)
15.89
 14.18
 12.34
 11.98
 10.98
Dividends0.64
 0.60
 0.50
 0.48
 0.46
Basic average common shares outstanding98,350,992
 92,268,131
 69,384,500
 61,291,296
 56,167,592
Diluted average common shares outstanding98,796,628
 92,830,485
 69,852,920
 61,927,092
 56,419,322
          


 Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands, except per common share data, ratios & other data)2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Balance sheet data at period end:         
Total assets$21,259,143
 $16,543,337
 $15,055,806
 $8,400,056
 $7,559,658
Investment securities3,494,265
 2,440,946
 1,957,575
 1,619,450
 1,526,780
Total loans14,425,260
 11,723,171
 10,779,685
 5,632,890
 4,919,355
Allowance for loan losses (excluding loans acquired) (3)
67,800
 56,599
 41,668
 36,286
 31,351
Goodwill and other intangible assets1,182,860
 937,021
 948,722
 401,464
 380,923
Non-interest bearing deposits3,741,093
 2,672,405
 2,665,249
 1,491,676
 1,280,234
Deposits16,108,940
 12,398,752
 11,092,875
 6,735,219
 6,086,096
Other borrowings1,297,599
 1,345,450
 1,380,024
 273,159
 162,289
Subordinated debt and trust preferred388,260
 353,950
 140,565
 60,397
 60,570
Stockholders’ equity2,988,924
 2,246,434
 2,084,564
 1,151,111
 1,076,855
Tangible stockholders’ equity (non-GAAP) (2)
1,805,297
 1,309,413
 1,135,842
 749,647
 665,080
          
Capital ratios at period end:         
Common stockholders’ equity to total assets14.06% 13.58% 13.85% 13.70% 13.84%
Tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP) (4)
8.99% 8.39% 8.05% 9.37% 9.26%
Tier 1 leverage ratio9.59% 8.78% 9.21% 10.95% 11.20%
Common equity Tier 1 risk-based ratio10.92% 10.22% 9.80% 13.45% 14.21%
Tier 1 risk-based ratio10.92% 10.22% 9.80% 14.45% 16.02%
Total risk-based capital ratio13.73% 13.35% 11.35% 15.12% 16.72%
Dividend payout to common stockholders26.56% 25.86% 37.59% 30.67% 34.98%
          
Annualized performance ratios:         
Return on average assets1.33% 1.37% 0.92% 1.25% 1.03%
Core return on average assets (non-GAAP) (1)
1.51% 1.40% 1.18% 1.31% 1.25%
Return on average common equity9.93% 10.00% 6.68% 8.75% 7.90%
Core return on average common equity (non-GAAP) (1)
11.25% 10.21% 8.56% 9.17% 9.55%
Return on average tangible equity (non-GAAP) (2) (5)
17.99% 18.44% 11.26% 13.92% 12.53%
Core return on average tangible equity (non-GAAP) (1) (2) (5)
20.31% 18.81% 14.28% 14.56% 15.05%
Net interest margin (6)
3.83% 3.97% 4.07% 4.19% 4.55%
Efficiency ratio (non-GAAP) (7)
50.33% 52.85% 55.27% 56.32% 59.01%
          
Balance sheet ratios: (8)
         
Nonperforming assets as a percentage of period-end assets0.43% 0.37% 0.52% 0.79% 0.85%
Nonperforming loans as a percentage of period-end loans0.74% 0.41% 0.81% 0.91% 0.58%
Nonperforming assets as a percentage of period-end loans and OREO0.96% 0.72% 1.38% 1.53% 1.94%
Allowance to nonperforming loans95.37% 164.41% 90.26% 92.09% 165.83%
Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of period-end loans0.70% 0.67% 0.73% 0.84% 0.97%
Net charge-offs (recoveries) as a percentage of average loans0.31% 0.29% 0.35% 0.40% 0.24%
          


 Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands, except per common share data, ratios & other data)2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Other data:         
Number of financial centers251
 191
 200
 150
 149
Number of full time equivalent employees3,270
 2,654
 2,640
 1,875
 1,946
_________________________ 
(1)Core diluted earnings per share is a non-GAAP financial measure. Core diluted earnings per share excludes from net income certain non-core items and then is divided by average diluted common shares outstanding. See “GAAP Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for a GAAP reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure.
(2)Because of Simmons’ significant level of intangible assets, total goodwill and core deposit premiums, management of Simmons believes a useful calculation for investors in their analysis of Simmons is tangible book value per share, which is a non-GAAP financial measure. Tangible book value per share is calculated by subtracting goodwill and other intangible assets from total common stockholders’ equity, and dividing the resulting number by the common stock outstanding at period end. See “GAAP Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for a GAAP reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure.
(3)The allowance for loan losses related to loans acquired (not shown in the table above) was $444,000, $95,000, and $418,000 for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively, and $954,000 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015. The total allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015 was $68,244,000, $56,694,000, $42,086,000, $37,240,000, and $32,305,000, respectively.
(4)Tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio is a non-GAAP financial measure. The tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio is calculated by dividing total common stockholders’ equity less goodwill and other intangible assets (resulting in tangible common equity) by total assets less goodwill and other intangible assets as of and for the periods ended presented above. See “GAAP Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for a GAAP reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure.
(5)Return on average tangible equity is a non-GAAP financial measure that removes the effect of goodwill and other intangible assets, as well as the amortization of intangibles, from the return on average equity. This non-GAAP financial measure is calculated as net income, adjusted for the tax-effected effect of intangibles, divided by average tangible equity which is calculated as average stockholders’ equity for the period presented less goodwill and other intangible assets. See “GAAP Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for a GAAP reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure.
(6)Net interest margin is presented on a fully taxable equivalent basis that consists of dividing tax-exempt income by one minus the combined federal and state income tax rate of 26.135% for periods beginning January 1, 2018 or 39.225% for periods prior to 2018.
(7)The efficiency ratio is a non-GAAP financial measure that is noninterest expense before foreclosed property expense and amortization of intangibles as a percent of net interest income (fully taxable equivalent) and noninterest revenues, excluding gains and losses from securities transactions and non-core items. See “GAAP Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for a reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure.
(8)Excludes all loans acquired except for their inclusion in total assets.
(9)Share and per share amounts have been restated for the two-for-one stock split in February 2018.


29



ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis presents the more significant factors that affected our financial condition as of December 31, 2022 and 2021 and results of operations for each of the years then ended. Refer to “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 25, 2022 (the “2021 Form 10-K”) for a discussion and analysis of the more significant factors that affected periods prior to 2021, which are incorporated herein by reference. Certain reclassifications have been made to make prior periods comparable. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our financial statements, notes thereto and other financial information appearing elsewhere in this report, as well as the cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements and the risks discussed in Item 1A of Part I of this Form 10-K.

Critical Accounting Policies & Estimates

Overview
 
We follow accounting and reporting policies that conform, in all material respects, to generally accepted accounting principles and to general practices within the financial services industry. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principlesUS GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. While we base estimates on historical experience, current information and other factors deemed to be relevant, actual results could differ from those estimates.
 
We consider accounting estimates to be critical to reported financial results if (i) the accounting estimate requires management to make assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain and (ii) different estimates that management reasonably could have used for the accounting estimate in the current period, or changes in the accounting estimate that are reasonably likely to occur from period to period, could have a material impact on our financial statements.
 
The accounting policies that we view as critical to us are those relating to estimates and judgments regarding (a) the determination of the adequacy of the allowance for loancredit losses, (b) acquisition accounting and valuation of loans, (c) the valuation of goodwill and the useful lives applied to intangible assets, (d) the valuation of stock-based compensation plans and (e) income taxes.

Allowance for LoanCredit Losses on Loans Not Acquired
 
The allowance for loancredit losses is a reserve established through a provision for credit losses charged to expense, which represents management’s best estimate of probablelifetime expected losses based on reasonable and supportable forecasts, historical loss experience, and other qualitative considerations. The allowance, in the judgment of management, is necessary to reserve for expected credit losses and risks inherent in the loan portfolio. LoanOur allowance for credit loss methodology includes reserve factors calculated to estimate current expected credit losses are charged againstto amortized cost balances over the remaining contractual life of the portfolio, adjusted for prepayments, in accordance with Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) Topic 326-20, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses. Accordingly, the methodology is based on our reasonable and supportable economic forecasts, historical loss experience, and other qualitative adjustments. For further information see the section Allowance for Credit Losses below.

Our evaluation of the allowance when management believesfor credit losses is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates. The actual amounts of credit losses realized in the uncollectability of a loan balance is confirmed. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are creditednear term could differ from the amounts estimated in arriving at the allowance for credit losses reported in the financial statements. On January 1, 2020, the Company adopted the new Current Expected Credit Losses, or “CECL”, methodology. See Note 20, New Accounting Standards, in the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Prior to the allowance.
Theadoption of the CECL methodology in 2020, the allowance for loancredit losses iswas calculated monthly based on management’s assessment of several factors such as (1) historical loss experience based on volumes and types, (2) volume and trends in delinquencies and nonaccruals, (3) lending policies and procedures including those for loancredit losses, collections and recoveries, (4) national, state and local economic trends and conditions, (5) external factors and pressure from competition, (6) the experience, ability and depth of lending management and staff, (7) seasoning of new products obtained and new markets entered through acquisition and (8) other factors and trends that will affectaffected specific loans and categories of loans. We establishestablished general allocations for each major loan category. This category also includesincluded allocations to loans which arewere collectively evaluated for loss such as credit cards, one-to-four family owner occupied residential real estate loans and other consumer loans. General reserves have beenwere established, based upon the aforementioned factors and allocated to the individual loan categories. Allowances arewere accrued for probable losses on specific loans evaluated for impairment for which the basis of each loan, including accrued interest, exceedsexceeded the discounted amount of expected future collections of interest and principal or, alternatively, the fair value of loan collateral.

Our evaluation of the allowance for loan losses is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates. The actual amounts of loan losses realized in the near term could differ from the amounts estimated in arriving at the allowance for loan losses reported in the financial statements.34


On January 1, 2020, the Company was required to adopt a new credit loss methodology, the Current Expected Credit Losses (“CECL”) methodology. Therefore, beginning in 2020, our methodology and calculations regarding the allowance for loan losses will change significantly due to a change in accounting guidance. In summary, the new guidance replaces the incurred loss impairment methodology with a methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates and utilizes a lifetime expected credit loss measurement objective. See Note 20, New Accounting Standards, in the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this report for additional information regarding implementation and adoption of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.


Acquisition Accounting, Loans Acquired

We account for our acquisitions under Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”)ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations, which requires the use of the acquisition method of accounting. All identifiable assets acquired, including loans, are recorded at fair value. No allowanceThe fair value for loan losses related to the acquired loans at the time of acquisition is recordedbased on the acquisition date asa variety of factors including discounted expected cash flows, adjusted for estimated prepayments and credit losses. In accordance with ASC 326, the fair value adjustment is recorded as premium or discount to the unpaid principal balance of theeach acquired loan. Loans that have been identified as having experienced a more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since origination are purchased credit deteriorated (“PCD”) loans. The net premium or discount on PCD loans acquired incorporates assumptions regardingis adjusted by our allowance for credit risk. Loans acquired arelosses recorded at fair value in accordance with the fair value methodology prescribed in ASC Topic 820.time of acquisition. The fair value estimates associated with the loans include estimates related to expected prepayments and the amount and timing of undiscounted expected principal, interest and other cash flows.
We evaluate loans acquired in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-20, Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs. The fair valueremaining net premium or discount on these loans is accreted or amortized into interest income over the weighted average life of the loans using a constant yield method. These loans are not considered to be impaired loans. We evaluate purchased impaired loans in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality. Purchased loans are considered impaired if there is evidence of credit deterioration since origination and if it is probable that not all contractually required payments will be collected. A loan acquired is considered impaired if there is evidence of credit deterioration since origination and if it is probable that not all contractually required payments will be collected.
For impaired loans accounted for under ASC Topic 310-30, we continue to estimate cash flows expected to be collected on purchased credit impaired loans. We evaluate at each balance sheet date whether the present value of our purchased credit impaired loans determined using the effective interest rates has decreased significantly and if so, recognize a provision for loan loss in our consolidated statement of income. For any significant increases in cash flows expected to be collected, we adjust the amount of accretable yield recognized on a prospective basis over the remaining life of the purchasedloan using a constant yield method. The net premium or discount on loans that are not classified as PCD (“non-PCD”), that includes credit impaired loan.

As mentioned above, our methodology and calculations regardingnon-credit components, is accreted or amortized into interest income over the remaining life of the loan using a constant yield method. We then record the necessary allowance for loancredit losses will change significantly due to a change in accounting guidance. This change will also impact our accountingon the non-PCD loans through provision for purchased credit impaired loans. See Note 20, New Accounting Standards, in the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this report for additional information regarding implementation and adoption of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.losses expense.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
 
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Other intangible assets represent purchased assets that also lack physical substance but can be separately distinguished from goodwill because of contractual or other legal rights or because the asset is capable of being sold or exchanged either on its own or in combination with a related contract, asset or liability. We perform an annual goodwill impairment test, and more than annually if circumstances warrant, in accordance with ASC Topic 350, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other, as amended by ASU 2011-08 – TTestingesting Goodwill for Impairment and ASU 2017-04 - Intangibles – Goodwill and Other. ASC Topic 350 requires that goodwill and intangible assets that have indefinite lives be reviewed for impairment annually or more frequently if certain conditions occur. Intangible assets with finite livesOur assessment depends on several assumptions which are amortized over the estimated life of the asset,dependent on market and are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicated that the carrying value may not be recoverable.economic conditions. Impairment losses on recorded goodwill, if any, will be recorded as operating expenses.

Employee BenefitStock-Based Compensation Plans
 
We have adopted various stock-based compensation plans. The plans provide for the grant of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and performance stock units. Pursuant to the plans, shares are reserved for future issuance by the Company upon exercise of stock options or awarding of restricted stock, restricted stock units or performance or bonus sharesstock units granted to directors, officers and other key employees.

In accordance with ASC Topic 718, Compensation – Stock Compensation, the fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model that uses various assumptions. This model requires the input of highly subjective assumptions, changes to which can materially affect the fair value estimate. For additional information, see Note 15, Employee Benefit Plans, in the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this report.
 
Income Taxes
 
We are subject to the federal income tax laws of the United States, and the tax laws of the states and other jurisdictions where we conduct business. Due to the complexity of these laws, taxpayers and the taxing authorities may subject these laws to different interpretations. Management must make conclusions and estimates about the application of these innately intricate laws, related regulations, and case law. When preparing the Company’s income tax returns, management attempts to make reasonable interpretations of the tax laws. Taxing authorities have the ability to challenge management’s analysis of the tax law or any


reinterpretation management makes in its ongoing assessment of facts and the developing case law. Management assesses the reasonableness of its effective tax rate quarterly based on its current estimate of net income and the applicable taxes expected for the full year. On a quarterly basis, management also reviews circumstances and developments in tax law affecting the reasonableness of deferred tax assets and liabilities and reserves for contingent tax liabilities.
The adoption of ASU 2016-09 – Compensation-Stock Compensation: Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting decreased the effective tax rate during 2017 and 2018 as the standard impacted how the income tax effects associated with stock-based compensation are recognized.

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20192022 Overview

The following discussion and analysis presents the more significant factors that affected our financial condition as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 and results of operations for each of the years then ended. Refer to “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in our 2018 Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 27, 2019 for a discussion and analysis of the more significant factors that affected periods prior to 2018. Certain reclassifications have been made to make prior periods comparable. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our financial statements, notes thereto and other financial information appearing elsewhere in this report.

Our net income available to common shareholders for the year ended December 31, 20192022 was $237.8$256.4 million, andor $2.06 diluted earnings per share, were $2.41, increases of $22.1compared to $271.1 million, and $0.09, respectively, compared toor $2.46 diluted earnings per share, for the same period in 2018.2021. Included in both 2019 and 20182022 results were non-core$42.2 million of certain items, net of tax, that were primarily related to our acquisitions, Day 2 accounting provision in connection with acquisitions, gain on an insurance settlement related to a weather event, and branch right sizing initiatives, and with respectinitiatives. Included in 2021 results were $23.9 million of certain items, net of tax, that were primarily related to our 2019 results only, early retirement program expenses. Excluding all non-coreacquisitions, Day 2 accounting provision in connection with acquisitions and gains associated with the sale of branches. Adjusting for these certain items, coreadjusted earnings for the year ended December 31, 20192022 were $269.6$298.6 million, or $2.73 core$2.40 adjusted diluted earnings per share, compared to $220.2$295.0 million, or $2.37 core$2.68 adjusted diluted earnings per share, in 2018.2021. See “GAAPGAAP Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”Measures for additional discussion and reconciliationreconciliations of non-GAAP measures.

In additionResults during 2022 were strong and demonstrate our ability to producing remarkable resultsnavigate the current economic environment and volatile market conditions. Highlights for 2019,the year include an increase in revenue, well contained operating expense growth, improved asset quality, strong organic loan growth, expansion of the net interest margin, and excellent capital ratios.

On April 8, 2022 we completed two acquisitions - Relianceour acquisition of Spirit, headquartered in St. Louis, MissouriConroe, Texas, including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Spirit Bank. We were able to obtain all necessary approvals, consummate the transaction and Landrum in Columbia, Missouri -successfully complete the systems conversion less than five months after the announcement, which added a total of $4.9 billion in assets. We had several notable events during 2019 that affected our operating results. First, we recorded $15 million in provision expense primarily relatedbelieve speaks to the charge-off of a participation interest in a shared national credit to White Star Petroleum, LLC (“White Star”) (further discussed below in “Provision for Loan Losses”). Second,outstanding team we sold Visa Inc. class B common stock resulting in a gain of $42.9 million, and in connection with that sale, we contributed $4 million to the Simmons First Foundation so it may continue its work to provide community development grants throughout our footprint. Third, we sold $114 million of primarily commercial real estate (“CRE”) loans resulting in a net loss of $5.1 million.

In April 2019, we completed the acquisition of Reliance. Contemporaneously with the Reliance acquisition, Reliance’s subsidiary bank, Reliance Bank, was merged with and into Simmons Bank, with Simmons Bank as the surviving entity. We are excited about the Reliance transaction and the opportunities we now have in the St. Louis market resulting from our increased presence.developed. See Note 2, Acquisitions, in the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this report, for additional information related to the Landrum and Reliance acquisitions.this acquisition.

In October 2019, we completed the acquisition of Landrum. The systems conversion was completed in February 2020, at which time Landrum’s subsidiary bank, LandmarkSimmons Bank was merged withnamed to Forbes magazine’s list of “World’s Best Banks” for the third consecutive year and into Simmons Bank, with Simmons Bankranked among the top 45 banks in Forbes’ list of “America’s Best Banks” for 2022 and our Chief Digital Officer was recently recognized by American Banker as a 2022 Digital Banker of the Year. We continue our efforts in developing new and innovative products and services using digital channels to provide an enhanced customer experience to “bank when you want, where you want.”

Asset quality metrics remain at historically low levels and reflect our conservative credit culture, as well as the surviving entity.impact of our strategic decision in 2019 designed to de-risk certain elements of loan portfolios that were acquired in connection with our geographic diversification and expansion. As a result of that transaction, we have enhanced our ability to provide quality financial products and services to our customers throughout Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas.

In December 2019, we entered into a Branch Purchase and Assumption Agreement with Spirit of Texas Bank, SSB, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Spirit of Texas Bancshares, Inc., to sell five branches in Austin, San Antonio and Tilden, Texas. See Note 4, Other Assets and Other Liabilities Held for Sale, for additional information related to the sale of these locations.

In 2018, we announced our Next Generation Banking (“NGB”)this strategic initiative that we believe positions us to provide competitive banking services well into the future. Through this program, we have evaluated the primary information technology systems and functions that support our operations and are improving or replacing many of them with updated and/or enhanced banking technologies. This initiative will, among other things, assist us in our efforts to create a differentiated experience for our customers across all channels, including digital.



We are beginning to see changes as a result of our NGB investments. For example, we accomplished a major milestone in the third quarter 2019 when we successfully completed the migration of our core banking platform to our vendor hosted environment. The transition was successful and has increased security and the reliability of our systems. In addition, in October 2019, we successfully launched our new mobile banking application. We believe our new application makes us more competitive in mobile banking, and customer response to date has been very positive. We expect to continue to expand customer offerings through our digital channel.

During 2020, we expect to continue to implement our technology initiatives, including the expansion of our digital offerings, and adjust, as appropriate, our business strategy to take advantage of our successful growthdecision, over the past few years.two years we have prudently and systematically exited certain non-relationship credits and non-core industries while also significantly reducing our exposure to commercial real estate to more acceptable levels. Total nonperforming loans as of December 31, 2022 were $58.9 million, as compared to $68.6 million at December 31, 2021. Non-performing assets, including troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”) and acquired foreclosed assets, as a percent of total assets were 0.23%, compared to 0.33% at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Stockholders’ equity as of December 31, 20192022 was $3.0$3.3 billion, book value per share was $26.30$25.73 and tangible book value per common share was $15.89.$14.33. Our ratio of common stockholders’ equity to total assets was 14.1%11.9% and the ratio of tangible common stockholders’ equity to tangible assets was 9.0%7.0% at December 31, 2019.2022. See “GAAPGAAP Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”Measures for additional discussion and reconciliationreconciliations of non-GAAP measures. The Company’s Tier I leverage ratio of 9.6%9.3%, as well as our other regulatory capital ratios, remain significantly above the “well capitalized” minimum requirements. See Table 1918 – Risk-Based Capital for regulatory capital ratios. In January 2022, our Board of Directors authorized the 2022 Program under which we may repurchase up to $175.0 million of our Class A common stock currently issued and outstanding. The 2022 Program replaced the 2019 Program, which was substantially exhausted during the first quarter of 2022. In total, under the 2019 Program and the 2022 Program, we repurchased approximately 4.4 million shares of our common stock during 2022.
 
Total loans including loans acquired, were $14.4$16.1 billion at December 31, 2019,2022, an increase of $2.7$4.1 billion, or 23.0%34.4%, from the same periodtime in 2018, primarily due to the Landrum and Reliance acquisitions completed during 2019.2021. The increase was partially offset by the reclassification of $260 million in loan balances associated with the branches held for sale in south Texas.

At December 31, 2019, the allowance for loan losses for legacytotal loans was $67.8 million. The allowance for loan losses for loans acquired was $444,000 and the acquired loan discount credit mark was $87.3 million. The allowance for loan losses and discount mark provides a total of $155.5 million of coverage. The ratio of discount mark and related allowance to loans acquired was 1.80%.

As mentioned above, during the year we incurred a loss related toperiod primarily reflects the White Star bankruptcy. The White Star loss is disappointing and contrary to the credit culture at Simmons. Because we were only a participant in the shared national credit, we were limited both in our ability to act unilaterally and in our access to timely information. We have learned some valuable lessons from this experience. We have made changes to our credit underwriting and approval processes that are consistent with our conservative credit culture. We will work to exit all purchased syndicated energy credits. We expect to exit at least $120 millionacquisition of these credits bySpirit during the second quarter of 2020.2022, which provided $2.29 billion in total loans after purchase accounting adjustments, coupled with net loan growth driven by increased activity throughout our geographic footprint.

Total assets were $21.3While activity in our commercial pipeline slowed to $1.1 billion as of December 31, 2022 due to, in large part, the impact of the rapidly rising interest rates and our emphasis on maintaining prudent underwriting standards and pricing discipline, our unfunded commitments increased to $5.6 billion at December 31, 20192022, as compared to $16.5$3.4 billion at December 31, 2018, an increase2021. Our strategy of $4.7 billion, primarily due torestructuring our loan portfolio over the Landrumpast two years not only diversified the risk profile but also established capacity which should provide the foundation for additional loan and Reliance acquisitions.revenue growth, and which is evident in our loan pipeline and unfunded commitments. As of December 31, 2022, our liquidity is solid, and our capital is strong.


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In our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operation in this Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” we provide certain financial information determined by methods other than in accordance with US GAAP. We believe the presentation of non-GAAP financial measures provides a meaningful basis for period-to-period and company-to-company comparisons, which we believe will assist investors and analysts in analyzing the core financial measures of the Company and predicting future performance. See the GAAP Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures section below for additional discussion and reconciliations of non-GAAP measures.

Simmons First National Corporation is an Arkansas-based financial holding company that, as of December 31, 2022, has approximately $27.5 billion in consolidated assets and, through its subsidiaries, conducts financial operations in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas.

Net Interest Income

Net interest income, our principal source of earnings, is the difference between the interest income generated by earning assets and the total interest cost of the deposits and borrowings obtained to fund those assets. Factors that determine the level of net interest income include the volume of earning assets and interest bearing liabilities, yields earned and rates paid, the level of non-performing loans and the amount of non-interestnoninterest bearing liabilities supporting earning assets. Net interest income is analyzed in the discussion and tables below on a fully taxable equivalent basis. The adjustment to convert certain income to a fully taxable equivalent basis consists of dividing tax-exempt income by one minus the combined federal and state income tax rate of 26.135% for periods beginning January 1, 2018 or 39.225% for periods prior to 2018..
 
The Federal Reserve Bank (“FRB”)FRB sets various benchmark interest rates which influence the general market rates of interest, including the deposit and loan rates offered by financial institutions. Between December 2015 and December 2018, the FRB had been gradually raising benchmark interest rates. The FRB target for the federal funds rate, which is the cost to banks of immediately available overnight funds, increased gradually from 0% - 0.25% to 0.25% - 0.50% in December 2015 and gradually increased to 2.25% - 2.50% over a three year period. The federal funds rate was flat until the FRB began to lower the rate in August 2019 and ultimately reduced it to 1.50% - 1.75% in October 2019. During March 2020, the Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) of the FRB substantially reduced interest rates in response to the economic crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. The federal funds rate was cut to a range of 0% - 0.25%, where it remained throughout 2021 and into early 2022. During March 2022, the FOMC began a series of rate increases in an effort to curb rising inflation. Overall in 2022, the federal funds rate range was increased on seven occasions and ended 2022 with a range set at 4.25% - 4.50%. As of early 2023, the FOMC had made one more rate increase, although the 25 basis point increase represents a more gradual increase than seen throughout 2022.

Our loan portfolio is significantly affected by changes in the prime interest rate. The prime interest rate, which is the rate offered on loans to borrowers with strong credit, also increased from 3.25% to 5.50% during the years 2015 through 2018. Similarly to the reduction in the federal funds rate, theThe prime interest rate remained flat until it began to decrease in July 2019 and was eventually reduced to 4.75% in October 2019. Similarly to the reduction in the federal funds rate, the prime rate was cut to 3.25% in mid-March of 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and remained unchanged throughout 2021 and into early 2022. Paralleling the federal funds rate, multiple increases by the Federal Reserve during 2022 increased the prime rate to 7.50% as of the end of 2022. Markets continue to anticipate more gradual rate increases by the Federal Reserve during 2023.

Our practice is to limit exposure to interest rate movements by maintaining a significant portion of earning assets and interest bearing liabilities in short-term repricing. In the last several years, on average, approximately 40%42% of our loan portfolio and approximately 80% of our time deposits have repriced in one year or less. Our current interest rate sensitivity shows that approximately 44%40% of our loans and 66%87% of our time deposits will reprice in the next year.

For the year ended December 31, 2019,2022, net interest income on a fully taxable equivalent basis was $612.6$742.0 million, an increase of $54.7$131.2 million, or 9.8%21.5%, over the same period in 2018.2021. The increase in net interest income was primarily the result of a $108.0$196.1 million increase in interest income, partially offset by a $53.2$64.9 million increase in interest expense.



37


The increase in interest income primarily resulted from an incremental $95.0a $140.3 million ofincrease in interest income on loans, consisting of legacy loans and loans acquired, andcoupled with an increase of $11.5$50.9 million ofin interest income on investment securities. TheRegarding the increase in interest income on loans during 2022, the increase in loan volume during 2019 generated $86.8resulted in an increase of $125.6 million of additionalin interest income, primarily due to the Landrum and Reliance acquisitions completed during the fourth and second quarters, respectively. Furthermore, anwhile a 12 basis point increase in yield of 7 basis points led to an incremental $8.2resulted in a $14.7 million increase in interest income during the year ended December 31, 2019.2022. The loan yield for 2022 was 4.83%, compared to 4.71% for 2021. The increase in our loan volume during 2022 was primarily due to the Spirit acquisition in the second quarter of 2022, along with the acquisitions of Landmark Community Bank (“Landmark”) and Triumph Bancshares, Inc. (“Triumph”) in the fourth quarter of 2021, as well as organic loan growth which was widespread across our geographic markets. Forgiveness of PPP loans partially offset the additional loan volume provided by these acquisitions. The increase in interest income on investment securities was due to our investment portfolio average balances, which increased by $1.31 billion, or 19.1%, during 2022 as we re-invested excess liquidity in our investment security portfolio. Additionally, an aggregated increase of $25.5 million during 2022 in interest income on investment securities was due to yield increases over the period of 42 basis points and 16 basis points for our taxable and non-taxable investment security portfolios, respectively. The increase in both loan and investment yield was due to the rising rate environment and was also positively impacted by a significant decrease in the level of variable rate loans and securities at or below their interest rate floors during the year.

Included in interest income is the additional yield accretion recognized as a result of updated estimates of the cash flows of our loans acquired, as discussed in Note 6, Loans Acquired, in the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this report.acquired. Each quarter, we estimate the cash flows expected to be collected from the loans acquired, and adjustments may or may not be required. The cash flows estimate has increasedmay increase or decrease based on payment histories and reduced loss expectations of the loans. This resulted in increasedThe resulting adjustment to interest income that is spread on a level-yield basis over the remaining expected lives of the loans. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 20172020, interest income included $41.2$23.9 million, $35.3$22.1 million and $27.8$41.5 million, respectively, for the yield accretion recognized on loans acquired.

The $53.2$64.9 million increase in interest expense is primarily relatedmostly due to the growthincrease in our deposit accounts from the 2019 mergers and higher cost of deposits that continued during 2018 through mid-2019 when the benchmark interest rates began to decrease.account rates. Interest expense increased $18.2 million due to deposit growth and $33.6$52.1 million due to the increase in yieldrate of 3534 basis points.points on interest-bearing deposit accounts and increased $5.8 million due to the increase in deposit volume over the period. Additionally, interest expense increased $8.4 million due to the increase in rate of 71 basis points on other borrowings. Impacts to our balance sheet that affected interest expense during 2022 as compared to 2021 include the Spirit, Landmark and Triumph acquisitions noted above, as well as a rising interest rate environment throughout 2022, as the market experiences a shift in consumer sentiment given the attractiveness of higher yielding time deposits in the current higher interest rate environment. We continually monitor and look for opportunities to fairly reprice our deposits while remaining competitive in this current challenging rate environment.

Our net interest margin on a fully tax equivalent basis was 3.83%3.17% for the year ended December 31, 2019, down 142022, up 28 basis points from 2018. Normalized for all accretion, our core net interest margin (non-GAAP) at December 31, 2019 and 2018 was 3.58% and 3.72%, respectively. Since the first quarter 2018, both loan yield and core loan yield have increased 5 basis points while cost of interest bearing deposits has risen 48 basis points and the cost of borrowed funds has increased 60 basis points.2021. The decreaseincrease in both the net interest margin and the core net interest margin for the year ended December 31, 2019 is a direct result of the previous rising rate environment. We expect continued pressure on the net interest margin because of the late 2019 FRB interest rate reductions to continue into the first part of 2020was primarily due to the ability to reprice deposits being outpacedrising rate environment and driven by increases in our loan and investment rates. Further, the immediate downward repricing onoverall increase in our earning assets average balances over the portioncomparative period has improved interest income, coupled with the effective management of our loans that areinterest bearing liabilities, as we continued our effort to improve the mix of deposits into lower cost deposits and manage rates effectively.

Over the course of 2023, we anticipate pressure on our margin due to several factors. We saw strong organic loan growth during 2022, but our loan pipeline experienced decreased volume throughout the year. We expect modest organic loan growth during 2023 in the higher interest rate environment. Additionally, while we increased reliance on wholesale funding towards the end of 2022, we plan to reinvest cash flows from our investment portfolio and other sources back into the loan portfolio to offset reliance on wholesale funding going forward. Further, we have $1.0 billion of fixed rate callable municipal securities held in the AFS portfolio under swap agreements. These swap agreements consist of a two year forward start date and involve the payment of fixed interest rates with a weighted average of 1.21% in exchange for variable rate. See “GAAP Reconciliationinterest rates based on federal funds rates beginning in the third quarter of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for additional discussion and reconciliation of non-GAAP measures.2023.




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Tables 1 and 2 reflect an analysis of net interest income on a fully taxable equivalent basis for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, respectively, as well as changes in fully taxable equivalent net interest margin for the years 20192022 versus 20182021 and 20182021 versus 2017.2020. 

Table 1: Analysis of Net Interest Margin
(FTE = Fully Taxable Equivalent using an effective tax rate of 26.135% for years 2019 and 2018 and 39.225% for 2017)) 
 Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands)202220212020
Interest income$861,735 $671,061 $759,718 
FTE adjustment24,671 19,231 11,001 
Interest income - FTE886,406 690,292 770,719 
Interest expense144,419 79,529 119,984 
Net interest income - FTE$741,987 $610,763 $650,735 
Yield on earning assets - FTE3.79 %3.27 %4.00 %
Cost of interest bearing liabilities0.84 %0.52 %0.84 %
Net interest spread - FTE2.95 %2.75 %3.16 %
Net interest margin - FTE3.17 %2.89 %3.38 %
  Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 2019 2018 2017
Interest income $786,645
 $680,687
 $395,004
FTE adjustment 7,322
 5,297
 7,723
Interest income - FTE 793,967
 685,984
 402,727
Interest expense 181,370
 128,135
 40,074
Net interest income - FTE $612,597
 $557,849
 $362,653
       
Yield on earning assets - FTE 4.97% 4.89% 4.52%
Cost of interest bearing liabilities 1.49% 1.19% 0.59%
Net interest spread - FTE 3.48% 3.70% 3.93%
Net interest margin - FTE 3.83% 3.97% 4.07%

Table 2: Changes in Fully Taxable Equivalent Net Interest Margin 
(In thousands)2022 vs. 20212021 vs. 2020
Increase (decrease) due to change in earning assets$147,423 $(40,169)
Increase (decrease) due to change in earning asset yields48,691 (40,258)
Decrease due to change in interest bearing liabilities(3,274)(2,191)
Increase (decrease) due to change in interest rates paid on interest bearing liabilities(61,616)42,646 
Increase (decrease) in net interest income$131,224 $(39,972)
(In thousands) 2019 vs. 2018 2018 vs. 2017
Increase due to change in earning assets $97,849
 $255,326
Increase due to change in earning asset yields 10,134
 27,931
Decrease due to change in interest bearing liabilities (17,139) (45,351)
Decrease due to change in interest rates paid on interest bearing liabilities (36,096) (42,710)
Increase in net interest income $54,748
 $195,196


Table 3 shows, for each major category of earning assets and interest bearing liabilities, the average (computed on a daily basis) amount outstanding, the interest earned or expensed on such amount and the average rate earned or expensed for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2019.2022. The table also shows the average rate earned on all earning assets, the average rate expensed on all interest bearing liabilities, the net interest spread and the net interest margin for the same periods. The analysis is presented on a fully taxable equivalent basis. Nonaccrual loans were included in average loans for the purpose of calculating the rate earned on total loans. 


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Table 3: Average Balance Sheets and Net Interest Income Analysis
(FTE = Fully Taxable Equivalent using an effective tax rate of 26.135% for years 2019 and 2018 and 39.225% for 2017))
 Years Ended December 31,
 202220212020
 AverageIncome/Yield/AverageIncome/Yield/AverageIncome/Yield/
(In thousands)BalanceExpenseRate (%)BalanceExpenseRate (%)BalanceExpenseRate (%)
ASSETS         
Earning assets:         
Interest bearing balances due from banks and federal funds sold$793,836 $5,500 0.69 $2,376,421 $2,795 0.12 $1,970,852 $4,383 0.22 
Investment securities - taxable5,462,427 94,437 1.73 4,512,564 58,976 1.31 1,813,640 35,039 1.93 
Investment securities - non-taxable2,703,662 86,596 3.20 2,343,117 71,207 3.04 1,113,851 39,666 3.56 
Mortgage loans held for sale16,609 720 4.33 55,204 1,565 2.83 113,854 3,031 2.66 
Other loans held for sale8,322 3,120 37.49 — — — — — — 
Loans - including fees14,419,763 696,033 4.83 11,810,480 555,749 4.71 14,260,689 688,600 4.83 
Total interest earning assets23,404,619 886,406 3.79 21,097,786 690,292 3.27 19,272,886 770,719 4.00 
Non-earning assets3,014,219 2,394,522 2,317,859 
Total assets$26,418,838 $23,492,308 $21,590,745 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY     
Liabilities:         
Interest bearing liabilities:         
Interest bearing transaction and savings deposits$12,253,164 $63,033 0.51 $10,638,665 $19,568 0.18 $9,128,936 $38,462 0.42 
Time deposits3,094,747 36,016 1.16 2,804,851 21,604 0.77 3,006,768 41,398 1.38 
Total interest bearing deposits15,347,911 99,049 0.65 13,443,516 41,172 0.31 12,135,704 79,860 0.66 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase200,744 941 0.47 247,448 579 0.23 362,629 1,715 0.47 
Other borrowings1,155,310 24,934 2.16 1,340,185 19,495 1.45 1,353,738 19,652 1.45 
Subordinated debt and debentures394,870 19,495 4.94 383,182 18,283 4.77 385,294 18,757 4.87 
Total interest bearing liabilities17,098,835 144,419 0.84 15,414,331 79,529 0.52 14,237,365 119,984 0.84 
Noninterest bearing liabilities:
Noninterest bearing deposits5,827,160 4,836,839 4,225,618 
Other liabilities233,179 169,140 205,956 
Total liabilities23,159,174 20,420,310 18,668,939 
Stockholders’ equity3,259,664 3,071,998 2,921,806 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$26,418,838 $23,492,308 $21,590,745 
Net interest spread2.95 2.75 3.16 
Net interest margin$741,987 3.17 $610,763 2.89 $650,735 3.38 



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  Years Ended December 31,
  2019 2018 2017
  Average Income/ Yield/ Average Income/ Yield/ Average Income/ Yield/
(In thousands) Balance Expense Rate (%) Balance Expense Rate (%) Balance Expense Rate (%)
ASSETS  
  
    
  
    
  
  
Earning assets:  
  
    
  
    
  
  
Interest bearing balances due from banks and federal funds sold $451,946
 $7,486
 1.66 $409,092
 $5,996
 1.47 $225,466
 $1,933
 0.86
Investment securities - taxable 1,871,770
 47,140
 2.52 1,725,313
 43,083
 2.50 1,307,176
 28,517
 2.18
Investment securities - non-taxable 681,231
 26,675
 3.92 516,769
 19,231
 3.72 444,378
 19,045
 4.29
Mortgage loans held for sale 35,815
 1,326
 3.70 29,550
 1,336
 4.52 13,064
 605
 4.63
Assets held in trading accounts 
 
  
 
  41
 
 
Loans 12,937,147
 711,340
 5.50 11,355,890
 616,338
 5.43 6,918,293
 352,627
 5.10
Total interest earning assets 15,977,909
 793,967
 4.97 14,036,614
 685,984
 4.89 8,908,418
 402,727
 4.52
Non-earning assets 1,893,839
     1,734,748
     1,166,533
    
Total assets $17,871,748
     $15,771,362
     $10,074,951
    
                   
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY  
    
  
  
Liabilities:  
  
    
  
    
  
  
Interest bearing liabilities:  
  
    
  
    
  
  
Interest bearing transaction and savings deposits $7,417,104
 $80,314
 1.08 $6,691,030
 $56,903
 0.85 $4,594,733
 $18,112
 0.39
Time deposits 3,094,094
 58,697
 1.90 2,344,303
 30,307
 1.29 1,430,701
 9,644
 0.67
Total interest bearing deposits 10,511,198
 139,011
 1.32 9,035,333
 87,210
 0.97 6,025,434
 27,756
 0.46
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase 128,547
 1,010
 0.79 110,986
 423
 0.38 117,147
 347
 0.30
Other borrowings 1,199,274
 23,008
 1.92 1,309,430
 23,654
 1.81 567,959
 8,621
 1.52
Subordinated debt and debentures 359,804
 18,341
 5.10 341,254
 16,848
 4.94 79,880
 3,350
 4.19
Total interest bearing liabilities 12,198,823
 181,370
 1.49 10,797,003
 128,135
 1.19 6,790,420
 40,074
 0.59
                   
Non-interest bearing liabilities:                  
Non-interest bearing deposits 3,021,917
     2,697,235
     1,788,385
    
Other liabilities 251,631
     120,027
     105,331
    
Total liabilities 15,472,371
     13,614,265
     8,684,136
    
Stockholders’ equity 2,399,377
     2,157,097
     1,390,815
    
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $17,871,748
     $15,771,362
     $10,074,951
    
Net interest spread     3.48     3.70     3.93
Net interest margin   $612,597
 3.83   $557,849
 3.97   $362,653
 4.07



Table 4 shows changes in interest income and interest expense resulting from changes in volume and changes in interest rates for the years 20192022 versus 20182021 and 20182021 versus 2017.2020. The changes in interest rate and volume have been allocated to changes in average volume and changes in average rates in proportion to the relationship of absolute dollar amounts of the changes in rates and volume.

Table 4: Volume/Rate Analysis
 Years Ended December 31,
 2022 vs. 20212021 vs. 2020
 Yield/  Yield/ 
(In thousands, on a fully taxable equivalent basis)VolumeRateTotalVolumeRateTotal
Increase (decrease) in:      
Interest income:      
Interest bearing balances due from banks and federal funds sold$(2,952)$5,657 $2,705 $773 $(2,361)$(1,588)
Investment securities - taxable13,996 21,465 35,461 38,285 (14,348)23,937 
Investment securities - non-taxable11,395 3,994 15,389 38,110 (6,569)31,541 
Mortgage loans held for sale(1,424)579 (845)(1,651)185 (1,466)
Other loans held for sale791 2,329 3,120 — — — 
Loans - including fees125,617 14,667 140,284 (115,686)(17,165)(132,851)
Total147,423 48,691 196,114 (40,169)(40,258)(80,427)
Interest expense:
Interest bearing transaction and savings accounts3,386 40,079 43,465 5,548 (24,442)(18,894)
Time deposits2,425 11,987 14,412 (2,618)(17,176)(19,794)
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase(126)488 362 (439)(697)(1,136)
Other borrowings(2,978)8,417 5,439 (197)40 (157)
Subordinated notes and debentures567 645 1,212 (103)(371)(474)
Total3,274 61,616 64,890 2,191 (42,646)(40,455)
Increase (decrease) in net interest income$144,149 $(12,925)$131,224 $(42,360)$2,388 $(39,972)
  Years Ended December 31,
  2019 vs. 2018 2018 vs. 2017
    Yield/     Yield/  
(In thousands, on a fully taxable equivalent basis) Volume Rate Total Volume Rate Total
Increase (decrease) in:  
  
  
  
  
  
Interest income:  
  
  
  
  
  
Interest bearing balances due from banks and federal funds sold $665
 $825
 $1,490
 $2,171
 $1,892
 $4,063
Investment securities - taxable 3,685
 372
 4,057
 10,030
 4,536
 14,566
Investment securities - non-taxable 6,395
 1,049
 7,444
 2,877
 (2,691) 186
Mortgage loans held for sale 256
 (266) (10) 745
 (14) 731
Loans 86,848
 8,154
 95,002
 239,503
 24,208
 263,711
Total 97,849
 10,134
 107,983
 255,326
 27,931
 283,257
             
Interest expense:            
Interest bearing transaction and savings accounts 6,655
 16,756
 23,411
 10,967
 27,824
 38,791
Time deposits 11,534
 16,856
 28,390
 8,477
 12,186
 20,663
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase 76
 511
 587
 (19) 95
 76
Other borrowings (2,061) 1,415
 (646) 13,122
 1,911
 15,033
Subordinated notes and debentures 935
 558
 1,493
 12,804
 694
 13,498
Total 17,139
 36,096
 53,235
 45,351
 42,710
 88,061
Increase (decrease) in net interest income $80,710
 $(25,962) $54,748
 $209,975
 $(14,779) $195,196


Provision for LoanCredit Losses

The provision for loancredit losses represents management’s determination of the amount necessary to be charged against the current period’s earnings in order to maintain the allowance for loancredit losses at a level considered appropriate in relation to the estimated lifetime risk inherent in the loan portfolio. The level of provision to the allowance is based on management’s judgment, with consideration given to the composition, maturity and other qualitative characteristics of the portfolio, assessment of current economic conditions, reasonable and supportable forecasts, past due and non-performing loans and historical net loancredit loss experience. It is management’s practice to review the allowance on a monthly basis and, after considering the factors previously noted, to determine the level of provision made to the allowance.

Management updates credit loss forecasts using multiple Moody’s economic scenarios, the most recent of which were published in December 2022. The baseline economic forecast was weighted 62%, while the downside scenario of S-2 was weighted 30% and the upside scenario of S-1 was weighted 8%. The weighting of the forecasts is characterized by, among others, continual increase of CRE prices, increasing market rates, and declining national unemployment rates. The baseline economic forecast as of December 2021 was weighted 65%, while the downside scenario of S-2 was weighted 17% and the upside scenario of S-1 was weighted 18%. The weightings reflect management’s sentiment around the published forecasted scenarios by Moody’s at that specific time.



41


During 2022, our provision for credit loss expense was $14.1 million, as compared to a recapture of $32.7 million during 2021 and an expense of $75.0 million during 2020. The provision for loan lossescredit loss expense during 2022 was impacted by several factors throughout the year, including a $33.8 million Day 2 provision expense required for 2019, 2018loans and 2017unfunded commitments related to the Spirit acquisition, and an expense of $16.0 million related to the overall increase in unfunded commitments during the year, primarily made up of commercial construction loans, which receive a higher reserve allocation than other loans. These expenses were partially offset by a release of $16.0 million, which was $43.2 million, $38.1 million and $26.4 million, respectively. The provision increase was necessarydriven by a reduction to maintain an appropriate allowance for loan lossescertain industry specific qualitative factors for the company’s growing legacy portfolio. Significant loan growth inrestaurant, hospitality, student housing and office space industries due to the improvement from pandemic related stresses. Further recapture during 2022 was driven by the planned exit of several large oil and gas relationships during the year, along with our markets, both from new loansimproved asset credit quality metrics and from loans acquired migrating to legacy, required an allowance to be established for those loans through an increased provision.improved Moody’s economic modeling scenarios.

During 2019, a special provision was made related to White Star, in which we were a participant in a shared national credit. White Star became the subject of bankruptcy proceedings during 2019, and in September 2019, the bankruptcy court authorized the sale of White Star assets through a Section 363 proceeding under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Our portion of the shared national credit was $19.1 million. Based upon the anticipated net proceeds from the pending bankruptcy sale, our loss recorded in 2019 was $14.7 million. As a result, we recorded additional provision expense of $15 million to increase the allowance to an appropriate level. Additionally, a provision on loans acquired of $2.5 million was made during 2019 as a result of identifying certain loans specific to an acquired portfolio in our Dallas market which were poorly structured or were poorly managed post-funding.



The provision on loans acquired for 2018 included $3.3 million due to decreases in the expected cash flows on certain purchased credit impaired loans as identified by our required ongoing evaluationrecapture of credit marks.
Our provision expense for the year ending December 31, 2017 included building reserves for three commercial credits from the Wichita market which had specific impairments identified. Charge-offs of $7.6 million were recordedlosses during 2017 related to these loans. $1.92021 was driven by improved credit quality metrics, improved macroeconomic factors, and a maturing and amortizing loan portfolio. This recapture was partially offset by $22.7 million in provision for credit loss expense for estimated lifetime credit losses for non-purchase credit deteriorated loans acquired through the acquisitions of Landmark and Triumph during the fourth quarter. The increase during 2020 was recordedprimarily driven by the adoption of CECL and the related change in methodology which is based on qualitative adjustments, intended to account for potential problem credits that have not materialized into any identifiable metrics or delinquencies. During 2020, certain industries were more adversely impacted by the current and expected economic scenarios, such as the restaurant, retail, and hotel industries. Also, 2020 included an additional provision related to problem energy credits, ultimately charged-off during 2017 asthe second quarter of 2020 for a resulttotal of a decrease$32.6 million, that experienced further deterioration beginning in expected cash flows fromfirst quarter of 2020 and were negatively impacted by the sharp decline in commodity pricing. The remainder of the increase was related to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic that is incorporated in our required ongoing evaluation ofallowance for credit marks on certain purchased credit impaired loans.losses.

See Allowance for Loan Losses section for additional information.

Non-InterestNoninterest Income

Non-interestNoninterest income is principally derived from recurring fee income, which includes service charges, trustwealth management fees and debit and credit card fees. Non-interestNoninterest income also includes income on the sale of mortgage and SBA loans, investment banking income, income from the increase in cash surrender values of bank owned life insurance and gains (losses) from sales of securities.

Total non-interestnoninterest income was $201.5$170.1 million in 2019,2022, compared to $143.9$191.8 million in 20182021 and $138.8$239.8 million in 2017. Non-interest2020. Noninterest income for 2019 increased $57.62022 decreased $21.7 million, or 40.0%11.3%, from 2018.2021. Included in 2022 results were $4.3 million of certain items, primarily made up of a $4.1 million gain on an insurance settlement related to a weather event that caused severe damage to one of our branch locations. Included in 2021 results were $5.7 million of certain items, primarily related to a $5.3 million gain on sale related to the Illinois Branch Sale in 2021. Adjusting for these certain items, adjusted noninterest income for the year ended December 31, 2022 decreased $20.4 million, or 10.9%, from the prior year. See the Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures section for additional discussion and reconciliations of non-GAAP measures.
 
The majority of the increasedecrease during 20192022 was related to the gaindecline in the gains on sale of the Visa Inc. class B common stock of $42.9 million. Additionally, during 2019 we have been focused on rebalancing our investment portfoliosecurities and consequently have recognized additional gains on the sale of securities.mortgage lending income compared to 2021. During 2019,2021, we sold approximately $558.9$342.6 million of investment securities resulting in a net gain of $13.3 million. Increases in mortgage$15.5 million, while we realized a net loss of $278,000 related to the call of securities during 2022.

Mortgage lending income were due to a strong real estate housing market driven by the interest rate decreases beginning in mid-2019. Conversely, debit and credit card fees decreased $3.0$11.3 million compared to 2018 primarilyduring 2022 due to the effects ofrising interest rate environment and softening market conditions throughout the interchangeyear, which slowed the demand for mortgage loans compared to the demand associated with the lower interest rate cap as established by the Durbin Amendment to which we became subject as of July 1, 2018. For further discussion regarding the Durbin Amendment, see the “Impacts of Growth” sectionenvironment in Part I, Item 1, Business.2021. We originated $751.0 million and $1.13 billion in mortgage loans during 2022 and 2021, respectively.

During 2018, we had increasesThese decreases in trustnoninterest income and service charges thatduring 2022 were partially offset by reductionsan increase of $3.3 million in service charges on deposit accounts and an increase of $3.0 million in debit cardand credit fees and mortgage and SBA lending income. The additional accounts acquired from the 2017 acquisitions contributed to the increases in trust income and total service charges during 2018. The increase in trust income was also in part due to the continued positive growth in our existing personal trust and investment management client base. These increases were partially offset by reductions in SBA lending premium income as a result of remaining selective in our decisions regarding loan sales as premium rates were lower in late 2018 comparedadditional transactions due to the beginning ofincremental customer base from the year. The decrease in mortgage lending income wasLandmark, Triumph and Spirit acquisitions and additional transactions due to fewer mortgage lending transactions as a resultthe changes in customer spending habits. Also included in 2022 results is the $4.1 million gain on an insurance settlement previously discussed and an increase of continually rising interest rates throughout 2018. During the last six months of 2018, debit card fees decreased $5.9$2.2 million as a result of the Durbin Amendment.in bank owned life insurance income due to our increased investment in bank owned life insurance.



42


Table 5 shows non-interestnoninterest income for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, respectively, as well as changes in 20192022 from 20182021 and in 20182021 from 2017.2020.
 


Table 5: Non-InterestNoninterest Income 
  Years Ended December 31, 2019
Change from
 2018
Change from
(Dollars in thousands) 2019 2018 2017 2018 2017
Trust income $25,040
 $23,128
 $18,570
 $1,912
 8.3 % $4,558
 24.5 %
Service charges on deposit accounts 44,782
 42,508
 36,079
 2,274
 5.4
 6,429
 17.8
Other service charges and fees 5,824
 7,469
 9,919
 (1,645) (22.0) (2,450) (24.7)
Mortgage lending income 15,017
 9,230
 9,708
 5,787
 62.7
 (478) (4.9)
SBA lending income 2,669
 1,813
 3,608
 856
 47.2
 (1,795) (49.8)
Investment banking income 2,313
 3,141
 2,793
 (828) (26.4) 348
 12.5
Debit and credit card fees 29,289
 32,268
 34,258
 (2,979) (9.2) (1,990) (5.8)
Bank owned life insurance income 4,768
 4,415
 3,503
 353
 8.0
 912
 26.0
Gain on sale of securities, net 13,314
 61
 1,059
 13,253
 * (998) (94.2)
Gain on sale of Visa, Inc. class B common stock 42,860
 
 
 42,860
 * 
 
Gain on sale of premises held for sale, net 
 
 264
 
 
 (264) (100.0)
Gain on sale of insurance lines of business, net 
 
 3,708
 
 
 (3,708) *
Other income 15,633
 19,863
 15,296
 (4,230) (21.3) 4,567
 29.9
Total non-interest income $201,509
 $143,896
 $138,765
 $57,613
 40.0 % $5,131
 3.7 %
 Years Ended December 31,2022
Change from
2021
Change from
(Dollars in thousands)20222021202020212020
Service charges on deposit accounts$46,527 $43,231 $43,082 $3,296 7.6 %$149 0.4 %
Debit and credit card fees31,203 28,245 24,711 2,958 10.5 3,534 14.3 
Wealth management fees31,895 31,172 30,386 723 2.3 786 2.6 
Mortgage lending income10,522 21,798 34,469 (11,276)(51.7)(12,671)(36.8)
Bank owned life insurance income11,146 8,902 5,815 2,244 25.2 3,087 53.1 
Other service charges and fees7,616 7,696 6,624 (80)(1.0)1,072 16.2 
Gain (loss) on sale of securities, net(278)15,498 54,806 (15,776)*(39,308)(71.7)
Gain on sale of branches— 5,316 8,368 (5,316)*(3,052)(36.5)
Gain on insurance settlement4,074 — — 4,074 *— — 
Other income27,361 29,957 31,508 (2,596)(8.7)(1,551)(4.9)
Total noninterest income$170,066 $191,815 $239,769 $(21,749)(11.3)%$(47,954)(20.0)%
_________________________
*Not meaningful
 
Recurring fee income (service(total service charges, trustwealth management fees, debit and credit card fees and other fees) for 20192022 was $104.9$117.2 million, a decreasean increase of $438,000,$6.9 million, or 0.4%6.3%, when compared with the 2018 amounts, largely due to the reduction2021 amounts. The increases in the periods presented are primarily the result of changes in total service charges and debit and credit card fees as previously discussed. The net decrease was partially offset by increases in trust income and total service charges and fees due to additional accounts acquired from the Landrum and Reliance mergers.

Non-InterestNoninterest Expense
 
Non-interestNoninterest expense consists of salaries and employee benefits, occupancy, equipment, foreclosure losses and other expenses necessary for our operations. Management remains committed to controlling the level of non-interestnoninterest expense through the continued use of expense control measures. We utilize an extensive profit planning and reporting system involving all subsidiaries. Based on a needs assessment of the business plan for the upcoming year, monthly and annual profit plans are developed, including manpower and capital expenditure budgets. These profit plans are subject to extensive initial reviews and monitored by management monthly. Variances from the plan are reviewed monthly and, when required, management takes corrective action intended to ensure financial goals are met. We also regularly monitor staffing levels at each subsidiary to ensure productivity and overhead are in line with existing workload requirements.
 
Non-interestNoninterest expense for 20192022 was $461.1$566.7 million, an increase of $68.9$83.2 million, or 17.6%17.2%, from 2018.2021. Included in 20192022 were the following non-core items: $36.4$27.7 million of certain items, primarily made up of $22.5 million of merger-related costs due to the LandrumLandmark, Triumph and RelianceSpirit acquisitions and $3.5 million of early retirement program expenses and $3.1 million offrom branch-right sizing costs. NormalizingIncluded in 2021 were $15.4 million of certain items, made up of $15.9 million of merger-related costs due to the Landmark and Triumph acquisitions and a $537,000 benefit from branch-right sizing costs. Adjusting for these non-core costs, non-interestcertain items, adjusted noninterest expense for the year ended December 31, 20192022 increased $32.0$70.8 million, or 8.3%15.1%, from the prior year. See the Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures section for detailsadditional discussion and reconciliations of non-GAAP measures.

Salaries and employee benefits expense and occupancy expense increased by $40.6 million and $5.5 million, respectively, as compared to 2021, primarily due to impacts from the non-core items.Landmark, Triumph and Spirit acquisitions. In addition, we have added associates in our lending, wealth and mortgage programs, as well as in other key functions.

As previously mentioned, our NGB technology initiative is well underwayDeposit insurance increased by $4.6 million as compared to 2021 due to assessment rate increases from FDIC insurance and the incremental software and technology expenditures of $9.6Arkansas State Bank Department.

Other expense increased by $10.8 million were primarily relatedas compared to this initiative. Additionally, marketing costs increased year over year2021, primarily due to the $4impacts from the Landmark, Triumph and Spirit acquisitions, in addition to $1.2 million donationof accelerated amortization of certain tax credits, the offset of which is recorded in provision for income taxes.


43


Marketing expense increased by $6.6 million as compared to 2021 due to increased advertising and public relations expenses, including a multi-university corporate sponsorship program designed to support female student athletes and serve as a program for developing women leaders in the corporate world. Additionally, a nonrecurrent $1.6 million contribution was made during the year to the Simmons First Foundation during third quarter 2019 and also incorporatingConservation Fund reflecting a comprehensive community banking marketing philosophy over our expanded footprint during the year. Salaries and employee benefits also increased primarily dueportion of paper statement fees collected as part of a promotion to the 2019 acquisitions of Landrum and Reliance. Incremental increasesencourage customers to enroll in several categories are also related to these acquisitions.electronic statements.



The reduction in deposit insurance expense was due to a credit assessment received from the FDIC during the third and fourth quarters of 2019 in the amount of $4.7 million. The FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund Reserve Ratio reached 1.35% as of September 30, 2018, and we were notified by the FDIC that Simmons Bank was entitled to $4.0 million in assessment credits. In addition, Landmark Bank had $745,000 in assessment credits at acquisition. We were able to utilize both the Simmons Bank and Landmark Bank credits during the last half of 2019, and, as of December 31, 2019, there are no assessment credits remaining.

Non-interest expense categories in 2018 were affected by the late 2017 acquired franchises, with the largest increases being in salaries and employee benefits, occupancy expense, foreclosure expense and deposit insurance. Our investment in NGB began during 2018 with increases in software amortization and IT costs related to planned upgrades to many of our banking systems.
Amortization of intangibles recorded for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, and 2017,2021 was $11.8 million, $11.0$15.9 million and $7.7$13.5 million, respectively. The increase during 2019 was due to the other intangibles recorded as part of the 2019 acquisitions. See Note 8, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, in the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding our intangibles.

Table 6 below shows non-interestnoninterest expense for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, respectively, as well as changes in 20192022 from 20182021 and in 20182021 from 2017.2020.
 
Table 6: Non-InterestNoninterest Expense 
 Years Ended December 31, 2019
Change from
 2018
Change from
Years Ended December 31,2022
Change from
2021
Change from
(Dollars in thousands) 2019 2018 2017 2018 2017(Dollars in thousands)20222021202020212020
Salaries and employee benefits $224,331
 $216,743
 $154,314
 $7,588
 3.5 % $62,429
 40.5 %Salaries and employee benefits$286,982 $246,335 $239,573 $40,647 16.5 %$6,762 2.8 %
Early retirement program 3,464
 
 
 3,464
 * 
 
Early retirement program— — 2,901 — — (2,901)(100.0)
Occupancy expense, net 32,008
 29,610
 21,159
 2,398
 8.1
 8,451
 39.9
Occupancy expense, net44,321 38,797 37,556 5,524 14.2 1,241 3.3 
Furniture and equipment expense 18,220
 16,323
 19,366
 1,897
 11.6
 (3,043) (15.7)Furniture and equipment expense20,665 19,890 24,038 775 3.9 (4,148)(17.3)
Other real estate and foreclosure expense 3,442
 4,480
 3,042
 (1,038) (23.2) 1,438
 47.3
Other real estate and foreclosure expense1,003 2,121 1,752 (1,118)(52.7)369 21.1 
Deposit insurance 4,416
 8,721
 3,696
 (4,305) (49.4) 5,025
 136.0
Deposit insurance11,608 6,973 9,184 4,635 66.5 (2,211)(24.1)
Merger related costs 36,379
 4,777
 21,923
 31,602
 * (17,146) (78.2)Merger related costs22,476 15,911 4,531 6,565 41.3 11,380 251.2 
Other operating expenses:              Other operating expenses:
Professional services 16,897
 16,685
 19,500
 212
 1.3
 (2,815) (14.4)Professional services19,138 18,921 18,688 217 1.2 233 1.3 
Postage 6,363
 5,785
 4,686
 578
 10.0
 1,099
 23.5
Postage8,955 8,276 7,538 679 8.2 738 9.8 
Telephone 7,685
 5,947
 4,262
 1,738
 29.2
 1,685
 39.5
Telephone6,394 6,234 8,833 160 2.6 (2,599)(29.4)
Credit card expenses 16,163
 14,338
 12,188
 1,825
 12.7
 2,150
 17.6
Credit card expenses12,243 11,112 10,199 1,131 10.2 913 9.0 
Marketing 16,499
 8,410
 11,141
 8,089
 96.2
 (2,731) (24.5)Marketing28,870 22,234 19,396 6,636 29.9 2,838 14.6 
Software and technology 25,146
 15,558
 2,204
 9,588
 61.6
 13,354
 *Software and technology40,906 40,608 39,724 298 0.7 884 2.2 
Operating supplies 2,322
 2,346
 1,980
 (24) (1.0) 366
 18.5
Operating supplies2,556 2,766 3,322 (210)(7.6)(556)(16.7)
Amortization of intangibles 11,805
 11,009
 7,668
 796
 7.2
 3,341
 43.6
Amortization of intangibles15,915 13,494 13,495 2,421 17.9 (1)— 
Branch right sizing expense 3,129
 1,341
 434
 1,788
 133.3
 907
 *Branch right sizing expense3,475 (537)14,097 4,012 *(14,634)(103.8)
Other expense 32,843
 30,156
 24,816
 2,687
 8.9
 5,340
 21.5
Other expense41,241 30,454 29,909 10,787 35.4 545 1.8 
Total non-interest expense $461,112
 $392,229
 $312,379
 $68,883
 17.6 % $79,850
 25.6 %
Total noninterest expenseTotal noninterest expense$566,748 $483,589 $484,736 $83,159 17.2 %$(1,147)(0.2)%
_________________________
*Not meaningful




Income Taxes
 
The provision for income taxes for 20192022 was $64.3$50.1 million, compared to $50.4$61.3 million in 20182021 and $62.0$64.9 million in 2017.2020. The effective income tax rates for the years ended 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 20172020 were 21.2%16.4%, 18.9%18.4% and 40.0%20.3%, respectively.

On December 22, 2017, The decrease in the President signed tax reform legislation (the “2017 Act”) which included a broad rangeprovision for income taxes during 2022 was the result of tax reform provisions affecting businesses, including corporate tax rates, business deductions, and international tax provisions. The 2017 Act reduced the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017. The 2017 Act resulted in a one-time non-cash adjustment to income of $11.5 million during 2017.

The effective income tax rate was lower during 2018 than 2017 largely due to the 2017 Act, as well as the discrete tax benefits related to tax accounting for a cost segregation study, excess tax benefits related to restricted stock and a state tax deferred tax asset adjustment. See Note 10, Income Taxes, for further discussion related to these discrete tax benefits recognizedcredits that were recorded during the year.fourth quarter.


44


Loan Portfolio

Our legacy loan portfolio excluding loans acquired, averaged $9.526$14.42 billion during 20192022 and $6.915$11.81 billion during 2018.2021. As of December 31, 2019,2022, total loans excluding loans acquired, were $9.630$16.14 billion, compared to $8.430$12.01 billion on December 31, 2018,2021, an increase of $1.20$4.13 billion, or 14.2%34.4%. This marksThe increase in the eighth consecutive year that we have seen annualoverall loan balance during 2022 is primarily due to the acquisition of Spirit which provided $2.29 billion in total loans after purchase accounting discounts, coupled with widespread loan growth throughout our geographic markets during the year. The increase in total loans more than offset declines in PPP loans, mortgage warehouse lending and planned declines in our legacy loanenergy portfolio. The most significant components of the loan portfolio were loans to businesses (commercial loans, commercial real estate loans and agricultural loans) and individuals (consumer loans, credit card loans and single-family residential real estate loans). The growth in the legacy portfolio is primarily attributable to the larger market areas in which we now operate as a result of our 2019 acquisitions.
When we make a credit decision on an acquired loan as a result of the loan maturing or renewing, the outstanding balance of that loan migrates from loans acquired to legacy loans. Our legacy loan growth from December 31, 2018 to December 31, 2019 included $461.4 million in balances that migrated from acquired loans during the period. These migrated loan balances are included in the legacy loan balances as of December 31, 2019. Excluding the migrated balances from the growth calculation, our legacy loans have grown at a 9.9% rate during 2019.
 
We seek to manage our credit risk by diversifying our loan portfolio, determining that borrowers have adequate sources of cash flow for loan repayment without liquidation of collateral, obtaining and monitoring collateral, providing an appropriate allowance for loancredit losses and regularly reviewing loans through the internal loan review process. The loan portfolio is diversified by borrower, purpose, industry and geographic region. We seek to use diversification within the loan portfolio to reduce credit risk, thereby minimizing the adverse impact on the portfolio, if weaknesses develop in either the economy or a particular segment of borrowers. Collateral requirements are based on credit assessments of borrowers and may be used to recover the debt in case of default. We use the allowance for loancredit losses as a method to value the loan portfolio at its estimated collectible amount. Loans are regularly reviewed to facilitate the identification and monitoring of deteriorating credits.
 
Consumer loans consist of credit card loans and other consumer loans. Consumer loans were $396.7$349.8 million at December 31, 2019,2022, or 4.1%2.2% of total loans, compared to $405.5$355.4 million, or 4.8%3.0% of total loans at December 31, 2018.2021. The decrease in consumer loans was primarily due to a decreaseloan payoffs and pay downs during the year. The decline in our liquidating indirect lending portfolio that we exited from the line of businessoverall consumer loan balance was partially offset by the $9.9 million increase in early 2017 and the portfolio continues to pay down.
Theour credit card portfolio balance at December 31, 2019, increased by $629,0002022 when compared to the same period in 2018.2021. Our credit card portfolio has remained a stable source of lending for several years.
 
Real estate loans consist of construction and development (“C&D”) loans, single family residential loans and other commercialCRE loans. Real estate loans were $6.884$12.58 billion at December 31, 2019,2022, or 71.5%77.9% of total loans, compared to $5.966$9.17 billion, or 70.8%76.3% of total loans at December 31, 2018,2021, an increase of $918.0 million,$3.41 billion, or 15.4%37.2%. Our C&D loans increased by $460.2 million,$1.24 billion, or 35.4%93.5%, single family residential loans increased by $4.2$444.1 million, or 0.3%21.1%, and commercial real estate (“CRE”)CRE loans increased by $453.6 million,$1.73 billion, or 14.1%30.1%.

During The increases were largely due to the third quarterSpirit acquisition noted above, coupled with strong organic loan growth, particularly in the latter half of 2019,2022. In the near term, we sold $114 million of primarily CRE loans resulting in a net loss of $5.1 million. This sale was relatedexpect to an effortcontinue to manage our C&D and CRE concentration. Ourportfolio concentration of CRE loans was 293% at December 31, 2019,by developing deeper relationships with our customers.


compared to 295% at December 31, 2018, and 333% at June 30, 2019. The increase during the first of half of the year was related to the high concentration of commercial real estate loans acquired in the Reliance acquisition.

Commercial loans consist of non-real estate loans related to business and agricultural loans. Total commercial loans were $2.073$2.84 billion at December 31, 2019,2022, or 21.5%17.6% of total loans, compared to the $1.939$2.16 billion, or 23.0%18.0% of total loans at December 31, 2018,2021, an increase of $133.8$677.2 million, or 6.9%. As previously discussed, we31.3%, which was primarily due to the combined acquired and organic loan growth. The balance in our PPP loan portfolio was $8.9 million as of December 31, 2022, as compared to $116.7 million at December 31, 2021, with the decline due to the expected reimbursements from the SBA related to PPP loan forgiveness of both PPP Round 1 and Round 2 loans.

Other loans mainly consists of mortgage warehouse lending and municipal loans. Mortgage volume experienced a market driven decline throughout 2022 when compared to 2021, but was more than offset by the Spirit acquisition combined with organic growth, leading to an increase of $44.0 million in other loans.

Loan growth was widespread throughout our geographic markets and was generally broad-based by loan type and more than offset continued market-driven weakness in mortgage warehouse lending. We are workingseeing loan growth in our metro, community and corporate banking groups and continue to exitadd new producers in these areas. Our loan pipeline consisting of all purchased syndicated energy creditsloan opportunities was $1.12 billion at December 31, 2022, compared to $2.31 billion at December 31, 2021. The pipeline includes $270.5 million in loans approved and expectready to exitclose at least $120 million of these credits bythe end of the second quarteryear.




45


The balances of 2020.

loans outstanding at the indicated dates are reflected in Table 7, reflects the legacy loan portfolio, excluding loans acquired.according to type of loan.
 
Table 7: Loan Portfolio 
 Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands)20222021202020192018
Consumer:     
Credit cards$196,928 $187,052 $188,845 $204,802 $204,173 
Other consumer152,882 168,318 202,379 249,694 215,763 
Total consumer349,810 355,370 391,224 454,496 419,936 
Real Estate:
Construction and development2,566,649 1,326,371 1,596,255 2,236,861 1,736,817 
Single family residential2,546,115 2,101,975 1,880,673 2,442,064 1,994,716 
Other commercial7,468,498 5,738,904 5,746,863 6,205,599 5,073,994 
Total real estate12,581,262 9,167,250 9,223,791 10,884,524 8,805,527 
Commercial:
Commercial2,632,290 1,992,043 2,574,386 2,495,516 2,192,497 
Agricultural205,623 168,717 175,905 315,454 166,225 
Total commercial2,837,913 2,160,760 2,750,291 2,810,970 2,358,722 
Other373,139 329,123 535,591 275,714 139,081 
Total loans before allowance for credit losses$16,142,124 $12,012,503 $12,900,897 $14,425,704 $11,723,266 
  Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Consumer:  
  
  
  
  
Credit cards $204,802
 $204,173
 $185,422
 $184,591
 $177,288
Other consumer 191,946
 201,297
 280,094
 303,972
 208,380
Total consumer 396,748
 405,470
 465,516
 488,563
 385,668
Real Estate:          
Construction and development 1,760,894
 1,300,723
 614,155
 336,759
 279,740
Single family residential 1,444,620
 1,440,443
 1,094,633
 904,245
 696,180
Other commercial 3,678,908
 3,225,287
 2,530,824
 1,787,075
 1,229,072
Total real estate 6,884,422
 5,966,453
 4,239,612
 3,028,079
 2,204,992
Commercial:          
Commercial 1,909,796
 1,774,909
 825,217
 639,525
 500,116
Agricultural 163,396
 164,514
 148,302
 150,378
 148,563
Total commercial 2,073,192
 1,939,423
 973,519
 789,903
 648,679
Other 275,714
 119,042
 26,962
 20,662
 7,115
Total loans, excluding loans acquired, before allowance for loan losses $9,630,076
 $8,430,388
 $5,705,609
 $4,327,207
 $3,246,454

Loans Acquired

On October 31, 2019, we completed the acquisition of Landrum and issued 17,349,722 shares of the Company’s common stock valued at approximately $415.0 million as of October 31, 2019 and 767 shares of its series D preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, in exchange for all outstanding shares of Landrum capital stock to effect the merger. Included in the acquisition were loans with a fair value of $2.0 billion.

On April 12, 2019, we completed the acquisition of Reliance and issued 3,999,623 shares of the Company’s common stock valued at approximately $102.8 million as of April 12, 2019 and paid $62.7 million in cash to effect the merger. The Company also issued $42.0 million of series A preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, and series B preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share. In May 2019, the Company redeemed all of the preferred stock issued in connection with the Reliance acquisition, and paid all accrued and unpaid dividends up to the date of redemption. Included in the acquisition were loans with a fair value of $1.1 billion.

On October 19, 2017, we completed the acquisition of OKSB and issued 14,488,604 shares of the Company’s common stock valued at approximately $431.4 million as of October 19, 2017 plus $94.9 million in cash in exchange for all outstanding shares of OKSB common stock. Included in the acquisition were loans with a fair value of $2.0 billion.
On October 19, 2017, we completed the acquisition of First Texas and issued 12,999,840 shares of the Company’s common stock valued at approximately $387.1 million as of October 19, 2017 plus $70.0 million in cash in exchange for all outstanding shares of First Texas common stock. Included in the acquisition were loans with a fair value of $2.2 billion.


On May 15, 2017, we completed the acquisition of Hardeman and issued 1,599,940 shares of the Company’s common stock valued at approximately $42.6 million as of May 15, 2017 plus $30.0 million in cash in exchange for all outstanding shares of Hardeman common stock. Included in the acquisition were loans with a fair value of $251.6 million.
On September 9, 2016, we completed the acquisition of Citizens and issued 1,671,482 shares of the Company’s common stock valued at approximately $41.3 million as of September 9, 2016 plus $35.0 million in cash in exchange for all outstanding shares of Citizens common stock. Included in the acquisition were loans with a fair value of $340.9 million.

Table 8 reflects the carrying value of all acquired loans:
Table 8:Loans Acquired 
  Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Consumer:  
  
  
  
  
Other consumer $57,748
 $15,658
 $51,467
 $49,677
 $75,606
Real Estate:          
Construction and development 475,967
 429,605
 637,032
 57,587
 77,119
Single family residential 997,444
 566,188
 793,228
 423,176
 501,002
Other commercial 2,526,247
 1,848,679
 2,387,777
 690,108
 854,068
Total real estate 3,999,658
 2,844,472
 3,818,037
 1,170,871
 1,432,189
Commercial:          
Commercial 585,720
 430,914
 995,587
 81,837
 154,533
Agricultural 152,058
 1,739
 66,576
 3,298
 10,573
Total commercial 737,778
 432,653
 1,062,163
 85,135
 165,106
Other 
 
 142,409
 
 
Total loans acquired (1)
 $4,795,184
 $3,292,783
 $5,074,076
 $1,305,683
 $1,672,901
_________________________
(1)Loans acquired are reported net of a $444,000, $95,000, and $418,000 allowance as of December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively, and a $954,000 allowance as of December 31, 2016 and 2015.

The majority of the loans originally acquired in the Landrum, Reliance, OKSB, First Texas, Hardeman, and Citizens acquisitions were evaluated and are being accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 310-20, Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs. The fair value discount is being accreted into interest income over the weighted average life of the loans using a constant yield method. These loans are not considered to be impaired loans.
We evaluated the remaining loans purchased in conjunction with the acquisitions of Landrum, Reliance, OKSB, First Texas, Hardeman, and Citizens for impairment in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality. Purchased loans are considered impaired if there is evidence of credit deterioration since origination and if it is probable that not all contractually required payments will be collected.

Some purchased impaired loans were determined to have experienced additional impairment upon disposition or foreclosure. In 2019, we recorded approximately $2.5 million in a provision for these loans, charge-offs of $3,015,000, and recoveries of $900,000 resulting in an allowance for loan losses for purchased impaired loans at December 31, 2019 of $444,000. In 2018, we recorded approximately $3.3 million in a provision for these loans and charge-offs of $3,622,000, resulting in an allowance for loan losses for purchased impaired loans at December 31, 2018 of $95,000. During 2017, we recorded $1.9 million of provision for these loans and charge-offs of $2.4 million, resulting in an allowance for loan losses for purchased impaired loans at December 31, 2017 of $418,000. We recorded $626,000 provision for these loans with a subsequent charge-off, resulting in no increase to the allowance for loan losses for purchased impaired loans at December 31, 2016. During 2015, we recorded $736,000 provision for these loans with a subsequent charge-off, resulting in no increase to the allowance for loan losses for purchased impaired loans at December 31, 2015. See Note 2, Acquisitions, and Note 6, Loans Acquired, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of loans acquired.


Table 98 reflects the remaining maturities and interest rate sensitivity of loans atDecember 31, 2019.2022.

Table 9:8: Maturity and Interest Rate Sensitivity of Loans

 1 yearOver 1 year throughOver 5 years throughOver
(In thousands)or less5 years15 years15 yearsTotal
Consumer$192,356 $156,660 $151 $643 $349,810 
Real estate3,537,918 7,429,863 1,549,870 63,611 12,581,262 
Commercial1,594,462 1,197,448 27,678 18,325 2,837,913 
Other131,990 105,167 115,110 20,872 373,139 
Total$5,456,726 $8,889,138 $1,692,809 $103,451 $16,142,124 
Predetermined rate
Consumer$98,033 $43,026 $46 $467 $141,572 
Real estate1,663,605 4,856,742 903,434 41,569 7,465,350 
Commercial622,572 729,417 21,275 18,317 1,391,581 
Other36,381 103,107 112,544 20,492 272,524 
Total$2,420,591 $5,732,292 $1,037,299 $80,845 $9,271,027 
Floating rate
Consumer$94,323 $113,634 $105 $176 $208,238 
Real estate1,874,313 2,573,121 646,436 22,042 5,115,912 
Commercial971,890 468,031 6,403 1,446,332 
Other95,609 2,060 2,566 380 100,615 
Total$3,036,135 $3,156,846 $655,510 $22,606 $6,871,097 

46
  1 year 
Over 1
year
through
 Over  
(In thousands) or less 5 years 5 years Total
Consumer $224,262
 $150,025
 $80,209
 $454,496
Real estate 3,445,642
 6,649,651
 788,787
 10,884,080
Commercial 1,806,367
 927,304
 77,299
 2,810,970
Other 261,608
 14,004
 102
 275,714
Total $5,737,879
 $7,740,984
 $946,397
 $14,425,260
         
Predetermined rate $2,916,922
 $4,247,657
 $104,985
 $7,269,564
Floating rate 2,820,957
 3,493,327
 841,412
 7,155,696
Total $5,737,879
 $7,740,984
 $946,397
 $14,425,260



Asset Quality

A loan is considered impaired when it is probable that we will not receive all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loans. Impaired loans include non-performing loans (loans past due 90 days or more and nonaccrual loans) and certain other loans identified by management that are still performing.
Non-performing loans are comprised of (a) nonaccrual loans, (b) loans that are contractually past due 90 days and (c) other loans for which terms have been restructured to provide a reduction or deferral of interest or principal, because of deterioration in the financial position of the borrower. Simmons Bank recognizes income principally on the accrual basis of accounting. When loans are classified as nonaccrual, generally, the accrued interest is charged off and no further interest is accrued. Loans, excluding credit card loans, are placed on a nonaccrual basis either: (1) when there are serious doubts regarding the collectibility of principal or interest, or (2) when payment of interest or principal is 90 days or more past due and either (i) not fully secured or (ii) not in the process of collection. If a loan is determined by management to be uncollectible, the portion of the loan determined to be uncollectible is then charged to the allowance for loancredit losses.
 
CreditWhen credit card loans are classified as impaired when payment of interest or principal is 90 days past due. When accounts reach 90 days past due and there are attachable assets, the accounts are considered for litigation. Credit card loans are generally charged off when payment of interest or principal exceeds 150 days past due. The credit card recovery group pursues account holders until it is determined, on a case-by-case basis, to be uncollectible.

Total non-performing assets excluding alldecreased $13.8 million from December 31, 2021 to December 31, 2022. Nonaccrual loans decreased by $9.8 million during 2022, in addition to a decrease in foreclosed assets held for sale of $3.1 million. The decrease in nonaccrual loans was primarily due to an overall improvement in economic conditions from pandemic related stresses.
Non-performing assets, including troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”) and acquired foreclosed assets, as a percent of total assets were 0.23% at December 31, 2022 compared to 0.33% at December 31, 2021.

Total non-performing assets decreased by $67.6 million from December 31, 2020 to December 31, 2021. Nonaccrual loans decreased by $54.7 million during 2021, in addition to a decrease in foreclosed assets held for sale of $12.4 million. The decrease in nonaccrual loans was primarily due to an overall improvement in economic conditions while the decrease in foreclosed assets held for sale and other real estate owned is primarily the result of the disposition of one commercial building in the St. Louis area and the disposition of one piece of commercial land with net book values at the time of sale of $6.5 million and $2.8 million, respectively.

Total non-performing assets increased by $31.6$28.6 million from December 31, 2019 to December 31, 2020. Nonaccrual loans increased by $29.5 million during 2020, partially offset by a decrease in foreclosed assets held for sale of $728,000. The increase in nonaccrual loans during 2020 is primarily related to one energy loan totaling $22.0 million which moved to nonaccrual during the fourth quarter of 2020. The remaining increase was related to various other CRE loans and commercial loan relationships.

Total non-performing assets increased by $33.1 million from December 31, 2018 to December 31, 2019. Nonaccrual loans increased by $36.6$37.5 million during 2019, primarily commercial loans, partially offset by a decrease in foreclosed assets held for sale of $6.4 million. The nonaccrual loan increase was primarily due to two loans that became reportable as non-performing legacy loans during the third quarter. One particular acquired loan migrated from loans acquired to legacy loans during the third quarter, with the entire balance previously being included in the nonaccrual loans acquired total. The decrease in foreclosed assets held for sale was partially offset by foreclosed assets received from the 2019 mergers. Non-performing assets, including troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”) and acquired foreclosed assets, as a percent of total assets were 0.45% at December 31, 2019 compared to 0.40% at December 31, 2018.

Total non-performing assets, excluding all loans acquired, decreased by $18.4 million from December 31, 2017 to December 31, 2018. Nonaccrual loans decreased by $11.4 million during 2018, primarily commercial loans. Foreclosed assets held for sale decreased by $6.6 million.

During 2018, we sold approximately $32 million of substandard rated loans that consisted of both legacy and acquired loans. The loans had adequate reserves, thus no provision expense was required. However, the sale increased net charge-offs by approximately $4.6 million.



Total non-performing assets, excluding all loans acquired, increased by $12.2 million from December 31, 2016, to December 31, 2017. Total non-performing loans increased by $6.8 million from December 31, 2016 to December 31, 2017, primarily due to two credit relationships totaling $11.0 million in the Wichita market. Nonaccrual loans increased by $6.5 million during 2017, primarily CRE and other consumer loans.

During 2017, $3.2 million of previously closed branch buildings and land was reclassified to OREO from premises held for sale. There was no deterioration or further write-down of these properties. Also, as part of the First South Bank conversion, 5 branches were closed during the third quarter 2017. Under ASC Topic 360, there is a one year maximum holding period to classify premises as held for sale. However, under Arkansas state banking laws former branch buildings must be recorded as OREO.

From time to time, certain borrowers are experiencingexperience declines in income and cash flow. As a result, these borrowers are seekingseek to reduce contractual cash outlays, the most prominent being debt payments. In an effort to preserve our net interest margin and earning assets, we are open to working with existing customers in order to maximize the collectibility of the debt.

When we restructure a loan to a borrower that is experiencing financial difficulty and grant a concession that we would not otherwise consider, a “troubled debt restructuring”restructuring,” or “TDR,” results and the Company classifieswe classify the loan as a TDR. The Company grantsWe grant various types of concessions, primarily interest rate reduction and/or payment modifications or extensions, with an occasional forgiveness of principal.
 
Under ASC Topic 310-10-35 – Subsequent Measurement, a TDR is considered to be impaired, and an impairment analysis must be performed. We assess the exposure for each modification, either by collateral discounting or by calculation of the present value of future cash flows, and determine if a specific allocation to the allowance for loan losses is needed.

Once an obligation has been restructured because of such credit problems, it continues to be considered a TDR until paid in full; or, if an obligation yields a market interest rate and no longer has any concession regarding payment amount or amortization, then it is not considered a TDR at the beginning of the calendar year after the year in which the improvement takes place. Our TDR balance decreased to $5.3$3.5 million at December 31, 2019,2022 compared to $9.2$6.9 million at December 31, 20182021, and $12.9compared to $7.5 million at December 31, 2017. The majority2020.
TDRs are individually evaluated for expected credit losses. We assess the exposure for each modification, either by the fair value of our TDR balance remains in the commercial portfolio withunderlying collateral or the largest balance comprisedpresent value of six relationships.expected cash flows, and determine if a specific allowance for credit losses is needed.    


47


We return TDRs to accrual status only if (1) all contractual amounts due can reasonably be expected to be repaid within a prudent period, and (2) repayment has been in accordance with the contract for a sustained period, typically at least six months.

We continue to maintain good asset quality, compared to the industry. Strongindustry, and strong asset quality remains a primary focus of our strategy.company. The allowance for loancredit losses as a percent of total legacy loans was 0.70%1.22% as of December 31, 2019.2022. Non-performing loans equaled 0.74%0.37% of total loans. Non-performing assets were 0.43%0.23% of total assets, a 6an 8 basis point increasedecrease from December 31, 2018.2021. The allowance for loancredit losses was 95%334% of non-performing loans. Our annualized net charge-offs to total loans for 20192022 was 0.31%0.09%. Excluding credit cards, the annualized net charge-offs to total loans for the same period was 0.28%0.07%. Annualized net credit card charge-offs to average total credit card loans were 1.86%1.49%, compared to 1.64%1.42% during 2018,2021, and 16345 basis points better than the most recently published industry average charge-off ratio as reported by the Federal Reserve for all banks.
 
We have had substantial growth from acquisitions and from loans migrating from acquired to legacy. When acquired loans renew, they are evaluated and if considered a pass quality credit they will migrate to the legacy portfolio and require less reserves. In addition, new loans also only require the minimum allowance consideration.
We do not own any securities backed by subprime mortgage assets, and offer no mortgage loan products that target subprime borrowers. 

Table 109 presents information concerning non-performing assets, including nonaccrual loans at amortized cost and restructured loans and other real estate owned (excluding all loans acquired).foreclosed assets held for sale.


Table 10:9: Non-performing Assets 

 Years Ended December 31, Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015(Dollars in thousands)20222021202020192018
Nonaccrual loans (1)
 $70,836
 $34,201
 $45,642
 $39,104
 $17,714
Nonaccrual loans (1)
$58,434 $68,204 $122,879 $93,330 $55,841 
Loans past due 90 days or more (principal or interest payments) 259
 224
 520
 299
 1,191
Loans past due 90 days or more (principal or interest payments)507 349 578 856 226 
Total non-performing loans 71,095
 34,425
 46,162
 39,403
 18,905
Total non-performing loans58,941 68,553 123,457 94,186 56,067 
Other non-performing assets:          Other non-performing assets:
Foreclosed assets held for sale 19,121
 25,565
 32,118
 26,895
 44,820
Foreclosed assets held for sale and other real estate ownedForeclosed assets held for sale and other real estate owned2,887 6,032 18,393 19,121 25,565 
Other non-performing assets 1,964
 553
 675
 471
 211
Other non-performing assets644 1,667 2,016 1,964 553 
Total other non-performing assets 21,085
 26,118
 32,793
 27,366
 45,031
Total other non-performing assets3,531 7,699 20,409 21,085 26,118 
Total non-performing assets $92,180
 $60,543
 $78,955
 $66,769
 $63,936
Total non-performing assets$62,472 $76,252 $143,866 $115,271 $82,185 
          
Performing TDRs $4,411
 $6,369
 $7,107
 $10,998
 $3,031
Performing TDRs$1,849$4,289$3,138$5,887$7,436
Allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans 95% 164% 90% 92% 166%
Non-performing loans to total loans (2)
 0.74% 0.41% 0.81% 0.91% 0.58%
Non-performing assets (including performing TDRs) to total assets (2)
 0.45% 0.40% 0.57% 0.93% 0.89%
Non-performing assets to total assets (2)
 0.43% 0.37% 0.52% 0.79% 0.85%
Allowance for credit losses to non-performing loansAllowance for credit losses to non-performing loans334 %300 %193 %72 %101 %
Non-performing loans to total loansNon-performing loans to total loans0.37 %0.57 %0.96 %0.65 %0.48 %
Non-performing assets (including performing TDRs) to total assetsNon-performing assets (including performing TDRs) to total assets0.23 %0.33 %0.66 %0.57 %0.54 %
Non-performing assets to total assetsNon-performing assets to total assets0.23 %0.31 %0.64 %0.54 %0.50 %
_________________________
(1)    Includes nonaccrual TDRs of approximately $902,000, $2.8$1.6 million, $5.8$2.7 million, $3.2$4.4 million, $1.6 million and $2.5$6.3 million at December 31, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015,2018, respectively.
(2)    Excludes all loans acquired except for their inclusion in total assets.

There was no interest income on the nonaccrual loans recorded for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017.
At December 31, 2019, impaired loans, net of government guarantees and acquired loans, were $68.9 million compared to $35.8 million at December 31, 2018. On an ongoing basis, management evaluates the underlying collateral on all impaired loans and allocates specific reserves, where appropriate, in order to absorb potential losses if the collateral were ultimately foreclosed.2020.
 
Allowance for LoanCredit Losses
 
Overview
The allowance for loancredit losses is a reserve established through a provision for loancredit losses charged to expense which represents management’s best estimate of probablelifetime expected losses based on reasonable and supportable forecasts, historical loss experience, and other qualitative considerations.

Loans with similar risk characteristics such as loan type, collateral type, and internal risk ratings are aggregated into homogeneous segments for assessment. Reserve factors are based on estimated probability of default and loss given default for each segment. The estimates are determined based on economic forecasts over the reasonable and supportable forecast period based on projected performance of economic variables that have a statistical correlation with the historical loss experience of the segments. For contractual periods that extend beyond the one-year forecast period, the estimates revert to average historical loss experiences over a one-year period on a straight-line basis.

48


We also include qualitative adjustments to the allowance based on factors and considerations that have not otherwise been incurred within the existing portfolio of loans. The allowance,fully accounted for. Qualitative adjustments include, but are not limited to:

Changes in asset quality - Adjustments related to trending credit quality metrics including delinquency, nonperforming loans, charge-offs, and risk ratings that may not be fully accounted for in the judgmentreserve factor.
Changes in the nature and volume of management, is necessarythe portfolio - Adjustments related to reserve for estimated loan losses and risks inherentcurrent changes in the loan portfolio. The Company’s allowanceportfolio that are not fully represented or accounted for loan loss methodology includes allowance allocations calculated in accordance with ASC Topic 310-10, Receivables, and allowance allocations calculated in accordance with ASC Topic 450-20, Loss Contingencies.  Accordingly, the methodology is based on our internal grading system, specific impairment analysis, qualitative and quantitativereserve factors.
As mentioned above, allocations to the allowance forChanges in lending and loan losses are categorized as either specific allocations or general allocations.
Specific Allocations
A loan is considered impaired when it is probable that we will not receive all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan, including scheduled principal and interest payments. For a collateral dependent loan, our evaluation process includes a valuation by appraisal or other collateral analysis. This valuation is compared to the remaining outstanding principal balance of the loan. If a loss is determined to be probable, the loss is included in the allowance for loan losses as a specific allocation. If the loan is not collateral dependent, the measurement of loss is based on the difference between the expected and contractual future cash flows of the loan.



General Allocations
The general allocation is calculated monthly based on management’s assessment of several factors such as (1) historical loss experience based on volumes and types, (2) volume and trends in delinquencies and nonaccruals, (3) lendingmonitoring policies and procedures including those for - Adjustments related to current changes in lending and loan losses, collections and recoveries, (4) national, state and local economic trends and conditions, (5) external factors and pressure from competition, (6)monitoring procedures as well as review of specific internal policy compliance metrics.
Changes in the experience, ability, and depth of lending management and other relevant staff (7) seasoning - Adjustments to measure increasing or decreasing credit risk related to lending and loan monitoring management.
Changes in the value of new products obtainedunderlying collateral of collateralized loans - Adjustments related to improving or deterioration of the value of underlying collateral that are not fully captured in the reserve factors.
Changes in and new markets entered through acquisitionthe existence and (8) other factorseffect of any concentrations of credit - Adjustments related to credit risk of specific industries that are not fully captured in the reserve factors.
Changes in regional and trendslocal economic and business conditions and developments - Adjustments related to expected and current economic conditions at a regional or local-level that will affect specificare not fully captured within our reasonable and supportable forecast.
Data imprecisions due to limited historical loss data - Adjustments related to limited historical loss data that is representative of the collective loan portfolio.

Loans that do not share similar risk characteristics are evaluated on an individual basis. These evaluations are typically performed on loans and categories of loans. We established general allocations for each major loan category. This category also includes allocations to loans whichwith a deteriorated internal risk rating or that are collectively evaluated for loss suchclassified as credit cards, one-to-four family owner occupied residential real estate loans and other consumer loans.
Reserve for Unfunded Commitments
In addition to thea TDR. The allowance for loan losses, we have established a reserve for unfunded commitments, classified in other liabilities. This reservecredit loss is maintained at a level sufficient to absorb losses arising from unfunded loan commitments. The reserve for unfunded commitments as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 was $8.4 million and $6.9 million, respectively. The adequacydetermined based on several methods including estimating the fair value of the reserve for unfunded commitments is determined monthly based on methodology similarunderlying collateral or the present value of expected cash flows.

Additional information related to our methodology for determining the allowance for loan losses. Net adjustments to the reserve for unfunded commitments are included in other non-interest expense.

Our methodology and calculations regarding the reserve for unfunded commitments will change significantly due to a change in accounting guidance in 2020. See Note 20, New Accounting Standards, in the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this report for additional information regarding implementation and adoption of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.

An analysis of the allowance for loan losses for the last five yearsnet charge-offs is shown in Table 11.10. 

Table 11:10: Allowance for Loan LossesRatio of Net Charge-offs to Average Loans
 
(Dollars in thousands)Net Charge-offsAverage LoansRatio of Net Charge-offs to Average Loans
2022
Credit cards$(2,838)$190,119 (1.49)%
Other consumer(679)177,420 (0.38)%
Real estate2,794 11,157,499 0.03 %
Commercial(11,897)2,557,060 (0.47)%
Other— 337,665 — %
Total$(12,620)$14,419,763 (0.09)%
2021
Credit cards$(2,577)$180,975 (1.42)%
Other consumer(649)181,573 (0.36)%
Real estate(5,781)8,678,137 (0.07)%
Commercial(5,953)2,363,701 (0.25)%
Other— 406,094 — %
Total$(14,960)$11,810,480 (0.13)%
(Dollars in thousands) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Balance, beginning of year $56,599
 $41,668
 $36,286
 $31,351
 $29,028
Loans charged off:          
Credit card 4,585
 4,051
 3,905
 3,195
 3,107
Other consumer 4,894
 6,637
 3,767
 1,975
 1,672
Real estate 2,319
 5,905
 7,989
 7,517
 1,580
Commercial 22,023
 6,623
 7,837
 3,956
 1,415
Total loans charged off 33,821
 23,216
 23,498
 16,643
 7,774
Recoveries of loans previously charged off:          
Credit card 1,021
 1,005
 1,021
 907
 890
Other consumer 2,357
 557
 2,239
 516
 538
Real estate 496
 991
 990
 351
 203
Commercial 372
 745
 103
 365
 180
Total recoveries 4,246
 3,298
 4,353
 2,139
 1,811
Net loans charged off 29,575
 19,918
 19,145
 14,504
 5,963
Provision for loan losses (1)
 40,776
 34,849
 24,527
 19,439
 8,286
Balance, end of year (2)
 $67,800
 $56,599
 $41,668
 $36,286
 $31,351
           
Net charge-offs to average loans (3)
 0.31% 0.29% 0.35% 0.40% 0.24%
Allowance for loan losses to period-end loans (3)
 0.70% 0.67% 0.73% 0.84% 0.97%
Allowance for loan losses to net charge-offs (3)
 229.25% 284.16% 217.64% 250.18% 525.76%

_________________________


49


(1)    Provision for loan losses of $2,464,000 attributable to loans acquired, was excluded from this table for 2019 (total 2019 provision for loan losses is $43,240,000), $3,299,000 was excluded from this table for 2018 (total 2018 provision for loan losses is $38,148,000), and $1,866,000 was excluded from this table for 2017 (total 2017 provision for loan losses is $26,393,000). Charge offs of $3,015,000 and recoveries of $900,000 on loans acquired were excluded from this table for 2019 resulting in an ending balance in the allowance related to loans acquired of $444,000. There were $3,622,000 in charge-offs for loans acquired during 2018 resulting in an ending balance in the allowance related to loans acquired of $95,000. There were $2,402,000 in charge-offs for loans acquired during 2017 resulting in an ending balance in the allowance related to loans acquired of $418,000. Provision for loan losses of $626,000 attributable to loans acquired was excluded from this table for 2016 (total 2016 provision for loan losses was $20,065,000) and $736,000 was excluded from this table for 2015 (total 2015 provision for loan losses is $9,022,000). The $626,000 and $736,000 was subsequently charged-off, resulting in no increase in the allowance related to loans acquired in the years 2016 and 2015.
(2)    Allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017 includes $444,000, $95,000, and $418,000, respectively, of allowance for loans acquired (not shown in the table above) and $954,000 at December 31, 2016 and 2015 of allowance for loans acquired (not shown in the table above). The total allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015 was $68,244,000, $56,694,000, $42,086,000, $37,240,000, and $32,305,000, respectively.
(3)    Excludes all acquired loans.

Provision for Loan Losses
The amount of provision added to the allowance each year was based on management’s judgment, with consideration given to the composition of the portfolio, historical loan loss experience, assessment of current economic conditions, past due and non-performing loans and net loss experience. It is management’s practice to review the allowance on a monthly basis, and after considering the factors previously noted, to determine the level of provision made to the allowance.
Allowance for LoanCredit Losses Allocation
The Company may also consider additional qualitative factors in future periods for allowance allocations, including, among other factors, (1) seasoning of the loan portfolio, (2) the offering of new loan products, (3) specific industry conditions affecting portfolio segments and (4) the Company’s expansion into new markets.  
 
As of December 31, 2019,2022, the allowance for loancredit losses reflects an increasereflected a decrease of approximately $11.2$8.4 million from December 31, 2018,2021, while total loans excluding loans acquired, increased by $1.2$4.13 billion over the same period. The allocation in each category within the allowance generally reflects the overall changes in the loan portfolio mix.
 
The decrease in the allowance for credit losses during 2022 was predominantly due to improved credit quality metrics and improved macroeconomic factors, coupled with the planned exit of several large oil and gas relationships during the year, which historically required higher allowance levels than most other categories of the loan portfolio. Additionally, there was a reduction of pandemic-era qualitative factors that were established based on unidentifiable risks with borrowers in at-risk industries. The decrease was partially offset due to the Spirit acquisition, which provided $2.29 billion in total loans after purchase accounting discounts. Our allowance for credit losses at December 31, 2022 was considered appropriate given the current economic environment and other related factors.

The following table sets forth the sum of the amounts of the allowance for loancredit losses attributable to individual loans within each category, or loan categories in general. The table also reflects the percentage of loans in each category to the total loan portfolio excluding loans acquired, for each of the periods indicated. TheseThe allowance amounts have been computed using the Company’s internal grading system,for credit losses by loan category is determined by i) our estimated reserve factors by category including applicable qualitative adjustments and ii) any specific impairment analysis, qualitative and quantitative factor allocations.allowance allocations that are identified on individually evaluated loans. The amounts shown are not necessarily indicative of the actual future losses that may occur within individual categories.



Table 12:11: Allocation of Allowance for LoanCredit Losses 

 December 31, December 31,
 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 20222021202020192018
(Dollars in thousands) Allowance Amount 
% of loans(1)
 Allowance Amount 
% of loans(1)
 Allowance Amount 
% of loans(1)
 Allowance Amount 
% of loans(1)
 Allowance Amount 
% of loans(1)
(Dollars in thousands)Allowance Amount
% of loans (1)
Allowance Amount
% of loans (1)
Allowance Amount
% of loans (1)
Allowance Amount
% of loans (1)
Allowance Amount
% of loans (1)
Credit cards $4,051
 2.1% $3,923
 2.4% $3,784
 3.2% $3,779
 4.3% $3,893
 5.5%Credit cards$5,140 1.2%$3,987 1.6%$7,472 1.4%$4,051 1.4%$3,923 1.7%
Other consumer 1,998
 2.0% 2,380
 2.4% 3,489
 4.9% 2,796
 7.0% 1,853
 6.4%Other consumer2,187 0.9%2,676 1.4%4,100 1.6%1,998 1.7%2,380 1.9%
Real estate 38,717
 71.5% 29,743
 70.8% 27,281
 74.3% 21,817
 70.0% 19,522
 67.9%Real estate150,795 78.0%179,270 76.3%182,868 71.5%39,161 75.5%29,838 75.1%
Commercial 22,863
 21.5% 20,514
 23.0% 7,007
 17.1% 7,739
 18.2% 5,985
 20.0%Commercial34,406 17.6%17,458 18.0%42,093 21.3%22,863 19.5%20,514 20.1%
Other 171
 2.9% 39
 1.4% 107
 0.5% 155
 0.5% 98
 0.2%Other4,427 2.3%1,941 2.7%1,517 4.2%171 1.9%39 1.2%
Total (2)
 $67,800
 100.0% $56,599
 100.0% $41,668
 100.0% $36,286
 100.0% $31,351
 100.0%
TotalTotal$196,955 100.0%$205,332 100.0%$238,050 100.0%$68,244 100.0%$56,694 100.0%
Allowance for credit losses to period-end loansAllowance for credit losses to period-end loans1.22 %1.71 %1.85 %0.47 %0.48 %
_________________________
(1)    Percentage of loans in each category to total loans, excluding loans acquired.loans.
(2)    Allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017 includes $444,000, $95,000, and $418,000, respectively, of allowance for loans acquired (not shown in the table above) and $954,000 at December 31, 2016 and 2015 of allowance for loans acquired (not shown in the table above). The total allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015 was $68,244,000, $56,694,000, $42,086,000, $37,240,000, and $32,305,000, respectively.
Investments and Securities

Our securities portfolio is the second largest component of earning assets and provides a significant source of revenue. Securities within the portfolio are classified as either held-to-maturity (“HTM”) or available-for-sale or trading.(“AFS”).
 
Held-to-maturityHTM securities, which include any security for which management haswe have the positive intent and ability to hold until maturity, are carried at historical cost adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. Premiums and discounts are amortized and accreted, respectively, to interest income using the constant effective yield method over the period to maturity. Interestsecurity’s estimated life. Prepayments are anticipated for mortgage-backed and dividendsSBA securities. Premiums on investments in debt and equitycallable securities are included in income when earned.amortized to their earliest call date.
 
Available-for-saleAFS securities, which include any security for which management haswe have no immediate plansplan to sell but which may be sold in the future, are carried at fair value. Realized gains and losses, based on specifically identified amortized cost of the specificindividual security, are included in other income. Unrealized gains and losses are recorded, net of related income tax effects, in stockholders’ equity. Premiums and discounts are amortized and accreted, respectively, to interest income using the constant effective yield

50


method over the period to maturity. Interestestimated life of the security. Prepayments are anticipated for mortgage-backed and dividendsSBA securities. Premiums on investments in debt and equitycallable securities are included in income when earned.amortized to their earliest call date.

Our philosophy regarding investments is conservative based on investment type and maturity. Investments in the portfolio primarily include U.S. Treasury securities, U.S. Government agencies, mortgage-backed securities and municipal securities. Our general policy is not to invest in derivative type investments or high-risk securities, except for collateralized mortgage-backed securities for which collection of principal and interest is not subordinated to significant superior rights held by others.

Held-to-maturityHTM and available-for-saleAFS investment securities were $40.9 million$3.76 billion and $3.5$3.85 billion, respectively, at December 31, 2019,2022, compared to the held-to-maturityHTM amount of $289.2 million$1.53 billion and available-for-saleAFS amount of $2.2$7.11 billion at December 31, 2018.2021. We will continue to look for opportunities to maximize the value of the investment portfolio.
 
As of December 31, 2019, $644.02022, $634.5 million, or 18.6%8.3%, of the available-for-sale securities wereour total portfolio was invested in obligations of U.S. government agencies and U.S. Treasury and U.S. Government agency securities, 78.8%0.1% of which will mature in less than five years.one year or less.

In order to reduce our income tax burden, $907.6 million, or 26.0%, of our totalOur investment portfolio as of December 31, 2019, was invested in2022 also included $2.73 billion, or 35.9%, of tax-exempt obligations of state and political subdivisions. A portion of the state and political subdivision debt obligations are rated bonds, primarily issued in states in which we are located, and are evaluated on an ongoing basis. In an effort to balance our interest risk profile, we have continued to increase our asset allocation in the tax-exempt securities portfolio due to the acceleration of pre-payment speeds for mortgage-backed securities. We continue to invest in high credit tax-exempt securities with a weighted average rating of AA. There are no securities of any one state or political subdivision issuer exceeding ten percent of our stockholders’ equity at December 31, 2019.2022.
 


We had approximately $1.8$3.73 billion, or 50.2%49.0%, of our total portfolio invested in mortgaged-backed securities at December 31, 2019. Investments with limited marketability, such2022. These mortgage-backed securities were issued by agencies of the U.S. government.

During the quarters ended June 30, 2022 and September 30, 2021, we transferred, at fair value, $1.99 billion and $500.8 million, respectively, of securities from the available-for-sale portfolio to the held-to-maturity portfolio. As of December 31, 2022, the related remaining net unrealized losses of $147.0 million and net unrealized gains of $690,000, respectively, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) will be amortized over the remaining life of the securities. No gains or losses on these securities were recognized at the time of transfer.

Additionally, during the third quarter of 2021, we began utilizing interest rate swaps designated as stockfair value hedges to mitigate the effect of changing interest rates on the fair values of $1.0 billion of fixed rate callable municipal securities held in the FRBAFS portfolio. These swap agreements consist of a two year forward start date and involve the Federal Home Loan Bank,payment of fixed interest rates with a weighted average of 1.21% in exchange for variable interest rates based on federal funds rates beginning in the third quarter of 2023. Securities within these swap agreements have maturity dates varying between 2028 and 2029.

The adoption of ASU 2016-13 at the beginning of 2020 required us to replace the existing impairment models for financial assets, which includes investment securities. Under this model, an estimate of expected credit losses that represents all contractual cash flows that is deemed uncollectible over the contractual life of the financial asset must be recorded. Based upon our analysis of the underlying risk characteristics of the AFS portfolio, including credit ratings and other qualitative factors, no allowance for credit losses related to AFS securities was deemed necessary at December 31, 2022 and 2021. Our allowance for credit losses related to HTM securities was $1.4 million and $1.3 million at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

An allowance for credit losses related to mortgage-backed securities and U.S. government agencies was not recorded as of December 31, 2022 due to those securities being explicitly or implicitly guaranteed by the U.S. government, are carried at costhighly rated by major rating agencies and are reported as other availablehave a long history of no credit losses. See Note 3, Investment Securities, in the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for sale securities.additional information related to our allowance for credit losses on investment securities held.

We had $13.3$46,000 of gross realized gains and $324,000 of gross realized losses from the call of securities during the year ended December 31, 2022, compared to $15.9 million of gross realized gains and $4,000$422,000 of gross realized losses from the sale of securities during the year ended December 31, 20192021. No securities were sold during 2022, while we sold approximately $342.6 million of investment securities during 2021. Securities sold during 2021 were part of a strategic plan to realize gains on securities with projected calls within the short-term period. The decrease in net gains on the call of securities in 2022 as compared to $65,000 of gross realized gains and $4,000 of gross realized losses from2021 reflects the sale of securitiesrising interest rate environment experienced during the current year ended December 31, 2018.as compared to 2021.

Declines in the fair value of held-to-maturity and available-for-sale securities below their cost that are deemed to be other than temporary are reflected in earnings as realized losses. In estimating other-than-temporary impairment losses, management considers, 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 to retain its investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value.

Management has51


We have the ability and intent to hold the securities classified as held to maturityHTM until they mature, at which time we expect to receive full value for the securities. The contractual terms of those investments do not permit the issuer to settle the securities at a price less than the amortized cost bases of the investments. Furthermore, as of December 31, 2019, management2022, we also had the ability and intent to hold the securities classified as available-for-saleAFS for a period of time sufficient for a recovery of cost. The unrealized losses are largely due to increases in market interest rates over the yields available at the time the underlying securities were purchased. The fair value is expected to recover as the bonds approach their maturity date or repricing date or if market yields for such investments decline. Management doesWe do not believe any of the securities are impaired due to reasons of credit quality. Accordingly, as of December 31, 2019, management believes2022, we believe the impairmentsdeclines in fair value detailed in the table below are temporary. Should the impairment of any of these securities become other than temporary, the cost basis of the investment will be reduced and the resulting loss recognized in net income in the period the other-than-temporary impairment is identified.

Table 1312 presents the carryingamortized cost, fair value and fair value ofallowance for credit losses on investment securities for each of the years indicated.
 
Table 13:12: Investment Securities

(In thousands)Amortized CostAllowance
for Credit Losses
Net Carrying AmountGross Unrealized
Gains
Gross Unrealized
(Losses)
Estimated Fair
Value
Held-to-maturity   
December 31, 2022
U.S. Government agencies$448,012 $— $448,012 $— $(102,558)$345,454 
Mortgage-backed securities1,190,781 — 1,190,781 227 (118,960)1,072,048 
State and political subdivisions1,861,102 (110)1,860,992 56 (446,198)1,414,850 
Other securities261,199 (1,278)259,921 — (29,040)230,881 
Total HTM$3,761,094 $(1,388)$3,759,706 $283 $(696,756)$3,063,233 
December 31, 2021
U.S. Government agencies$232,609 $— $232,609 $— $(7,914)$224,695 
Mortgage-backed securities70,342 — 70,342 232 (1,425)69,149 
State and political subdivisions1,210,248 (1,197)1,209,051 6,166 (8,462)1,206,755 
Other securities17,301 (82)17,219 — (440)16,779 
Total HTM$1,530,500 $(1,279)$1,529,221 $6,398 $(18,241)$1,517,378 

(In thousands)Amortized
Cost
Allowance for Credit LossesGross Unrealized
Gains
Gross Unrealized
(Losses)
Estimated Fair
Value
Available-for-sale
December 31, 2022
U.S. Treasury$2,257 $— $— $(60)$2,197 
U.S. Government agencies191,498 — 103 (7,322)184,279 
Mortgage-backed securities2,809,319 — 20 (266,437)2,542,902 
State and political subdivisions1,056,124 — 250 (185,300)871,074 
Other securities272,215 — — (19,813)252,402 
Total AFS$4,331,413 $— $373 $(478,932)$3,852,854 
December 31, 2021
U.S. Treasury$300 $— $— $— $300 
U.S. Government agencies374,754 — 495 (10,608)364,641 
Mortgage-backed securities4,485,548 — 6,307 (43,239)4,448,616 
State and political subdivisions1,791,097 — 30,556 (1,995)1,819,658 
Other securities479,162 — 6,647 (5,479)480,330 
Total AFS$7,130,861 $— $44,005 $(61,321)$7,113,545 


52

 Years Ended December 31,
 2019 2018
 Amortized 
Gross
Unrealized
 
Gross
Unrealized
 
Estimated
Fair
 Amortized 
Gross
Unrealized
 
Gross
Unrealized
 
Estimated
Fair
(In thousands)Cost Gains (Losses) Value Cost Gains (Losses) Value
Held-to-Maturity  
  
  
  
  
  
  
U.S. Government agencies$
 $
 $
 $
 $16,990
 $
 $(49) $16,941
Mortgage-backed securities10,796
 71
 (59) 10,808
 13,346
 5
 (412) 12,939
State and political subdivisions27,082
 849
 
 27,931
 256,863
 3,029
 (954) 258,938
Other securities3,049
 67
 
 3,116
 1,995
 17
 
 2,012
Total HTM$40,927
 $987
 $(59) $41,855
 $289,194
 $3,051
 $(1,415) $290,830
                
Available-for-Sale              
U.S. Treasury$449,729
 $112
 $(112) $449,729
 $
 $
 $
 $
U.S. Government agencies194,207
 1,313
 (1,271) 194,249
 157,523
 518
 (3,740) 154,301
Mortgage-backed securities1,738,584
 8,510
 (4,149) 1,742,945
 1,552,487
 3,097
 (32,684) 1,522,900
State and political subdivisions860,539
 20,983
 (998) 880,524
 320,142
 171
 (5,470) 314,843
Other securities185,087
 822
 (18) 185,891
 157,471
 2,251
 (14) 159,708
Total AFS$3,428,146
 $31,740
 $(6,548) $3,453,338
 $2,187,623
 $6,037
 $(41,908) $2,151,752



Table 1413 reflects the amortized cost and estimated fair value of securities at December 31, 2019,2022, by contractual maturity and the weighted average yields (for tax-exempt obligations on a fully taxable equivalent basis, assuming a 26.135% tax rate) of such securities. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations, with or without call or prepayment penalties.
 
Table 14:13: Maturity Distribution of Investment Securities
  December 31, 2019
    Over Over          
    1 year 5 years     Total
  1 year through through Over No fixed Amortized Par Fair
(In thousands) or less 5 years 10 years 10 years maturity Cost Value Value
Held-to-Maturity  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Mortgage-backed securities $
 $
 $
 $
 $10,796
 $10,796
 $10,909
 $10,808
State and political subdivisions 4,897
 15,972
 6,213
 
 
 27,082
 26,844
 27,931
Other securities 
 
 1,174
 1,875
 
 3,049
 3,075
 3,116
Total $4,897
 $15,972
 $7,387
 $1,875
 $10,796
 $40,927
 $40,828
 $41,855
                 
Percentage of total 12.0% 39.0% 18.0% 4.6% 26.4% 100.0%    
                 
Weighted average yield 2.4% 2.6% 5.7% 1.0% 2.3% 3.0%    
                 
Available-for-Sale                
U.S. Treasury $449,729
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $449,729
 $450,000
 $449,729
U.S. Government agencies 33,053
 24,543
 25,814
 110,797
 
 194,207
 192,665
 194,249
Mortgage-backed securities 
 
 
 
 1,738,584
 1,738,584
 1,699,947
 1,742,945
State and political subdivisions 11,649
 48,406
 86,126
 714,358
 
 860,539
 840,880
 880,524
Other securities 
 
 17,149
 
 167,938
 185,087
 185,511
 185,891
Total $494,431
 $72,949
 $129,089
 $825,155
 $1,906,522
 $3,428,146
 $3,369,003
 $3,453,338
                 
Percentage of total 14.4% 2.1% 3.8% 24.1% 55.6% 100.0%    
                 
Weighted average yield 1.5% 2.4% 3.0% 3.0% 2.3% 2.4%    


 December 31, 2022
  OverOver     
  1 year5 years  Total
 1 yearthroughthroughOverNo fixedAmortizedParFair
(In thousands)or less5 years10 years10 yearsmaturityCostValueValue
Held-to-Maturity        
U.S. Government agencies$$$79,181$368,831$$448,012$480,246 $345,454 
Mortgage-backed securities1,190,7811,190,7811,254,601 1,072,048 
State and political subdivisions2,6395,70016,7111,836,0521,861,1021,873,508 1,414,850 
Other securities2,122256,5582,519261,199274,878 230,881 
Total$2,639$7,822$352,450$2,207,402 $1,190,781$3,761,094$3,883,233 $3,063,233 
Percentage of total0.1 %0.2 %9.4 %58.6 %31.7 %100.0 %
Weighted average yield3.2 %3.7 %3.4 %2.5 %3.0 %2.7 %
Available-for-Sale
U.S. Treasury$$2,257$$$$2,257$2,300 $2,197 
U.S. Government agencies9,62294,16840,59747,111191,498189,650 184,279 
Mortgage-backed securities2,809,3192,809,3192,753,345 2,542,902 
State and political subdivisions2,74614,49619,7021,019,1801,056,1241,107,594 871,074 
Other securities73,603198,152460272,215271,827 252,402 
Total$12,368$184,524$258,451$1,066,291 $2,809,779 $4,331,413 $4,324,716 $3,852,854 
Percentage of total0.3 %4.3 %6.0 %24.5 %64.9 %100.0 %
Weighted average yield2.5 %2.7 %3.9 %2.3 %2.3 %2.5 %

Deposits
 
Deposits are our primary source of funding for earning assets and are primarily developed through our network of 251approximately 230 financial centers. We offer a variety of products designed to attract and retain customers with a continuing focus on developing core deposits. Our core deposits consist of all deposits excluding time deposits of $100,000 or more than $250,000 and brokered deposits. As of December 31, 2019,2022, core deposits comprised 80.0%83.0% of our total deposits.
 
We continually monitor the funding requirements along with competitive interest rates in the markets we serve. Because of our community banking philosophy, our executives in the local markets, with oversight by the Chief Deposit Officer, Asset Liability Committee and the Bank’s Treasury Department, establish the interest rates offered on both core and non-core deposits. This approach ensures that the interest rates being paid are competitively priced for each particular deposit product and structured to meet the funding requirements. We believe we are paying a competitive rate when compared with pricing in those markets.




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We manage our interest expense through deposit pricing. We believe that additional funds can be attracted and deposit growth can be accelerated through deposit pricing if we experience increased loan demand or other liquidity needs. We can also utilize brokered deposits as an additional source of funding to meet liquidity needs. We are continually monitoring and looking for opportunities to fairly reprice our deposits while remaining competitive in this current challenging rate environment.
 
Our total deposits as of December 31, 2019,2022, were $16.1$22.55 billion, an increase of $3.71$3.18 billion from December 31, 2018. The increase was2021, primarily duedriven by the acquisition of Spirit, which contributed $2.72 billion, net of fair value adjustments, to the 2019 acquisitions; however, we also achieved organic core deposit growth during 2019. This core deposit growth was partially offset by a $684.3 million decrease in our brokered and institutional deposits during the year. Non-interestthis increase. Noninterest bearing transaction accounts, interest bearing transaction accounts and savings accounts totaled $12.8$17.78 billion at December 31, 2019,2022, compared to $9.5$16.91 billion at December 31, 2018, a $3.3 billion2021, an $865.4 million increase. Total time deposits increased $380.8 million$2.32 billion to $3.3$4.77 billion at December 31, 2019,2022, from $2.9$2.45 billion at December 31, 2018.2021. We had $1.1$2.75 billion and $1.4 billion$466.0 million of brokered deposits at December 31, 2019,2022, and December 31, 2018,2021, respectively. Our uninsured deposits as of December 31, 2022 and 2021 were $7.27 billion and $7.48 billion, respectively.

We made the strategic decision during the fourth quarter 2022 to extend the duration of select wholesale deposits to complement our core deposit base and, due to advantageous rates, added brokered certificates of deposit with maturities of 6-12 months. Additionally, we are continuing to hone our product offerings to give customers flexibility of choice while maintaining the ability to adjust interest rates timely in the current rate environment.
 
Table 1514 reflects the classification of the average deposits and the average rate paid on each deposit category which is in excess of 10 percent of average total deposits for the three years ended December 31, 2019.2022.
 
Table 15:14: Average Deposit Balances and Rates
 
 December 31, December 31,
 2019 2018 2017 202220212020
(In thousands) Average Amount Average Rate Paid Average Amount Average Rate Paid Average Amount Average Rate Paid(In thousands)Average AmountAverage Rate PaidAverage AmountAverage Rate PaidAverage AmountAverage Rate Paid
Non-interest bearing transaction accounts $3,021,917
 % $2,697,235
 % $1,788,385
 %
Noninterest bearing transaction accountsNoninterest bearing transaction accounts$5,827,160 — %$4,836,839 — %$4,225,618 — %
Interest bearing transaction and savings deposits 7,417,104
 1.08% 6,691,030
 0.85% 4,594,733
 0.39%Interest bearing transaction and savings deposits12,253,164 0.51 %10,638,665 0.18 %9,128,936 0.42 %
Time deposits            Time deposits3,094,747 1.16 %2,804,851 0.77 %3,006,768 1.38 %
$100,000 or more 1,994,276
 2.02% 1,366,745
 1.50% 650,560
 0.72%
Other time deposits 1,099,818
 1.67% 977,558
 1.00% 780,141
 0.64%
Total $13,533,115
 1.03% $11,732,568
 0.74% $7,813,819
 0.36%Total$21,175,071 0.47 %$18,280,355 0.23 %$16,361,322 0.49 %
 
The Company’sOur maturities of large denomination time deposits not covered by deposit insurance at December 31, 2019 and 20182022 are presented in Table 16.15.
 
Table 16:15: Maturities of Large Denomination Time Deposits Not Covered by Deposit Insurance 
December 31, 2022
(In thousands)BalancePercent
Maturing  
Three months or less$341,081 48.0 %
Over 3 months to 6 months139,565 19.6 %
Over 6 months to 12 months167,670 23.6 %
Over 12 months62,633 8.8 %
Total$710,949 100.0 %


54
  
Time Certificates of Deposit
($100,000 or more)
December 31,
  2019 2018
(In thousands) Balance Percent Balance Percent
Maturing  
  
  
  
Three months or less $676,042
 31.4% $511,414
 35.5%
Over 3 months to 6 months 427,426
 19.9% 240,056
 16.6%
Over 6 months to 12 months 650,906
 30.2% 407,989
 28.3%
Over 12 months 399,050
 18.5% 283,070
 19.6%
Total $2,153,424
 100.0% $1,442,529
 100.0%



FedFederal Funds Purchased and Securities Sold underUnder Agreements to Repurchase

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase were $150.1$160.4 million at December 31, 2019,2022, as compared to $95.8$185.4 million at December 31, 2018.2021.
 
We have historically funded our growth in earning assets through the use of core deposits, large certificates of deposits from local markets, reciprocal brokered deposits, FHLB borrowings and Federal funds purchased. Management anticipates that these sources will provide necessary funding in the foreseeable future.

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Other Borrowings and Subordinated Debentures

Our total debt was $1.69$1.23 billion and $1.70$1.72 billion at December 31, 20192022 and December 31, 2018,2021, respectively. The outstanding balance for December 31, 20192022 includes $1.25 billion$835.0 million in FHLB short-term advances; $12.7 million in FHLB long-term advances; $330.0$366.0 million in subordinated notes; $58.3 million of trust preferred securities, other subordinated debtnotes and unamortized debt issuance costs; and $34.9$20.8 million of other long-term debt.

All of the FHLB short-term advances outstanding at the end of 2019December 31, 2022 are FHLB Owns the Option (“FOTO”) advances thatwhich are a low cost, fixed-rate source of funding in return for granting to FHLB the flexibility to choose a termination date earlier than the maturity date. Our

During the fourth quarter of 2020, we reclassified the FOTO advances as long-term advances due to the low interest rate environment and the expectation that FHLB will not exercise the option to terminate the FOTO advances prior to the stated maturity date. We classified the FOTO advances as long-term throughout 2021, during the continued low interest rate environment. As interest rates increased during 2022, we began classifying the outstanding at the end of the year have ten years to fifteen years maturity dates with lockout periods that have expired and, as a result, are considered and monitoredFOTO advances as short-term advances. with the expectation that the FHLB could terminate the FOTO advances prior to maturity, as current market rates exceeded the outstanding FOTO advance rates.

We continually analyze the possibility of the FHLB exercising the options along with the market expected rate outcome. We also held typical FHLB short-term advances, with original maturities of less than one year, at various times during 2019,2022, as well as in previous years. At December 31, 2022, we had $785.0 million of FHLB advances outstanding with original or expected maturities of one year or less.

A summary of information related to our FHLB short-term advances, including FOTO advances, is presented in Table 17.16.

Table 17:16: Short-Term Borrowings
December 31, December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)2019 2018 2017(Dollars in thousands)202220212020
Amount outstanding at year-end$1,250,000
 $1,330,000
 $1,112,000
Amount outstanding at year-end$835,000 $— $— 
Weighted-average interest rate at year-end1.44% 2.12% 1.31%Weighted-average interest rate at year-end4.20 %— %— %
Maximum amount outstanding at any month-end during the year$1,435,000
 $1,435,000
 $1,112,000
Maximum amount outstanding at any month-end during the year$1,300,000 $— $1,350,000
Average amount outstanding during the year$1,183,873
 $1,276,685
 $481,362
Average amount outstanding during the year$1,124,314 $— $1,094,808
Weighted-average interest rate for the year1.89% 1.75% 1.04%Weighted-average interest rate for the year2.08 %— %1.69 %
 
We assumedDuring the third quarter of 2022, we redeemed the five issuances of trust preferred securities and other subordinated debt inwhich had an outstanding aggregate principal amount net of discounts,$56.2 million. We recorded a loss of $33.9 million$365,000 related to the Landrum acquisition during 2019.

During 2017, we entered into a Revolving Credit Agreement with U.S. Bank National Association and executed an unsecured Revolving Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) pursuant toearly retirement of debt, which we may borrow, prepay and reborrow up to $75.0 million,represented the proceeds of which were primarily used to pay off amounts outstanding under a term note assumedunamortized purchase discounts associated with the First Texas acquisition. In October 2018, we entered into a First Amendment to the Credit Agreement with U.S. Bank National Association, which primarily extended the expiration date to October 2019 and reduced the $75.0 million to $50.0 million. In December 2018, we entered into a Second Amendment to the Credit Agreement that clarified the financial metrics contained in certain affirmative covenants of the Credit Agreement are evaluated on a consolidated basis. All amounts borrowed, together with applicable interest, fees, and other amounts owed by us were due and payable on October 4, 2019. The balance due under the Credit Agreement at December 31, 2018 and the expiration date was zero. We did not renew the Credit Agreement upon the expiration date in October 2019.previously acquired trust preferred securities.

In March 2018, we issued $330.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.00% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes (“Notes”) at a public offering price equal to 100% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes. The CompanyWe incurred $3.6 million in debt issuance costs related to the offering. The Notes will mature on April 1, 2028 and will be subordinated in right of payment to the payment of our other existing and future senior indebtedness, including all our general creditors. The Notes are obligations of the Company only and are not obligations of, and are not guaranteed by, any of its subsidiaries.

During 2018, the Company used a portion

55


We assumed Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes in an aggregate principal amount, net of the net proceeds from the salepremium adjustments, of the Notes to repay certain outstanding indebtedness, including the amounts borrowed under the Credit Agreement and the unsecured debt from correspondent banks. During 2018, we repaid the $75.0 million outstanding balance on the Credit Agreement, $43.3$37.4 million in notesconnection with the Spirit acquisition in April 2022 (the “Spirit Notes”). The Spirit Notes will mature on July 31, 2030, and initially bear interest at a fixed annual rate of 6.00%, payable $94.9 millionquarterly, in trust preferred securitiesarrears, to, but excluding, July 31, 2025. From and $19.1 millionincluding July 31, 2025, to, but excluding, the maturity date or earlier redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly to an interest rate per annum equal to a benchmark rate, which is expected to be the then-current three-month Secured Overnight Financing Rate, as published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (provided, that in subordinated debt acquired from First Texas.the event the benchmark rate is less than zero, the benchmark rate will be deemed to be zero) plus 592 basis points, payable quarterly, in arrears. 


Aggregate annual maturities of debt at December 31, 20192022 are presented in table 18.Table 17.
 
Table 18:17: Maturities of Debt 
 Annual Maturities
Year(In thousands)
2023$1,768 
20241,822 
20251,822 
20261,824 
20271,920 
Thereafter381,129 
Total$390,285 
   Annual
(In thousands)Year Maturities
 2020 $1,253,299
 2021 3,016
 2022 2,187
 2023 2,366
 2024 2,446
 Thereafter 422,545
 Total $1,685,859


Capital
 
Overview
 
At December 31, 2019,2022, total capital reached $2.99was $3.27 billion. Capital represents shareholder ownership in the Company – the book value of assets in excess of liabilities. At December 31, 2019,2022, our common equity to asset ratio was 14.06%11.91% compared to 13.58%13.14% at year-end 2018.2021.
 
Capital Stock
 
On February 27, 2009, at a special meeting, our shareholders approved an amendment to the Articles of Incorporation to establish 40,040,000 authorized shares of preferred stock, $0.01 par value. TheOn April 27, 2022, our shareholders approved an amendment to our Articles of Incorporation to remove an $80.0 million cap on the aggregate liquidation preference of all shares of preferred stock cannot exceed $80,000,000.

On February 12, 2019, the Company filed its Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (“February Amended Articles”)associated with the Arkansas Secretary of State. The February Amended Articles classified and designated three series of preferred stock out of the Corporation’s authorized preferred stock: Series A Preferred Stock, Par Value $0.01 Per Share (having 40,000 authorized shares); Series B Preferred Stock, Par Value $0.01 Per Share (having 2,000.02 authorized shares); and 7% Perpetual Convertible Preferred Stock, Par Value $0.01 Per Share, Series C (having 140 authorized shares).stock.

On October 29, 2019, we filed our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (“October Amended Articles”) with the Arkansas Secretary of State. The October Amended Articles classified and designated Series D Preferred Stock, Par Value $0.01 Per Share, out of our authorized preferred stock. The October Amended Articles also canceled our 7% Perpetual ConvertibleOn November 30, 2021, we redeemed all of the Series D Preferred Stock, Par Value $0.01 Per Share, Series C Preferred Stock, of which no shares were ever issued or outstanding.including accrued and unpaid dividends.

On January 18, 2018, our Board of Directors approved a two-for-one stock split of the Company’s outstanding Class A common stock, $0.01 par value (“Common Stock”), in the form of a 100% stock dividend for shareholders of record as of the close of business on January 30, 2018. The new shares were distributed by our transfer agent, Computershare, and our common stock began trading on a split-adjusted basis on the Nasdaq Global Select Market on February 9, 2018. All previously reported share and per share data included in filings subsequent to February 8, 2018 are restated to reflect the retroactive effect of this two-for-one stock split.

On March 19, 2018,31, 2021, we filed a shelf registration with the SEC. The shelf registration statement provides increased flexibility and more efficient access to raise capital from time to time through the sale of common stock, preferred stock, debt securities, depository shares, warrants, purchase contracts, purchase units, subscription rights, units or a combination thereof, subject to market conditions. Specific terms and prices are determined at the time of any offering under a separate prospectus supplement that we are required to file with the SEC at the time of the specific offering.

On April 19, 2018,27, 2022, our shareholders of the Company approved an increase in the number of authorized shares of Common Stockour Class A common stock from 120,000,000175,000,000 to 175,000,000.350,000,000.
 


56


Stock Repurchase Program
 
On July 23, 2012, the Company approvedOctober 22, 2019, we announced a stock repurchase program (the “2019 Program”) under which authorized thewe could repurchase of up to 1,700,000 shares (split adjusted)$60.0 million of our Class A Common Stock currently issued and outstanding. On March 5, 2020, we announced an amendment to the 2019 Program that increased the maximum amount that could be repurchased under the 2019 Program from $60.0 million to $180.0 million. Effective July 23, 2021, the Company’s Board of Directors approved another amendment to the 2019 Program that increased the amount of the Company’s Class A common stock (“2012 Program”). Onthat may be repurchased from a maximum of $180.0 million to a maximum of $276.5 million and extended the term of the 2019 Program from October 22,31, 2021, to October 31, 2022.

During January 2022, we substantially exhausted the remaining capacity under the 2019 the Company announcedProgram, and our Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase program (the “Program”“2022 Program”), under which we may repurchase up to $60,000,000$175.0 million of our Class A common stockCommon Stock currently issued and outstanding. The 2022 Program replaced the 2019 Program. The 2022 Program will terminate on OctoberJanuary 31, 20212024 (unless terminated sooner).

During 2022, we repurchased 513,725 shares at an average price of $31.25 per share under the 2019 Program and replaced3,919,037 shares at an average price of $24.26 per share under the 2012 Program.2022 Program, respectively. The 2022 Program repurchases were all completed during the second and third quarters of 2022. We repurchased 4,562,469 shares at an average price of $29.03 per share under the 2019 Program during 2021.

Under the 2022 Program, we may repurchase shares of our common stock through open market and privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. The timing, pricing, and amount of any repurchases under the 2022 Program will be determined by the Company’s management at its discretion based on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, trading volume and market price of the Company’sour common stock, corporate considerations, the Company’sour working capital and investment requirements, general market and economic conditions, and legal requirements. The 2022 Program does not obligate the Companyus to repurchase any common stock and may be modified, discontinued, or suspended at any time without prior notice. We anticipate funding for thisthe 2022 Program to come from available sources of liquidity, including cash on hand and future cash flow.

During 2019, we repurchased 390,000 shares at an average price of $25.97 under the Program. We had no stock repurchases during 2018.

Cash Dividends
 
We declared cash dividends on our common stock of $0.64$0.76 per share for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019,2022, compared to $0.60$0.72 per share for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018.2021, an increase of $0.04, or 6%. The timing and amount of future dividends are at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend upon our consolidated earnings, financial condition, liquidity and capital requirements, the amount of cash dividends paid to us by our subsidiaries, applicable government regulations and policies and other factors considered relevant by our Board of Directors. Our Board of Directors anticipates that we will continue to pay quarterly dividends in amounts determined based on the factors discussed above. However, there can be no assurance that we will continue to pay dividends on our common stock at the current levels or at all. See Item 5, Market for Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters, for additional information regarding cash dividends.
 
Parent Company Liquidity
 
The primary liquidity needs of theSimmons First National Corporation (the Parent CompanyCompany) are the payment of dividends to shareholders, the funding of debt obligations and cash needs for acquisitions. The primary sources for meeting these liquidity needs are the current cash on hand at the parent company and the future dividends received from Simmons Bank. Payment of dividends by Simmons Bank is subject to various regulatory limitations. The Company continually assesses its capital and liquidity needs and the best way to meet them, including, without limitation, through capital raising in the market via stock or debt offerings. See Item 7A, Liquidity“Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk,Risk”, for additional information regarding the parent company’s liquidity, which is incorporated herein by reference. The redemption of our trust preferred securities during the third quarter of 2022 did not have a meaningful impact on the Parent Company’s liquidity.
 
Risk-Based Capital
 
Our bank subsidiary isThe Company and Simmons Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on our financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, we must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of our assets, liabilities and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Our capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors.
 

57


Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require us to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the table below) of total, Tier 1 and common equity Tier 1 capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined) and of Tier 1 capital (as defined) to average assets (as defined). Management believes that, as of December 31, 2019,2022, we meetmet all capital adequacy requirements to which we are subject.
 
As of the most recent notification from regulatory agencies, each subsidiarySimmons Bank was well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as well capitalized, the Company and the subsidiary bankSimmons Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based, common equity Tier 1 risk-based and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the table. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed the institutions’bank’s categories.

Our risk-based capital ratios at December 31, 20192022 and 20182021 are presented in Table 1918 below:
 


Table 19:18: Risk-Based Capital 
  December 31,
(Dollars in thousands) 2019 2018
Tier 1 capital:    
Stockholders’ equity $2,988,924
 $2,246,434
Goodwill and other intangible assets (1,160,079) (912,428)
Unrealized (gain) loss on available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes (20,891) 27,374
Total Tier 1 capital 1,807,954
 1,361,380
Tier 2 capital:    
Trust preferred securities and subordinated debt 388,260
 353,950
Qualifying allowance for loan losses 76,644
 63,608
Total Tier 2 capital 464,904
 417,558
Total risk-based capital $2,272,858
 $1,778,938
     
Risk weighted assets $16,554,081
 $13,326,832
     
Assets for leverage ratio $18,852,798
 $15,512,042
     
Ratios at end of year:    
Common equity Tier 1 ratio (CET1) 10.92% 10.22%
Tier 1 leverage ratio 9.59% 8.78%
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio 10.92% 10.22%
Total risk-based capital ratio 13.73% 13.35%
Minimum guidelines:    
Common equity Tier 1 ratio (CET1) 4.50% 4.50%
Tier 1 leverage ratio 4.00% 4.00%
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio 6.00% 6.00%
Total risk-based capital ratio 8.00% 8.00%
 December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20222021
Tier 1 capital:   
Stockholders’ equity$3,269,362 $3,248,841 
CECL transition provision92,619 114,458 
Goodwill and other intangible assets(1,412,667)(1,226,686)
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes517,560 10,545 
Total Tier 1 capital2,466,874 2,147,158 
Tier 2 capital:
Trust preferred securities and subordinated debt365,989 384,131 
Qualifying allowance for credit losses and reserve for unfunded commitments115,627 71,853 
Total Tier 2 capital481,616 455,984 
Total risk-based capital$2,948,490 $2,603,142 
 
Risk weighted assets$20,738,727$15,538,967
Assets for leverage ratio$26,407,061$23,647,901
    
Ratios at end of year:   
Common equity Tier 1 ratio (CET1)11.90 %13.82 %
Tier 1 leverage ratio9.34 %9.08 %
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio11.90 %13.82 %
Total risk-based capital ratio14.22 %16.75 %
Minimum guidelines:
Common equity Tier 1 ratio (CET1)4.50 %4.50 %
Tier 1 leverage ratio4.00 %4.00 %
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio6.00 %6.00 %
Total risk-based capital ratio8.00 %8.00 %

Regulatory Capital Changes
 
In July 2013, the Company’s primary federal regulator,December 2018, the Federal Reserve, publishedOffice of the Comptroller of the Currency and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) (collectively, the “agencies”) issued a final rule revising regulatory capital rules in anticipation of the adoption of ASU 2016-13 that provided an option to phase in over a three year period on a straight line basis the day-one impact of the adoption on earnings and Tier 1 capital (the “Basel III Capital Rules”“CECL Transition Provision”) establishing.



58


In March 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the agencies issued a new comprehensiveregulatory capital frameworkrule revising the CECL Transition Provision to delay the estimated impact on regulatory capital stemming from the implementation of ASU 2016-13. The rule provides banking organizations that implement CECL before the end of 2020 the option to delay for U.S. banks.two years an estimate of CECL’s effect on regulatory capital, followed by a three-year transition period (the “2020 CECL Transition Provision”). The rules implementCompany elected to apply the Basel Committee’s December 2010 framework known as “Basel III” for strengthening international capital standards. The Basel III Capital Rules introduced substantial revisions to the risk-based capital requirements applicable to bank holding companies and depository institutions.2020 CECL Transition Provision.

The Basel III Capital Rules define the components of capital and address other issues affecting the numerator in banking institutions’ regulatory capital ratios. The rules also address risk weights and other issues affecting the denominator in banking institutions’ regulatory capital ratios and replace the existing risk-weighting approach with a more risk-sensitive approach.

The Basel III Capital Rules expanded theestablished risk-weighting categories from four Basel I-derived categories (0%, 20%, 50% and 100%) to a much larger and more risk-sensitive number of categories depending on the nature of the assets, generally ranging from 0% for U.S. government and agency securities, to 600% for certain equity exposures, and resulting in higher risk weights for a variety of asset categories, including many residential mortgages and certain commercial real estate.exposures.
 
The final rules included a new common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 4.5% and a common equity Tier 1 capital conservation buffer of 2.5% of risk-weighted assets. The rules also raised the minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets from 4.0% to 6.0% and require a minimum leverage ratio of 4.0%. The Basel III Capital Rules became effective for the Company and its subsidiary bank on January 1, 2015, with full compliance with all of the final rule’s requirements on January 1, 2019.
 
Prior to December 31, 2017, Tier 1 capital included common equity Tier 1 capital and certain additional Tier 1 items as provided under the Basel III Capital Rules. The Tier 1 capital for the Company consisted of common equity Tier 1 capital and trust preferred


securities. The Basel III Capital Rules include certain provisions that require trust preferred securities to be phased out of qualifying Tier 1 capital when assets surpass $15 billion. As of December 31, 2017, the Company exceeded $15 billion in total assets and the grandfather provisions applicable to its trust preferred securities no longer apply and trust preferred securities are no longer included as Tier 1 capital. TrustAll of the Company’s trust preferred securities and qualifyingwere redeemed during the third quarter of 2022. Qualifying subordinated debt of $388.3$366.0 million is included as Tier 2 and total capital as of December 31, 2019.2022.

Liquidity
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Aggregate Contractual Obligations

In the normal course of business the Company enterswe have entered into a number of contractual obligations and have made commitments to make future payments. Refer to the accompanying notes to consolidated financial commitments.statements elsewhere in this report for the expected timing of such payments as of December 31, 2022. Examples of these commitments at December 31, 2019, include but are not limited to long-term debt financing (Note 12, Other Borrowings and Subordinated Debentures), operating lease obligations (Note, 6, Right-of-Use Lease Assets and Lease Liabilities), time deposits with stated maturity dates (Note 9, Time Deposits), and unfunded loan commitments and letters of credit.
Our long-term debt at December 31, 2019, includes subordinated debt, notes payablecredit (Note 19, Commitments and FHLB advances, all of which we are contractually obligated to repay in future periods.
Credit Risk).
Beginning January 1, 2019, the Company recognizes all leases under ASC Topic 842, Leases, that requires lessees to record assets and liabilities on the balance sheet for all leases with a lease term of 12 months or longer. See Note 7, Right-of-Use Lease Assets and Lease Liabilities and Note 20, New Accounting Standards, for additional information regarding our operating leases and the impact of adoption of the new lease accounting standard.
Commitments to extend credit and letters of credit are legally binding, conditional agreements generally having fixed expiration or termination dates. These commitments generally require customers to maintain certain credit standards and are established based on management’s credit assessment of the customer. The commitments may expire without being drawn upon. Therefore, the total commitment does not necessarily represent future funding requirements.
The funding requirements of the Company’s most significant financial commitments at December 31, 2019 are shown in Table 20.

Table 20:Funding Requirements of Financial Commitments
  Payments due by period
  Less than 1-3 3-5 Greater than  
(In thousands) 1 Year Years Years 5 Years Total
Long-term debt $3,299
 $5,203
 $4,812
 $422,545
 $435,859
Undiscounted minimum lease payments 10,071
 15,489
 8,581
 13,659
 47,800
Credit card loan commitments 634,788
 
 
 
 634,788
Other loan commitments 3,991,931
 
 
 
 3,991,931
Letters of credit 71,074
 
 
 
 71,074




GAAP Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The tables below present computations of coreadjusted earnings (net income excluding non-corecertain items {merger-related costs,{gain on sale of branches, early retirement program costs, one-time costsloss from early retirement of branch right sizing, accelerated vesting on retirement agreements,TruPS, gain on sale of banking operations, gain from early retirement of trust preferred securities,intellectual property, gain on sale of insurance lines of business, loss on FDIC loss-share termination, 2017settlement, donation to the Simmons First Foundation, merger related costs, net branch right sizing costs, and the one-time deferred income tax adjustment from tax reform}Day 2 CECL Provision}) (non-GAAP) and coreadjusted diluted earnings per share (non-GAAP) as well as a reconciliationcomputation of tangible book value per common share (non-GAAP), tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP), core return on average assetsadjusted noninterest income (non-GAAP), return on tangible common equity (non-GAAP), core return on average common equity (non-GAAP), core return on tangible common equity (non-GAAP), the core net interest margin (non-GAAP) and efficiency ratioadjusted noninterest expense (non-GAAP). Non-coreAdjusted items are included in financial results presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP)(US GAAP).
 
We believe the exclusion of these non-corecertain items in expressing earnings and certain other financial measures, including “core“adjusted earnings,” provides a meaningful basis for period-to-period and company-to-company comparisons, which management believes will assist investors and analysts in analyzing the coreadjusted financial measures of the Company and predicting future performance. These non-GAAP financial measures are also used by management to assess the performance of the Company’s business because management does not consider these non-corecertain items to be relevant to ongoing financial performance. Management and the Board of Directors utilize “core“adjusted earnings” (non-GAAP) for the following purposes:
 
•   Preparation of the Company’s operating budgets
•   Monthly financial performance reporting
•   Monthly “flash” reporting of consolidated results (management only)
•   Investor presentations of Company performance
 


59


We believe the presentation of “core“adjusted earnings” on a diluted per share basis “core diluted earnings per share” (non-GAAP) and core net interest margin (non-GAAP), provides a meaningful basis for period-to-period and company-to-company comparisons, which management believes will assist investors and analysts in analyzing the coreadjusted financial measures of the Company and predicting future performance. These non-GAAP financial measures are also used by management to assess the performance of the Company’s business, because management does not consider these non-corecertain items to be relevant to ongoing financial performance on a per share basis. Management and the Board of Directors utilize “core“adjusted diluted earnings per share” (non-GAAP) for the following purposes:
 
•   Calculation of annual performance-based incentives for certain executives
•   Calculation of long-term performance-based incentives for certain executives
•   Investor presentations of Company performance
 

We have $1.2$1.45 billion and $937.0 million$1.25 billion total goodwill and other intangible assets for the periods ended December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively. Because our acquisition strategy has resulted in a high level of intangible assets, management believes a useful calculation is return oncalculations include tangible book value per common share (non-GAAP) and tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP).

We believe that presenting these non-GAAP financial measures will permit investors and analysts to assess the performance of the Company on the same basis as that is applied by management and the Board of Directors.

Non-GAAP financial measures have inherent limitations, are not required to be uniformly applied and are not audited. To mitigate these limitations, we have procedures in place to identify and approve each item that qualifies as non-coreadjusted to ensure that the Company’s “core”“adjusted” results are properly reflected for period-to-period comparisons. Although these non-GAAP financial measures are frequently used by stakeholders in the evaluation of a company, they have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analyses of results as reported under GAAP. In particular, a measure of earnings that excludes non-corecertain items does not represent the amount that effectively accrues directly to stockholders (i.e., non-corecertain items are included in earnings and stockholders’ equity). Additionally, similarly titled non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies may not be computed in the same or similar fashion.
 
AllDuring 2022, adjusted items primarily consisted of $33.8 million of Day 2 provision expense required for loans and unfunded commitments related to the Spirit acquisition, merger-related costs of $22.5 million, primarily related to the Spirit acquisitions, and net branch right sizing costs of $3.6 million, mainly due to branch closures across our footprint during the year. Additionally, we had a gain on insurance settlement of $4.1 million related to a weather event that caused severe damage to one of our branch locations. The net after-tax impact of all adjusted items was $42.2 million, or $0.34 per share data has been restated to reflect the retroactive effect of the two-for-one stock split which occurred during February 2018.diluted earnings per share.
 


During 2019, non-core2021, adjusted items consisted of $36.4$22.7 million of Day 2 provision expense required for loans related to the Landmark and Triumph acquisitions, $15.9 million of merger-related costs, related to the Landmark and Triumph acquisitions and net branch right sizing gains of $0.9 million, primarily due to branch closures across our footprint during the year. Additionally, we had total gains on sale of branches of $5.3 million due to the Illinois Branch Sale. The net after-tax impact of these items was $23.9 million, or $0.22 per diluted earnings per share.

During 2020, adjusted items consisted of $4.5 million of merger-related costs related to the Landrum and Reliance acquisitions, and $3.5$2.9 million in early retirement program expenses. In addition, weWe also had non-coreadjusted net branch right sizing costs of $3.1$13.7 million, primarily relateddue to branch closures across our footprint during the year. Additionally, we had total gains on sale of branches of $8.4 million mostly due to the relocation ofgains on sale from the Little Rock corporate offices.Texas Branch Sale and Colorado Branch Sale. The net after-tax impact of these items was $31.7$9.4 million, or $0.32$0.09 per diluted earnings per share.

During 2018, non-core

60


See Table 19 below for the reconciliation of adjusted earnings, which exclude certain items included $6.1 million of merger-related and branch right sizing costs. The net after-tax impact of these items was $4.5 million, or $0.05 per diluted earnings per share.

During 2017, non-core items included $22.1 million of merger-related and branch right sizing costs, a one-time non-cash charge of $11.5 million fromfor the revaluation of the deferred tax assets and liabilities as a result of the tax reform signed into law, as previously discussed, a $5.0 million donation to the Simmons First Foundation and a $3.7 million gain on the sale of our property and casualty insurance business lines. The net after-tax impact of these items was $26.1 million, or $0.37 per diluted earnings per share.

During 2016, we recorded after-tax merger-related costs of $2.9 million, primarily related to the Citizens acquisition, resulting in a nonrecurring charge of $0.05 to diluted earnings per share and $2.0 million in after-tax branch-right sizing costs in relation to the closure of ten underperforming branches, resulting in a nonrecurring charge of $0.04 to diluted earnings per share. Also during 2016, we recognized $361,000 in net after-tax gains from the early retirement of trust preferred securities.

During 2015, we recorded after-tax merger-related costs of $8.4 million, primarily related to the Community First, Liberty and Ozark Trust acquisitions, resulting in a nonrecurring charge of $0.15 to diluted earnings per share. During the second quarter of 2015, we incurred $1.9 million in after-tax branch right sizing costs in relation to the closure of twelve underperforming branches, resulting in a nonrecurring charge of $0.04 to diluted earnings per share. Also during 2015, we recognized $1.3 million in net after-tax gains from the sale of our Salina banking operations contributing $0.02 to diluted earnings per share.periods presented.
 
During the third quarterTable 19:Reconciliation of 2015, we terminated the loss-share agreements with the FDIC and incurred $4.5 million afterAdjusted Earnings (non-GAAP)
(In thousands, except per share data)202220212020
Net income available to common stockholders$256,412 $271,109 $254,852 
Certain items:
Gain on sale of branches— (5,316)(8,368)
Loss from early retirement of TruPS365 — — 
Gain on sale of intellectual property(750)— — 
Gain on insurance settlement(4,074)— — 
Donation to Simmons First Foundation1,738 — — 
Merger related costs22,476 15,911 4,531 
Early retirement program— — 2,901 
Branch right sizing, net3,628 (906)13,727 
Day 2 CECL Provision33,779 22,688 — 
Tax effect (1)
(14,939)(8,462)(3,343)
Certain items, net of tax42,223 23,915 9,448 
Adjusted earnings (non-GAAP)$298,635 $295,024 $264,300 
Diluted earnings per share$2.06 $2.46 $2.31 
Certain items:
Gain on sale of branches— (0.05)(0.07)
Loss from early retirement of TruPS— — — 
Gain on sale of intellectual property(0.01)— — 
Gain on insurance settlement(0.03)— — 
Donation to Simmons First Foundation0.01 — — 
Merger related costs0.18 0.15 0.04 
Early retirement program— — 0.03 
Branch right sizing, net0.03 (0.01)0.12 
Day 2 CECL Provision0.28 0.21 — 
Tax effect (1)
(0.12)(0.08)(0.03)
Certain items, net of tax0.34 0.22 0.09 
Adjusted diluted earnings per share (non-GAAP)$2.40 $2.68 $2.40 
_________________________
(1)    Effective tax one-time charge expense which resulted in a decreaserate of $0.08 to diluted earnings per share. We incurred after-tax costs of $1.3 million26.135%.



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See Table 20 below for the accelerated vestingreconciliation of retirement agreements duringadjusted noninterest income and adjusted noninterest expense for the year, resulting in a nonrecurring charge of $0.03 to diluted earnings per share.periods presented.
 

Table 20:Reconciliation of Adjusted Noninterest Income and Adjusted Noninterest Expense (non-GAAP)

(In thousands)202220212020
Noninterest income$170,066 $191,815 $239,769 
Certain items:
Gain on sale of branches— (5,316)(8,368)
Gain on insurance settlement(4,074)— — 
Loss from early retirement of TruPS365 — — 
Gain on sale of intellectual property(750)— — 
Branch right sizing153 (369)(370)
Total certain items(4,306)(5,685)(8,738)
Adjusted noninterest income (non-GAAP)$165,760 $186,130 $231,031 
Noninterest expense$566,748 $483,589 $484,736 
Certain items:
Merger related costs(22,476)(15,911)(4,531)
Donation to Simmons First Foundation(1,738)— — 
Early retirement program— — (2,901)
Branch right sizing(3,475)537 (14,097)
Total certain items(27,689)(15,374)(21,529)
Adjusted noninterest expense (non-GAAP)$539,059 $468,215 $463,207 

See Table 21 below for the reconciliation of core earnings, which exclude non-core items for the periods presented.tangible book value per common share.
 
Table 21: Reconciliation of Core Earnings (non-GAAP)
(In thousands, except per share data) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Twelve months ended          
           
Net Income Available to Common Stockholders $237,828
 $215,713
 $92,940
 $96,790
 $74,107
Non-core items:          
Accelerated vesting on retirement agreements 
 
 
 
 2,209
Gain on sale of banking operations 
 
 
 
 (2,110)
Gain from early retirement of trust preferred securities 
 
 
 (594) 
Gain on sale of insurance lines of business 
 
 (3,708) 
 
Loss on FDIC loss-share termination 
 
 
 
 7,476
Donation to Simmons First Foundation 
 
 5,000
 
 
Merger related costs 36,379
 4,777
 21,923
 4,835
 13,760
Early retirement program 3,464
 
 
 
 
Branch right sizing 3,129
 1,341
 169
 3,359
 3,144
Tax effect (1)
 (11,234) (1,598) (8,746) (2,981) (8,964)
Net non-core items (before SAB 118 adjustment) 31,738
 4,520
 14,638
 4,619
 15,515
SAB 118 adjustment (2)
 
 
 11,471
 
 
Core earnings (non-GAAP) $269,566
 $220,233
 $119,049
 $101,409
 $89,622
           
Diluted earnings per share $2.41
 $2.32
 $1.33
 $1.56
 $1.31
Non-core items:          
Accelerated vesting on retirement agreements 
 
 
 
 0.04
Gain on sale of banking operations 
 
 
 
 (0.04)
Gain from early retirement of trust preferred securities 
 
 
 (0.01) 
Gain on sale of insurance lines of business 
 
 (0.04) 
 
Loss on FDIC loss-share termination 
 
 
 
 0.14
Donation to Simmons First Foundation 
 
 0.07
 
 
Merger related costs 0.37
 0.05
 0.31
 0.08
 0.25
Early retirement program 0.03
 
 
 
 
Branch right sizing 0.03
 0.02
 
 0.06
 0.06
Tax effect (1)
 (0.11) (0.02) (0.13) (0.05) (0.17)
Net non-core items (before SAB 118 adjustment) 0.32
 0.05
 0.21
 0.08
 0.28
SAB 118 adjustment (2)
 
 
 0.16
 
 
Core diluted earnings per share (non-GAAP) $2.73
 $2.37
 $1.70
 $1.64
 $1.59
_________________________
(1)    Effective tax rate of 26.135% for periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018 and 39.225% for periods prior to 2018 adjusted for non-deductible merger-related costs and deferred tax items on the sale of the insurance lines of business.
(2)    Tax adjustment to revalue deferred tax assets and liabilities to account for the future impact of lower corporate tax rates resulting from the 2017 Act, signed into law on December 22, 2017.



See Table 22 below for the reconciliation of tangible book value per share.
Table 22:Reconciliation of Tangible Book Value per Common Share (non-GAAP)
(In thousands, except per share data)2019 2018 2017 2016 2015(In thousands, except per share data)202220212020
Total common stockholders’ equity$2,988,157
 $2,246,434
 $2,084,564
 $1,151,111
 $1,046,003
Total equityTotal equity$3,269,362 $3,248,841 $2,976,656 
Preferred stockPreferred stock— — (767)
Total common equityTotal common equity3,269,362 3,248,841 2,975,889 
Intangible assets:         Intangible assets:
Goodwill(1,055,520) (845,687) (842,651) (348,505) (327,686)Goodwill(1,319,598)(1,146,007)(1,075,305)
Other intangible assets(127,340) (91,334) (106,071) (52,959) (53,237)Other intangible assets(128,951)(106,235)(111,110)
Total intangibles(1,182,860) (937,021) (948,722) (401,464) (380,923)Total intangibles(1,448,549)(1,252,242)(1,186,415)
Tangible common stockholders’ equity$1,805,297
 $1,309,413
 $1,135,842
 $749,647
 $665,080
Tangible common equityTangible common equity$1,820,813 $1,996,599 $1,789,474 
Shares of common stock outstanding113,628,601
 92,347,643
 92,029,118
 62,555,446
 60,556,864
Shares of common stock outstanding127,046,654 112,715,444 108,077,662 
         
Book value per common share$26.30
 $24.33
 $22.65
 $18.40
 $17.27
Book value per common share$25.73 $28.82 $27.53 
         
Tangible book value per common share (non-GAAP)$15.89
 $14.18
 $12.34
 $11.98
 $10.98
Tangible book value per common share (non-GAAP)$14.33 $17.71 $16.56 
 


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See Table 2322 below for the calculation of tangible common equity and the reconciliation of tangible common equity to tangible assets.
 
Table 23:22: Reconciliation of Tangible Common Equity and the Ratio of Tangible Common Equity to Tangible Assets (non-GAAP) 
(Dollars in thousands) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Total common stockholders’ equity $2,988,157
 $2,246,434
 $2,084,564
 $1,151,111
 $1,046,003
Intangible assets:          
Goodwill (1,055,520) (845,687) (842,651) (348,505) (327,686)
Other intangible assets (127,340) (91,334) (106,071) (52,959) (53,237)
Total intangibles (1,182,860) (937,021) (948,722) (401,464) (380,923)
Tangible common stockholders’ equity $1,805,297
 $1,309,413
 $1,135,842
 $749,647
 $665,080
           
Total assets $21,259,143
 $16,543,337
 $15,055,806
 $8,400,056
 $7,559,658
Intangible assets:          
Goodwill (1,055,520) (845,687) (842,651) (348,505) (327,686)
Other intangible assets (127,340) (91,334) (106,071) (52,959) (53,237)
Total intangibles (1,182,860) (937,021) (948,722) (401,464) (380,923)
Tangible assets $20,076,283
 $15,606,316
 $14,107,084
 $7,998,592
 $7,178,735
           
Ratio of common equity to assets 14.06% 13.58% 13.85% 13.70% 13.84%
Ratio of tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP) 8.99% 8.39% 8.05% 9.37% 9.26%



See Table 24 below for the calculation of core return on average assets.

(Dollars in thousands)202220212020
Total common equity$3,269,362 $3,248,841 $2,975,889 
Intangible assets:
Goodwill(1,319,598)(1,146,007)(1,075,305)
Other intangible assets(128,951)(106,235)(111,110)
Total intangibles(1,448,549)(1,252,242)(1,186,415)
Tangible common equity$1,820,813 $1,996,599 $1,789,474 
Total assets$27,461,061 $24,724,759 $22,359,752 
Intangible assets:
Goodwill(1,319,598)(1,146,007)(1,075,305)
Other intangible assets(128,951)(106,235)(111,110)
Total intangibles(1,448,549)(1,252,242)(1,186,415)
Tangible assets$26,012,512 $23,472,517 $21,173,337 
Ratio of common equity to assets11.91 %13.14 %13.31 %
Ratio of tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP)7.00 %8.51 %8.45 %
Table 24:Calculation of Core Return on Average Assets (non-GAAP)


(Dollars in thousands)2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Twelve months ended         
          
Net income available to common stockholders$237,828
 $215,713
 $92,940
 $96,790
 $74,107
Net non-core items, net of taxes, adjustment31,738
 4,520
 26,109
 4,619
 15,515
Core earnings$269,566
 $220,233
 $119,049
 $101,409
 $89,622
          
Average total assets$17,871,748
 $15,771,362
 $10,074,951
 $7,760,233
 $7,164,788
          
Return on average assets1.33% 1.37% 0.92% 1.25% 1.03%
Core return on average assets (non-GAAP)1.51% 1.40% 1.18% 1.31% 1.25%

See Table 25 below for the calculation of return on tangible common equity.
Table 25:Calculation of Return on Tangible Common Equity (non-GAAP)
(Dollars in thousands)2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Twelve months ended         
          
Net income available to common stockholders$237,828
 $215,713
 $92,940
 $96,790
 $74,107
Amortization of intangibles, net of taxes8,720
 8,132
 4,659
 3,611
 2,972
Total income available to common stockholders$246,548
 $223,845
 $97,599
 $100,401
 $77,079
          
Net non-core items, net of taxes31,738
 4,520
 26,109
 4,619
 15,515
Core earnings269,566
 220,233
 119,049
 101,409
 89,622
Amortization of intangibles, net of taxes8,720
 8,132
 4,659
 3,611
 2,972
Total core income available to common stockholders$278,286
 $228,365
 $123,708
 $105,020
 $92,594
          
Average common stockholders’ equity$2,396,024
 $2,157,097
 $1,390,815
 $1,105,775
 $938,521
Average intangible assets:         
Goodwill(921,635) (845,308) (455,453) (332,974) (281,133)
Other intangible assets(104,000) (97,820) (68,896) (51,710) (42,104)
Total average intangibles(1,025,635) (943,128) (524,349) (384,684) (323,237)
Average tangible common stockholders’ equity$1,370,389
 $1,213,969
 $866,466
 $721,091
 $615,284
          
Return on average common equity9.93% 10.00% 6.68% 8.75% 7.90%
Return on average tangible common equity (non-GAAP)17.99% 18.44% 11.26% 13.92% 12.53%
Core return on average common equity (non-GAAP)11.25% 10.21% 8.56% 9.17% 9.55%
Core return on tangible common equity (non-GAAP)20.31% 18.81% 14.28% 14.56% 15.05%


See Table 26 below for the calculation of core net interest margin for the periods presented.
Table 26: Reconciliation of Core Net Interest Margin (non-GAAP)
(Dollars in thousands) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Twelve months ended  
  
  
  
  
           
Net interest income $605,275
 $552,552
 $354,930
 $279,206
 $278,595
FTE adjustment 7,322
 5,297
 7,723
 7,722
 8,517
Fully tax equivalent net interest income 612,597
 557,849
 362,653
 286,928
 287,112
Total accretable yield (41,244) (35,263) (27,793) (24,257) (46,131)
Core net interest income $571,353
 $522,586
 $334,860
 $262,671
 $240,981
           
Average earning assets $15,977,909
 $14,036,614
 $8,908,418
 $6,855,322
 $6,305,966
           
Net interest margin 3.83% 3.97% 4.07% 4.19% 4.55%
Core net interest margin (non-GAAP) 3.58% 3.72% 3.76% 3.83% 3.82%

See Table 27 below for the calculation of the efficiency ratio for the periods presented.
Table 27:Calculation of Efficiency Ratio
(Dollars in thousands) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Twelve months ended  
  
  
  
  
           
Non-interest expense $461,112
 $392,229
 $312,379
 $255,085
 $256,970
Non-core non-interest expense adjustment (42,972) (6,118) (27,357) (8,435) (18,747)
Other real estate and foreclosure expense adjustment (3,282) (4,240) (3,042) (4,389) (4,861)
Amortization of intangibles adjustment (11,805) (11,009) (7,666) (5,942) (4,889)
Efficiency ratio numerator $403,053
 $370,862
 $274,314
 $236,319
 $228,473
           
Net-interest income $605,275
 $552,552
 $354,930
 $279,206
 $278,595
Non-interest income 201,509
 143,896
 138,765
 139,382
 94,661
Non-core non-interest income adjustment 
 
 (3,972) (835) 5,731
Fully tax-equivalent adjustment 7,322
 5,297
 7,723
 7,722
 8,517
Gain on sale of securities (13,314) (61) (1,059) (5,848) (307)
Efficiency ratio denominator $800,792
 $701,684
 $496,387
 $419,627
 $387,197
           
Efficiency ratio (non-GAAP) 50.33% 52.85% 55.27% 56.32% 59.01%


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Quarterly Results

Selected unaudited quarterly financial information for the last eight quarters is shown in Table 28.
Table 28:Quarterly Results
  Quarter
(In thousands, except per share data) First Second Third Fourth Total
2019  
  
  
  
  
Interest income $179,116
 $196,169
 $197,306
 $214,054
 $786,645
Interest expense 42,090
 45,813
 47,142
 46,325
 181,370
Net interest income 137,026
 150,356
 150,164
 167,729
 605,275
Provision for loan losses 9,285
 7,079
 21,973
 4,903
 43,240
Gain on sale of securities 2,740
 2,823
 7,374
 377
 13,314
Non-interest income, net of gain on sale of securities 31,021
 36,183
 76,401
 44,590
 188,195
Non-interest expense 101,409
 110,743
 106,865
 142,095
 461,112
Net income available to common stockholders 47,695
 55,598
 81,826
 52,709
 237,828
Basic earnings per share (1)
 0.52
 0.58
 0.85
 0.49
 2.42
Diluted earnings per share (1)
 0.51
 0.58
 0.84
 0.49
 2.41
           
2018          
Interest income $157,139
 $166,268
 $178,984
 $178,296
 $680,687
Interest expense 22,173
 29,431
 36,016
 40,515
 128,135
Net interest income 134,966
 136,837
 142,968
 137,781
 552,552
Provision for loan losses 9,150
 9,033
 10,345
 9,620
 38,148
Gain (loss) on sale of securities 6
 (7) 54
 8
 61
Non-interest income, net of gain (loss) on sale of securities 37,529
 38,055
 33,671
 34,580
 143,835
Non-interest expense 98,073
 98,507
 100,253
 95,396
 392,229
Net income available to common stockholders 51,312
 53,562
 55,193
 55,646
 215,713
Basic earnings per share (1)
 0.56
 0.58
 0.60
 0.60
 2.34
Diluted earnings per share (1)
 0.55
 0.58
 0.59
 0.60
 2.32
_________________________
(1)    EPS are computed independently for each quarter and therefore the sum of each quarterly EPS may not equal the year-to-date EPS. As a result of the large stock issuances as part of the Company’s acquisitions, the computed independent quarterly average common shares outstanding and the computed year-to-date average common shares may differ significantly. The difference is based on the direct result of the varying denominator for each period presented.

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ITEM 7A.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
ITEM 7A.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Liquidity and Market Risk Management
 
Parent Company
 
The Company has leveraged its investment in its subsidiary bank and depends upon the dividends paid to it, as the sole shareholder of the subsidiary bank, as a principal source of funds for dividends to shareholders, stock repurchases and debt service requirements. At December 31, 2019,2022, undivided profits of Simmons Bank were approximately $702.1$648.1 million, of which approximately $160.2$114.0 million was available for the payment of dividends to the Company without regulatory approval. In addition to dividends, other sources of liquidity for the Company are the sale of equity securities and the borrowing of funds.
 
Subsidiary Bank
 
Generally speaking, the Company’s subsidiary bank relies upon net inflows of cash from financing activities, supplemented by net inflows of cash from operating activities, to provide cash used in investing activities. Typical of most banking companies, significant financing activities include: deposit gathering; use of short-term borrowing facilities, such as federal funds purchased and repurchase agreements; and the issuance of long-term debt. The subsidiary bank’s primary investing activities include loan originations and purchases of investment securities, offset by loan payoffs and investment cash flows and maturities.
 
Liquidity represents an institution’s ability to provide funds to satisfy demands from depositors and borrowers by either converting assets into cash or accessing new or existing sources of incremental funds. A major responsibility of management is to maximize net interest income within prudent liquidity constraints. Internal corporate guidelines have been established to constantly measure liquid assets as well as relevant ratios concerning earning asset levels and purchased funds. The management and Board of Directors of the subsidiary bank monitor these same indicators and makes adjustments as needed. At December 31, 2019, the subsidiary bank and total corporate liquidity remain strong.
 
Liquidity Management
 
The objective of our liquidity management is to access adequate sources of funding to ensure that cash flow requirements of depositors and borrowers are met in an orderly and timely manner. Sources of liquidity are managed so that reliance on any one funding source is kept to a minimum. Our liquidity sources are prioritized for both availability and time to activation.
 
Our liquidity is a primary consideration in determining funding needs and is an integral part of asset/liability management. Pricing of the liability side is a major component of interest margin and spread management. Adequate liquidity is a necessity in addressing this critical task. There are seven primary and secondary sources of liquidity available to the Company. The particular liquidity need and timeframe determine the use of these sources.
 
The first source of liquidity available to the Company is federal funds. Federal funds are available on a daily basis and are used to meet the normal fluctuations of a dynamic balance sheet. SimmonsThe Bank has approximately $415.0520.0 million in Ffederal funds lines of credit from upstream correspondent banks that can be accessed, when needed. In order to ensure availability of these upstream funds we test these borrowing lines at least annually. Historical monitoring of these funds has made it possible for us to project seasonal fluctuations and structure our funding requirements on a month-to-month basis.
 
Second, Simmons Bank has lines of credit available with the Federal Home Loan Bank. While we use portions of those lines to match off longer-term mortgage loans, we also use those lines to meet liquidity needs. Approximately $3.2$5.4 billion of these lines of credit are currently available, if needed, for liquidity.
 
A third source of liquidity is that we have the ability to access large wholesale deposits from both the public and private sector to fund short-term liquidity needs.
 
A fourth source of liquidity is the retail deposits available through our network of financial centers throughout Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas. Although this method can be a somewhat more expensive alternative to supplying liquidity, this source can be used to meet intermediate term liquidity needs.

Fifth, we use a laddered investment portfolio that ensures there is a steady source of intermediate term liquidity. These funds can be used to meet seasonal loan patterns and other intermediate term balance sheet fluctuations. Approximately 98.8%50.6% of the investment portfolio is classified as available-for-sale. We also use securities held in the securities portfolio to pledge when obtaining public funds.


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Sixth, we have a network of downstream correspondent banks from which we can access debt to meet liquidity needs.
 
Finally, we have the ability to access funds through the Federal Reserve Bank Discount Window.
 
We believe the various sources available are ample liquidity for short-term, intermediate-term and long-term liquidity.
 
Market Risk Management
 
Market risk arises from changes in interest rates. We have risk management policies to monitor and limit exposure to market risk. In asset and liability management activities, policies designed to minimize structural interest rate risk are in place. The measurement of market risk associated with financial instruments is meaningful only when all related and offsetting on- and off-balance-sheet transactions are aggregated, and the resulting net positions are identified.
 
Interest Rate Sensitivity
 
Interest rate risk represents the potential impact of interest rate changes on net income and capital resulting from mismatches in repricing opportunities of assets and liabilities over a period of time. A number of tools are used to monitor and manage interest rate risk, including simulation models and interest sensitivity gap analysis. Management uses simulation models to estimate the effects of changing interest rates and various balance sheet strategies on the level of the Company’s net income and capital. As a means of limiting interest rate risk to an acceptable level, management may alter the mix of floating and fixed-rate assets and liabilities, change pricing schedules, and manage investment maturities during future security purchases.purchases, or enter into derivative contracts such as interest rate swaps.
 
The simulation model incorporates management’s assumptions regarding the level of interest rates or balance changes for indeterminate maturity deposits for a given level of market rate changes. These assumptions have been developed through anticipated pricing behavior. Key assumptions in the simulation models include the relative timing of prepayments, cash flows and maturities. These assumptions are inherently uncertain and, as a result, the model cannot precisely estimate net interest income or precisely predict the impact of a change in interest rates on net income or capital. Actual results will differ from simulated results due to the timing, magnitude and frequency of interest rate changes and changes in market conditions and management strategies, among other factors.
 
As of December 31, 2019,2022, the model simulations projected that 100 and 200 basis point increases in interest rates would result in a positive variance in net interest income of 2.37%1.59% and 4.95%3.14%, respectively, relative to the base case over the next 12 months, while decreases in interest rates of 100 basis points and 200 basis points would result in a negative variance in net interest income of (1.60)% and (3.82)%, respectively,1.13% relative to the base case over the next 12 months. These are good faith estimates and assume that the composition of our interest sensitive assets and liabilities existing at each year-end will remain constant over the relevant twelve month measurement period and that changes in market interest rates are instantaneous and sustained across the yield curve regardless of duration of pricing characteristics of specific assets or liabilities. Also, this analysis does not contemplate any actions that we might undertake in response to changes in market interest rates. We believe these estimates are not necessarily indicative of what actually could occur in the event of immediate interest rate increases or decreases of this magnitude. As interest-bearing assets and liabilities reprice in different time frames and proportions to market interest rate movements, various assumptions must be made based on historical relationships of these variables in reaching any conclusion. Since these correlations are based on competitive and market conditions, we anticipate that our future results will likely be different from the foregoing estimates, and such differences could be material.
 
The table below presents our sensitivity to net interest income at December 31, 2019.  2022.
 
Table 29:23: Net Interest Income Sensitivity
 
Interest Rate Scenario% Change from Base
Up 300 basis points4.46 %
Up 200 basis points4.95%3.14 %
Up 100 basis points2.37%1.59 %
Down 100 basis points(1.60)(1.13)%
Down 200 basis points(3.82)(3.50)%
Down 300 basis points(5.39)%

65
66



ITEM 8. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
 
INDEX
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID 686)
 


66
Note:
Supplementary Data may be found in Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Quarterly Results” on page 64 hereof.


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Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
 
The management of Simmons First National Corporation (the “Company”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation and fair presentation of the Company’s financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
 
Because of inherent limitations, internal controls over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Accordingly, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.
 
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019.2022. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013 edition) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). As permitted by Securities and Exchange Commission guidance, management excluded from its assessment the operations of The Landrum Company acquisition made during 2019, which is described in Note 2 of the Consolidated Financial Statements. The total assets acquired in The Landrum Company acquisition represented approximately 16% of the Company’s total consolidated assets as of December 31, 2019. Based on this assessment, management has determined that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 20192022 is effective based on the specified criteria.
 
FORVIS, LLP (formerly BKD, LLP,LLP), the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the consolidated financial statements of the Company included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, has issued an attestationaudit report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019.2022. The report, which expresses an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019,2022, immediately follows.


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67




REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Audit Committee,To the Stockholders, Board of Directors and StockholdersAudit Committee
Simmons First National Corporation
Pine Bluff, Arkansas
 
Opinion on the Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
We have audited Simmons First National Corporation’s (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019,2022, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013 edition)Framework: (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
 
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019,2022, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013 edition)Framework: (2013) issued by COSO.

As permitted, the Company excluded the operations of The Landrum Company (Landrum) of Columbia, Missouri, a financial institution acquired on October 31, 2019, which constituted approximately 16% and 3% of total assets and total revenues, respectively, from the scope of management’s report on internal control over financial reporting. As such, Landrum has also been excluded from the scope of our audit of internal control over financial reporting.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB)(“PCAOB”), the consolidated financial statements of the Company as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, and for each of the three years ended in the period ended December 31, 2022, and our report dated February 27, 2020,2023, expressed an unqualified opinion.opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
 
Basis for Opinion
 
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying management’s report.Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
 
We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
 
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
 
Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
Definitions and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
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 reliable 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.
 
FORVIS, LLP
(Formerly, BKD, LLPLLP)
/s/ BKD,FORVIS, LLP

Little Rock, Arkansas
February 27, 20202023


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69




REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
Audit Committee,To the Stockholders, Board of Directors and StockholdersAudit Committee
Simmons First National Corporation
Pine Bluff, Arkansas
 
Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements
 
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Simmons First National Corporation (the Company)“Company”) as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2019,2022, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the financial statements)“financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2019,2022, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
 
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB)(“PCAOB”), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019,2022, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013 edition)(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) and our report dated February 27, 2020,2023, expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.thereon.

Basis for Opinion
 
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits.
We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current-period audit of the consolidated financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Allowance for LoanCredit Losses

The Company’s loan portfolio totaled $16.14 billion as of December 31, 2022 and Lease Losses

the allowance for credit losses on loans was $197.0 million. The Company’s unfunded loan commitments totaled $5.6 billion, with an allowance for credit losses of $41.9 million. The Company’s available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities portfolios totaled $7.61 billion as of December 31, 2022, and the allowance for credit losses on securities was $1.4 million. Together these amounts represent the allowance for credit losses (“ACL”). As more fully described in NoteNotes 1, 3 and Note 5 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements,statements:
For loans receivable, the ACL is a contra-asset valuation account, calculated in accordance with Topic 326 that is deducted from the amortized cost basis of loans to present the net amount expected to be collected.
For unfunded loan commitments, the ACL is a liability account calculated in accordance with Topic 326, reported as a component of accrued interest and other liabilities.
For securities, the ACL is a contra-valuation account that is deducted from the recorded basis of the securities.

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The amount of each allowance account represents management’s best estimate of current expected credit losses on those financial instruments considering all available information from internal and external sources, relevant to assessing exposure to credit loss over the contractual term of the instrument. Loans with similar risk characteristics are aggregated into homogenous segments for loan losses represents losses thatassessment. Reserve factors are estimated to have occurred. The allowance for loan losses is based on collectabilityestimated probability of the loans in light of historical experience, the naturedefault (PD) and volume of the loan portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay, estimated value of any underlying collateral, and prevailing economic conditions. The allowance consists of allocated and general components. The allocated component relates to specific allowances on loans that are classified as impaired. The general component relates to loans that are not classified as impaired and is based on historical charge-off experience and the expected loss given default derived(LGD) for substantially all segments. The estimates include economic forecasts over the reasonable and supportable forecast period based on projected performance of economic variables that have a statistical relationship.

Management qualitatively adjusts its model results for risk factors that were not considered within the modeling processes but were still relevant in assessing the expected credit losses within the loan pools. In some cases, management determined that an individual loan exhibited unique characteristics which differentiated the loan from other loans with the identified loan pools. In such cases the loans were evaluated for expected credit losses on an individual basis and excluded from the Company's internal risk rating process. Other adjustments have been made to the allowance for pools of loans after an assessment of internal or external influences on credit quality that are not fully reflected in the historical loss or risk rating data. Management discloses that this evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires estimates that are susceptible to significant revision as more information becomes available.collective evaluation.



We identified the valuationAuditing management’s estimate of the allowance for loan losses as a critical audit matter. Auditing the allowance for loan losses involvesACL involved a high degree of subjectivity due to the nature of the qualitative factor adjustments included in evaluating management's estimates, such as evaluating management's assessmentthe ACL and complexities due to the implementation of economic conditionsthe probability of default and otherloss given default models. Management’s identification and measurement of the qualitative or environmental factors, evaluatingfactor adjustments is highly judgmental and had a significant effect on the adequacy of specific allowances associated with impaired loans or loans acquired that have experienced a deterioration in credit quality post-acquisition, and assessing the appropriateness of loan grades.ACL.

The primary procedures we performed as of December 31, 2022 to address this critical audit matter included:
Testing
Obtained an understanding of the Company’s process for establishing the ACL
Evaluated and tested the design and operating effectiveness of controls including those related to technology, over the allowance for loan losses, includingreliability and accuracy of the data used to calculate and estimate the various components of the ACL including:
Loan data completeness and accuracy classifications
Grouping of loans by loan segment historical loss data,
Model inputs utilized including PD, LGD, remaining life and prepayment speed
Approval of model assumptions selected
Establishment of qualitative factors
Loan risk ratings
Tested the mathematical accuracy of the calculation of loss rates, the establishmentACL
Performed reviews of qualitative adjustments, grading andindividual credit files to evaluate the reasonableness of loan credit risk classificationratings
Tested internally prepared loan reviews to evaluate the reasonableness of loans and establishment of specific reserves on impaired loans, and management’s review and disclosure controls over the allowance for loan losses;credit risk ratings
Testing ofTested the completeness and accuracy of the informationinputs utilized in the calculation of the allowance for loan lossesACL
Testing the allowance for loan losses model’s computational accuracy;
EvaluatingEvaluated the qualitative adjustments to historical loss rates,the ACL including assessing the basis for the adjustments and the reasonableness of the significant assumptions;assumptions
Testing the internal loan review functions and evaluating the accuracy of loan grades, including utilizing our internal loan review professionals to assist us;
AssessingTested the reasonableness of specific allowancesreserves on certain impaired loans;individually reviewed loans
EvaluatingEvaluated credit quality trends in delinquencies, non-accruals, charge-offs and loan risk ratings
Evaluated the overall reasonableness of significant assumptions used by management, considering the past performance of the CompanyACL and evaluatingcompared to trends identified within peer groups;groups
EvaluatingTested estimated utilization rate of unfunded loan commitments
Reviewed documentation prepared to assess the methodology utilized by a third party performing the ACL calculation for securities for reasonableness
Evaluated the accuracy and completeness of Accounting Standards Update 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326)disclosures in the consolidated financial statements.

Mergers and AcquisitionsAcquisition Accounting

As described in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company consummated the acquisitionscompleted its merger with Spirit of two bank holding companies during the year ended December 31, 2019, resultingTexas Bancshares, Inc., on April 8, 2022. The Company issued 18,275,074 shares of its common stock valued at approximately $464.9 million, plus $1.4 million in the expansion of the Company’s operating footprint and additional goodwill of approximately $209.8 million being recognized on the Company’s consolidated statement balance sheet.cash. As part of the acquisitions consummated during the year,acquisition, management assessed that the acquisitionsacquisition qualified as a business combinationscombination and all identifiable assets and liabilities acquired were valued at fair value, as partresulting in additional goodwill of approximately $172.9 million being recognized on the purchase price allocation as of the respective acquisition date.Company’s consolidated balance sheet. The identification and valuation of such acquired assets and assumed liabilities requires management to exercise significant judgment and consider the use ofjudgment. Management utilized outside vendors to estimateassist with estimating the fair value allocations.value.

We identified the consummated acquisitionsacquisition and the valuation of acquired assets and assumed liabilities as a critical audit matter. Auditing the acquired assets and assumed liabilities and other acquisition-related considerations involved a high degree of subjectivity in evaluating management’s fair value estimates and purchase price allocations, including the use of our internal valuation specialists.



70


The primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included:

AssessingObtained and read the executed Agreement and Plan of Merger documents to gain an understanding of the underlying terms of the consummated acquisition.
Testing the design and operating effectiveness of controls including:
Proper approval of the acquisition
Accuracy of the valuations of significant assets acquired and liabilities assumed
Completeness and accuracy of the purchase price allocation, including tax impact
Completeness and accuracy of day 1 journal entries and general ledger mapping
Assessed management’s application of accounting guidance related to the business combinationscombination and management’s determination of whether the transactions weretransaction was an acquisition of a business as defined within the ASC 805, framework;Business Combinations, framework.
AssessingAssessed the completeness and accuracy of management’s purchase accounting model, including the balance sheet acquired and related fair value purchase price allocations made to identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed;assumed.
ObtainingObtained and reviewing allevaluated significant outside vendor valuation estimates, and challenging management’s review of the appropriateness of the valuations including but not limited to, testing critical inputs, assumptions applied, and valuation models utilized by the outside vendors;vendors.
AssessingTested the completeness and accuracy of management’s calculation of total consideration paid.
Tested the accuracy of the goodwill calculation resulting from the acquisition, consummated, which was the difference between the total net consideration paid and the fair value of the net assets acquired;acquired.
UtilizingUtilized internal valuation specialists to assist with testing the related fair value valuations and purchase price allocations made to identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed;assumed.
ReviewingRead and evaluatingevaluated the adequacy of the disclosures made in the footnotes ofnotes to the Company’s SEC filings.

consolidated financial statements.
FORVIS, LLP
(Formerly, BKD, LLPLLP)
/s/ BKD,FORVIS, LLP

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1972.
 
Little Rock, Arkansas
February 27, 20202023



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Simmons First National Corporation
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 20192022 and 2018 2021
(In thousands, except share data)20222021
ASSETS  
Cash and noninterest bearing balances due from banks$200,616 $209,190 
Interest bearing balances due from banks and federal funds sold481,506 1,441,463 
Cash and cash equivalents682,122 1,650,653 
Interest bearing balances due from banks – time795 1,882 
Investment securities:
Held-to-maturity, net of allowance for credit losses of $1,388 and $1,279 at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively3,759,706 1,529,221 
Available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (amortized cost of $4,331,413 and $7,130,861 at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively)3,852,854 7,113,545 
Total investments7,612,560 8,642,766 
Mortgage loans held for sale3,486 36,356 
Other loans held for sale— 100 
Loans16,142,124 12,012,503 
Allowance for credit losses on loans(196,955)(205,332)
Net loans15,945,169 11,807,171 
Premises and equipment548,741 483,469 
Foreclosed assets and other real estate owned2,887 6,032 
Interest receivable102,892 72,990 
Bank owned life insurance491,340 445,305 
Goodwill1,319,598 1,146,007 
Other intangible assets128,951 106,235 
Other assets622,520 325,793 
Total assets$27,461,061 $24,724,759 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Deposits:
Noninterest bearing transaction accounts$6,016,651 $5,325,318 
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits11,762,885 11,588,770 
Time deposits4,768,558 2,452,460 
Total deposits22,548,094 19,366,548 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase160,403 185,403 
Other borrowings859,296 1,337,973 
Subordinated notes and debentures365,989 384,131 
Accrued interest and other liabilities257,917 201,863 
Total liabilities24,191,699 21,475,918 
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock, Class A, $0.01 par value; 350,000,000 and 175,000,000 shares authorized at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively; 127,046,654 and 112,715,444 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively1,270 1,127 
Surplus2,530,066 2,164,989 
Undivided profits1,255,586 1,093,270 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(517,560)(10,545)
Total stockholders’ equity3,269,362 3,248,841 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$27,461,061 $24,724,759 
(In thousands, except share data) 2019 2018
     
ASSETS  
  
Cash and non-interest bearing balances due from banks $277,208
 $171,792
Interest bearing balances due from banks and federal funds sold 719,415
 661,666
Cash and cash equivalents 996,623
 833,458
Interest bearing balances due from banks – time 4,554
 4,934
Investment securities:    
Held-to-maturity 40,927
 289,194
Available-for-sale 3,453,338
 2,151,752
Total investments 3,494,265
 2,440,946
Mortgage loans held for sale 58,102
 26,799
Other assets held for sale 260,332
 1,790
Loans:    
Legacy loans 9,630,076
 8,430,388
Allowance for loan losses (67,800) (56,599)
Loans acquired, net of discount and allowance 4,795,184
 3,292,783
Net loans 14,357,460
 11,666,572
Premises and equipment 492,384
 295,060
Foreclosed assets and other real estate owned 19,121
 25,565
Interest receivable 62,707
 49,938
Bank owned life insurance 254,152
 193,170
Goodwill 1,055,520
 845,687
Other intangible assets 127,340
 91,334
Other assets 76,583
 68,084
Total assets $21,259,143
 $16,543,337
     
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY    
Deposits:    
Non-interest bearing transaction accounts $3,741,093
 $2,672,405
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits 9,090,878
 6,830,191
Time deposits 3,276,969
 2,896,156
Total deposits 16,108,940
 12,398,752
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase 150,145
 95,792
Other borrowings 1,297,599
 1,345,450
Subordinated notes and debentures 388,260
 353,950
Other liabilities held for sale 159,853
 162
Accrued interest and other liabilities 165,422
 102,797
Total liabilities 18,270,219
 14,296,903
     
Stockholders’ equity:    
Preferred stock, 40,040,000 shares authorized; Series D, $0.01 par value, $1,000 liquidation value per share; 767 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2019 767
 
Common stock, Class A, $0.01 par value; 175,000,000 shares authorized at December 31, 2019 and 2018; 113,628,601 and 92,347,643 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively 1,136
 923
Surplus 2,117,282
 1,597,944
Undivided profits 848,848
 674,941
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 20,891
 (27,374)
Total stockholders’ equity 2,988,924
 2,246,434
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $21,259,143
 $16,543,337




See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

72




Simmons First National Corporation
Consolidated Statements of Income
Years Ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017 2020
(In thousands, except per share data)202220212020
INTEREST INCOME   
Loans, including fees$694,192 $555,008 $687,771 
Interest bearing balances due from banks and federal funds sold5,500 2,795 4,383 
Investment securities158,203 111,693 64,533 
Mortgage loans held for sale720 1,565 3,031 
Other loans held for sale3,120 — — 
TOTAL INTEREST INCOME861,735 671,061 759,718 
INTEREST EXPENSE
Deposits99,049 41,172 79,860 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase941 579 1,715 
Other borrowings24,934 19,495 19,652 
Subordinated notes and debentures19,495 18,283 18,757 
TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE144,419 79,529 119,984 
NET INTEREST INCOME717,316 591,532 639,734 
Provision for credit losses14,074 (32,704)74,973 
NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR CREDIT LOSSES703,242 624,236 564,761 
NONINTEREST INCOME
Service charges on deposit accounts46,527 43,231 43,082 
Debit and credit card fees31,203 28,245 24,711 
Wealth management fees31,895 31,172 30,386 
Mortgage lending income10,522 21,798 34,469 
Bank owned life insurance income11,146 8,902 5,815 
Other service charges and fees7,616 7,696 6,624 
Gain (loss) on sale of securities, net(278)15,498 54,806 
Gain on insurance settlement4,074 — — 
Other income27,361 35,273 39,876 
TOTAL NONINTEREST INCOME170,066 191,815 239,769 
NONINTEREST EXPENSE
Salaries and employee benefits286,982 246,335 242,474 
Occupancy expense, net44,321 38,797 37,556 
Furniture and equipment expense20,665 19,890 24,038 
Other real estate and foreclosure expense1,003 2,121 1,752 
Deposit insurance11,608 6,973 9,184 
Merger related costs22,476 15,911 4,531 
Other operating expenses179,693 153,562 165,201 
TOTAL NONINTEREST EXPENSE566,748 483,589 484,736 
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES306,560 332,462 319,794 
Provision for income taxes50,148 61,306 64,890 
NET INCOME256,412 271,156 254,904 
Preferred stock dividends— 47 52 
NET INCOME AVAILABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS$256,412 $271,109 $254,852 
BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE$2.07 $2.47 $2.32 
DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE$2.06 $2.46 $2.31 



(In thousands, except per share data) 2019 2018 2017
       
INTEREST INCOME  
  
  
Loans $710,935
 $616,037
 $352,351
Interest bearing balances due from banks and federal funds sold 7,486
 5,996
 1,933
Investment securities 66,898
 57,318
 40,115
Mortgage loans held for sale 1,326
 1,336
 605
TOTAL INTEREST INCOME 786,645
 680,687
 395,004
       
INTEREST EXPENSE      
Deposits 139,011
 87,210
 27,756
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase 1,010
 423
 347
Other borrowings 23,008
 23,654
 8,621
Subordinated notes and debentures 18,341
 16,848
 3,350
TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE 181,370
 128,135
 40,074
       
NET INTEREST INCOME 605,275
 552,552
 354,930
Provision for loan losses 43,240
 38,148
 26,393
       
NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES 562,035
 514,404
 328,537
       
NON-INTEREST INCOME      
Trust income 25,040
 23,128
 18,570
Service charges on deposit accounts 44,782
 42,508
 36,079
Other service charges and fees 5,824
 7,469
 9,919
Mortgage lending income 15,017
 9,230
 9,708
SBA lending income 2,669
 1,813
 3,608
Investment banking income 2,313
 3,141
 2,793
Debit and credit card fees 29,289
 32,268
 34,258
Bank owned life insurance income 4,768
 4,415
 3,503
Gain on sale of securities, net 13,314
 61
 1,059
Other income 58,493
 19,863
 19,268
TOTAL NON-INTEREST INCOME 201,509
 143,896
 138,765
       
NON-INTEREST EXPENSE      
Salaries and employee benefits 227,795
 216,743
 154,314
Occupancy expense, net 32,008
 29,610
 21,159
Furniture and equipment expense 18,220
 16,323
 19,366
Other real estate and foreclosure expense 3,442
 4,480
 3,042
Deposit insurance 4,416
 8,721
 3,696
Merger related costs 36,379
 4,777
 21,923
Other operating expenses 138,852
 111,575
 88,879
TOTAL NON-INTEREST EXPENSE 461,112
 392,229
 312,379
       
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES 302,432
 266,071
 154,923
Provision for income taxes 64,265
 50,358
 61,983
       
NET INCOME 238,167
 215,713
 92,940
Preferred stock dividends 339
 
 
NET INCOME AVAILABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS $237,828
 $215,713
 $92,940
BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE (1)
 $2.42
 $2.34
 $1.34
DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE (1)
 $2.41
 $2.32
 $1.33

 (1)    Per share amounts for the year ended 2017 have been restated to reflect the effect of the 2-for-one stock split on February 8, 2018.


See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

73




Simmons First National Corporation
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Years Ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 20172020
 
(In thousands) 2019 2018 2017(In thousands)202220212020
      
NET INCOME $238,167
 $215,713
 $92,940
NET INCOME$256,412 $271,156 $254,904 
      
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)      OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period on available-for-sale securities 76,109
 (13,626) 2,645
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period on available-for-sale securities(593,010)(91,434)107,382 
Unrealized holding gain on the transfer of held-to-maturity securities to available-for-sale per ASU 2017-12 2,547
 
 
Less: Reclassification adjustment for realized gains included in net income 13,314
 61
 1,059
Less: Reclassification adjustment for realized gains (losses) included in net incomeLess: Reclassification adjustment for realized gains (losses) included in net income(278)15,498 54,806 
Less: Realized losses on available-for-sale securities interest rate hedgesLess: Realized losses on available-for-sale securities interest rate hedges(98,374)(10,588)— 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity during the periodNet unrealized gains (losses) on securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity during the period(206,682)1,106 — 
Less: Amortization of net unrealized gains (losses) on securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturityLess: Amortization of net unrealized gains (losses) on securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity(14,632)(104)— 
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax effect 65,342
 (13,687) 1,586
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax effect(686,408)(95,134)52,576 
      
Less: Tax effect of other comprehensive income (loss) 17,077
 (3,577) 622
Less: Tax effect of other comprehensive income (loss)(179,393)(24,863)13,741 
      
TOTAL OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) 48,265
 (10,110) 964
TOTAL OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)(507,015)(70,271)38,835 
      
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME $286,432
 $205,603
 $93,904
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)$(250,603)$200,885 $293,739 
 

































See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

74




Simmons First National Corporation
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 20172020
(In thousands)202220212020
OPERATING ACTIVITIES   
Net income$256,412 $271,156 $254,904 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization48,962 47,220 49,038 
Provision for credit losses14,074 (32,704)74,973 
Loss (gain) on sale of investments278 (15,498)(54,806)
Net accretion of investment securities and assets(39,031)(52,781)(56,771)
Net amortization on borrowings313 1,257 541 
Stock-based compensation expense15,317 15,868 13,197 
Gain on sale of premises and equipment, net of impairment— (591)(14)
Gain on sale of foreclosed assets and other real estate owned(390)(932)(391)
Gain on sale of mortgage loans held for sale(7,945)(36,434)(44,864)
Gain on sale of other intangibles— — (301)
Gain on sale of branches— (5,316)(8,094)
Gain on sale of loans(282)— — 
Fair value write-down of closed branches— — 434 
Deferred income taxes14,933 10,937 (122)
Income from bank owned life insurance(11,164)(9,477)(7,206)
Loss from early retirement of TruPS365 — — 
Originations of mortgage loans held for sale(497,815)(1,034,716)(1,206,818)
Proceeds from sale of mortgage loans held for sale538,630 1,190,891 1,172,406 
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Interest receivable(22,107)4,423 (10,846)
Other assets(7,214)(33,495)(7,480)
Accrued interest and other liabilities10,417 (50,620)50,508 
Income taxes payable8,445 8,592 (15,745)
Net cash provided by operating activities322,198 277,780 202,543 
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Net change in loans(1,900,325)2,333,893 1,327,248 
Proceeds from sale of loans73,746 28,033 49,736 
Decrease in due from banks - time1,087 292 2,975 
Purchases of premises and equipment, net(35,268)(47,861)(13,272)
Proceeds from sale of premises and equipment— 5,621 369 
Proceeds from sale of foreclosed assets and other real estate owned4,754 21,983 10,788 
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities— 342,577 1,717,364 
Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities1,137,923 1,001,669 2,346,930 
Purchases of available-for-sale securities(261,375)(5,266,148)(4,140,963)
Proceeds from maturities of held-to-maturity securities86,229 15,712 13,970 
Purchases of held-to-maturity securities(331,273)(708,580)(308,854)
Proceeds from bank owned life insurance death benefits1,873 3,814 2,018 
Purchases of bank owned life insurance— (160,000)— 
Cash received in business combinations, net276,396 25,425 — 
Disposition of assets and liabilities held for sale— (134,166)181,560 
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities(946,233)(2,537,736)1,189,869 
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Net change in deposits462,530 847,494 1,086,713 
Repayments of subordinated debentures(56,189)(1,563)(7,442)
Dividends paid on preferred stock— (47)(52)
Dividends paid on common stock(94,096)(78,845)(74,593)
Net change in other borrowed funds(516,726)(80,254)45,983 
Net change in federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase(25,000)(116,562)148,966 
Net shares (cancelled) issued under stock compensation plans(5,033)290 (4,087)
Shares issued under employee stock purchase plan1,151 1,170 956 
Repurchase of common stock(111,133)(132,459)(113,327)
Retirement of preferred stock— (767)— 
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities(344,496)438,457 1,083,117 
(DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS(968,531)(1,821,499)2,475,529 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR1,650,653 3,472,152 996,623 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR$682,122 $1,650,653 $3,472,152 


(In thousands)2019 2018 2017
OPERATING ACTIVITIES 
  
  
Net income$238,167
 $215,713
 $92,940
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:    
Depreciation and amortization36,257
 28,412
 21,062
Provision for loan losses43,240
 38,148
 26,393
Gain on sale of investments(13,314) (61) (1,059)
Net accretion of investment securities and assets(53,619) (48,684) (38,090)
Net amortization (accretion) on borrowings394
 (380) 561
Stock-based compensation expense12,921
 9,725
 10,681
Gain on sale of premises and equipment held for sale, net of impairment
 
 (615)
Gain on sale of foreclosed assets and other real estate owned(33) (650) (1,076)
Gain on sale of mortgage loans held for sale(20,064) (12,844) (12,186)
Loss (gain) on sale of loans4,451
 (10) (18)
Gain on sale of Visa, Inc. class B common stock(42,860) 
 
Fair value write-down of closed branches
 836
 325
Deferred income taxes34,911
 8,412
 23,251
Gain on sale of insurance lines of business
 
 (3,708)
Income from bank owned life insurance(4,854) (5,003) (3,503)
Originations of mortgage loans held for sale(755,500) (546,676) (507,907)
Proceeds from sale of mortgage loans held for sale756,642
 556,759
 526,245
Changes in assets and liabilities:     
Interest receivable3,231
 (6,227) (2,432)
Assets held in trading accounts
 
 41
Other assets42,189
 (1,414) 12,456
Accrued interest and other liabilities(35,886) 33,978
 (14,194)
Income taxes payable20,074
 (9,355) (14,604)
Net cash provided by operating activities266,347
 260,679
 114,563
INVESTING ACTIVITIES     
Net collections (originations) of loans23,806
 (912,793) (719,219)
Proceeds from sale of loans104,587
 24,977
 20,705
Decrease (increase) in due from banks - time1,130
 (1,620) 3,233
Purchases of premises and equipment, net(67,831) (29,740) (34,216)
Proceeds from sale of premises and equipment
 
 3,475
Purchases of other real estate owned
 
 (1,021)
Proceeds from sale of foreclosed assets and other real estate owned17,986
 27,751
 18,255
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities1,235,030
 7,959
 679,613
Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities776,084
 258,325
 487,717
Purchases of available-for-sale securities(1,710,483) (825,914) (854,708)
Proceeds from maturities of held-to-maturity securities31,969
 80,803
 97,494
Purchases of held-to-maturity securities
 (1,172) (860)
Proceeds from bank owned life insurance death benefits2,435
 1,814
 
Purchases of bank owned life insurance
 (4,000) (143)
Proceeds from the sale of insurance lines of business
 
 9,296
Cash received (paid) in business combinations178,260
 
 (48,092)
Disposition of assets and liabilities held for sale1,235
 (55,211) 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities594,208
 (1,428,821) (338,471)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES     
Net change in deposits(404,826) 1,305,877
 120,667
Proceeds from issuance of subordinated notes and other borrowings25,500
 326,355
 
Repayments of subordinated debentures and subordinated debt
 (113,990) (3,000)
Dividends paid on preferred stock(339) 
 
Dividends paid on common stock(63,921) (55,646) (35,116)
Net change in other borrowed funds(240,806) (34,574) 521,865
Net change in federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase40,207
 (26,652) (71,003)
Net shares (cancelled) issued under stock compensation plans(2,389) 1,162
 2,260
Shares issued under employee stock purchase plan1,312
 1,026
 618
Repurchase of common stock(10,128) 
 
Retirement of preferred stock(42,000) 
 
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities(697,390) 1,403,558
 536,291
INCREASE IN CASH EQUIVALENTS163,165
 235,416
 312,383
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR833,458
 598,042
 285,659
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR$996,623
 $833,458
 $598,042

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

75




Simmons First National Corporation
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity
Years Ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 20172020
(In thousands, except share data)Preferred StockCommon
Stock
SurplusAccumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Undivided
Profits
Total
Balance, December 31, 2019$767 $1,136 $2,117,282 $20,891 $848,848 $2,988,924 
Impact of ASU 2016-13 adoption— — — — (128,101)(128,101)
Comprehensive income— — — 38,835 254,904 293,739 
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan – 43,681 shares— 955 — — 956 
Stock-based compensation plans, net – 362,080 shares— 9,107 — — 9,110 
Stock repurchases - 5,956,700 shares— (59)(113,268)— — (113,327)
Dividends on preferred stock— — — — (52)(52)
Dividends on common stock – $0.68 per share— — — — (74,593)(74,593)
Balance, December 31, 2020767 1,081 2,014,076 59,726 901,006 2,976,656 
Comprehensive income— — — (70,271)271,156 200,885 
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan - 60,697 shares— 1,169 — — 1,170 
Stock-based compensation plans, net - 474,970 shares— 16,154 — — 16,158 
Stock issued for Landmark acquisition - 4,499,872 shares— 45 138,146 — — 138,191 
Stock issued for Triumph acquisition - 4,164,712 shares— 42 127,857 — — 127,899 
Preferred stock retirement(767)— — — — (767)
Stock repurchases - 4,562,469 shares— (46)(132,413)— — (132,459)
Dividends on preferred stock— — — — (47)(47)
Dividends on common stock - $0.72 per share— — — — (78,845)(78,845)
Balance, December 31, 2021— 1,127 2,164,989 (10,545)1,093,270 3,248,841 
Comprehensive income— — — (507,015)256,412 (250,603)
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan - 59,475 shares— 1,150 — — 1,151 
Stock-based compensation plans, net - 429,423 shares— 10,281 — — 10,284 
Stock issued for Spirit acquisition - 18,275,074 shares— 183 464,735 — — 464,918 
Stock repurchases - 4,432,762 shares— (44)(111,089)— — (111,133)
Dividends on common stock – $0.76 per share— — — — (94,096)(94,096)
Balance, December 31, 2022$— $1,270 $2,530,066 $(517,560)$1,255,586 $3,269,362 
(In thousands, except share data (1))
 Preferred Stock 
Common
Stock
 Surplus 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
 
Undivided
Profits
 Total
Balance, December 31, 2016 $
 $626
 $711,663
 $(15,212) $454,034
 $1,151,111
             
Comprehensive income 
 
 
 964
 92,940
 93,904
Reclassify stranded tax effects due to 2017 tax law changes 
 
 
 (3,016) 3,016
 
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan – 26,002 shares 
 
 618
 
 
 618
Stock-based compensation plans, net – 359,286 shares 
 3
 12,938
 
 
 12,941
Stock issued for Hardeman acquisition – 1,599,940 common shares 
 16
 42,622
 
 
 42,638
Stock issued for OKSB acquisition –14,488,604 common shares 
 145
 431,253
 
 
 431,398
Stock issued for First Texas acquisition – 12,999,840 common shares 
 130
 386,940
 
 
 387,070
Dividends on common stock – $0.50 per share 
 
 
 
 (35,116) (35,116)
             
Balance, December 31, 2017 
 920
 1,586,034
 (17,264) 514,874
 2,084,564
             
Comprehensive income 
 
 
 (10,110) 215,713
 205,603
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan – 39,782 shares 
 
 1,026
 
 
 1,026
Stock-based compensation plans, net – 278,743 shares 
 3
 10,884
 
 
 10,887
Dividends on common stock – $0.60 per share 
 
 
 
 (55,646) (55,646)
             
Balance, December 31, 2018 
 923
 1,597,944
 (27,374) 674,941
 2,246,434
             
Comprehensive income 
 
 
 48,265
 238,167
 286,432
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan - 60,413 
 1
 1,311
 
 
 1,312
Stock-based compensation plans, net - 261,200 shares 
 3
 10,529
 
 
 10,532
Stock issued for Reliance acquisition - 3,999,623 shares 42,000
 40
 102,790
 
 
 144,830
Stock issued for Landrum acquisition - 17,349,722 shares 767
 173
 414,832
 
 
 415,772
Preferred stock retirement (42,000) 
 
 
 
 (42,000)
Stock repurchases - 390,000 shares 
 (4) (10,124) 
 
 (10,128)
Dividends on preferred stock 
 
 
 
 (339) (339)
Dividends on common stock - $0.64 per share 
 
 
 
 (63,921) (63,921)
             
Balance, December 31, 2019 $767
 $1,136
 $2,117,282
 $20,891
 $848,848
 $2,988,924

(1)    All share and per share amounts for the year ended 2017 have been restated to reflect the effect of the 2-for-one stock split on February 8, 2018.


See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

76




Simmons First National Corporation
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
NOTE 1: SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Nature of Operations and Principles of Consolidation
 
Simmons First National Corporation (“Company”) is primarily engaged in providing a full range of banking and otherMid-South financial products and services to individual and corporate customers through its subsidiaries and their branch banks with offices. The Company isholding company headquartered in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and conducts banking operationsthe parent company of Simmons Bank, an Arkansas state-chartered bank that has been in communities throughout Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennesseeoperation since 1903 (“Simmons Bank” or the “Bank”). Simmons First Insurance Services, Inc. and Texas.Simmons First Insurance Services of TN, LLC are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Simmons Bank and are insurance agencies that offer various lines of personal and corporate insurance coverage to individual and commercial customers. The Company, through its subsidiaries, offers, among other things, consumer, real estate and commercial loans; checking, savings and time deposits; and specialized products and services (such as credit cards, trust and fiduciary services, investments, agricultural finance lending, equipment lending, insurance and small business administrationSmall Business Administration (“SBA”) lending) from approximately 251230 financial centers as of December 31, 2022, located throughout our market areas. The Company is subject to regulation of certain federalareas in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and state agencies and undergoes periodic examinations by those regulatory authorities.Texas.
 
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. Significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Simmons Bank is an Arkansas state-chartered bank and a member of the Federal Reserve System through the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. Due to the Company’s typical acquisition process, there may be brief periods of time during which the Company may operate another subsidiary bank that the Company acquired through a merger with a target bank holding company as a separate subsidiary while preparing for the merger and integration of that subsidiary bank into Simmons Bank. However, it is the Company’s intent to generally maintain Simmons Bank as the Company’s sole subsidiary bank.
 
Operating Segments
 
Operating segments are components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is regularly evaluated by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The Company is organized on a divisional basis.with community, metro and corporate banking groups. Each of the divisionsgroups provide a group ofone or more similar community banking services, including such products and services as loans; time deposits, checking and savings accounts; personaltreasury management; and corporate trust services; credit cards; investment management; insurance; and securities and investment services.cards. Loan products include consumer, real estate, commercial, agricultural, equipment, warehouse lending and SBA lending. The individual bank divisionsgroups have similar operating and economic characteristics. While the chief operating decision maker monitors the revenue streams of the various products, services, branch locations, divisions and divisions,groups, operations are managed, financial performance is evaluated, and management makes decisions on how to allocate resources, on a Company-wide basis. Accordingly, the divisionsrespective groups are considered by management to be aggregated into 1one reportable operating segment, community banking.segment.
 
The Company also considers its trust, investment and insurance services to be operating segments. Information on these segments is not reported separately since they do not meet the quantitative thresholds under Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 280-10-50-12.
 
Use of Estimates
 
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“US GAAP”),GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income items and expenses and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. The estimates and assumptions used in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are based upon management’s evaluation of the relevant facts and circumstances as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and actual results may differ from these estimates. Such estimates include, but are not limited to, the Company’s allowance for loancredit losses.
 
Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change relate to the determination of the allowance for loancredit losses, the valuation of real estate acquired in connection with foreclosures or in satisfaction of loans and the valuation of acquired loans. Management obtains independent appraisals for significant properties in connection with the determination of the allowance for loancredit losses and the valuation of foreclosed assets.
 

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Reclassifications

Various items within the accompanying consolidated financial statements for previous years have been reclassified to provide more comparative information. These reclassifications were not material to the consolidated financial statements.

Cash Equivalents
 
The Company considers all liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. For purposes of the consolidated statements of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents are considered to include cash and non-interestnoninterest bearing balances due from banks, interest bearing balances due from banks and federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell. At December 31, 2022, nearly all of the interest-bearing and noninterest bearing deposits were uninsured with nearly all of these balances held at the Federal Reserve Bank.

Investment Securities
 
Held-to-maturity securities (“HTM”), which include any security for which the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold until maturity, are carried at historical cost adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. Premiums and discounts are amortized and accreted, respectively, to interest income using the constant effective yield method over the periodestimated life of the security. Prepayments are anticipated for mortgage-backed and SBA securities. Premiums on callable securities are amortized to maturity.their earliest call date.
 
Available-for-sale securities (“AFS”), which include any security for which the Company has no immediate plan to sell but which may be sold in the future, are carried at fair value. Realized gains and losses, based on specifically identified amortized cost of the individual security, are included in other income. Unrealized gains and losses are recorded, net of related income tax effects, in stockholders’ equity. Premiums and discounts are amortized and accreted, respectively, to interest income using the constant effective yield method over the periodestimated life of the security. Prepayments are anticipated for mortgage-backed and SBA securities. Premiums on callable securities are amortized to maturity.their earliest call date.
 
Trading securities, if any, which include any security held primarily for near-term sale, are carried at fair value. Gains and losses on trading securities are included in other income.

Allowance for Credit Losses - Investment Securities
Allowance for Credit Losses - HTM Securities - The Company applies accounting guidance relatedmeasures expected credit losses on HTM securities on a collective basis by major security type, with each type sharing similar risk characteristics. The estimate of expected credit losses considers historical credit loss information that is adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The Company has made the election to recognitionexclude accrued interest receivable on HTM securities from the estimate of credit losses and presentation of other-than-temporary impairment under ASC Topic 320-10. Whenreport accrued interest separately on the consolidated balance sheets.

Allowance for Credit Losses - AFS Securities - For AFS securities in an unrealized loss position, the Company does not intendfirst evaluates whether it intends to sell, a debt security, andor whether it is more likely than not the Companythat it will not havebe required to sell, the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of these criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the AFS security amortized cost basis it recognizesis written down to fair value through income. If the criteria is not met, the Company is required to assess whether the decline in fair value has resulted from credit losses or noncredit-related factors. If the assessment indicates a credit loss exists, the present value of cash flows expected to be collected from the security are compared to the amortized cost basis of the security. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis, a credit loss exists, and an allowance for credit loss is recorded through income as a component of an other-than-temporary impairment ofprovision for credit loss expense. If the assessment indicates that a debt securitycredit loss does not exist, the Company records the decline in earnings and the remaining portion in other comprehensive income. For held-to-maturity debt securities, the amount of an other-than-temporary impairment recorded infair value through other comprehensive income, net of related income tax effects. The Company has made the election to exclude accrued interest receivable on AFS securities from the estimate of credit losses and report accrued interest separately on the consolidated balance sheets. Changes in the allowance for credit losses are recorded as provision for (or reversal of) credit loss expense. Losses are charged against the noncredit portionallowance when management believes the uncollectibility of a previous other-than-temporary impairmentan AFS security is amortized prospectively over the remaining lifeconfirmed or when either of the security on the basis of the timing of future estimated cash flows of the security.
As a result of this guidance, the Company’s consolidated statements of income reflect the full impairment (that is, the difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and fair value) on debt securities that the Company intendscriteria regarding intent or requirement to sell or would more likely than not be required to sell before the expected recovery of the amortized cost basis. For available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities that management has no intent to sell and believes that it more likely than not will not be required to sell prior to recovery, only the credit loss component of the impairment is recognized in earnings, while the noncredit loss is recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income. The credit loss component recognized in earnings is identified as the amount of principal cash flows not expected to be received over the remaining term of the security as projected based on cash flow projections.met.


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Mortgage Loans Held For Sale
 
Mortgage Loans Held for Sale are carried at fair value which is determined on an aggregate basis. Adjustments to fair value are recognized monthly and reflected in earnings. The Company regularly sells mortgages into the capital markets to mitigate the effects of interest rate volatility during the period from the time an interest rate lock commitment (“IRLC”) is issued until the IRLC funds creating a mortgage loan held for sale and its subsequent sale into the secondary/capital markets. Loan sales are typically executed on a mandatory basis. Under a mandatory commitment, the Company agrees to deliver a specified dollar amount with predetermined terms by a certain date. Generally, the commitment is not loan specific, and any combination of loans can be delivered into the outstanding commitment provided the terms fall within the parameters of the commitment. Upon failure to deliver, the Company is subject to fees based on market movement.

The IRLCs are derivative instruments; their fair values at December 31, 20192022 and 20182021 were not material. Gains and losses resulting from sales of mortgage loans are recognized when the respective loans are sold to correspondent lenders, investors or aggregators. Gains and losses are determined by the difference between the sale price and the carrying amount in the loans sold, net of discounts collected, or premiums paid. Hedge instruments are, likewise, carried at fair value and associated gains/losses are realized at time of settlement.


Loans
 
Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or pay-offs are reported at their amortized cost basis, which is the unpaid principal balance outstanding, principal adjusted for anynet of unearned income, deferred loan fees and costs, premiums and discounts associated with acquisition date fair value adjustments on acquired loans, charged off, the allowance for loan losses and any unamortized deferred fees or costs on originateddirect principal charge-offs. The Company has made a policy election to exclude accrued interest from the amortized cost basis of loans and unamortized premiums or discountsreport accrued interest separately from the related loan balance on purchased loans.the consolidated balance sheets.
 
For loans amortized at cost, interest income is accrued based on the unpaid principal balance. Loan origination fees, net of certain direct origination costs, as well as premiums and discounts, are deferred and amortized as a level yield adjustment over the respective term of the loan.
 
The accrual of interest on loans, except on certain government guaranteed loans, is discontinued at the time the loan is 90 days past due unless the credit is well-secured and in process of collection. Past due status is based on contractual terms of the loan. In all cases, loans are placed on nonaccrualnon-accrual or charged off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful.

Discounts and premiums on purchased residential real estate loans are amortized to income using the interest method over the remaining period to contractual maturity, adjusted for anticipated prepayments. Discounts and premiums on purchased consumer loans are recognized over the expected lives of the loans using methods that approximate the interest method.
 
ForFurther information regarding accounting policies related to past due loans, non-accrual loans, and troubled-debt restructurings is presented in Note 5, Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses. Additionally, for discussion of the Company’s accounting for acquired loans, see Acquisition Accounting, Acquired Loans later in this section.

Allowance for LoanCredit Losses
 
The allowance for loancredit losses is a reserve established through a provision for credit losses charged to expense, which represents management’s best estimate of probablelifetime expected losses based on reasonable and supportable forecasts, historical loss experience, and other qualitative considerations. The allowance, in the judgment of management, is necessary to reserve for expected credit losses and risks inherent in the loan portfolio. LoanThe Company’s allowance for credit loss methodology includes reserve factors calculated to estimate current expected credit losses are charged againstto amortized cost balances over the remaining contractual life of the portfolio, adjusted for prepayments, in accordance with ASC Topic 326-20, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses. Accordingly, the methodology is based on the Company’s reasonable and supportable economic forecasts, historical loss experience, and other qualitative adjustments. Management’s evaluation of the allowance when management believesfor credit losses is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates. It is management’s practice to review the uncollectabilityallowance on a monthly basis, and after considering the factors previously noted, to determine the level of a loan balance is confirmed. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are creditedprovision made to the allowance.

Allocations
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Loans with similar risk characteristics such as loan type, collateral type, and internal risk ratings are aggregated into homogeneous segments for assessment. Reserve factors are based on estimated probability of default and loss given default for each segment. The estimates are determined based on economic forecasts over the reasonable and supportable forecast period based on projected performance of economic variables that have a statistical relationship with the historical loss experience of the segments. For contractual periods that extend beyond the one-year forecast period, the estimates revert to average historical loss experiences over a one-year period on a straight-line basis.

The Company also includes qualitative adjustments to the allowance for loan losses are categorized as either general reserves or specific reserves.
The allowance for loan losses is calculated monthly based on management’s assessmentfactors and considerations that have not otherwise been fully accounted for. Qualitative adjustments include, but are not limited to:

Changes in asset quality - Adjustments related to trending credit quality metrics including delinquency, nonperforming loans, charge-offs, and risk ratings that may not be fully accounted for in the reserve factor.
Changes in the nature and volume of several factors such as (1) historical loss experience based on volumesthe portfolio - Adjustments related to current changes in the loan portfolio that are not fully represented or accounted for in the reserve factors.
Changes in lending and types, (2) volume and trends in delinquencies and nonaccruals, (3) lendingloan monitoring policies and procedures including those for - Adjustments related to current changes in lending and loan losses, collections and recoveries, (4) national, state and local economic trends and conditions, (5) external factors and pressure from competition, (6)monitoring procedures as well as review of specific internal policy compliance metrics.
Changes in the experience, ability, and depth of lending management and other relevant staff (7) seasoning - Adjustments to measure increasing or decreasing credit risk related to lending and loan monitoring management.
Changes in the value of new products obtained and new markets entered through acquisition and (8) other factors and trends that will affect specificunderlying collateral of collateralized loans and categories- Adjustments related to improving or deterioration of loans. The Company establishes general allocations for each major loan category. This category also includes allocations to loans which are collectively evaluated for loss such as credit cards, one-to-four family owner occupied residential real estate loans and other consumer loans. General reserves have been established, based upon the aforementioned factors and allocated to the individual loan categories.
Specific reserves are provided on loansvalue of underlying collateral that are considered impaired when itnot fully captured in the reserve factors.
Changes in and the existence and effect of any concentrations of credit - Adjustments related to credit risk of specific industries that are not fully captured in the reserve factors.
Changes in regional and local economic and business conditions and developments - Adjustments related to expected and current economic conditions at a regional or local-level that are not fully captured within the Company’s reasonable and supportable forecast.
Data imprecisions due to limited historical loss data - Adjustments related to limited historical loss data that is representative of the collective loan portfolio.
Collateral Dependent Loans

Loans that do not share risk characteristics are evaluated on an individual basis. For collateral dependent financial assets where the Company has determined that foreclosure of the collateral is probable, thator where the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and the Company will not receive all amounts due according to the contractual termsexpects repayment of the loan, including scheduled principal and interest payments. This includes loans that are delinquent 90 daysfinancial asset to be provided substantially through the operation or more, nonaccrual loans and certain other loans identified by management. Certain other loans identified by management consist of performing loans where management expects that the Company will not receive all amounts due according to the contractual termssale of the loan, including scheduled principal and interest payments. Specific reserves are accruedcollateral, the allowance for probable lossescredit loss is measured based on specific loans evaluated for impairment for which the basis of each loan, including accrued interest, exceeds the discounted amount of expected future collections of interest and principal or, alternatively,difference between the fair value of loanthe collateral and the amortized cost basis of the asset as of the measurement date. When repayment is expected to be from the operation of the collateral, expected credit losses are calculated as the amount by which the amortized cost basis of the financial asset exceeds the present value of expected cash flows from the operation of the collateral. AccrualWhen repayment is expected to be from the sale of interest is discontinued and interest accrued and unpaid is removedthe collateral, expected credit losses are calculated as the amount by which the amortized costs basis of the financial asset exceeds the fair value of the underlying collateral less estimated cost to sell. The allowance for credit losses may be zero if the fair value of the collateral at the time such amounts are delinquent 90 days unless managementmeasurement date exceeds the amortized cost basis of the financial asset.
For a collateral dependent loan, the Company’s evaluation process includes a valuation by appraisal or other collateral analysis adjusted for selling costs, when appropriate. This valuation is aware of circumstances which warrant continuing the interest accrual. Interest is recognized for nonaccrual loans only upon receipt and only after all principal amounts are current accordingcompared to the termsremaining outstanding principal balance of the contract.
Management’s evaluation ofloan. If a loss is determined to be probable, the loss is included in the allowance for credit losses as a specific allocation. If the loan losses is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates. The actual amountsnot collateral dependent, the measurement of loan losses realized inloss is based on the near term could differ fromdifference between the amounts estimated in arriving atexpected and contractual future cash flows of the allowance for loan losses reported in the financial statements.loan.

On January 1, 2020, the Company was required to adopt a new credit loss methodology, the Current Expected Credit Losses (“CECL”) methodology, which requires earlier recognition of credit losses. See Note 20, New Accounting Standards, for additional information regarding adoption.



Reserve for Unfunded Commitments

In addition to the allowance for loancredit losses, the Company has established a reserve for unfunded commitments, classified in other liabilities.liabilities, representing expected credit losses over the contractual period for which the Company is exposed to credit risk resulting from a contractual obligation to extend credit. This reserve is maintained at a level management believes to be sufficient to absorb losses arising from unfunded loan commitments. The adequacy of the reserve for unfunded commitments is determined monthlyquarterly based on methodology similar to the Company’s methodology for determining the allowance for loancredit losses. Net adjustmentsThe allowance for credit loss is reported as a component of accrued interest and other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. Adjustments to the reserveallowance are reported in the income statement as a component of the provision for unfunded commitments are included in other non-interest expense.credit losses.

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Acquisition Accounting, Loans Acquired
 
The Company accounts for its acquisitions under ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations, which requires the use of the acquisition method of accounting. All identifiable assets acquired, including loans, are recorded at fair value. No allowanceThe fair value for loan losses related to the acquired loans at the time of acquisition is recordedbased on the acquisition date asa variety of factors including discounted expected cash flows, adjusted for estimated prepayments and credit losses. In accordance with ASC 326, the fair value adjustment is recorded as premium or discount to the unpaid principal balance of each acquired loan. Loans that have been identified as having experienced a more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since origination is a purchased credit deteriorated (“PCD”) loan. The net premium or discount on PCD loans is adjusted by the loans acquired incorporates assumptions regardingCompany’s allowance for credit risk. Loans acquired arelosses recorded at fair value in accordance with the fair value methodology prescribed in ASC Topic 820.time of acquisition. The fair value estimates associated with the loans include estimates related to expected prepayments and the amount and timing of undiscounted expected principal, interest and other cash flows.
The Company evaluates loans acquired in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-20, Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs. The fair valueremaining net premium or discount on these loans is accreted or amortized into interest income over the weighted average life of the loans using a constant yield method. These loans are not considered impaired. The Company evaluates purchased impaired loans in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality. Purchased loans are considered impaired if there is evidence of credit deterioration since origination and if it is probable that not all contractually required payments will be collected. All loans acquired are considered impaired if there is evidence of credit deterioration since origination and if it is probable that not all contractually required payments will be collected.

For impaired loans accounted for under ASC Topic 310-30, the Company continues to estimate cash flows expected to be collected on purchased credit impaired loans. The Company evaluates at each balance sheet date whether the present value of the purchased credit impaired loans determined using the effective interest rates has decreased significantly and if so, recognize a provision for loan loss in our consolidated statement of income. For any significant increases in cash flows expected to be collected, the Company adjusts the amount of accretable yield recognized on a prospective basis over the remaining life of the purchasedloan using a constant yield method. The net premium or discount on loans that are not classified as PCD (“non-PCD”), that includes credit impaired loan.and non-credit components, is accreted or amortized into interest income over the remaining life of the loan using a constant yield method. The Company then records the necessary allowance for credit losses on the non-PCD loans through provision for credit losses expense.

For further discussion of ourthe Company’s acquisition and loan accounting, see Note 2, Acquisitions, and Note 6,5, Loans Acquired.and Allowance for Credit Losses.

Trust Assets
 
Trust assets (other than cash deposits) held by the Company in fiduciary or agency capacities for its customers are not included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets since such items are not assets of the Company.

Premises and Equipment
 
Depreciable assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is charged to expense using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are capitalized and amortized by the straight-line method over the terms of the respective leases or the estimated useful lives of the improvements, whichever is shorter. Right-of-use lease assets are operating leases with a term greater than one year and are included in premises and equipment.
 
Foreclosed Assets Held For Sale
 
Assets acquired by foreclosure or in settlement of debt and held for sale are valued at estimated fair value less estimated cost to sell as of the date of foreclosure, and a related valuation allowance is provided for estimated costs to sell the assets.foreclosure. Management evaluates the value of foreclosed assets held for sale periodically and increases the valuation allowance for any subsequent declines in fair value. Changesdecreases in the valuation allowancefair value are charged or credited to other expense.

Bank Owned Life Insurance
 
The Company maintains bank-owned life insurance policies on certain current and former employees and directors, which are recorded at their cash surrender values as determined by the insurance carriers. The appreciation in the cash surrender value of the policies is recognized as a component of non-interestnoninterest income in the Company’s consolidated statements of income.
 


Goodwill and Intangible Assets
 
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Other intangible assets represent purchased assets that also lack physical substance but can be separately distinguished from goodwill because of contractual or other legal rights or because the asset is capable of being sold or exchanged either on its own or in combination with a related contract, asset or liability. The Company performs an annual goodwill impairment test, and more frequentlythan annually if circumstances warrant, in accordance with ASC Topic 350, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other, as amended by Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2011-08 - Testing Goodwill for Impairment. ASC Topic 350 requires that goodwill and intangible assets that have indefinite lives be reviewed for impairment annually, or more frequently if certain conditions occur. Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over the estimated life of the asset, and are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicated that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Impairment losses on recorded goodwill, if any, will be recorded as operating expenses.


81


Derivative Financial Instruments
 
The Company may enter into derivative contracts for the purposes of managing exposure to interest rate risk to meet the financing needs of its customers. A derivative instrument is a financial tool which derives its value from the value of some other financial instrument, or variable index, including certain hedging instruments embedded in other contracts. These products are primarily designed to reduce interest rate risk for either the Company or its customers who proactively manage these risks.

The Company records all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. In an effort to meet the financing needs of its customers and mitigate the impact of changing interest rates on the fair value of AFS securities, the Company has entered into fair value hedges. Fair value hedges include interest rate swap agreements on fixed rate loans.loans and fixed rate callable AFS securities. To qualify for hedge accounting, derivatives must be highly effective at reducing the risk associated with the exposure being hedged and must be designated as a hedge at the point of inception of the derivative contract.
 
For derivatives designated as hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of the hedged item, the gain or loss is recognized in earnings in the period of change together with the offsetting loss or gain of the hedging instrument. The fair value hedges are considered to be highly effective and any hedge ineffectiveness was deemed not material. Fair value adjustments related to cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income and are reclassified to earnings when the hedged transaction is reflected in earnings.
 
Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase
 
The Company sells securities under agreements to repurchase to meet customer needs for sweep accounts. At the point funds deposited by customers become investable, those funds are used to purchase securities owned by the Company and held in its general account with the designation of Customers’ Securities. A third party maintains control over the securities underlying overnight repurchase agreements. The securities involved in these transactions are generally U.S. Treasury or Federal Agency issues. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase generally mature on the banking day following that on which the investment was initially purchased and are treated as collateralized financing transactions which are recorded at the amounts at which the securities were sold plus accrued interest. Interest rates and maturity dates of the securities involved vary and are not intended to be matched with funds from customers.
 
Revenue from Contracts with Customers
 
ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, applies to all contracts with customers to provide goods or services in the ordinary course of business. However, Topic 606 specifically does not apply to revenue related to financial instruments, guarantees, insurance contracts, leases, or nonmonetary exchanges. Given these scope exceptions, interest income recognition and measurement related to loans and investments securities, the Company’s two largest sources of revenue, are not accounted for under Topic 606. Also, the Company does not use Topic 606 to account for gains or losses on its investments in securities, loans, and derivatives due to the scope exceptions.
 
Certain revenue streams, such as service charges on deposit accounts, gains or losses on the sale of OREO, and trust income, fall under the scope of Topic 606 and the Company must recognize revenue at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for transferring goods or services to a customer. Topic 606 is applied using five steps: 1) identify the contract with the customer, 2) identify the performance obligations in the contract, 3) determine the transaction price, 4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and 5) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation.



The Company has evaluated the nature of all contracts with customers that fall under the scope of Topic 606 and determined that further disaggregation of revenue from contracts with customers into categories was not necessary. There has not been significant revenue recognized in the current reporting periods resulting from performance obligations satisfied in previous periods. In addition, there has not been a significant change in timing of revenues received from customers.


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A description of performance obligations for each type of contract with customers is as follows:
 
Service charges on deposit accounts – The Company’s primary source of funding comes from deposit accounts with its customers. Customers pay certain fees to access their cash on deposit including, but not limited to, non-transactional fees such as account maintenance, dormancy or statement rendering fees, and certain transaction-based fees such as ATM, wire transfer, overdraft or returned check fees. The Company generally satisfies its performance obligations as services are rendered. The transaction prices are fixed, and are charged either on a periodic basis or based on activity.
 
Sale of OREO – In the normal course of business, the Company will enter into contracts with customers to sell OREO, which has generally been foreclosed upon by the Company. The Company generally satisfies its performance obligation upon conveyance of property from the Company to the customer, generally by way of an executed agreement. The transaction price is fixed, and on occasion the Company will finance a portion of the proceeds the customers uses to purchase the property. These properties are generally sold without recourse or warranty.
 
Trust IncomeWealth Management Fees – The Company enters into contracts with its customers to manage assets for investment, and/or transact on their accounts. The Company generally satisfies its performance obligations as services are rendered. The management fee is a fixed percentage-based fee calculated upon the average balance of assets under management and is charged to customers on a monthly basis.

Bankcard Fee Income – Periodic bankcard fees, net of direct origination costs, are recognized as revenue on a straight-line basis over the period the fee entitles the cardholder to use the card.
 
Income Taxes
 
The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with income tax accounting guidance in ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes. The income tax accounting guidance results in two components of income tax expense: current and deferred. Current income tax expense reflects taxes to be paid or refunded for the current period by applying the provisions of the enacted tax law to the taxable income or excess of deductions over revenues. The Company determines deferred income taxes using the liability (or balance sheet) method. Under this method, the net deferred tax asset or liability is based on the tax effects of the differences between the book and tax bases of assets and liabilities, and enacted changes in tax rates and laws are recognized in the period in which they occur.
 
Deferred income tax expense results from changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities between periods. Deferred tax assets are recognized if it is more likely than not, based on the technical merits, that the tax position will be realized or sustained upon examination. The term more likely than not means a likelihood of more than 50 percent; the terms examined and upon examination also include resolution of the related appeals or litigation processes, if any. A tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. The determination of whether or not a tax position has met the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold considers the facts, circumstances and information available at the reporting date and is subject to management’s judgment. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of evidence available, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized.
 
The Company files consolidated income tax returns with its subsidiaries.
 


83


Earnings Per Share
 
Basic earnings per share are computed based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding during each year. Diluted earnings per share are computed using the weighted average common shares and all potential dilutive common shares outstanding during the period. All share and per share amounts have been restated to reflect the effect of the 2-for-one stock split during February 2018.

The computation of per share earnings is as follows: 
(In thousands, except per share data) 2019 2018 2017
Net income available to common stockholders $237,828
 $215,713
 $92,940
       
Average common shares outstanding 98,351
 92,268
 69,385
Average potential dilutive common shares 446
 562
 468
Average diluted common shares 98,797
 92,830
 69,853
       
Basic earnings per share $2.42
 $2.34
 $1.34
Diluted earnings per share $2.41
 $2.32
 $1.33

(In thousands, except per share data)202220212020
Net income available to common stockholders$256,412 $271,109 $254,852 
Average common shares outstanding123,958 109,577 109,860 
Average potential dilutive common shares512 621 313 
Average diluted common shares124,470 110,198 110,173 
Basic earnings per share$2.07 $2.47 $2.32 
Diluted earnings per share$2.06 $2.46 $2.31 
 
There were 0no stock options excluded from the earnings per share calculationcalculations due to the related stock option exercise price exceeding the average market price for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022 and 2017.2021. There were approximately 653,718 stock options excluded from the year ended December 31, 2020 earnings per share calculation due to the related stock option exercise price exceeding the average market price.
 
Stock-Based Compensation
 
The Company has adopted various stock-based compensation plans. The plans provide for the grant of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and performance stock units. Pursuant to the plans, shares are reserved for future issuance by the Company, upon exercise of stock options or awarding of performance or bonus shares granted to directors, officers and other key employees.
In accordance with ASC Topic 718, Compensation – Stock Compensation, the fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model that uses various assumptions. This model requires the input of highly subjective assumptions, changes to which can materially affect the fair value estimate. For additional information, see Note 15, Employee Benefit Plans.

NOTE 2: ACQUISITIONS

The Landrum CompanySpirit of Texas Bancshares, Inc.

On October 31, 2019,April 8, 2022, the Company completed its merger with The Landrum CompanySpirit of Texas Bancshares, Inc. (“Landrum”Spirit”), pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of July 30, 2019November 18, 2021 (“LandrumSpirit Agreement”), at which time Landrum wasSpirit merged with and into the Company, with the Company continuing as the surviving corporation. Pursuant to the terms of the Landrum Agreement, the shares of Landrum Class A Common Voting Stock, par value $0.01 per share, and Landrum Class B Common Nonvoting Stock, par value $0.01 per share, were converted into the right to receive, in the aggregate, approximately 17,350,000 shares of the Company’s common stock and each share of Landrum’s series E preferred stock was converted into the right to receive 1 share of the Company’s comparable series D preferred stock. The Company issued 17,349,72218,275,074 shares of its common stock and 767 sharesvalued at approximately $464.9 million as of its series D preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share,April 8, 2022, plus $1,393,508.90 in cash, in exchange for all outstanding shares of LandrumSpirit capital stock (and common stock equivalents) to effect the merger.

Prior to the acquisition, Landrum,Spirit, headquartered in Columbia, Missouri,Conroe, Texas, conducted banking business through its subsidiary bank, LandmarkSpirit of Texas Bank SSB, from 3935 branches located primarily in Missouri, Oklahomathe Texas Triangle - consisting of Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio and Austin metropolitan areas - with additional locations in the Bryan-College Station, Corpus Christi and Tyler metropolitan areas, along with offices in North Central and South Texas. Including the effects of the acquisition method accounting adjustments, the Company acquired approximately $3.4$3.11 billion in assets, including approximately $2.0$2.29 billion in loans (inclusive of loan discounts), and approximately $3.0$2.72 billion in deposits. The systems conversion occurred on February 14, 2020, at which time Landmark Bank merged into Simmons Bank, with Simmons Bank as the surviving institution.



Goodwill of $131.3$172.9 million was recorded as a result of the transaction. The merger strengthened the Company’s position in the Texas market share and brought forth additional opportunities in the Company’s current footprint, which gave rise to the goodwill recorded. The goodwill will not be deductible for tax purposes.


84


A summary, at fair value, of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Landrum transaction,Spirit acquisition, as of the acquisition date, is as follows:

(In thousands)Acquired from SpiritFair Value AdjustmentsFair Value
Assets Acquired
Cash and due from banks$277,790 $— $277,790 
Investment securities362,088 (13,401)348,687 
Loans acquired2,314,085 (19,925)2,294,160 
Allowance for credit losses on loans(17,005)7,382 (9,623)
Premises and equipment84,135 (19,074)65,061 
Bank owned life insurance36,890 — 36,890 
Goodwill77,681 (77,681)— 
Core deposit and other intangible assets6,245 32,386 38,631 
Other assets58,403 (2,448)55,955 
Total assets acquired$3,200,312 $(92,761)$3,107,551 
Liabilities Assumed
Deposits:
Noninterest bearing transaction accounts$825,228 $(165)$825,063 
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits1,383,663 — 1,383,663 
Time deposits509,209 1,081 510,290 
Total deposits2,718,100 916 2,719,016 
Other borrowings37,547 503 38,050 
Subordinated debentures36,491 879 37,370 
Accrued interest and other liabilities23,667 (3,918)19,749 
Total liabilities assumed2,815,805 (1,620)2,814,185 
Equity384,507 (384,507)— 
Total equity assumed384,507 (384,507)— 
Total liabilities and equity assumed$3,200,312 $(386,127)$2,814,185 
Net assets acquired293,366 
Purchase price466,311 
Goodwill$172,945 
(In thousands)Acquired from Landrum Fair Value Adjustments Fair Value
Assets Acquired     
Cash and due from banks$215,285
 $
 $215,285
Due from banks - time248
 
 248
Investment securities1,021,755
 4,100
 1,025,855
Loans acquired2,049,137
 (43,201) 2,005,936
Allowance for loan losses(22,736) 22,736
 
Foreclosed assets373
 (183) 190
Premises and equipment63,878
 20,588
 84,466
Bank owned life insurance19,206
 
 19,206
Goodwill407
 (407) 
Core deposit intangible
 24,345
 24,345
Other intangibles412
 4,704
 5,116
Other assets33,924
 (7,251) 26,673
Total assets acquired$3,381,889
 $25,431
 $3,407,320
      
Liabilities Assumed     
Deposits:     
Non-interest bearing transaction accounts$716,675
 $
 $716,675
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits1,465,429
 
 1,465,429
Time deposits867,197
 299
 867,496
Total deposits3,049,301
 299
 3,049,600
Other borrowings10,055
 
 10,055
Subordinated debentures34,794
 (877) 33,917
Accrued interest and other liabilities31,057
 (1,748) 29,309
Total liabilities assumed3,125,207
 (2,326) 3,122,881
Equity256,682
 (256,682) 
Total equity assumed256,682
 (256,682) 
Total liabilities and equity assumed$3,381,889
 $(259,008) $3,122,881
Net assets acquired    284,439
Purchase price    415,779
Goodwill    $131,340


The purchase price allocation and certain fair value measurements remain preliminary due to the timing of the merger. Management will continue to review the estimated fair values and evaluate the assumed tax positions. The Company expects to finalize its analysis of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities in this transaction over the next few months, within one year of the completion of the merger. Therefore, adjustments to the estimated amounts and carrying values may occur.

The Company’s operating results include the operating results of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities of LandrumSpirit subsequent to the acquisition date.



85


Reliance Bancshares, Inc.Summary of Unaudited Pro forma Information

The unaudited pro forma information below for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 gives effect to the Spirit acquisition as if the acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2021. Pro forma earnings for the year ended December 31, 2022 were adjusted to exclude $18.7 million of acquisition-related costs, net of tax, incurred by the Company during 2022. The pro forma financial information is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations if the acquisition had been effective as of this date.

(In thousands, except per share data)20222021
Revenue(1)
$912,631 $927,061 
Net income$264,522 $307,752 
Diluted earnings per share$2.04 $2.40 
_________________________
(1)    Net interest income plus non-interest income.

As previously discussed, the Company’s acquisition of Spirit was completed on April 8, 2022, at which time Spirit was fully integrated into the Company’s operations. As a result, it is impracticable for the Company to provide certain post-closing information, such as revenue and earnings, as it relates to the Spirit acquisition.

Landmark Community Bank

On April 12, 2019,October 8, 2021, the Company completed its merger with Reliance Bancshares, Inc.acquisition of Landmark Community Bank (“Reliance”Landmark”), headquartered in the St. Louis, Missouri, metropolitan area, pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of June 4, 2021 (“RelianceLandmark Agreement”), dated November 13, 2018,at which time Landmark merged with and into Simmons Bank, with Simmons Bank continuing as amended February 11, 2019. In the merger, each outstanding share of Reliance common stock, as well as each Reliance common stock equivalent was canceled and converted into the right to receive shares of the Company’s common stock and/or cash in accordance with the terms of the Reliance Agreement. In addition, each share of Reliance’s Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock was converted into the right to receive 1 share of Simmons’ comparable Series A Preferred Stock or Series B Preferred Stock, respectively, and each share of Reliance’s Series C Preferred Stock was converted into the right to receive 1 share of Simmons’ comparable Series C Preferred Stock (unless the holder of such Series C Preferred Stock elected to receive alternate consideration in accordance with the Reliance Agreement).surviving entity. The Company issued 3,999,6234,499,872 shares of its common stock and paid $62.7valued at approximately $138.2 million as of October 8, 2021, plus $6,451,727.43 in cash, in exchange for all outstanding shares of Landmark capital stock (and common stock equivalents) to effect the merger. The Company also issued $42.0 million of its Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock. On May 13, 2019, the Company redeemed all of the preferred stock issued in connection with the merger, and paid all accrued and unpaid dividends up to the date of redemption. On October 29, 2019, the Company amended its Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation to cancel the Series C Preferred Stock, having 140 authorized shares, of which 0 shares were ever issued or outstanding.


Prior to the acquisition, RelianceLandmark, headquartered in Collierville, Tennessee, conducted banking business through its subsidiary bank, Reliance Bank, from 228 branches located in Missourithe Memphis and Illinois.Nashville, Tennessee, metropolitan areas. Including the effects of the acquisition method accounting adjustments, the Company acquired approximately $1.5 billion$968.8 million in assets, including approximately $1.1 billion$789.5 million in loans (inclusive of loan discounts), and approximately $1.2 billion$802.7 million in deposits. Contemporaneously with the completion of the Reliance merger, Reliance Bank was merged into Simmons Bank, with Simmons Bank as the surviving institution.

Goodwill of $78.5$31.4 million was recorded as a result of the transaction. The merger strengthened the Company’s market share and brought forth additional opportunities in the Company’s St. Louis metropolitan areacurrent footprint, which gave rise to the goodwill recorded. The goodwill will not be deductible for tax purposes.


86


A summary, at fair value, of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Reliance transaction,Landmark acquisition, as of the acquisition date, is as follows:

(In thousands)Acquired from LandmarkFair Value AdjustmentsFair Value
Assets Acquired
Cash and due from banks$27,591 $— $27,591 
Due from banks - time100 — 100 
Investment securities114,793 (125)114,668 
Loans acquired785,551 3,953 789,504 
Allowance for credit losses on loans(5,980)3,621 (2,359)
Premises and equipment9,540 (4,099)5,441 
Bank owned life insurance21,287 — 21,287 
Core deposit intangible88 4,071 4,159 
Other assets13,036 (4,605)8,431 
Total assets acquired$966,006 $2,816 $968,822 
Liabilities Assumed
Deposits:
Noninterest bearing transaction accounts$110,393 $— $110,393 
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits425,777 — 425,777 
Time deposits266,835 (334)266,501 
Total deposits803,005 (334)802,671 
Other borrowings47,023 — 47,023 
Accrued interest and other liabilities8,459 (3,122)5,337 
Total liabilities assumed858,487 (3,456)855,031 
Equity107,519 (107,519)— 
Total equity assumed107,519 (107,519)— 
Total liabilities and equity assumed$966,006 $(110,975)$855,031 
Net assets acquired113,791 
Purchase price145,195 
Goodwill$31,404 
(In thousands)Acquired from Reliance Fair Value Adjustments Fair Value
Assets Acquired     
Cash and due from banks$25,693
 $
 $25,693
Due from banks - time502
 
 502
Investment securities287,983
 (1,873) 286,110
Loans acquired1,138,527
 (41,657) 1,096,870
Allowance for loan losses(10,808) 10,808
 
Foreclosed assets11,092
 (5,180) 5,912
Premises and equipment32,452
 (3,001) 29,451
Bank owned life insurance39,348
 
 39,348
Core deposit intangible
 18,350
 18,350
Other assets25,165
 6,911
 32,076
Total assets acquired$1,549,954
 $(15,642) $1,534,312
      



(In thousands)Acquired from Reliance Fair Value Adjustments Fair Value
Liabilities Assumed     
Deposits:     
Non-interest bearing transaction accounts$108,845
 $(33) $108,812
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits639,798
 
 639,798
Time deposits478,415
 (1,758) 476,657
Total deposits1,227,058
 (1,791) 1,225,267
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase14,146
 
 14,146
Other borrowings162,900
 (5,500) 157,400
Accrued interest and other liabilities8,185
 268
 8,453
Total liabilities assumed1,412,289
 (7,023) 1,405,266
Equity137,665
 (137,665) 
Total equity assumed137,665
 (137,665) 
Total liabilities and equity assumed$1,549,954
 $(144,688) $1,405,266
Net assets acquired    129,046
Purchase price    207,539
Goodwill    $78,493


The purchase price allocation and certain fair value measurements remain preliminary due toDuring 2022, the timing of the merger. Management will continue to review the estimated fair values and evaluate the assumed tax positions. The Company expects to finalizefinalized its analysis of the loans acquired along with other acquired assets and assumed liabilities in this transaction over the next few months, within one year of the merger. Therefore, adjustmentsrelated to the estimated amounts and carrying values may occur.Landmark.

The Company’s operating results include the operating results of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities of RelianceLandmark subsequent to the acquisition date.

Southwest Bancorp,Triumph Bancshares, Inc.

On October 19, 2017,8, 2021, the Company completed the acquisition of Southwest Bancorp,its merger with Triumph Bancshares, Inc. (“OKSB”Triumph”) headquartered in Stillwater, Oklahoma, including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Bank SNB.pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of June 4, 2021 (“Triumph Agreement”), at which time Triumph merged with and into the Company, with the Company continuing as the surviving corporation. The Company issued 14,488,6044,164,712 shares of its common stock valued at approximately $431.4$127.9 million as of October 19, 2017,8, 2021, plus $94.9 million$1,693,402.93 in cash, in exchange for all outstanding shares of OKSBTriumph capital stock (and common stock.stock equivalents) to effect the merger.

Prior to the acquisition, OKSBTriumph, headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, conducted banking business through its subsidiary bank, Triumph Bank, SNB from 296 branches located in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansasthe Memphis and Colorado. In addition, OKSB owned a loan production office in Denver, Colorado.Nashville, Tennessee, metropolitan areas. Including the effects of the acquisition method accounting adjustments, the Company acquired approximately $2.7 billion$847.2 million in assets, including approximately $2.0 billion$698.8 million in loans (inclusive of loan discounts), and approximately $2.0 billion$719.7 million in deposits. The Company completed the systems conversion and merged Bank SNB into Simmons Bank in May 2018.

87


Goodwill of $229.1$39.9 million was recorded as a result of the transaction. The acquisition allowed the Company to enter the Texas, Oklahoma and Colorado banking markets and it alsomerger strengthened the Company’s Kansas franchisemarket share and its product offeringsbrought forth additional opportunities in the healthcare and real estate industries, all ofCompany’s current footprint, which gave rise to the goodwill recorded. The goodwill iswill not be deductible for tax purposes.


A summary, at fair value, of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the OKSB transaction,Triumph acquisition, as of the acquisition date, is as follows:

(In thousands)Acquired from TriumphFair Value AdjustmentsFair Value
Assets Acquired
Cash and due from banks$7,484 $— $7,484 
Due from banks - time495 — 495 
Investment securities130,571 (1,116)129,455 
Loans acquired702,460 (3,674)698,786 
Allowance for credit losses on loans(12,617)1,525 (11,092)
Premises and equipment2,774 484 3,258 
Goodwill1,550 (1,550)— 
Core deposit intangible— 5,136 5,136 
Other assets12,806 897 13,703 
Total assets acquired$845,523 $1,702 $847,225 
Liabilities Assumed
Deposits:
Noninterest bearing transaction accounts$115,729 $— $115,729 
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits383,434 — 383,434 
Time deposits219,477 1,094 220,571 
Total deposits718,640 1,094 719,734 
Other borrowings2,854 — 2,854 
Subordinated debentures30,700 — 30,700 
Accrued interest and other liabilities2,882 455 3,337 
Total liabilities assumed755,076 1,549 756,625 
Equity90,446 (90,446)— 
Total equity assumed90,446 (90,446)— 
Total liabilities and equity assumed$845,522 $(88,897)$756,625 
Net assets acquired90,600 
Purchase price130,544 
Goodwill$39,944 
(In thousands) 
Acquired from
OKSB
 
Fair Value
Adjustments
 
Fair
Value
Assets Acquired      
Cash and due from banks $79,517
 $
 $79,517
Investment securities 485,468
 (1,295) 484,173
Loans acquired 2,039,524
 (43,071) 1,996,453
Allowance for loan losses (26,957) 26,957
 
Foreclosed assets 6,284
 (1,127) 5,157
Premises and equipment 21,210
 5,457
 26,667
Bank owned life insurance 28,704
 
 28,704
Goodwill 13,545
 (13,545) 
Core deposit intangible 1,933
 40,191
 42,124
Other intangibles 3,806
 
 3,806
Other assets 33,455
 (9,141) 24,314
Total assets acquired $2,686,489
 $4,426
 $2,690,915
Liabilities Assumed  
  
  
Deposits:  
  
  
Non-interest bearing transaction accounts $485,971
 $
 $485,971
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits 869,252
 
 869,252
Time deposits 613,345
 (2,213) 611,132
Total deposits 1,968,568
 (2,213) 1,966,355
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase 11,256
 
 11,256
Other borrowings 347,000
 
 347,000
Subordinated debentures 46,393
 
 46,393
Accrued interest and other liabilities 17,440
 5,364
 22,804
Total liabilities assumed 2,390,657
 3,151
 2,393,808
Equity 295,832
 (295,832) 
Total equity assumed 295,832
 (295,832) 
Total liabilities and equity assumed $2,686,489
 $(292,681) $2,393,808
Net assets acquired     297,107
Purchase price     526,251
Goodwill     $229,144


During 2018,2022, the Company finalized its analysis of the loans acquired along with other acquired assets and assumed liabilities.liabilities related to Triumph.

The Company’s operating results include the operating results of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities of OKSBTriumph subsequent to the acquisition date.
First Texas BHC, Inc.
On October 19, 2017, the Company completed the acquisition of First Texas BHC, Inc. (“First Texas”) headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Southwest Bank. The Company issued 12,999,840 shares of its common stock valued at approximately $387.1 million as of October 19, 2017, plus $70.0 million in cash in exchange for all outstanding shares of First Texas common stock.



Prior to the acquisition, First Texas, through Southwest Bank, operated 15 banking centers, a trust office and a limited service branch in north Texas and a loan production office in Austin, Texas. Including the effects of the acquisition method accounting adjustments, the Company acquired approximately $2.4 billion in assets, including approximately $2.2 billion in loans (inclusive of loan discounts) and approximately $1.9 billion in deposits. The Company completed the systems conversion and merged Southwest Bank into Simmons Bank in February 2018.
Goodwill of $240.8 million was recorded as a result of the transaction. The acquisition allowed the Company to enter the Texas banking markets and it also strengthened the Company’s specialty product offerings in the area of SBA lending and trust services, all of which gave rise to the goodwill recorded. The goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.

A summary, at fair value, of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the First Texas transaction, as of the acquisition date, is as follows: 
(In thousands) 
Acquired from
First Texas
 
Fair Value
Adjustments
 
Fair
Value
Assets Acquired  
  
  
Cash and due from banks $59,277
 $
 $59,277
Investment securities 81,114
 (596) 80,518
Loans acquired 2,246,212
 (37,834) 2,208,378
Allowance for loan losses (20,864) 20,664
 (200)
Premises and equipment 24,864
 10,123
 34,987
Bank owned life insurance 7,190
 
 7,190
Goodwill 37,227
 (37,227) 
Core deposit intangible 
 7,328
 7,328
Other assets 18,263
 11,485
 29,748
Total assets acquired $2,453,283
 $(26,057) $2,427,226
       
Liabilities Assumed  
  
  
Deposits:  
  
  
Non-interest bearing transaction accounts $74,410
 $
 $74,410
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits 1,683,298
 
 1,683,298
Time deposits 124,233
 (283) 123,950
Total deposits 1,881,941
 (283) 1,881,658
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase 50,000
 
 50,000
Other borrowings 235,000
 
 235,000
Subordinated debentures 30,323
 589
 30,912
Accrued interest and other liabilities 11,727
 1,669
 13,396
Total liabilities assumed 2,208,991
 1,975
 2,210,966
Equity 244,292
 (244,292) 
Total equity assumed 244,292
 (244,292) 
Total liabilities and equity assumed $2,453,283
 $(242,317) $2,210,966
Net assets acquired     216,260
Purchase price     457,103
Goodwill     $240,843

Total acquisition-related costs of $22.5 million, $15.9 million, and $4.5 million were recorded during the years ended 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
During 2018, the Company finalized its analysis of the loans acquired along with other acquired assets and assumed liabilities.
The Company’s operating results include the operating results of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities of First Texas subsequent to the acquisition date.


Hardeman County Investment Company, Inc.
On May 15, 2017, the Company completed the acquisition of Hardeman County Investment Company, Inc. (“Hardeman”), headquartered in Jackson, Tennessee, including its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, First South Bank. The Company issued 1,599,940 shares of its common stock valued at approximately $42.6 million as of May 15, 2017, plus $30.0 million in cash in exchange for all outstanding shares of Hardeman common stock.
Prior to the acquisition, Hardeman conducted banking business through First South Bank from 10 branches located in western Tennessee. Including the effects of the acquisition method accounting adjustments, the Company acquired approximately $462.9 million in assets, including approximately $251.6 million in loans (inclusive of loan discounts) and approximately $389.0 million in deposits. The Company completed the systems conversion and merged First South Bank into Simmons Bank in September 2017. As part of the systems conversion, five existing Simmons Bank and First South Bank branches were consolidated or closed.
Goodwill of $29.4 million was recorded as a result of the transaction. The merger strengthened the Company’s position in the western Tennessee market, and the Company will be able to achieve cost savings by integrating the two companies and combining accounting, data processing, and other administrative functions, all of which gave rise to the goodwill recorded. The goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.

A summary, at fair value, of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Hardeman transaction, as of the acquisition date, is as follows: 
(In thousands) 
Acquired from
Hardeman
 
Fair Value
Adjustments
 
Fair
Value
Assets Acquired  
  
  
Cash and due from banks $8,001
 $
 $8,001
Interest bearing balances due from banks - time 1,984
 
 1,984
Investment securities 170,654
 (285) 170,369
Loans acquired 257,641
 (5,992) 251,649
Allowance for loan losses (2,382) 2,382
 
Foreclosed assets 1,083
 (452) 631
Premises and equipment 9,905
 1,258
 11,163
Bank owned life insurance 7,819
 
 7,819
Goodwill 11,485
 (11,485) 
Core deposit intangible 
 7,840
 7,840
Other intangibles 
 830
 830
Other assets 2,639
 (1) 2,638
Total assets acquired $468,829
 $(5,905) $462,924



(In thousands) 
Acquired from
Hardeman
 
Fair Value
Adjustments
 
Fair
Value
Liabilities Assumed  
  
  
Deposits:  
  
  
Non-interest bearing transaction accounts $76,555
 $
 $76,555
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits 214,872
 
 214,872
Time deposits 97,917
 (368) 97,549
Total deposits 389,344
 (368) 388,976
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase 17,163
 
 17,163
Other borrowings 3,000
 
 3,000
Subordinated debentures 6,702
 
 6,702
Accrued interest and other liabilities 1,891
 1,924
 3,815
Total liabilities assumed 418,100
 1,556
 419,656
Equity 50,729
 (50,729) 
Total equity assumed 50,729
 (50,729) 
Total liabilities and equity assumed $468,829
 $(49,173) $419,656
Net assets acquired     43,268
Purchase price     72,639
Goodwill     $29,371

During 2018, the Company finalized its analysis of the loans acquired along with other acquired assets and assumed liabilities. 
The Company’s operating results include the operating results of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities of Hardeman subsequent to the acquisition date.

The following is a description of the methods used to determine the fair values of significant assets and liabilities presented in the acquisitions above.
 
Cash and due from banks and time deposits due from banks and federal funds sold – The carrying amount of these assets is a reasonable estimate of fair value based on the short-term nature of these assets.

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Investment securities – Investment securities were acquired with an adjustment to fair value based upon quoted market prices if material. Otherwise, the carrying amount of these assets was deemed to be a reasonable estimate of fair value.
 
Loans acquired – Fair values for loans were based on a discounted cash flow methodology that considered factors including the type of loan and related collateral, classification status, fixed or variable interest rate, term of loan and whether or not the loan was amortizing, and current discount rates. The discount rates used for loans are based on current market rates for new originations of comparable loans and include adjustments for liquidity concerns. The discount rate does not include a factor for credit losses as that has been included in the estimated cash flows. Loans were grouped together according to similar characteristics and were treated in the aggregate when applying various valuation techniques. See Note 5, Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses, in the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to purchased financial assets with credit deterioration.

Foreclosed assets – These assets are presented at the estimated present values that management expects to receive when the properties are sold, net of related costs of disposal.
Premises and equipment – Bank premises and equipment were acquired with an adjustment to fair value, which represents the difference between the Company’s current analysis of property and equipment values completed in connection with the acquisition and book value acquired.
 
Bank owned life insurance – Bank owned life insurance is carried at its current cash surrender value, which is the most reasonable estimate of fair value.

Goodwill – The consideration paid as a result of the acquisition exceeded the fair value of the assets acquired, resulting in an intangible asset, goodwill. Goodwill established prior to the acquisitions, if applicable, was written off.
 


Core deposit intangible – This intangible asset represents the value of the relationships that the acquired banks had with their deposit customers. The fair value of this intangible asset was estimated based on a discounted cash flow methodology that gave appropriate consideration to expected customer attrition rates, cost of the deposit base and the net maintenance cost attributable to customer deposits. CoreAny core deposit intangible established prior to the acquisitions, if applicable, was written off.
Other intangibles – These intangible assets represent the value of the relationships that Hardeman had with their insurance customers and Landrum had with their wealth management customers. The fair value of these intangible assets was estimated based on a combination of discounted cash flow methodology and a market valuation approach. Intangible assets for the OKSB and Landrum acquisitions included mortgage servicing rights. Other intangibles established prior to the acquisitions, if applicable, were written off.
 
Other assets – The fair value adjustment results from certain assets whose value was estimated to be more or less than book value, such as certain prepaid assets, receivables and other miscellaneous assets. Otherwise, the carrying amount of these assets was deemed to be a reasonable estimate of fair value.
 
Deposits – The fair values used for the demand and savings deposits that comprise the transaction accounts acquired, by definition equal the amount payable on demand at the acquisition date. The Company performed a fair value analysis of the estimated weighted average interest rate of the certificates of deposits compared to the current market rates and recorded a fair value adjustment for the difference when material.
 
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase – The carrying amount of securities sold under agreement to repurchase is a reasonable estimate of fair value based on the short-term nature of these liabilities.
 
Other borrowings – The fair value of other borrowings is estimated based on borrowing rates currently available to the Company for borrowings with similar terms and maturities.
 
Subordinated debentures – The fair value of subordinated debentures is estimated based on borrowing rates currently available to the Company for borrowings with similar terms and maturities.
 
Accrued interest and other liabilities – The fair value adjustment results from certain liabilities whose value was estimated to be more or less than book value, such as certain accounts payable and other miscellaneous liabilities. The adjustment also establishes a liability for unfunded commitments equal to the fair value of that liability at the date of acquisition. The carrying amount of accrued interest and the remainder of other liabilities was deemed to be a reasonable estimate of fair value.


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NOTE 3: INVESTMENT SECURITIES

Held-to-maturity (“HTM”) securities, which include any security for which the Company has both the positive intent and ability to hold until maturity, are carried at historical cost adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. Premiums and discounts are amortized and accreted, respectively, to interest income using the constant effective yield method over the security’s estimated life. Prepayments are anticipated for mortgage-backed and SBA securities. Premiums on callable securities are amortized to their earliest call date.
Available-for-sale (“AFS”) securities, which include any security for which the Company has no immediate plan to sell but which may be sold in the future, are carried at fair value. Realized gains and losses, based on specifically identified amortized cost of the individual security, are included in other income. Unrealized gains and losses are recorded, net of related income tax effects, in stockholders’ equity, further discussed below. Premiums and discounts are amortized and accreted, respectively, to interest income using the constant effective yield method over the estimated life of the security. Prepayments are anticipated for mortgage-backed and SBA securities. Premiums on callable securities are amortized to their earliest call date.

During the quarters ended June 30, 2022 and September 30, 2021, the Company transferred, at fair value, $1.99 billion and $500.8 million, respectively, of securities from the available-for-sale portfolio to the held-to-maturity portfolio. As of December 31, 2022, the related remaining net unrealized losses of $147.0 million and net unrealized gains of $690,000, respectively, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) will be amortized over the remaining life of the securities. No gains or losses on these securities were recognized at the time of transfer.

The amortized cost, and fair value and allowance for credit losses of investment securities that are classified as held-to-maturity (“HTM”) and available-for-sale (“AFS”)HTM are as follows:
 Years Ended December 31,
 2019 2018
(In thousands)
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
                
Held-to-Maturity 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
U.S. Government agencies$
 $
 $
 $
 $16,990
 $
 $(49) $16,941
Mortgage-backed securities10,796
 71
 (59) 10,808
 13,346
 5
 (412) 12,939
State and political subdivisions27,082
 849
 
 27,931
 256,863
 3,029
 (954) 258,938
Other securities3,049
 67
 
 3,116
 1,995
 17
 
 2,012
Total HTM$40,927
 $987
 $(59) $41,855
 $289,194
 $3,051
 $(1,415) $290,830
                
Available-for-Sale  
  
  
  
  
  
  
U.S. Treasury$449,729
 $112
 $(112) $449,729
 $
 $
 $
 $
U.S. Government agencies194,207
 1,313
 (1,271) 194,249
 157,523
 518
 (3,740) 154,301
Mortgage-backed securities1,738,584
 8,510
 (4,149) 1,742,945
 1,552,487
 3,097
 (32,684) 1,522,900
State and political subdivisions860,539
 20,983
 (998) 880,524
 320,142
 171
 (5,470) 314,843
Other securities185,087
 822
 (18) 185,891
 157,471
 2,251
 (14) 159,708
Total AFS$3,428,146
 $31,740
 $(6,548) $3,453,338
 $2,187,623
 $6,037
 $(41,908) $2,151,752

(In thousands)Amortized CostAllowance
for Credit Losses
Net Carrying AmountGross Unrealized
Gains
Gross Unrealized
(Losses)
Estimated Fair
Value
Held-to-maturity   
December 31, 2022
U.S. Government agencies$448,012 $— $448,012 $— $(102,558)$345,454 
Mortgage-backed securities1,190,781 — 1,190,781 227 (118,960)1,072,048 
State and political subdivisions1,861,102 (110)1,860,992 56 (446,198)1,414,850 
Other securities261,199 (1,278)259,921 — (29,040)230,881 
Total HTM$3,761,094 $(1,388)$3,759,706 $283 $(696,756)$3,063,233 
December 31, 2021
U.S. Government agencies$232,609 $— $232,609 $— $(7,914)$224,695 
Mortgage-backed securities70,342 — 70,342 232 (1,425)69,149 
State and political subdivisions1,210,248 (1,197)1,209,051 6,166 (8,462)1,206,755 
Other securities17,301 (82)17,219 — (440)16,779 
Total HTM$1,530,500 $(1,279)$1,529,221 $6,398 $(18,241)$1,517,378 
Securities with limited marketability, such as stock in the Federal Reserve Bank
Mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”) are commercial MBS, secured by commercial properties, and the FHLB, are carried at cost and are reported as other AFSresidential MBS, generally secured by single-family residential properties. All mortgage-backed securities included in the table above.above were issued by U.S. government agencies or corporations. As of December 31, 2022, HTM MBS consisted of $149.2 million and $1.04 billion of commercial MBS and residential MBS, respectively. As of December 31, 2021, HTM MBS consisted of $4.9 million and $65.5 million of commercial MBS and residential MBS, respectively.
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The amortized cost, fair value and allowance for credit losses of investment securities that are classified as AFS are as follows:
(In thousands)Amortized
Cost
Allowance for Credit LossesGross Unrealized
Gains
Gross Unrealized
(Losses)
Estimated Fair
Value
Available-for-sale
December 31, 2022
U.S. Treasury$2,257 $— $— $(60)$2,197 
U.S. Government agencies191,498 — 103 (7,322)184,279 
Mortgage-backed securities2,809,319 — 20 (266,437)2,542,902 
State and political subdivisions1,056,124 — 250 (185,300)871,074 
Other securities272,215 — — (19,813)252,402 
Total AFS$4,331,413 $— $373 $(478,932)$3,852,854 
December 31, 2021
U.S. Treasury$300 $— $— $— $300 
U.S. Government agencies374,754 — 495 (10,608)364,641 
Mortgage-backed securities4,485,548 — 6,307 (43,239)4,448,616 
State and political subdivisions1,791,097 — 30,556 (1,995)1,819,658 
Other securities479,162 — 6,647 (5,479)480,330 
Total AFS$7,130,861 $— $44,005 $(61,321)$7,113,545 
 
Certain investmentAll mortgage-backed securities are valued at less than their historical cost. Total fair valueincluded in the table above were issued by U.S. government agencies or corporations. As of these investmentsDecember 31, 2022, AFS MBS consisted of $1.07 billion and $1.47 billion of commercial MBS and residential MBS, respectively. As of December 31, 2021, AFS MBS consisted of $1.53 billion and $2.92 billion of commercial MBS and residential MBS, respectively.

Accrued interest receivable on HTM and AFS securities at December 31, 20192022 was $20.7 million and 2018, was $1.3 billion$16.7 million, respectively, and $1.7 billion, which is approximately 36.6% and 70.3%, respectively,included in interest receivable on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company has made the election to exclude all accrued interest receivable from securities from the estimate of the Company’s combined AFS and HTM investment portfolios.credit losses.



The following table shows the gross unrealized losses and fair value ofsummarizes the Company’s AFS investments within an unrealized losses,loss position for which an allowance for credit loss has not been recorded as of December 31, 2022, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at: position:
  Less Than 12 Months 12 Months or More Total
(In thousands) 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
December 31, 2019            
             
Held-to-Maturity  
  
  
  
  
  
Mortgage-backed securities $3,489
 $(30) $2,300
 $(29) $5,789
 $(59)
Total HTM $3,489
 $(30) $2,300
 $(29) $5,789
 $(59)
             
Available-for-Sale  
  
  
  
  
  
U.S. Treasury $299,667
 $(112) $
 $
 $299,667
 $(112)
U.S. Government agencies 14,454
 (130) 86,239
 (1,141) 100,693
 (1,271)
Mortgage-backed securities 405,540
 (1,326) 349,293
 (2,823) 754,833
 (4,149)
State and political subdivisions 111,088
 (975) 2,730
 (23) 113,818
 (998)
Other securities 3,982
 (18) 
 
 3,982
 (18)
Total AFS $834,731
 $(2,561) $438,262
 $(3,987) $1,272,993
 $(6,548)
             
December 31, 2018  
  
  
  
  
  
             
Held-to-Maturity  
  
  
  
  
  
U.S. Government agencies $992
 $(2) $15,948
 $(47) $16,940
 $(49)
Mortgage-backed securities 
 
 12,177
 (412) 12,177
 (412)
State and political subdivisions 39,149
 (208) 50,889
 (746) 90,038
 (954)
Total HTM $40,141
 $(210) $79,014
 $(1,205) $119,155
 $(1,415)
             
Available-for-Sale  
  
  
  
  
  
U.S. Government agencies $26,562
 $(221) $108,636
 $(3,519) $135,198
 $(3,740)
Mortgage-backed securities 163,560
 (1,146) 1,037,679
 (31,538) 1,201,239
 (32,684)
State and political subdivisions 129,075
 (1,406) 132,020
 (4,064) 261,095
 (5,470)
Other securities 65
 (13) 99
 (1) 164
 (14)
Total AFS $319,262
 $(2,786) $1,278,434
 $(39,122) $1,597,696
 $(41,908)

 Less Than 12 Months12 Months or MoreTotal
(In thousands)Estimated
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Estimated
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Estimated
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Available-for-sale      
U.S. Treasury$2,197 $(60)$— $— $2,197 $(60)
U.S. Government agencies101,138 (3,263)66,970 (4,059)168,108 (7,322)
Mortgage-backed securities653,288 (27,437)1,880,277 (239,000)2,533,565 (266,437)
State and political subdivisions147,989 (24,740)692,478 (160,560)840,467 (185,300)
Other securities176,505 (11,401)75,439 (8,412)251,944 (19,813)
Total AFS$1,081,117 $(66,901)$2,715,164 $(412,031)$3,796,281 $(478,932)
The declines reflected
As of December 31, 2022, the Company’s investment portfolio included $3.85 billion of AFS securities, of which $3.80 billion, or 98.5%, were in an unrealized loss position that are not deemed to have credit losses. A portion of the preceding table primarily resulted fromunrealized losses were related to the Company’s MBS, which are issued and guaranteed by U.S. government-sponsored entities and agencies, and the Company’s state and political subdivision securities, specifically investments in insured fixed rate municipal bonds for thesewhich the issuers continue to make timely principal and interest payments under the contractual terms of the securities.

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Furthermore, the decline in fair value for each of the above AFS securities is attributable to the rates for those investments yielding less than current market rates. Based on evaluationManagement does not believe any of available evidence, managementthe securities are impaired due to reasons of credit quality. Management believes the declines in fair value for thesethe securities are temporary. Management does not have the intent to sell thesethe securities, and management believes it is more likely than not the Company will not have to sell thesethe securities before recovery of their amortized cost basis less any current periodbasis.

Allowance for Credit Losses

All MBS held by the Company are issued by U.S. government-sponsored entities and agencies. These securities are either explicitly or implicitly guaranteed by the U.S. government, are highly rated by major rating agencies and have a long history of no credit losses. Accordingly, no allowance for credit losses has been recorded for these securities.

DeclinesRegarding securities issued by state and political subdivisions and other HTM securities, management considers (i) issuer bond ratings, (ii) historical loss rates for given bond ratings, (iii) whether issuers continue to make timely principal and interest payments under the contractual terms of the securities, (iv) internal forecasts, (v) whether or not such securities provide insurance or other credit enhancement or are pre-refunded by the issuers.

The following table details activity in the fair value ofallowance for credit losses by investment security type for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 on the Company’s HTM and AFS securities below their cost that are deemed to be other than temporary are reflected in earnings as realized losses. In estimating other-than-temporary impairment losses, management considers, among other things, (i)held.

(In thousands)State and Political SubdivisionsOther SecuritiesTotal
December 31, 2022
Held-to-maturity
Beginning balance, January 1, 2022$1,197 $82 $1,279 
Provision for credit loss expense— — — 
Net increase (decrease) in allowance on previously impaired securities(1,180)1,180 — 
Recoveries93 16 109 
Ending balance, December 31, 2022$110 $1,278 $1,388 
December 31, 2021
Held-to-maturity
Beginning balance, January 1, 2021$2,307 $608 $2,915 
Provision for credit loss expense(1,110)(73)(1,183)
Securities charged-off— (600)(600)
Recoveries— 147 147 
Ending balance, December 31, 2021$1,197 $82 $1,279 
Available-for-sale
Beginning balance, January 1, 2021$217 $95 $312 
Reduction due to sales— (11)(11)
Net decrease in allowance on previously impaired securities(217)(84)(301)
Ending balance, December 31, 2021$— $— $— 

Based upon the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (ii) the financial condition and near-term prospectsCompany’s analysis of the issuer,underlying risk characteristics of its AFS portfolio, including credit ratings and (iii)other qualitative factors, as previously discussed, there was no provision for credit losses related to AFS securities recorded during the intent and ability oftwelve months ended December 31, 2022. During the Companyyear ended December 31, 2021, the provision for credit losses related to retain its investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value.AFS securities was reduced by $312,000.

Management has the ability and intent to hold the securities classified as HTM until they mature, at which time the Company expects to receive full value


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The following table summarizes bond ratings for the securities. Furthermore,Company’s HTM portfolio issued by state and political subdivisions and other securities as of December 31, 2019, management also had2022:
State and Political Subdivisions
(In thousands)Not Guaranteed or Pre-RefundedOther Credit Enhancement or InsurancePre-RefundedTotalOther Securities
Aaa/AAA$183,096 $284,142 $— $467,238 $— 
Aa/AA665,150 504,783 — 1,169,933 — 
A45,471 157,439 — 202,910 173,142 
Baa/BBB— 5,938 — 5,938 53,573 
Not Rated8,215 6,868 — 15,083 34,484 
Total$901,932 $959,170 $— $1,861,102 $261,199 

Historical loss rates associated with securities having similar grades as those in the abilityCompany’s portfolio have generally not been significant. Pre-refunded securities, if any, have been defeased by the issuer and intentare fully secured by cash and/or U.S. Treasury securities held in escrow for payment to hold the securities classified as AFS for a period of time sufficient for a recovery of cost. The unrealized losses are largely due


to increases in market interest rates over the yields available at the timeholders when the underlying securities were purchased. The fair value is expected to recover as the bonds approach their maturity date or repricing date or if market yields for such investments decline. Management does not believe anycall dates of the securities are impaired duereached. Securities with other credit enhancement or insurance continue to reasonsmake timely principal and interest payments under the contractual terms of the securities. Accordingly, no allowance for credit losses has been recorded for these securities as there is no current expectation of credit quality. Accordingly, as of December 31, 2019, management believes the impairments detailed in the table above are temporary. Should the impairment of any oflosses related to these securities become other than temporary, the cost basis of the investment will be reduced and the resulting loss recognized in net income in the period the other-than-temporary impairment is identified.
securities.
Income earned on securities for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, is as follows: 
(In thousands) 2019 2018 2017
Taxable:  
  
  
Held-to-maturity $1,207
 $2,157
 $2,521
Available-for-sale 45,934
 40,926
 25,996
       
Non-taxable:      
Held-to-maturity 1,412
 7,424
 8,693
Available-for-sale 18,345
 6,811
 2,905
Total $66,898
 $57,318
 $40,115

(In thousands)202220212020
Taxable:   
Held-to-maturity$33,778 $4,208 $985 
Available-for-sale60,659 54,768 34,054 
Non-taxable:
Held-to-maturity36,516 16,047 919 
Available-for-sale27,250 36,670 28,575 
Total$158,203 $111,693 $64,533 
 
The amortized cost and estimated fair value by maturity of securities are shown in the following table.table as of December 31, 2022. Securities are classified according to their contractual maturities without consideration of principal amortization, potential prepayments or call options. Accordingly, actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities. 
  Held-to-Maturity Available-for-Sale
(In thousands) 
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair
Value
One year or less $4,897
 $4,919
 $494,432
 $494,338
After one through five years 15,972
 16,325
 72,949
 73,370
After five through ten years 7,387
 7,928
 129,088
 131,267
After ten years 1,875
 1,875
 825,155
 842,798
Securities not due on a single maturity date 10,796
 10,808
 1,738,584
 1,742,945
Other securities (no maturity) 
 
 167,938
 168,620
Total $40,927
 $41,855
 $3,428,146
 $3,453,338

 Held-to-MaturityAvailable-for-Sale
(In thousands)Amortized
Cost
Fair
Value
Amortized
Cost
Fair
Value
One year or less$2,639 $2,635 $12,368 $12,169 
After one through five years7,822 7,660 184,524 176,836 
After five through ten years352,450 310,335 258,451 238,768 
After ten years2,207,402 1,670,555 1,066,291 881,720 
Securities not due on a single maturity date1,190,781 1,072,048 2,809,319 2,542,901 
Other securities (no maturity)— — 460 460 
Total$3,761,094 $3,063,233 $4,331,413 $3,852,854 
 
Total other short-term investments was $163.7 million as of December 31, 2019. The carrying value, which approximates the fair value, of securities pledged as collateral, to secure public deposits and for other purposes, amounted to $1.7$3.96 billion at December 31, 20192022 and $1.0$3.88 billion at December 31, 2018.2021. 

No securities were sold during 2022, while the Company sold approximately $342.6 million of investment securities during 2021 and approximately $1.70 billion of investment securities during 2020. Securities sold in 2020 were in large part related to efforts by the Company to increase liquidity in response to the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, while the securities sold during 2021 were part of a strategic plan to realize gains on securities with projected calls within the short-term period. The decrease in net gains on the sale and call of securities in 2022 as compared to 2021 and 2020 reflect the rising interest rate environment
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experienced during the current year as compared to 2021 and 2020. There were approximately $13.3$46,000 of gross realized gains and $324,000 of gross realized losses from the call of securities during the year ended December 31, 2022. There were approximately $15.9 million of gross realized gains and $4,000$422,000 of gross realized losses from the sale of securities during the year ended December 31, 2019. The gross realized gains recognized during 2019 were primarily due to adjustments made to the bond portfolio during the first quarter based upon projected cash flow changes and, during the third quarter the Company sold approximately $89 million of bonds as part of a plan to rebalance its investment portfolio resulting in a net gain on the sale of securities of $7.3 million.2021. There were approximately $65,000$54.8 million of gross realized gains and $4,000$15,000 of gross realized losses from the sale of securities during the year ended December 31, 2018. There were approximately $2.4 million of gross realized gains and $1.3 million of gross realized losses from the sale of securities during the year ended December 31, 2017.2020. The income tax expense/benefit related to security gains/losses was 26.135% of the gross amounts in 20192022, 2021 and 2018 and 39.225% in 2017.2020.

The stateCompany has entered into various fair value hedging transactions to mitigate the impact of changing interest rates on the fair value of AFS securities. See Note 21, Derivative Instruments, for disclosure of the gains and political subdivision debt obligations are predominately rated bonds, primarily issued in states in which we are located,losses recognized on derivative instruments and are evaluated on an ongoing basis.the cumulative fair value hedging adjustments to the carrying amount of the hedged securities.




NOTE 4: OTHER ASSETS AND OTHER LIABILITIES HELD FOR SALE

Texas Branch Sale

On December 20, 2019, the Company, through Simmons Bank entered into a Branch Purchase and Assumption Agreement (the “Spirit Branch Agreement”) with Spirit of Texas Bank, SSB (“Spirit”Spirit Bank”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Spirit.

On February 28, 2020, Spirit Bank completed its purchase of Texas Bancshares, Inc., pursuant to which Spirit will purchase certain assets and assumeassumption of certain liabilities (the “Texas(“Texas Branch Sale”) associated with five Simmons Bank locations in Austin, San Antonio, and Tilden, Texas (collectively, the “Texas Branches”).

Pursuant to the terms of the Spirit Branch Agreement, Spirit has agreed to assumeBank assumed certain deposit liabilities and to acquireacquired certain loans, as well as cash, real property, personal property and other fixed assets associated with the Texas Branches. The combined loan and deposit balances of the Texas Branches (excluding certain loans and deposits not subject to the Texas Branch Sale) as of December 31, 2019 were approximately $259.9$260.3 million and $159.9$139.5 million, respectively.

Pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions of the Spirit Agreement, the purchase price for the transaction will be computed as the difference of (A) the sum of (i) the aggregate balance of the deposits to be assumed, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, (ii) the amount of certain accrued expenses, and (iii) the amount of certain other liabilities to be assumed, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, and (B) the sum of (i) the aggregate outstanding principal balance of the loans to be acquired, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, (ii) the aggregate amount of cash on hand, (iii) the amount of certain prepaid expenses, (iv) the appraised value of the real property to be acquired, and (v) the aggregate net book value of the personal property and ATMs to be acquired. The purchase price is subject to a customary post-closing adjustment based on the delivery within 30 calendar days following the closing date of a final closing statement setting forth the purchase price and any necessary adjustment payment amount. Additionally, Spirit will pay a premium to Simmons Bank in an amount equal to the average aggregate daily closing balance of the deposits to be acquired for the 15-business day period prior to the closing date multiplied by 5%.

The completion of the TexasColorado Branch Sale is subject to certain customary closing conditions. Subject to the satisfaction of such conditions, Spirit and Simmons Bank expect to close the Texas Branch Sale on February 28, 2020.

Pending Branch Sale (Subsequent Event)

On February 10, 2020, the Company, through Simmons Bank entered into a Branch Purchase and Assumption Agreement (the “First Western Agreement”) with First Western Trust Bank (“First Western”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Western Financial, Inc., pursuant to which

On May 18, 2020, First Western willcompleted its purchase of certain assets and assumeassumption of certain liabilities (the “Colorado(“Colorado Branch Sale”) associated with four Simmons Bank locations in Denver, Englewood, Highlands Ranch, and Lone Tree, Colorado (collectively, the “Colorado Branches”).
Pursuant to the terms of the First Western Agreement, First Western has agreed to assumeassumed certain deposit liabilities and to acquireacquired certain loans, as well as cash, personal property and other fixed assets associated with the Colorado Branches. The combined loan and deposit balances of the Colorado Branches (excludingwere $120.4 million and $63.1 million, respectively.

During 2020, the Company recognized a combined gain on sale of $8.1 million related to the Texas Branch Sale and Colorado Branch Sale.

Illinois Branch Sale

On November 30, 2020, Simmons Bank entered into a Branch Purchase and Assumption Agreement (the “Citizens Equity Agreement”) with Citizens Equity First Credit Union (“CEFCU”).

On March 12, 2021, CEFCU completed its purchase of certain assets and assumption of certain liabilities (the “Illinois Branch Sale”) associated with four Simmons Bank locations in the Metro East area of Southern Illinois, near St. Louis (collectively, the “Illinois Branches”). Pursuant to the terms of the Citizens Equity Agreement, CEFCU assumed certain deposit liabilities and acquired certain loans, as well as cash, personal property and deposits not subjectother fixed assets associated with the Illinois Branches. The loan and deposit balances of the Illinois Branches were $354,000 and $137.9 million, respectively.

During 2021, the Company recognized a gain on sale of $5.3 million related to the Colorado Branch Sale)Illinois Branches.

Spirit Acquisition

In connection with the acquisition of Spirit, the Company acquired a portfolio of loans which were identified as held for sale by the acquired bank prior to the completion of the acquisition. These loans were valued at $35.2 million, net of fair value discounts, at the date of acquisition with no remaining balance as of December 31, 2019,2022.

As of December 31, 2022, there were approximately $105 millionno outstanding other assets and $58 million, respectively.
Pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions of the First Western Agreement, the purchase price for the transaction will be computed as the difference of (A) the sum of (i) the aggregate balance of the deposits to be assumed, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, (ii) the amount of certain accrued expenses, and (iii) the amount of certain other liabilities to be assumed, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, and (B) the sum of (i) the aggregate outstanding principal balance of the loans to be acquired, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, (ii) the aggregate amount of cash on hand, (iii) the amount of certain prepaid expenses, and (iv) the aggregate net book value of the personal property and ATMs to be acquired. The purchase price is subject to a customary post-closing adjustment based on the delivery within 30 calendar days following the closing date of a final closing statement setting forth the purchase price and any necessary adjustment payment amount. Additionally, First Western will pay a premium to Simmons Bank in an amount equal to the average aggregate daily closing balance of the deposits to be acquiredheld for the 30-business day period prior to the closing date multiplied by the Applicable Percentage. The “Applicable Percentage” equals (1) if the Colorado Branch Sale is completed on or before May 31, 2020, 6.06%, (2) if the Colorado Branch Sale is completed after May 31, 2020, but on or before July 31, 2020, 7.06%, or (3) if the Colorado Branch Sale is completed after July 31, 2020, 8.06%.
The completion of the Colorado Branch Sale is subject to certain customary closing conditions. Subject to the satisfaction of such conditions, First Western and Simmons Bank expect to close the Colorado Branch Sale in the second or third quarter of 2020.

sale.
95
94




NOTE 5: LOANS AND ALLOWANCE FOR LOANCREDIT LOSSES

At December 31, 2019,2022, the Company’s loan portfolio was $14.43$16.14 billion, compared to $11.72$12.01 billion at December 31, 2018.2021. The various categories of loans are summarized as follows: 
(In thousands)20222021
Consumer:  
Credit cards$196,928 $187,052 
Other consumer152,882 168,318 
Total consumer349,810 355,370 
Real estate:
Construction and development2,566,649 1,326,371 
Single family residential2,546,115 2,101,975 
Other commercial7,468,498 5,738,904 
Total real estate12,581,262 9,167,250 
Commercial:
Commercial2,632,290 1,992,043 
Agricultural205,623 168,717 
Total commercial2,837,913 2,160,760 
Other373,139 329,123 
Total loans$16,142,124 $12,012,503 
(In thousands) 2019 2018
Consumer:  
  
Credit cards $204,802
 $204,173
Other consumer 191,946
 201,297
Total consumer 396,748
 405,470
Real estate:    
Construction and development 1,760,894
 1,300,723
Single family residential 1,444,620
 1,440,443
Other commercial 3,678,908
 3,225,287
Total real estate 6,884,422
 5,966,453
Commercial:    
Commercial 1,909,796
 1,774,909
Agricultural 163,396
 164,514
Total commercial 2,073,192
 1,939,423
Other 275,714
 119,042
Loans 9,630,076
 8,430,388
Loans acquired, net of discount and allowance (1)
 4,795,184
 3,292,783
Total loans $14,425,260
 $11,723,171

_________________________                The above table presents total loans at amortized cost. The difference between amortized cost and unpaid principal balance is primarily premiums and discounts associated with acquisition date fair value adjustments on acquired loans as well as net deferred origination fees totaling $26.4 million and $21.5 million at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
(1)    See Note 6, Loans Acquired, for segregation
Accrued interest on loans, which is excluded from the amortized cost of loans acquired by loan class.held for investment, totaled $65.4 million and $39.8 million at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and is included in interest receivable on the consolidated balance sheets.

Loan Origination/Risk Management – The Company seeks to manage its credit risk by diversifying its loan portfolio, determining that borrowers have adequate sources of cash flow for loan repayment without liquidation of collateral; obtaining and monitoring collateral; and providing an adequate allowance for loanscredit losses by regularly reviewing loans through the internal loan review process. The loan portfolio is diversified by borrower, purpose and industry. The Company seeks to use diversification within the loan portfolio to reduce its credit risk, thereby minimizing the adverse impact on the portfolio if weaknesses develop in either the economy or a particular segment of borrowers. Collateral requirements are based on credit assessments of borrowers and may be used to recover the debt in case of default. Furthermore, a factor that influenced the Company’s judgment regarding the allowance for loan losses consists of a nine-year historical loss average segregated by each primary loan sector. On an annual basis, historical loss rates are calculated for each sector.
 
Consumer – The consumer loan portfolio consists of credit card loans and other consumer loans. Credit card loans are diversified by geographic region to reduce credit risk and minimize any adverse impact on the portfolio. Although they are regularly reviewed to facilitate the identification and monitoring of creditworthiness, credit card loans are unsecured loans, making them more susceptible to be impacted by economic downturns resulting in increasing unemployment. Other consumer loans include direct and indirect installment loans and account overdrafts. Loans in this portfolio segment are sensitive to unemployment and other key consumer economic measures.
 
Real estate – The real estate loan portfolio consists of construction and development loans (“C&D”), single family residential loans and commercial loans. Construction and development loans (“C&D”)&D and commercial real estate loans (“CRE”) loans can be particularly sensitive to valuation of real estate. Commercial real estateCRE cycles are inevitable. The long planning and production process for new properties and rapid shifts in business conditions and employment create an inherent tension between supply and demand for commercial properties. While general economic trends often move individual markets in the same direction over time, the timing and magnitude of changes are determined by other forces unique to each market. CRE cycles tend to be local in nature and longer than other credit cycles. Factors influencing the CRE market are traditionally different from those affecting residential real estate markets; thereby making predictions for one market based on the other difficult. Additionally, submarkets within commercial real estateCRE – such as office, industrial, apartment, retail and hotel – also experience different cycles, providing an opportunity to lower the overall risk through diversification across types of CRE loans. Management realizes that local demand and supply conditions will also mean that different geographic areas will experience cycles of different amplitude and length. The Company monitors these loans closely. 

95


Commercial – The commercial loan portfolio includes commercial and agricultural loans, representing loans to commercial customers and farmers for use in normal business or farming operations to finance working capital needs, equipment purchases or other expansion projects. Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans are also included in the commercial loan portfolio. Collection risk in this portfolio is driven by the creditworthiness of the underlying borrowers, particularly cash flow from customers’ business or farming operations. The Company continues its efforts to keep loan terms short, reducing the negative impact of upward movement in interest rates. Term loans are generally set up with one or three year balloons, and the Company has instituted a pricing mechanism for commercial loans. It is standard practice to require personal guaranties on commercial loans for closely-held or limited liability entities.

Paycheck Protection Program Loans - The Company originated loans pursuant to multiple PPP appropriations of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act which provided 100% federally guaranteed loans for small businesses to cover up to 24 weeks of payroll costs and assist with mortgage interest, rent and utilities. Notably, these small business loans may be forgiven by the SBA if borrowers maintain their payrolls and satisfy certain other conditions. PPP loans have a zero percent risk-weight for regulatory capital ratios. As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, the total outstanding balance of PPP loans was $8.9 million and $116.7 million, respectively.

Other – The other loan portfolio includes mortgage warehouse loans, representing warehouse lines of credit to mortgage originators for the disbursement of newly originated 1-4 family residential loans. Also included in the other loan portfolio are loans to public sector customers, including state and local governments.

Nonaccrual and Past Due Loans – Loans are considered past due if the required principal and interest payments have not been received as of the date such payments were due. Loans are placed on nonaccrual status when, in management’s opinion, the borrower may be unable to meet payment obligations as they become due, as well as when required by regulatory provisions. Loans may be placed on nonaccrual status regardless of whether or not such loans are considered past due. When interest accrual is discontinued, all unpaid accrued interest is reversed. Interest income is subsequently recognized only to the extent cash payments are received in excess of principal due. Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.

NonaccrualThe amortized cost basis of nonaccrual loans excluding loans acquired, at December 31, 2019 and 2018, segregated by class of loans are as follows: 

(In thousands) 2019 2018
Consumer:  
  
Credit cards $382
 $296
Other consumer 1,378
 2,159
Total consumer 1,760
 2,455
Real estate:    
Construction and development 4,538
 1,269
Single family residential 18,102
 11,939
Other commercial 9,361
 7,205
Total real estate 32,001
 20,413
Commercial:    
Commercial 36,575
 10,049
Agricultural 500
 1,284
Total commercial 37,075
 11,333
Total $70,836
 $34,201


(In thousands)20222021
Consumer:  
Credit cards$349 $377 
Other consumer433 381 
Total consumer782 758 
Real estate:
Construction and development2,799 2,296 
Single family residential22,319 19,268 
Other commercial14,998 26,953 
Total real estate40,116 48,517 
Commercial:
Commercial17,356 18,774 
Agricultural177 152 
Total commercial17,533 18,926 
Other
Total$58,434 $68,204 


As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, nonaccrual loans for which there was no related allowance for credit losses had an amortized cost of $16.9 million and $14.5 million, respectively. These loans are individually assessed and do not hold an allowance due to being adequately collateralized under the collateral-dependent valuation method.



96


An age analysis of the amortized cost basis of past due loans, excludingincluding nonaccrual loans, acquired, segregated by class of loans is as follows:

(In thousands) 
Gross
30-89 Days
Past Due
 
90 Days
or More
Past Due
 
Total
Past Due
 Current 
Total
Loans
 
90 Days
Past Due &
Accruing
December 31, 2019  
  
  
  
  
  
Consumer:  
  
  
  
  
  
Credit cards $848
 $641
 $1,489
 $203,313
 $204,802
 $259
Other consumer 4,057
 595
 4,652
 187,294
 191,946
 
Total consumer 4,905
 1,236
 6,141
 390,607
 396,748
 259
Real estate:            
Construction and development 4,968
 605
 5,573
 1,755,321
 1,760,894
 
Single family residential 13,414
 8,769
 22,183
 1,422,437
 1,444,620
 
Other commercial 4,302
 3,969
 8,271
 3,670,637
 3,678,908
 
Total real estate 22,684
 13,343
 36,027
 6,848,395
 6,884,422
 
Commercial:            
Commercial 6,253
 12,174
 18,427
 1,891,369
 1,909,796
 
Agricultural 207
 450
 657
 162,739
 163,396
 
Total commercial 6,460
 12,624
 19,084
 2,054,108
 2,073,192
 
Other 
 
 
 275,714
 275,714
 
Total $34,049
 $27,203
 $61,252
 $9,568,824
 $9,630,076
 $259
             
December 31, 2018  
  
  
  
  
  
Consumer:  
  
  
  
  
  
Credit cards $1,033
 $506
 $1,539
 $202,634
 $204,173
 $209
Other consumer 4,264
 896
 5,160
 196,137
 201,297
 4
Total consumer 5,297
 1,402
 6,699
 398,771
 405,470
 213
Real estate:            
Construction and development 533
 308
 841
 1,299,882
 1,300,723
 
Single family residential 7,769
 4,127
 11,896
 1,428,547
 1,440,443
 
Other commercial 3,379
 2,773
 6,152
 3,219,135
 3,225,287
 
Total real estate 11,681
 7,208
 18,889
 5,947,564
 5,966,453
 
Commercial:            
Commercial 4,472
 5,105
 9,577
 1,765,332
 1,774,909
 11
Agricultural 467
 1,055
 1,522
 162,992
 164,514
 
Total commercial 4,939
 6,160
 11,099
 1,928,324
 1,939,423
 11
Other 
 
 
 119,042
 119,042
 
Total $21,917
 $14,770
 $36,687
 $8,393,701
 $8,430,388
 $224

(In thousands)Gross
30-89 Days
Past Due
90 Days
or More
Past Due
Total
Past Due
CurrentTotal
Loans
90 Days
Past Due &
Accruing
December 31, 2022      
Consumer:      
Credit cards$1,297 $409 $1,706 $195,222 $196,928 $225 
Other consumer852 214 1,066 151,816 152,882 — 
Total consumer2,149 623 2,772 347,038 349,810 225 
Real estate:
Construction and development4,677 443 5,120 2,561,529 2,566,649 — 
Single family residential23,625 11,075 34,700 2,511,415 2,546,115 106 
Other commercial2,759 7,100 9,859 7,458,639 7,468,498 — 
Total real estate31,061 18,618 49,679 12,531,583 12,581,262 106 
Commercial:
Commercial5,034 7,575 12,609 2,619,681 2,632,290 176 
Agricultural111 67 178 205,445 205,623 — 
Total commercial5,145 7,642 12,787 2,825,126 2,837,913 176 
Other61 64 373,075 373,139 — 
Total$38,416 $26,886 $65,302 $16,076,822 $16,142,124 $507 
December 31, 2021      
Consumer:      
Credit cards$847 $413 $1,260 $185,792 $187,052 $247 
Other consumer1,149 130 1,279 167,039 168,318 — 
Total consumer1,996 543 2,539 352,831 355,370 247 
Real estate:
Construction and development114 504 618 1,325,753 1,326,371 — 
Single family residential11,313 9,398 20,711 2,081,264 2,101,975 102 
Other commercial2,474 12,268 14,742 5,724,162 5,738,904 — 
Total real estate13,901 22,170 36,071 9,131,179 9,167,250 102 
Commercial:
Commercial4,812 10,074 14,886 1,977,157 1,992,043 — 
Agricultural13 117 130 168,587 168,717 — 
Total commercial4,825 10,191 15,016 2,145,744 2,160,760 — 
Other— 329,120 329,123 — 
Total$20,722 $32,907 $53,629 $11,958,874 $12,012,503 $349 
 
Impaired Loans – A loan is considered impaired when it is probable that the Company will not receive all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loans, including scheduled principal and interest payments. This includes loans that are delinquent 90 days or more, nonaccrual loans and certain other loans identified by management. Certain other loans identified by management consist of performing loans with specific allocations of the allowance for loan losses. Impaired loans are carried at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s existing rate, or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent.  
Impairment is evaluated in total for smaller-balance loans of a similar nature and on an individual loan basis for other loans. Impaired loans, or portions thereof, are charged-off when deemed uncollectible.



Impaired loans, net of government guarantees and excluding loans acquired, segregated by class of loans, are as follows: 

(In thousands)
Unpaid
Contractual
Principal
Balance
 
Recorded
Investment
With No
Allowance
 
Recorded
Investment
With
Allowance
 
Total
Recorded
Investment
 
Related
Allowance
 
Average
Investment in
Impaired
Loans
 
Interest
Income
Recognized
December 31, 2019 
  
  
  
  
  
  
Consumer: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
Credit cards$382
 $382
 $
 $382
 $
 $373
 $50
Other consumer1,537
 1,378
 
 1,378
 
 1,659
 41
Total consumer1,919
 1,760
 
 1,760
 
 2,032
 91
Real estate:             
Construction and development4,648
 4,466
 72
 4,538
 4
 2,464
 61
Single family residential19,466
 15,139
 2,963
 18,102
 42
 15,470
 382
Other commercial10,645
 4,713
 3,740
 8,453
 694
 9,983
 247
Total real estate34,759
 24,318
 6,775
 31,093
 740
 27,917
 690
Commercial:             
Commercial53,436
 6,582
 28,998
 35,580
 5,007
 28,219
 697
Agricultural525
 383
 116
 499
 
 908
 22
Total commercial53,961
 6,965
 29,114
 36,079
 5,007
 29,127
 719
Total$90,639
 $33,043
 $35,889
 $68,932
 $5,747
 $59,076
 $1,500
              
December 31, 2018 
  
  
  
  
  
  
Consumer: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
Credit cards$296
 $296
 $
 $296
 $
 $266
 $85
Other consumer2,311
 2,159
 
 2,159
 
 3,719
 112
Total consumer2,607
 2,455
 
 2,455
 
 3,985
 197
Real estate:             
Construction and development1,344
 784
 485
 1,269
 211
 1,651
 50
Single family residential12,906
 11,468
 616
 12,084
 36
 13,257
 399
Other commercial8,434
 2,976
 5,458
 8,434
 
 13,608
 410
Total real estate22,684
 15,228
 6,559
 21,787
 247
 28,516
 859
Commercial:             
Commercial10,361
 5,733
 4,628
 10,361
 437
 10,003
 301
Agricultural2,419
 1,180
 
 1,180
 
 1,412
 43
Total commercial12,780
 6,913
 4,628
 11,541
 437
 11,415
 344
Total$38,071
 $24,596
 $11,187
 $35,783
 $684
 $43,916
 $1,400

At December 31, 2019 and 2018, impaired loans, net of government guarantees and excluding loans acquired, totaled $68.9 million and $35.8 million, respectively. Allocations of the allowance for loan losses relative to impaired loans were $5,747,000 and $684,000 at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Approximately $1.5 million, $1.4 million and $1.8 million of interest income was recognized on average impaired loans of $59.1 million, $43.9 million and $50.8 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Interest recognized on impaired loans on a cash basis during 2019, 2018 and 2017 was not material.
Included in certain impaired loan categories are troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”). When the Company restructures a loan to a borrower that is experiencing financial difficulty and grants a concession that it would not otherwise consider, a “troubled debt restructuring” (“TDR”) results and the Company classifies the loan as a TDR. The Company grants various types of concessions, primarily interest rate reduction and/or payment modifications or extensions, with an occasional forgiveness of principal.


Under ASC Topic 310-10-35 – Subsequent Measurement, a TDR is considered to be impaired, and an impairment analysis must be performed. The Company assesses the exposure for each modification, either by collateral discounting or by calculation of the present value of future cash flows, and determines if a specific allocation to the allowance for loan losses is needed.

Once an obligation has been restructured because of such credit problems, it continues to be considered a TDR until paid in full; or, if an obligation yields a market interest rate and no longer has any concession regarding payment amount or amortization, then it is not considered a TDR at the beginning of the calendar year after the year in which the improvement takes place. The Company returns TDRs to accrual status only if (1) all contractual amounts due can reasonably be expected to be repaid within a prudent period, and (2) repayment has been in accordance with the contract for a sustained period, typically at least six months.

97


TDRs are individually evaluated for expected credit losses. The Company assesses the exposure for each modification, either by the fair value of the underlying collateral or the present value of expected cash flows, and determines if a specific allowance for credit losses is needed.

The following table presents a summary of TDRs excluding loans acquired, segregated by class of loans. 

  Accruing TDR Loans Nonaccrual TDR Loans Total TDR Loans
(Dollars in thousands) Number Balance Number Balance Number Balance
December 31, 2019  
  
  
  
  
  
Real estate:  
  
  
  
  
  
Construction and development 
 $
 1
 $72
 1
 $72
Single-family residential 7
 1,151
 12
 671
 19
 1,822
Other commercial 1
 476
 2
 80
 3
 556
Total real estate 8
 1,627
 15
 823
 23
 2,450
Commercial:            
Commercial 4
 2,784
 3
 79
 7
 2,863
Total commercial 4
 2,784
 3
 79
 7
 2,863
Total 12
 $4,411
 18
 $902
 30
 $5,313
             
December 31, 2018  
  
  
  
  
  
Real estate:  
  
  
  
  
  
Construction and development 
 $
 3
 $485
 3
 $485
Single-family residential 6
 230
 10
 616
 16
 846
Other commercial 2
 3,306
 2
 1,027
 4
 4,333
Total real estate 8
 3,536
 15
 2,128
 23
 5,664
Commercial:            
Commercial 4
 2,833
 6
 718
 10
 3,551
Total commercial 4
 2,833
 6
 718
 10
 3,551
Total 12
 $6,369
 21
 $2,846
 33
 $9,215


 Accruing TDR LoansNonaccrual TDR LoansTotal TDR Loans
(Dollars in thousands)NumberBalanceNumberBalanceNumberBalance
December 31, 2022      
Real estate:      
Single-family residential24 $1,849 12 $1,589 36 $3,438 
Other commercial— — — — — — 
Total real estate24 1,849 12 1,589 36 3,438 
Commercial:
Commercial— — 33 33 
Total commercial— — 33 33 
Total24 $1,849 13 $1,622 37 $3,471 
December 31, 2021      
Real estate:      
Single-family residential28 $3,087 14 $1,196 42 $4,283 
Other commercial766 48 814 
Total real estate29 3,853 16 1,244 45 5,097 
Commercial:
Commercial436 1,406 1,842 
Total commercial436 1,406 1,842 
Total31 $4,289 18 $2,650 49 $6,939 


The following table presents loans that were restructured as TDRs during the years ended December 31, 20192022 and 2018, excluding loans acquired,2021 segregated by class of loans.
        Modification Type  
(Dollars in thousands) 
Number of
Loans
 
Balance Prior
to TDR
 Balance at December 31, 
Change in
Maturity
Date
 
Change in
Rate
 
Financial Impact
on Date of
Restructure
Year Ended December 31, 2019  
  
  
  
  
  
Real estate: 

 

 

 

 

 

Single-family residential 4
 $997
 $996
 $996
 $
 $
Total real estate 4
 997
 996
 996
 
 
Total 4
 $997
 $996
 $996
 $
 $
             
Year Ended December 31, 2018  
  
  
  
  
  
Consumer:            
Other consumer 1
 $91
 $91
 $91
 $
 $
Total consumer 1
 91
 91
 91
 
 
Real estate:  
  
  
  
  
  
Construction and development 1
 99
 98
 98
 
 
Single-family residential 1
 61
 62
 62
 
 
Other commercial 2
 392
 390
 390
 
 212
Total real estate 4
 552
 550
 550
 
 212
Commercial: 

 

 

 

 

 

Commercial 3
 2,363
 2,358
 2,358
 
 190
Total commercial 3
 2,363
 2,358
 2,358
 
 190
Total 8
 $3,006
 $2,999
 $2,999
 $
 $402

    Modification Type 
(Dollars in thousands)Number of
Loans
Balance Prior
to TDR
Balance at December 31,Change in
Maturity
Date
Change in
Rate
Financial Impact
on Date of
Restructure
Year Ended December 31, 2022      
Real estate:
Single-family residential$760 $730 $— $730 $— 
Other commercial— — — — — — 
Total real estate$760 $730 $— $730 $— 
Year Ended December 31, 2021      
Real estate:      
Single-family residential$274 $197 $— $197 $— 
Other commercial784 766 — 766 — 
Total real estate$1,058 $963 $— $963 $— 

98


During the year ended December 31, 2019,2022, the Company modified 4four loans with a total recorded investment of $997,000$760,000 prior to modification which were deemed troubled debt restructuring. The restructured loans were modified by deferring amortized principal payments, changing the maturity datedates and requiring interest-only payments for a period of up to 12 months. ANo specific reserve was not determined necessary for these loans basedas of December 31, 2022. Additionally, there was no immediate financial impact from the restructuring of these loans as it was not considered necessary to charge-off interest or principal on the date of restructure. During the year ended December 31, 2022, fifteen of the previously restructured loans with prior balances of $3,169,776 were paid off.
During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company modified four loans with a recorded investment of $1,058,000 prior to modification which were deemed troubled debt restructuring. The restructured loans were modified by deferring amortized principal payments, changing the maturity dates and requiring interest-only payments for a period of up to 12 months. Based upon the fair value of the collateral.collateral, a specific reserve of $5,129 was determined as necessary for these loans as of December 31, 2021. Also, there was no immediate financial impact from the restructuring of these loans, as it was not considered necessary to charge-off interest or principal on the date of restructure. During the year ended December 31, 2019, 32021, nine of the previously restructured loans with prior balances of $81,600 were paid off.
During year ended December 31, 2018, the Company modified 8 loans with a total recorded investment of $3.0 million prior to modification which were deemed troubled debt restructuring. The restructured loans were modified by deferring amortized principal payments, changing the maturity date and requiring interest-only payments for a period of up to 12 months. Based upon the fair value of the collateral, a specific reserve of $402,000 was determined necessary for these loans. Also, there was no immediate financial impact from the restructuring of these loans, as it was not considered necessary to charge-off interest or principal on the date of restructure. During the year ended December 31, 2018, 7 of the previously restructured loans with prior balances of $655,000$1,002,874 were paid off.
 
There were 4 loans, consistingwas one loan with an outstanding balance of commercial and real estate construction loans,$7,800 considered TDRsa TDR for which a payment default occurred during the year ended December 31, 2019. The Company charged off approximately $552,0002022. During the year ended December 31, 2021, there were no loans considered TDRs for these loans.which a payment default occurred. The Company defines a payment default as a payment received more than 90 days after its due date.
 
During the year ended December 31, 2018, there were 2 commercial real estate loans for which a payment default occurred that had been modified as a TDR within 12 months or less of the payment default. A charge off of approximately $92,400 was recorded for these loans and assets valued at $2,169,300 were transferred to OREO. Also, there was 1 single-family residential loan for which a payment default occurred that had been modified as a TDR within 12 months or less of the payment default. A charge off of approximately $26,500 was recorded for this loan.
In addition to the TDRs that occurred during the periods provided in the preceding tables, theThe Company had TDRs with pre-modification loan balances of $2,288,000 at December 31, 2018, for which OREO was received in full or partial satisfaction of


the loans. There were 0no TDRs with pre-modification loan balances for which OREO was received in full or partial satisfaction of the loans during the yearyears ended December 31, 2019.2022 and 2021. At December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, the Company had $5,789,000$3,009,000 and $3,899,000,$1,806,000, respectively, of consumer mortgage loans secured by residential real estate properties for which formal foreclosure proceedings are in process. At December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, the Company had $4,458,000$853,000 and $3,530,000,$831,000, respectively, of OREO secured by residential real estate properties.

Credit Quality 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 rating of commercial and real estate loans, (ii) the level of classified commercial and real estate loans, (iii) net charge-offs, (iv) non-performing loans (see details above) and (v) the general economic conditions inof the States of Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas.Company’s local markets.

The Company utilizes a risk rating matrix to assign a risk rate to each of its commercial and real estate loans. LoansRisk ratings are ratedupdated on a scale of 1an ongoing basis and are subject to 8.change by continuous loan monitoring processes including lending management monitoring, executive management and board committee oversight, and independent credit review. A description of the general characteristics of the 8 risk ratings is as follows:
 
Risk Rate 1 – Pass (Excellent) – This category includes loans which are virtually free of credit risk. Borrowers in this category represent the highest credit quality and greatest financial strength.
Pass (Good) - Loans under this category possess a nominal risk of default. This category includes borrowers with strong financial strength and superior financial ratios and trends. These loans are generally fully secured by cash or equivalents (other than those rated “excellent”).
Pass (Acceptable – Average) - Loans in this category are considered to possess a normal level of risk. Borrowers in this category have satisfactory financial strength and adequate cash flow coverage to service debt requirements. If secured, the perfected collateral should be of acceptable quality and within established borrowing parameters.
Pass (Monitor) - Loans in the Watch (Monitor) category exhibit an overall acceptable level of risk, but that risk may be increased by certain conditions, which represent “red flags”. These “red flags” require a higher level of supervision or monitoring than the normal “Pass” rated credit. The borrower may be experiencing these conditions for the first time, or it may be recovering from weakness, which at one time justified a higher rating. These conditions may include: weaknesses in financial trends; marginal cash flow; one-time negative operating results; non-compliance with policy or borrowing agreements; poor diversity in operations; lack of adequate monitoring information or lender supervision; questionable management ability/stability.

99


Special Mention - A loan in this category has potential weaknesses that deserve management’s close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the asset or in the institution’s credit position at some future date. Special Mention loans are not adversely classified (although they are “criticized”) and do not expose an institution to sufficient risk to warrant adverse classification. Borrowers may be experiencing adverse operating trends or an ill-proportioned balance sheet. Non-financial characteristics of a Special Mention rating may include management problems, pending litigation, a non-existent or ineffective loan agreement or other material structural weakness, and/or other significant deviation from prudent lending practices.
– This category includes loans which are virtually free of credit risk. Borrowers in this category represent the highest credit quality and greatest financial strength.
Risk Rate 2 – Pass (Good) - Loans under this category possess a nominal risk of default. This category includes borrowers with strong financial strength and superior financial ratios and trends. These loans are generally fully secured by cash or equivalents (other than those rated “excellent”).
Risk Rate 3 – Pass (Acceptable – Average) - Loans in this category are considered to possess a normal level of risk. Borrowers in this category have satisfactory financial strength and adequate cash flow coverage to service debt requirements. If secured, the perfected collateral should be of acceptable quality and within established borrowing parameters.
Risk Rate 4 – Pass (Monitor) - Loans in the Watch (Monitor) category exhibit an overall acceptable level of risk, but that risk may be increased by certain conditions, which represent “red flags”. These “red flags” require a higher level of supervision or monitoring than the normal “Pass” rated credit. The borrower may be experiencing these conditions for the first time, or it may be recovering from weakness, which at one time justified a higher rating. These conditions may include: weaknesses in financial trends; marginal cash flow; one-time negative operating results; non-compliance with policy or borrowing agreements; poor diversity in operations; lack of adequate monitoring information or lender supervision; questionable management ability/stability.
Risk Rate 5 – Special Mention - A loan in this category has potential weaknesses that deserve management’s close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the asset or in the institution’s credit position at some future date. Special Mention loans are not adversely classified (although they are “criticized”) and do not expose an institution to sufficient risk to warrant adverse classification. Borrowers may be experiencing adverse operating trends, or an ill-proportioned balance sheet. Non-financial characteristics of a Special Mention rating may include management problems, pending litigation, a non-existent, or ineffective loan agreement or other material structural weakness, and/or other significant deviation from prudent lending practices.
Risk Rate 6 – Substandard - A Substandard loan is inadequately protected by the current sound worth and paying capacity of the borrower or of the collateral pledged, if any. Loans so classified must have a well-defined weakness, or weaknesses, that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. The loans are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Company will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. This does not imply ultimate loss of the principal, but may involve burdensome administrative expenses and the accompanying cost to carry the loan.
Risk Rate 7 – Doubtful - A loan classified Doubtful has all the weaknesses inherent in a substandard loan except that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full (on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values) highly questionable and improbable. Doubtful borrowers are usually in default, lack adequate liquidity, or capital, and lack the resources necessary to remain an operating entity. The possibility of loss is extremely high, but because of specific pending events that may strengthen the asset, its classification as loss is deferred. Pending factors include: proposed merger or acquisition; liquidation procedures; capital injection; perfection of liens on additional collateral; and refinancing plans. Loans classified as Doubtful are placed on nonaccrual status.
Risk Rate 8 – Loss - Loans classified Loss are considered uncollectible and of such little value that their continuance as bankable assets is not warranted. This classification does not mean that the loans has absolutely no recovery or salvage value, but rather it is not practical or desirable to defer writing off this basically worthless loan, even though partial recovery may be affected in the future. Borrowers in the Loss category are often in bankruptcy, have formally suspended debt repayments, or have otherwise ceased normal business operations. Loans should be classified as Loss and charged-off in the period in which they become uncollectible.


Loans acquired are evaluated using this internal grading system. Loans acquired are evaluated individually and include purchased credit impaired loans of $13.4 million and $4.1 million that are accounted for under ASC Topic 310-30 and are classified as substandard (Risk Rating 6) as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Of the remaining loans acquired and accounted for under ASC Topic 310-20, $103.1 million and $50.4 million were classified (Risk Ratings 6, 7 and 8 – see classified loans discussion below) at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Purchased credit impaired loans are loans that showed evidence of deterioration of credit quality since origination and for which it is probable, at acquisition, that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts contractually owed. Their fair value was initially based onsustain some loss if the estimate of cash flows, both principal and interest, expected to be collected or estimated collateral values if cash flowsdeficiencies are not estimable, discounted at prevailing market ratescorrected. This does not imply ultimate loss of interest. The difference between the undiscounted cash flows expected at acquisitionprincipal, but may involve burdensome administrative expenses and the fairaccompanying cost to carry the loan.
Doubtful - A loan classified Doubtful has all the weaknesses inherent in a substandard loan except that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full (on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values) highly questionable and improbable. Doubtful borrowers are usually in default, lack adequate liquidity or capital, and lack the resources necessary to remain an operating entity. The possibility of loss is extremely high, but because of specific pending events that may strengthen the asset, its classification as loss is deferred. Pending factors include: proposed merger or acquisition; liquidation procedures; capital injection; perfection of liens on additional collateral; and refinancing plans. Loans classified as Doubtful are placed on nonaccrual status.
Loss - Loans classified Loss are considered uncollectible and of such little value at acquisitionthat their continuance as bankable assets is recognizednot warranted. This classification does not mean that the loans has absolutely no recovery or salvage value, but rather it is not practical or desirable to defer writing off this basically worthless loan, even though partial recovery may be affected in the future. Borrowers in the Loss category are often in bankruptcy, have formally suspended debt repayments, or have otherwise ceased normal business operations. Loans should be classified as interest income on a level-yield method overLoss and charged-off in the lifeperiod in which they become uncollectible.
The Company monitors credit quality in the consumer portfolio by delinquency status. The delinquency status of loans is updated daily. A description of the loan. Contractually requireddelinquency credit quality indicators is as follows:

Current - Loans in this category are either current in payments for interest and principal that exceed the undiscounted cash flows expected at acquisitionor are not recognized as a yield adjustment. Increases in expected cash flows subsequent to the initial investment are recognized prospectively through adjustment of the yield on the loan over its remaining life. Decreases in expected cash flows are recognized as impairment.
Classifiedunder 30 days past due. These loans for the Company include loans in Risk Ratings 6, 7 and 8. Loans may be classified, but not considered impaired, due to one of the following reasons: (1) The Company has established minimum dollar amount thresholds for loan impairment testing. Loans rated 6 – 8 that fall under the threshold amount are not tested for impairment and therefore are not included in impaired loans.  (2) Of the loans that are above the threshold amount and tested for impairment, after testing, some are considered to not be impairedhave a normal level of risk.
30-89 Days Past Due - Loans in this category are between 30 and 89 days past due and are notsubject to the Company’s loss mitigation process. These loans are considered to have a moderate level of risk.
90+ Days Past Due - Loans in this category are 90 days or more past due and are placed on nonaccrual status. These loans have been subject to the Company’s loss mitigation process and foreclosure and/or charge-off proceedings have commenced.

The Company uses a dual risk rating scale that utilizes quantitative models and qualitative factors (“score cards”) to assist in determining the appropriate risk rating for its commercial loans. This dual risk rating methodology incorporates a “probability of default” analysis which utilizes quantified metrics such as loan terms and financial performance, as well as a “loss given default” analysis which utilizes collateral values and economics of the market, among other attributes. Model outputs are reviewed and analyzed to ensure the projected risk levels are commensurate with underwriting and credit leader expectations. The risk rating scale includes Probability of Default levels of 1 – 16 and Loss Given Default levels of A – I. The scale allows for more granular recognition of risk and diversification of grading among traditional Pass grades.

The following is a reconciliation between the expanded risk rating scale and the Company’s traditional risk rating segments utilized within the commercial loan classes presented in the credit quality indicator tables.

Pass - Includes loans with an expanded risk rating of 1 through 11. Loans with a risk rating of 10 and 11 equate to loans included on management’s “watch list” and is intended to be utilized on a temporary basis for pass grade borrowers where a significant risk-modifying action is anticipated in impaired loans. Total classifiedthe near term.
Special Mention - Includes loans excludingwith an expanded risk rating of 12.
Substandard - Includes loans accounted for under ASC Topic 310-30, were $209.8 millionwith an expanded risk rating of 13 and $119.0 million as14.
Doubtful and loss - Includes loans with an expanded risk rating of December 31, 201915 and 2018, respectively.16.

100


The following table presents a summary of loans by credit risk rating,quality indicator, as of December 31, 2022, segregated by class of loans.

Term Loans Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year
(In thousands)202220212020201920182017 and PriorLines of Credit (“LOC”) Amortized Cost BasisLOC Converted to Term Loans Amortized Cost BasisTotal
Consumer - credit cards
Delinquency:
Current$— $— $— $— $— $— $195,222 $— $195,222 
30-89 days past due— — — — — — 1,297 — 1,297 
90+ days past due— — — — — — 409 — 409 
Total consumer - credit cards— — — — — — 196,928 — 196,928 
Consumer - other
Delinquency:
Current86,303 26,339 10,071 3,804 2,671 2,275 20,350 $151,816 
30-89 days past due298 241 135 13 34 119 12 — 852 
90+ days past due121 47 41 — — 214 
Total consumer - other86,722 26,627 10,208 3,818 2,707 2,435 20,362 152,882 
Real estate - C&D
Risk rating:
Pass237,304 68,916 50,912 16,920 13,625 9,611 2,163,776 334 $2,561,398 
Special mention— — — — — 41 1,342 — 1,383 
Substandard1,091 116 36 13 31 103 2,478 — 3,868 
Doubtful and loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total real estate - C&D238,395 69,032 50,948 16,933 13,656 9,755 2,167,596 334 2,566,649 
Real estate - SF residential
Delinquency:
Current700,976 411,885 295,365 141,608 192,176 440,931 324,282 4,192 $2,511,415 
30-89 days past due3,105 3,415 1,290 2,018 3,129 8,626 2,042 23,625 
90+ days past due586 871 885 968 1,017 6,312 436 11,075 
Total real estate - SF residential704,667 416,171 297,540 144,594 196,322 455,869 326,760 4,192 2,546,115 
Real estate - other commercial
Risk rating:
Pass1,917,352 1,482,049 768,630 254,986 179,729 428,027 2,093,379 19,469 7,143,621 
Special mention19,538 32,831 38,821 206 2,261 20,741 104,431 — 218,829 
Substandard24,639 3,399 27,399 2,544 2,026 15,217 30,824 — 106,048 
Doubtful and loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total real estate - other commercial1,961,529 1,518,279 834,850 257,736 184,016 463,985 2,228,634 19,469 7,468,498 
Commercial
Risk rating:
Pass595,256 300,650 168,539 41,924 31,329 35,447 1,401,402 24,940 2,599,487 
Special mention199 1,700 11 32 — 927 2,708 80 5,657 
Substandard5,257 2,435 3,328 802 891 1,290 11,337 1,805 27,145 
Doubtful and loss— — — — — — — 
Total commercial600,712 304,785 171,878 42,758 32,220 37,664 1,415,447 26,826 2,632,290 
Commercial - agriculture
Risk rating:
Pass44,377 22,901 12,044 4,483 1,029 369 119,342 310 204,855 
Special mention— — — — — — — 
Substandard55 78 49 10 — 560 — 760 
Doubtful and loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total commercial - agriculture44,440 22,909 12,122 4,532 1,039 369 119,902 310 205,623 
Other
Delinquency:
Current152,086 29,362 8,181 4,742 20,018 25,349 132,384 953 373,075 
30-89 days past due— — — — — 61 — — 61 
90+ days past due— — — — — — — 
Total other152,086 29,362 8,181 4,742 20,018 25,413 132,384 953 373,139 
Total$3,788,551 $2,387,165 $1,385,727 $475,113 $449,978 $995,490 $6,608,013 $52,087 $16,142,124 
101
(In thousands) 
Risk Rate
1-4
 
Risk Rate
5
 
Risk Rate
6
 
Risk Rate
7
 
Risk Rate
8
 Total
December 31, 2019  
  
  
  
  
  
Consumer:  
  
  
  
  
  
Credit cards $204,161
 $
 $641
 $
 $
 $204,802
Other consumer 190,350
 
 1,596
 
 
 191,946
Total consumer 394,511
 
 2,237
 
 
 396,748
Real estate:            
Construction and development 1,754,269
 49
 6,576
 
 
 1,760,894
Single family residential 1,415,603
 4,868
 24,146
 3
 
 1,444,620
Other commercial 3,621,296
 28,873
 28,739
 
 
 3,678,908
Total real estate 6,791,168
 33,790
 59,461
 3
 
 6,884,422
Commercial:            
Commercial 1,835,335
 25,185
 49,276
 
 
 1,909,796
Agricultural 162,808
 41
 547
 
 
 163,396
Total commercial 1,998,143
 25,226
 49,823
 
 
 2,073,192
Other 275,714
 
 
 
 
 275,714
Loans acquired 4,653,295
 43,602
 97,900
 170
 217
 4,795,184
Total $14,112,831
 $102,618
 $209,421
 $173
 $217
 $14,425,260



(In thousands) 
Risk Rate
1-4
 
Risk Rate
5
 
Risk Rate
6
 
Risk Rate
7
 
Risk Rate
8
 Total
December 31, 2018  
  
  
  
  
  
Consumer:  
  
  
  
  
  
Credit cards $203,667
 $
 $506
 $
 $
 $204,173
Other consumer 198,840
 
 2,457
 
 
 201,297
Total consumer 402,507
 
 2,963
 
 
 405,470
Real estate:            
Construction and development 1,296,988
 1,910
 1,825
 
 
 1,300,723
Single family residential 1,420,052
 1,628
 18,528
 235
 
 1,440,443
Other commercial 3,193,289
 17,169
 14,829
 
 
 3,225,287
Total real estate 5,910,329
 20,707
 35,182
 235
 
 5,966,453
Commercial:            
Commercial 1,742,002
 8,357
 24,550
 
 
 1,774,909
Agricultural 162,824
 75
 1,615
 
 
 164,514
Total commercial 1,904,826
 8,432
 26,165
 
 
 1,939,423
Other 119,042
 
 
 
 
 119,042
Loans acquired 3,187,083
 51,255
 54,097
 348
 
 3,292,783
Total $11,523,787
 $80,394
 $118,407
 $583
 $
 $11,723,171


Net (charge-offs)/recoveries for the years endedThe following table presents a summary of loans by credit quality indicator, as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, excluding loans acquired,2021 segregated by class of loans, were as follows: loans.

(In thousands)2019 2018
Consumer: 
  
Credit cards$(3,564) $(3,046)
Other consumer(2,537) (6,080)
Total consumer(6,101) (9,126)
Real estate:   
Construction and development(375) (1,775)
Single family residential(703) (494)
Other commercial(745) (2,645)
Total real estate(1,823) (4,914)
Commercial:   
Commercial(21,651) (5,878)
Agricultural
 
Total commercial(21,651) (5,878)
Total$(29,575) $(19,918)

Term Loans Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year
(In thousands)202120202019201820172016 and PriorLines of Credit (“LOC”) Amortized Cost BasisLOC Converted to Term Loans Amortized Cost BasisTotal
Consumer - credit cards
Delinquency:
Current$— $— $— $— $— $— $185,792 $— $185,792 
30-89 days past due— — — — — — 847 — 847 
90+ days past due— — — — — — 413 — 413 
Total consumer - credit cards— — — — — — 187,052 — 187,052 
Consumer - other
Delinquency:
Current97,830 21,885 11,712 6,756 5,416 3,833 19,607 — $167,039 
30-89 days past due265 121 164 49 219 156 175 — 1,149 
90+ days past due23 23 28 21 13 22 — — 130 
Total consumer - other98,118 22,029 11,904 6,826 5,648 4,011 19,782 — 168,318 
Real estate - C&D
Risk rating:
Pass74,813 83,729 28,803 17,349 8,505 9,319 1,074,617 20,285 $1,317,420 
Special mention— — 270 — — 47 — — 317 
Substandard191 77 16 54 324 423 5,598 1,951 8,634 
Doubtful and loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total real estate - C&D75,004 83,806 29,089 17,403 8,829 9,789 1,080,215 22,236 1,326,371 
Real estate - SF residential
Delinquency:
Current419,605 335,788 185,190 260,037 193,110 421,957 256,155 9,422 $2,081,264 
30-89 days past due1,061 883 1,662 791 1,077 4,360 1,479 — 11,313 
90+ days past due27 561 507 1,199 1,358 5,104 570 72 9,398 
Total real estate - SF residential420,693 337,232 187,359 262,027 195,545 431,421 258,204 9,494 2,101,975 
Real estate - other commercial
Risk rating:
Pass1,349,746 807,701 375,824 267,696 476,029 537,493 1,409,099 164,856 5,388,444 
Special mention28,151 30,981 2,799 6,650 39,361 4,801 38,638 1,608 152,989 
Substandard28,137 10,186 5,243 10,806 30,060 27,107 53,860 32,072 197,471 
Doubtful and loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total real estate - other commercial1,406,034 848,868 383,866 285,152 545,450 569,401 1,501,597 198,536 5,738,904 
Commercial
Risk rating:
Pass455,499 187,517 80,486 57,437 36,529 57,099 1,004,971 41,885 1,921,423 
Special mention670 2,482 1,066 189 261 2,770 8,500 10,499 26,437 
Substandard3,436 18,381 4,397 1,196 578 850 8,242 7,103 44,183 
Doubtful and loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total commercial459,605 208,380 85,949 58,822 37,368 60,719 1,021,713 59,487 1,992,043 
Commercial - agriculture
Risk rating:
Pass32,780 20,230 10,253 3,646 2,364 459 98,245 327 168,304 
Special mention— — — — — — — — — 
Substandard191 25 27 53 22 23 69 413 
Doubtful and loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total commercial - agriculture32,971 20,255 10,280 3,699 2,386 462 98,268 396 168,717 
Other
Delinquency:
Current24,247 4,740 1,236 22,438 6,692 5,578 264,189 — 329,120 
30-89 days past due— — — — — — — — — 
90+ days past due— — — — — — — 
Total other24,247 4,740 1,236 22,438 6,692 5,581 264,189 — 329,123 
Total$2,516,672 $1,525,310 $709,683 $656,367 $801,918 $1,081,384 $4,431,020 $290,149 $12,012,503 
102


Allowance for LoanCredit Losses
 
Allowance for LoanCredit Losses – The allowance for loancredit losses is a reserve established through a provision for loancredit losses charged to expense, which represents management’s best estimate of probablelifetime expected losses that have been incurred within the existing portfolio of loans.based on reasonable and supportable forecasts, historical loss experience, and other qualitative considerations. The allowance, in the judgment of management, is necessary to reserve for estimatedexpected loan losses and risks inherent in the loan portfolio. The Company’s allowance for loancredit loss methodology includes allowance allocationsreserve factors calculated to estimate current expected credit losses to amortized cost balances over the remaining contractual life of the portfolio, adjusted for the effective interest rate used to discount prepayments, in accordance with ASC Topic 310-10,326-20, Receivables, and allowance allocations calculated in accordance with ASC Topic 450-20, Loss ContingenciesFinancial Instruments - Credit Losses. Accordingly, the methodology is based on the Company’s internal grading system, specific impairment analysis,reasonable and supportable economic forecasts, historical loss experience, and other qualitative and quantitative factors.adjustments.


Loans with similar risk characteristics such as loan type, collateral type, and internal risk ratings are aggregated into homogeneous segments for assessment. Reserve factors are based on estimated probability of default and loss given default for each segment. The estimates are determined based on economic forecasts over the reasonable and supportable forecast period based on projected performance of economic variables that have a statistical relationship with the historical loss experience of the segments. For contractual periods that extend beyond the one-year forecast period, the estimates revert to average historical loss experiences over a one-year period on a straight-line basis.

As mentioned above, allocationsThe Company also includes qualitative adjustments to the allowance based on factors and considerations that have not otherwise been fully accounted for. Qualitative adjustments include, but are not limited to:

Changes in asset quality - Adjustments related to trending credit quality metrics including delinquency, non-performing loans, charge-offs, and risk ratings that may not be fully accounted for loan losses are categorized as either specific allocations or general allocations.in the reserve factor.
A loan is considered impaired when it is probable thatChanges in the Company will not receive all amounts due according to the contractual termsnature and volume of the portfolio - Adjustments related to current changes in the loan portfolio that are not fully represented or accounted for in the reserve factors.
Changes in lending and loan monitoring policies and procedures - Adjustments related to current changes in lending and loan monitoring procedures as well as review of specific internal policy compliance metrics.
Changes in the experience, ability, and depth of lending management and other relevant staff - Adjustments to measure increasing or decreasing credit risk related to lending and loan monitoring management.
Changes in the value of underlying collateral of collateralized loans - Adjustments related to improving or deterioration of the value of underlying collateral that are not fully captured in the reserve factors.
Changes in and the existence and effect of any concentrations of credit - Adjustments related to credit risk of specific industries that are not fully captured in the reserve factors.
Changes in regional and local economic and business conditions and developments - Adjustments related to expected and current economic conditions at a regional or local-level that are not fully captured within the Company’s reasonable and supportable forecast.
Data imprecisions due to limited historical loss data - Adjustments related to limited historical loss data that is representative of the collective loan portfolio.

Loans that do not share similar risk characteristics are evaluated on an individual basis. These evaluations are typically performed on loans with a deteriorated internal risk rating or are classified as a troubled debt restructuring. The allowance for credit loss is determined based on several methods including scheduled principal and interest payments. estimating the fair value of the underlying collateral or the present value of expected cash flows.

For a collateral dependent loan, the Company’s evaluation process includes a valuation by appraisal or other collateral analysis.analysis adjusted for selling costs, when appropriate. This valuation is compared to the remaining outstanding principal balance of the loan. If a loss is determined to be probable, the loss is included in the allowance for loancredit losses as a specific allocation. If the loan is not collateral dependent, the measurement of loss is based on the difference between the expected and contractual future cash flows of the loan.


103


Loans for which the repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of collateral and where the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty had an amortized cost of $70.9 million and $47.1 million as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as further detailed in the table below. The general allocation is calculated monthly based on management’s assessmentcollateral securing these loans consist of several factors such as (1) historical loss experience based on volumes and types, (2) volume and trends in delinquencies and nonaccruals, (3) lending policies and procedures including those for loan losses, collections and recoveries, (4) national, state and local economic trends and conditions, (5) external factors and pressure from competition, (6) the experience, ability and depth of lending management and staff, (7) seasoning of new products obtained and new markets entered through acquisition and (8) other factors and trends that will affect specific loans and categories of loans. The Company establishes general allocations for each major loan category. This category also includes allocations to loans which are collectively evaluated for loss such as credit cards, one-to-four family owner occupied residentialcommercial real estate loansproperties, residential properties, and other consumer loans.business assets.

(In thousands)Real Estate CollateralOther CollateralTotal
December 31, 2022
Construction and development$2,156 $— $2,156 
Single family residential— — — 
Other commercial real estate65,450 — 65,450 
Commercial— 3,320 3,320 
Total$67,606 $3,320 $70,926 
December 31, 2021
Construction and development$2,489 $— $2,489 
Single family residential1,838 — 1,838 
Other commercial real estate32,849 — 32,849 
Commercial— 9,913 9,913 
Total$37,176 $9,913 $47,089 

The following table details activity in the allowance for loancredit losses by portfolio segment for the years ended December 31, 20192022, 2021 and 2018.2020. Allocation of a portion of the allowance to one category of loans does not preclude its availability to absorb losses in other categories. 
(In thousands)Commercial 
Real
Estate
 
Credit
Card
 
Other
Consumer
and Other
 Total
December 31, 2019 
  
  
  
  
Balance, beginning of year (2)
$20,514
 $29,743
 $3,923
 $2,419
 $56,599
Provision for loan losses (1)
24,000
 10,797
 3,692
 2,287
 40,776
Charge-offs(22,023) (2,319) (4,585) (4,894) (33,821)
Recoveries372
 496
 1,021
 2,357
 4,246
Net charge-offs(21,651) (1,823) (3,564) (2,537) (29,575)
Balance, end of year (2)
$22,863
 $38,717
 $4,051
 $2,169
 $67,800
          
Period-end amount allocated to: 
  
  
  
  
Loans individually evaluated for impairment$5,007
 $740
 $
 $
 $5,747
Loans collectively evaluated for impairment17,856
 37,977
 4,051
 2,169
 62,053
Balance, end of year  (2)
$22,863
 $38,717
 $4,051
 $2,169
 $67,800
          
December 31, 2018 
  
  
  
  
Balance, beginning of year (2)
$7,007
 $27,281
 $3,784
 $3,596
 $41,668
Provision for loan losses (1)
19,385
 7,376
 3,185
 4,903
 34,849
Charge-offs(6,623) (5,905) (4,051) (6,637) (23,216)
Recoveries745
 991
 1,005
 557
 3,298
Net charge-offs(5,878) (4,914) (3,046) (6,080) (19,918)
Balance, end of year (2)
$20,514
 $29,743
 $3,923
 $2,419
 $56,599
          
Period-end amount allocated to: 
  
  
  
  
Loans individually evaluated for impairment$437
 $247
 $
 $
 $684
Loans collectively evaluated for impairment20,077
 29,496
 3,923
 2,419
 55,915
Balance, end of year (2)
$20,514
 $29,743
 $3,923
 $2,419
 $56,599

_________________________
(In thousands)CommercialReal
Estate
Credit
Card
Other
Consumer
and Other
Total
December 31, 2022     
Beginning balance, January 1, 2022$17,458 $179,270 $3,987 $4,617 $205,332 
Acquisition adjustment for PCD loans6,433 3,187 — 9,622 
Provision for credit loss expense22,412 (34,456)3,991 2,674 (5,379)
Charge-offs(14,270)(4,122)(3,862)(1,876)(24,130)
Recoveries2,373 6,916 1,024 1,197 11,510 
Net charge-offs(11,897)2,794 (2,838)(679)(12,620)
Ending balance, December 31, 2022$34,406 $150,795 $5,140 $6,614 $196,955 

104



(In thousands)CommercialReal
Estate
Credit
Card
Other
Consumer
and Other
Total
December 31, 2021     
Beginning balance, January 1, 2021$42,093 $182,868 $7,472 $5,617 $238,050 
Acquisition adjustment for PCD loans3,349 10,101 — 13,451 
Provision for credit loss expense(22,031)(7,918)(908)(352)(31,209)
Charge-offs(10,613)(10,691)(3,625)(2,053)(26,982)
Recoveries4,660 4,910 1,048 1,404 12,022 
Net charge-offs(5,953)(5,781)(2,577)(649)(14,960)
Ending balance, December 31, 2021$17,458 $179,270 $3,987 $4,617 $205,332 
December 31, 2020
Beginning balance, January 1, 2020 - prior to adoption of CECL$22,863 $39,161 $4,051 $2,169 $68,244 
Impact of CECL adoption22,733 114,314 2,232 12,098 151,377 
Provision for credit loss expense42,017 42,276 4,288 (6,093)82,488 
Charge-offs(48,736)(13,788)(4,113)(4,022)(70,659)
Recoveries3,216 905 1,014 1,465 6,600 
Net charge-offs(45,520)(12,883)(3,099)(2,557)(64,059)
Ending balance, December 31, 2020$42,093 $182,868 $7,472 $5,617 $238,050 
(1)
As of December 31, 2022, the Company’s allowance for credit losses was considered sufficient based upon expected loan level cash flows that were supported by economic forecasts. Provision for loan losses of $2,464,000 attributableexpense related to loans was recaptured during the year for a variety of factors including a release of $16.0 million driven by improvements in certain industry specific qualitative factors for the restaurant, hospitality, student housing and office space industries due to lower pandemic related stresses. The remaining recapture during 2022 was driven by the planned exit of several large oil and gas relationships during the year, along with the Company’s improved asset credit quality metrics, which combined with improved Moody’s economic modeling scenarios, more than offset the $30.3 million Day 2 provision expense required for loans acquired was excluded from this table forby the Company in the Spirit acquisition.
For the year ended December 31, 2019 (total2021, provision for loan losses forexpense was recaptured as the year ended December 31, 2019 was $43,240,000). There were $3,015,000 in charge-offs for loans acquired and recoveries of $900,000 for loans acquired duringeconomy emerged from the year ended December 31, 2019 resulting in an ending balance inpandemic. During 2021, the allowanceCompany experienced improved asset credit quality metrics coupled with improved Moody’s economic modeling scenarios, as compared to the previous year’s concern over the economic stresses related to loans acquired of $444,000. ProvisionCOVID-19.
Reserve for loan losses of $3,299,000 attributable to loans acquired was excluded from this table for the year ended December 31, 2018 (total provision for loan losses for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $38,148,000). There were $3,622,000 in charge-offs for loans acquired during the year ended December 31, 2018 resulting in an ending balance in the allowance related to loans acquired of $95,000.
(2)    Allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2019 includes $444,000 of allowance for loans acquired (not shown in the table above). Allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2018 and 2017 includes $95,000 and $418,000 allowance for loans acquired, respectively. The total allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 was $68,244,000, $56,694,000 and $42,086,000, respectively.
Activity in the allowance for loan losses for the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows: 
(In thousands) Commercial 
Real
Estate
 
Credit
Card
 
Other
Consumer
and Other
 Total
December 31, 2017  
  
  
  
  
Balance, beginning of year (2)
 $7,739
 $21,817
 $3,779
 $2,951
 $36,286
Provision for loan losses (1)
 7,002
 12,463
 2,889
 2,173
 24,527
Charge-offs (7,837) (7,989) (3,905) (3,767) (23,498)
Recoveries 103
 990
 1,021
 2,239
 4,353
Net charge-offs (7,734) (6,999) (2,884) (1,528) (19,145)
Balance, end of year (2)
 $7,007
 $27,281
 $3,784
 $3,596
 $41,668

 _________________________
(1)    Provision for loan losses of $1,866,000 attributable to loans acquired was excluded from this table for the year ended December 31, 2017 (total provision for loan losses for the year ended December 31, 2017 was $26,393,000). There were $2,402,000 in charge-offs for loans acquired during 2017 resulting in an ending balance in the allowance related to loans acquired of $418,000.
(2)    Allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2017 includes $418,000 allowance for loans acquired (not shown in the table above). The total allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2017 was $42,086,000.
The Company’s recorded investment in loans, excluding loans acquired, as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 related to each balance in the allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment on the basis of the Company’s impairment methodology was as follows: 
(In thousands) Commercial 
Real
Estate
 
Credit
Card
 
Other
Consumer
and Other
 Total
December 31, 2019  
  
  
  
  
Loans individually evaluated for impairment $36,079
 $31,093
 $382
 $1,378
 $68,932
Loans collectively evaluated for impairment 2,037,113
 6,853,329
 204,420
 466,282
 9,561,144
Balance, end of period $2,073,192
 $6,884,422
 $204,802
 $467,660
 $9,630,076
           
December 31, 2018  
  
  
  
  
Loans individually evaluated for impairment $13,062
 $24,253
 $296
 $2,159
 $39,770
Loans collectively evaluated for impairment 1,926,361
 5,942,200
 203,877
 318,180
 8,390,618
Balance, end of period $1,939,423
 $5,966,453
 $204,173
 $320,339
 $8,430,388





NOTE 6:LOANS ACQUIRED

During the fourth quarter of 2019, the Company evaluated $1.995 billion of net loans ($2.011 billion gross loans less $15.818 million discount) purchased in conjunction with the acquisition of Landrum in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-20, Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs. The Company evaluated the remaining $11.2 million of net loans ($15.823 million gross loans less $4.6 million discount) purchased in conjunction with the acquisition of Landrum for impairment in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality. Purchased loans are considered impaired if there is evidence of credit deterioration since origination and if it is probable that not all contractually required payments will be collected.

During the second quarter of 2019, the Company evaluated $1.097 billion of net loans ($1.127 billion gross loans less $30.6 million discount) purchased in conjunction with the acquisition of Reliance in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-20. The Company evaluated the remaining $176,000 of net loans ($385,000 gross loans less $209,000 discount) purchased in conjunction with the acquisition of Reliance for impairment in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-30.

During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company evaluated $1.985 billion of net loans ($2.021 billion gross loans less $36.3 million discount) purchased in conjunction with the acquisition of OKSB in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-20. The Company evaluated the remaining $11.4 million of net loans ($18.1 million gross loans less $6.7 million discount) purchased in conjunction with the acquisition of OKSB for impairment in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-30.

Also during the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company evaluated $2.208 billion of net loans ($2.246 billion gross loans less $37.8 million discount) purchased in conjunction with the acquisition of First Texas in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-20.
During the second quarter of 2017, the Company evaluated $249.2 million of net loans ($254.2 million gross loans less $5.0 million discount) purchased in conjunction with the acquisition of Hardeman in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-20. The Company evaluated the remaining $2.4 million of net loans ($3.4 million gross loans less $990,000 discount) purchased in conjunction with the acquisition of Hardeman for impairment in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 310-30.
For the acquisitions discussed above, the fair value discount associated with each acquisition is being accreted into interest income over the weighted average life of the loans using a constant yield method. See Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, and Note 2, Acquisitions, for further discussions regarding the Company’s acquisition accounting policies and specific information on loans acquired from the above acquisitions.


The following table reflects the carrying value of all loans acquired as of December 31, 2019 and 2018: 

  
Loans Acquired
At December 31,
(In thousands) 2019 2018
Consumer:  
  
Other consumer $57,748
 $15,658
Real estate:    
Construction and development 475,967
 429,605
Single family residential 997,444
 566,188
Other commercial 2,526,247
 1,848,679
Total real estate 3,999,658
 2,844,472
Commercial:    
Commercial 585,720
 430,914
Agricultural 152,058
 1,739
Total commercial 737,778
 432,653
Total loans acquired (1)
 $4,795,184
 $3,292,783

_________________________
(1)    Loans acquired are reported net of a $444,000 and $95,000 allowance as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

Nonaccrual loans acquired, excluding purchased credit impaired loans accounted for under ASC Topic 310-30, segregated by class of loans, are as follows (see Note 5, Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses, for discussion of nonaccrual loans): 

(In thousands) December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018
Consumer:  
  
Other consumer $327
 $140
Real estate:    
Construction and development 751
 114
Single family residential 9,593
 6,603
Other commercial 7,221
 1,167
Total real estate 17,565
 7,884
Commercial:    
Commercial 4,349
 13,578
Agricultural 253
 38
Total commercial 4,602
 13,616
Total $22,494
 $21,640




An age analysis of past due loans acquired segregated by class of loans, is as follows (see Note 5, Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses, for discussion of past due loans):

(In thousands) 
Gross
30-89 Days
Past Due
 
90 Days
or More
Past Due
 
Total
Past Due
 Current 
Total
Loans
 
90 Days
Past Due &
Accruing
December 31, 2019            
Consumer:            
Other consumer $827
 $140
 $967
 $56,781
 $57,748
 $
Real estate:            
Construction and development 824
 473
 1,297
 474,670
 475,967
 
Single family residential 12,904
 5,020
 17,924
 979,520
 997,444
 597
Other commercial 3,343
 2,481
 5,824
 2,520,423
 2,526,247
 
Total real estate 17,071
 7,974
 25,045
 3,974,613
 3,999,658
 597
Commercial:            
Commercial 4,326
 1,377
 5,703
 580,017
 585,720
 
Agricultural 1,016
 6
 1,022
 151,036
 152,058
 
Total commercial 5,342
 1,383
 6,725
 731,053
 737,778
 
             
Total $23,240
 $9,497
 $32,737
 $4,762,447
 $4,795,184
 $597
December 31, 2018  
  
  
  
  
  
Consumer:  
  
  
  
  
  
Other consumer $337
 $49
 $386
 $15,272
 $15,658
 $2
Real estate:            
Construction and development 8,283
 27
 8,310
 421,295
 429,605
 
Single family residential 4,706
 3,049
 7,755
 558,433
 566,188
 
Other commercial 168
 577
 745
 1,847,934
 1,848,679
 
Total real estate 13,157
 3,653
 16,810
 2,827,662
 2,844,472
 
Commercial:            
Commercial 1,302
 9,542
 10,844
 420,070
 430,914
 
Agricultural 31
 5
 36
 1,703
 1,739
 
Total commercial 1,333
 9,547
 10,880
 421,773
 432,653
 
             
Total $14,827
 $13,249
 $28,076
 $3,264,707
 $3,292,783
 $2




The following table presents a summary of loans acquired by credit risk rating, segregated by class of loans (see Note 5, Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses, for discussion of loan risk rating). Loans accounted for under ASC Topic 310-30 are all included in Risk Rate 1-4 in this table.
(In thousands) 
Risk Rate
1-4
 
Risk Rate
5
 
Risk Rate
6
 
Risk Rate
7
 
Risk Rate
8
 Total
December 31, 2019  
  
  
  
  
  
Consumer:  
  
  
  
  
  
Other consumer $57,318
 $
 $430
 $
 $
 $57,748
Real estate:            
Construction and development 474,750
 21
 1,159
 
 37
 475,967
Single family residential 978,681
 1,181
 17,455
 127
 
 997,444
Other commercial 2,446,685
 40,872
 38,690
 
 
 2,526,247
Total real estate 3,900,116
 42,074
 57,304
 127
 37
 3,999,658
Commercial:            
Commercial 548,928
 1,528
 35,041
 43
 180
 585,720
Agricultural 146,933
 
 5,125
 
 
 152,058
Total commercial 695,861
 1,528
 40,166
 43
 180
 737,778
             
Total $4,653,295
 $43,602
 $97,900
 $170
 $217
 $4,795,184
             
December 31, 2018  
  
  
  
  
  
Consumer:  
  
  
  
  
  
Other consumer $15,380
 $
 $278
 $
 $
 $15,658
Real estate:            
Construction and development 393,122
 27,621
 8,862
 
 
 429,605
Single family residential 553,460
 2,081
 10,299
 348
 
 566,188
Other commercial 1,822,179
 9,137
 17,363
 
 
 1,848,679
Total real estate 2,768,761
 38,839
 36,524
 348
 
 2,844,472
Commercial:            
Commercial 401,300
 12,416
 17,198
 
 
 430,914
Agricultural 1,642
 
 97
 
 
 1,739
Total commercial 402,942
 12,416
 17,295
 
 
 432,653
             
Total $3,187,083
 $51,255
 $54,097
 $348
 $
 $3,292,783

Loans acquired were individually evaluated and recorded at estimated fair value, including estimated credit losses, at the time of acquisition. These loans are systematically reviewed by the Company to determine the risk of losses that may exceed those identified at the time of the acquisition. Techniques used in determining risk of loss are similar to the Company’s legacy loan portfolio, with most focus being placed on those loans which include the larger loan relationships and those loans which exhibit higher risk characteristics.


The following is a summary of the loans acquired in the Landrum acquisition on October 31, 2019, as of the date of acquisition. 
(In thousands) Not Impaired Impaired
Contractually required principal and interest at acquisition $2,033,315
 $15,822
Non-accretable difference (expected losses and foregone interest) 
 (4,646)
Cash flows expected to be collected at acquisition 2,033,315
 11,176
Accretable yield (38,555) 
Basis in acquired loans at acquisition $1,994,760
 $11,176


The following is a summary of the loans acquired in the Reliance acquisition on April 12, 2019, as of the date of acquisition. 
(In thousands) Not Impaired Impaired
Contractually required principal and interest at acquisition $1,138,142
 $385
Non-accretable difference (expected losses and foregone interest) 
 (210)
Cash flows expected to be collected at acquisition 1,138,142
 175
Accretable yield (41,447) 


Basis in acquired loans at acquisition $1,096,695
 $175


The following is a summary of the loans acquired in the OKSB acquisition on October 19, 2017, as of the date of acquisition. 
(In thousands) Not Impaired Impaired
Contractually required principal and interest at acquisition $2,021,388
 $18,136
Non-accretable difference (expected losses and foregone interest) 
 (6,731)
Cash flows expected to be collected at acquisition 2,021,388
 11,405
Accretable yield (36,340) 
Basis in acquired loans at acquisition $1,985,048
 $11,405


The following is a summary of the loans acquired in the First Texas acquisition on October 19, 2017, as of the date of acquisition. 
(In thousands) Not Impaired Impaired
Contractually required principal and interest at acquisition $2,246,212
 $
Non-accretable difference (expected losses and foregone interest) 
 
Cash flows expected to be collected at acquisition 2,246,212
 
Accretable yield (37,834) 
Basis in acquired loans at acquisition $2,208,378
 $

The following is a summary of the loans acquired in the Hardeman acquisition on May 15, 2017, as of the date of acquisition. 
(In thousands) Not Impaired Impaired
Contractually required principal and interest at acquisition $254,189
 $3,452
Non-accretable difference (expected losses and foregone interest) 
 (990)
Cash flows expected to be collected at acquisition 254,189
 2,462
Accretable yield (5,002) 
Basis in acquired loans at acquisition $249,187
 $2,462

Unfunded Commitments
 
In addition to the accretable yield on acquired loans not consideredallowance for credit losses, the Company has established a reserve for unfunded commitments, classified in other liabilities. This reserve is maintained at a level management believes to be impaired,sufficient to absorb losses arising from unfunded loan commitments. The reserve for unfunded commitments was $41.9 million and $22.4 million, as of December 31, 2022 and 2021 respectively. The adequacy of the reserve for unfunded commitments is determined quarterly based on methodology similar to the methodology for determining the allowance for credit losses. During 2022, an adjustment to the reserve for unfunded commitments resulted in an expense of $16.0 million due to the overall increase in unfunded commitments, primarily made up of commercial construction loans, which receive a higher reserve allocation than other loans. Additionally, an adjustment to the reserve for unfunded commitments resulted in an expense of $3.5 million which was due to the Day 2 provision expense required for unfunded commitments related to the Spirit acquisition. These adjustments were included in the provision for credit losses in the statement of income. No adjustment was made to the reserve for unfunded commitments during 2021 as it was considered sufficient to cover any loss expectations.

Provision for Credit Losses

Provision for credit losses is determined by the Company as the amount of the estimated cash flows expected to be received fromadded to the purchasedallowance for credit impairedloss accounts for various types of financial instruments including loans, securities and off-balance-sheet credit exposure after net charge-offs have been deducted to bring the allowance to a level which, in excess of the fair values recorded for the purchasedmanagement's best estimate, is necessary to absorb expected credit impaired loans is also referred to as the accretable yield. The accretable yield is recognized as interest incomelosses over the estimated lives of the loans. Each quarter, the Company estimates the cash flows expected to be collected from the acquired purchasedrespective financial instruments.


105


The components of provision for credit impaired loans, and adjustments may or may not be required. This has resulted in an increase in interest income that is spread on a level-yield basis over the remaining expected lives of the loans. These adjustments will be recognized over the remaining lives of the purchased credit impaired loans. The accretable yield adjustments recorded in future periods will change as the Company continues to evaluate expected cash flows from the purchased credit impaired loans.


Changes in the carrying amount of the accretable yield for all purchased impaired loans were as followslosses for the years ended December 31 2019, 2018 and 2017. were as follows:
(In thousands) 
Accretable
Yield
 
Carrying
Amount of
Loans
Balance, January 1, 2017 $1,655
 $17,802
Additions 
 13,793
Accretable yield adjustments 4,893
 
Accretion (5,928) 5,928
Payments and other reductions, net 
 (20,407)
Balance, December 31, 2017 620
 17,116
     
Additions 
 
Accretable yield adjustments 2,045
 
Accretion (1,205) 1,205
Payments and other reductions, net 
 (14,271)
Balance, December 31, 2018 1,460
 4,050
     
Additions 
 11,351
Accretable yield adjustments 39
 
Accretion (51) 51
Payments and other reductions, net 
 (2,068)
Balance, December 31, 2019 $1,448
 $13,384

(In thousands)202220212020
Provision for credit losses related to:   
Loans$(5,379)$(31,209)$82,488 
Unfunded commitments19,453 — (10,000)
Securities - HTM— (1,183)2,546 
Securities - AFS— (312)(61)
Total$14,074 $(32,704)$74,973 

Purchased impairedCredit Deteriorated Loans

Purchased loans that reflect a more-than-insignificant deterioration of credit from origination are evaluated on an individual borrower basis. Because someconsidered PCD. For PCD loans, evaluated by the Company were determined to have experienced impairmentinitial estimate of expected credit losses is recognized in the estimated credit quality or cash flows, the Company recorded a provision and established an allowance for loan lossescredit loss on the date of acquisition using the same methodology as discussed in the Allowance for Credit Losses section included above.

The following table provides a summary of loans acquired resulting inpurchased as part of the Spirit acquisition with credit deterioration at acquisition:
(In thousands)CommercialReal
Estate
Credit
Card
Other
Consumer
and Other
Total
Unpaid principal balance$8,258 $66,534 $— $59 $74,851 
PCD allowance for credit loss at acquisition(6,433)(3,187)— (2)(9,622)
Non-credit related discount(378)(998)— (1)(1,377)
Fair value of PCD loans$1,447 $62,349 $— $56 $63,852 

The following table provides a total allowance onsummary of loans acquiredpurchased as part of $444,000the Landmark acquisition with credit deterioration at December 31, 2019, $95,000acquisition:
(In thousands)CommercialReal
Estate
Credit
Card
Other
Consumer
and Other
Total
Unpaid principal balance$11,046 $55,549 $— $67 $66,662 
PCD allowance for credit loss at acquisition(350)(2,008)— (1)(2,359)
Non-credit related discount(160)(2,415)— (2)(2,577)
Fair value of PCD loans$10,536 $51,126 $— $64 $61,726 

The following table provides a summary of loans purchased as part of the Triumph acquisition with credit deterioration at December 31, 2018 and $418,000 at December 31, 2017.acquisition:
(In thousands)CommercialReal
Estate
Credit
Card
Other
Consumer
and Other
Total
Unpaid principal balance$40,466 $80,803 $— $15 $121,284 
PCD allowance for credit loss at acquisition(2,999)(8,093)— — (11,092)
Non-credit related discount(279)(1,314)— (1)(1,594)
Fair value of PCD loans$37,188 $71,396 $— $14 $108,598 


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NOTE 7:6: RIGHT-OF-USE LEASE ASSETS AND LEASE LIABILITIES

As of the first quarter 2019, theThe Company accounts for its leases in accordance with ASC Topic 842, Leases, which requires recognition of most leases, including operating leases, with a term greater than 12 months on the balance sheet. At lease commencement, the lease contract is reviewed to determine whether the contract is a finance lease or an operating lease; a lease liability is recognized on a discounted basis, related to the Company’s obligation to make lease payments; and a right-of-use asset is also recognized related to the Company’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. The Company accounts for lease and non-lease components (such as taxes, insurance and common area maintenance costs) separately as such amounts are generally readily determinable under the lease contracts. Lease payments over the expected term are discounted using the Company’s FHLBFederal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) advance rates for borrowings of similar term. If it is reasonably certain that a renewal or termination option will be exercised, the effects of such options are included in the determination of the expected lease term. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet; the Company recognizes lease expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

The Company’s leases are classified as operating leases with a term, including expected renewal or termination options, greater than one year, and are related to certain office facilities and office equipment. AsThe following table presents information as of December 31, 2019,2022 and 2021 related to the Company’s right-of-use lease assets, included in premises and equipment, are $40.7 million and lease liabilities, included in accrued interest and other liabilities are $40.9 million.liabilities.



Other information related to the Company’s operating leases is presented in the table below:

  2019 2018 2017
Operating lease cost for the years ended December 31 $13,560,000
 $13,378,000
 $7,780,000
       
Weighted average remaining lease term 8.37 years
    
Weighted average discount rate 3.27%    

(Dollars in thousands)20222021
Right-of-use lease assets$46,845 $48,855 
Lease liabilities47,850 49,321 
Weighted average remaining lease term6.69 years7.96 years
Weighted average discount rate2.41 %2.00 %

Operating lease cost for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020 was $14,162,000, $11,530,000, and $13,103,000, respectively.

The Company’s remaining undiscounted minimum lease payments on operating leases as of December 31, 20192022 are as follows:

Year(In thousands)
2020$10,071
20218,394
20227,095
20235,236
20243,345
Thereafter13,659
Total undiscounted minimum lease payments47,800
Less: Net present value adjustment6,946
Lease liability included in other liabilities$40,854


Year(In thousands)
2023$11,210 
20248,460 
20256,894 
20265,893 
20273,750 
Thereafter16,971 
Total undiscounted minimum lease payments53,178 
Less: Net present value adjustment5,328 
Lease liability included in other liabilities$47,850 
See Note 20, New Accounting Standards, for additional information related to the adoption of ASC Topic 842.

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NOTE 7:PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Total premises and equipment, net at December 31, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:

(In thousands)20222021
Right-of-use lease assets$46,845 $48,855 
Premises and equipment:
Land122,841 101,728 
Buildings and improvements370,530 320,844 
Furniture, fixtures and equipment122,029 107,122 
Software70,984 66,947 
Construction in progress15,488 9,117 
Accumulated depreciation and amortization(199,976)(171,144)
Total premises and equipment, net$548,741 $483,469 

NOTE 8: GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Goodwill is tested annually, or more often than annually, if circumstances warrant, for impairment. If the implied fair value of goodwill is lower than its carrying amount, goodwill impairment is indicated, and goodwill is written down to its implied fair value. Subsequent increases in goodwill value are not recognized in the financial statements. Goodwill totaled $1.1$1.32 billion and $1.15 billion at December 31, 20192022 and $845.72021, respectively. Goodwill increased $173.6 million atduring the year ended December 31, 2018.2022 primarily due to the Spirit acquisition, along with adjustments related to the continued assessment of the fair value and assumed tax position of the Landmark and Triumph acquisitions.

During 2019, the Company recorded $131.3 million and $78.5 million of goodwill as a result of its acquisitions of Landrum and Reliance, respectively. Goodwill impairment was neither indicated nor recorded in 2019, 20182022, 2021 or 2017.2020. During the second quarter of 2022, the Company performed an annual goodwill impairment analysis and concluded no impairment existed. Also during 2022, the Company’s share price began to decline as markets in the United States responded to record inflation and other economic pressures. As a result of the effect on share price, the Company performed interim goodwill impairment assessments during the second, third and fourth quarters and concluded no impairment existed during the periods. While the goodwill impairment analysis indicated no impairment at December 31, 2022, the Company’s assessment depends on several assumptions which are dependent on market and economic conditions, and future changes in those conditions could impact the Company’s assessment in the future.
 
Core deposit premiums represent the value of the relationships that acquired banks had with their deposit customers and are amortized over periods ranging from 10 years to 15 years and are periodically evaluated, at least annually, as to the recoverability of their carrying value. Other intangible assets represent the value of other acquired relationships, including relationships with trust and wealth management customers, and are being amortized over various periods ranging from 108 years to 15 years.



108


Changes in the carrying amount and accumulated amortization of the Company’s core deposit premiums and other intangible assets at December 31, 20192022 and 20182021 were as follows:

(In thousands)2019 2018(In thousands)20222021
Core deposit premiums:   Core deposit premiums:
Balance, beginning of year$79,807
 $89,325
Balance, beginning of year$93,862 $97,363 
Acquisitions(1)
42,695
 
Acquisitions(1)
36,500 9,295 
Disposition of intangible asset(2)
Disposition of intangible asset(2)
— (674)
Amortization(10,694) (9,518)Amortization(14,346)(12,122)
Balance, end of year111,808
 79,807
Balance, end of year116,016 93,862 
Books of business and other intangibles:   Books of business and other intangibles:
Balance, beginning of year11,527
 16,746
Balance, beginning of year12,373 13,747 
Acquisitions(2)
5,116
 
Disposition of intangible asset
 (3,849)
Acquisitions(3)
Acquisitions(3)
2,131 — 
Amortization(1,111) (1,370)Amortization(1,569)(1,374)
Balance, end of year15,532
 11,527
Balance, end of year12,935 12,373 
Total other intangible assets, net$127,340
 $91,334
Total other intangible assets, net$128,951 $106,235 
_________________________
(1)    A core deposit premium of $36.5 million was recorded during 2022 as part of the Spirit acquisition. Core deposit premiums of $24.3$5.1 million and $18.4$4.2 million were recorded during 2021 as part of the LandrumTriumph and RelianceLandmark acquisitions, during the fourth and second quarters of 2019, respectively. See Note 2, Acquisitions, for additional information on acquisitions completed duringacquisitions.
(2)    Adjustments recorded for the period.premiums on certain deposit liabilities associated with the sale of banking operations.
(2)(3)    The Company recorded $5.1$2.1 million during the fourth quarter 2019 primarily2022 related to servicing assets acquired as part of the wealth management operations acquired from Landrum.Spirit acquisition. See Note 2, Acquisitions, for additional information on acquisitions completed during the period.acquisitions.

The carrying basis and accumulated amortization of the Company’s other intangible assets at December 31, 20192022 and 20182021 were as follows:
(In thousands)2019 2018
Core deposit premiums:   
Gross carrying amount$148,679
 $105,984
Accumulated amortization(36,871) (26,177)
Core deposit premiums, net111,808
 79,807
Books of business and other intangibles:   
Gross carrying amount20,350
 15,234
Accumulated amortization(4,818) (3,707)
Books of business and other intangibles, net15,532
 11,527
Total other intangible assets, net$127,340
 $91,334

(In thousands)20222021
Core deposit premiums:
Gross carrying amount$189,996 $153,496 
Accumulated amortization(73,980)(59,634)
Core deposit premiums, net116,016 93,862 
Books of business and other intangibles:
Gross carrying amount22,068 19,937 
Accumulated amortization(9,133)(7,564)
Books of business and other intangibles, net12,935 12,373 
Total other intangible assets, net$128,951 $106,235 
 
Core deposit premium amortization expense recorded for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 20172020 was $10.7$14.3 million, $9.5$12.1 million and $6.0$12.1 million, respectively. Amortization expense recorded for books of business and other intangibles was $1.1$1.6 million, $1.4 million, and $1.6$1.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, respectively.
 

109


The Company’s estimated remaining amortization expense on other intangible assets as of December 31, 20192022 is as follows: 
Year(In thousands)
2020$13,712
202113,650
202213,598
202313,316
202412,413
Thereafter60,651
Total$127,340

Year(In thousands)
2023$16,306 
202415,403 
202512,819 
202612,346 
202712,218 
Thereafter59,859 
Total$128,951 



NOTE 9: TIME DEPOSITS

Time deposits included approximately $2.15$1.08 billion and $1.44 billion of certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more, at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Of this total approximately $837.3 million and $753.2$784.9 million of certificates of deposit were over $250,000 at December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively.
 
Brokered time deposits were $1.06$2.75 billion and $1.39 billion$466.0 million at December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively. Maturities of all time deposits at December 31, 2022 are as follows:  2020 – $2.60 billion; 2021 – $492.43 million; 2022 – $112.03 million; 2023 – $47.20 million; 2024 – $16.82 million; thereafter – $4.47 million.

Year(In thousands)
2023$4,141,394 
2024503,103 
202595,340 
202618,452 
20278,415 
Thereafter1,854 
Total$4,768,558 
 
Deposits are the Company’s primary funding source for loans and investment securities. The mix and repricing alternatives can significantly affect the cost of this source of funds and, therefore, impact the interest margin.


NOTE 10: INCOME TAXES

The provision for income taxes for the years ended December 31 is comprised of the following components:
(In thousands)2019 2018 2017(In thousands)202220212020
Income taxes currently payable$29,354
 $41,946
 $38,732
Income taxes currently payable$35,215 $50,369 $65,012 
Deferred income taxes34,911
 8,412
 23,251
Deferred income taxes14,933 10,937 (122)
Provision for income taxes$64,265
 $50,358
 $61,983
Provision for income taxes$50,148 $61,306 $64,890 


110


The tax effects of temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their financial reporting amounts that give rise to deferred income tax assets and liabilities, and their approximate tax effects, are as follows as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018:2021:
(In thousands) 2019 2018
Deferred tax assets:  
  
Loans acquired $20,783
 $12,536
Allowance for loan losses 16,732
 13,947
Valuation of foreclosed assets 2,626
 1,474
Tax NOLs from acquisition 18,118
 7,242
Deferred compensation payable 2,750
 2,707
Accrued equity and other compensation 6,677
 8,182
Acquired securities 3,393
 397
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities 
 9,196
Right-of-use lease liability 10,221
 
Other 7,886
 7,042
Gross deferred tax assets 89,186
 62,723
Deferred tax liabilities:  
  
Goodwill and other intangible amortization (41,221) (30,471)
Accumulated depreciation (36,554) (13,361)
Right-of-use lease asset (10,176) 
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities (3,720) 
Other (7,651) (5,360)
Gross deferred tax liabilities (99,322) (49,192)
Net deferred tax (liability) asset $(10,136) $13,531

(In thousands)20222021
Deferred tax assets:  
Loans acquired$5,846 $4,832 
Allowance for credit losses47,145 48,462 
Valuation of foreclosed assets523 628 
Tax NOLs from acquisition10,962 13,537 
Deferred compensation payable3,867 3,426 
Accrued equity and other compensation8,153 5,776 
Acquired securities7,651 223 
Right-of-use lease liability11,641 11,984 
Unrealized loss on AFS securities177,839 8,164 
Allowance for unfunded commitments10,200 5,442 
Other4,173 7,202 
Gross deferred tax assets288,000 109,676 
Deferred tax liabilities:  
Goodwill and other intangible amortization(44,539)(38,329)
Accumulated depreciation(24,288)(26,347)
Right-of-use lease asset(11,396)(11,871)
Unrealized gain on swaps(25,836)(2,767)
Other(8,875)(3,718)
Gross deferred tax liabilities(114,934)(83,032)
Net deferred tax asset$173,066 $26,644 
 


A reconciliation of income tax expense at the statutory rate to the Company’s actual income tax expense is shown below for the years ended December 31: 
(In thousands) 2019 2018 2017
Computed at the statutory rate (1)
 $63,442
 $55,875
 $54,223
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from:  
  
  
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit 5,860
 5,015
 1,582
Discrete items related to ASU 2016-09 (38) (2,439) (1,480)
Tax exempt interest income (4,390) (3,168) (4,209)
Tax exempt earnings on BOLI (852) (869) (926)
Federal tax credits (2,933) (3,003) (1,586)
Impact of DTA remeasurement 
 
 11,471
Other differences, net 3,176
 (1,053) 2,908
Actual tax provision $64,265
 $50,358
 $61,983

_________________________
(In thousands)202220212020
Computed at the statutory rate$64,378 $69,807 $67,143 
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from:   
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit3,249 4,452 6,402 
Discrete items related to share-based compensation(74)(17)375 
Tax exempt interest income(14,484)(11,510)(6,726)
Tax exempt earnings on bank owned life insurance(1,918)(1,212)(1,214)
Federal tax credits(1,708)(2,260)(2,177)
Other differences, net705 2,046 1,087 
Actual tax provision$50,148 $61,306 $64,890 
(1)    The statutory rate was 21% for 2019 and 2018 compared to 35% for 2017.

111


The Company follows ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes, which prescribes a recognition threshold and a measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. Benefits from tax positions should be recognized in the financial statements only when it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained upon examination by the appropriate taxing authority that would have full knowledge of all relevant information. A tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is measured at the largest amount of 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. Previously recognized tax positions that no longer meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold should be derecognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in which that threshold is no longer met. ASC Topic 740 also provides guidance on the accounting for and disclosure of unrecognized tax benefits, interest and penalties. The Company has no history of expiring net operating loss carryforwards and is projecting significant pre-tax and financial taxable income in future years. The Company expects to fully realize its deferred tax assets in the future.

Income tax expense was lower during 2018 than 2017 largely due to discrete tax benefits related to tax accounting for a cost segregation study, excess tax benefits related to restricted stock and a state tax deferred tax asset (“DTA”) adjustment. The purpose of the cost segregation study was to analyze the costs included in various projects and recognize the benefit of recording tax depreciation in 2017 when the federal rate was higher. The purpose of the state DTA adjustment was due to an analysis of projected state apportionment after the 2017 acquisitions of First South Bank, Bank SNB and Southwest Bank were merged into Simmons Bank in 2018.

On December 22, 2017, the President signed tax reform legislation (the “2017 Act”) which included a broad range of tax reform provisions affecting businesses, including corporate tax rates, business deductions, and international tax provisions. The 2017 Act reduced the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017. Under US GAAP, deferred tax assets and liabilities are required to be measured at the enacted tax rate expected to apply when temporary differences are to be realized or settled and the effect of a change in tax law is recorded discretely as a component of the income tax provision related to continuing operations in the period of enactment. As a result, the Company was required to remeasure its deferred taxes as of December 22, 2017 based upon the new 21% tax rate and the change was recorded in the 2017 income tax provision. The 2017 Act resulted in a one-time non-cash adjustment to income of $11.5 million in 2017.

On December 22, 2017, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (“SAB 118”), which provided guidance on accounting for the tax effects of the 2017 Act. SAB 118 provided a measurement period that should not exceed one year from the 2017 Act enactment date for companies to complete the accounting under ASC 740, Income Taxes. The Company’s financial results for the year ended December 31, 2017 reflected the income tax effects for the 2017 Act including several provisional amounts based on reasonable estimates. Any items that were estimated in 2017 were finalized in 2018 with no material impact to the company’s federal income tax expense.
In February 2018, FASB issued ASU No. 2018-2, Income Statement-Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) (“ASU 2018-2”), that allowed a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the 2017 Act. Previous US GAAP required the remeasurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities as a result of a change in tax laws or rates to be presented in net income from continuing operations. Consequently, the original deferred


tax amount recorded through AOCI at the old rate will remain in AOCI despite the fact that its related deferred tax asset/liability will be reduced through continuing operations to reflect the new rate, resulting in “stranded” tax effects in AOCI. ASU 2018-2 required a reclassification from AOCI to retained earnings for those stranded tax effects resulting from the newly enacted federal corporate income tax rate. As permitted, the Company elected to early adopt the provisions of ASU 2018-2 during the fourth quarter 2017, which resulted in a reclassification from AOCI to retained earnings in the amount of $3.0 million.
The amount of unrecognized tax benefits may increase or decrease in the future for various reasons including adding amounts for current tax year positions, expiration of open income tax returns due to the statutes of limitation, changes in management’s judgment about the level of uncertainty, status of examinations, litigation and legislative activity and the addition or elimination of uncertain tax positions.

Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code imposes an annual limit on the ability of a corporation that undergoes an “ownership change” to use its U.S. net operating losses to reduce its tax liability. The Company has engaged in twofour tax-free reorganization transactions in which acquired net operating losses are limited pursuant to Section 382. In total, approximately $84.0$49.5 million of federal net operating losses subject to the IRC Section 382 annual limitation are expected to be utilized by the Company, of which $52.1 million is related to the Reliance acquisition that closed during second quarter 2019.Company. All of the acquired Reliance net operating lossesloss carryforwards are expected to be fully utilized by 2027, with the remaining acquired net operating loss carryforwards expected to be fully utilized by 2036.

The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction. The Company’s U.S. federal income tax returns are open and subject to examinations from the 20162019 tax year and forward. The Company’s various state income tax returns are generally open from the 20162019 and later tax return years based on individual state statute of limitations.

NOTE 11: SECURITIES SOLD UNDER AGREEMENTS TO REPURCHASE

The Company utilizes securities sold under agreements to repurchase to facilitate the needs of its customers and to facilitate secured short-term funding needs. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase are stated at the amount of cash received in connection with the transaction. The Company monitors collateral levels on a continuous basis. The Company may be required to provide additional collateral based on the fair value of the underlying securities. Securities pledged as collateral under repurchase agreements are maintained with the Company’s safekeeping agents.
 
The gross amount of recognized liabilities for repurchase agreements was $133.2$152.4 million and $95.5$170.4 million at December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively. The remaining contractual maturity of the securities sold under agreements to repurchase in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 20192022 and 20182021 is presented in the following tables. 
 Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements
(In thousands)Overnight and
Continuous
Up to 30 Days30-90 DaysGreater than
90 Days
Total
December 31, 2022     
Repurchase agreements:     
U.S. Government agencies$152,403 $— $— $— $152,403 
December 31, 2021     
Repurchase agreements:     
U.S. Government agencies$170,403 $— $— $— $170,403 
  Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements
(In thousands) 
Overnight and
Continuous
 Up to 30 Days 30-90 Days 
Greater than
90 Days
 Total
December 31, 2019          
Repurchase agreements:  
  
  
  
  
U.S. Government agencies $133,220
 $
 $
 $
 $133,220
           
December 31, 2018  
  
  
  
  
Repurchase agreements:  
  
  
  
  
U.S. Government agencies $95,542
 $
 $
 $
 $95,542
112






NOTE 12: OTHER BORROWINGS AND SUBORDINATED NOTES AND DEBENTURES
Debt at December 31, 20192022 and 20182021 consisted of the following components. components: 


(In thousands) 2019 2018
Other Borrowings  
  
FHLB advances, net of discount, due 2020 to 2033, 0.55% to 7.37%, secured by real estate loans $1,262,691
 $1,345,450
Other long-term debt 34,908
 
Total other borrowings 1,297,599
 1,345,450
     
Subordinated Notes and Debentures  
  
Subordinated notes payable, due 4/1/2028, fixed-to-floating rate (fixed rate of 5.00% through 3/31/2023, floating rate of 2.15% above the three month LIBOR rate, reset quarterly) 330,000
 330,000
Trust preferred securities, net of discount, due 9/15/2037, floating rate of 1.37% above the three month LIBOR rate, reset quarterly 10,310
 10,310
Trust preferred securities, net of discount, due 6/6/2037, floating rate of 1.57% above the three month LIBOR rate, reset quarterly, callable without penalty 10,310
 10,310
Trust preferred securities, due 12/15/2035, floating rate of 1.45% above the three month LIBOR rate, reset quarterly, callable without penalty 6,702
 6,702
Trust preferred securities, net of discount, due 6/15/2037, floating rate of 1.85% above the three month LIBOR rate, reset quarterly, callable without penalty 25,015
 
Trust preferred securities, net of discount, due 12/15/2036, floating rate of 1.85% above the three month LIBOR rate, reset quarterly, callable without penalty 3,004
 
Other subordinated debentures, due 12/31/36, floating rate of prime rate minus 1.1%, reset quarterly 5,927
 
Unamortized debt issuance costs (3,008) (3,372)
Total subordinated notes and debentures 388,260
 353,950
Total other borrowings and subordinated debt $1,685,859
 $1,699,400

(In thousands)20222021
Other Borrowings  
FHLB advances, net of discount, due 2023 to 2033, 1.88% to 5.53%, secured by real estate loans$838,487 $1,306,143 
Other long-term debt20,809 31,830 
Total other borrowings859,296 1,337,973 
Subordinated Notes and Debentures  
Subordinated notes payable, due 4/1/2028, fixed-to-floating rate (fixed rate of 5.00% through 3/31/2023, floating rate of 2.15% above the three month LIBOR rate, reset quarterly)330,000 330,000 
Subordinated notes payable, net of premium adjustments, due 7/31/2030, fixed-to-floating rate (fixed rate of 6.00% through 7/30/2025, floating rate of 5.92% above the three month SOFR rate, reset quarterly)37,285 — 
Trust preferred securities, net of discount, due 9/15/2037, floating rate of 1.37% above the three month LIBOR rate, reset quarterly— 10,310 
Trust preferred securities, net of discount, due 6/6/2037, floating rate of 1.57% above the three month LIBOR rate, reset quarterly, callable without penalty— 10,310 
Trust preferred securities, due 12/15/2035, floating rate of 1.45% above the three month LIBOR rate, reset quarterly, callable without penalty— 6,702 
Trust preferred securities, net of discount, due 6/15/2037, floating rate of 1.85% above the three month LIBOR rate, reset quarterly, callable without penalty— 25,329 
Trust preferred securities, net of discount, due 12/15/2036, floating rate of 1.85% above the three month LIBOR rate, reset quarterly, callable without penalty— 3,041 
Unamortized debt issuance costs(1,296)(1,561)
Total subordinated notes and debentures365,989 384,131 
Total other borrowings and subordinated debt$1,225,285 $1,722,104 
 
In March 2018, the Company issued $330.0 million in aggregate principal amount, of 5.00% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes (“the Notes”) at a public offering price equal to 100% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes. The Company incurred $3.6 million in debt issuance costs related to the offering during March 2018. The Notes will mature on April 1, 2028 and will bear interest at an initial fixed rate of 5.00% per annum, payable semi-annually in arrears. From and including April 1, 2023 to, but excluding, the maturity date or the date of earlier redemption, the interest rate will reset quarterly to an annual interest rate equal to the then-current three month LIBORLondon Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) rate plus 215 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears. The Notes will be subordinated in right of payment to the payment of the Company’s other existing and future senior indebtedness, including all of its general creditors. The Notes are obligations of the Company only and are not obligations of, and are not guaranteed by, any of its subsidiaries. During 2018, theThe Company used a portion of the net proceeds from the sale of the Notes to repay certain outstanding indebtedness, including the amounts borrowed under the Revolving Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), certain trust preferred securities, both discussed below, and unsecured debt from correspondent banks.indebtedness. The Notes qualify for Tier 2 capital treatment.

In 2017,The terms of the Company’s Notes utilize the three month LIBOR rate to determine the interest rate and expense due each quarter. The Company entered into the Credit Agreement with U.S. Bank National Associationis currently reviewing all applicable documents and executed an unsecured Revolving Credit Note pursuant to which the Company may borrow, prepay and re-borrow up to $75.0 million, the proceeds of which were primarily used to pay off amounts outstanding under a term note assumedworking with the First Texas acquisition. The Credit Agreement contained customary representations, warranties,debt holders and covenants ofall relevant parties to determine the Company, including, amongalternate interest rate index to be utilized, or other things, covenants that impose various financial ratio requirements. In October 2018, the Company and U.S. Bank National Association entered into a First Amendment to the Credit Agreement, which extended the expiration date from October 5, 2018 to October 4, 2019, reduced the $75.0 million to $50.0 million, and increased the commitment fee on the unused portion from an annual rate of 0.25% to 0.30%. In December 2018, the Company entered into a Second Amendment to the Credit Agreement that clarified the financial metrics contained in certain affirmative covenants are evaluated on a consolidated basis. On October 4, 2019, all amounts borrowed, together with applicable interest, fees, and other amounts owed by the Company were due and payable. The balance due under the Credit Agreement at the expiration date was 0. The Company did not renew the Credit Agreement upon the expiration date.impacts, when LIBOR is discontinued.


The Company assumed subordinated debt of $33.9 million and $6.7 million in connection with the Landrum and Hardeman acquisitions in October 2019 and May 2017, respectively. In connection with the OKSB and First Texas acquisitions in October 2017, the Company assumed subordinated debt in an aggregate principal amount, net of discounts,premium adjustments, of $77.3$37.4 million allin connection with the Spirit acquisition in April 2022 (the “Spirit Notes”). The Spirit Notes will mature on July 31, 2030, and initially bear interest at a fixed annual rate of 6.00%, payable quarterly, in arrears, to, but excluding, July 31, 2025. From and including July 31, 2025, to, but excluding, the maturity date or earlier redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly to an interest rate per annum equal to a benchmark rate, which is expected to be the then-current three-month Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”), as published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (provided, that in the event the benchmark rate is less than zero, the benchmark rate will be deemed to be zero) plus 592 basis points, payable quarterly, in arrears.


113


The Company had total FHLB advances of $838.5 million at December 31, 2022, of which was repaid by the Notes and the Credit Agreement, previously discussed.

At December 31, 2019, the Company had $1.25 billion of Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) advances outstanding with original or expected maturities of one year or less, all of which$835.0 million are FHLB Owns the Option (“FOTO”) advances. FOTO advances are a low cost, fixed-rate source of funding in return for granting to FHLB the flexibility to choose a termination date earlier than the maturity date. Typically, FOTO exercise dates follow a specified lockout period atdate and therefore are classified as short-term advances by the beginning ofCompany. At December 31, 2022, the term when FHLB cannot terminate the FOTO advance. If FHLB exercises its option to terminate the FOTO advance at one of the specified option exercise dates, there is no termination or prepayment fee, and replacement funding will be available at then-prevailing market rates, subject to FHLB’s credit and collateral requirements. The Company’s FOTO advances outstanding at the end of the year have ten years to fifteen years maturity dates with lockout periods that have expired and, as a result, are considered and monitored by the Company as short-term advances. The possibility of the FHLB exercising the options is analyzed by the Company along with the market expected rate outcome.
The Company had total FHLB advances of $1.26 billion at December 31, 2019, with approximately $3.2 billion of additional advances available from the FHLB. The FHLB advances arewere secured by mortgage loans and investment securities totaling approximately $5.9$6.6 billion atand the Company had approximately $5.4 billion of additional advances available from the FHLB. At December 31, 2019.2022, the Company had $785.0 million of FHLB advances outstanding with original or expected maturities of one year or less.
 
TheDuring the third quarter of 2022, the Company redeemed the five issuances of trust preferred securities are tax-advantaged issues that qualified for Tier 1 capital treatment until December 31, 2017, whenwhich had an outstanding aggregate principal amount of $56.2 million. The Company recorded a loss of $365,000 related to the Company reached $15 billion in assets. They still qualify for inclusion as Tier 2 capital at December 31, 2019. Distributions on these securities are included in interest expense on long-term debt.early retirement of debt, which represented the unamortized purchase discounts associated with the previously acquired trust preferred securities. Each of the trusts iswas a statutory business trust organized for the sole purpose of issuing trust securities and investing the proceeds thereof in junior subordinated debentures of the Company, the sole asset of each trust. The preferred securities of each trust representrepresented preferred beneficial interests in the assets of the respective trusts and arewere subject to mandatory redemption upon payment of the junior subordinated debentures held by the trust. The common securities of each trust arewere wholly-owned by the Company. Each trust’s ability to pay amounts due on theThe trust preferred securities is solely dependent upon the Company making payments on the related junior subordinated debentures. The Company’s obligations under the junior subordinated securities and other relevant trust agreements, in aggregate, constitute a full and unconditional guarantee by the Company of each respective trust’s obligations under the trust securities issued by each respective trust.were tax-advantaged issues that qualified for inclusion as Tier 2 capital.

The Company’s long-term debt primarily includes subordinated debt and long-term FHLB advances with an original maturity of greater than one year.other notes payable. Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt at December 31, 2019,2022, are as follows:
Year(In thousands)
2023$1,768 
20241,822 
20251,822 
20261,824 
20271,920 
Thereafter381,129 
Total$390,285 
Year(In thousands)
2020$3,299
20213,016
20222,187
20232,366
20242,446
Thereafter422,545
Total$435,859


NOTE 13: CAPITAL STOCK

On February 27, 2009, at a special meeting, the Company’s shareholders approved an amendment to the Articles of Incorporation to establish 40,040,000 authorized shares of preferred stock, $0.01 par value. TheOn April 27, 2022, the Company’s shareholders approved an amendment to the Company’s Articles of Incorporation to remove an $80.0 million cap on the aggregate liquidation preference of all shares of preferred stock cannot exceed $80,000,000.

On February 12, 2019, the Company filed its Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (“February Amended Articles”)associated with the Arkansas Secretary of State. The February Amended Articles classified and designated three series of preferred stock out of the Corporation’s authorized preferred stock: Series A Preferred Stock, Par Value $0.01 Per Share (having 40,000 authorized shares); Series B Preferred Stock, Par Value $0.01 Per Share (having 2,000.02 authorized shares); and 7% Perpetual Convertible Preferred Stock, Par Value $0.01 Per Share, Series C (having 140 authorized shares).stock.



On October 29, 2019, the Company filed its Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (“October Amended Articles”) with the Arkansas Secretary of State. The October Amended Articles classified and designated Series D Preferred Stock, Par Value $0.01 Per Share, out of the Company’s authorized preferred stock. The October Amended Articles also canceledOn November 30, 2021, the Company’s 7% Perpetual ConvertibleCompany redeemed all of the Series D Preferred Stock, Par Value $0.01 Per Share, Series C Preferred Stock, of which 0 shares were ever issued or outstanding.including accrued and unpaid dividends.
 
On January 18, 2018, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a two-for-one stock split of the Company’s outstanding Class A common stock (“Common Stock”) in the form of a 100% stock dividend for shareholders of record as of the close of business on January 30, 2018. The new shares were distributed by the Company’s transfer agent, Computershare, and the Company’s common stock began trading on a split-adjusted basis on the Nasdaq Global Select Market on February 9, 2018. All previously reported share and per share data included in filings subsequent to February 8, 2018 are restated to reflect the retroactive effect of this 2-for-one stock split.

On March 19, 2018,31, 2021, the Company filed a shelf registration with the SEC. The shelf registration statement provides increased flexibility and more efficient access to raise capital from time to time through the sale of common stock, preferred stock, debt securities, depository shares, warrants, purchase contracts, purchase units, subscription rights, units or a combination thereof, subject to market conditions. Specific terms and prices are determined at the time of any offering under a separate prospectus supplement that the Company is required to file with the SEC at the time of the specific offering.

On April 19, 2018,27, 2022, shareholders of the Company approved an increase in the number of authorized shares of its Class A common stock from 120,000,000175,000,000 to 175,000,000.350,000,000.
 

114


On July 23, 2012, the Company approved a stock repurchase program which authorized the repurchase of up to 1,700,000 shares (split adjusted) of common stock. On October 22, 2019, the Company announced a new stock repurchase program (the “Program”“2019 Program”) that replaced the stock repurchase program approved on July 23, 2012, under which the Company may repurchase up to $60,000,000$60.0 million of its Class A common stock currently issued and outstanding. On March 5, 2020, the Company announced an amendment to the 2019 Program that increased the maximum amount that may be repurchased under the 2019 Program from $60.0 million to $180.0 million. Effective July 23, 2021, the Company’s Board of Directors approved another amendment to the 2019 Program that increased the amount of the Company’s Class A common stock that may be repurchased under the 2019 Program from a maximum of $180.0 million to a maximum of $276.5 million and extended the term of the 2019 Program from October 31, 2021, to October 31, 2022.

During January 2022, the Company substantially exhausted the repurchase capacity under the 2019 Program. As a result, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase program in January 2022 (the “2022 Program”) under which the Company may repurchase up to $175.0 million of its Class A common stock currently issued and outstanding. The 2022 Program will terminate on OctoberJanuary 31, 20212024 (unless terminated sooner).

During 2022, the Company repurchased 513,725 shares at an average price of $31.25 per share under the 2019 Program and 3,919,037 shares at an average price of $24.26 per share under the 2022 Program, respectively. The 2022 Program repurchases were all completed during the second and third quarters of 2022. Market conditions and the Company’s capital needs will drive decisions regarding additional, future stock repurchases. The Company repurchased 4,562,469 shares at an average price of $29.03 per share under the 2019 Program during 2021.

Under the 2022 Program, which replaced the 2019 Program, the Company may repurchase shares of its common stock through open market and privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. The timing, pricing, and amount of any repurchases under the 2022 Program will be determined by the Company’s management at its discretion based on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, trading volume and market price of the Company’s common stock, corporate considerations, the Company’s working capital and investment requirements, general market and economic conditions, and legal requirements. The 2022 Program does not obligate the Company to repurchase any common stock and may be modified, discontinued, or suspended at any time without prior notice. The Company anticipates funding for this 2022 Program to come from available sources of liquidity, including cash on hand and future cash flow.

During 2019, we repurchased 390,000 shares at an average price of $25.97 under the Program. We had 0 stock repurchases during 2018.

NOTE 14: TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES

At December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, Simmons Bank had extensions of credit to executive officers and directors and to companies in which Simmons Bank’s executive officers or directors were principal owners in the amount of $20.1$3.7 million at December 31, 20192022 and $66.4$6.2 million at December 31, 2018.2021.
(In thousands)2019 2018
Balance, beginning of year$66,391
 $58,867
New extensions of credit2,503
 7,661
Repayments(48,756) (137)
Balance, end of year$20,138
 $66,391

(In thousands)20222021
Balance, beginning of year$6,216 $6,536 
New extensions of credit180 1,487 
Repayments(2,724)(1,807)
Balance, end of year$3,672 $6,216 
 
In management’s opinion, such loans and other extensions of credit, deposits and vendor contracts (which were not material) were made in the ordinary course of business and were made on substantially the same terms (including interest rates and collateral) as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with unrelated persons or through a competitive bid process. Further, in management’s opinion, these extensions of credit did not involve more than the normal risk of collectability or present other unfavorable features.


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115



NOTE 15: EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Retirement Plans
 
The Company offers a qualified 401(k) Plan in which the Company makes matching contributions to encourage employees to save money for their retirement. The 401(k) Plan covers substantially all employees. Under the terms of the 401(k) Plan, employees may defer a portion of their eligible pay, up to the maximum allowed by I.R.SI.R.S. regulation, and the Company matches 100% of the first 3% of compensation and 50% of the next 2% of compensation for a total match of 4% of eligible pay for each participant who defers 5% or more of his or her eligible pay. Additionally, the Company may make profit-sharing contributions to the 401(k) Plan which are allocated among participants based upon 401(k) Plan compensation without regard to participant contributions. Contribution expense to the plan totaled $13,021,000, $10,769,000$13.0 million, $13.9 million and $6,343,000$10.3 million in 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, respectively.
 
The Company also provides deferred compensation agreements with certain active and retired officers. The agreements provide monthly payments of retirement compensation for either stated periods or for the life of the participant. The charges to income for the plans were $2,294,000$2.2 million for 2019, $2,309,0002022, $2.7 million for 20182021 and $1,596,000$2.7 million for 2017.2020. Such charges reflect the straight-line accrual over the employment period of the present value of benefits due each participant, as of their full eligibility date, using an appropriate discount factor.
 
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
 
The Company established an Employee Stock Purchase Plan in 2015 which generally allows participants to make contributions of up to $25,000 per year, for the purpose of acquiring the Company’s common stock. At the end of each plan year, full shares of the Company’s stock are purchased for each employee based on that employee’s contributions. The Company has issued both general and special stock offerings under the plan. Substantially all employees are eligible for the general stock offering, under which full shares of the Company’s stock are purchased for an amount equal to 95% of their fair market value at the end of the plan year, or, if lower, 95% of their fair market value at the beginning of the plan year.
 
The special stock offering is available to substantially all non-highly compensated employees with at least six months of service, and these employees may allocate up to $10,000 to this offering. Under the special stock offering, full shares of the Company’s stock are purchased for an amount equal to 85% of their fair market value at the end of the plan year, or, if lower, 85% of their fair market value at the beginning of the plan year.

Stock-Based Compensation Plans
 
The Company’s Board of Directors has adopted various stock-based compensation plans. The plans provide for the grant of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and performance stock units. Pursuant to the plans, shares are reserved for future issuance by the Company upon exercise of stock options or awardingawards of bonus sharesrestricted stock, restricted stock units, or performance stock units granted to directors, officers and other key employees.
 
Stock-based compensation expense for all stock-based compensation awards is based on the grant date fair value. For all awards except stock option awards, the grant date fair value is the market value per share as of the grant date. For stock option awards, the fair value is estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. This model requires the input of highly subjective assumptions, changes to which can materially affect the fair value estimate. Additionally, there may be other factors that would otherwise have a significant effect on the value of employee stock options granted but are not considered by the model. Accordingly, while management believes that the Black-Scholes option-pricing model provides a reasonable estimate of fair value, the model does not necessarily provide the best single measure of fair value for the Company’s employee stock options.
 
The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model that uses various assumptions. Expected volatility is based on historical volatility of the Company’s stock and other factors. The Company uses historical data to estimate option exercise and employee termination within the valuation model. The expected term of options granted is derived from the output of the option valuation model and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant, and are based partially on historical experience.


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Share and per share information regarding stock-based compensation plans has been adjusted to reflect the effects of the Company’s 2-for-one stock split which became effective on February 8, 2018. The table below summarizes the transactions under the Company’s active stock compensation plans at December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, and changes during the years then ended:
  
Stock Options
Outstanding
 
Stock Awards
Outstanding
 
Stock Units
Outstanding
(Shares in thousands) Number of Shares 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 Number of Shares 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 Number of Shares 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
Balance, December 31, 2016 946
 $21.43
 278
 $20.48
 406
 $22.70
Granted 
 
 
 
 906
 28.86
Stock options exercised (122) 17.66
 
 
 
 
Stock awards/units vested (earned) 
 
 (91) 19.40
 (449) 27.13
Forfeited/expired (12) 22.67
 (25) 21.91
 (35) 25.76
             
Balance, December 31, 2017 812
 21.98
 162
 20.85
 828
 26.13
Granted 
 
 
 
 429
 29.16
Stock options exercised (112) 19.22
 
 
 
 
Stock awards/units vested (earned) 
 
 (80) 20.41
 (311) 25.56
Forfeited/expired (5) 21.73
 (10) 20.12
 (129) 27.95
             
Balance, December 31, 2018 695
 22.42
 72
 21.45
 817
 27.65
Granted 
 
 
 
 842
 26.05
Stock options exercised (3) 12.79
 
 
 
 
Stock awards/units vested (earned) 
 
 (49) 20.72
 (405) 26.75
Forfeited/expired 
 
 (2) 21.82
 (102) 28.10
             
Balance, December 31, 2019 692
 $22.46
 21
 $23.19
 1,152
 $26.79
             
Exercisable, December 31, 2019 692
 $22.46
 

  
 

  

 Stock Options
Outstanding
Non-vested Stock Awards Outstanding
Non-vested Stock Units Outstanding (1)
(Shares in thousands)Number of SharesWeighted
Average
Exercise
Price
Number of SharesWeighted Average Grant-Date Fair ValueNumber of SharesWeighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value
Balance, December 31, 2019692 $22.46 21 $23.19 1,152 $26.79 
Granted— — — — 568 21.69 
Stock options exercised(1)10.71 — — — — 
Stock awards/units vested (earned)— — (16)23.41 (550)25.90 
Forfeited/expired(33)22.49 — — (138)26.12 
Balance, December 31, 2020658 22.48 22.35 1,032 24.53 
Granted— — — — 674 28.94 
Stock options exercised(185)22.42 — — — — 
Stock awards/units vested (earned)— — (3)22.48 (434)25.61 
Forfeited/expired— — — — (87)25.86 
Balance, December 31, 2021473 22.50 22.20 1,185 26.51 
Granted— — — — 719 26.42 
Stock options exercised(3)13.30 — — — — 
Stock awards/units vested (earned)— — (2)22.20 (609)26.30 
Forfeited/expired— — — — (98)25.68 
Balance, December 31, 2022470 $22.56 — $— 1,197 $26.63 
Exercisable, December 31, 2022470 $22.56   
 _________________________
(1)    All stock units (including performance stock units).
The following table summarizes information about stock options under the plans outstanding at December 31, 2019: 2022:
Options OutstandingOptions Exercisable
Range of Exercise PricesNumber
of Shares
(In thousands)
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (Years)
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
Number
of Shares
(In thousands)
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
$10.65 $10.65 10.04$10.651$10.65
20.29 20.29 471.8920.294720.29
22.20 22.20 512.2322.205122.20
22.75 22.75 2932.4722.7529322.75
23.51 23.51 712.8923.517123.51
24.07 24.07 72.7124.07724.07
$10.65 $24.07 4702.45$22.56470$22.56
      Options Outstanding Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices 
Number
of Shares
(In thousands)
 
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (Years)
 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Number
of Shares
(In thousands)
 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
$9.46
  $9.46
 1 2.04 $9.46 1 $9.46
10.65
  10.65
 3 3.07 10.65 3 10.65
10.76
  10.76
 1 0.05 10.76 1 10.76
20.29
  20.29
 71 5.00 20.29 71 20.29
20.36
  20.36
 2 4.88 20.36 2 20.36
22.20
  22.20
 74 5.23 22.20 74 22.20
22.75
  22.75
 436 5.61 22.75 436 22.75
23.51
  23.51
 97 6.05 23.51 97 23.51
24.07
  24.07
 7 5.71 24.07 7 24.07
      
 
 
 
 
$9.46
  $24.07
 692 5.55 $22.46 692 $22.46
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The table below summarizes the Company’s performance stock unit activity for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017:2020:

(In thousands)Performance Stock Units
Non-vested, December 31, 2016181
Granted57
Vested (earned)(57)
Forfeited(4)
Non-vested, December 31, 2017177
Granted72
Vested (earned)(55)
Forfeited(17)
Non-vested, December 31, 2018177
Granted118
Vested (earned)(93)
Forfeited(3)
Non-vested, December 31, 2019199
Granted122 
Vested (earned)(81)
Forfeited(18)
Non-vested, December 31, 2020222 
Granted171 
Vested (earned)(57)
Forfeited(5)
Non-vested, December 31, 2021331 
Granted184 
Vested (earned)(149)
Forfeited(14)
Non-vested, December 31, 2022352 


Stock-based compensation expense was $12,921,000$15.3 million in 2019, $11,227,0002022, $15.9 million in 20182021 and $11,763,000$13.2 million in 2017.2020. Stock-based compensation expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service period for all stock-based awards. There was 0no unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to stock options at December 31, 2019.2022. Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to non-vested stock awards and stock units was $20,852,000$17.1 million at December 31, 2019.2022. At such date, the weighted-average period over which this unrecognized expense is expected to be recognized was 1.91.6 years.
 
The intrinsic value of stock options outstanding and stock options exercisable at December 31, 20192022 was $2,993,000.$71,000. Aggregate intrinsic value represents the difference between the Company’s closing stock price on the last trading day of the period, which was $26.79$21.58 at December 31, 2019,2022, and the exercise price multiplied by the number of options outstanding. There were 3,0502,750 stock options exercised in 20192022 with no intrinsic value. There were 184,888 stock options exercised in 2021 with an intrinsic value of $43,000.$1.3 million. There were 111,728900 stock options exercised in 20182020 with an intrinsic value of $561,000. There were 122,012 stock options exercised in 2017 with an intrinsic value of $1,329,000.$10,000. 
 
The fair value of the Company’s employee stock options granted is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. This model requires the input of highly subjective assumptions, changes to which can materially affect the fair value estimate. There were 0no stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017.2020.

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NOTE 16: ADDITIONAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

The following is a summary of the Company’s additional cash flow information during the years ended December 31: 
(In thousands)202220212020
Interest paid$134,980 $82,914 $123,995 
Income taxes paid25,084 55,202 47,777 
Transfers of loans to foreclosed assets held for sale1,219 4,322 10,712 
Transfers of premises to foreclosed assets and other real estate owned— — 3,120 
Transfers of premises to premises held for sale— — 11,200 
Transfers of other real estate owned to premises held for sale— — 4,163 
Transfer of premises held for sale to other real estate owned— 4,368 — 
Transfer of premises held for sale to premises— 5,610 — 
Transfers of assets held for sale to other assets100 — — 
Transfers of available-for-sale to held-to-maturity securities1,992,542 500,809 — 
Transfers of loans to other assets held for sale— — 114,925 
Transfers of deposits to other liabilities held for sale— — 213,025 
(In thousands)2019 2018 2017
Interest paid$182,541
 $122,801
 $39,384
Income taxes paid51,999
 25,718
 35,770
Transfers of loans to foreclosed assets held for sale4,760
 16,858
 6,983
Transfers of premises to foreclosed assets and other real estate owned647
 3,690
 5,422
Transfers of premises held for sale to foreclosed assets and other real estate owned
 
 3,188
Right-of-use lease assets obtained in exchange for lessee operating lease liabilities (adoption of ASU 2016-02)32,757
 
 
Transfers of held-to-maturity to available-for-sale securities216,373
 
 
Transfers of loans to other assets held for sale259,939
 
 
Transfers of deposits to other liabilities held for sale159,853
 
 


NOTE 17: OTHER INCOME AND OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES

Other income for the year ended December 31, 20192022 was $58.5 million and primarily consisted of the gain on sale of Visa Inc. class B common stock of $42.9$27.4 million. Other income for the yearsyear ended December 31, 2018 and 20172021 was $19.9$35.3 million and $19.3included the gain on sale related to the Illinois Branch Sale of $5.3 million respectively.and other income for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $39.9 million, which included the gain on sales related to the Texas Branch Sale and Colorado Branch Sale of $8.1 million.

Other operating expenses consisted of the following:following during the years ended December 31:
(In thousands)202220212020
Professional services$19,138 $18,921 $18,688 
Postage8,955 8,276 7,538 
Telephone6,394 6,234 8,833 
Credit card expense12,243 11,112 10,199 
Marketing28,870 22,234 19,396 
Software and technology40,906 40,608 39,724 
Operating supplies2,556 2,766 3,322 
Amortization of intangibles15,915 13,494 13,495 
Branch right sizing expense3,475 (537)14,097 
Other expense41,241 30,454 29,909 
Total other operating expenses$179,693 $153,562 $165,201 
(In thousands) 2019 2018 2017
Professional services $16,897
 $16,685
 $19,500
Postage 6,363
 5,785
 4,686
Telephone 7,685
 5,947
 4,262
Credit card expense 16,163
 14,338
 12,188
Marketing 16,499
 8,410
 11,141
Software and technology 25,146
 15,558
 2,204
Operating supplies 2,322
 2,346
 1,980
Amortization of intangibles 11,805
 11,009
 7,668
Branch right sizing expense 3,129
 1,341
 434
Other expense 32,843
 30,156
 24,816
Total other operating expenses $138,852
 $111,575
 $88,879

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NOTE 18: FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.
 
ASC Topic 820 defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The guidance also establishes a fair value hierarchy that requires the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. Topic 820 describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

Level 1 Inputs – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 Inputs – Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
Level 3 Inputs – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

Level 2 Inputs – Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
Level 3 Inputs – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.
In general, fair value is based upon quoted market prices, where available. If such quoted market prices are not available, fair value is based upon 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 to 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 therefore, estimates of fair value after the balance sheet date may differ significantly from the amounts presented herein. A more detailed description of the valuation methodologies used for assets and liabilities measured at fair value, as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy, is set forth below.

Following is a description of the inputs and valuation methodologies used for assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis and recognized in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, as well as the general classification of such assets pursuant to the valuation hierarchy.
 
Available-for-sale securities – Where quoted market prices are available in an active market, securities are classified within Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. Level 1 securities would include highly liquid government bonds, mortgage products and exchange traded equities.certain other financial products. Other securities classified as available-for-sale are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. For these securities, the Company obtains fair value measurements 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 the security’s terms and conditions, among other things. In order to ensure the fair values are consistent with ASC Topic 820, the Company periodically checks the fair values by comparing them to another pricing source, such as Bloomberg. The availability of pricing confirms Level 2 classification in the fair value hierarchy. The third-party pricing service is subject to an annual review of internal controls (SSAE 16), which is made available for the Company’s review.controls. In certain cases where Level 1 or Level 2 inputs are not available, securities are classified within Level 3 of the hierarchy. The Company’s investment in U.S. Treasury securities, if any, is reported at fair value utilizing Level 1 inputs. The remainder of the Company’s available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs.

Mortgage loans held for sale – Mortgage loans held for sale are reported at fair value on an aggregate basis. Adjustments to fair value are recognized monthly and reflected in earnings. In determining the fair value of loans held for sale, the Company may consider outstanding investor commitments, discounted cash flow analyses with market assumptions or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Such loans are classified within either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Where assumptions are made using significant unobservable inputs, such loans held for sale are classified as Level 3. At December 31, 2022 and 2021, the aggregate fair value of mortgage loans held for sale exceeded their cost.
 
Derivative instruments – The Company’s derivative instruments are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. The Company obtains fair value measurements from dealer quotes.

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Other assets and liabilities held for sale - The Company’s other assets and liabilities held for sale are reported at fair value utilizing Level 3 inputs. See Note 4, Other Assets and Other Liabilities Held for Sale.




The following table sets forth the Company’s financial assets by level within the fair value hierarchy that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018.2021. 
    Fair Value Measurements
(In thousands) Fair Value 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
December 31, 2019  
  
  
  
Available-for-sale securities  
  
  
  
U.S. Treasury $449,729
 $449,729
 $
 $
U.S. Government agencies 194,249
 
 194,249
 
Mortgage-backed securities 1,742,945
 
 1,742,945
 
States and political subdivisions 880,524
 
 880,524
 
Other securities 185,891
 
 185,891
 
Other assets held for sale 260,332
 
 
 260,332
Derivative asset 14,903
 
 14,903
 
Other liabilities held for sale (159,853) 
 
 (159,853)
Derivative liability (12,650) 
 (12,650) 
         
December 31, 2018  
  
  
  
Available-for-sale securities  
  
  
  
U.S. Government agencies $154,301
 $
 $154,301
 $
Mortgage-backed securities 1,522,900
 
 1,522,900
 
States and political subdivisions 314,843
 
 314,843
 
Other securities 159,708
 
 159,708
 
Other assets held for sale 1,790
 
 
 1,790
Derivative asset 6,242
 
 6,242
 
Other liabilities held for sale (162) 
 
 (162)
Derivative liability (5,283) 
 (5,283) 

  Fair Value Measurements
(In thousands)Fair ValueQuoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
December 31, 2022    
Available-for-sale securities    
U.S. Treasury$2,197 $2,197 $— $— 
U.S. Government agencies184,279 — 184,279 — 
Mortgage-backed securities2,542,902 — 2,542,902 — 
State and political subdivisions871,074 — 871,074 — 
Other securities252,402 — 252,402 — 
Mortgage loans held for sale3,486 — — 3,486 
Derivative asset139,323 — 139,323 — 
Derivative liability(34,440)— (34,440)— 
December 31, 2021    
Available-for-sale securities    
U.S. Treasury$300 $300 $— $— 
U.S. Government agencies364,641 — 364,641 — 
Mortgage-backed securities4,448,616 — 4,448,616 — 
State and political subdivisions1,819,658 — 1,819,658 — 
Other securities480,330 — 480,330 — 
Mortgage loans held for sale36,356 — — 36,356 
Derivative asset25,852 — 25,852 — 
Derivative liability(15,443)— (15,443)— 
 
Certain financial assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis; that is, the instruments are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances (for example, when there is evidence of impairment). Financial assetscircumstances. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include the following:
 
ImpairedIndividually assessed loans (collateral dependent)(collateral-dependent)Loan impairment is reportedWhen the Company has a specific expectation to initiate, or has initiated, foreclosure proceedings, and when full payment under the loan terms is not expected. Allowable methods for determining the amount of impairment include estimating fair value using the fair value of the collateral for collateral-dependent loans. If the impaired loan is identified as collateral dependent, then the fair value method of measuring the amount of impairment is utilized. This method requires obtaining a current independent appraisal of the collateral and applying a discount factor to the value. A portion of the allowance for loan losses is allocated to impaired loans if the value of such loans is deemed to be less than the unpaid balance. If these allocations cause the allowance for loan losses to require an increase, such increase is reported as a component of the provision for loan losses. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the uncollectabilityrepayment of a loan is confirmed. Impairedexpected to be substantially dependent on the liquidation of underlying collateral, the relationship is deemed collateral-dependent. Fair value of the loan is determined by establishing an allowance for credit loss for any exposure based on the valuation of the underlying collateral. The valuation of the collateral is determined by either an independent third-party appraisal or other collateral analysis. Discounts can be made by the Company based upon the overall evaluation of the independent appraisal. Collateral-dependent loans that are collateral dependent are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy when impairment is determined usingdue to the unobservable inputs used in determining their fair value method.such as collateral values and the borrower’s underlying financial condition. Collateral values supporting the individually assessed loans are evaluated quarterly for updates to appraised values or adjustments due to non-current valuations.
Appraisals are updated at renewal, if not more frequently, for all collateral dependent loans that are deemed impaired by way of impairment testing. Impairment testing is performed on all loans over $1.5 million rated Substandard or worse, all existing impaired loans regardless of size and all TDRs. All collateral dependent impaired loans meeting these thresholds have had updated appraisals or internally prepared evaluations within the last one to two years and these updated valuations are considered in the quarterly review and discussion of the corporate Special Asset Committee. On targeted CRE loans, appraisals/internally prepared valuations may be updated before the typical 1-3 year balloon/maturity period. If an updated valuation results in decreased value, a specific (ASC 310) impairment is placed against the loan, or a partial charge-down is initiated, depending on the circumstances and anticipation of the loan’s ability to remain a going concern, possibility of foreclosure, certain market factors, etc.


Foreclosed assets and other real estate owned – Foreclosed assets and other real estate owned are reported at fair value, less estimated costs to sell. At foreclosure, if the fair value, less estimated costs to sell, of the real estate acquired is less than the Company’s recorded investment in the related loan, a write-down is recognized through a charge to the allowance for loancredit losses. Additionally, valuations are periodically performed by management and any subsequent reduction in value is recognized by a charge to income. The fair value of foreclosed assets and other real estate owned is estimated using Level 3 inputs based on unobservable market data. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the fair value of foreclosed assets and other real estate owned less estimated costs to sell was $19.1 million and $25.6 million, respectively.


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The significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) used in the fair value measurement of collateral for collateral-dependent impaired loans and foreclosed assets primarily relate to the specialized discounting criteria applied to the borrower’s reported amount of collateral. The amount of the collateral discount depends upon the condition and marketability of the collateral, as well as other factors which may affect the collectability of the loan. Management’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the asset. It is reasonably possible that a change in the estimated fair value for instruments measured using Level 3 inputs could occur in the future. As the Company’s primary objective in the event of default would be to liquidate the collateral to settle the outstanding balance of the loan, collateral that is less marketable would receive a larger discount. During the reported periods, collateral discounts ranged from 10% to 40% for commercial and residential real estate collateral.
Mortgage loans held for sale – Mortgage loans held for sale are reported at fair value if, on an aggregate basis, the fair value of the loans is less than cost. In determining whether the fair value of loans held for sale is less than cost when quoted market prices are not available, the Company may consider outstanding investor commitments, discounted cash flow analyses with market assumptions or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Such loans are classified within either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Where assumptions are made using significant unobservable inputs, such loans held for sale are classified as Level 3. At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the aggregate fair value of mortgage loans held for sale exceeded their cost. Accordingly, 0 mortgage loans held for sale were marked down and reported at fair value.
 
The following table sets forth the Company’s financial assets by level within the fair value hierarchy that were measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018.2021.
 
    Fair Value Measurements Using
(In thousands) Fair Value 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
December 31, 2019  
  
  
  
Impaired loans (1) (2) (collateral dependent)
 $49,190
 $
 $
 $49,190
Foreclosed assets and other real estate owned (1)
 18,798
 
 
 18,798
         
December 31, 2018  
  
  
  
Impaired loans (1) (2) (collateral dependent)
 $17,789
 $
 $
 $17,789
Foreclosed assets and other real estate owned (1)
 23,714
 
 
 23,714

  Fair Value Measurements Using
(In thousands)Fair ValueQuoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
December 31, 2022    
Individually assessed loans (1) (2) (collateral-dependent)
$70,926 $— $— $70,926 
Foreclosed assets and other real estate owned (1)
2,418 — — 2,418 
December 31, 2021    
Individually assessed loans (1) (2) (collateral-dependent)
$47,089 $— $— $47,089 
Foreclosed assets and other real estate owned (1)
4,875 — — 4,875 
______________________
(1)    These amounts represent the resulting carrying amounts on the consolidated balance sheets for impaired collateral dependentcollateral-dependent loans and foreclosed assets and other real estate owned for which fair value re-measurements took place during the period.
(2)    Specific allocationsIdentified reserves of $1,297,000$5,214,000 and $2,738,000$4,214,000 were related to the impaired collateral dependentcollateral-dependent loans for which fair value re-measurements took place during the periodsyears ended December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively.
 
ASC Topic 825, Financial Instruments, requires disclosure in annual and interim financial statements of the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities, including those financial assets and financial liabilities that are not measured and reported at fair value on a recurring basis or nonrecurring basis. The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments not previously disclosed.



Cash and cash equivalents – The carrying amount for cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value (Level 1).

Interest bearing balances due from banks – The fair value of interest bearing balances due from banks – time is estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies the rates currently offered on deposits of similar remaining maturities (Level 2).
 
Held-to-maturity securities – Fair values for held-to-maturity securities equal quoted market prices, if available, such as for highly liquid government bonds (Level 1). If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are estimated based on quoted market prices of similar securities. For these securities, the Company obtains fair value measurements 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 the security’s terms and conditions, among other things (Level 2). In certain cases where Level 1 or Level 2 inputs are not available, securities are classified within Level 3 of the hierarchy.
122


Loans and other loans held for sale – The fair value of loans is estimated by discounting the future cash flows, using the current rates at which similar loans would be made to borrowers with similar credit ratings and for the same remaining maturities. Additional factors considered include the type of loan and related collateral, variable or fixed rate, classification status, remaining term, interest rate, historical delinquencies, loan to value ratios, current market rates and remaining loan balance. The loans were grouped together according to similar characteristics and were treated in the aggregate when applying various valuation techniques. The discount rates used for loans were based on current market rates for new originations of similar loans. Estimated credit losses were also factored into the projected cash flows of the loans. The fair value of loans is also estimated on an exit price basis incorporating the above factors (Level 3).
 
Deposits – The fair value of demand deposits, savings accounts and money market deposits is the amount payable on demand at the reporting date (i.e., their carrying amount) (Level 2). The fair value of fixed-maturity time deposits is estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies the rates currently offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities (Level 3).
 
Federal Funds purchased, securities sold under agreement to repurchase and short-term debt – The carrying amount for Federal funds purchased, securities sold under agreement to repurchase and short-term debt are a reasonable estimate of fair value (Level 2).
 
Other borrowings – For short-term instruments, the carrying amount is a reasonable estimate of fair value. For long-term debt, rates currently available to the Company for debt with similar terms and remaining maturities are used to estimate the fair value (Level 2).
 
Subordinated debentures – The fair value of subordinated debentures is estimated using the rates that would be charged for subordinated debentures of similar remaining maturities (Level 2).
 
Accrued interest receivable/payable – The carrying amounts of accrued interest approximated fair value (Level 2).
 
Commitments to extend credit, letters of credit and lines of credit – The fair value of commitments is estimated using the fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the present creditworthiness of the counterparties. For fixed rate loan commitments, fair value also considers the difference between current levels of interest rates and the committed rates. The fair values of letters of credit and lines of credit are based on fees currently charged for similar agreements or on the estimated cost to terminate or otherwise settle the obligations with the counterparties at the reporting date.
 
The fair value of a financial instrument is the current amount that would be exchanged between willing parties, other than in a forced liquidation. Fair value is best determined based upon quoted market prices. However, in many instances, there are no quoted market prices for the Company’s various financial instruments. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using present value or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. Accordingly, the fair value estimates may not be realized in an immediate settlement of the instrument.
123




The estimated fair values, and related carrying amounts, of the Company’s financial instruments are as follows: 
  Carrying Fair Value Measurements
(In thousands) Amount Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
December 31, 2019  
  
  
  
  
Financial assets:  
  
  
  
  
Cash and cash equivalents $996,623
 $996,623
 $
 $
 $996,623
Interest bearing balances due from banks - time 4,554
 
 4,554
 
 4,554
Held-to-maturity securities 40,927
 
 41,855
 
 41,855
Mortgage loans held for sale 58,102
 
 
 58,102
 58,102
Interest receivable 62,707
 
 62,707
 
 62,707
Legacy loans, net 9,562,276
 
 
 9,517,472
 9,517,472
Loans acquired, net 4,795,184
 
 
 4,772,716
 4,772,716
           
Financial liabilities:  
  
  
  
  
Non-interest bearing transaction accounts 3,741,093
 
 3,741,093
 
 3,741,093
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits 9,090,878
 
 9,090,878
 
 9,090,878
Time deposits 3,276,969
 
 
 3,270,333
 3,270,333
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase 150,145
 
 150,145
 
 150,145
Other borrowings 1,297,599
 
 1,298,011
 
 1,298,011
Subordinated notes and debentures 388,260
 
 397,088
 
 397,088
Interest payable 12,898
 
 12,898
 
 12,898
           
December 31, 2018  
  
  
  
  
Financial assets:  
  
  
  
  
Cash and cash equivalents $833,458
 $833,458
 $
 $
 $833,458
Interest bearing balances due from banks - time 4,934
 
 4,934
 
 4,934
Held-to-maturity securities 289,194
 
 290,830
 
 290,830
Mortgage loans held for sale 26,799
 
 
 26,799
 26,799
Interest receivable 49,938
 
 49,938
 
 49,938
Legacy loans, net 8,373,789
 
 
 8,280,690
 8,280,690
Loans acquired, net 3,292,783
 
 
 3,256,174
 3,256,174
           
Financial liabilities:  
  
  
  
  
Non-interest bearing transaction accounts 2,672,405
 
 2,672,405
 
 2,672,405
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits 6,830,191
 
 6,830,191
 
 6,830,191
Time deposits 2,896,156
 
 
 2,872,342
 2,872,342
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase 95,792
 
 95,792
 
 95,792
Other borrowings 1,345,450
 
 1,342,868
 
 1,342,868
Subordinated debentures 353,950
 
 355,812
 
 355,812
Interest payable 9,897
 
 9,897
 
 9,897

 CarryingFair Value Measurements
(In thousands)AmountLevel 1Level 2Level 3Total
December 31, 2022     
Financial assets:     
Cash and cash equivalents$682,122 $682,122 $— $— $682,122 
Interest bearing balances due from banks - time795 — 795 — 795 
Held-to-maturity securities, net3,759,706 — 3,063,233 — 3,063,233 
Interest receivable102,892 — 102,892 — 102,892 
Loans, net15,945,169 — — 15,573,555 15,573,555 
Financial liabilities:     
Noninterest bearing transaction accounts6,016,651 — 6,016,651 — 6,016,651 
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits11,762,885 — 11,762,885 — 11,762,885 
Time deposits4,768,558 — — 4,696,473 4,696,473 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase160,403 — 160,403 — 160,403 
Other borrowings859,296 — 857,257 — 857,257 
Subordinated notes and debentures365,989 — 363,578 — 363,578 
Interest payable16,399 — 16,399 — 16,399 
December 31, 2021     
Financial assets:     
Cash and cash equivalents$1,650,653 $1,650,653 $— $— $1,650,653 
Interest bearing balances due from banks - time1,882 — 1,882 — 1,882 
Held-to-maturity securities, net1,529,221 — 1,517,378 — 1,517,378 
Interest receivable72,990 — 72,990 — 72,990 
Loans and other loans held for sale, net11,807,171 — — 11,922,735 11,922,735 
Financial liabilities:     
Noninterest bearing transaction accounts5,325,318 — 5,325,318 — 5,325,318 
Interest bearing transaction accounts and savings deposits11,588,770 — 11,588,770 — 11,588,770 
Time deposits2,452,460 — — 2,451,055 2,451,055 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase185,403 — 185,403 — 185,403 
Other borrowings1,337,973 — 1,393,711 — 1,393,711 
Subordinated notes and debentures384,131 — 394,464 — 394,464 
Interest payable6,759 — 6,759 — 6,759 
 
The fair value of commitments to extend credit, letters of credit and lines of credit is not presented since management believes the fair value to be insignificant.


129
124



NOTE 19: COMMITMENTS AND CREDIT RISK

The Company grants agri-business, commercial and residential loans to customers primarily throughout Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas, along with credit card loans to customers throughout the United States. Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since a portion of the commitments may expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. Each customer’s creditworthiness is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary, is based on management’s credit evaluation of the counterparty. Collateral held varies, but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property, plant and equipment, commercial real estate and residential real estate.
 
At December 31, 2019,2022, the Company had outstanding commitments to extend credit aggregating approximately $634,788,000$696.7 million and $3,991,931,000$5.64 billion for credit card commitments and other loan commitments, respectively. At December 31, 2018,2021, the Company had outstanding commitments to extend credit aggregating approximately $560,863,000$685.3 million and $3,455,471,000$3.41 billion for credit card commitments and other loan commitments, respectively.
 
As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company had outstanding commitments to originate fixed-rate mortgage loans of approximately $21.1 million and $108.5 million respectively. The decrease as compared to the prior year is due to the rising interest rate environment and softening market conditions throughout the current year. The commitments extend over varying periods of time with the majority being disbursed within a thirty-day period.

Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the Company to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Those guarantees are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements, including commercial paper, bond financing and similar transactions. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loans to customers. The Company had total outstanding letters of credit amounting to $71,074,000$44.4 million and $39,101,000$37.7 million at December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively, with terms ranging from 9 months to 15 years. At December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, the Company had 0no deferred revenue under standby letter of credit agreements.

The Company has purchased letters of credit from the FHLB as security for certain public deposits. The amount of the letters of credit was $265.7 million and $59.1 million at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and they expire in less than one year from issuance.
 
At December 31, 2019,2022, the Company did not have concentrations of 5% or more of the investment portfolio in bonds issued by a single municipality.

NOTE 20: NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
 
Cloud Computing ArrangementsReference Rate Reform – In August 2018,March 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-15,2020-04, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40)Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That is a Service ContractFacilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting (“ASU 2018-15”2020-04”), which provides relief for companies preparing for discontinuation of interest rates such as LIBOR. LIBOR is a benchmark interest rate referenced in a variety of agreements that are used by numerous entities. On March 5, 2021, the U.K. Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) announced that the majority of LIBOR rates will no longer be published after December 31, 2021, although a number of key settings will continue until June 2023, to support the rundown of legacy contracts only. As a result, LIBOR should be discontinued as a reference rate.

Other interest rates used globally could also be discontinued for similar reasons. ASU 2020-04 provides optional expedients and exceptions to contracts, hedging relationships and other transactions affected by reference rate reform. The main provisions for contract modifications include optional relief by allowing the modification as a continuation of the existing contract without additional analysis and other optional expedients regarding embedded features. Optional expedients for hedge accounting permits changes to critical terms of hedging relationships and to the designated benchmark interest rate in a fair value hedge and also provides relief for assessing hedge effectiveness for cash flow hedges. Companies are able to apply ASU 2020-04 immediately; however, the guidance will only be available for a limited time (generally through December 31, 2022). The Company formed a LIBOR Transition Team in 2020, has created standard LIBOR replacement language for new and modified loan notes, and is monitoring the remaining loans with LIBOR rates monthly to ensure progress in updating these loans with acceptable LIBOR replacement language or converting them to other interest rates. During 2021, the Company did not offer LIBOR-indexed rates on loans which it originated, although it did participate in some shared credit agreements originated by other banks subject to the
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Company’s determination that the LIBOR replacement language in the loan documents met the Company’s standards. Pursuant to the Joint Regulatory Statement on LIBOR transition issued in October 2021, the Company’s policy, as of January 1, 2022, is not to enter into any new LIBOR-based credit agreements and not extend, renew, or modify prior LIBOR credit agreements without requiring conversion of the agreements to other interest rates. The adoption of ASU 2020-04 has not had a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope (“ASU 2021-01”), which clarifies that certain optional expedients and exceptions in ASC 848 for contract modifications and hedge accounting apply to derivatives that are affected by the changes in the interest rates used for margining, discounting, or contract price alignment for derivative instruments that are being implemented as part of the market-wide transition to new reference rates (commonly referred to as the “discounting transition”). ASU 2021-01 also amends the expedients and exceptions in ASC 848 to capture the incremental consequences of the scope clarification and to tailor the existing guidance to derivative instruments affected by the discounting transition. ASU 2021-01 was effective upon issuance and generally can be applied through December 31, 2022. ASU 2021-01 did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

In December 2022, the FASB issued ASU No. 2022-06, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848 (“ASU 2022-06”). ASU 2022-06 defers the sunset date of Topic 848 from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2024, after which entities will no longer be permitted to apply the relief in Topic 848.

Leases - In July 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-05, Leases (Topic 842): Lessors-Certain Leases with Variable Lease Payments (“ASU 2021-05”), that amends lease classification requirements for lessors. In accordance with ASU 2021-05, lessors should classify and account for a lease that have variable lease payments that do not depend on a reference index rate as an operating lease if both of the definition offollowing criteria are met: i) the lease would have been classified as a hosting arrangementsales-type lease or a direct financing lease under the previous lease classification criteria and requires a customerii) sales-type or direct financing lease classification would result in a hosting arrangement thatDay 1 loss. ASU 2021-05 is a service contract to capitalize certain implementation costs as if the arrangement was an internal-use software project. The internal-use software guidance states that only qualifying costs incurred during the application development stage can be capitalized. The effective date isfor public business entities for fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2021, with early adoption permitted. Entities have the option to apply the guidance prospectively to all implementation costs incurred after the date of adoption or retrospectively in accordance with the applicable guidance. At the time of adoption, entities will be required to disclose the nature of its hosting arrangements that are service contracts and provide disclosures as if the deferred implementation costs were a separate, major depreciable asset class. The Company early adopted ASU 2018-15 in the first quarter 2019 and elected to apply the guidance prospectively to all software implementation costs incurred after the date of adoption. As of December 31, 2019, $3.8 million of applicable software implementation costs have been capitalized and have not had a material impact on our financial position or results of operations. 

Derivatives and Hedging: Targeted Improvements - In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities (“ASU 2017-12”), that changes both the designation and measurement guidance for qualifying hedging relationships and the presentation of hedge results in order to better align a company’s risk management activities and financial reporting for hedging relationships. In summary, this amendment 1) expands the types of transactions eligible for hedge accounting; 2) eliminates the separate measurement and presentation of hedge ineffectiveness; 3) simplifies the requirements around the assessment of hedge effectiveness; 4) provides companies more time to finalize hedge documentation; and 5) enhances presentation and disclosure requirements. The effective date was for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. All transition requirements and elections should be applied to existing hedging relationships on the date of adoption and the effects should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption. As part of this new guidance, entities are allowed to designate as the hedged item, an amount that is not expected to be affected by prepayments, defaults or other events affecting the timing and amount of cash flows in a closed portfolio of prepayable financial instruments (this is referred to as the “last-of-layer” method). Under


the last-of-layer method, entities are able to reclassify, only at the time of adoption, eligible callable debt securities from held-to-maturity to available-for-sale without tainting its intentions to hold future debt securities to maturity. The available-for-sale security must be reported at fair value and any unrealized gain or loss must be recorded as an adjustment to other comprehensive income upon adoption. The Company evaluated its held-to-maturity portfolio during the first quarter 2019 and identified certain municipal bonds with a fair value of $216.4 million that met the last-of-layer criteria under ASU 2017-12 and as a result, reclassified those to available-for-sale and recorded an unrealized gain of $2.5 million during the first quarter 2019.

Goodwill Impairment – In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-04, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment (“ASU 2017-04”), that eliminates Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test which required entities to compare the implied fair value of goodwill to its carrying amount. Under the amendments, the goodwill impairment will be measured as the excess of the reporting unit’s carrying amount over its fair value. An impairment charge should be recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value; however, the loss recognized should not exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. The effective date is for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted for interim or annual impairment tests beginning in 2017. The Company early adopted ASU 2017-04 during the second quarter 2019 to coincide with the Company’s formal impairment analysis. See Note 8, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, for additional information.

Leases - In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) (“ASU 2016-02”), that establishes the principles to report transparent and economically neutral information about the assets and liabilities that arise from leases. The new guidance results in a more consistent representation of the rights and obligations arising from leases by requiring lessees to recognize the lease asset and lease liabilities that arise from leases in the consolidated balance sheet and to disclose qualitative and quantitative information about lease transactions, such as information about variable lease payments and options to renew and terminate leases. The effective date was for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. ASU 2016-02 requires entities to adopt the new lease standard using a modified retrospective transition method, meaning an entity initially applies the new lease standard at the beginning of the earliest period presented in the financial statements. Due to complexities associated with using this method, in July 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-11, Leases (Topic 842): Targeted Improvements, to relieve entities of the requirement to present prior comparative years’ results when they adopt the new lease standard and giving entities the option to recognize the cumulative effect of applying the new standard as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. Adoption of ASU 2016-02 resulted in the recognition of right-of-use assets of $32.8 million and right-of-use liabilities of $32.8 million on the consolidated balance sheet with no material impact to the results of operations. The Company has elected to adopt the guidance using the optional transition method, which allows for a modified retrospective method of adoption with a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings without restating comparable periods. The Company also elected the relief package of practical expedients for which there is no requirement to reassess existence of leases, their classification, and initial direct costs as well as an exemption for short-term leases with a term of less than one year, whereby the Company did not recognize a lease liability or right-of-use asset on the consolidated balance sheet but instead will recognize lease payments as an expense over the lease term as appropriate. See Note 7, Right-of-Use Lease Assets and Lease Liabilities, for additional information related to the Company’s right-of-use lease obligations.

Stock Compensation: Scope of Modification Accounting - In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting (“ASU 2017-09”), that provides clarity and reduces both (1) diversity in practice and (2) cost and complexity when applying the guidance in Topic 718, to a change to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award. An entity may change the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award for many different reasons, and the nature and effect of the change can vary significantly. The guidance clarifies which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting and the guidance should be applied prospectively to an award modified on or after the adoption date. ASU 2017-09 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. Currently, the Company has not modified any existing awards nor has any plans to do so, therefore the adoption of ASU 2017-09 has not had a material effect on the Company’s results of operations, financial position or disclosures.


Statement of Cash Flows - In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (“ASU 2016-15”), designed to address the diversity in how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows, including debt prepayment or extinguishment costs, settlement of certain debt instruments, contingent consideration payments made after a business combination, proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims, and distributions received from equity method investees. The amendments also provide guidance on when an entity should separate or aggregate cash flows based on the predominance principle. The effective date is for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The new standard is required to be applied retrospectively, but may be applied prospectively if retrospective application would be impracticable. The adoption of ASU 2016-15No. 2021-05 did not have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations, financial position or disclosures since the amendment applies to the classification of cash flows. The adoption also did not have a material impact on the consolidated statement of cash flows.
Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities - In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall(Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“ASU 2016-01”), that makes changes primarily affecting the accounting for equity investments, financial liabilities under the fair value option, and the presentation and disclosure requirements for financial instruments. In addition, the FASB clarified guidance related to the valuation allowance assessment when recognizing deferred tax assets resulting from unrealized losses on available-for-sale debt securities. In February 2018, the FASB issued 2018-03 that clarified certain guidance and contained narrow scope amendments. The effective date is for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. ASU 2016-01 did not have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations or financial position. However, this new guidance requires the disclosed estimated fair value of the Company’s loan portfolio to be based on an exit price calculation, which considers liquidity, credit and nonperformance risk of its loans. The adoption of ASU 2016-01 did not have a material impact on the Company’s fair value disclosures.
Revenue Recognition
- In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (“ASU 2014-09”), that outlines a single comprehensive revenue recognition model for entities to follow in accounting for revenue from contracts with customers. The core principle of this revenue model is that an entity should recognize revenue for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled to receive for those goods or services. In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14, deferring the effective date to annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The guidance does not apply to revenue associated with financial instruments, including loans and securities that are accounted for under other US GAAP, which comprises a significant portion of the Company’s revenue stream. However, the updated guidance affects the revenue recognition pattern for certain revenue streams, including service charges on deposit accounts, gains/losses on sale of other real estate owned (“OREO”), and trust income. The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations, financial position or disclosures. See Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, for additional information.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Income Taxes – In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (“ASU 2019-12”), that removes certain exceptions for investments, intraperiod allocations and interim calculations, and adds guidance to reduce complexity in accounting for income taxes. ASU 2019-12 introduces the following new guidance: i) guidance to evaluate whether a step-up in tax basis of goodwill relates to a business combination in which book goodwill was recognized or a separate transaction and ii) a policy election to not allocate consolidated income taxes when a member of a consolidated tax return is not subject to income tax. Additionally, ASU 2019-12 changes the following current guidance: i) making an intraperiod allocation, if there is a loss in continuing operations and gains outside of continuing operations, ii) determining when a deferred tax liability is recognized after an investor in a foreign entity transitions to or from the equity method of accounting, iii) accounting for tax law changes and year-to-date losses in interim periods, and iv) determining how to apply the income tax guidance to franchise taxes that are partially based on income. ASU 2019-12 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020, with early2020. The adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating all of the amendments in ASU 2019-12 and hasdid not yet determinedhave a material impact on the impact of this new standard.Company’s operations, financial position or disclosures.


Fair Value Measurement Disclosures – In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework-Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”), that eliminates, amends and adds disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. These amendments are part of FASB’s disclosure review project and they are expected to reduce costs for preparers while providing more decision-useful information for financial statement users. The eliminated disclosure requirements include the 1) the amount of, and reasons for, transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; 2) the policy of timing of transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy; and 3) the valuation processes for Level 3 fair value measurements. Among other modifications, the amended disclosure requirements remove the term “at a minimum” from the phrase “an entity shall disclose at a minimum” to promote the appropriate exercise of discretion by entities and clarifies that the measurement uncertainty disclosure is to communicate information about the uncertainty in measurement as of the reporting date. Under the new disclosure requirements, entities must disclose the changes in unrealized gains or losses included in other comprehensive income for recurring Level 3 fair value measurements held at the end of the reporting period and the range and weighted average used to develop significant unobservable inputs for Level 3 fair value measurements. ASU 2018-13 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of ASU 2018-13 isdid not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s fair value disclosures.


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Credit Losses on Financial Instruments – In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (“ASU 2016-13”), which requires earlier measurement of credit losses, expands the range of information considered in determining expected credit losses and enhances disclosures. The main objective of ASU 2016-13 is to provide financial statement users with more decision-useful information about the expected credit losses on financial instruments and other commitments to extend credit held by a reporting entity at each reporting date. The amendments replace the incurred loss impairment methodology in current US GAAP with a methodology (the current expected credit losses, or “CECL”, methodology) that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates.

The CECL methodology utilizes a lifetime “expected credit loss” measurement objective for the recognition of credit losses for loans, held-to-maturity debt securities and other receivables measured at amortized cost at the time the financial asset is originated or acquired. The allowance for credit losses is adjusted each period for changes in expected lifetime credit losses. This methodology replaces the multiple existing impairment methods in current guidance, which generally require that a loss be incurred before it is recognized. Within the life cycle of a loan or other financial asset, this new guidance will generally result in the earlier recognition of the provision for credit losses and the related allowance for credit losses than current practice. For available-for-sale debt securities that the Company intends to hold and where fair value is less than cost, credit-related impairment, if any, will be recognized through an allowance for credit losses and adjusted each period for changes in credit risk.

The effective date for these amendments is for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. In preparation for implementation of ASU 2016-13, the Company formed a cross functional team that assessed its data and system needs and evaluated the potential impact of adopting the new guidance. The Company anticipated a significant change in the processes and procedures to calculate the loan losses, including changes in assumptions and estimates to consider expected credit losses over the life of the loan versus the currentprior accounting practice that utilizesutilized the incurred loss model.

On March 27, 2020, the CARES Act was signed in to law by the President of the United States and allowed the option to temporarily defer or suspend the adoption of ASU 2016-13. During the deferral, a registrant would continue to use the incurred loss model for the allowance for loan and lease losses and would be in accordance with US GAAP. The Company has not elected to temporarily defer the adoption of ASU 2016-13 and adopted the new standard as of January 1, 2020. Upon adoption, the Company recorded an additional allowance for credit losses on loans of approximately $151.4 million and an adjustment to the reserve for unfunded commitments recorded in other liabilities of $24.0 million. The Company also recorded an additional allowance for credit losses on investment securities of $742,000. The impact at adoption was reflected as an adjustment to beginning retained earnings, net of income taxes, in the amount of $128.1 million.

The significant impact to the Company’s allowance for credit losses at the date of adoption was driven by the substantial amount of loans acquired held by the Company. The Company had approximately one third of total loans categorized as acquired at the adoption date with very little reserve allocated to them due to the previous incurred loss impairment methodology. As such, the amount of the CECL adoption impact was greater on the Company when compared to a non-acquisitive bank.

In December 2018, the Federal Reserve, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and FDIC (collectively, the “agencies”) issued a final rule revising regulatory capital rules in anticipation of the adoption of ASU 2016-13 that providesprovided an option to phase in over a three year period on a straight line basis the day-one impact on earnings and tier one capital.Tier 1 capital (the “CECL Transition Provision”).

In March 2020 and in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the agencies issued a new regulatory capital rule revising the CECL Transition Provision to delay the estimated impact on regulatory capital stemming from the implementation of ASU 2016-13. The rule provides banking organizations that implement CECL before the end of 2020 the option to delay for two years an estimate of CECL’s effect on regulatory capital, followed by a three-year transition period (the “2020 CECL Transition Provision”). The Company elected to apply the 2020 CECL Transition Provision.


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Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Fair Value Hedging - In March 2022, the FASB issued ASU No. 2022-01, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Fair Value Hedging - Portfolio Layer Method (“ASU 2022-01”), which clarifies the guidance on fair value hedge accounting of interest rate risk for portfolios of financial assets. This ASU amends the guidance in ASU 2017-12 that, among other things, established the “last-of-layer” method for making the fair value hedge accounting for these portfolios more accessible. ASU 2022-01 renames that method the “portfolio layer” method and expands the scope of this guidance to allow entities to apply the portfolio layer method to portfolios of all financial assets, including both prepayable and nonprepayable financial assets. This scope expansion is consistent with the FASB’s efforts to simplify hedge accounting and allows entities to apply the same method to similar hedging strategies. ASU 2022-01 is effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2022, with early adoption permitted. The Company has evaluated the impact this standard will have on its results of operations, financial position or disclosures, and it is not expected to have a material impact.

Credit Losses on Financial Instruments - In March 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-02, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures (“ASU 2022-02”), which eliminates the accounting guidance on troubled debt restructurings (TDRs) for creditors in ASC 310-40 and amends the guidance on “vintage disclosures” to require disclosure of current-period gross write-offs by year of origination. The ASU also updates the requirements related to accounting for credit losses under ASC 326 and adds enhanced disclosures for creditors with respect to loan refinancings and restructurings made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. ASU 2022-02 is effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2022, with early adoption permitted. The Company is electing to apply the CECL transition provision. The impact will be reflected as an adjustment to beginning retained earnings, net of income taxes, at adoption.

Based on additional analysis performed, the Company has estimated that the allowance for credit losses will be approximately
1.40% to 1.50% of total loans upon adoption in the first quarter of 2020. This estimate is based upon the Company’s analysis of current conditions, assumptions and economic forecasts at this point in time.

The preliminary estimate is subject to change based on continuing review and challengecurrently completing its evaluation of the models, methodologiesimpact this standard will have on its results of operations, financial position and judgments as we work to finalize the CECL model. The impact at adoption is also influenced by the loan portfolio composition and quality at the adoption date, as well as, macroeconomic conditions and forecast at that time. The adoption of ASU 2016-13 in 2020 could also impact the Company’s ongoing earnings, perhaps materially.disclosures.

Implementation efforts for the adoption of CECL are near completion, including model development and validation, fulfillment of additional data needs for new disclosures and reporting requirements, and drafting of accounting policies. Model validations and user acceptance testing began in the last half of 2019, with loss forecast modeling taking place in the first half of 2019.


The Company has finalized the relevant assumptions and overall estimation methodology including the following:

Loan Segmentation - Loans with similar risk characteristics are aggregated into homogeneous segments for collective assessment.
Reasonable and Supportable Forecast - Economic variables that are correlated with the historical loss performance of the portfolio segments are forecast utilizing a blended macroeconomic scenario over a one-year forecast horizon for all portfolio segments.
Reversion to Historical Loss Experience - The Company has elected to utilize a one-year straight-line reversion to historical loss experience over the remaining contractual life, adjusted for prepayments.
Individual Assessment - Loans that no longer share similar risk characteristics are individually assessed for estimated credit losses over the remaining life of the loans.
Qualitative Adjustments - The Company has elected qualitative adjustments to provide consideration for factors that have not been fully accounted for in the quantitative modeling process.
Presently, the Company is not aware of any other changes to the Accounting Standards Codification that will have a material impact on the Company’s present or future financial position or results of operations.

NOTE 21: DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Company utilizes derivative instruments to manage exposure to various types of interest rate risk for itself and its customers within policy guidelines. Transactions should only be entered into with an associated underlying exposure. All derivative instruments are carried at fair value.

Derivative contracts involve the risk of dealing with institutional derivative counterparties and their ability to meet contractual terms. Institutional counterparties must have an investment grade credit rating and be approved by the Company’s asset/liability management committee. In arranging these products for its customers, the Company assumes additional credit risk from the customer and from the dealer counterparty with whom the transaction is undertaken. Credit risk exists due to the default credit risk created in the exchange of the payments over a period of time. Credit exposure on interest rate swaps is limited to the net favorable value and interest payments of all swaps with each counterparty. Access to collateral in the event of default is reasonably assured. Therefore, credit exposure may be reduced by the amount of collateral pledged by the counterparty.

Hedge Structures

The Company will seek to enter derivative structures that most effectively address the risk exposure and structural terms of the underlying position being hedged. The term and notional principal amount of a hedge transaction will not exceed the term or principal amount of the underlying exposure. In addition, the Company will use hedge indices which are the same as, or highly correlated to, the index or rate on the underlying exposure. Derivative credit exposure is monitored on an ongoing basis for each customer transaction and aggregate exposure to each counterparty is tracked. The Company has set a maximum outstanding notional contract amount at 10% of the Company’s assets.


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Fair Value Hedges

For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a fair value hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as well as the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged asset or liability attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in current earnings. The gain or loss on the derivative instrument is presented on the same income statement line item as the earnings effect of the hedged item. During the third quarter of 2021, the Company began utilizing interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges to mitigate the effect of changing interest rates on the fair values of fixed rate callable AFS securities. The hedging strategy converts the fixed interest rates to variable interest rates based on federal funds rates. The two year forward start date for these swaps will be effective beginning in the third quarter of 2023 and involve the payment of fixed interest rates with a weighted average of 1.21% in exchange for variable interest rates based on federal funds rates.

The following table summarizes the fair value hedges recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

December 31, 2022December 31, 2021
(In thousands)Balance Sheet LocationWeighted Average Pay RateReceive RateNotionalFair ValueNotionalFair Value
Derivative assetsOther assets1.21%Federal Funds$1,001,715 $104,833 $1,001,715 $10,524 

The following amounts were recorded on the balance sheet related to carrying amounts and cumulative basis adjustments for fair value hedges.
Carrying Amount of Hedged AssetsCumulative Amount of Fair Value Hedging Adjustment Included in the Carrying Amount of Hedged Assets
Line Item on the Balance Sheet (In thousands)2022202120222021
Investment securities - Available-for-sale$944,115 $1,050,188 $106,321 $10,588 

Customer Risk Management Interest Rate Swaps

The Company’s qualified loan customers have the opportunity to participate in its interest rate swap program for the purpose of managing interest rate risk on their variable rate loans with the Company. The Company enters into such agreements with customers, then offsetting agreements are executed between the Company and an approved dealer counterparty to minimize market risk from changes in interest rates. The counterparty contracts are identical to customer contracts in terms of notional amounts, interest rates, and maturity dates, except for a fixed pricing spread or fee paid to the Company by the dealer counterparty. These interest rate swaps carry varying degrees of credit, interest rate and market or liquidity risks. The fair value of these derivative instruments is recognized as either derivative assets or liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company has a limited number of swaps that are standalone without a similar agreement with the loan customer.



The Company has entered interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert the loan interest rate from floating rate based on LIBOR or Prime rate to a fixed rate for the customer. The Company has entered into offsetting agreements with dealer counterparties. The following table summarizes the fair values of loan derivative contracts recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.sheets for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.

 December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018
(In thousands)Notional Fair Value Notional Fair Value
Derivative assets$401,969
 $14,903
 $274,247
 $6,242
Derivative liabilities387,075
 12,650
 245,717
 5,283

20222021
(In thousands)NotionalFair ValueNotionalFair Value
Derivative assets$413,968 $34,490 $318,428 $15,328 
Derivative liabilities414,955 34,440 321,985 15,443 

Risk Participation Agreements

The Company has a limited number of Risk Participation Agreement swaps, that are associated with loan participations, where the Company is not the counterparty to the interest rate swaps that are associated with the risk participation sold. The interest rate swap mark to market only impacts the Company if the swap is in a liability position to the counterparty and the customer defaults on payments to the counterparty. The notional amount of these contingent agreements is $62.9$11.6 million as of December 31, 2019.2022.


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Energy Hedging

During 2019, theThe Company began providingprovides energy derivative services to qualifying, high quality oil and gas borrowers for hedging purposes. The Company serves as an intermediary on energy derivative products between the Company’s borrowers and dealers. The Company will only enter into back-to-back trades, thus maintaining a balanced book between the dealer and the borrower.

Energy hedging risk exposure to the Company’s customer increases as energy prices for crude oil and natural gas rise. As prices decrease, exposure to the exchange increases. These risks are mitigated by customer credit underwriting policies and establishing a predetermined hedge line for each borrower and by monitoring the exchange margin.

The outstanding notional value as of December 31, 20192022 for energy hedging Customer Sell to Company swaps were $20.7$2.6 million and the corresponding Company Sell to Dealer swaps were $20.7$2.6 million and the corresponding net fair value of the derivative asset and derivative liability was $709,000.$49,000. The outstanding notional value as of December 31, 2021 for energy hedging Customer Sell to Company swaps were $12.1 million and the corresponding Company Sell to Dealer swaps were $12.1 million and the corresponding net fair value of the derivative asset and derivative liability was $199,000.

NOTE 22: CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

TheIn the ordinary course of its operations, the Company and/orand its subsidiaries haveare parties to various unrelated legal proceedings incidental to the conduct of the Company’s business, including proceedings based on breach of contract claims, lender liability claims, and other ordinary-course claims, some of which seek substantial relief or damages.

On May 22, 2019, Danny Walkingstick and Whitnye Fort filed a putative class action complaint against Simmons Bank in the aggregate, areUnited States District Court for the Western District of Missouri. The operative complaint alleges that Simmons Bank improperly charges overdraft fees on transactions that did not expectedactually overdraw customers’ accounts by utilizing the checking account’s “available balance” to assess overdraft fees instead of the “ledger balance.” Plaintiffs’ claims include breach of contract and unjust enrichment, and they seek to represent a proposed class of all Simmons Bank checking account customers who were assessed an overdraft fee on a transaction that purportedly did not overdraw the account. Plaintiffs seek unspecified damages, costs, attorneys’ fees, pre- and post-judgment interest, and other relief as the Court deems proper for themselves and the putative class. Simmons Bank denies the allegations but entered into a settlement agreement and release with the plaintiffs on behalf of themselves and the proposed class to resolve this matter, which settlement received the court’s final approval in November 2022. The settlement did not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, consolidated results of operations, financial positioncondition, or cash flows.

On January 14, 2020, Susanne Pace filed a putative class action complaint in the Circuit Court of Boone County, Missouri against Landmark Bank, formerly a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Landrum Company, to which Simmons Bank is a successor by merger in connection with the Company’s acquisition of The Landrum Company, which closed in October 2019. The complaint alleges that Landmark Bank improperly charged overdraft fees where a transaction was initially authorized on sufficient funds but later settled negative due to intervening transactions. The complaint asserts a claim for breach of contract, which incorporates the implied duty of good faith and fair dealing. Plaintiff seeks to represent a proposed class of all Landmark Bank checking account customers from Missouri who were allegedly charged overdraft fees on transactions that did not overdraw their checking account. Plaintiff seeks unspecified actual, statutory, and punitive damages as well as costs, attorneys’ fees, prejudgment interest, an injunction, and other relief as the Court deems proper for herself and the putative class. Simmons Bank denies the allegations but entered into a settlement agreement and release with the plaintiffs on behalf of themselves and the proposed class to resolve this matter, which settlement received the court’s final approval in January 2023. The settlement did not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, consolidated results of operations, financial condition, or cash flows.

On May 13, 2021, Susanne Pace filed a second putative class action complaint in the circuit court of Boone County, Missouri against Landmark Bank, to which Simmons Bank is a successor by merger, which was removed to the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri, Central Division. The complaint alleged that Landmark Bank improperly charged multiple insufficient funds or overdraft fees when a merchant or other originator resubmits a rejected payment request. The complaint asserted claims for breach of contract, including breach of the Companycovenant of good faith and its subsidiaries.fair dealing. Plaintiff sought to represent a proposed class of all Landmark Bank checking account customers who were charged multiple insufficient funds or overdraft fees on resubmitted payment requests. Plaintiff sought unspecified damages, costs, attorney’s fees, pre- and post-judgment interest, an injunction, and other relief as the Court deems proper for herself and the purported class. Simmons Bank denies the allegations, and on January 11, 2022, the Court granted Simmons Bank’s motion to compel arbitration. The matter was resolved in September 2022 and did not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, consolidated results of operations, financial condition, or cash flows.
130


On June 29, 2020, Shunda Wilkins, Diann Graham, and David Watson filed a putative class action complaint against Simmons Bank in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas. The complaint alleges that Simmons Bank improperly charges multiple insufficient funds or overdraft fees when a merchant resubmits a rejected payment request. The complaint asserts claims for breach of contract and unjust enrichment. Plaintiffs seek to represent a proposed class of all Simmons Bank checking account customers who were charged multiple insufficient funds or overdraft fees on resubmitted payment requests. Plaintiffs seek unspecified damages, costs, attorney’s fees, pre-judgment interest, an injunction, and other relief as the Court deems proper for themselves and the purported class. Simmons Bank denies the allegations and is vigorously defending the matter. On February 9, 2023, the district court denied plaintiffs’ motion for class certification, granted Simmons Bank’s motion for summary judgment in part, and granted Simmons Bank’s motion to exclude testimony of plaintiffs’ expert. The lawsuit remains pending.


We establish reserves for legal proceedings when potential losses become probable and can be reasonably estimated. While the ultimate resolution (including amounts thereof) of any legal proceedings, including the Wilkins matter described above, cannot be determined at this time, based on information presently available and after consultation with legal counsel, management believes that the ultimate outcome in such proceedings, either individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, consolidated results of operations, financial condition, or cash flows. It is possible, however, that future developments could result in an unfavorable outcome for or resolution of any of these proceedings, which may be material to the Company’s results of operations for a given fiscal period.

NOTE 23: STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Simmons Bank, the Company’s subsidiary bank, is subject to legal limitations on dividends that can be paid to the parent company without prior approval of the applicable regulatory agencies. The approval of the Commissioner of the Arkansas State Bank Department is required if the total of all dividends declared by an Arkansas state bank in any calendar year exceeds seventy-five percent (75%) of the total of its net profits, as defined, for that year combined with seventy-five percent (75%) of its retained net profits of the preceding year. At December 31, 2019,2022, Simmons Bank had approximately $160.2$114.0 million available for payment of dividends to the Company, without prior regulatory approval. Past dividends are not necessarily indicative of amounts that may be paid, or available to be paid, in future periods.

The Company’s bank subsidiary bank is subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company’s financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Company and its bank subsidiary bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of their assets, liabilities and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The Company’s capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors.

EffectiveThe risk-based capital guidelines of the Federal Reserve Board and the Arkansas State Bank Department include the definitions for (1) a well-capitalized institution, (2) an adequately-capitalized institution, and (3) an undercapitalized institution. Under the Basel III Rules effective January 1, 2015, the Companycriteria for a well-capitalized institution are: a 5% “Tier l leverage capital” ratio, an 8% “Tier 1 risk-based capital” ratio, 10% “total risk-based capital” ratio; and the subsidiary bank became subject to new capital regulations (the “Basel III Capital Rules”) adopted by the Federal Reserve in July 2013 establishing a new comprehensive capital framework for U.S. Banks. The Basel III Capital Rules substantially revised the risk-based capital requirements applicable to bank holding companies and depository institutions compared to the previous U.S. risk-based capital rules. Full compliance with all of the final rule’s requirements was phased in over a multi-year schedule. The final rules included a new common6.5% “common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets (CET1) ratio of 4.5% and a common equity Tier 1 capital conservation buffer of 2.5% of risk-weighted assets.” ratio. CET1 generally consists of common stock; retained earnings; accumulated other comprehensive income and certain minority interests; all subject to applicable regulatory adjustments and deductions.

The Company and Simmons Bank must hold a capital conservation buffer was fully phasedof 2.5% composed of CET1 capital above its minimum risk-based capital requirements. Failure to meet this capital conservation buffer would result in additional limits on January 1, 2019.dividends, other distributions and discretionary bonuses.

Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Company to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the table below) of total, Tier 1 and common equity Tier 1 capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined) and of Tier 1 capital (as defined) to average assets (as defined). As of December 31, 2019,2022, the Company and its subsidiary bank met all capital adequacy requirements under the Basel III Capital Rules and exceeded the fully phased in capital conservation buffer.

As of the most recent notification from regulatory agencies, the subsidiary bankSimmons Bank was well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as well capitalized, the Company and its subsidiary bankthe Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based, common equity Tier 1 risk-based and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the table. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed the institutions’these categories.
131




The Company’s and the subsidiary banks’Bank’s actual capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table.

  Actual 
Minimum
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
 
To Be Well
Capitalized Under
Prompt Corrective
Action Provision
(In thousands) Amount Ratio (%) Amount Ratio (%) Amount Ratio (%)
December 31, 2019  
    
    
  
Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio            
Simmons First National Corporation $2,272,858
 13.7 $1,327,216
 8.0 N/A
  
Simmons Bank 1,852,880
 12.9 1,149,073
 8.0 1,436,341
 10.0
Landmark Bank 291,378
 13.9 167,700
 8.0 209,624
 10.0
Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio            
Simmons First National Corporation 1,807,954
 10.9 995,204
 6.0 N/A
  
Simmons Bank 1,777,602
 12.3 867,123
 6.0 1,156,164
 8.0
Landmark Bank 290,016
 13.8 126,094
 6.0 168,125
 8.0
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital Ratio            
Simmons First National Corporation 1,807,187
 10.9 746,086
 4.5 N/A
  
Simmons Bank 1,777,602
 12.3 650,342
 4.5 939,383
 6.5
Landmark Bank 270,016
 12.9 94,192
 4.5 136,055
 6.5
Tier 1 Leverage Ratio            
Simmons First National Corporation 1,807,954
 9.6 753,314
 4.0 N/A
  
Simmons Bank 1,777,602
 10.7 664,524
 4.0 830,655
 5.0
Landmark Bank 290,016
 8.8 131,825
 4.0 164,782
 5.0
             
December 31, 2018            
Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio            
Simmons First National Corporation $1,778,938
 13.3 $1,070,038
 8.0 N/A
  
Simmons Bank 1,532,864
 11.5 1,066,340
 8.0 1,332,925
 10.0
Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio            
Simmons First National Corporation 1,361,380
 10.2 800,812
 6.0 N/A
  
Simmons Bank 1,469,260
 11.0 801,415
 6.0 1,068,553
 8.0
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital Ratio            
Simmons First National Corporation 1,361,380
 10.2 600,609
 4.5 N/A
  
Simmons Bank 1,469,260
 11.0 601,061
 4.5 868,199
 6.5
Tier 1 Leverage Ratio            
Simmons First National Corporation 1,361,380
 8.8 618,809
 4.0 N/A
  
Simmons Bank 1,469,260
 9.5 618,636
 4.0 773,295
 5.0


 ActualMinimum
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
To Be Well
Capitalized Under
Prompt Corrective
Action Provision
(In thousands)AmountRatio (%)AmountRatio (%)AmountRatio (%)
December 31, 2022      
Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio
Simmons First National Corporation$2,948,490 14.2 $1,661,121 8.0 N/A
Simmons Bank2,743,625 13.3 1,650,301 8.0 2,062,876 10.0 
Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio
Simmons First National Corporation2,466,874 11.9 1,243,802 6.0 N/A
Simmons Bank2,628,002 12.7 1,241,576 6.0 1,655,434 8.0 
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital Ratio
Simmons First National Corporation2,466,874 11.9 932,852 4.5 N/A
Simmons Bank2,628,002 12.7 931,182 4.5 1,345,040 6.5 
Tier 1 Leverage Ratio
Simmons First National Corporation2,466,874 9.3 1,061,021 4.0 N/A
Simmons Bank2,628,002 10.0 1,051,201 4.0 1,314,001 5.0 
December 31, 2021
Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio
Simmons First National Corporation$2,603,142 16.7 $1,247,014 8.0 N/A
Simmons Bank2,389,704 15.4 1,241,405 8.0 1,551,756 10.0 
Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio
Simmons First National Corporation2,147,158 13.8 933,547 6.0 N/A
Simmons Bank2,317,855 15.0 927,142 6.0 1,236,189 8.0 
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital Ratio
Simmons First National Corporation2,147,158 13.8 700,160 4.5 N/A
Simmons Bank2,317,855 15.0 695,357 4.5 1,004,404 6.5 
Tier 1 Leverage Ratio
Simmons First National Corporation2,147,158 9.1 943,806 4.0 N/A
Simmons Bank2,317,855 9.8 946,063 4.0 1,182,579 5.0 


132



NOTE 24: CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)

Condensed Balance Sheets
December 31, 20192022 and 2018
(In thousands) 2019 2018
ASSETS  
  
Cash and cash equivalents $104,068
 $219,063
Investment securities 743
 2,848
Investments in wholly-owned subsidiaries 3,269,224
 2,368,870
Loans 657
 774
Intangible assets, net 133
 133
Premises and equipment 27,351
 5,804
Other assets 31,738
 29,974
TOTAL ASSETS $3,433,914
 $2,627,466
     
LIABILITIES    
Long-term debt $413,760
 $353,950
Other liabilities 31,230
 27,082
Total liabilities 444,990
 381,032
     
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY    
Preferred stock 767
 
Common stock 1,136
 923
Surplus 2,117,282
 1,597,944
Undivided profits 848,848
 674,941
Accumulated other comprehensive gain (loss):    
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes of $7,392 and ($9,686) at December 31, 2019 and 2018 respectively 20,891
 (27,374)
Total stockholders’ equity 2,988,924
 2,246,434
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY $3,433,914
 $2,627,466

2021
 

(In thousands)20222021
ASSETS  
Cash and cash equivalents$116,915 $175,711 
Investment securities6,109 2,932 
Investments in wholly-owned subsidiaries3,453,961 3,444,624 
Loans1,412 2,610 
Intangible assets, net133 133 
Premises and equipment22,083 23,861 
Other assets80,513 53,877 
TOTAL ASSETS$3,681,126 $3,703,748 
LIABILITIES
Long-term debt$386,798 $406,552 
Other liabilities24,966 48,355 
Total liabilities411,764 454,907 
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Preferred stock— — 
Common stock1,270 1,127 
Surplus2,530,066 2,164,989 
Undivided profits1,255,586 1,093,270 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Unrealized depreciation on available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes of $(183,124) and $(3,731) at December 31, 2022 and 2021 respectively(517,560)(10,545)
Total stockholders’ equity3,269,362 3,248,841 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY$3,681,126 $3,703,748 
133


Condensed Statements of Income
Years Ended December 31, 20192022, 20182021 and 20172020
 
(In thousands) 2019 2018 2017
INCOME  
  
  
Dividends from subsidiaries $67,893
 $145,980
 $69,107
Other income 13,658
 658
 4,111
Income 81,551
 146,638
 73,218
EXPENSE 40,594
 32,714
 32,234
Income before income taxes and equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries 40,957
 113,924
 40,984
Provision for income taxes (5,680) (10,732) (12,311)
       
Income before equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries 46,637
 124,656
 53,295
Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries 191,530
 91,057
 39,645
       
NET INCOME 238,167
 215,713
 92,940
Preferred stock dividends 339
 
 
       
NET INCOME AVAILABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS $237,828
 $215,713
 $92,940

(In thousands)202220212020
INCOME   
Dividends from subsidiaries$219,868 $227,310 $311,253 
Other income508 1,080 762 
Income220,376 228,390 312,015 
EXPENSE46,133 44,847 37,204 
Income before income taxes and equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries174,243 183,543 274,811 
Provision for income taxes(9,391)(11,314)(9,438)
Income before equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries183,634 194,857 284,249 
Equity in undistributed net income (loss) of subsidiaries72,778 76,299 (29,345)
NET INCOME256,412 271,156 254,904 
Preferred stock dividends— 47 52 
NET INCOME AVAILABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS$256,412 $271,109 $254,852 
 

Condensed Statements of Comprehensive Income
Years Ended December 31, 20192022, 20182021 and 20172020
 
(In thousands) 2019 2018 2017
NET INCOME $238,167
 $215,713
 $92,940
       
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)      
Equity in other comprehensive income (loss) of subsidiaries 48,265
 (10,110) 964
       
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME $286,432
 $205,603
 $93,904

(In thousands)202220212020
NET INCOME$256,412 $271,156 $254,904 
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Equity in other comprehensive income (loss) of subsidiaries(507,015)(70,271)38,835 
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)$(250,603)$200,885 $293,739 
 
 

134


Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 20192022, 20182021 and 20172020

(In thousands) 2019 2018 2017
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES  
  
  
       
Net income $238,167
 $215,713
 $92,940
Items not requiring (providing) cash      
Stock-based compensation expense 12,921
 9,725
 10,681
Depreciation and amortization 1,637
 880
 1,183
Deferred income taxes (3,632) 26
 1,190
Equity in undistributed net income of bank subsidiaries (191,530) (91,057) (39,645)
       
Changes in:      
Other assets 3,299
 1,524
 8,585
Other liabilities (2,648) 17,340
 (6,769)
Net cash provided by operating activities 58,214
 154,151
 68,165
       
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES      
       
Net originations of loans 117
 219
 90
Net (purchases of) proceeds from premises and equipment (23,184) 3,342
 (18)
Repayment of (advances to) subsidiaries 
 2,667
 (15,000)
Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities 2,544
 152
 42
Purchases of available-for-sale securities (439) (211) (2,752)
Cash paid in business combinations (36,811) 
 (100,468)
Other, net 29
 (1,903) 
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities (57,744) 4,266
 (118,106)
       
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES      
       
Proceeds from issuance of subordinated notes 
 326,355
 
Issuance (repayment) of long-term debt, net 2,000
 (231,352) 8,014
(Cancellation) issuance of common stock, net (1,077) 2,188
 2,878
Stock repurchases (10,128) 
��
Dividends paid on preferred stock (339) 
 
Dividends paid on common stock (63,921) (55,646) (35,116)
Preferred stock retirement (42,000) 
 
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (115,465) 41,545
 (24,224)
       
(DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (114,995) 199,962
 (74,165)
       
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR 219,063
 19,101
 93,266
       
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR $104,068
 $219,063
 $19,101



(In thousands)202220212020
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES   
Net income$256,412 $271,156 $254,904 
Items not requiring (providing) cash
Stock-based compensation expense15,317 15,868 13,197 
Depreciation and amortization1,981 1,805 1,796 
Deferred income taxes(652)3,347 1,583 
Equity in undistributed net income (loss) of bank subsidiaries(72,778)(76,299)29,345 
Changes in:
Other assets(26,775)(2,099)(27,056)
Other liabilities(28,745)11,109 7,790 
Net cash provided by operating activities144,760 224,887 281,559 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Net collections (originations) of loans1,198 (2,139)186 
Net (purchases of) proceeds from premises and equipment(21)(83)(7)
(Advances to) repayment for subsidiaries— — (15,363)
Cash acquired (paid) in business combinations60,126 (6,818)— 
Other, net1,688 185 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities62,991 (9,038)(14,999)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
(Repayment) issuance of long-term debt, net(57,436)(1,563)(7,442)
(Cancellation) issuance of common stock, net(3,882)1,460 (3,131)
Stock repurchases(111,133)(132,459)(113,327)
Dividends paid on preferred stock— (47)(52)
Dividends paid on common stock(94,096)(78,845)(74,593)
Preferred stock retirement— (767)— 
Net cash used in financing activities(266,547)(212,221)(198,545)
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS(58,796)3,628 68,015 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR175,711 172,083 104,068 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR$116,915 $175,711 $172,083 
140
135



ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
 
None.
 
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and Rule 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) was carried out as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief FinancialAccounting Officer have concluded that the Company’s current disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report.
 
(b) Changes in Internal Controls. Our management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, regularly review our disclosure controls and procedures and make changes intended to ensure the quality of our financial reporting. There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the Company’s fourth quarter of its 20192022 fiscal year that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

(c) Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Management’s report on internal control over financial reporting, as well as the attestationaudit report of BKD,FORVIS, LLP on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting are included in Item 8, Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and are incorporated herein by this reference.
 
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
 
None.
 
ITEM 9C. DISCLOSURE REGARDING FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS THAT PREVENT INSPECTIONS

Not applicable.

136


PART III
 
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
 
IncorporatedThis information is incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of StockholdersShareholders to be held April 23, 202018, 2023, to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A on or about March 17, 2020.within 120 days of the Company’s fiscal year-end (the “Proxy Statement”) under the captions “Proposal 2 - Election of Directors,” “Audit Committee,” “Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports,” “Code of Ethics,” “ Executive Officers,” and the last two paragraphs under the caption “Transactions with Related Persons.”

The table below also sets forth the names and principal occupations of the Company’s executive officers.

NamePrincipal Occupation
George A. Makris, Jr.Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board*
Robert A. FehlmanChief Executive Officer*
James M. BrogdonPresident and Chief Financial Officer*
Stephen C. MassanelliSenior Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer*
Matthew S. ReddinExecutive Vice President and Chief Banking Officer, Simmons Bank
George A. Makris IIIExecutive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary*
Jennifer B. ComptonExecutive Vice President and Chief People Officer*
David W. GarnerExecutive Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer*
Ann MadeaExecutive Vice President and Chief Information Officer*
Chad RawlsExecutive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer, Simmons Bank
Brad YaneyExecutive Vice President of Credit Risk Management, Simmons Bank
_________________
* The officer holds the positions at both the Company and Simmons Bank.

The table below also sets forth the names, principal occupations, and employers of the Company’s directors.

NamePrincipal Occupation and Employer
Dean BassRetired Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Spirit of Texas Bancshares, Inc. and Spirit of Texas Bank, SSB
Jay BurchfieldRetired Chairman, Ozark Trust and Investment Corp.
Marty D. CasteelRetired Senior Executive Vice President of the Company; Retired Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Simmons Bank
William E. Clark, IIChairman and Chief Executive Officer, Clark Contractors, LLC
Steven A. CosséRetired President and Chief Executive Officer, Murphy Oil Corporation
Mark C. DoramusChief Financial Officer, Stephens Inc.
Edward DrillingRetired Senior Vice President of External and Regulatory Affairs, AT&T Inc.
Eugene HuntAttorney, Hunt Law Firm
Jerry HunterSenior Counsel, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP
Susan LaniganRetired Executive Vice President and General Counsel, Chico’s FAS, Inc.
George A. Makris, Jr.Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board, the Company and Simmons Bank
W. Scott McGeorgeChairman, Pine Bluff Sand and Gravel Company
Tom PurvisPartner, L2L Development Advisors, LLC
Robert L. ShoptawRetired Executive, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Julie StackhouseRetired Executive Vice President, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis
Russell W. TeubnerDistinguished Engineer, Broadcom, Inc.
Mindy WestExecutive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, Murphy USA Inc

137


ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
 
IncorporatedThis information is incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive proxy statement forProxy Statement under the Annual Meetingcaptions “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation,” “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” “Relationship of StockholdersCompensation Policies and Practices to be held Risk Management,” “Summary of Compensation and Other Payments to the Named Executive Officers,” “2022 Pay Ratio Disclosure,” “Director Compensation,” and “2022 Director Compensation.”April 23, 2020, to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A on or about March 17, 2020.
 
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
 
IncorporatedThis information is incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive proxy statement forProxy Statement under the Annual Meetingcaptions “Security Ownership of Stockholders to be held April 23, 2020, to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A on or about March 17, 2020.Certain Beneficial Owners” and “Equity Compensation Plan Information.”
 
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
 
IncorporatedThis information is incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive proxy statementProxy Statement under the captions “Transactions with Related Persons,” “Policies and Procedures for Approval of Related Party Transactions,” and the Annual Meetingfirst two paragraphs under the caption “Proposal 2 – Election of Stockholders to be held April 23, 2020, to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A on or about March 17, 2020.Directors.”
 
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
 
IncorporatedThis information is incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive proxy statement forProxy Statement under the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held April 23, 2020, to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A on or about March 17, 2020.caption “Principal Accountant Fees” and the fourth paragraph under the caption “Audit Committee.”


141



PART IV
 
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
 
(a) 1 and 2. Financial Statements and any Financial Statement Schedules
 
The financial statements and financial statement schedules listed in the accompanying index to the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules are filed as part of this report.
 
(b) Listing of Exhibits 
Exhibit No.Description
Stock Purchase Agreement by and between Simmons First National Corporation and Rogers Bancshares, Inc., dated as of September 10, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 17, 2013 (File No. 000-06253)).
ExhibitAgreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of March 24, 2014, by and between Simmons First National Corporation and Delta Trust & Banking Corporation (incorporated by reference to Annex A to the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus filed by Simmons First National Corporation on July 23, 2014 (File No.Description 000-06253)).
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of May 6, 2014, by and between Simmons First National Corporation and Community First Bancshares, Inc., as amended on September 11, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Annex A to the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus filed by Simmons First National Corporation on October 8, 2014 (File No. 000-06253)).
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of May 27, 2014, by and between Simmons First National Corporation and Liberty Bancshares, Inc., as amended on September 11, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Annex B to the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus filed by Simmons First National Corporation on October 8, 2014 (File No. 000-06253)).
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 28, 2015, by and between Simmons First National Corporation and Ozark Trust & Investment Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K for April 29, 2015 (File No. 000-06253)).
138


Exhibit No.Description
Stock Purchase Agreement by and among Citizens National Bank, Citizens National Bancorp, Inc. and Simmons First National Corporation, dated as of May 18, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K for May 18, 2016 (File No. 000-06253)).
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of November 17, 2016, by and between Simmons First National Corporation and Hardeman County Investment Company, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K for November 17, 2016 (File No. 000-06253)).
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of December 14, 2016, by and between Simmons First National Corporation and Southwest Bancorp, Inc., as amended on July 19, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.11 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarterquarter ended June 30, 2017 (File No. 000-06253)).
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of January 23, 2017, by and between Simmons First National Corporation and First Texas, BHC, Inc., as amended on July 19, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.12 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarterquarter ended June 30, 2017 (File No. 000-06253)).
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of November 13, 2018, by and between Simmons First National Corporation and Reliance Bancshares, Inc., as amended on February 11, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Annex A to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus filed pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3) by Simmons First National Corporation forfiled on March 4, 2019 (File No. 333-229378)).
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of July 30, 2019, by and between Simmons First National Corporation and The Landrum Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’sCorporation Current Report on Form 8-K forfiled on July 30,31, 2019 (File No. 000-6253)).
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 4, 2021, by and among Simmons First National Corporation, Simmons Bank and Landmark Community Bank (incorporated by reference to Annex A to the Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed under the Securities Act of 1933 by Simmons First National Corporation on July 21, 2021 (File No. 333-258059)).
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 4, 2021, by and between Simmons First National Corporation and Triumph Bancshares, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Annex B to the Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed under the Securities Act of 1933 by Simmons First National Corporation on July 21, 2021 (File No. 333-258059)).
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of November 18, 2021, by and between Simmons First National Corporation and Spirit of Texas Bancshares, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Annex A to the Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed under the Securities Act of 1933 by Simmons First National Corporation on January 18, 2022 (File No. 333-261842)).
Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Simmons First National Corporation, as amended on October 29, 2019July 14, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed under the Securities Act of 1933 by Simmons First National Corporation on July 21, 2021 (File No. 333-258059)).
Articles of Amendment to the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Simmons First National Corporation, dated August 3, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2022 (File No. 000-06253)).
Amended and Restated By-Laws of Simmons First National Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 1, 2019February 18, 2022 (File No. 000-06253)).

As Amended By-Laws of Simmons First National Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-233559) filed by Simmons First National Corporation on August 30, 2019 (File No. 000-06253)).


Exhibit No.Description
4.1
Instruments defining the rights of security holders, including indentures. Simmons First National Corporation hereby agrees to furnish copies of instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission upon request. No issuance of debt exceeds ten percent of the total assets of the Corporation and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.

Description of Registrant’s Securities.*
139


Exhibit No.Description
Second Amended and Restated Simmons First National Corporation 2015 Incentive Plan as amended (incorporated by reference to Simmons’ definitive proxy statementExhibit 10.1 to Amendment No. 1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Schedule 14AForm 8-K filed on March 14, 2017April 7, 2020 (File No. 000-06253)).

^
Form of Associate Restricted Stock Unit Award Certificate and Terms and Conditions (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Form of Associate Restricted Stock Unit Award Certificate and Terms and Conditions (2022) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Form of Associate Performance Share Unit Award Certificate and Terms and Conditions (2020) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Form of Associate Performance Share Unit Award Certificate and Terms and Conditions (2021) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Form of Associate Performance Share Unit Award Certificate and Terms and Conditions (2022) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Form of Associate Cash Award Certificate and Terms and Conditions (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Form of Associate Cash Award Certificate and Terms and Conditions (2022) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Form of Director Restricted Stock Unit Award Certificate and Terms and Conditions (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Form of Director Restricted Stock Unit Award Certificate and Terms and Conditions (2022) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Deferred Compensation Agreement for Marty D. Casteel dated January 22, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Deferred Compensation Agreement for George A. Makris, Jr. dated January 2, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K forfiled on January 2,7, 2013 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Amendment to Deferred Compensation Agreement for George A. Makris, Jr. dated January 25, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Yearyear ended December 31, 2017 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Agreement for Robert A. Fehlman effective February 27, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.25 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Yearyear ended December 31, 2016 (File No. 000-06253)).^
First Amended and Restated Executive Change in Control Severance Agreement for George A. Makris, Jr. dated March 26, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 1, 2021 (File No. 000-06253)).^
140


Exhibit No.Description
First Amended and Restated Executive Change in Control Severance Agreement for Stephen C. Massanelli dated March 26, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 1, 2021 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Deferred Compensation Agreement for Marty D. Casteel dated January 25, 2010 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 29, 2010 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Amended and Restated Executive Severance Agreement for Robert A. Fehlman dated March 1, 2006 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2006 (File No. 000-06253)).^
First Amendment to Amended and Restated Executive Severance Agreement for Robert A. Fehlman dated March, 1, 2006. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Second Amendment to Amended and Restated Executive Severance Agreement for Robert A. Fehlman dated March 1, 2006. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Deferred Compensation Agreement for Jennifer B. Compton dated February 28, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 (File No. 000-06235)).^
First Amendment to Deferred Compensation Agreement for Jennifer B. Compton dated July 27, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2022 (File No. 000-06235)).^
First Amended and Restated Executive Change in Control Severance Agreement for Jennifer B. Compton dated March 26, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 (File No. 000-06253)).^
First Amended and Restated Executive Change in Control Severance Agreement for David Garner dated March 26, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 (File No. 000-06253)).^
First Amended and Restated Executive Change in Control Severance Agreement for George A. Makris III dated March 26, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 (File No. 000-06253)).^
First Amended and Restated Executive Change in Control Severance Agreement for Matthew S. Reddin dated March 26, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Deferred Compensation Agreement for George A. Makris III dated March 11, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 (File No. 000-06253)).^
First Amendment to Deferred Compensation Agreement for George A. Makris III dated July 27, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2022 (File No. 000-06235)).^
Deferred Compensation Agreement for Matthew Reddin dated March 7, 2017. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 (File No. 000-06253)).^
First Amendment to Deferred Compensation Agreement for Matthew Reddin dated August 4, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2022 (File No. 000-06235)).^
141


Exhibit No.Description
Deferred Compensation Agreement for David Garner dated January 2, 2020 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2020 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Form of Indemnification Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Indemnification Agreement for James M. Brogdon dated July 30, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 11, 2016on August 5, 2021 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Executive Change in Control Severance Agreement for Stephen C. MassanelliJames M. Brogdon dated July 30, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 11, 2016on August 5, 2021 (File No. 000-06253)).^
Deferred Compensation Agreement adopted January 25, 2010, between Simmons First National Corporation and Marty D. Casteel (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K for January 25, 2010 (File No. 000-06253)).
Change in Control Agreement for Robert A. Fehlman (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 29, 2010 (File No. 000-06253)).
Change in Control Agreement for Marty D. CasteelJames M. Brogdon dated July 30, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 29, 2010on August 5, 2021 (File No. 000-06253)).
Deferred Compensation Agreement for Jena Compton dated February 28, 2017.*
Executive Severance Agreement for Jena Compton dated February 5, 2016.*
Executive Severance Agreement for Paul Kanneman dated January 2, 2017.*
Amended Executive Severance Agreement for David Garner dated April 30, 2014.*
Executive Severance Agreement for Patrick Burrow dated December 29, 2014.*
Branch Purchase and Assumption Agreement, dated as of December 20, 2019, by and between Spirit of Texas Bank, SSB and Simmons Bank (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 23, 2019 (File No. 000-06253)).


Exhibit No.DescriptionSimmons First National Corporation Directors Deferred Compensation Plan (Amended and Restated Effective December 31, 2022).*^
Amended and Restated Simmons First National Corporation Code of Ethics (as amended and restated on July 23, 2020) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 14.1 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 19, 201828, 2020 (File No. 000-06253)).

Finance Group Code of Ethics, dated July 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 14 to Simmons First National Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Yearyear ended December 31, 2003 (File No. 000-06253)).
Subsidiaries of the Registrant.*
Consent of BKD,FORVIS, LLP.*
Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) Certification – George A. Makris, Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.*
Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) Certification – Robert A. Fehlman, SeniorChief Executive ViceOfficer.*
Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) Certification – James M. Brogdon, President and Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer.Officer.*
Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) Certification – David W. Garner, Executive Vice President Executive Director of Finance and Accounting and Chief Accounting Officer.*
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Sections 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 – George A. Makris, Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.*
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Sections 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 – Robert A. Fehlman, SeniorChief Executive ViceOfficer.*
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Sections 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 – James M. Brogdon, President and Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer.Officer.*
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Sections 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 – David W. Garner, Executive Vice President Executive Director of Finance and Accounting and Chief Accounting Officer.*
101.INSXBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document. * / **
101.SCHInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema.** / **
101.CALInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase.** / **
101.DEFInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase.** / **
101.LABInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase. * / **
142


101.PREExhibit No.Description
101.PREInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase.** / **
104Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101). **

*Filed herewith
**
**Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, these interactive data files are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, are deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise are not subject to liability under those sections.
^Management contract or a compensatory plan or arrangement.

ITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY

None.

143

144




SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
  
/s/ Patrick A. BurrowJames M. BrogdonFebruary 27, 20202023
Patrick A. Burrow, SecretaryJames M. Brogdon, President and Chief Financial Officer
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated on or about February 27, 2020.2023.
 
SignatureTitle
/s/ George A. Makris, Jr.Executive Chairman and Director
George A. Makris, Jr.
SignatureTitle
/s/ George A. Makris, Jr.Chairman, Chief Executive Officer
George A. Makris, Jr.and Director (Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Robert A. FehlmanSeniorChief Executive Vice President,Officer
Robert A. Fehlman(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ James M. BrogdonPresident and Chief Financial Officer Chief Operating Officer and
James M. BrogdonTreasurer (Principal(Principal Financial Officer)
/s/ David W. GarnerExecutive Vice President Executive Director of Finance and
David W. Garnerand Accounting and Chief Accounting Officer
David W. Garner(Principal Accounting Officer)
/s/ Jay D. BurchfieldDean BassDirector
Jay D. BurchfieldDean Bass
/s/ Marty D. CasteelDirector
Marty D. Casteel
/s/ William E. Clark IIDirector
William E. Clark II
Director
Steven A. Cossé
/s/ Mark C. DoramusDirector
Mark C. Doramus
/s/ Edward DrillingDirector
Edward Drilling
/s/ Eugene HuntDirector
Eugene Hunt
/s/ Jerry M. HunterDirector
Jerry M. Hunter
/s/ Susan S. LaniganDirector
Susan S. Lanigan


/s/ Jay BurchfieldDirector
Jay BurchfieldDirector
/s/ Marty D. CasteelDirector
Marty D. Casteel
/s/ William E. Clark, IIDirector
William E. Clark, II
/s/ Steven A. CosséDirector
Steven A. Cossé
/s/ Mark C. DoramusDirector
Mark C. Doramus
/s/ Edward DrillingDirector
Edward Drilling
/s/ Eugene HuntDirector
Eugene Hunt
144


/s/ Jerry M. HunterDirector
Jerry M. Hunter
/s/ Susan LaniganDirector
Susan Lanigan
/s/ W. Scott McGeorgeDirector
W. Scott McGeorge
/s/ Tom PurvisDirector
Tom Purvis
/s/ Robert L. ShoptawDirector
Robert L. Shoptaw
/s/ Julie StackhouseDirector
Julie Stackhouse
/s/ Russell W. TeubnerDirector
Russell W. Teubner
/s/ Malynda K.Mindy WestDirector
Malynda K.Mindy West


146145